Faber on Rafael Assunção's back. Photo: Josh Hedges.

In the featherweight division where he once reigned supreme, Urijah Faber defeated some of the division’s biggest names. From Jeff Curran to Jens Pulver, the American held the title for two years, and now he arrives in the bantamweight division in pursuit of his second world title. To start off a new reign, “The California Kid” faces one of the division’s most talented fighters, Japanese sensation Takeya Mizugaki.

“I’m excited to be in a new division and test myself against the best in the world,” said Faber. “Mizugaki really is tough, but I’m ready to get back to work to become champion again,” said the thirty-three-year-old fighter.

The Japanese star upped his stock last year in a five-round battle with then-champion Miguel Angel Torres. Since then the twenty-six-year-old became one of the most feared bantamweights in the world. Having beaten Rani Yahya in his last outing, in April, Mizugaki (13-4-2) is keen to give Faber a rude welcome to the under-135 weight class.

“I’ve never backed down from a tough fight, that’s why I’m excited about fighting Urijah,” remarked the Japanese fighter. “His first fight in the division won’t be easy. All I’m thinking about is beating him come November 11,” he said in finishing.

And the WEC card is made all the more enticing with the other matchups to feature on the main card to be broadcast live from Las Vegas. Featherweights Chad Mendes and Javier Vazquez collide in a can’t missed fight, while former title challenger Joseph Benavidez squares off with Jiu-Jitsu black belt Wagnney Fabiano.

Check out the card:

WEC
Las Vegas, USA
November 11, 2010

Urijah Faber vs. Takeya Mizugaki

Joseph Benavidez vs. Wagnney Fabiano

Chade Mendes vs. Javier Vazquez

Eric Koch vs. Franciso Rivera

Damacio Page vs. Demetrious Johnson

Raphael Assunção vs. LC Davis

Anthony Njokuani vs. Edward Faaloloto

Zack Micklewright vs. Dustin Poirier

Clint Godfrey vs. Michael McDonald

Cub Swanson vs. Mackens Semerzier

Yves Jabouin vs. Brandon Visher