It’s been a long and winding road for Patchy Mix. While it’s unclear what the final destination will be, the next stop is in Japan.
Mix (20-3) has been released from the UFC and will fight at RIZIN 52 on March 6 (March 7 local) in Tokyo against Kyoma Akimoto (11-1), a person with knowledge of the situation confirmed to MMA Junkie after the promotion posted a graphic.
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Not only will Mix, 32, be switching promotions, but also weight classes. Given his tough cut to bantamweight, Mix is headed up a class to featherweight in an attempt get back to his winning ways.
Mix was widely regarded as one of the best fighters outside the UFC prior to PFL’s acquisition of Bellator. Following the merger, Mix departed the promotion and was swiftly signed by the UFC.
After a debut unanimous decision loss to top contender Mario Bautista in June, Mix lost a split decision to former KSW champion Jakub Wiklacz in October.
Akimoto, 19, has eight finishes in 11 wins and has won three bouts in a row entering his battle vs. Mix.
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This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: UFC makes stunning release as former Bellator champ signs with RIZIN
