The UFC's upcoming return to London on March 22 has a surprise addition according to a recent report about a new bout being added to the card.
Gunnar Nelson will make his Octagon return at the O2 Arena when he takes on Kevin Holland at welterweight.
MMA Fighting confirmed with multiple sources that the fight has been verbally agreed to following an initial report from KrazyKevMMA.
Nelson's last two fights and wins have both come in London but he has been inactive since UFC 286 in March of 2023 where he submitted Bryan Barbarena in the first round.
"Gunni" has been dipping in and out of activity for some time, having only fought three times since his loss to Leon Edwards at the O2 Arena in March of 2019.
The 36-year old Icelandic grappling specialist has 15 UFC bouts under his belt with a staggering 14 of his 19 pro wins coming by way of submission.
His return at 170-pounds will take place against an opponent who has a very different record in recent times.
Holland has always been one of the most active fighters on the roster as the joint record holder for most UFC wins in a calendar year with five.
In fact, "Trailblazer" has already fought once this year having been in action at the first PPV card of the year, UFC 311.
His fight with another big submission threat in Reinier de Ridder didn't go his way after he was submitted by the Dutchman in the opening round at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles.
This bout will see Holland drop back down to welterweight after making his last three appearances up at middleweight.
The UK fans are going to love having a fan favourite like "Trailblazer" on the card but they also love to get behind "Gunni", especially when there's an opportunity to dust off the Viking Clap.