I try to keep up with the new UFC fighter signings, in the MMA industry where the news comes fast and furious, it's not always easy.
First news comes down that Andre Gusmao (5-0-0) is no longer UFC bound:
SamCaplan.ProElite.com has learned that those reports are incorrect, as the IFL has a contract option to retain Gusmao for the 2008 season and will be exercising that option.
The UFC had been in discussions with someone falsely claiming to be representing Gusmao and misrepresenting information during the faux negotiations. According to the source, the UFC was contacted by the IFL soon after hearing the reports of Gusmao's departure.
The UFC, which had never extended a formal offer and never made an official announcement, ceased all negotiations with Gusmao after being contacted by the IFL.
Gusmao will be with the IFL in 2008 and is expected to be a key player on Renzo Gracie's team next season.
But fear not UFC fans, Tatame brings tidings of another undefeated, Brazillian, light heavyweight fighter, signing on with the organization. Luis "Banha" Arthur Cane (7-0-0) is slated to debut versus James Irvin (12-4-0) at UFC 79: Nemesis on December 29, 2007 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Gibi Thai Team member has both solid muay-thai and jiu-jitsu and will pose all sorts of problems for the hard hitting Irvin.
In other fighter signing news, Antonio "Bigfoot" Silva (9-1-0) and Murilo "Ninja" Rua (14-8-1) have signed long-term contract extensions with EliteXC.
According to a report at Sherdog.com EliteXC has also signed British based fighters, Jean "White Bear" Silva (15-7-3) and Che Mills (5-1-0). Both fighters signed four fight deals with the American arm of Pro Elite's fight organization.
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