Shalorus Meets Newcomer Nurmagomedov at UFC on FX 1

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Kamal Shalorus returns to the cage on Jan. 20, promotion officials announced Thursday, as the “Prince of Persia” welcomes unbeaten Habib Nurmagomedov to the Octagon at UFC on FX 1.

Headlined by a pivotal lightweight confrontation between Jim Miller and Melvin Guillard, the event marks the first of six planned live shows to be broadcast on FX in 2012. Expected to emanate from Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tenn., the event will also feature a heavyweight contest pitting Christian Morecraft against Pat Barry.

A four-time WEC veteran, Shalorus earned victories over Will Kerr, Dave Jansen and Bart Palaszewski in the WEC before making his UFC debut at UFC 128.

Previously unbeaten in almost three years as a professional, Shalorus was knocked out by Miller in the third round of their March 19 showdown. Known for his superior wrestling and punching power, Shalorus owns four of his seven career wins by knockout.

Only 23 years old, Nurmagomedov already owns 16 pro fights to his credit and has yet to stumble in his three-year pro career. A veteran of M-1 competition, the Russian makes his North American debut at UFC on FX 1. The sambo specialist has earned an equal number of knockouts to submissions, finishing 12 opponents in total since beginning his career in 2008.