The UFC will host their first ever event in Mexico on November 15th and yesterday prior to the first episode of TUF: Mexico on UFC Fight Pass, the promotion unveiled the full five-fight main card that’ll feature on pay-per-view.
Headlining the show will be UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez who takes on his fellow TUF Mexico coach Fabricio Werdum.
Velasquez has defended his belt twice so far, but has spent the past year out of action due to shoulder surgery, while Werdum earned his title shot with a convincing win over Travis Browne in April, his fourth victory in a row since rejoining the UFC from Strikeforce in 2012.
Like Velasquez, former TUF champion Kelvin Gastelum’s parents are both Mexican which has helped him secure a co-main event spot at UFC 180, although the fact that he’s now four fights unbeaten in the UFC undoubtedly also helped.
He’s facing a big step up in competition though as he’s been lined up to face current No.8 ranked contender Jake Ellenberger who’s experienced a slump in form recently with back-to-back losses, but on his day he’s still an extremely tough opponent.
Having Mexican heritage, wild horses couldn’t have dragged Diego Sanchez away from a spot on this historic event in Mexico City and he’s been lined up to face TUF: Smashes winner Norman Parke who’s unbeaten in his five UFC fights to date.
Top 10 featherweight contenders will also throw down on PPV with former No.1 contender Ricardo Lamas (No.4) booked to fight Dennis Bermudez (No.7).
Rounding off the main card will be the only fighter booked so far who was actually born in Mexico, Erik Perez who’ll look to shake off a defeat last time out when he goes up against Marcus Brimage.
Meanwhile, the prelims for the event are expected to showcase the two finales from the TUF: Mexico season.
UFC 180 Main Card:
Cain Velasquez vs. Fabricio Werdum
Kelvin Gastelum vs. Jake Ellenberger
Diego Sanchez vs. Norman Parke
Ricardo Lamas vs. Dennis Bermudez
Erik Perez vs. Marcus Brimage
