World ranked middleweight Robbie Lawler (18-6) has agreed to a new multi-year deal with Strikeforce, the promotion announced on Dec. 29.
Often considered one of the top ten 185-pounders in the world, the heavy-hitting Lawler, who has also competed for the UFC, PRIDE, and EliteXC, is the second big name to re-sign with Strikeforce this week. Yesterday Strikeforce announced that welterweight champion Nick Diaz also agreed to extend his stay with the organization.
Lawler has gone 2-2 with Strikeforce. His two setbacks came against current UFC contender Jake Shields and light heavyweight Renato “Babalu” Sobral in a catchweight bout. However, Lawler bounced back in a big way from the Sobral loss, knocking out longtime veteran Matt Lindland in quick and stunning fashion on Dec. 4.
In his next fight, Lawler will face current Strikeforce middleweight champ Ronaldo “Jacare” Souza on Jan. 29 in San Jose, Calif.