UFC Signs Heavyweight Knockout Artist Soa 'The Hulk' Palelei

(Pictured: Soa Palelei)

Heavyweight finisher Soa "The Hulk" Palelei (18-3) has inked a four-fight deal with the Ultimate Fighting Championship on the heels of eight consecutive victories.

Palelei's management team at Paradigm Sports Management announced the signing on Monday.

“I'm thankful to Dana White and Joe Silva for giving me this opportunity to come back to the UFC to showcase my skills," said Palelei. "With determination, hard work and a great team, I’m happy to say that today I have signed with the UFC. I look forward to competing in the best organization in the world.”

An 11-year veteran, Palelei previously competed for the likes of Shooto and PRIDE before making his Octagon debut at 2007's UFC 79. A technical knockout defeat to Eddie Sanchez would cut his UFC run short, though the Australian slugger has since gone 10-1 — the lone defeat of his current streak having been against world-ranked heavyweight Daniel Cormier.

At 6'4, 265-pounds, the 35-year-old Palelei has scored all 18 of his career victories by form of knockout, including stoppages of UFC veterans Brad Morris, Christian Wellisch and Sean McCorkle.