A few days ago, it was reported that Antonio "Minotauro" Nogueira pulled out of his re-match against Frank Mir in September due to sustained injuries in training. Reports are now saying that he needs knee surgery and hip surgery. It's unfortunate, as both Mir and Nogueira were looking forward to this re-match, to settle it once and for all. It might still happen down the road, but we'll just have to wait a little bit longer. A speedy recovery is wished to Nogueira, and hopefully we see him back in action soon.

However, a new opponent needed to be found for the former heavyweight champion to square off against in September. Mirko CroCop stepped up to headline alongside Frank Mir. The two will meet at UFC 119 in September (still). It's a really interesting fight, and pivotal to both of their careers. CroCop is coming off of a great submission victory over up-and-comer Pat Barry, whereas Mir is coming off of a KO loss to Shane Carwin.

A win over Mir for CroCop would prove he still has fights left in him, and that he's not "over-the-hill". Mir is still a very dangerous fighter for a lot of fighters in the division, so CroCop beating him convincingly would catapult him to the top.

A win for Mir over CroCop would put another veteran of the sport under his belt and instill some confidence into him. Even though he hasn't looked like he had in Pride, CroCop is also a very dangerous opponent. Frank Mir doesn't have the best striking, so he's going to have to watch really tighten up his game for this fight.

I think it's a win-able fight for both of them. If CroCop can keep it standing and pick Mir apart, and eventually land a flush shot, he could take the W home. If Mir can turn it into a grappling match, he'll have a clear advantage. On the other hand, if CroCop fears Mir's take downs as much as Kongo did, maybe Mir's slightly above average striking game will catch him off guard. It's going to be an interesting fight for sure. September can't come soon enough!