UFC signs former kickboxing champion Gokhan Saki to multi-fight deal

The UFC has added an intriguing talent to its light heavyweight division.

Former kickboxing champion Gokhan "The Rebel" Saki has signed a multi-fight deal, the promotion announced Thursday. The Dutchman is targeting the UFC's September trip to Rotterdam in his home country for his first walk to the Octagon.

The 33-year-old's UFC debut will mark just his second mixed martial arts bout and his first in over 12 years. He lost his sole fight in 4-ounce gloves by TKO to seasoned Englishman James Zikic in July 2004.

Saki most recently competed in top kickboxing promotion Glory, but left on acrimonious terms earlier this month, according to a post on Facebook. The 33-year-old was a fixture on the K-1 circuit before joining Glory, and takes his talents to the Octagon with a gaudy kickboxing record of 83-12, including 59 knockouts and wins over Tyrone Spong, Melvin Manhoef, and Ray Sefo.