Jan Blachowicz vs Aleksandar Rakic is expected to headline a UFC Vegas card in March.
The bout — first reported by ESPN on Wednesday afternoon — will pit the former champion, and top-ranked Blachowicz (28-9) against the third-ranked Rakic (14-2).
The booking seemed a strong possibility after Blachowicz appeared as guest on popular podcast The MMA Hour, and mentioned that he would be open to the idea of a fight with the 29-year-old Austrian.
Jan Blachowicz vs Aleksandar Rakic expected to headline UFC Vegas card in March
“It’s a good fight,” Blachowicz said about the possible matchup. “He’s a strong, real fighter. All fighters in the UFC, top 10, top five, they are amazing fighters, and it’s a pleasure for me to fight against all of them. Rakic is good for the next fight but we will see.”
ESPN added that bout aggreements have not yet been officially signed, however, both sides have verbally agreed to the matchup of two of the very best light heavyweights in the sport.
The fight would be Blachowicz’s return to the Octagon after losing his championship to fellow ageless wonder Glover Teixeira in October. The Brazilian submitted the wiedler of “Polish Power” to become the oldest first time champion in UFC history, at 42-year-old. It was Blachowicz’s second title defense after beating Dominick Reyes for the vacant title at UFC 253 in September of 2020.
Over seven appearances in the Octagon, “Rocket” has only lost once. That being a setback to former title challenger Volkan Oezdemir two years ago. During his time on the UFC roster Rakic has scored wins over division stars like Jimi Manuwa, Anthony Smith, and most recently Thiago Santos in March.
Who do you think is the last man standing in Blachowicz vs Rakic?
Join the discussion on this topic…