Franklin to Headline versus Kampmann in June
The next chapter in Rich Franklin's (Pictures) quest to regain the UFC middleweight crown will unfold on June 16 Sherdog.com has learned, when "Ace" faces Martin Kampmann (Pictures) in the main event of UFC's first foray into Ireland.
In his return to the Octagon after losing the belt to Anderson Silva, the 32-year-old Franklin easily stopped Jason MacDonald (Pictures) in early March. On that same card Kampmann, 24, endured Drew McFedries' power before winning by arm-triangle choke.
Having won each of his three UFC contests, the Dane (15-2-0) gets a chance to prove he belongs among the best at 185 when he steps in against Franklin (21-2-0, 1 NC; 8-1 in the UFC).
It's expected Zuffa will officially announce the fight during Thursday's UFC Fight Night telecast from Las Vegas on SpikeTV.
Also, a fight between Forrest Griffin (Pictures) and Hector Ramirez (Pictures) is being discussed.
Since they have already said they are setting up Franklin-Silva II, this is probably the toughest fight they can give Franklin where he has little chance of losing. I expect this to go to a decision as Kampmann has never been stopped and has a solid chin. Should be a good fight.
On a side note, Griffin-Ramirez should be a good fight too if it happens. Griffin would be a rightfuly favorite, but Ramirez has solid striking with heavy hands. It's a shame to see them already planning a step down for Griffin when his fight with Machida has not happened yet.


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