Future Mixed Martial Arts Stars: Light Heavyweight Edition

Brandon "The Truth" Vera - 29 years old (DOB 10/10/1977)
I put Brandon Vera on both the Heavyweight and Light Heavyweight list for rising stars because he is that talented. In fact, I believe that Light Heavyweight is where Vera will truly shine. The Truth, who does not cut weight, is very small for a Heavyweight fighter. Especially considering that fighters such as Tim Sylvia have to cut weight to get under the maximum for the division, which is set at 265 lbs. It is only a matter of time before Vera is put against a Heavyweight fighter that is competent in striking and submissions and uses their size advantage to bully him around. A move down in weight to Light Heavyweight, a maximum weight limit of 205 lbs., would make the most sense for Vera. Very few fighters would be able to handle the striking and submission prowess that Brandon has. Vera also has the charisma and fearlessness to become one of the most popular fighters in the world.

Quinton "Rampage" Jackson - 29 years old (DOB 6/20/1978)
Sporting a record of 27-6 with notable wins over Igor Vovchanchyn, Kevin Randleman, Murilo Bustamante, Ricardo Arona, Matt Lindland and Chuck Liddell twice. His last fight with Chuck Liddell earned him the UFC Light Heavyweight belt in only his second fight in the UFC. Rampage has all the tools to be champion. His boxing is always improving and he has an iron chin able to withstand copious amounts of punishment. Quinton also is a very good wrestler and can slam people to the canvas with the best of them. Just ask Ricardo Arona, who Jackson picked up over his head in a power bomb type maneuver and slammed him to the floor, knocking him out in the process. If the slam doesn't knock you out, Quinton's ground and pound prowess surely will. In his first fight with Liddell, Rampage was able to take Chuck down and pound on his body eliciting groans from an exhausted Ice Man. With a renewed fire to fight and a good training camp to finally train with, I don't see why Quinton can't hold on to his title.