Former UFC Lightweight Star Roger Huerta Returns to ONE FC After Two-Year Hiatus

After two years away from the sport, former UFC lightweight Roger “El Matador” Huerta is ready to return to fighting.

After spending much of his time teaching, Huerta’s return has been sparked by his teammates and the foundation of support they afford him.

“I’ve been coaching MMA full time at Tiger Muay Thai in Phuket, Thailand, and enjoying life on this island,” Huerta told MMAWeekly.com.

“The reason for my return to fighting is because of my guys out here, Team Banter.  They’ve really pushed me hard in training and given me the encouragement to compete again and I feel I can do well with a solid core of guys around me.”

At one time, Huerta was one of the sport’s top prospects, but in recent years has hit a rough patch, losing six of his last seven fights. Huerta feels that when he makes his ONE FC return on Aug. 29, he’ll be ready to turn things around.

“I’ve tried to keep up with the evolution of MMA,” said Huerta. “Hopefully I’ll get to show that come fight night.”

On Aug. 29 in Dubai, UAE, Huerta (21-7-1, 1NC) will take on ONE FC promotional newcomer Christian Holley (10-0) in a feature bout.

“Holley is a tough opponent who no one has been able to beat yet,” said Huerta. “Hopefully I’ll get to solve that puzzle when we fight each other.”

Now that he’s back fighting, Huerta isn’t looking too far ahead. His focus is firmly on his upcoming fight, and whatever comes after that is fine with him.

“First and only goal at the moment is to get a win on Aug. 29 in Dubai against Holley,” said Huerta. “Don’t miss the biggest event that ONE FC has put on to date. This is going to be a huge night of action!”