Raphael Assuncao (23-4) is perhaps a bit unfortunate to be shut out of the title picture given his 7-0 record at bantamweight, which includes a win over the reigning champion T.J. Dillashaw. Assuncao declined a title fight with Renan Barao at UFC 173 to heal a rib injury, which paved the way for Dillashaw to come in and take the belt away in unforgettable fashion. Assuncao was denied the next crack as the UFC chose to book an immediate rematch, and instead fought Bryan Caraway to a unanimous decision victory in October.

Despite the win, Assuncao wasn't the #1 contender, as Dominick Cruz's smashing of Takeya Mizugaki put him in position to take on Dillashaw. Instead, Cruz wound up injured again, and then Assuncao broke his ankle, leaving us with the 3rd attempt at Dillashaw vs. Barao 2 this July.

According to Ariel Helwani on UFC Tonight, Assuncao's ankle is healed up and he's cleared to compete, but he's not preparing for a particular opponent. Instead, he is making sure he's ready to fill in for either Barao or Dillashaw should one of them withdraw from the UFC on FOX 16 main event. That doesn't necessarily mean he won't be booked for the next two months, but it's something to keep an eye on if Assuncao can get the opportunity to compete for the title. Of course, if Dillashaw pulls out then the UFC would have to determine if an interim title is necessary, but if Barao is out then it's a no-brainer that Assuncao would slot in nicely as a new challenger while keeping the rematch storyline going.