Newly crowned WEC Lightweight Champion, Jamie Varner (14-2), will return to defend his 155-pound belt for the first time ever against Marcus Hicks (8-0) on August 3, according to MMAWeekly.com.
It's the second title fight slated for the show -- WEC Light Heavyweight Champion Brian Stann is also expected to defend his 205-pound title against Steve Cantwell.
"The Worm" is fresh off an impressive knockout of then-WEC champion, "Razor" Rob McCullough, at WEC 32 back February, defeating the heavy-handed champion at his own game. It was his third straight win and second consecutive victory under the WEC banner.
Varner will certainly have to bring his "A" game -- "The Wrecking Ball" is no slouch.
In fact, Hicks is one of the hottest (and most compact) fighters in the promotion, winning his last three fights in the WEC, and overall, is riding an eight fight win streak. He has defeated the likes of Ed Ratcliff and Sergio Gomez en route to being the number one contender in the division.
Put simply, the Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt -- who also has some pro boxing experience -- will be a stiff challenge for Varner
Stay tuned for more fight announcements and other news in the next few days as WEC 34: "Faber vs Pulver" is set for this weekend -- the organization will certainly look to promote upcoming events on the biggest night in its history.
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