Strikeforce Veteran Lorenz Larkin to Lock Horns with Francis Carmont at UFC on Fox 7

Promotion officials announced the pairing on Saturday. UFC on Fox 7 takes place at the HP Pavilion in San Jose, Calif., and features a lightweight title clash between reigning champion Benson Henderson and former Strikeforce ruler Gilbert Melendez.

Unbeaten in 14 professional fights, Larkin’s lone career defeat – a loss to Muhammed Lawal at Strikeforce “Rockhold vs. Jardine” – was ruled a no-contest when “King Mo” failed a post-fight drug test. “Monsoon” has competed once since then, taking a three-round verdict against veteran slugger Robbie Lawler in July. The 26-year-old Milennia MMA product has finished eight of his 13 victims by way of knockout or technical knockout.

A training partner of welterweight king Georges St. Pierre, Carmont is unbeaten in four Octagon appearances. “Limitless” went 3-0 in 2012, earning Octagon triumphs over Magnus Cedenblad, Karlos Vemola and Tom Lawlor. The 31-year-old Tristar Gym product has finished 16 of his 20 career victories by knockout, technical knockout or submission.