Former welterweight title challenger Thiago Alves is hoping to return to the Octagon by December of 2014. Also looking to get back to fighting by the end of the year is ranked Lightweight, Michael Johnson.

UFC Tonight’s Ariel Helwani shared the news on tonight’s episode of UFC Tonight.

Alves was initially set to face Jordan Mein this weekend at UFC Fight Night 49 in Tusla, O.K. He was forced to pull out of the fight due to injury. Mein now faces Mike Pyle at the event, following some card shuffles and several injuries. He would like to fight the winner of Mein vs. Pyle.

Johnson last fought and defeated former UFC fighter Melvin Guillard last March at UFC Fight Night 37 in London, England, headlined by Light Heavyweight #1 contender Alexander Gustafsson vs. ranked Light Heavyweight Jimi Manuwa.

Johnson had shoulder surgery two weeks ago and is now recovering.

More news soon.