David Branch v. Ronaldo “Jacare” Souza set for MSG’s UFC 230

An interesting rivalry has been quietly developing in the UFC. Under the bright lights of New York City, it will finally be showcased to the entire world. David Branch has agreed to face “Jacare” Souza at UFC 230. ESPN was the first to report the news.

After losing Robert Whittaker v. Kelvin Gastelum due to injuries sustained by the former, the UFC knew they needed at least one fight to entice fans. Two of the top middleweights duking it out can help that cause.

Branch (22-4), fighting out of Brooklyn, NY, won his last bout against Thiago Santos at UFC Fight Night 128 in Atlantic City, NJ. It was a major rebound after losing to Luke Rockhold at UFC Fight Night 116. This is his second run with the UFC after leaving in 2011. Since then, he won two titles for the World Series of Fighting promotion.

A win against Branch can help Souza (25-6 (1)) in a major way. Over his last six fights, the 38-year old is 3-3, his last bout a split-decision loss to Kelvin Gastelum at May’s UFC 224. The former Strikeforce Middleweight Champion, if healthy, is looking to put on a show against the younger (two-year difference) Branch.

UFC 230 takes place on November 3. Ticket information for the event has not been announced yet.