Lawlor makes UFC return against Koscheck

Anaheim - “Ruthless” Robbie Lawlor will be returning to the UFC this February to take on former number one contender Josh Koscheck, organization officials announced on Thursday.

The two MMA veterans have verbally agreed to meet at UFC 157 in Anaheim, California on Feb. 23. Lawlor (19-9-1), who came to fame back in 2002 when he fought on the first U.S. televised UFC bout, will be dropping down to welterweight, a division which he competed at early in his career. Though he was vibrant early on in his UFC career –defeating three opponents in roll- he lost his stride and was subsequently dropped by the organization after two straight losses. Lawlor moved up to middleweight in his last UFC bout. Since his departure with the company, he was able to find success, as he was the Elite XC middleweight champion, and was able to get to the top of the 185 lb mountain to compete for the Strikeforce middleweight belt. Koscheck (17-6), an “Ultimate Fighter” original, hasn’t stepped into the octagon since May, where he lost a close decision to contender Johny Hendricks. He was expected to face Jake Ellenberger last September, but was forced out of the fight due to a back injury. “Kos” competed for the welterweight title back at UFC 124, but was dominated by current division champion Georges St. Pierre. UFC 157 will feature the first ever women’s bout inside the octagon, where 135 lb champion Ronda Rousey will defend her brand new UFC belt against Liz Carmouche. In addition to UFC firsts, Carmouche will be the first openly gay fighter to compete inside the octagon. As well, other bouts announced include a light heavyweight battle between former champions Dan Henderson and Lyoto Machida, and former WEC featherweight champion Uriah Faber will meet Ivan Menjivar. Chad “Money” Mendes versus Manvel Gamburyan, and Dennis Bermudez versus Matt Grice will also be showcased in this event.