Jason ‘Mayhem’ Miller Comes Out of Retirement, Faces Luke Barnatt at Venator FC III

Venator Fighting Championship announced on Tuesday that it has signed Jason “Mayhem” Miller.

Miller (28-9, 1 NC), one of the most popular, charismatic and controversial fighters in the sport, has fought professionally since 1998, and holds notable wins over Robbie Lawler, Tim Kennedy, Kazushi Sakuraba and Denis Kang. He has also fought elite talents throughout his mixed martial arts tenure, against names the likes of: Georges St-Pierre, “Jacaré” Souza, Chael Sonnen, Michael Bisping and Jake Shields.

Miller has had several brushes with the law over the years. Most recently he was arrested in October for assault with a deadly weapon on a peace officer. In 2014, he engaged in a standoff with a SWAT team at his home. In 2013, he was arrested twice for domestic violence. In 2012,he was arrested and charged with misdemeanor vandalism of a church.

“Mayhem” Miller is a beast. He is one of the most beloved fighters of all times and people have badly missed such a performer with guts, attitude and at the same time a strong will to win big and to entertain” Venator FC President Frank Merenda said. “He’s a huge, huge achievement for Venator FC to have him back in the saddle for the fans all around the world.”

Miller, 35-years-old, has not competed since May 2012 when he lost to C.B. Dollaway by unanimous decision at UFC 146. Prior to the fight, Miller stated that he would retire if he lost. The following the event, UFC president Dana White announced that Miller was released by the organization.

For his return fight he will compete for middleweight gold against current Venator FC champion Luke “Big Slow” Barnatt (9-3) at the newly announced Venator FC III card on May 21 from the Palasesto Arena in Milan, Italy.

“Luke Barnatt is coming back defending his belt after a terrific battle with the italian Mattia Schiavolin at Venator FC II that showed to the world the tremendous hearth this guy has” Venator FC matchmaker Alex Dandi said.

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