UFC signs Australian heavyweight Soa Palelei

Soa Palelei returns to the UFC after four years. Photo: AFC/Disclosure

The UFC continues to look for more names for the heavyweight category. The most recent addition to the list of athletes in the 120 kg division was Australian Soa Palelei. The fighter's manager announced the agreement last Monday night (04).

“I'm grateful to Dana White and Joe Silva for giving me this opportunity to return to the UFC to showcase my skills,” said Palelei after the announcement. “With hard work, determination and a great team, I am happy to say that today I have signed with the UFC. I’m looking forward to competing in the best organization in the world,” he added.

“The Hulk”, as he is known, already had a quick stint in Ultimate in 2007, when he was defeated by Eddie Sanchez in his only fight in the organization. Since then, Palelei has won ten of his last eleven fights, having only been defeated by Daniel Cormier in this interval. The Australian is on a streak of eight consecutive victories and is the current holder of the world championship belt. Australian Fighting Championship (AFC) in the heavyweight category.

In none of his 21 fights as a professional, did Palelei allow the fight to reach the judges' decision – his fights, even the defeats, always ended in knockouts or submissions. The 35-year-old athlete still does not have a date for his UFC debut.