Eric Schafer (10-3-2) -- not Andre Gusmao as previously reported -- will collide with Antonio Mendes (15–3) in a light heavyweight clash at UFC 93: "Franklin vs. Henderson" at The O2 in Dublin, Ireland, on January 17.
"Red" is more than likely still riding high after surviving an early Houston Alexander onslaught at UFC Fight Night 15 back in September to eventually choke the father of six unconscious in the waning seconds of the first round.
It was the second win in four attempts inside the Octagon for the Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt. Schafer had to win his way back into the UFC in smaller shows after dropping back-to-back fights against Michael Bisping and Stephan Bonnar.
Mendes was on a nice run before he made his Octagon debut against Thiago Silva at UFC 84: "Ill Will" back in May. The Brazilian lost via submission (strikes) in the first round. Before the loss, Mendes was on an 11-fight win streak, competing primarily in his native Brazil and throughout Europe.
Rich "Ace" Franklin (24-3) and Dan "Hollywood" Henderson (23-7) -- two of the world’s most elite 205-pound fighters -- will headline UFC 93. Also featured is the return of Mauricio "Shogun" Rua as he takes on UFC pioneer Mark "The Hammer" Coleman.
To check out the latest UFC 93 fight card and rumors click here.