Once one of the UFC’s most intriguing welterweight prospects, Erick Silva is set to make a fresh start.
The 33-year-old Brazilian makes his Legacy Fighting Alliance debut on July 20 when he fights Nick Barnes (12-3) in the main event of LFA 45 at the Morongo Casino Outdoor Pavilion in Cabazon, Calif.
Silva’s contract with the UFC expired following his unanimous decision loss to Jordan Mein last December and he was in talks with several promotions before Wednesday’s announcement by the LFA. He lost four of his last five fights inside the Octagon.
When he debuted with the UFC in August 2011, Silva (19-9, 1 NC) emerged as a potential contender at 170 pounds, earning a reputation as a lightning fast finisher (six of Silva’s UFC wins came in the first round). However, he also became known for his inconsistency, alternating wins and losses in his first eight fights and eventually ending his run inside the Octagon with a 7-8 record.
Barnes will be looking to bounce back himself after suffering a second-round knockout loss to Curtis Millender at LFA 30 in January. “The Phoenix” has won three of his last five fights.