Top 5 Stories of the Week

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Submission specialist Rousimar Palhares has found a new home.

Sherdog.com on Nov. 26 confirmed with World Series of Fighting President Ray Sefo that Palhares has signed an exclusive deal with the Las Vegas-based organization. World Series of Fighting officials have not yet announced when “Toquinho” will make his promotional debut.

Palhares was banned from the Octagon following his welterweight debut at UFC Fight Night 29 last month, when the leg lock specialist submitted Mike Pierce with a heel hook in just 31 seconds. However, the Brazilian did not immediately release the hold after Pierce tapped out, prompting Ultimate Fighting Championship President Dana White to announce his release just one day later. The Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt previously received a 90-day disciplinary suspension in 2010 after performing a similar act against Tomasz Drwal at UFC 111. “Toquinho” was also suspended by the UFC for nine months after producing elevated testosterone levels following his knockout loss to Hector Lombard in December 2012.

Known for his potent ground game, Palhares exited the UFC with a promotional record of 8-4, earning six victories via submission. A longtime middleweight, Palhares saw his four Octagon defeats come against stiff competition, falling to the likes of Lombard, Dan Henderson, Nate Marquardt and Alan Belcher.

The stories of interest on Sherdog.com this week:

Playing With Fire

Scoring Overhaul Needed

Breaking Barriers

Rematch Makes Sense

Tragic Event

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