Report: Strikeforce’s Scott Coker Says “Jacare” Souza Could Earn Rematch With Luke Rockhold Saturday
By FCF Staff
While much of the spotlight has been focused on the headliner between bantamweight champ Ronda Rousey and Sarah Kaufman, heading into Strikeforce’s latest event tomorrow night, the card also features a notable middleweight bout. Former champion Ronaldo “Jacare” Souza will take on rising middleweight Derek Brunson on the main card, in a bout which could determine who will challenge champion Luke Rockhold next.
Strikeforce CEO Scott Coker reportedly relayed to MMA Junkie yesterday that Rockhold wasn’t happy with the unanimous decision win he scored over Souza last September, and is hoping to face the renowned fighter again. Coker proceeded to say that if Souza defeats Brunson then a rematch is likely.
After Souza (15-3) lost the belt to Rockhold in September, the 32 year-old-fighter went on to submit Bristol Marunde with a third round, arm-triangle-choke in March. Prior to facing Rockhold, Souza had won four straight fights.
Rockhold (10-1) has defended his title twice since facing Souza, by scoring a stoppage win over Keith Jardine and most recently earning a UD victory over Tim Kennedy.
Standing in Souza’s way, of course, is Brunson (9-1), who is coming off a controversial, split decision loss to Kendall Grove at ShoFight 20 in June. Prior to the defeat, the All American, Division II wrestler had won three straight fights under the Strikeforce banner.
Saturday’s Strikeforce event will be hosted by San Diego’s Valley View Center Casino and will be broadcast on Showtime.