Ryan LaFlare makes his return to the octagon at UFC Atlantic City against Alex Garcia

It’s been a long time since Ryan LaFlare has entered an octagon. After a long layoff, the man hailing from Lindenhurst, Long Island, NY will face off against Alex Garcia at UFC’s return to Atlantic City on April 21st. Newsday was the first to report the fight.

LaFlare (13-2) has been on a mission to follow the UFC in their quest to take over the New York / New Jersey area. His last two fights have been in Brooklyn for UFC 208 and Long Island for UFC on Fox 25. He defeated Roan Pereira at UFC 208 via UD, before losing to Alex Oliveira at the Nassau Coliseum. If you recall, Oliveira rocked him with a knockout punch in the second round.

Having time to recover since July, LaFlare is looking to get back on track. Since winning his first 11 pro fights, LaFlare has gone 2-2. A win would most likely not put him in the front of the line for a Welterweight Title opportunity. It could however give the Long Island MMA star his mojo back.

His opponent is also looking to find his mojo. After winning 11 of his first 12 pro fights, Garcia (15-4) has alternated wins in his last six fights. The Dominican fighting out of Montreal defeated Muslim Salikhov via rear-naked choke his last time in the octagon at UFC Fight Night 122.