By FCF Staff
James “The Sandman” Irvin is heading back to where his MMA career all began, as Gladiator Challenge has announced that the UFC vet has signed a multi-fight deal with the promotion. Irvin, who made his pro debut with Gladiator Challenge in 2003, will compete on the organization’s upcoming January 29th card in Elko, Nevada. According to the event’s poster, Irvin’s opponent will be Mike Crisman (9-19).
“We are so pleased to have James back with us,” GC Promoter Tedd Williams was quoted saying in the official announcement. “He’s getting the platform he needs to launch himself back onto the national scene, and we get to present one of the most exciting fighters out there to our rabidly faithful GC fans. It it’s a great situation for both sides.”
Irvin (15-8) will return to Gladiator Challenge having dropped four of his last five fights. Most recently in December, the 32 year-old vet was submitted by Jorge Oliveira at Tachi Palace Fights 7. The noted striker’s last win came in October, when Irvin KO’d Angel DeAnda while competing for Rebel Fights.
“’The Sandman’ is back, baby!” said Irvin, whose last UFC win was an eight second stoppage of Houston Alexander. “Eight seconds was the old KO record…look for a new one!”
The upcoming January 29th card will also feature local fighters Jimmy Centers, Miguel Espitia, Jack Montgomery, and Justin Stayley.
