April 22 declared "Urijah Faber Day"

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Urijah Faber has something to smile about: April 22 has officially been declared "Urijah Faber Day."

Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson today announced that the former featherweight champion would have a day named in his honor to commend him from being an exemplary figure to the city.

"He's one of the best featherweight fighters in the world," said Johnson, "certainly in the history of the sport. We are proud to claim him as a local resident."

Fan-favorite Faber first won the WEC featherweight belt in March 2006 by beating Cole Escovedo via corner's stoppage after the second round. He then defended it five times before eventually losing it to Mike Brown in June 2009.

Everywhere Faber goes, he gets a warm reception, but when he fights in his hometown - which he has done three times already with the WEC - the crowd is louder than ever. His upcoming fight will take place in Sacramento, and it is certain that he will have the home-crowd advantage.

On April 24, Faber will take on current featherweight champion Jose Aldo in what is already being called the best fight in featherweight history.

"We're going to fight out hearts out," said Faber. "We're going for the kill. As far as excitement goes, I think you're looking at the most exciting fighters on the planet."

* Photo courtesy of MMAJunkie