Shortly after DREAM has reportedly ceased operations, the UFC announced that verbal agreements were in place, and they have picked up former two division DREAM champion, Bibiano Fernandes for a UFC 149 bout. A few days later though, reports surfaced that the Brazilian has been pulled out of the card, as he never really signed a contract with the UFC.
Bibiano has stated that negotiations with the UFC failed initially as they "could not resolve the issues on the table" and they couldn't come to an agreement. Numerous reports suggested that the top Asian promotion, ONE FC, has offered a much more lucrative offer, and Bibiano would be weighing his options and making a decision soon.
Fast forward to today, and Fernandes has finally made a decision, indeed signing with the Asian promotion and is set to make his debut on the ONE FC: Manila card this August.
No opponent has been named as of yet, but the ONE FC 5 card is already shaping up very well with fellow DREAM champion, Shinya Aoki headlining, and having several URCC champions on the line up as well.
Fernandes (11-3) is currently the highest ranked bantamweight fighter outside of Zuffa, as he sits at #8 of the consensus rankings. The former DREAM featherweight champion last fought on NYE 2011, defeating two opponents to win the bantamweight Grand Prix, and to take his second title in as much divisions.
Source: After Failed UFC Negotiations, Bibiano Fernandes Signs With ONE FC
