Matyushenko vs Brilz on Tap for UFC 122, in Germany

The UFC Belorussian Vladimir Matyushenko, who most recently re-signed a 4-fight deal with the UFC just a few days ago, is reportedly on tap to face fellow light heavyweight standout Jason Brilz this November, for UFC 122.

The event will take place in Germany for just the second time in the promotions history. The UFC’s original inception into Germany began last year, for UFC 99, which was headlined by former champions Wanderlei Silva and Rich Franklin who met at a catch weight of 195-pounds.

And while the event in of itself was an exciting night of fights, things behind the scenes did not fair so swimmingly. There’s was an almost immediate backlash the UFC took once the MMA Juggernaut was readying itself for it’s new venture. The German media didn’t take too kindly to the blood and violence that is rightfully and indirectly associated with the sport, and in doing so, had the Government and sanctioning bodies take notice. Their reaction–a ban on minors below the age of 17 were not allowed to attend said events.

Returning after a year-plus hiatus, the UFC will visit Oberhausen for UFC 122, no headline fight has been officially announced the preliminary reports indicate that Brilz and Matyushenko will be apart of the fight card. Jason may be remembered best for his highly controversial split-decision fight with Antonio Rogerio Nogueria, twin brother of former UFC and Pride champion Minotauro Nogueria. Brilz appeared to be ahead of the score cards, dominating the first two rounds with effective wrestling, scrambles, and strong hooks on the feet. Rogerio had his best moments of the fight in the third, but was still able to squeak out the narrow decision.

Matyushenko on the other hand, is not one who can be praised in defeat, well…not the defeat he suffered at the hands of the highly touted Jon Jones on August 1. The 39-year-old father was dominated from the get go, when Jones was able to take down the 10-plus year veteran, ended up in a mounted crucifix and landed repeated unanswered elbows to Vlad’s head before the bout was mercifully waived off.

It’s likely do or die for both competitors, as the sting of two defeats more often than not, doesn’t sit quite well with the UFC brass.

So, who do you have in this match up of competitive wrestlers? The old-dog Matyushenko–a perennial contender, or the spirited Jason Brilz?