As previously announced, Thiago Alves’ next bout will come against Diego Sanchez, although the date has changed. Originally set for UFC 89, the fight has been pushed back a week and will take place at UFC 90 in Chicago, Illinois.

Alves has been on a roll and will come into the fight not having lost in over two years. His name really catapulted up into the mainstream after he throughly dominated Matt Hughes back at UFC 85. Sanchez is looking to build upon his back-to-back wins which came on the heels of back-to-back losses, the only two of his career.

Mmajunkie.com goes on to report that an Anderson Silva title defense could also take place at UFC 90, assuming he still has the title. Actually, that may be a very safe assumption. Patrick Cote’s name keeps surfacing as a possible challenger.

UFC fans could be receiving an October cable bill that is free from pay pay-per-view charges, assuming no skin flicks make their way onto the late night TV agenda. Reports from Dave Meltzer’s newsletter have leaked information that UFC 89 could air for fee on Spike TV. The event will take place in Birmingham, England and will feature a main event between Chris Leben and Michael Bisping.

The strength, or lack thereof, of the October 18th card may be one of the reasons the UFC is considering the free telecast. However, in light of all the recent mma events put on by various organizations, it might not be such a bad idea to toss UFC fans a bone. Thiago Alves is also set to fight on the undercard in a match-up against Diego Sanchez. UK standout Dan “The outlaw” Hardy will also be part of the undercard.

It might be a bit too brash to say the UFC could put on a live event that shouldn’t require a viewing fee. Time and time again, the organization has put out quality events with top notch performances featuring the best fighters in the game. But that does not mean the UFC’s loyal following shouldn’t be treated to a free event every now and then. Even if the UFC takes a slight hit in the wallet, a free event such as this would ensure a stellar revenue for UFC 90.