By FCF Staff

Antonio Rogerio Nogueira is returning to the Octagon for the first time in over a year tonight at UFC 190, and the veteran fighter is doing so for a “very special” bout.

Nogueira will be fighting Mauricio “Shogun” Rua for the second time, as the two battled way back in 2005, in what was one of PRIDE’s most memorable fights. The latter went on to win the thrilling encounter via unanimous decision.

The 39 year-old Nogueira recently spoke to UFC.com about tonight’s contest, and while reflecting on his first bout with Rua, “Lil Nog” stated this:

“It’s going to be very special,” Nogueira said. “It’s my first time I’m going to fight here in my city in the UFC. We fought a good fight in Japan, which was also a very special place for us, but I think now, for me, it’s going to be the best time to make a good fight. I’m going to fight with a lot of my family and friends there and it’s going to be a very good opportunity, For sure, I’m very excited.”

Nogueira (21-6) is coming off a quick, stoppage loss to Anthony Johnson last July, after defeating Tito Ortiz and Rashad Evans in consecutive bouts. Rua (22-10) was also KO’d in his last outing, as Ovince Saint Preux finish him in November.

UFC 190 will be hosted by the HSBC Arena in Rio de Janeiro.