Updated

In 2009, Thiago "Pitbull" Alves fought for the welterweight world championship and took the best ever at 170 pounds the distance. After that decision loss to Georges St-Pierre, Alves has gone 4-4 at welterweight.

Now, UFC Tonight reports, Alves has decided to move down to 155 pounds. According to their Wednesday report, Alves is in the process of dropping weight and hopes to make his lightweight debut in December.

Alves last fought in May, and lost by TKO to Carlos Condit. Before that, the American Top Team member had won two straight bouts.

The 31-year-old hopes to rejuvenate his career by dropping down a class. At 5-foot-10, he'll be a fairly tall lightweight and no doubt feels that his striking power can make a difference against smaller men.

We'll keep you posted on developments with this story as they happen.