Michael Bisping vs. Brian Stann Expected Later this Year

UFC middleweight contender Michael Bisping wanted a fight with Anderson Silva or a top contender, but will instead have to settle for Brian Stann.

The middleweight clash will take place on the main card at UFC 152 in September at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto, Canada.

Bipsing has called out Silva, Alan Belcher, Chris Weidman, and Stann alike — and was given a tough but winnable fight in Stann.

Prior to the fight announcement, Bisping had bold words for Stann: “Brian Stann, you’re going to get your ass kicked.” Shortly after the interview, Stann accepted Bisping’s challenge, but the UFC waited a few days before making it official.

The heavy-handed American will look to keep the fight standing, while Bisping is likely a better technical boxer and a significantly better grappler. I think Bisping will be able to out wrestle Stann towards a decision, as the British fighter will be able to avoid Stann’s heavy hands.

Bisping desperately seeks a chance to compete for the middleweight championship, though a victory against Stann likely doesn’t lead him to a title shot. Bisping doesn’t have the skill set to best Silva, but he remains one of the most talented middleweights in the UFC.