· Hermes Franca Signs With MFC, Tentatively Scheduled To Face Drew Fickett

Former UFC lightweight title contender Hermes Franca continues his effort to reclaim his spot among lightweight contenders, signing a contract with Canadian MMA promotion Maximum Fighting Championship. Pending approval from the Athletic Comission, Franca is expected to face Drew Fickett on April 8 at "MFC 29: Conquer" from the Colosseum at Caesar's Windsor in Windsor, Ontario.

"I'm very intrigued to see what Hermes can do in the MFC, and especially with him meeting Drew Fickett in his first fight," said MFC Owner/President Mark Pavelich. "Hermes is extremely talented as his record shows, and I have made it very clear that I believe Fickett is one of the world's best fighters at 155 pounds."

Following an eight fight win streak, Franca earned a UFC title shot against Sean Sherk in July 2007. After being defeated by unanimous decision, both Sherk and Franca tested positive for performance enhancing drugs and were suspended. Franca would fight three more times in the UFC after returning from a year long suspension, losing to current champion, Frankie Edgar, as well as Tyson Griffin, with the lone win coming against Marcus Aurelio. His luck did not change after leaving the UFC, losing three more bouts in a row and briefly retiring.

Franca's first win in two-and-a-half years came last month against Jorge Sarat for G-Force Promotions.

Franca's proposed opponent, Drew Fickett has seen a reversal of fortunes as of late. After a stretch of going 2-8 with five straight losses, Fickett has amassed an impressive five fight winning streak with all of the wins coming by submission.