Despite recently teasing a move to PFL or Bellator, [autotag]Thiago Alves[/autotag] has opted to go in a different direction with his fighting future.
Alves, a one-time UFC welterweight title challenger, will shed his gloves to compete in Bare Knuckle FC, the promotion announced Wednesday.
“I’m very excited to be part of the BKFC family,” Alves said in a BKFC-issued press release announcing the news. “I’m looking forward to testing my skills against anyone in my weight class. ‘The Pitbull’ is thirsty for blood!”
After joining the UFC in October 2005, Alves amassed a 15-12 record inside the octagon over more than 14 years. He finally fought out his contract for the first time with a submission loss to Tim Means at UFC on ESPN 7 in December and told MMA Junkie prior to that contest that he intended to test free agency.
In a recent interview, Alves said he’d been in negotiations with MMA organizations such as PFL and Bellator, but would only sign if he thought a worthwhile offer came through.
BKFC, however, came through as a dark horse to attain his services.
“Thiago Alves has been a staple in the UFC for a long time,” BKFC president David Feldman said. “It’s amazing to have a fighter of this stature, and of this caliber, fighting for BKFC. Alves brings it each and every time he gets into the ring. On top of being a great fighter, he’s also a great person. That’s who we are aligning ourselves with.”
Alves is expected to make his BKFC debut in April or May. No potential opponents have been mentioned at this time.
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