(Kimbo Slice landing an uppercut on James Thompson)
Despite a variety of rumors the proposed bout between Kevin “Kimbo Slice”
Ferguson and Matt Mitrione was made official for UFC 113 today by the
promotion. The card will take place on May 8 at the Bell Centre in Montreal.
Over the last two weeks rumors have circulated that the bout could be moved or
even broken up. The UFC is planning to counter program the April 17 Strikeforce
show and this bout was supposedly set to be added to a card on that date. Also,
with the signing of professional boxer James Toney, Kimbo Slice was widely
rumored as an opponent.
Ferguson will be making his pay per view debut. After three fights under the
Elite XC banner, the former street fighter signed on to become a cast member of
“The Ultimate Fighter: Heavyweights.” On the show eventually champion Roy
Nelson eliminated him in the first round. Kimbo Slice made his UFC debut on the
show’s finale card, and took a decision victory over veteran Houston Alexander.
Mitrione took part in the reality show despite having never fought as a
professional. Prior to coming to MMA, he had competed as a professional
football player. On the show he defeated Scott Junk in the first round but lost
his next match. After the show he made his professional and promotion debut
against Marcus Jones and won by knockout.
In the main event of UFC 113 light heavyweight champion Lyoto Machida will
defend his title against Mauricio “Shogun” Rua. The two fought to a decision in
2009. Machida successfully defended his belt, but the judges’ verdict was
considered controversial.
