Rustam Khabilov
Russian lightweight prospect Rustam Khabilov (14-1) will reportedly face TUF: Live cast member Vinc Pichel (6-0) at the upcoming TUF 16 Finale this December, marking the Octagon debut for both fighters.
News of the bout is being reported by ValeTudo.ru, who posted the news earlier this week.
The Ultimate Fighter 16 Finale is expected to take place on December 15, 2012 at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. The event will be headlined by the final for this falls reality series as well as a heavyweight bout between coaches Shane Carwin and Roy ‘Big Country’ Nelson.
Khabilov signed with the UFC this past summer and brings in a three fight win streak into his debut. The Russian is an accomplished World Combat Sambo Champion who has spent most of his career competing under the M-1 banner. His last match was a 160-lbs catchweight bout in May, with a decision victory over Jason Dent at a Pure MMA event. Khabilov also debuted with ONE FC this past February by defeating Rodrigo Ribeiro by decision at the Jakarta show.
Pichel was a member of Team Cruz on the TUF: Live series who made it into the semifinals only to lose to Team Faber’s Al Iaquinta. He was to debut against James Vick last June in the Octagon but Vick failed to receive clearance to compete and the bout was scrapped completely. Pichel is undefeated as a pro, finishing all six of his opponents by (T)KO. His last pro-match took place in August 2011, with a second round TKO finish of opponent David Gardner.