Baroni Signs with Titan FC, Fights on March 25

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Phil Baroni is once again employed.

Less than two weeks after his loss to Brad Tavares at UFC 125 and subsequent release from the promotion, the “New York Bad Ass” has signed a multi-fight contract with Kansas-based Titan Fighting Championships. Baroni will make his return to the ring at the company’s March 25 event.

The name of Baroni’s opponent and details on the event are expected to be released in the coming weeks.

“Since Phil’s departure from the UFC, many fight fans have been wondering what Phil’s next move would be,” Titan Fighting CEO Joe Kelly said in a press release. “I am proud to announce that Phil has signed a multi-fight deal with Titan and will be featured during our March event.

“Phil has a star quality to him that so few fighters have, and win or lose he has always fought with a true warrior’s mentality."

Baroni enters his new home on the heels of three straight losses, including consecutive defeats which ended his second run in the Octagon. Fighting in his first UFC bout in nearly five years, the 34-year-old dropped a unanimous decision to “The Ultimate Fighter” Season 7 winner Amir Sadollah at UFC 106.

Over a year later, Baroni made his return to the middleweight division against Tavares at UFC 125. After flooring the younger fighter with a left hook early on, Baroni caught Tavares with an accidental low blow. Following his recovery, Tavares staggered Baroni with a high kick and followed up with a flurry of punches that finished the veteran.

“I’m very happy and excited to re-start my career with Titan Fighting in Kansas City,” said Baroni. “I have another chapter to write and it starts March 25. People love a comeback.”

A veteran of Pride Fighting Championships, Baroni holds notable victories over Ryo Chonan, Ikuhisa Minowa and Dave Menne.