Yamamoto (18-3) is in active talks with the UFC, sources close to the organization confirmed with MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com).
If signed, his debut could come as soon as February or March.
During a conference call Tuesday in support of the WECo39;s final event, WEC 53, MMAjunkie.com asked WEC General Manager Reed Harris whether the merger could set the stage for a new influx of Japanese talent.
"I know that we are actively working on that as we speak," Harris said.
Harris declined to mention any names who are under consideration.
UFC president Dana White, meanwhile, often has expressed interest in bringing Yamamoto aboard, though he hasno39;t addressed the possibility since the merger became a reality.
"Io39;ve been a o39;Kido39; Yamamoto fan for a long time," White said following UFC 94. "Io39;d love to get him over here.
"Thereo39;s two fights left on [Yamamotoo39;s] K-1 contract, and he told me his dream is to end his career over here with us. So Io39;d like to see it happen."
If signed, his debut could come as soon as February or March.
During a conference call Tuesday in support of the WECo39;s final event, WEC 53, MMAjunkie.com asked WEC General Manager Reed Harris whether the merger could set the stage for a new influx of Japanese talent.
"I know that we are actively working on that as we speak," Harris said.
Harris declined to mention any names who are under consideration.
UFC president Dana White, meanwhile, often has expressed interest in bringing Yamamoto aboard, though he hasno39;t addressed the possibility since the merger became a reality.
"Io39;ve been a o39;Kido39; Yamamoto fan for a long time," White said following UFC 94. "Io39;d love to get him over here.
"Thereo39;s two fights left on [Yamamotoo39;s] K-1 contract, and he told me his dream is to end his career over here with us. So Io39;d like to see it happen."
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