Chris Weidman's First UFC Title Defense Set For Early Summer In Las Vegas

According to a report from ESPN, UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman will likely be facing Vitor Belfort around early summer and in Las Vegas.

ESPN reports that UFC CEO Lorenzo Fertitta is expecting Weidman to defend his title against Belfort in May or June and most likely in Las Vegas. This, of course, will be interesting to see as Nevada State Athletic Commission executive director Keith Kizer has expressed doubts as to Belfort's ability to earn a therapeutic use exemption for testosterone replacement therapy.

Belfort – who tested positive for steroids in Nevada back in 2006 – has become the center of the controversy surrounding TRT. The MMA veteran has posted three stellar wins this year, but has done so out of the country under a dubious regulatory body. This bout will be the first time that Belfort has competed in the US since 2011, but he told ESPN that he's confident he'll receive the necessary clearance to fight.

"I'm able to fight anywhere," Belfort said. "I have done everything by the book. Everybody knows that people cheat, but I don't. I'm very open and very loyal to my principles."

The news that Belfort will be fighting in Vegas will likely be welcomed by those in opposition of TRT in the sport, as the NSAC has been known to administer rigorous pre-fight tests – especially to those with a history of steroid usage.