UFC-fired Rousimar Palhares gets WSOF title shot

The UFC cut Rousimar Palhares for keeping his leg lock on Mike Pierce too long in October, but the World Series of Fighting is bringing Palhares into its stable with an immediate
title shot.

The WSOF announced Monday Palhares will fight champion Steve Carl on March 29 at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.

Also on the card, Marlon Moraes will oppose Josh Rettinghouse in the organization’s inaugural bantamweight title fight.

Palhares (15-5) was impressive in his first-round submission of Pierce in Brazil, but his inability to release the strong leg clamp despite Pierce tapping out and yelling in agony drew the ire of UFC President Dana White, who cut him in an interview on ESPN.

The WSOF signed Palhares in November and the organization’s president, Ray Seso, said, “Rousimar is one of the most talented athletes in mixed martial arts and we’re excited to have him as part of our organization.”

Carl is 21-3, having won the title in October.

NBC Sports Network televises WSOF fights. Tickets will be priced starting at $39.