The UFC has signed multi-time kickboxing world champion Gokhan Saki to a contract to compete in the light heavyweight division.
“I’m glad I finally can announce that I have signed an exclusive long-term contract with the UFC,” Saki wrote on Facebook. “The best investment the UFC has made since Conor McGregor. Soon I will show everybody what Turkey and U.A.E. bring to the table.”
Saki has one mixed martial arts bout on his record, a technical knockout loss to James Zikic at Cage Fighting Championships 1 “Cage Carnage” in Liverpool, England on July 11, 2004. However, the 33-year-old has compiled an 83-12 record with one no contest in the kickboxing realm, winning titles in Glory and K-1. “The Rebel” owns victories over the likes of Tyrone Spong, Melvin Manhoef, Daniel Ghita and Ray Sefo under kickboxing rules.
Saki also confirmed in a lengthy statement why he left Glory and signed what he called a “retirement contract.” His full statement can be read below: