Big John McCarthy to Return to the Octagon for UFC on Versus 2 From MMA Fighting: Famed mixed martial arts referee "Big" John McCarthy will return to the UFC's octagon for the first time since 2007 when he oversees action during the upcoming UFC on Versus 2 show. McCarthy's wife Elaine confirmed to MMA Fighting that he has been assigned by the California State Athletic Commission to officiate matches at the event, which takes place on Sunday at the San Diego Sports Arena in San Diego, Calif.
With Joe Stevenson reportedly suffering a knee injury in training, Tyson Griffin will now step in to face Takanori Gomi at UFC on Versus 2 in San Diego on August 1st, according to Dave Meltzer. UFC on Versus 2 coverage HT: RagingNoodles
Shooto 154-pound world champion Willamy "Chiquerim" Freire (17-2) has signed with the UFC and will debut on August 1st against Thiago Tavares (14-3-1), according to manager Andre Pederneiras. Source: Gracie Mag Photo: Sherdog UFC on Versus 2 coverage
During the post-fight presser, Dana White announced that a second "UFC on Versus" show will happen on August 1, in Oakland. Also announced were four guys with $50,000 bonuses. Clay Guida gets 'Submission of the Night' and Jon Jones, John Howard and Junior Dos Santos all get 'KO of the Night' Honors. Attendance 6,443 -- Gate $568,125