Hatsu Hioki vs. Ricardo Lamas added to UFC on FX 4 in New Jersey
True to his promise, Hatsu Hioki (26-4-2 MMA, 2-0 UFC) will fight one more time before challenging UFC featherweight champion Jose Aldo.
UFC officials today confirmed Hioki will meet Ricardo Lamas (11-2 MMA, 2-0 UFC) at UFC in FX 4, which takes place takes place June 22 at Revel Atlantic City in Atlantic City, N.J. The night's main card airs on FX, and FUEL TV is expected to carry the prelims.
It's currently unknown where the Hioki vs. Lamas matchup will fall on the evening's schedule.
UFC president first revealed the booking to FOXSports.com.
"Many pegged Hioki as the next possible challenger for Jose Aldo's title, but he wants one more test before going for the belt," White said. "In his way is Lamas, who has proven to be a tough competitor for anyone to deal with, especially since moving down to featherweight and finishing both opponents at 145 pounds. Both guys have verbally agreed to the match."
A former Shooto and Sengoku champion, Hioki made his debut at this past October's UFC 137 event with a narrow split-decision win over George Roop. He returned with a controlling decision win over Bart Palaszewski at UFC 144. Hioki currently boasts a six-fight win streak and is 11-1-1 in his past 13 fights.
Meanwhile, Lamas came to the UFC following a 4-2 stint as a lightweight in the WEC. He dropped to 145 pounds for his UFC debut and has since earned wins over Cub Swanson and Matt Grice.
