Regional martial arts promotion FFC (Final Fight Championship) has signed a contract with former UFC champion Ricco Rodriguez who will have three fights in the FFC already during 2013. Fight Site learned this exclusive information from the head of the Fight Channel and FFC promoter Orsat Zovko.

Rodriguez should make his debut at the FFC05 event planned for late May, and Zovko said that it is still unknown who will be the opponent for this legendary fighter. The promoter did, however, reveal that the Rodriguez fight will be the main event and that an equally renowned name will be on the opposite side of the ring.

In the course of his eventful career Rodriguez has recorded 49 wins and 19 losses, including victories over the likes of Andrei Arlovski, Jeff Monson and Randy Couture. This American with Mexican roots has achieved success in the UFC, the legendary Pride, WEC and a host of other very respectable organizations. Croatian martial arts fans had a chance to see him live in December last year at the Gladiator Night 7 where he lost to one of Croatia's biggest talents – Ante Delija.

"We are happy that we've reached an agreement with Rodriguez since he is a great fighter and top professional. I believe that at the age of 35 he still has a lot more to offer, and you'll definitely see some of that in the FFC," Zovko said for Fight Site, adding:

"This is just the beginning in building our promotion's roster, and names like Rodriguez as essential since they have given a lot to this sport. You'll be able to see the new Final Fight identity and the first MMA bouts in our promotion already this Friday in Split at the FFC03 event headlined by Jurkovic and Catinas. We guarantee some top quality fights and great entertainment," Zovko concluded.