Akiyama Announces “The Axe Murderer” As Next Opponent

News

Yoshihiro Akiyama’s split decision win over Alan Belcher marked the former K-1 star’s debut in the UFC. Although it was a very close and controversial victory, Akiyama has moved up in the middleweight division to a bout with one of the most notable mixed martial artists in the organization.

Akiyama announced on Tuesday that he would be competing against Wanderlei Silva in his next fight. The bout is rumored to be set for either UFC 110 or UFC 111.

While the fight would not serve as a main event by any means, Silva and Akiyama received fight of the night bonuses at UFC 99 and UFC 100 respectively. The UFC will look to bolster either of the possible events with this fight, as each fighter has a history of exciting and intense fights.

Silva spent several years in PRIDE dominating the 205 pound division. His fight with Akiyama will be “The Axe Murderer’s” first fight at 185, as he looks to make a run at fellow Brazilian Anderson Silva’s belt.