The Pole of UFC -Fedweights that chases Alexander Volkanovski has just gone deeper with the addition of a highly regarded prospect.
In a change in the approach, the UFC has signed a number of established stars and prospects of other promotions in recent years.
Ex-Bellator stands outs such as Patricio Pitbull, Patchy Mix and Michael 'Venom' page all arrived, while two former KSW champions in Robert Ruchala and Jakub Wiklacz prepare for their debut in the coming weeks.
In the eyes of many, however, the best possible signing that the promotion of Dana White could make, away from the Octagon. That was so far …
UFC signs former Octagon Double Champion Losene Keita
When it comes to hunters who have made a splash on the rising European MMA scene, not much can hold a candle to the efforts of Losene Keita.
The 16-1 Professional-Wiens only loss was due to an injury a two-division champion under the Octagon Banner by collecting both the featherweight and lightweight titles. During his time in the organization, the 27-year-old was known for highlight-reel Knockouts, entertainment walkouts and some solid MIC skills.
All three attributes are undoubtedly desirable for the UFC, but the promotion was still not willing to offer the rising star more than a base of $ 12,000 show/$ 12,000 profit contract in 2024. As a result, Keita chose to stay in the European organization.
But this year he unveiled the presence of a UFC-Out clause in his last contract. That was clearly exercised because Keita went to social media on Friday to announce that he finally put pen on paper about a deal with the leading promotion of MMA.
Nolan King from MMA Junkie later confirmed that he will compete on 145 pounds, which means that 'Black Panther' will mark the newest newcomer with their eye on the gold of Volkanovski, following the UFC 319 who debuted Aaron Pico, who this year from the PFL to the UFC Sprong.
And given Keita's history of multi-weight success in Europe, the 27-year-old may have one eye on the lightweight gold of Ilia Topuria if he would enjoy a rapid rise in featherweight ranks.
Fans have long called on the UFC to sign Losene Keita
It was not long before MMA fans responded to news about Keita's approaching arrival in the UFC. It was not surprising to see the most incredibly enthusiastic about the signing, especially seen how much the top promotion of the sport had called to bring the leading prospect to the Octagon.
For months, fans have been visiting the UFC to make Keita the latest large signing of the free agent. Their phone calls have finally been heard.
“Losene Keita. He's not in the UFC, but he has the skills to remove a UFC top 15.”
“We must see you (Keita) in the UFC as soon as possible.”
“Keita would have been great, they clearly don't care about UFC Paris, they don't make any trouble on the menu.”
“@Keita_losene let's draw gooooo (with) @ufc.”
“Losene Keita at UFC Paris please.”
“But what is the UFC waiting for signing the Belgian gem?”
“The fact that Keita does not sign with the UFC makes me sick from MMA.”
Now talk about Keita Online is focused on anticipation on his UFC debut and discussion about whether he can replicate his Octagon success in the largest stage in MMA.
“Let's go !!! I've wanted this signing for a while.”
“UFC is not ready for brutality.”
“One of the best hunters on European soil.”