John Dodson welcomes Jussier "Formiga" da Silva at UFC on FX 5 in Minneapolis

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

An extremely exciting flyweight bout is heading to Minneapolis this October, as Shooto's South American Flyweight Champion, Jussier "Formiga" da Silva, will make his UFC debut against Ultimate Fighter 14 winner John Dodson at UFC on FX 5.

News of the bout was first reported by Tatame.com.

Da Silva, who signed with the UFC earlier this month, makes his debut on a five fight winning streak, a run that includes four straight submission wins. The 27-year-old is 14-1 overall in his career, with his sole loss coming by decision against Ian McCall in Tachi Palace Fights.

Dodson will bring a four fight winning streak into the bout, two of which have come inside of the Octagon. After knocking out T.J. Dillashaw in his TUF season's finals bout, Dodson added a decision win over Tim Elliott at UFC on Fox 3 in May.

UFC on FX 5 takes place from the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minn. on October 5, headlined by a heavyweight bout between Travis Browne and Antonio "Bigfoot" Silva.

Penick's Analysis: This is a fantastic fight, and is almost assuredly going to be on the FX main card for this event. Dodson's status as an Ultimate Fighter winner, who hasn't yet lost in the UFC, makes that clear, and it gives da Silva a major opportunity to make a splash in his debut. He could be a very formidable force in the flyweight division, and a title challenger sooner than later if he impresses against Dodson. Likewise, Dodson can continue making his name as a contender should he best a very respected flyweight in da Silva. Great matchmaking, and a great fight for this card.

Arman Gambaryan Manvel Gamburyan Sean Gannon Edgar Garcia Leonard Garcia