Former Strikeforce champion Ronaldo “Jacare” Souza remained undefeated in the UFC on Saturday night in New Jersey as he defeated Chris Camozzi in the co-main event of UFC on FOX 15.
Camozzi was not the initial opponent for Jacare, as he was initially scheduled to meet top ten middleweight Yoel Romero. However, an injury forced Romero out of the fight last week and Camozzi took the fight on six days notice.
This is the second time that Jacare (22-3) has defeated Camozzi and just like in the first meeting, he submitted Camozzi in the first round. While Jacare is currently ranked as the number one contender in the UFC rankings, all signs are pointing to Luke Rockhold being the next title challenger.
Rockhold defeated Machida in the main event of Saturday night’s fight card and proclaimed he is the number one contender. Rockhold holds a victory over Jacare, but that fight took place a couple of years ago in Strikeforce. Jacare is undefeated in the UFC, while Rockhold was defeated by Vitor Belfort nearly two years ago.
During the UFC on FOX 15 Post Fight Press Conference, Jacare wanted to let everyone know that he is the number one contender and he should be getting the next title shot after Belfort.
“I believe 100 percent that it’s my time,” Jacare said. “I am the number one contender. I fought Luke a long time ago. Everyone knows that he did not beat me. The judges fight for him. I come for fight. I am ready for the title. This is my fifth fight in the UFC. I can finish anybody in my division. It’s my time.”
Before the next title challenger can be decided, the title fight between champion Chris Weidman and Vitor Belfort must take place. This is a fight that has been delayed multiple times and just like Rockhold, Jacare plans to stay in shape just in case something happens with either one of those fighters.