Dennis Bermudez vs. Maximo Blanco booked for UFC Fight Night in Boston

A pivotal featherweight matchup between Dennis Bermudez and up-and-comer Maximo Blanco has been booked for UFC Fight Night 81 in Boston, MA early next year. The Boston Herald confirmed the news earlier this week.

Bermudez (14-5) is coming off two consecutive stoppage losses to top contenders Jeremy Stephens and Ricardo Lamas. Prior to that, the 28-year old was riding an impressive seven-fight winning streak, which included victories over current Max Holloway and Clay Guida.

Blanco (12-6-1, 1 NC) has won three Octagon appearances in-a-row and most recently scored an (admittedly controversial) quick stoppage vs. Mike De La Torre at The Ultimate Fighter 21 Finale this past summer. He made his UFC debut in 2012 but dropped a split decision loss to Marcus Brimage, who was recently released from the promotion. The 32-year old holds a 4-3 record inside the Octagon.

The card placement for UFC Fight Night 81 has yet to be finalized.

UFC Fight Night 81 takes place live from TD Garden in Boston, MA on Jan. 17. In the main event, UFC bantamweight champion T.J. Dillashaw defends his belt against former titleholder Dominick Cruz. Former lightweight champion Anthony Pettis takes on former Bellator champion Eddie Alvarez in the co-main.