Zuffa signs Nate Marquardt for likely title-fight in Strikeforce

This week’s episode of UFC Tonight has confirmed Nate Marquardt was been signed by Zuffa compete under the Strikeforce banner. Marquardt was released by the UFC following failed medicals stemming from testosterone use only a day before his fight with Rick Story.

UFC President Dana White was very outspoken against Marquardt at the time based on a few past transgressions and stated the middleweight’s run in the organization was over on a permanent basis.

Now, Marquardt returns to the Zuffa banner after a brief stint with BAMMA, an English fight promotion where “Nate the Great” signed but never actually competed based on the organization’s lack of shows.

According to the show’s report, it is likely that Marquardt’s first bout with Strikeforce will take place for the vacant welterweight title against rising star Tyron Woodley. No specific date was mentioned as being targeted for the fight.

PHOTO CREDIT – UFC

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MMATraining Take: Despite his past problems, Marquardt is a big name and could really help elevate Strikeforce and the welterweight division. His match with Woodley would likely be a main event one for any Strikeforce event, helping pull in UFC fans that are familiar with his past work.