Monson announces a fight against Taktarov

American mixed martial arts veteran Jeff Monson has announced that he will fight against prominent former UFC fighter Oleg Taktarov.

"As I've said before, I will be returning to MMA very soon. We recently agreed with the Hardcore MMA promotion to fight Oleg Taktarov. So the rumors were confirmed - the bout with Taktarov will take place after all.

"I remember him being one of my idols, I remember watching his triumph at UFC6 - he won the tournament then, became the champion. So it's an honor to fight him by MMA rules. It's going to be a real old-school fight. He and I have the same style, we both love fighting, we're about the same age. So it should be very interesting.

"Of course, in spite of the fight, Oleg and I are friends - I had a problem with my back, he helped me to heal it. Anyway, we'll be announcing a fight date soon, be ready!" Monson said.