Before Jon Jones steps into the octagon to challenge Mauricio Rua tonight at UFC 128, we'll be treated to free fights on Spike TV, and Facebook. Beginning at 9 pm ET, Spike TV will be airing two live preliminary fights. Eliot Marshall returns to the UFC on short notice to take on Luiz Cane, and Anthony Njokuani meets Edson Barboza in two exciting bouts.
Marshall was a cast member on season eight of The Ultimate Fighter, but was cut from the UFC when he dropped a split decision to Vladimir Matyushenko. The move came as a shock, as Marshall had won three straight fights inside the UFC prior to the loss. Marshall is a late replacement for Karlos Vemola, but assures fans that he'll pressure Cane, and make his return to the UFC a permanent one, with a victory tonight.
3-3 in the UFC, Luiz Cane is looking to use his heavy hands to secure his job in the UFC. Before losing back to back fights against Rogerio Nogueira and Cyrille Diabate, Cane was on a three fight winning streak, beating Jason Lambert, Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou, and Steve Cantwell. Cane is going to attempt to avoid the ground at all costs, and score an impressive knock out, taking advantage of the late replacement of opponent.
Anthony Njokuani vs. Edson Barboza:
Njokuani earned a 4-3 record in the WEC, and is now looking to kick start his UFC career against Barboza. Njokuani is known for his kick boxing, which secured him wins against multiple opponents throughout his career. Most recently, he won at WEC 52 against Edward Faaloloto, scoring a second round TKO.
The undefeated Edson Barboza made his UFC debut at UFC 123, and impressed as he won via TKO by leg kicks. That was in fact, his second leg kick TKO in a row. Needless to say, Barboza is a vicious muay thai fighter, and will look to match Njokuani blow for blow during their fight tonight. Without a doubt, this will serve as a fitting lead in to another exciting night of UFC action, live on pay per view.