Locals light up UFC Beijing bill

The Ultimate Fighting Championship is primed to further its presence in China by showcasing local fighters at its Beijing debut.

UFC, the world's premier mixed martial arts promotion, on Thursday announced a string of top Chinese talent, such as hometown hero Li Jingliang and women's flyweight fighter Wu Yanan, for the UFC Fight Night Beijing at west Beijing's Cadillac Arena on Nov 24.

Topping the bill is the heavyweight clash between Curtis Blaydes (10-1) of the United States and Cameroon's rising star Francis Ngannou (11-3), a highly anticipated rematch between two of the division's biggest hitters.