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By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief
UFC Fight Night 24 has a headliner, as MMAJunkie.com reports that the Tito Ortiz vs. Antonio Rogerio Nogueira bout, originally thought to be taking place at UFC 128, will main event the March 26 card.
In addition to the headliner, the MMAJunkie report states that the event is expected to take place from Seattle, Wash.
The card will be the UFC's first event in the state, and though no venue has been determined, it is likely to take place at the KeyArena. The venue has a capacity of 17,000 spectators.
Ortiz is getting one final shot to pick up a win in the UFC, as he has posted a 0-4-1 mark since 2006. Most recently he lost a decision to Matt Hamill at UFC 121 in October.
Nogueira is looking to bounce back from a loss himself, as he was defeated by Ryan Bader by decision at UFC 119 in September. That loss snapped a seven fight win streak.
Penick's Analysis: With Ortiz's current contract, having him headline this event brings down their overall payroll for the UFC 128 card in New Jersey, and still puts a bigger name on free television. With his 0-4-1 record over the last four years, it was probably best not to make people pay for this fight. For Nogueira, a win will keep him near the top of the heap in the light heavyweight division, although it will just be treading water. But this fight is huge for Ortiz, as a loss likely puts an end to his UFC tenure for good. Meanwhile, a win will snap a four year winless streak and allow him to continue fighting in the organization and continue to make the money he's commanding with his current contract.
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Jamie Penick, editor-in-chief
(mmatorcheditor@gmail.com)
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