Diego Sanchez signs representation agreement with First Round Management

Miami, Fla. - UFC Welterweight star Diego “The Dream” Sanchez has signed a representation contract with First Round Management, joining a high-profile list of fighters with the agency, President and C.E.O. Malki Kawa announced today.

The 29 year-old Sanchez, a Welterweight (170 lbs.), has established himself as one of the top fighters in the world, posting a 25-4 career record since making his mixed martial arts debut in 2002. 14 of those wins have come via KO, TKO or submission.  His next scheduled fight is Sept. 24 at UFC 135 against Matt Hughes.

"It is one of my goals to become the best fighter in the world, and I believe signing with First Round Management will help me keep a complete focus on my training while extending my brand as a fighter," Sanchez stated.

First Round Management will manage and negotiate fight contracts, marketing and publicity on behalf of Sanchez.

In 2005, Sanchez put his name on the MMA map by winning the first season of the UFC’s reality show The Ultimate Fighter at Middleweight.  His victory over Clay Guida in 2009 was named the Fight of the Year by the UFC and multiple MMA media outlets.

In 2010, Sanchez returned to the Welterweight division from Lightweight and has won his last two UFC bouts by unanimous decisions.

"Diego Sanchez is one of the top stars in MMA. To be able to add him to the First Round Management roster is exciting for our team. He is a great personality and a better fighter. We look forward to working with him as his career continues to flourish," Kawa said.

Sanchez, a former New Mexico high school state wrestling champion, trains in his hometown of Albuquerque, N.M. under legendary MMA coach Greg Jackson.