Mirko 'Cro Cop' Filipovic set to return to the UFC

The feared Croatian striker will be making his return to The Octagon (via Mirko's blog)

I decided to fight in the UFC again, because of the stronger competition in the heavyweight division. My next opponent will be Mustapha Al-Turk. I didn't do well in my first three appearances - I wasn't myself. By returning to the cage I want to prove that I can still fight at highest level, no matter when or where. It's hard to talk about concrete plans, but I would really like to fight at least three times this year. I wish to fight against quality opponents and to fight my way up to a title shot but for now, I'll focus only on my next fight and after that we'll see what's going to be on the menu next. I want to say thank you Mr. Dana White for your interest and for an invitation back to the UFC. I owe you a lot from our first deal, and I'll make it up to you.    

Mirko Filipovic is the former Pride 2006 Open-Weight Grand Prix winner. After a successful career in Japan including victories over Wanderlei Silva, Josh Barnett, Aleksander Emelianenko, Mark Coleman and Heath Herring, 'Cro Cop' came to the UFC following Zuffa's purchase of Pride.

Many considered Filipovic a top heavyweight fighter, he had lost a narrow decision to Fedor Emelianenko and was also defeated by Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira, Kevin Randleman and Mark Hunt.

However once in the UFC 'Cro Cop's' career took a disappointing slide. While he defeated Eddie Sanchez, Mirko was brutally KO'd by Brazilian upstart Gabriel Gonzaga, preventing a dream match between the Croatian and Randy Couture.

Filipovic followed the shocking loss with another to Frenchman Cheick Kongo. After going 1-2 in the UFC 'Cro Cop' was cut, his legacy tarnished.

Since then he has fought in Dream going 2-0 with one no contest.

It has long been rumored that 'Cro Cop' would return to the UFC.  His oppoent will be the Brit, Mustapha Al-Turk.

[UPDATE: Note by Zak Woods, 05/18/09 6:57 PM EDT ]

Dana White confirmed to Dave Meltzer that Mirko Filipovic will fight Mustapha Al-Turk at UFC 99 in Cologne, Germany.