The UFC’s first ever show in the world famous Madison Square Garden in Manhattan, New York just received a mouthwatering welterweight clash. UFC president Dana White confirmed to Cleveland sports radio host Anthony Lima that Donald Cerrone will take on recently dethroned champion Robbie Lawler at UFC 205 on November 12th.
Cerrone (31-7, 1 NC) is a perfect 3-0 at welterweight, having chosen to move up to the weight class after losing by TKO to Rafael dos Anjos for what was then RDA’s lightweight strap. “Cowboy” submitted Alex Oliveira in February, became the first man to finish Patrick Cote with strikes in June, then became the first man to finish Rick Story with strikes in August.
Lawler (27-11, 1 NC) lost his welterweight title by 1st round KO to Tyron Woodley in the UFC 201 main event. It marked only the 2nd time that he’d ever been KO’d. “Ruthless” completed his incredible career turnaround by winning the belt in December 2014 with a split decision nod vs. Johny Hendricks. He would go on to defend his title successfully in dramatic fashion against Rory MacDonald at UFC 189, then controversially edge out Carlos Condit at UFC 195.
Also on tap for UFC 205 is a lightweight matchup between Al Iaquinta and Thiago Alves. There are also murmurs that Chris Weidman will fight Yoel Romero on this card, but nothing is set in stone just yet. Also not confirmed but previously reported, Tim Kennedy is expected to welcome Rashad Evans to the middleweight division.
Cerrone (31-7, 1 NC) is a perfect 3-0 at welterweight, having chosen to move up to the weight class after losing by TKO to Rafael dos Anjos for what was then RDA’s lightweight strap. “Cowboy” submitted Alex Oliveira in February, became the first man to finish Patrick Cote with strikes in June, then became the first man to finish Rick Story with strikes in August.
Lawler (27-11, 1 NC) lost his welterweight title by 1st round KO to Tyron Woodley in the UFC 201 main event. It marked only the 2nd time that he’d ever been KO’d. “Ruthless” completed his incredible career turnaround by winning the belt in December 2014 with a split decision nod vs. Johny Hendricks. He would go on to defend his title successfully in dramatic fashion against Rory MacDonald at UFC 189, then controversially edge out Carlos Condit at UFC 195.
Also on tap for UFC 205 is a lightweight matchup between Al Iaquinta and Thiago Alves. There are also murmurs that Chris Weidman will fight Yoel Romero on this card, but nothing is set in stone just yet. Also not confirmed but previously reported, Tim Kennedy is expected to welcome Rashad Evans to the middleweight division.
