Nick Newell Returns to Face Kalvin Hackney at CES MMA 56 in Connecticut on May 31

Congenital amputee Nick Newell will return to action for the first time since last July when he faces Kalvin Hackney at CES MMA 56.

The promotion recently confirmed the booking following an initial report from ESPN.com. CES MMA 56 takes place at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford, Conn., on May 31. The card will stream in its entirety on UFC Fight Pass.

Newell, whose left arm extends just below his elbow, lobbied hard for a shot at a UFC contract. He got his opportunity on Dana White’s Tuesday Night Contender Series last summer, but he dropped a unanimous verdict against Alex Munoz on July 24. The 33-year-old Newell has done well on the regional circuit overall, compiling a 14-2 career record with appearances in Legacy Fighting Alliance, World Series of Fighting and XFC. His only other career defeat came against current UFC lightweight star Justin Gaethje.

Hackney, meanwhile, is 17-5 as a pro and has competed for organizations such as Bellator and Legacy Fighting Championship. The Louisiana native is currently on a three-fight winning streak.