• UFC Rio

Ross Pearson matched with Edson Barboza at UFC Rio

ESPN staff
April 19, 2011
Ross Pearson is coming off a victory over Spencer Fisher © Getty Images
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Ross Pearson's wait for an opponent is over, after the UFC handed him unbeaten Brazilian Edson Barboza at UFC Rio.

Pearson recently told ESPN that he has been waiting by the phone ready for his next rival, after defeating Spencer Fisher by decision at UFC 127.

The UFC has now confirmed that Pearson will take on Barboza in front of the Brazilian's home fans, on what promises to be one of the most stacked cards of the year. Barboza is coming off a Fight of the Night victory over Anthony Njokuani.

"Verbal agreements are in place for a big match on August 27 in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil," confirmed Dana White. "Unbeaten Brazilian Edson Barboza takes on Ultimate Fighter 9 winner Ross The Real Deal Pearson."

Pearson commented: "I am very excited to fight in Brazil. I've already fought in Las Vegas, Sydney and now I am fighting in Rio.

"Being a UFC fighter means you are one of the best in the world and you fight the best in the world all over the world each fight. It's a great match for me against a guy who's got a great reputation. Barboza likes to have a war and so do I, I think we can put on the fight of the night."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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