Ed Soares was as proud as can be in the post-fight press conference at UFC 102. With client and friend Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira a few feet away giving interviews about his victory over Randy Couture at Saturday's event in Portland, Ore., it was a good night for the manager.Next to Rodrigo was twin brother Rogerio, a pint smaller than former Pride and UFC heavyweight champion. Rodrigo promised "Lil' Nog" was UFC bound in the pre-fight buildup, and while Soares said the deal wasn't done, it was all but certain to see the light heavyweight Nogueira in the cage by year's end.
"He's gonna be with the UFC," said Soares. "I don’t know when he’s going to fight. I believe he’s going to fight by the end of the year. They haven't announced anything, but Nogueira said it in the press conference.
"The deal's not completely finalized, but Dana and I shook on it already, so the deal's done, we're just working out the details."
The characteristically tight-lipped Soares did not mention any potential opponents for Rogerio. There are, however, a multitude of tough match-ups waiting. All that's left is the details.
