10 Things You Need To Know Ahead Of UFC 213
With two title fights and plenty to keep the MMA fan entertained, here's what UFC 213 has in store.
International Fight Week is upon us. Every July, the mixed martial arts world descends on Las Vegas for UFC's version of WrestleMania weekend. While it lacks the pyro and ballyhoo that makes WWE's jamboree such an annual spectacular, it follows some similar trends, including finishing with what has traditionally been the biggest pay-per-view of the year.
UFC 213 has become a bit of a victim of circumstances this year. Because of various factors, it doesn't look like even being the biggest pay-per-view in July, what with UFC 214's excellent card in three weeks. But with two title fights almost an annual staple, the women will take centre stage again for the second year in a row. While that came around accidentally last year due to Jon Jones being a scoundrel, it's very much deliberate this time. Valentina Shevchenko looks to avenge her loss last March to Amanda Nunes and claim the bantamweight title.
With an interim middleweight title fight rounding out a solid main card, there's plenty to look forward to. But the pay-per-view itself isn't the only event this weekend. Here's everything you need to keep an eye on.
10. The Hall Of Fame Ceremony Takes Place On Thursday
UFC have never been too shy to hide the fact that pro wrestling influences a lot of their decision making. So what would their version of WWE's annual spectacular be without a Hall of Fame ceremony?
The inductions this year are highlighted by Urijah Faber. While Faber never captured gold in the Octagon, he is one of the biggest reasons UFC finally introduced the lighter weight divisions. He had a stellar run in the WEC, holding the featherweight championship. While his run in UFC seemed to be a story of being too good for the chasing pack, but not quite good enough to win the title, Faber was still a big star.
Long time matchmaker Joe Silva will also be inducted after stepping down at the end of 2016. Long overlooked, the role is crucial to ensuring the long term success of the promotion, and no-one was better than Silva, who'll receive a well deserved honour.
With former heavyweight champion Maurice Smith and Japanese wrestling and MMA legend Kazushi Sakuraba also getting the call, it'll be great seeing some pioneers of the sport being recognised for their contributions.