Matt Brown is finally getting the chance to fight at home in Ohio.
Brown (23-18) was originally expected to compete in Columbus, OH in March of 2020. Unfortunately, the coronavirus pandemic would eventually scrap the entire event. With the promotion finally returning to the city for a Fight Night show expected on March 26, “The Immortal” is on the card — and set to face off with Bryan Barberena (16-8).
MMA Fighting was first to report the news, which Brown subsequently confirmed on social media, adding the hashtag “bloodbath.”
Brown last competed against Dhiego Lima in June, snapping a two-fight skid with a second-round KO of the Brazilian. Prior to that win, Brown had dropped bouts against Carlos Condit and Miguel Baeza.
Turning 41 in just a matter of days, “The Immortal” is one of the most experienced welterweights on the UFC roster, and will look to build off his Performance of the Night showing against Lima.
Barberena is also coming off a win, back in December against Darian Weeks. “Bam Bam” was supposed to fight Matt Brown that night, but a positive COVID-19 test from Brown scrapped the bout. Luckily, the stars have aligned, and they’ll get another chance to face off come March.
The UFC’s March 26 event is expected to take place in Columbus, Ohio at the Nationwide Arena, although the coronavirus pandemic could still play a factor. To date, the following bouts have been reported for the card:
Jan Blachowicz vs. Aleksandar Rakic
Michelle Waterson vs. Amanda Ribas
Seung Woo Choi vs. Tucker Lutz
Askar Askarov vs. Kai Kara-France
Sara McMann vs. Karol Rosa
Danaa Batgerel vs. Montel Jackson
Matt Brown vs. Bryan Barberena
