Until yesterday, Brazilian heavyweight Junior Dos Santos expected to return to the Octagon against Stefan Struve on February 19 in Halifax. Regrettably, however, Struve was forced out of this planned scrap with an injury, which left Dos Santos without an opponent.

Still eager to fight in the near future, Dos Santos now has his eyes on two potential opponents. One is former champion Fabricio Werdum, who he knocked out back in 2008. The other is heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic, who he defeated by decision in 2014.

Dos Santos explained his desire for these fights in an interview with ESPN.com. His words:

“The right thing now would be for me to fight Werdum,” the stone-fisted heavyweight said. “Everybody knows there is a rivalry between us. That would be a great moment for everybody, but he doesn’t want the fight.”

“He knows he can’t have a good performance against me,” he continued. “I imagine he wants to keep his high rank, because then people will give him attention he really doesn’t deserve.”

“I hope the UFC finds me an opponent for Feb. 19, but if they don’t, I think the right thing would be me fighting Miocic for the title. Let’s get this division going.”

Finally, Dos Santos commented on the lack of movement occurring in the heavyweight division at the moment, seemingly alluding to the break from competition Miocic is currently enjoying.

“I’m just really upset about everything happening in this division right now,” he said. “It’s completely stopped. I’m in shape. I’m doing very well. I’m actually in one of the best times of my life. I’m looking forward to fighting again, but the UFC is allowing these guys to do whatever they want to do.” 

With Struve injured, who would you like to see Junior Dos Santos fight next? Sound off, PENN Nation!