With UFC 139's stellar main event already in tow, a premier featherweight bout has now been added to the fold. According to promotion officials, rising contenders Erik Koch (13-1) and Dustin Poirier (11-1) will put four-fight win streaks on the line in a bout likely to determine the next challenger to the 145-pound ladder.
Koch, a 23-year-old prospect from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, last competed at UFC Fight Night 25, seizing a narrow decision over former-TUF winner Jonathan Brookins. The win capped off a 5-1 Zuffa run for "New Breed", including a "Knockout of the Night" victory over Raphael Assuncao in his UFC debut.
Meanwhile, Poirier makes a quick turnaround after submitting Pablo Garza via D'Arce choke at last Saturday's UFC on Fox undercard. The 22-year-old now claims an impressive 3-0 UFC record, including decision victories over Josh Grispi and Jason Young.
UFC 143 takes place February 4th, at the Mandalay Bay Events Centers in Las Vegas, Nevada. Welterweight champion Georges St. Pierre defends his belt against brash challenger Nick Diaz in the night's main event.
UFC 143 fight card:
Welterweight Championship: Georges St. Pierre vs. Nick Diaz
Welterweight: Carlos Condit vs. Josh Koscheck
Featherweight: Erik Koch vs. Dustin Poirier