Whats next for UFC Ironman Chris Leben?
Chris “The Crippler” Leben (20-6) has fought two times in the span of two weeks. The first against Aaron Simpson at the TUF 11 finale in which Leben called it a “hard sparring session”, the other a straight out WAR with Yoshihiro Akiyama at Saturdays UFC 116. Both of these fights Leben got the W, one by TKO and the other by submission plus two nightly bonuses.
This now puts Leben on a three fight win streak, putting him right in the mix of fighters waiting to fight the champion. After the fight Leben called out Akiyama’s original opponent Wanderlei Silva. Silva is obviously on the shelf right now and is scheduled to have knee surgery.
The UFC will probably want Leben to fight again while Silva heals up so here are some possible fights.
Chris Leben v Nate Marquardt/Rousimar Palhares winner (UFC 118)
Marquardt is a title contender coming off a loss to Cheal Sonnen, while Palhares is riding a three fight win streak. Both Marquardt and Palhares are tough and very powerful; giving Leben a solid challenge either way.
Chris Leben v Alan Belcher/Demian Maia winner UFN 22)
Damian has recent losses to Anderson Silva and Nate Marquardt but is a top level jiu-jitsu guy with the submission skills to beat anyone. Belcher much like Leben have defied the odds and beaten many of the top fighters. Belcher has also proven to be a good ground guy but is never afraid to stand and bang.
Chris Leben v Michael Bisping II
Bisping is rumored to be in the main event of the UFC 120 card with the possible opponent being Vitor Belort. If that fight doesn’t pan out, Leben could easily slide into this spot. The first match was very close and we know Leben would love to get his hands on Bisping again.
Chris Leben v Dan Miller
Miller last fought at UFC 115 against Michael Bisping, losing a unanimous decision. Miller has lost 3 fights in a row against solid completion but is a scrapper like Leben and would make for a great fight. This fight Might be a step back in opponents though for Leben.
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I’d like to see him fight Belcher or Bisping.
@FightCaps
I think Belcher could be a possiblity, either way Leben is so much fun to watch.
No doubt. Belcher and Leben would be a war. I just want him to fight Bisping to avenge the loss. haha
@mmaiceman
Bisping is likely going to fight Belfort though.
I like both Marquadrt or Belcher
I think its going to be the winner of either of those matches fighting Leben. Im a big Belcher fan. Its funny but he is still kind of unknown, he is def. written off all the time. Belcher needs more respect from people. He is kickin ass.