Ricco Rodriguez has stepped forward and challenged British Bulldog Ian “The Machine” Freeman.

The two will clash at The Legends of MMA show for the promotion’s World Title on Saturday, July 27th at the Keepmoat Stadium, Doncaster.

Former heavyweight UFC champion Rodriguez stepped in for America after Ken Shamrock pulled out of the event.

A show spokesman said: “Ricco has stepped up to the mark to represent the USA in this international world title fight so we haven’t lost the clash between the States and Great Britain.

“Ricco is a brilliant fighter and we are really pleased he took the fight with Ian. He is a very versatile fighter who has great stand up and ground skills.”

“However, Ian is also a very experienced and tough fighter and we are expecting a real battle between these two fighters.”

Rodriguez was due to face Neil Wain on the show in a pro heavyweight bout before moving up to the headline spot.

He has a 51 wins and 20 losses record and has fought on Bellator, UFC, Pride, BAMMA and WEC as well as other top promotions.

Ricco said: “I’m happy to step up for the challenge. Ian is very tough and slick with power and experience. This will be a very explosive fight.

“I believe that every MMA fan around the world will love this fight. Old or new this has beginning, a middle and there will be an ending – boom. Ricco mother f***ing Rodriguez…”

Ian Freeman said: “It’s an honour to be facing Ricco. He is a real man and a real fighter.

“This will be a far harder fight than against Shamrock. He has a slight advantage of being a bit heavier than me but he’ll soon discover what it means to face The Machine.”

“I am glad that Ricco stepped up to the plate for the USA and was man enough to take the fight against me. It will be an honour to step into the fight arena with him.”

“I would have fought anyone the UCFC put in front of me as I would not let the fans down.”

The event will see top UK Hip-Hop star Professor Green and Jay Mya play live at the event.

Also on the fight card are Neil Grove, of Bellator, Dragan Pesic, Oli Thompson and Paul Taylor, and Darren Towler and Colin Robinson. Also on the card are Craig Burke, Louis Chapman, Khaled Radmen and Zi Shah amongst other top fighters.

Tickets are now on sale at: £50 for premier standard (front rows in standard), £35 for standard discount and £25 for student standard discount. Corporate – Box of 10 (£1000 + VAT) Limited numbers; VIP Restaurant – Tables of 10 (£850) Limited numbers; Olympic Seating – £120 (Cageside).

To buy tickets phone 0844 324 5590, or go to the Keepmoat Stadium Ticket Office at  www.keepmoatstadium.com or www.ucfc.tv or go to Ticketmaster on http://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/Keepmoat-Stadium-Doncaster-tickets-Doncaster/venue/435329

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Jay Cee – @JayCeeMMA

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*This is an official UCFC press release. A press release is an announcement of an event, performance, or other newsworthy item that is issued to the press.