ARES adds one-time UFC flyweight title challenger Wilson Reis to roster

Wilson Reis | Esther Lin, MMA Fighting

The ARES Fighting Championship has added a world championship contender to its ranks.

On Tuesday, the promotion announced the signing of one-time UFC flyweight title challenger Wilson Reis (23-10). The 35-year-old Brazilian last fought at UFC 236 in April 2019, where he lost to Alexandre Pantoja by first-round TKO.

In 13 UFC appearances competing primarily at 125 pounds, Reis went 7-6. A 5-1 stretch that included wins over Ulka Sasaki and Dustin Ortiz propelled him into a title shot against then-flyweight king Demetrious Johnson at UFC on FOX 24 in April 2017. Johnson defeated Reis by third-round submission.

Reis took part in four Bellator tournaments prior to joining the UFC, with three tournament appearances at 145 pounds and one at 135 pounds.

A debut date and opponent are yet to be announced for Reis.

Other recent notable flyweight signings for the budding ARES promotion include another UFC title challenger John Moraga (19-7), and veteran Hector Sandoval (15-4).