Urijah Faber ready to become champion, again | News

CALGARY, CANADA - After losing out on winning the UFC Featherweight Title, Sacramento's Urijah Faber decided to remake himself into a lighter and faster version of the "California Kid". And Saturday night, he will get his second chance to win the UFC Bantamweight Title at the Saddledome in Calgary, Canada.

Faber was supposed to fight the champion Dominick Cruz for a third  time. Faber beat Cruz more than five years ago, only to lose a close decision last July. But during the airing of The Ultimate Fighter, Cruz injured his knee and had to step down, giving Faber (26-5) a chance to win the interim title against Renan Barao.

"Being the interim champ means a lot to me," Faber said Thursday at the UFC 149 press conference. "It's the symbolism of the belt. It means being the best, and that means everything to me. That's why I do this."

Faber will face a Barao who comes into the fight with an impressive (30-1-1) record and a 17 fight win streak including 5-straight in the UFC and WEC combined.

"I remember my first opportunity and was super excited and motivated," said Faber. "I expect the same from him (Barao), I don't think there will be any excuses when we do battle, it is going to be a war."

UFC 149 is Saturday night from a sold out Saddledome in Calgary, Canada. The fight card can be seen on PPV beginning at 7 p.m. PT