By MATT MOLGAARD
MMANEWS.COM Staff Writer
Over the last week, UFC brass has all but admitted that the anticipated rematch between long reigning middleweight champion Anderson Silva and top contender and arch nemesis Chael Sonnen would not take place in Brazil, but Las Vegas. While, Vegas has officially been eliminated as an option to play host to the event, things are still shifting.
Today, White has officially confirmed the shift, which ultimately stems from an overlapping schedule with the United Nations' “Rio +20” meeting. The meeting presented a number of obstacles to overcome, including political pressure from local officials and a lack of hotel rooms to accommodate fans and fighters.
Silva initially expressed disdain about a potential move to Las Vegas, but eventually agreed to take the fight at a different venue, given it still unfolds in Brazil. It seems this is a champion eager to erase a questionable performance against the outspoken challenger.
White today revealed some new, yet unsolidified plans for UFC 147. The event will also feature another marquee middleweight rematch between “The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil” coaches Wanderlei Silva and Vitor Belfort. In addition, the event is scheduled for June 23, though a host city and official venue have yet to be determined.
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