Just one day after being confirmed by promotion officials, the fight card for the Ultimate Fighting Championship’s maiden voyage to Sweden has begun rapidly filling.
Stann, who had been moving toward title contention after three straight wins, had his momentum halted by Chael Sonnen in a second-round October submission defeat. Sakara (Pictured) had also won three in a row -- though his streak stretched back to 2008 -- before being outpointed by wrestler Chris Weidman in their March 2011 meeting.
MMAnytt.se also reported Thursday that Swedish middleweight prospect Magnus Cedenblad has signed with the UFC and will make his first appearance on April 14 against Tristar Gym fighter Francis Carmont. Two more newcomers, unbeaten light heavyweight Jorgen Kruth and longtime welterweight standout Simeon Thoresen, have also reportedly inked UFC deals and will make their respective debuts against Cyrille Diabate and Besam Yousef.
Finally, MMAFighting.com reported Wednesday that Stockholm-based welterweight Papy Abedi will look to rebound from his first career defeat when he takes on Oklahoman James Head.