Kurt Holobaugh Earns UFC Contract, Moving Back to Featherweight Division

Stepping up on short notice and putting up a strong effort against Pat Healy will earn Kurt Holobaugh a shot in the UFC.

The young Louisiana based fighter took a fight on just over a week’s notice to step in and face Healy at the final Strikeforce card on Saturday night.

While he came up short, losing by decision to Healy, Holobaugh put up a valiant effort throughout the 15-minute affair.

Now he gets his shot to prove he belongs with the big boys when he transitions to the UFC later this year.

“I am very happy for Kurt and appreciative of the support and faith that Sean Shelby and the UFC have shown Kurt,” said Holobaugh’s managed Lex McMahon from Alchemist MMA when confirmed his move to the UFC to MMAWeekly.com
on Tuesday.

“I’m excited for Kurt to have the opportunity to showcase his skill and tenacity at his true weight class of 145lbs and with the benefit of a full camp.”

Holobaugh does normally compete at featherweight, but with the chance to step up and face an opponent the caliber of Healy on short notice, he jumped at the chance.

Now Holobaugh will move to the UFC and look to establish himself in the 145lb division this year.