Strikeforce MMA will continue its run on the premium cable network, Showtime, with an event headlined by journeyman Duane "Bang" Ludwig (18-8) and one of the top undefeated prospects on the promotion's roster, Lyle "Fancy Pants" Beerbohm (9-0), on June 19, according to FiveOuncesOfPain.com.
A venue has not yet been announced for what's likely to be the second part in the brand new Strikeforce Challenger Series.
"Fancy Pants" has stormed through nine relatively unknown opponents to this point in his career, including a hard fought comeback win against the previously undefeated Rafaello Oliveira during his last appearance under the Sho XC banner last October.
Only once has a fight involving Beerbohm gone to the judge's scorecards. His other eight victims have all tasted defeat before the final bell (four by submission and four by technical knockout).
The aggressive finisher was considered as a replacement for injured lightweight champion Josh "The Punk" Thomson to face Gilbert Melendez on the "Shamrock vs. Diaz" card a couple of weeks ago, but he eventually gave way to Brazilian fighter Rodrigo Damm instead.
Ludwig will be a huge step up in competition for the Spokane, Wash., resident. "Bang" has been all over the MMA world, competing for 10 different promotions over his nine year career, including the UFC, King of the Cage, Sengoku, Strikeforce and others.
The High Altitude product from Denver, Colo., hasn't been shy about facing the best fighters in the world either. He's seen action against guys like Takanori Gomi (loss), BJ Penn (loss), Josh Thomson (loss), Jens Pulver (win), Thomas Denny (win), Tyson Griffin (loss), Genki Sudo (win), Paul Daley (loss) and most recently on the Strikeforce: "Destruction" card last November against Yves Edwards (win).
Both of these fighters like to push the pace and won't be scared to stand and trade strikes. Expect nothing short of fireworks in this lightweight scrap -- this is another solid match up from the Strikeforce brass.
Keep it locked on MMAmania.com for all your Strikeforce news and updates.
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