Palhares Inks Four-Fight Deal with UFC

UFC middleweight Rousimar Palhares has reportedly signed a new four-fight contract with the UFC.

Tatame first reported the news on Saturday. Palhares’ coach, Brazilian Top Team leader Murilo Bustamante, confirmed Palhares’ new deal and provided some insight into his aspirations for the future. According to Bustamante, first and foremost on Palhares’ agenda is a rematch with perennial middleweight contender Nate Marquardt.

Palhares entered his main event contest with Marquardt at UFC Fight Night 22 riding a three-fight winning streak and looking to insert himself into the title picture. The September bout was not a pleasant one for “Toquinho,” however, as he was defeated by technical knockout in the first round.

After dropping for a leg lock against the Grudge Training Center product, Palhares lost concentration after Marquardt slipped out of the submission attempt. Rather than focusing on his opponent, the Brazilian instead looked to the referee and began complaining about Marquardt’s legs being greased. The American seized the opportunity and landed a punch on Palhares’ head, pounding him out and earning the stoppage victory. Marquardt was cleared of any wrongdoing immediately following the fight, and Palhares has since apologized for his greasing accusation.

Known for his powerful build and potent grappling, the Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt holds eight of his 11 career triumphs by submission. A leg lock specialist, Palhares has submitted Ivan Salaverry, Lucio Linhares and Tomasz Drwal since joining the UFC. His only losses inside the Octagon have come to Marquardt and former two-division world champion Dan Henderson.