MMAmania.com - UFC on FUEL TV 7 results, recaps, streams, videos and more for 'Barao vs McDonald' on Feb. 16 in LondonBest UFC website for news, UFC results, fight highlights and UFC schedule, including live streaming updates, breaking MMA news and much more!https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/49461/mania-f.png2013-02-18T09:54:55-05:00http://www.mmamania.com/rss/stream/37599132013-02-18T09:54:55-05:002013-02-18T09:54:55-05:00Mania Hangover: Another UFC Win Eludes Santiago
<figure>
<img alt="Jorge Santiago gets a medical checkup after his UFC 130 fight against Brian Stann" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/NEHpXRQ4TuaHAGWyzoO8tWjQPPA=/0x0:899x599/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/8291965/065jorgesantiagovsbrianstann_gallery_post.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Jorge Santiago gets a medical checkup after his UFC 130 fight against Brian Stann | Esther Lin for MMA Fighting</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>After an action-packed UFC on FUEL TV 7 event in London, England, plenty of fighters are still feeling the post-fight buzz, but Jorge Santiago is likely suffering from a the worst hangover after losing under the UFC umbrella for the fifth consecutive time. </p> <p>Another weekend of fisticuffs has come and gone and after an exciting night of fights in London, England, there are undoubtedly more than a few people still suffering from a hangover, including mixed martial arts (MMA) fighters themselves.</p>
<p>No, I'm not referring to the after-effects fighters feels after hitting the local pubs to celebrate a job well done or the loser drowning his sorrows looking for answers at the bottom of a bottle. Though some may be suffering from a wild night out in the U.K., I'm referring to the effects of losing a big fight.</p>
<p>At <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight-card/115915/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7">UFC on FUEL TV 7</a>, which took place at Wembley Arena this past weekend (Feb. 16, 2013), there may be more than a few fighters still licking their wounds. From <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122975/michael-mcdonald">Michael McDonald's</a> <a href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/16/3996486/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-results-renan-barao-submits-michael-mcdonald-interim-bantamweight-title">submission loss</a> to <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/promotion/ufc">Ultimate Fighting Championship</a> (UFC) interim <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/weight_class/bantamweight">bantamweight</a> champ <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129571/renan-barao">Renan Barao</a>, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122634/stanislav-nedkov">Stanislav Nedkov's</a> knockout loss to <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/130047/tom-watson">Tom Watson</a> and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122609/cyrille-diabate">Cyrille Diabate</a> suffering from a <a href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/16/3996976/pic-cyrille-diabate-suffers-torn-right-calf-muscle-in-ufc-on-fuel-tv">torn right calf muscle</a>, the night was filled with devastating losses for many combatants.</p>
<p>But, which fighter is still suffering from the worst hangover, now two days removed?</p>
<p><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122566/jorge-santiago">Jorge Santiago</a>.</p>
<p>The former Sengoku <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/weight_class/middleweight">middleweight</a> champion took on <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/126780/gunnar-nelson">Gunnar Nelson</a> in what was the Brazilian's debut at <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/weight_class/welterweight">welterweight</a>. While Santiago got off to a decent start in the opening frame, landing a few solid shots to the chin of the Icelandic grappler, "Gunni" managed to adjust and take control of the contest though the visibly exhausted Santiago turned up the heat in the final seconds of the fight, landing a huge right hand which could have proved disastrous for Gunnar had there been a few more ticks remaining on the clock.</p>
<p>Though "The Sandman" put on a valiant effort, he failed, once again, to earn a victory under the bright lights of the UFC, coming up on the <a href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/16/3996258/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-results-gunnar-nelson-scores-decision-victory-over-jorge-santiago">wrong side of the judges' scorecards</a>, dropping his fifth straight fight inside the Octagon in what was his third go-round with the promotion.</p>
<p>Santiago is a curious case, to say the least. We have a talented fighter who has all the potential in the world and who holds wins over the likes of <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/131378/siyar-bahadurzada">Siyar Bahadurzada</a>, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/151152/kazuo-misaki">Kazuo Misaki</a>, and even won the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/promotion/strikeforce">Strikeforce</a> Middleweight Grand Prix in 2007 and the Sengoku 185-pound Grand Prix the following year. Yet, in his three stints with the UFC, he has only managed to win one fight, his debut back in 2006 against Justin Levens. He proceeded to drop two straight to <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/128665/chris-leben">Chris Leben</a> and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129560/alan-belcher">Alan Belcher</a> immediately after, which isn't anything to really frown about.</p>
<p>After getting the ax from the UFC, "The Sandman" managed to collect an impressive 11-1 record outside of the Octagon which earned him a second invite to compete inside the eight-walled cage, only to drop two straight in the span of five months to <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/128666/brian-stann">Brian Stann</a> and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122560/demian-maia">Demian Maia</a> in 2011. After getting his pink slip one more time, he picked up two wins under the Titan FC banner to receive his most recent chance to prove he can succeed on the biggest stage of them all, replacing an <a href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/1/23/3908056/jorge-santiago-returns-ufc-replaces-justin-edwards-gunnar-nelson-mma">injured</a> <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/131655/justin-edwards">Justin Edwards</a> against Nelson this past weekend.</p>
<p>And, just like his previous four attempts, Santiago came up short, running his UFC record to 1-5.</p>
<p>It's sad really, because every time I see that Santiago managed to get another chance with the UFC, I admit, I see a glimmer of hope. I think, this time will be different. I look forward to the flashes of brilliance the 32-year old once showed such as his "Fight of the Year" performance against Misaki just two years ago. But, those flashes never come. Do I expect a replay of Santiago vs. Misaki 2 each time out? No. But, I do, however, look forward to a better output from the Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt who has the <i>potential </i>to make a run, but, just hasn't fulfilled it yet.</p>
<p>At least not inside the Octagon.</p>
<p>It's not that he doesn't put up a fight. On the contrary, his spirited effort against Nelson likely earned him another shot at redemption, but, for some reason, he just can't seem to pop off enough offense in order to secure the big win he needs to hang around the promotion longer than two fights.</p>
<p>Could it be that the pressure of fighting for the UFC that's too much? Is it the level of competition he's faced? Taking on Stann and Maia in consecutive bouts is no easy task for anyone. The luck of the draw wasn't on his side when he got the bid to take on the undefeated (11-0-1) "Gunni" on three weeks notice, either. Or is the painful, yet, simple truth that Santiago, as talented as he is, shines better under the dimmer lights of local promotions?</p>
<p>As the old adage goes, there are no easy fights in the UFC, but, I think we can agree Jorge's last five opponents with the UFC have been far from gimmes. Having said that, I'd like to see Santiago get at least one more fight to prove he is worthy of a spot on the overly-crowded roster. His "never say die" attitude in London earned him at least that much.</p>
<p>Against who, you ask?</p>
<p>I'm thinking <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/132857/che-mills">Che Mills</a>. Both would be ready to scrap around the same time given the fact they each competed at UFC on FUEL TV 7 and didn't acquire any visible injuries. The fight, too, would allow both men to do what the do best, and that's stand-and-bang.</p>
<p>With neither Santiago or Mills in danger of being confused as world class wrestlers and in a bout that will likely be decided on the feet, something would have to give here.</p>
<p>But would it be Santiago ... again?</p>
https://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/18/3998630/jorges-santiago-ufc-on-fuel-7-fight-hangover-mmaAdam Guillen2013-02-18T08:00:10-05:002013-02-18T08:00:10-05:00It's A Wrap! UFC on FUEL TV 7 Edition
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/t71v5RT1lT_efkL1WsphvFiFlis=/0x122:2692x1917/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/8299611/20120721_kdl_as9_540.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Anne-Marie Sorvin-US PRESSWIRE</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Wrapping up the UFC on FUEL TV 7: "Barao vs. McDonald" event that took place on Sat., Feb. 17, 2013, at Wembley Arena in London, England, featuring Renan Barao vs. Michael McDonald and much, much more.</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight-card/115915/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7" class="sbn-auto-link">UFC on FUEL TV 7</a>: "Barao vs. McDonald" blew the roof off the Wembley Arena in London, England, yesterday (Sat., Feb. 16, 2013) featuring a main event of Interim <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/weight_class/bantamweight" class="sbn-auto-link">Bantamweight</a> Champion <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129571/renan-barao" class="sbn-auto-link">Renan Barao</a> continuing his unbelievable streak of victories by submitting the durable <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122975/michael-mcdonald" class="sbn-auto-link">Michael McDonald</a>.</p>
<p>Who can stop this man? <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/127865/dominick-cruz" class="sbn-auto-link">Dominick Cruz</a>, perhaps?</p>
<p>The co-headlining attraction saw <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122976/cub-swanson" class="sbn-auto-link">Cub Swanson</a> open up on <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122973/dustin-poirier" class="sbn-auto-link">Dustin Poirier</a> and earn his fourth victory in a row, inching him one step closer to a long awaited rematch with <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/weight_class/featherweight" class="sbn-auto-link">Featherweight</a> Champion <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122473/jose-aldo" class="sbn-auto-link">Jose Aldo</a>.</p>
<p>The rest of the main card featured <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129081/jimi-manuwa" class="sbn-auto-link">Jimi Manuwa's</a> first round doctor stoppage victory over <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122609/cyrille-diabate" class="sbn-auto-link">Cyrille Diabate</a> and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129579/james-te-huna" class="sbn-auto-link">James Te Huna's</a> incredible come-from-behind win over <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129052/ryan-jimmo" class="sbn-auto-link">Ryan Jimmo</a>.</p>
<p>In cased you missed any or all of it -- or just want to keep the discussion alive -- below are links to all the major storylines borne from Saturday night's event in England.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">________________________________</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><b>UFC on FUEL TV 7: "Barao vs. McDonald"</b></span></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/6/3960086/ufc-fuel-tv-7-results-live-fight-stream-online-coverage-barao-mcdonald-mma/in/3759913">Results and live fight coverage</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/16/3995904/ufc-fuel-tv-7-post-fight-press-conference-live-stream-video-online-youtube-barao-mcdonald-london-mma/in/3759913">Post-fight press conference</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/16/3996660/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-bonuses-and-awards-tom-watson-banks-extra-100k-knockout-fight-of-the-night/in/3759913">Bonuses and awards</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/16/3996726/renan-barao-vs-michael-mcdonald-full-fight-video-highlights-from-ufc-on-fuel-tv-7/in/3759913">Renen Barao vs. Michael McDonald full fight video highlights</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/17/3997560/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-results-video-highlights-barao-vs-mcdonald-swanson-vs-poirier/in/3759913">Complete main card video highlights</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/16/3995982/ufc-fuel-tv-7-results-recap-renan-barao-vs-michael-mcdonald-prelims-winners-losers-facebook/in/3759913">"Prelims" results recap</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/16/3996010/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-results-matt-riddle-defeats-che-mills-in-dull-affair/in/3759913">Recap: Matt Riddle beats Che Mills</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/16/3996120/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-results-james-te-huna-earns-comeback-victory-over-ryan-jimmo/in/3759913">Recap: James Te Huna comes back on Ryan Jimmo</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/16/3996258/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-results-gunnar-nelson-scores-decision-victory-over-jorge-santiago/in/3759913">Recap: Gunnar Nelson decisions Jorge Santiago</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/16/3996342/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-results-cyrille-diabate-injury-leads-to-jimi-manuwa-tko-victory/in/3759913">Recap: Cyrille Diabate gets hurt, Jimi Manuwa wins</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/16/3996388/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-results-cub-swanson-beats-dustin-poirier-in-fight-of-the-night/in/3759913">Recap: Cub Swanson beats down Dustin Poirier</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/16/3996486/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-results-renan-barao-submits-michael-mcdonald-interim-bantamweight-title/in/3759913">Recap: Renan Barao submits Michael McDonald</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/17/3997582/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-results-recap-james-te-huna-vs-ryan-jimmo-fight-review-mma/in/3759913">Review: James Te Huna vs. Ryan Jimmo</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/17/3997718/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-results-recap-gunnar-nelson-vs-jorge-santiago-fight-review/in/3759913">Review: Gunnar Nelson vs. Jorge Santiago</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/17/3997720/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-results-recap-cub-swanson-vs-dustin-poirier-fight-review">Review: Cub Swanson vs. Dustin Poirier</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/17/3997684/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-results-recap-renan-barao-vs-michael-mcdonald-fight/in/3759913">Review: Renan Barao vs. Michael McDonald</a></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><b>UFC on FUEL TV 7 post-fight fallout</b></span></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/17/3997354/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-results-recap-who-is-next-for-renan-barao/in/3759913">What's next for Renan Barao?</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/17/3997348/ufc-fuel-tv-7-biggest-winner-loser-barao-mcdonald-swanson-watson-mma/in/3759913">Biggest winner and lowliest loser</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/17/3998700/joe-silva-shoes-matchmaker-ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-barao-mcdonald-mma/in/3759913">Joe Silva's Shoes: Possible next fights for FUEL TV 7 winners</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/16/3996994/video-dana-white-ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-post-fight-media-scrum-full-video/in/3759913">Full Dana White media scrum video</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/17/3997334/ufc-president-dana-white-ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-post-fight-interview-barao-mcdonald-mma/in/3759913">Dana White wraps up UFC on FUEL TV 7</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/17/3998786/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-results-25-post-event-facts-barao-mcdonald-mma/in/3759913">25 post-event facts about "Barao vs. McDonald"</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/16/3996684/dominick-cruz-not-concerned-with-renan-barao-after-winning-ufc-on/in/3759913">Dominick Cruz not concerned with Renan Barao</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/17/3997452/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-results-cub-swanson-takes-one-step-closer-to-jose-aldo-rematch">Cub Swanson is one step closer to Jose Aldo rematch</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/17/3997852/ufc-fuel-tv-7-james-te-huna-headkick-knockdown-ryan-jimmo-next-fight-london-mma/in/3759913">James Te Huna doesn't remember getting head kicked</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/17/3997918/gunnar-nelson-ufc-fuel-7-performance-killer-instinct-dana-white-london-mma/in/3759913">Gunnar Nelson has got to get some killer instinct</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/17/3998088/ufc-quick-quote-matt-riddle-held-back-against-che-mills-at-ufc-on/in/3759913">Matt Riddle says he held back against Che Mills</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">________________________________</p>
<p>That, my friends, should be enough to keep you talking -- at least for the time being. What gets your vote for the biggest story coming out of UFC on FUEL TV 7?</p>
<p>Sound off, Maniacs.</p>
https://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/18/4000354/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-results-recap-renan-barao-vs-michael-mcdonald-event-wrap-up-londonGeno Mrosko2013-02-17T20:00:07-05:002013-02-17T20:00:07-05:00Matchmaker For UFC On FUEL TV 7 Main Card Winners
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Ai2ymBe30h36jBCteLCInen5-m8=/0x179:512x520/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/8280853/20120622_jla_aa9_273.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Joe Camporeale-US PRESSWIRE</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Playing fantasy matchmaker is one of the most enjoyable things to do for mixed martial arts (MMA) fans, and with UFC on FUEL TV 7: "Barao vs. McDonald" behind us, we put ourselves in Joe Silva's shoes to play matchmaker for both event's main card winners.</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight-card/115915/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7" class="sbn-auto-link">UFC on FUEL TV 7</a>: "Barao vs. McDonald" is in the books and in the organization's first overseas event of 2013, the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/promotion/ufc" class="sbn-auto-link">Ultimate Fighting Championship</a> (UFC) delivered a scintillating night of mixed martial arts (MMA) action.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129571/renan-barao" class="sbn-auto-link">Renan Barao</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122976/cub-swanson" class="sbn-auto-link">Cub Swanson</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129081/jimi-manuwa" class="sbn-auto-link">Jimi Manuwa</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129579/james-te-huna" class="sbn-auto-link">James Te Huna</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/126780/gunnar-nelson" class="sbn-auto-link">Gunnar Nelson</a> and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/127375/matt-riddle" class="sbn-auto-link">Matt Riddle</a> were the big winners Saturday (Feb. 16, 2013) at Wembley Arena in London, England, as each picked up a victory over their respective opponents on the main card, which aired on FUEL TV.</p>
<p>After every fight card, fans wonder who the winners will be matched up with next. With another night of heart-racing fights in the rear-view mirror, it's time to look forward and put ourselves in Joe Silva's shoes to play UFC matchmaker.</p>
<p><b>Winner: </b>Matt Riddle <br><b>Who He Should Fight Next: </b>Gunnar Nelson<br><b>Why They Should Fight: </b>Matt Riddle and Gunnar Nelson picked up decisive wins at UFC on FUEL TV 7 as Riddle grinded out <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/132857/che-mills" class="sbn-auto-link">Che Mills</a> for a decision win while Nelson outpointed <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122566/jorge-santiago" class="sbn-auto-link">Jorge Santiago</a> over three rounds.</p>
<p>In a way, both men need to fight each other next in order to prove a point. Riddle hasn't faced a high-level submission artist in his 12-fight career, while on the flip side; Nelson has yet to be matched up against a smothering American wrestler.</p>
<p>With both men on impressive win-streaks, now is the time to put together a match up that will take the winner to the next level. If Riddle can get by the highly-touted Nelson, it would show he is capable of beating more than just bottom-level welterweights, while a victory for "Gunni" proves he can get by a fighter with a wrestling base, because there's certainly no shortage of those types of fighters at 170-pounds.</p>
<p><b>Winner: </b>James Te Huna<br><b>Who He Should Fight Next: </b>Jimi Manuwa<br><b>Why They Should Fight: </b>James Te Huna and Jimi Manuwa are both on nice winning streaks at 205-pounds, and considering each man's place in the light heavyweight rankings and the fact they both earned victories at UFC on FUEL TV 7, they seem to be on a collision course with one another.</p>
<p>Both men prefer to keep fights standing and slug it out until their opponent either hits the ground unconscious or the final bell rings. This would be a great fight for all fans of the sport and there's no way it would be a letdown.</p>
<p>The only roadblock to this match up would be if one of the two fighters are injured and cannot compete again for a while. If you had to take a guess, that would likely be Te Huna who got pretty banged up in his fight with <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129052/ryan-jimmo" class="sbn-auto-link">Ryan Jimmo</a> while Manuwa came out of his win over <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122609/cyrille-diabate" class="sbn-auto-link">Cyrille Diabate</a> essentially unscathed.</p>
<p>If both are healthy, this is a fight that has all the makings of a highlight reel finish.</p>
<p><b>Winner: </b>Gunnar Nelson<br><b>Who He Should Fight Next:</b> Matt Riddle<br><b>Why They Should Fight: </b>See above.</p>
<p><b>Winner: </b>Jimi Manuwa<br><b>Who He Should Fight Next: </b>James Te Huna<br><b>Why They Should Fight: </b>As stated above, this fight makes all the sense in the world with both men coming off impressive victories at UFC on FUEL TV 7. Moreover, UFC President Dana White expressed interested in having Manuwa and Te Huna coach the second season of The Ultimate Fighter: Australia vs. UK, a roll that would fit both fighters perfectly.</p>
<p><b>Winner: </b>Cub Swanson <br><b>Who He Should Fight Next: </b><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122481/chan-sung-jung" class="sbn-auto-link">Chan Sung Jung</a><br><b>Why They Should Fight: </b>With <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122473/jose-aldo" class="sbn-auto-link">Jose Aldo</a> set to defend the featherweight title against <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122902/anthony-pettis" class="sbn-auto-link">Anthony Pettis</a> in August and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/131141/ricardo-lamas" class="sbn-auto-link">Ricardo Lamas</a> already set up with a fight in May, there aren't many logical options for Cub Swanson to take on next after his unanimous decision victory over <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122973/dustin-poirier" class="sbn-auto-link">Dustin Poirier</a> at UFC on FUEL TV 7.</p>
<p>Swanson has earned four consecutive victories at 145-pounds, which would typically be enough to warrant a title shot or at the very least a No. 1 contenders fight. With a title fight out of the question at this point, it only makes sense to put Swanson in a fight that would move him towards the belt. The only candidate who fits the bill at this point in time is Chan Sung Jung.</p>
<p>"The Korean Zombie" is expected to return from injury this summer after sitting out since May 2012. Jung's last fight was a submission of Poirier, who Swanson also just happened to defeat.</p>
<p>Swanson and Jung are both well rounded, exciting fighters with the ability to end a fight anytime, anywhere. Throw that combination into the cage with high stakes such a No.1 contendership on the line and you have what will very likely be a memorable fight on your hands.</p>
<p><b>Winner: </b>Renan Barao <br><b>Who He Should Fight Next: </b><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/127865/dominick-cruz" class="sbn-auto-link">Dominick Cruz</a> or <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122968/eddie-wineland" class="sbn-auto-link">Eddie Wineland</a><br><b>Why They Should Fight: </b>It seems as though Renan Barao is going to wait for Dominick Cruz to return from injury to unify the UFC bantamweight championship after defending the interim title against <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122975/michael-mcdonald" class="sbn-auto-link">Michael McDonald</a> in the UFC on FUEL TV 7 headliner.</p>
<p>If a fight with Cruz isn't in the cards and Barao is forced to compete again, the best candidate to challenge him for the interim belt would be Eddie Wineland. If you go by the official UFC rankings, Barao has already defeated four of the top five ranked fighters in the bantamweight division, with the exception of Wineland.</p>
<p>For a lengthy explanation on the entire situation and what Barao should do next, read,<a href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/17/3997354/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-results-recap-who-is-next-for-renan-barao" style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">"Who Is Next For Renan Barao?"</a></p>
<p>That ends this edition of Joe Silva's shoes. What do you think of these potential match ups? Do you agree? Disagree?</p>
<p>Let us know in the comments section below what fights you would make if you were in Joe Silva's shoes and played the role of UFC matchmaker.</p>
https://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/17/3998700/joe-silva-shoes-matchmaker-ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-barao-mcdonald-mmaMike Bohn2013-02-17T18:00:06-05:002013-02-17T18:00:06-05:00Riddle: I Held Back Against Che Mills
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/LMUgLwU9MLRJ0LJqtG2VlfCRBPY=/0x185:2745x2015/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/8272013/20120721_kdl_as9_428.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Anne-Marie Sorvin-US PRESSWIRE</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Matt Riddle wasn't entirely satisfied with his UFC on FUEL TV 7 performance against Che Mills, rating his winning effort as a "B-." Riddle believes he could have done more in the fight, but say he "held back" from fighting wildly to ensure he secured the decision victory.
</p> <blockquote>
<p><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"><i>"I think if I went out of grade A, B, C, D, I'd give myself a B minus. You know, there's a lot more I could have done, you know I held back. I held back because <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/132857/che-mills" class="sbn-auto-link">Che Mills</a> is extremely dangerous. All it takes is one mistake and one knee to my chin and I would have been waking up on the flight home tomorrow. So, you know, when you're fighting at this level you've got to fight smart and, you know, the fans are harsh critics but at the end of the day it's your body, your life, your record and you got to do what's right for yourself."</i></span></p>
</blockquote>
<p>-- <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/promotion/ufc" class="sbn-auto-link">Ultimate Fighting Championship</a> (UFC) <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/weight_class/welterweight" class="sbn-auto-link">Welterweight</a> <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/127375/matt-riddle" class="sbn-auto-link">Matt Riddle</a> tells <a href="http://www.sherdog.com/videos/videointerview/Matt-Riddle-Breaks-Down-Win-at-UFC-on-Fuel-TV-7-4613">Sherdog</a> that he held back during his encounter with Che Mills in the opening fight of the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight-card/115915/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7" class="sbn-auto-link">UFC on FUEL TV 7</a>: "Barao vs. McDonald" television broadcast. Riddle won the fight by split decision, taking Mills into "Deep Waters" with his overwhelming wrestling abilities which Mills simply didn't have an answer for. It wasn't the most exciting performance of Riddle's career, but the 26-year-old says the reason for that is he didn't put the pedal to the metal and fought conservatively. Riddle viewed Mills as an extremely dangerous opponent and while fans may not have been gushing over the fight, Riddle got the win and that's what it most important to him. The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) season 7 cast member is undefeated in his past four fights with all of his wins coming by decision.</p>
https://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/17/3998088/ufc-quick-quote-matt-riddle-held-back-against-che-mills-at-ufc-onMike Bohn2013-02-17T17:00:06-05:002013-02-17T17:00:06-05:0025 UFC On FUEL TV 7 Post-Event Facts From London
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/d0zxKzjq4vyrf3JtncvNEuOJdKI=/0x26:400x293/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47827995/large_mmamania.com.minimal.0.png" />
</figure>
<p>UFC on FUEL TV 7: "Barao vs. McDonald" took place Saturday afternoon (Feb. 16, 2013) in London, England, with Renan Barao defeating Michael McDonald by submission in the main event to defend the interim UFC bantamweight championship of the world. The undercard of the FUEL TV broadcast saw Cub Swanson, Jimi Manuwa, Gunnar Nelson, James Te Huna and Matt Riddle earn victories over their respective opponents.</p> <p>There were plenty of facts to come out of <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight-card/115915/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7">UFC on FUEL TV 7</a>: "Barao vs. McDonald" which took place at Wembley Arena in London, England, on Feb. 16, 2013.</p>
<p>Some are notable; others irrelevant and a few will expand your knowledge.</p>
<p>For instance, we know that <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129571/renan-barao">Renan Barao</a> and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122975/michael-mcdonald">Michael McDonald</a> collided in the main event, with Barao earning a fourth-round submission victory and, in the process, defending his interim belt for the first time.</p>
<p>That's not all we know, though.</p>
<p>Check out 25 post-fight facts about UFC on FUEL TV 7: "Barao vs. McDonald" below:</p>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">Barao became the first interim champion in UFC history to successfully defend the belt since Andre Arlovski, who defended the interim title against Justin Eilers at UFC 53 before being promoted to undisputed <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/weight_class/heavyweight">heavyweight</a> champion.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/151647/andy-ogle">Andy Ogle</a> was the 9th fighter in UFC history to compete on his birthday. The overall record for those fighters is 4-5.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122634/stanislav-nedkov">Stanislav Nedkov</a> was legitimately defeated for the first time in his 14-fight mixed martial arts (MMA) career.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">British fighters went 5-2 against opponents from other countries on the card.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129081/jimi-manuwa">Jimi Manuwa</a> has won three consecutive fights at the 5:00 mark of a round.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122478/josh-grispi">Josh Grispi</a> dropped to 0-4 in the UFC; he has not won an MMA fight since June 2010.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">Barao vs. McDonald was the first UFC title fight to take place in the U.K. since <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122540/b-j-penn">B.J. Penn</a> vs. <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/127368/joe-stevenson">Joe Stevenson</a> at UFC 80 in January 2008.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">After starting his MMA career 13-0, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122612/paul-sass">Paul Sass</a> has lost two consecutive fights.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">UFC on FUEL TV 7 drew an attendance of 10,349 for a live gate of $1,300,000.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122609/cyrille-diabate">Cyrille Diabate</a> lost by TKO for the second time in his 29-fight career. The first was to <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122520/mauricio-rua">Mauricio Rua</a> in September 2006.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/132889/terry-etim">Terry Etim</a> has lost three of his last four fights.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122566/jorge-santiago">Jorge Santiago</a> fell to 1-5 (five-straight losses) inside the Octagon and has not won a UFC fight since defeating Justin Levens in his UFC debut at UFC Fight Night 5 in June 2006.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">Manuwa earned his 13th consecutive stoppage victory with a TKO of Diabate.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">UFC on FUEL TV 7 was the first fight card in UFC history to have nine fights go to a decision. The previous record was eight decisions on a UFC card; a record tied between nine events.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">Barao has won 20-straight fights and is undefeated in his last 31 MMA bouts.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129647/danny-castillo">Danny Castillo</a> pushed his record under the UFC banner to 5-2 with a decision win over Sass.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122976/cub-swanson">Cub Swanson</a> tied <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122473/jose-aldo">Jose Aldo</a>, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/131141/ricardo-lamas">Ricardo Lamas</a> and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122973/dustin-poirier">Dustin Poirier</a> for the longest win-streak in UFC <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/weight_class/featherweight">featherweight</a> history at four.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">McDonald was submitted for the first time in his 17-fight career.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">Barao earned the first finish in a UFC title fight since <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122514/jon-jones">Jon Jones</a> against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122550/vitor-belfort">Vitor Belfort</a> at <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight-card/95855/ufc-152-jones-vs-belfort">UFC 152</a> in September 2012.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/130047/tom-watson">Tom Watson</a> earned an additional $100,000 for ‘Fight of the Night' and ‘Knockout of the Night,' making him the first fighter since <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/127866/scott-jorgensen">Scott Jorgensen</a> at UFC on FOX 5 to receive a double bonus.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/127375/matt-riddle">Matt Riddle</a> is one of three active UFC fighters to have fought all his professional bouts in the UFC. The other two are <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122897/amir-sadollah">Amir Sadollah</a> and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122496/matt-mitrione">Matt Mitrione</a>.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129579/james-te-huna">James Te Huna</a> has won 10 of his last 11 fights with the lone defeat coming to <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122632/alexander-gustafsson">Alexander Gustafsson</a>.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129052/ryan-jimmo">Ryan Jimmo</a> saw his 17-fight win-streak come to an end and suffered his first defeat since his first professional bout in February 2007.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/177979/motonobu-tezuka">Motonobu Tezuka</a> and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129528/ulysses-gomez">Ulysses Gomez</a> dropped to 0-2 inside the Octagon.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">The total cage time of the 12-bout UFC on FUEL TV 7 fight card was two hours, 48 minutes and 39 seconds.</span></li>
</ol>
<p>That's a wrap for this set of UFC facts.</p>
<p>Did you learn anything new/interesting? Do any of the facts change your perspective on Saturday's fights?</p>
<p>Let us know below!</p>
https://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/17/3998786/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-results-25-post-event-facts-barao-mcdonald-mmaMike Bohn2013-02-17T13:01:49-05:002013-02-17T13:01:49-05:00Analyzing Nelson vs Santiago post-fight
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/3MA8jHlev5ZFSq-FfJLX10mNh18=/0x42:274x225/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/8274783/153041616-jpg_211831.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Tracy Lee via CombatLifestyle</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>MMAmania's Brian Hemminger takes a look back at last night's UFC on Fuel TV 7 main card bout between welterweights Gunnar Nelson and Jorge Santiago. What helped Nelson score his biggest career victory? Find out below. </p> <p>Two talented welterweights waged war yesterday (Feb. 16, 2013) as top Icelandic prospect <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/126780/gunnar-nelson">Gunnar Nelson</a> took on veteran <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122566/jorge-santiago">Jorge Santiago</a> on the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight-card/115915/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7">UFC on FUEL TV 7</a> main card in London, England.</p>
<p>Santiago was hoping a drop in weight class would fix his woes inside the Octagon.</p>
<p>He thought wrong.</p>
<p>Nelson worked some unique kicking attacks early on, but it was actually Santiago who landed the biggest strikes in the opening round, really finding his groove at the end of the frame.</p>
<p>The Icelandic prodigy made the proper adjustments heading into the second round, securing a big takedown and really working ground and pound while passing Santiago's guard. Both men were Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belts, but Nelson was incredibly smooth, eventually passing to full mount in the final minute and landing some solid shots from top position. </p>
<p>Despite his success on the ground, Nelson kept it standing in the third round, really pressing the action and making Santiago fight off his back foot. The Renzo Gracie black belt put some serious pressure on Santiago and landed his best strikes of the night, working a solid uppercut that connected consistently while also throwing some nice straight punches.</p>
<p>Santiago tried to go for broke at the end with a big combination and landed a huge right hand right before the bell but it was too little too late as the judges all awarded Nelson the decision victory. </p>
<p>For Jorge Santiago, he actually didn't look that bad here and I gave him the first round of the fight due to landing some harder strikes. It took a few minutes for him to find his range, but his right hand was really working for him in this fight and it's a shame he didn't go back to his kicks and knees he threw early because they seemed like they were working. He looked much better at welterweight, lighter on his feet and quicker overall, but he still couldn't handle the speed and awkwardness of Nelson.</p>
<p>Santiago took this fight on short notice and deserves another shot. I'd love to see him fight someone like <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/141757/seth-baczynski">Seth Baczynski</a>, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/132857/che-mills">Che Mills</a> or perhaps <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129563/mike-swick">Mike Swick</a> in his next bout.</p>
<p>For Gunnar Nelson, he's quickly becoming one of the most interesting and unique fighters on the UFC roster. His fighting style is so strange, with his hands low, throwing random kicks and not being afraid to try anything. Hopefully he remembers to keep the hands up in his next fight though, or he could find himself on the receiving end of a huge shot. His grappling was his biggest strength here and while he showed some strides in his striking, he still definitely needs work.</p>
<p>Nelson doesn't have a ton of power in his punches yet, but he did land a few good shots against Santiago that hurt him. It would have been nice to see him really turn it on in the third and go for the finish when "The Sandman" was wobbled, but that's something he'll learn in time. Going the distance was good for him as it was the first time he'd done it in victory and he proved he's got excellent conditioning even at the highest platform of the sport. </p>
<p>Next up for Nelson will hopefully be someone like <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/125024/pascal-krauss">Pascal Krauss</a>, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/125027/kyle-noke">Kyle Noke</a> or <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122579/john-hathaway">John Hathaway</a>. I also wouldn't mind seeing him drop down to lightweight as being a smaller welterweight is going to catch up to him at some point. </p>
<p><b>For complete UFC on Fuel TV 7 results, including blow-by-blow, fight-by-fight coverage of the entire event as well as immediate post-fight reaction click <a href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/6/3960086/ufc-fuel-tv-7-results-live-fight-stream-online-coverage-barao-mcdonald-mma">here</a>, here and </b><a href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/16/3996258/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-results-gunnar-nelson-scores-decision-victory-over-jorge-santiago">here</a><b>.</b></p>
https://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/17/3997718/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-results-recap-gunnar-nelson-vs-jorge-santiago-fight-reviewBrian Hemminger2013-02-17T12:00:10-05:002013-02-17T12:00:10-05:00Who Does UFC on FUEL TV 7s Renan Barao Fight Next?
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/f3zAIJeklNQgpMCOuCbX3QJ28kM=/0x551:2666x2328/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/8260817/20120721_kdl_as9_535.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Anne-Marie Sorvin-US PRESSWIRE</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>After picking up his first interim title defense with a submission win over Michael McDonald in the UFC on FUEL TV 7 headliner, we discuss what's next for interim UFC bantamweight champ Renan Barao.</p> <p>Interim <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/promotion/ufc" class="sbn-auto-link">Ultimate Fighting Championship</a> (UFC) bantamweight champion <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129571/renan-barao" class="sbn-auto-link">Renan Barao</a> kept his stranglehold on the 135-pound division in <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/127865/dominick-cruz" class="sbn-auto-link">Dominick Cruz's</a> absence with a fourth-round submission of <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122975/michael-mcdonald" class="sbn-auto-link">Michael McDonald</a> in the main event of <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight-card/115915/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7" class="sbn-auto-link">UFC on FUEL TV 7</a>: "Barao vs. McDonald" last night (Feb. 16, 2013) in London, England.</p>
<p>Entering his first interim title defense on the heels of a unanimous decision win over former <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/promotion/wec" class="sbn-auto-link">World Extreme Cagefighting</a> (WEC) champion <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122468/urijah-faber" class="sbn-auto-link">Urijah Faber</a>, Barao carried a tremendous amount of momentum into the event, and as seen in his win over McDonald, the 25-year-old has only improved since his last bout in July 2012.</p>
<p>McDonald had no answer for the well-rounded effort brought forth by Barao and that's ultimately why he resulted on the wrong end of an arm-triangle choke.</p>
<p>The win at Wembley Arena pushed Barao's astronomical undefeated streak to 31-straight fights, a run so impressive it's almost hard to fathom, and only raises the question: who can beat the Brazilian?</p>
<p>At this point, after his submission of "Mayday," it's hard to look at the 135-pound weight class and pick out an opponent who would be favored over Barao.</p>
<p>The next fight really depends on two major factors. One, when will bantamweight champion Dominick Cruz be ready to return to the Octagon? And two, how long does Barao want to wait to fight again?</p>
<p>The answer to question one is very much up in the air as the neither UFC nor Cruz has released an update on an exact return date for "The Dominator." If he is ready to go by summertime, it's possible the UFC waits to put together a unification bout. From Cruz's standpoint, it's a lot to ask him to come back after what would be roughly two years away from the sport and fight Barao immediately. A warm-up fight would be ideal, but that's simply not how the UFC operates and Cruz will immediately be thrown into the fire whenever he is finally healthy.</p>
<p>Barao made it public after winning the interim belt last year that he wanted to wait to fight Cruz; however, when the 27-year-old went under the knife for a second knee surgery, Barao had no choice but to take the bout with McDonald. If he wanted to wait around in the past, it's all but guaranteed he will want to wait for Cruz again, and whether or not that happens is dependent on the champ's recover time.</p>
<p>Should Cruz's recovery go through another hiccup and Barao is required to fight, there is really only one logical opponent out there for him at this time.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122968/eddie-wineland" class="sbn-auto-link">Eddie Wineland</a>.</p>
<p>If you go by the official UFC rankings, Barao has already wiped the floor with four of the top five ranked fighters in the bantamweight division, with the exception of Wineland.</p>
<p>Wineland is on a nice two-fight win-streak that includes a knockout of <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/127866/scott-jorgensen" class="sbn-auto-link">Scott Jorgensen</a> and a decision over fan favorite <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/127987/brad-pickett" class="sbn-auto-link">Brad Pickett</a>, and he could easily be groomed as the next title challenger at 135-pounds.</p>
<p>Barao would certainly have an advantage on the ground, but Wineland's defensive wrestling, boxing and knockout power would certainly give him a chance of being the one to stop Barao's ridiculous win-streak.</p>
<p>Outside of Wineland, the options for title challengers in the division are thin. Had Barao lost to McDonald, the UFC could easily groom Urijah Faber as the No. 1 contender if he defeats <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/127988/ivan-menjivar" class="sbn-auto-link">Ivan Menjivar</a> at <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight-card/115871/ufc-157-rousey-vs-carmouche" class="sbn-auto-link">UFC 157</a> next week, but with Barao just one fight removed from a win over Faber, setting up that rematch would not be appealing to many fans.</p>
<p>The most likely option for Barao is that he will try to sit and wait for Cruz to return from injury, which is probably the smart move if the fight can happen in the next six to eight months. Unfortunately for Barao, he lives in a world where him employers are putting on upwards of 30 fight cards a year and the organization needs championship fights as often as possible.</p>
<p>This entire situation is dependent on Cruz, so hopefully more answers regarding his health will be revealed in the coming weeks. <br><br>Who would you like to see Barao face next? Let us know in the comments section below.</p>
https://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/17/3997354/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-results-recap-who-is-next-for-renan-baraoMike Bohn