He's back.
Just over a month after his surprise release from Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), Ultimate Fighter (TUF) Season 8 winner Efrain Escudero has found employment with the Florida-based SHINE Fights organization.
An official date for his debut has yet to be finalized.
From SHINE COO Jason Chambers:
"I'm very excited to have Efrain sign on with us. I have tremendous confidence in his abilities, and look forward to seeing him make waves in our growing lightweight division."
Escudero was booted from the world's largest fight promotion after getting subbed by Charles Oliveira at UFC Fight Night 22: "Marquardt vs Palhares" just last month.
Coming out of his impressive run on the Spike TV reality show, "Hecho en Mexico" was thought to be one of the hottest young prospects in the 155-pound division, however; he failed to impress in his five fights with the organization, posting an unspectacular record of 3-2 during his tenure.
Star-divide
After coming into the Oliveira fight four pounds overweight (the second time he came in heavy in his Zuffa employ), company President Dana White didn't think Escudero was driven enough to run with the big dogs.
But don't expect Escudero to dwell on it.
"Going to Shine is the first step to becoming a world champion. As far as my career goes, things happen, and I don’t live in the past. I’m excited to get this show in the road…Shine, here I come!"
Chambers promises another wave of well-known fighters for his next event. In the meantime, anyone want to play matchmaker for Escudero's SHINE debut?
Source: http://www.mmamania.com/2010/11/3/17917 ... &width=850