Strikeforce and UFC alum Roger Gracie has signed a multi-fight deal with ONE FC to compete in the light heavyweight division and the promotion has also announced the signing of six other fighters to exclusive contracts.
The signings were announced by ONE FC on Thursday and the other signings were Rafael Atilho, Warren De Reuck, Michal Pasternack, Timofey Nastyukhin, Igor Svirid, and Anatpong Bunrad.
Gracie (6-2) is a ten-time jiu-jitsu world champion and has not competed in mixed martial arts since losing to Tim Kennedy at UFC 162 last year. Prior to the defeat to Kennedy, he had won back to back fights including a submission win against Anthony Smith at the final Strikeforce event.
“I am proud to add 7 very talented international athletes to our world class ONE FC roster, said ONE FC VP of Operations Matt Hume. “These recent additions include undefeated fighters, Rafael Atilho of Brazil, Warren De Reuck of South Africa, and Michal Pasternack of Poland. Also world class champions Timofey Nastyukhin of the famed Russian Top Team, Igor Svirid of Kazakhstan, and the exciting up and comer from Thailand, Anatpong Bunrad.”
“I’m also very excited to add one of the greatest grapplers in the game, from MMA’s royal family, Roger Gracie. I anticipate major excitement in the ONE FC cage as these fresh international stars and seasoned veterans mix it up in the shark infested waters of the ONE FC cage!”
The next ONE FC event will be next Friday in Dubai and will feature three title fights including Ben Askren challenging Nobutatsu Suzuki for the ONE FC welterweight title.