• UFC 138

Alves admits Ellenberger matchup would be 'great fight'

Thiago Alves labelled a potential future battle with Jake Ellenberger a "great fight", but admits he is more than happy for the UFC to map out his future in 2012.

Alves bounced back from defeat to Rick Story with a first round stoppage of Papy Abedi, inflicting a maiden defeat on the UFC newcomer. The Brazilian's rear naked choke was his first submission victory since moving to the UFC.

Now Alves plans to continue the rebuilding job on his career, having previously lost three of his last four fights. At 28 years of age the Pitbull is still relatively young, but he knows he needs to build momentum if he is to get a second shot at the title.

Standing within 10 yards of Alves whilst he spoke to ESPN was Jake Ellenberger, who recently knocked out Jake Shields, and Alves confessed that matchup would be tempting.

"That would be a great fight," he said to ESPN. "But like I said, whoever Joe Silva wants me to fight, I'm ready for it.

"I know I'm a few fights away from title contention, so whoever brings me closer - I'm ready."

Asked how much he knew of Abedi, Alves admitted he had to work mostly off reputation. However, after a watchful opening the Brazilian quickly spotted a hole in the Swede's game.

"Fights last 15 minutes so you've got time to figure it out," Alves explained. "Every time he threw the left hand I realised he was dropping so it was just a matter of time that I threw the right hand over the top.

"I knew he was a huge guy dropping from 185, with a southpaw stance and a judo black belt. From Sweden you've got to be a good striker so that's what I prepared for."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.