Shortly after learning that he would not get his wished for fight against Wanderlei Silva, Chael Sonnen tweeted an inquiry to Rashad Evans regarding his plans on November 16:

@SugaRashadEvans Hey Rashad, let me ask you a question... You busy Nov 16th? — chael sonnen (@sonnench) August 30, 2013

Evans replied that his calendar seemed open for that evening:

For those unfamiliar, November 16 is the date of UFC 167, which just happens to be the 20th anniversary card for the UFC. Sonnen has made it very clear that he wants to be a part of the fight card, preferably in the co-main event slot. The main event that evening will see UFC welterweight champion Georges St-Pierre face top ranked challenger Johny Hendricks in a title fight.

Evans, appearing as a guest on Alchemist Radio, said of the potential fight with Sonnen, "That fight is going to happen."

The former UFC light heavyweight champion added:

We're still talking about it, but it's definitely something the UFC wants. It's something that we want to do well. If it does happen it will happen on November 16th. Hopefully it'll be in the co-main event slot. I definitely think its co-main event worthy.

Evans did not seem at all concerned about the fight affecting the friendship he and Sonnen have developed. At the same time, he did say that the two would not work together on any UFC broadcasts on Fox during the lead up to the fight card.

Evans (18-3-1) ended a two-fight losing streak at UFC 161, defeating Dan Henderson via split decision. Sonnen (29-13-1) also ended a two-fight skid in his last bout, submitting former UFC light heavyweight champion Mauricio "Shogun" Rua in the main event of UFC Fight Night 26.

Evans and Sonnen are both ranked in the top ten in the UFC's light heavyweight division. Evans is ranked at No. 5. Sonnen holds down the No. 9 spot.

UFC 167 will take place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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