Undefeated heavyweight specimen Shane Carwin announced today that he expects to return to the Octagon at UFC 104, which is scheduled to go down at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, Calif., on Oct. 24.
The three-time All-American wrestler and two-time All-American in football out of Western State College in Gunnison, Colo., did not mention an opponent, saying he was "not sure yet." However, rumors have swirled in recent days and weeks that his foe could be none other than fellow heavyweight prospect Cain Velasquez.
For now it appears be just that, rumor. Nothing is official at this time.
Carwin has been on the sidelines since having surgery to a repair a broken nose, which was "crushed" during his fight with Gabriel Gonzaga at UFC 96: "Jackson vs. Jardine" from the Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio, on March 7.
Despite the injury and some choppy waters in the first minute of the opening round, Carwin was able to takedown the Brazilian Yeti and pound him out en route to an impressive technical knockout. "Napao" was hands down the biggest test of his bright career and Carwin passed with flying colors.
With quick wins over Gonzaga, as well as Christian Wellisch and Neil Wain under the UFC banner, "The Engineer"-- who still works full-time for the North Weld County Water District in Colorado -- is now seemingly on the brink of a title shot.
This next fight could just be enough to push him over the edge, or, it could send him to the back of the line, depending on his performance at UFC 104 and the corresponding results.
We’ll pass along news of his Carwin’s opponent as soon as possible. In the meantime, feel free to speculate and play matchmaker in the comments section below.
UFC 104 currently features a light heavyweight title fight between newly-minted champion Lyoto "The Dragon" Machida in his first title defense against 2005 Pride FC Middleweight Grand Prix winner Mauricio "Shogun" Rua.
To check out the latest UFC 104 fight card and rumors click here.
Get the latest gear
