Looks like the "Troops" can get ready for war.
That's because heavyweight brawlers Pat Barry and Joey Beltran have agreed to hook 'em up at the upcoming UFC "Fight for the Troops" event on Jan. 22, 2011, in Fort Hood, Texas, according to MMA Weekly.
Barry hasn't been seen since breaking some bones in his UFC 115 loss to Mirko "Cro Cop" Filipovic back on June 12. His recovery process has been a lengthy one, but after helping Brock Lesnar prepare for Cain Velasquez at UFC 121, the stocky striker will get the chance to do some preparing himself for his pending scrap with "The Mexicutioner."
"HD" is 5-2 in his short career under the UFC banner with all five wins coming by way of (technical) knockout and both losses coming via submission.
Fortunately for the 'Nawlins native, the ground game isn't exactly Beltran's specialty.
Beltran opened his Octagon career by steamrolling Rolles Gracie and outlasting Tim Hague before falling to the hands of the surprisingly efficient Matt Mitrione. It's going to be boxer versus kickboxer in what should be an explosive fight.
Knockout of the night, perhaps?
Although just recently announced, the second "Fight for the Troops" offering is coming together rather quickly. The main event is expected to feature lightweight stalwart Kenny Florian taking on up-and-comer Evan Dunham, while fellow 155-pounder Melvin Guillard has been booked to wage war with Yves Edwards.
Also rumored for the Jan. 22 event is the welterweight return of Mike "Quick" Swick, taking on David Mitchell coupled with a heavyweight tilt between Matt Mitrione and the aforementioned Hague.
Stay tuned to MMAmania.com for more updates on this still-developing fight card.
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