Tony Ferguson Drops to Lightweight, Meets Aaron Riley at UFC 135

The Ultimate Fighter 13 winner Tony Ferguson has quickly been given another bout after claiming the six-figure contract and fancy plaque with a knockout win over Ramsey Nijem at the TUF 13 Finale earlier this month. That opponent will be veteran Aaron Riley, and it will take place in the lightweight division at UFC 135 on September 21st in Denver, CO. UFC.com announced it today:

"Ultimate Fighter winner Tony 'El Cucuy' Ferguson has verbally agreed to drop down to the lightweight division to take on relentless veteran Aaron Riley September 24 in Denver, Colorado," said UFC President Dana White.

Ferguson also picked up knockout of the night honors for his performance against Nijem, but he will likely have a much harder time doing that against Riley, a 43-fight veteran who's coming off a decision win over Joe Brammer at UFC 114. Riley has been out with an back injury for over a year now, but is looking to make a splash upon his return by taking out the reigning TUF champion. Riley also signed with Alchemist MMA recently.

Tony "El Cucuy" Ferguson (11-2)
Win Ramsey Nijem - KO (Punches) TUF 13 Finale
Win Brock Jardine - TKO (Punches)  PC 12
Win David Gardner - TKO (Punches) CAFS

Aaron Riley (30-12-1)
Win Joe Brammer - Decision (Unanimous) UFC 114
Loss Ross Pearson - TKO (Doctor Stoppage) UFC 105
Win  Shane Nelson - Decision (Unanimous) UFC 101

More SBN coverage of UFC 135