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Ortiz verbally agrees to Machida fight

MMAWeekly.com

Much speculation has surrounded Tito Ortiz and when he would fulfill the final fight on his current Ultimate Fighting Championship contract, but it appears that question has been answered. The much-maligned light heavyweight has verbally agreed to meet upstart Lyoto Machida as a part of the May 24 UFC card at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

MMAWeekly.com first reported that Lyoto Machida’s camp had received an offer to fight Ortiz and the undefeated Brazilian gladly accepted the opportunity.

“It would be an honor to fight such a legend as Tito Ortiz,” said Machida. “I would like to see how my technique matches up against his.”

During an appearance on Fight Network Radio, Ortiz confirmed his willingness to accept the bout against Machida, although the former light heavyweight champion stated he was looking for a more high-profile fight, despite Machida’s top five status in the 205-pound weight class.

Ortiz also stated during his appearance that it seems the fight against Machida will likely be his last for the UFC, at least at this time, due to contractual issues primarily concerning money.

While both fighters have verbally agreed to the bout, no contracts or agreements have been signed or announced by the UFC.

The fight between Machida and Ortiz is believed to be a part of the card that will feature a main event grudge match between new lightweight champion B.J. Penn and former champion Sean Sherk.