Rumors began circulating last week about a middleweight matchup at UFC 82 on March 1 in Columbus, Ohio between Chris Leben and Alessio Sakara. ProElite.com (SamCaplan.ProElite.com) has confirmed through Leben's management that a bout between Leben and Sakara is indeed scheduled to take place.

"Yes, we fight Sakara in Columbus." said manager T. Jay Thompson when contacted for comment via e-mail.

Thompson, who is also the promoter of the ICON Sport promotion in Hawaii, also added, "Chris has been in training camp for the last four weeks and is excited to test himself against Sakara."

Sakara, 12-6, last competed at UFC 80 on January 19, where he disposed of former PRIDE competitor James Lee at 1:30 of round 1 via TKO due to strikes. UFC 82 will mark his first fight since dropping from light heavyweight to middleweight.

Leben is 17-4 overall and 7-3 lifetime in the UFC. He last competed at UFC Fight Night 11 in September, recording a third round knockout victory over Terry Martin.

Leben has recorded notable wins in the UFC over the likes of Jorge Rivera and Patrick Cote and also holds victories over Mike Swick and Benji Radach in fights contested outside of the UFC.

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Sam Caplan

Lead Writer/Editor - ProElite.com

SamCaplan.ProElite.com