[bears9]

In just over a month, Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou (4-1 MMA, 0-0 UFC) will officially make his UFC debut.
Confirming the rumors reported earlier in the week (see: UFC in Talks with Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou), Sokoudjou — “The African Assassin” — will officially be facing Lyoto Machida (11-0 MMA, 3-0 UFC) at UFC 79.


The news comes from Thomas Gerbasi at UFC.com. In the article, Gerbasi got Machida’s thoughts on his upcoming opponent:

“I’m looking very forward to this fight,” said Machida. “I know Sokoudjou doesn’t have a lot of fights, but the fights he’s had are big, and he has beaten some very big names in this sport. I think this is going to be a great fight, and I am looking forward to winning this fight, and to moving on and fighting for the UFC title.“

Sokoudjou, a 2001 U.S. Open Judo champion, defeated the heavily favored Antonio Rogerio Nogueira at PRIDE 33. The 23-second knockout was followed up with a two-minute KO of Ricardo Arona at PRIDE 34.
The 23-year-old Team Quest fighter had verbally agreed to a contract with Elite Xtreme Combat this summer but backed out of the deal in July. He then appeared to be headed to the Tokyo-based K-1 Hero’s organization, but that deal also fell apart soon after.

Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou to Debut vs Machida at UFC 79

[EmpireWF]

This is a big signing (no pun intended) for the heavyweight division. That fight at UFC 79 is another big one for the card. I'm looking forward to it.

[bears9]

Originally Posted by EmpireWF

This is a big signing (no pun intended) for the heavyweight division. That fight at UFC 79 is another big one for the card. I'm looking forward to it.

No kidding with guy and Lesnar UFC is doing its best to make up for Couture and UFC 79 is looking like it is up there with UFC 73 for event ever