David Branch, former 2-division WSOF champ, returns to UFC with new deal

Former WSOF middleweight and light-heavyweight champion David Branch is now headed back to the UFC with a new multi-fight deal.

“I want to thank my fans for all of the amazing support you guys have given me on twitter this AM I’m happy to be back home @ufc,” Branch (20-3) tweeted today after a report of his signing from MMAFighting.com:

Earlier this month, Branch, who’s No. 8 in the USA TODAY Sports/MMAjunkie MMA middleweight rankings, vacated his belts and became a free agent, requesting his release from the WSOF after a reported falling out with the WSOF (via Twitter):

He most recently defended his middleweight title this past December at WSOF 34, submitting Louis Taylor for his 10th straight win.

Branch hasn’t fallen short in the cage since a decision loss to current UFC light heavyweight contender Anthony Johnson in the Titan FC promotion. He left the UFC in 2011 on the heels of a loss to Rousimar Palhares, ending a 2-2 stint with the industry-leader.

Now headed back to a promotion revamped after its acquisition by WME-IMG, Branch is expected to compete at middleweight, per the report. A May debut is possible against an opponent to be determined.

For more on the UFC’s upcoming schedule, check out the UFC Rumors section of MMAjunkie.