New Zealand's next UFC event is set for an explosive main event with American Derrick 'The Black Beast' Lewis claiming he will meet Kiwi Mark Hunt in Auckland on June 11
Lewis made the announcement following reports in multiple American MMA media outlets that the heavyweight showdown was being targeted as the headline act for the UFC's return to Vector Arena.
However, the UFC is yet to confirm the bout.
"My next opponent is Mark Hunt in New Zealand June 10th," Lewis tweeted.
Hunt (12-11-1-1) is coming off a third-round TKO loss to Alistair Overeem earlier this month and has to wait until April 19 for a medical clearance after suffering a leg injury.
But the potential match-up would have huge appeal with Lewis rivalling the 'Super Samoan' as the hardest hitting fighter in the organisation.
The 32-year-old (18-4-1) has surged up to sixth in the heavyweight rankings thanks to a six-fight win streak.
He called out Hunt following his most recent victory over Travis Browne in February, and Hunt was only happy to oblige.
"I've never had an issue with fighting anybody in the world, all I ask for is that they not be cheating or using steroids. Then we can fight in the car park if they want, I don't care," Hunt told Stuff ahead of the bout against Overeem.
"If Derrick Lewis wants to get down then we can party whenever he wants. I like parties."
Should he be cleared, Hunt will be breaking new ground having never fought an MMA contest in New Zealand.
The South Auckland-born, Sydney-based fighter will also be looking for his first win in three bouts following the Overeem result and the controversial no-contest against Brock Lesnar at UFC 200 last July.
Photo: BRADLEY KANARIS/Getty Images (Kiwi Mark Hunt is set to feature in his first MMA contest in New Zealand).
Photo Below: TOM SZCZERBOWSKI/USA Today Sports (Derrick Lewis is on a six-fight winning streak).
