A pair of UFC light heavyweights will collide in June.
Multiple sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, have confirmed to Cageside Press that Ike Villanueva and Marcin Prachnio will fight at a yet-to-be-announced UFC event on June 26.
Villanueva (18-11) was essentially fighting for his job at UFC Fight Night: Chiesa vs. Magny back in January on ‘Fight Island.’ He picked up his first UFC win when he knocked out Vinicius Moreira in the second round. “Hurricane” did not have the best 2020 as he lost both of his fights; however, one of those contests was at heavyweight, and the other was stopped because of a nasty cut.
Additionally, opponent Chase Sherman, who Villanueva faced in his inaugural UFC bout, later tested positive for banned substances. A hearing for Sherman under the Florida State Boxing Commission is expected this month, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation previously told Cageside Press.
Villanueva was riding a four-fight winning streak when he was signed by the UFC last year.
Like his opponent, Prachnio (14-5) was recently fighting for his job as well. The Polish fighter had lost three straight to Sam Alvey, Magomed Ankalaev, and Mike Rodriguez – all via knockout. Prachnio picked up his first UFC win against fan-favorite Khalil Rountree Jr. at UFC 257, also on ‘Fight Island.’ He won a unanimous decision.
With both fighters getting their first UFC victory this year, they will be looking to continue their winning ways come June.
No location, venue, or broadcast plan has been reported for the UFC’s June 26 event. With the latest addition, the card now includes the following bouts:
- Ed Herman vs. Danilo Marques
- Ovince Saint Preux vs. Maxim Grishin
- Ike Villanueva vs. Marcin Prachnio
