Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira has never backed down from a challenge and has always faced the best possible competition that MMA could offer in the heavyweight division.  His resume is one of the most impressive in the sport, flaunting a grocery list of respectable opponents like Fedor Emelianenko, Josh Barnett, Mirko CroCop, Frank Mir, Tim Sylvia, Mark Coleman, Semmy Schilt, Heath Herring, Bob Sapp, Sergei Kharitonov, Ricco Rodriguez, Fabricio Werdum, and most recently, Randy Couture.  Come to think of it, the list would be much shorter and tidier had I referenced the relevant heavyweights that he hasn't fought. Post-102, after reestablishing his prestigious reputation with an extremely convincing win over Couture, Nogueira is calling to face the UFC heavyweight champion, Brock Lesnar.  Speaking with MMAWeekly, Nogueira relayed his thoughts on what his next step was:

"I like big fights like that.  I'll be ready if they gave me a good opponent.  It would be my pleasure, but if they gave me a title shot, it would be awesome."

Big Nog also addressed what the fight between he and Brock might entail:

"A lot of jiu-jitsu and good standing up, make him tired man, move around, move around.  When I get his timing, hit him with a good right hand and box him, box him and get him tired.  If he goes on the top into my guard, I can play with him.  Let's see, let's see what is going to happen." 

 "Let's see", indeed.  Before Nogueira quelled any doubts and authenticated his previous stature with his invigorating dismantlement of Couture, I had speculated Gabriel Gonzaga to pose the biggest threat to Brock, being another huge heavyweight (6'2", 250+ lbs), but with phenomenal BJJ credentials and a highly evolving and effective stand-up arsenal.  Even though Nogueira has an inch in height on Gonzaga and only weighs about ten pounds less, he lacks the physically imposing strength and style of Gonzaga. However, now, with the "old" Nogueira apparently taking the helm once again, he represents the best submission fighter in the history of MMA.  Yes, better than Aoki, Maia, Sakuraba, and even Fedor.  No other fighter has been as succesful at the highest level of MMA like Nogueira has using a submission-based MMA style.  His liquid-like technique serves as the perfect antidote to Lesnar's bestial wrestling and brutal top-game, as Nogueira is most dangerous when placed in the exact position that Lesnar prefers his opponent to be in:  on their back.  Even if Nogueira is unable to submit Lesnar, I can't remember the last fighter that he was unable to sweep. Additionally, Nogueira's boxing is still improving.  Not only did his combinations look crisper and tighter, but he seemed to be dialing in some power to his strikes versus Couture, a trait he seemed not to possess in the past.  And, as difficult as it is to replicate or count on, Nogueira has made a name for himself by withstanding unreal punishment only to secure a submission for a dramatic victory. Show me where to sign to put this fight in the works.  Although Nogueira is 3-1 in the UFC, he's only racked up one win after losing to Mir, so he may likely have to battle his way through another contender or two before contesting for the title.

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