Petruzelli back in the UFC

A star of Season 2 of The UFC’s Ultimate Fighter series, former KOTC champion and two time K-1 competitor and original conqueror of Kimbo Slice, Seth Petruzelli returns to the big stage July 3 at UFC 116. It has been a long road back to the octagon for the fighter based out of Orlando, Florida. While riding a four fight winning steak, dating back to 2007, Petruzelli has been waiting in the wings for his time to come.


After winning a unanimous decision over MMA legend Dan Severn at KOTC 32 in Miami, Petruzelli joined the cast of The Ultimate Fighter on Spike TV. Chosen as a member of Team (Rich) Franklin with Keith Jardine, Rashad Evans and Brad Imes, Petruzelli beat 6’8 Dan Christison in his first bout on the popular Spike TV show. Following a split decision loss to Brad Imes in the semi finals, Petruzelli lost a tough battle against Matt Hamill on the Ken Shamrock-Tito Ortiz 3 under card at the Seminole Hard Rock. The fight was awarded as Fight of the Night and both fighters were given bonuses.


After a loss to Wilson Gouveia at UFC Fight Night 9, Petruzelli was cut from the UFC. After fighting on a local card in Orlando, newly formed EliteXC signed the talented fighter to a contract. In his first fight for the new organization, Petruzelli was scheduled to fight against Aaron Rosa on the under card of internet sensation Kimbo Slice and MMA legend Ken Shamrock on CBS. However, following an accident that caused a severe cut to Shamrock, Petruzelli was asked on short notice to fill in to fight Kimbo on CBS. What followed that night, in front of Slice’s hometown fans, and millions watching live on television, stunned the world. Petruzelli knocked out Slice in just mere seconds. Many people thought that Seth Petruzelli’s big opportunity would come after his career defining victory, but EliteXC closed there doors soon after, leaving him out in the cold.

Since then, Petruzelli has had several bouts fall through including fights with Ken Shamrock and Houston Alexander. But that hasn’t stopped him from working hard and trying to get back into the UFC. Since the Slice fight, Petruzelli opened up the Jungle MMA gym in Orlando, Florida where he trains fellow UFC fighters Clayton “Money Shot” McKinney and Tom “The Filthy Mauler” Lawlor. In fact, Petruzelli performed in Lawlor’s epic ring entrance.

After a victory in England in May, the call he had been waiting for came. Ricardo Romero’s original opponent had backed out and the UFC called the veteran to return to the octagon. The wait is over and on Saturday night, “The Silverback” plans to shine.