Steve Cantwell vs Razak Al-Hussan UFC Fight Night 16 bout in the works

When Al-Turk falls through it’s time to call on Al-Hussan.

After all … the troops from nearby Fort Bragg need a villain to root against at UFC Fight Night 16: "Fight for the Troops" at Crown Coliseum in Fayetteville, N.C., on December 10, right?

Perhaps it’s just coincidence or clever marketing, but MMAmania.com has confirmed that Razak Al-Hussan (5-0) -- who fights out of Iowa -- will likely replace the injured Brian Stann and take on WEC Light Heavyweight Champion Steve Cantwell (6-1) in a 205-pound bout.

Cage Rage veteran Mustafa Al-Turk — who fights out of the famous London Shoot gym in the United Kingdom — was initially booked to fight Cain Velasquez on the card before the American Kickboxing Academy star was forced to withdraw from the heavyweight bought because of a knee injury.

Al-Hussan is an undefeated fighter who has enjoyed success primarily in smaller shows throughout the Midwest since his professional career began just last year. He has finished four of five fights. This appearance will mark his Octagon debut.

Cantwell is riding a three-fight win streak after suffering the first loss of his career to Stann back in early 2007. He has stopped all three opponents on his current run. In fact, Cantwell has never been the distance in seven professional mixed martial arts bouts win or lose.

Even though Josh Koscheck recently accepted a fight against Thiago Alves at UFC 90: "Silva vs. Cote" on October 25 on less than two weeks notice, he still intends to headline "Fight for the Troops" against Yoshiyuki Yoshida.

If he is injured in the bout and is not medically cleared then obviously a replacement will need to be identified to fight "Zenko."

To check out the latest UFC Fight Night 16: "Fight for the Troops" fight card and rumors click here. The three-hour Spike TV special will begin to air at 8 p.m. ET on fight night.

Keep in mind that the special event is designed to raise funds for the construction of The National Intrepid Center of Excellence, a treatment center for Armed Forces personnel who have experienced traumatic brain injuries.

Therefore, donations are accepted and encouraged.