UFC
Hatsu Hioki vs. Ricardo Lamas added to UFC on FX 4 in Atlantic City
Apr 25, 2012 - 11:25:56 PM Hatsu Hioki vs. Ricardo Lamas added to UFC on FX 4 in Atlantic City

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By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

Hatsu Hioki has been considered one of the top featherweight fighters in the world over the last several years, but after two wins in the UFC he's not yet looking to fight for the UFC Featherweight Championship. Instead, FoxSports.com reports that he'll take on Ricardo Lamas at UFC on FX 4 in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

"Many pegged Hioki as the next possible challenger for Jose Aldo's title, but he wants one more test before going for the belt," UFC President Dana White said. "In his way is Lamas, who has proven to be a tough competitor for anyone to deal with, especially since moving down to featherweight and finishing both opponents at 145 pounds. Both guys have verbally agreed to the match."

After a 4-2 run in the WEC, Lamas has won his first two fights in the Octagon. After a head-kick led to a TKO finish over Matt Grice last June, he followed it up with a submission win over Cub Swanson in June.

Penick's Analysis: Hioki might garner criticism from some for not going after a title shot considering the standing he's held in the division outside of the UFC, but I don't begrudge any fighter wanting to feel they're ready for a fight of that magnitude before taking it. Jose Aldo is such a force at featherweight that being less than 100% confident in yourself heading into that challenge would spell absolute failure before you step into the cage. This will give him another fight to establish himself, and if he can take out a tough opponent in Lamas it will be another statement win.