Legacy Fighting Championship signs UFC vet Junior Assuncao
Two-time UFC veteran Junior Assuncao (13-5) has signed a multi-fight deal with the Texas-based Legacy Fighting Championship organization.
MMAjunkie.com (
www.mmajunkie.com) today learned of the signing.
Assuncao is expected to make his promotional debut at Legacy Fighting Championship 12 on July 13 against an opponent yet to be determined.
Legacy Fighting Championships 12, which is also expected to feature Robert Drysdale vs. Isaac "Ike" Villanueva, takes place at Houston's Arena Theater. Longtime vet Jay Hieron is also expected to compete at the event, which airs live on HDNet.
Assuncao made his UFC debut as a lightweight in 2006, earning a win over David Lee in between losses to Nate Diaz and Kurt Pellegrino. Following that three-fight stint, Assuncao returned to the regional scene, posting a 7-1 mark before earning a second call-up to the octagon.
Assuncao dropped to 145 pounds for the opportunity and debuted with a UFC 135 win over Eddie Yagin. However, he returned this past December with a decision loss to Ross Pearson. Assuncao retreated for most of the fight, looking to counter the British striker, but his gameplan proved ineffective, and he was promptly released from the promotion.
Assuncao campaigned openly for a return to the UFC, but the 30-year-old Brazilian will now return to work under the Legacy Fighting Championship banner.
