Alves

By FCF Staff

Although Yoshihiro Akiyama has lost four straight bouts in the Octagon, the Japanese star will reportedly fight former welterweight contender Thiago Alves this summer. The bout is expected to take place on the upcoming July 21st, UFC 149 card in Calgary, Alberta.

The fight, which was initially reported by MMA Fighting, has not been officially announced by the promotion.

In February, Akiyama (13-5) failed to end his losing streak, as the accomplished Judoka dropped a unanimous decision to Jake Shields at UFC 144.

The former middleweight hasn’t won a fight since July, 2009, when Akiyama was awarded a split decision win over Alan Belcher at UFC 100.

Since then the veteran has been defeated by Michael Bisping, Chris Leben, Vitor Belfort and the aforementioned Shields.

Alves (19-9) is looking to rebound from a submission loss he suffered versus Martin Kampmann last month, following his first round, tap-out victory over Papy Abedi in November.

The American Top Team fighter has gone 2-3 in his last 5 bouts.

UFC 149 is expected to feature a title defence from featherweight champion Jose Aldo, however, no opponent for the decorated fighter has been confirmed.