Wednesday DREAM, the new collaborative efforts between FEG (K-1, HERO’S) and former DSE staff (PRIDE), held a press conference to discuss future plans and a brand new signing.

PRIDE’s 2006 Open-Weight Grand Prix champion Mirko “Cro Cop” Filipovic has officially parted with the UFC and joined DREAM. “Cro Cop” went 1-2 in the UFC, winning in a mediocre showing and losing by knockout and decision. Prior to his UFC career he was neck and neck with Fedor Emelianenko for the top dog at heavyweight after defeating fighters such as Josh Barnett, Wanderlei Silva, Aleksander Emelianenko, and Igor Vovchanchyn.

Filipovic will make his DREAM debut on the upcoming March 15 card against a currently unknown opponent.

PDG has learned that his currently contract is for three fights over the next year. Details regarding his departure for the UFC are currently unavailable and PDG will have release the details ASAP.

Comments from other fighters about Cro Cop's Depature:

Kevin Randleman:

"My first response is oh well. I am not fighting in the UFC so it really doesn't matter to me one way or the other. Alot of people didn't believe in him anymore but he is good enough to win in the UFC. It takes time to adjust to the cage. I don't think it is good or bad for the sport and I am really not surprised that he left."

Mark Coleman:

"Basically, I could really care less. It was his choice, he came into the UFC and got whipped and now he left. I wouldn't say that I am suprised but now he is going to have to live with coming in, getting smashed and not finishing the job."

Bas Rutten:

"I feel bad to hear that he is leaving because I really wanted to see the Cro Cop that I knew from Japan because I think that he wasn't the same Cro Cop in the UFC, so I can understand if he wants to go to another organization. God Speed!!"

"Babalu" Sobral:

"I have heard of the new organization and I am surprised the UFC isn't suing him yet. Good for Cro Cop, he didn't have a good experience in the UFC so it is good that he is able to go fight somewhere else. He is a very good fighter."

Stay tuned to PunchDrunkGamer for more reaction from fighters!!!