‘King Mo’ Signs with Strikeforce

Muhammed “King Mo” Lawal has signed a multi-fight deal with Strikeforce and could make his promotional debut as early as December, according to a source with knowledge of the negotiations.

Lawal has signed on to compete in the light heavyweight division, said the source.

The deal allows the undefeated Lawal, a NCAA Div. 1 All-American wrestling champion for Oklahoma State in 2003 and decorated international competitor, to continue competing on the Japanese circuit. There, the 28-year-old heavyweight has made a name for himself with four straight victories in the Sengoku Raiden Championship (formerly Sengoku) over the last year. Three of those wins have come by stoppage from strikes, while Lawal’s only decision came after he tore his ACL in the first round of his match with Ryo Kawamura at Sengoku “Seventh Battle” last March.

Most recently, Lawal finished an expired Mark Kerr in only 25 seconds at M-1 “Breakthrough” on Aug. 28.

Known for his flamboyant fight entrances, King Mo earned his regal moniker by wearing a crown to the ring with a bevy of beauties in tow.

Jeff Sherwood contributed to this report, which was updated at 1:02 a.m. to clarify that Lawal will be competing at 205 pounds and not as a heavyweight.