A highly-anticipated bout between two lightweight contenders looks like it will take place early next year.

MMA Junkie reported early Monday morning that Anthony “Showtime” Pettis vs. Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone is on tap for the UFC’s Jan. 26 show, which will likely be UFC on FOX 6.

Rumors swirled that the two former WEC lightweight champions, who never crossed paths in the defunct promotion, would meet at UFC 150 in August. However, Pettis opted to get surgery for a nagging shoulder injury in the summer, causing the bout to be scrapped.

After winning four straight fights in the Octagon 2011, Cowboy lost a lop-sided decision to current number one contender Nate Diaz. However, the Greg Jackson’s MMA fighter has since rebounded with wins over Jeremy Stephens and Melvin Guillard.

Meanwhile, Pettis had his UFC debut spoiled when he was outwrestled by perennial contender Clay Guida at “The Ultimate Fighter 13 Finale” in June of last year. Since then, the 25-year-old has racked up wins over Stephens and Joe Lauzon.

Pettis is the last fighter to defeat current UFC light champion Benson Henderson, earning a close decision victory largely on the strength of his “Showtime Kick” off the cage at WEC 53, which took place in Dec. 2010.

“Bendo” has since went on to win five straight in the Octagon and is also 2-0 against Cerrone from their WEC days.

Who wins this pivotal 155-pound match up that could easily determine the next title contender within the division?