Originally Posted by Bomber

Gonzaga is not a can. He's easily #5 in the division, with a good chance to move up.

Why not Cro Cop vs Vera? Because as you mentioned, Vera could get lucky and take out the champion in waiting. Even if Vera loses but looks good, it ups his profile. The UFC is not going to do anything to increase Vera's marketability in a competitor's organization. His last match will likely be on the undercard and only shown if O'Brien wins.

Like you, I'd LOVE to see Mirko and Vera fight, but it's clear they won't any time soon.