The Ultimate Fighter: Nations Finale

Bisping cleared to face Kennedy

February 1, 2014

Michael Bisping has not fought since April 2013 because of a detached retina © Getty Images

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UFC middleweight Michael Bisping has been medically cleared to fight against Tim Kennedy at The Ultimate Fighter: Nations Finale on April 16.

UFC president Dana White confirmed the news Thursday during a media appearance at Madison Square Garden. The bout will headline the event.

Bisping (24-5) hasn't fought since April 2013 because of a detached retina. He had been scheduled to fight Mark Munoz in October but withdrew due to complications following surgery on the area.

The middleweight went 1-1 in two appearances last year. He suffered a knockout loss to Vitor Belfort in January before rebounding with a decision win over Alan Belcher at UFC 159.

Kennedy (17-4) will carry a three-fight win streak into the contest. He scored a first-round knockout victory in his last appearance, over Rafael Natal at UFC Fight Night 31.

The TUF Nations Finale will take place in Quebec City.

This article originally appeared on ESPN.com