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Josh Barnett set for UFC return

ESPN staff
May 22, 2013
Josh Barnett has won nine of his last ten fights © Getty Images
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Josh Barnett has agreed a deal to bring him back to the UFC, more than a decade after he won the heavyweight title.

Barnett has signed a multi-fight deal, in news first reported by USA Today and MMA Junkie. He returns at the age of 35 and in impressive form.

The veteran has won nine of his last 10 bouts, only losing to Daniel Cormier. His style of catch wrestling, which has brought him 20 submission victories, will be an intriguing addition to the UFC roster.

Barnett's relationship with the UFC dates back to the start of the Millennium, winning the UFC title against Randy Couture aged 24 in 2002. Victory came via TKO.

However, his reign as champion did not last long after he was stripped of the belt and banned for testing positive for illegal substances. A series of high-profile spats with president Dana White followed over a number of years.

He will now look to make an impact on the UFC for all the right reasons, although his first opponent is yet to be announced.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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