One man could stand between the winner of Bisping vs. Silva and a shot at UFC gold
by Giada Esposito on February 11, 2010
who fits the bill as an opponent for the winner of the Bisping vs. Silva showdown perfectly. 

Yoshihiro "Sexyama" Akiyama is a superstar in his home country of Japan, as well as South Korea, where his family traces its roots. A former Asian Judo champion, Akiyama has been very successful since transitioning to MMA, with a career record of 13-1-2 and only one fight lasting to a decision.

Akiyama is currently riding a 14-fight unbeaten streak, and was successful in his UFC debut with a victory over Alan Belcher which earned him "Fight of the Night" honors. Akiyama was originally scheduled to face Silva at UFC 110, but that match-up was scrapped in favor of the more appealing Bisping vs. Silva bout.

Indeed, a fight between Akiyama and the winner of Bisping vs. Silva now appears to be in the works, according to Fighters Only Magazine. Apparently, a Japanese venue for the fight is also being considered, marking the first time the UFC would return to Japan since its UFC: Japan event in 1997. Akiyama would be a huge draw to Japanese and Korean fans should this fight take place, as would Silva if he should emerge victorious from UFC 110, given his legendary status in Pride.

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 |  (17) Comments Mtx: Good article, and yes, the MW picture is now a mess all over again. Thank you Nate. I like your idea of a Silva/Bisping winner against Sexyama, but this may take a bit too long. Maia's injury is not helping either, cause one more win could put him in title contention for sure. There not one fighter now that really stands out, and the only one that seems nearly possible is Sonnen. Although I don't like him, his 3 winning streak and his recent performance against Nate may be all he needs to get a title shot. I wouldn't complain much, especially if he gets his head cut off during the fight. D_V: sexyama ftw arlovskiviako: I will guarantee the UFC will not be in Japan within the next few years. HackBennys: Excuse me for my ignorance on this, but how is he riding a 14 fight winning streak if he's 13-1-2? Was one of his fights an unsactioned bout, or a 2 rounder? I'd much rather see him fight Silva, but Dana probably wants to protect him, and I understand that. thug4less: Jade, WTF! That's the picture I posted in the Random Hotties thread! I'm flattered! :)
HOW WILL THE THIAGO ALVES VS. MARTIN KAMPMANN FIGHT END AT UFC ON FX 2?
Alves def. Kampmann via TKO/KO
Alves def. Kampmann via submission
Alves def. Kampmann via decision
Kampmann def. Alves via TKO/KO
Kampmann def. Alves via submission
Kampmann def. Alves via decision
TAKE ANOTHER POLL!