The UFC has inked a deal with the number two featherweight in the world, Hatsu Hioki. The UFC announced the signing via their Twitter page earlier today.

No date or opponent was given for his debut with the organization.

Hioki had been the featherweight title holder for the struggling Sengoku promotion over in Japan, but like Jorge Santiago he relinquished his belt and decided to come stateside. He had compiled a 24-4-2 record during his career.

Speculation ran rampant over the past few weeks following Hioki giving up his Sengoku title. Many pegged the fighter to sign with the UFC, but others felt that he would end up in Bellator with Marlon Sandro. However, once word leaked that Hioki would be attending UFC 131 many felt that has future had been sewn up.

Over the course of the past 14 bouts Hioki managed to amass a 12-1-1 record, with the lone loss coming via controversial split decision against current UFC fighter Michihiro Omigawa. 

The Japanese star holds notable wins over Jeff Curran, Ronnie Mann and Sandro. He has also defeated former UFC title challenger Mark Hominick twice.