Former KSW double champ who knocked out Dricus du Plessis finally signs with UFC

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The UFC Welterweight division just got even more exciting.

According to a first report from Pelunaton, Roberto Soldic has officially signed with the UFC and will be competing at 170 pounds. Croatia’s “Robocop” may not be a household name in the US, but the ferocious knockout artist is a highly accomplished finisher. 21-4 overall, the former KSW double champion has finished 18 of his foes via knockout. Per the same source, Soldic is rumored (but not confirmed) to debut at UFC 334 on Nov. 14 in New York against an elite opponent.

Those who don’t know Soldic are in for a treat. During his KSW run, Soldic split a pair of bouts with former UFC Middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis, as both men knocked out the other once. In 2022, Soldic signed with One Championship, but his career there didn’t go as planned. In three fights spread across four years, Soldic suffered a gruesome nut shot, was knocked cold in a massive upset, and then scored his own brutal finish to leave the company on a victory.

“Robocop” remains just 31 years old.

It’s great to see another high-profile signing straight to the UFC roster. A large majority of new signees join the promotion via Contender Series or as short-notice replacements, but an accomplished killer like Soldic deserves the respect and money that comes with a more direct contract.

Who should Soldic face in his debut? A fellow knockout artist like Uros Medic could make for a dynamic introduction to UFC fans.