Aoki and Sakurai confirmed for Dream 2009 Welterweight Grand Prix

Fighting and Entertainment Group announced today that Shinya "Tobikan Judan" Aoki has agreed to move back up to welterweight to compete in Dream's 168-pound tournament, which begins on April 5 at the NGK Insulators Hall in Nagoya, Japan. Hayato "Mach" Sakurai has also been confirmed, and will join Aoki as the second marquee name to enter the tournament. Sherdog reports:

A source close to the situation has told Sherdog.com that FEG is hoping to pit Aoki against fellow star Sakurai in April's quarterfinals. Sakurai and Aoki met in August 2005, where a then-unknown Aoki took Sakurai to a hotly competitive decision.

There was a little speculation as to whether or not Aoki would move up to 168 lbs so it's nice to see he agreed. It's always a treat to watch him fight, since he does things you've never seen any other fighter even attempt. Plus the move up to welterweight should be good for him. I'm not saying he's skinny, but I met him in person once and when he turned to the side he completely disappeared. True story.