It's official: Shark Fight Promotions announced that a worthy opponent for UFC veteran Paul "Semtex" Daley has been signed. The organization announced today that the top welterweight contender will step into the cage with American Top Team fighter, Jorge "Gamebred" Masvidal. This will be Daley's first bout in the U.S. following his highly publicized departure from the UFC.
According to Brent Medley, president of Shark Fight Promotions, "Choosing the right opponent to face a high-level contender like Daley was not easy. Numerous A-list fighters were under consideration. When we heard that Jorge Masvidal wanted to return to the welterweight division after several grueling weight cuts from 185lbs to 155lbs, he became our clear choice. We immediately approached Masvidal about the bout and he did not hesitate to step up to the challenge."
Medley went on to say, "We feel that this is a very compelling match up. Daley and Masvidal are both highly skilled marquee fighters, with fight styles that match up well. Masvidal, who has been a dominating force in the lightweight division, is determined to prove that he's an even bigger threat as a welterweight. Defeating Paul Daley would send that message loud and clear, but it won't be easy. This is going to be a very exciting fight!"
Jorge "Gamebred" Masvidal (20-5) is a former AFC Welterweight Champion and Bellator Fighting Championships veteran. He holds notable wins over UFC standout Joe Lauzon, former IFL Lightweight Champion Ryan Schultz, UFC and Pride veteran Yves Edwards, former Sengoku Lightweight Champion Satoru Kitaoka, and most recently Naoyuki Kotani. A notable win over a top contender such as Paul Daley will likely put Masvidal on the radar of UFC executives.
The impressive Shark Fights 13 main event roster includes Keith Jardine vs. Trevor Prangley, Rameau Sokoudjou vs. Houston Alexander, Paul Daley vs. Jorge Masvidal, Drew McFedries vs. Joey Villasenor, and a fifth fight yet to be announced. To learn more about Shark Fight Promotions, please visit www.sharkfights.com.