Canadian lightweight star Chris Horodecki (14-2) will be searching for his first win under the WEC banner on June 20 -- though it won't be against original opponent Ed Ratcliff due to a recent injury that forced "9mm" to withdraw from their Edmonton showdown.
WEC officials yesterday announced promotion newcomer Danny Downes (6-0) has stepped up on short notice to take his place on the televised portion of the WEC 49: "Varner vs. Shalorus" fight card airing at 9 p.m. ET via the Versus network.
Horodecki made his WEC debut last December, but was given a very rude welcome by Anthony Njokuani, who stopped "The Polish Hammer" via first round technical knockout. It was just the second loss for the former IFL standout who looks to make good on his much-talked about potential.
Of course Downes has a rare opportunity to capitalize on Ratcliff's misfortune and will no doubt be looking to extend his undefeated streak to seven straight.
Danny "Boy" trains under Duke Roufus and has five of his six wins come by way of technical knockout, including a first round stoppage over Bruce Johnson at King of the Cage (KOTC): "Turbulence 2" back in April.
WEC 49: "Varner vs. Shalorus" pits former lightweight champion Jamie Varner (16-3) against undefeated up-and-comer Kamal Shalorus (6-0-1). Featherweight phenom Josh Grispi (13-1) also returns to take on the hard-hitting L.C. Davis (16-2).
For the complete WEC 49 line-up click here.
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