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Amateur MMA, mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

NEF CELEBRATES TEN-YEAR ANNIVERSARY WITH RIVETING FIGHT NIGHT IN PORTLAND; RETURN TO L/A AREA ANNOUNCED

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Portland, Maine (February 13, 2022) – One new champion and one successful title defense in the amateur ranks and one stunning reversal of fortune at the professional level highlighted New England Fights’ 10-year anniversary card Saturday night.

“NEF 46: Decade of Dominance” was a jam-packed, 15-fight fusillade before another sold-out, energetic crowd at Aura in Portland, Maine.

Mike Murray and Zach Faulkner thrilled those fans with an early “Fight of the Year” candidate in their brouhaha for the vacant 170-pound title. Murray (4-2) applied the lessons he learned in prior losses to Zac Richard and Tim Birkenhead at NEF 40 and 41, respectively, by rallying for a split decision victory over Faulkner (4-2).

On the heels of a unanimous win on the scorecards in his most recent fight, Faulkner set the tone with a thunderous slam in the opening round. He fought out of a guillotine attempt in the second stanza and bounced back from a pair of early Murray takedowns to inflict a fair share of punishment in the third.

Murray turned momentum in his direction by landing a bundle of bombs in round four, and Faulkner’s takedown late in the fifth likely wasn’t enough to seal the deal after Murray connected with a series of body punches.

The other title bout took much less time and left far less to interpretation. Tyler Smythe (4-1) was authoritative in his first defense of the 125-pound strap, dispatching Ryan Burgess (3-3) via rear naked choke at 2:37 of the opening round.

Burgess ended a four-year layoff from the NEF hexagon to challenge Smythe, who won the title with a technical knockout of Caleb Austin.

He pushed the issue early, but Smythe turned the tables on that aggression by throwing Burgess to the mat. Burgess’ attempt at a retaliatory armbar failed, and Smythe ultimately locked in a guillotine choke that ended his night.

In a highlight among the five professional bouts, Carl Langston – winless in six prior pro bouts after an extensive amateur career – avenged his most recent defeat with a rear naked choke of Zac Richard.

The end came 81 seconds after the opening bell, when Richard (1-1), a past NEF amateur champion and decorated wrestler, went for a takedown. He initially succeeded but gave up his back and fell victim to the choke.

Both fighters accepted the 140-pound bout on only a few days’ notice after their initial opponents became unavailable. Richard lowered the boom on Langston with a knockout at 3:52 of the first round in his pro debut back in November.

Langston, who went 7-9 as an amateur and took four of his six pro conquerors to the scorecards, promised a different outcome in his pre-fight remarks, and he delivered.

Aaron Lacey of Bangor, Maine, making his first appearance in the cage since September 2018, improved to 7-2 in the pro main event with a second-round technical knockout to strikes over Bronx bomber and Bellator veteran Jerome Mickle (4-12).  In an emotional moment to end the night, Mickle announced his retirement after nearly nine years of cage competition.

Lacey took advantage of an early takedown to dominate the first round of the 155-pound showcase, then ramped up his ground-and-pound assault to another level in the second chapter before the referee waved off the proceedings at 1:42.

In the sole women’s fight on the card, crowd-pleasing Glory Watson (2-1) continued her winning ways with a rear naked choke of previously undefeated Alibeth Milliron (2-1) at 2:23 of the second round in their 115-pound tussle.

Both women landed early haymakers, with Watson’s facial expressions indicating she was anything but hurt. She further demonstrated that point by taking Milliron to the canvas and narrowly running out of time in her first attempt to turn out the lights.

Milliron made more overtures with the stand-up game in round two. A quick takedown and a series of punches gave Watson another opportunity for the choke, however, and she sealed the deal.

In a battle of two 140-pounders making their pro debut, Nate Grimard exercised top control throughout and breezed to a unanimous decision over Anthony Vasta.  Grimard’s success as a pro comes as no surprise to fans.  He is a former NEF Amateur Featherweight Champion who put together a record of 4-1 in the amateur ranks.

Mohammad Al Kinani also enjoyed a victorious dive into the pro waters, needing only 42 seconds to dismiss Chris Rooney (0-2) via strikes at 155. Al Kinani countered Rooney’s early kick with a flurry, dropping Rooney and subjecting him to another barrage that hastened the stoppage.

First Class MMA stablemates Cody Kilton and Justin Kangas passed muster with the judges in back-to-back amateur bouts.

Kilton (2-1) carved out a unanimous decision over Kaleb Kenney (0-2) at 155. Kangas (1-3) tasted victory for the first time with a split decision verdict at the expense of Jon Assam (2-4). Kangas kept control on the ground through the second and third rounds to put the long-awaited mark in the left-hand column of his ledger.

Three amateur bouts featured the rookie outing for both combatants.

Mike Jolicoeur used an arm triangle to take care of business against Will Smith at 145. In a 125-pound collision, Key Baltazar locked in a rear naked choke at 1:33 of the second round against Quinn Poirier. Baltazar’s team, Nostos MMA, was an undefeated 3-0 at “NEF 46.” Jack Burke punctuated his win over Nick Legrande with a brutal knockout blow at 1:25 of the opening frame in their 265-pound rumble.

Curtis Ouellette (2-3) spoiled Christopher Smith’s debut with a TKO via accumulation of strikes in round three.

Two other amateur scraps produced first-round finishes. Jeff Reynolds (3-2) won by rear naked choke over David McCarty (1-1) at 185, and Ben Grady (3-0) kept his record spotless when Brandon Maillet-Fevens (3-3) couldn’t continue after injuring his arm while blocking a kick.  Reynolds’ win gave his team of Karasu Tengu Academy a perfect record of 2-0 on the night.

The quick results from Portland, Maine:

PROFESSIONAL MMA

Aaron Lacey def. Jerome Mickle via TKO (round two)

Carl Lagston def. Zac Richard via rear-naked choke (round one)

Glory Watson def. Alibeth Milliron via rear-naked choke (round two)

Nathaniel Grimard def. Anthony Vasta via unanimous decision

Mohammad Al Kinani def. Chris Rooney via TKO (round one)

AMATEUR MMA

Mike Murray def. Zach Faulkner via unanimous decision

Tyler Smythe def. Ryan Burgess via guillotine (round one)

Mike Jolicoeur def. Will Smith via arm triangle (round one)

Key Baltazar def. Quinn Poirier via rear-naked choke (round two)

Jack Burke def. Nick Legrande via KO (round one)

Jeff Reynolds def. David McCarty via rear-naked choke (round one)

Ben Grady def. Brandon Maillet-Fevens via TKO (round one)

Cody Kilton def. Kaleb Kenney via unanimous decision

Justin Kangas def. Jon Assam via split decision

Curtis Ouellette def. Christopher Smith via TKO (round three)

NEF announced that it will return to the Twin Cities for its next installment. “NEF 47: Good Friends, Better Enemies” will pit Lewiston-Auburn mainstays Jesse Erickson and Matthew Denning in the main event. The card is scheduled for Saturday, April 30 at Norway Savings Bank Arena in Auburn, Maine. For more details or to get your seats now, go to newenglandfights.com/tickets.

About New England Fights

New England Fights (“NEF”) is a fight events promotions company. NEF’s mission is to create the highest quality events for fighters and fans alike. NEF’s executive team has extensive experience in combat sports management, events production, media relations, marketing, legal and advertising.

Amateur MMA, mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

LANGSTON STEPS IN TO REMATCH RICHARD AT NEF 46 THIS SATURDAY

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LANGSTON STEPS IN TO REMATCH RICHARD AT NEF 46 THIS SATURDAY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Portland, Maine (February 8, 2022) – New England Fights (NEF) returns with its next mixed-martial-arts (MMA) event, “NEF 46: Decade of Dominance,” on Saturday, February 12, 2022, at Aura in Portland, Maine. The event will commemorate NEF’s ten-year anniversary. The leading regional promotion launched on February 11, 2012. Earlier today, NEF announced the addition of a professional featherweight bout to the fight card. Carl Langston (0-6) will take on Zac “Rocky” Richard (1-0) at a fight weight of 145 pounds.

Langston stepped in on short notice to replace Richard’s previous opponent Urias Osorio (0-0) who pulled out of the fight earlier in the week.  Likewise, Langston was recently left without an opponent on the “NEF 46” card when his originally-scheduled opponent Shaun Ray (2-1) revealed to promoters that he could no longer pass medicals to obtain a fight license.

The bout will now be a rematch of the first meeting between Langston and Richard that took place last November at “NEF45.”  That fight, which was Richard’s professional debut, saw Richard defeat Langston by technical knockout in the first round.  Langston says the outcome will be different this Saturday.

“When I got asked to take this rematch on short notice it was a no brainer for me,” said Langston.  “Thank you to NEF for the opportunity and Zac’s team. This fight is going to have a very different outcome.”

“I’m very disappointed in the original fight being dropped,” noted Richard. “However, I worked too hard to sit on the sidelines and watch. I’m thankful to still have the opportunity to fight.”

“NEF 46: Decade of Dominance” takes place this Saturday, February 12, 2022, at Aura in Portland, Maine.  The event will commemorate NEF’s ten-year anniversary. Doors open at 6 pm with first fight at 7 pm.  Tickets are on sale now at www.Ticketmaster.com.  The event will also stream live in its entirety at www.CombatSportsNow.com at a price of $29.99.

amateur mixed martial arts, Amateur MMA, mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

GRIMARD AND VASTA SET TO GO PRO AT NEF 46

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Portland, Maine (November 30, 2021) – New England Fights (NEF) returns with its next mixed-martial-arts (MMA) event, “NEF 46: Decade of Dominance,” on Saturday, February 12, 2022, at Aura in Portland, Maine. The event will commemorate NEF’s ten-year anniversary. The leading regional promotion launched on February 11, 2012. Earlier today, NEF announced the addition of a professional featherweight bout to the fight card. Former NEF Amateur Featherweight Champion Nathaniel Grimard (0-0) is scheduled to take on Anthony Vasta (0-0) at a fight weight of 145-pounds.

Nathaniel Grimard made his NEF MMA debut in September 2019 at “NEF 40: School of Hard Knocks.” That night, Grimard submitted Justin Kangas (0-3) via armbar in the first round. During the pandemic lockdown, Grimard competed twice in Florida and improved his record to 3-0. His unbeaten record positioned Grimard to challenge for the then vacant NEF Featherweight Championship. In August, Grimard stopped Brandon Maillet-Fevens (3-2) in the second round at “NEF 44: Back in Black” to become the 145-pound titleholder. Grimard got right back in the cage at “NEF 45: Uprising” to defend his strap against Billy Wilson (7-1) from the famed Jackson Wink MMA camp in New Mexico. Grimard lost a laborious five-round decision that made Wilson the new champion. Now, Grimard hits the reset switch as he plans to turn professional against NEF newcomer, Anthony Vasta. Grimard represents Nostos MMA of Somersworth, New Hampshire where he trains under UFC and Bellator veteran, and former NEF Professional Lightweight Champion, Devin Powell (10-5).

“I can’t imagine a better way to start my pro career than on NEF’s 10th anniversary card,” Grimard stated. “I have big goals for myself and I’m ready to take on anybody in my way. I have nothing but respect for Vasta and his martial arts skills, but I have never been more focused.” 

Anthony Vasta will also be making his professional debut at NEF 46. Vasta and Grimard made their respective MMA amateur debuts within a couple of months of each other. Vasta and Grimard share another common tie, as both competed on the same card in Florida during the pandemic. Vasta has a 1-1 amateur record and trains at Defensive Edge Martial Arts Academy in Wakefield, Massachusetts.

“Being able to make my professional debut against another rising New England fighter that I respect is exciting,” Vasta stated. “It’s time to take the next step in my career, put my skills to the test, and seize the opportunity. My style is really unorthodox and hard to prepare for. I plan to go out there and put on a dominant performance against another tough prospect of this division.”

“NEF 46: Decade of Dominance” takes place on Saturday, February 12, 2022, at Aura in Portland, Maine.  The event will commemorate NEF’s ten-year anniversary. Doors open at 6 pm with first fight at 7 pm.  Tickets are on sale now at www.Ticketmaster.com. 

Amateur MMA, mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

MURRAY VS FAULKNER SET TO CLASH FOR WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Portland, Maine (November 23, 2021) – New England Fights (NEF) returns with its next mixed-martial-arts (MMA) event, “NEF 46: Decade of Dominance,” on Saturday, February 12, 2022, at Aura in Portland, Maine. The event will commemorate NEF’s ten-year anniversary. The leading regional promotion launched on February 11, 2012. Earlier today, NEF announced the addition of an amateur championship bout to the fight card. Former NEF Lightweight Contender “Magic” Mike Murray (3-2) is scheduled to move up in weight to face Zach Faulkner (4-1) for the currently vacant NEF Welterweight Championship at a fight weight of 170 pounds. The Championship was recently vacated when former title holder Mike Bezanson (5-0) publicly stated that he will be turning professional in his next bout.

Mike Murray has dazzled fans since he made his NEF debut in June 2019. After rattling off impressive back-to-back first-round rear-naked-choke submission victories in his first two fights, Murray faced off against Zac Richard (1-0) for the then vacant NEF Lightweight Championship. After a lively five-round fight, Murray lost a decision to Richard. Murray rebounded with a win in Florida. Murray recently retired from a successful service career in the US Marine Corps.

“I’m extremely grateful and excited to be back after two years outside of the cage, and to be given the opportunity to fight for the 170-pound title against an absolutely game opponent,” Murray stated. “I personally feel like we are each other’s best match up after seeing his striking and jiu jitsu in his last fight. I’ve been two years out of the cage, but not two years out of the fight. This past summer alone, I went undefeated in Muay Thai, and had 15 jiu jitsu matches, and placed increasingly higher in each tournament. My prediction for this fight is that it’ll be the most entertaining amateur fight on this card – if not this year. I’ve been putting in the work to be the most lethal version of myself, and I believe this is the best I’ve ever been coming into a fight. There’s no animosity going into this one, this is purely two dogs getting locked in a cage. I’m so thrilled to be a part of this incredibly special 10-year anniversary card. This will for sure be a night to remember.”

Zach Faulkner made his triumphant NEF debut in 2017 at “NEF 30: Rumble in Bangor” and has remained perfect inside the NEF hexagon ever since. He most recently won a unanimous decision victory over Curtis Ouellette (1-3) last August at “NEF 44” in New Hampshire. He trains with Jon Deupree (1-0) at Recon Fitness in Westbrook, Maine.

“I’m super excited to not only have the opportunity to fight for the NEF welterweight title, but also to be able to fight on such a big card against a tough, game opponent,” Faulkner stated. “Winning would mean a lot to me because it would show that my fight journey is moving in the right direction and show that I’m ready to start to think about moving up to the next level.”

“NEF 46: Decade of Dominance” takes place on Saturday, February 12, 2022, at Aura in Portland, Maine.  The event will commemorate NEF’s ten-year anniversary. Doors open at 6 pm with first fight at 7 pm.  Tickets are on sale now at www.Ticketmaster.com. 

Amateur MMA, mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

WOMEN’S FIGHT WILL MARK THE RETURN OF GLORY WATSON TO THE NEF CAGE

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Milford, New Hampshire (July 16, 2021) – New England Fights (NEF) returns with its next event, “NEF 44: Back in Black,” on August 21, 2021, at the Hampshire Dome in Milford, New Hampshire.  The show will feature both mixed-martial-arts (MMA) and kickboxing fights.  Earlier today, NEF announced the addition of a professional women’s strawweight bout to the fight card.  Glory Watson (0-1) is scheduled to meet Rebecca Brygmann (0-1) at a fight weight of 115 pounds.

Glory Watson last appeared in the NEF cage in November 2019, suffering her first and only amateur loss in a strawweight title fight to a very tough Cara Greenwell (10-5).  Prior to that time, Watson had rattled off six wins in a row to start her amateur career, capturing the NEF Women’s Amateur Bantamweight Championship in the process.  She made her professional debut during the pandemic on a fight card in Florida, losing via first round submission to Ariana Melendez (1-1).  Watson looks to get her first win as a professional on August 21.  She currently represents Young’s MMA in Bangor, Maine.

“I am looking forward to returning to the cage for an amazing promotion and to do so against an experienced opponent,” said Watson. “This will be my second professional fight, and I am beyond excited for the cage doors to lock behind me! Wishing my opponent a healthy fight camp and best of skill on August 21st!”

Like her opponent, Rebecca Bryggman will also be looking for the first win of her professional career at NEF 44.  Bryggman made her pro debut for national promotion Bellator in a losing effort to Elise Reed (4-0) in October 2019.  She was 2-1 as an amateur, undefeated in MMA with her sole loss coming in a kickboxing bout.  Bryggman fights out of New York.

“It’s all about divine timing and I’ve been hungry, patiently waiting to get back in the cage,” noted Bryggman.  “Now is the time.  A starved animal is a dangerous animal, and I’m that animal.”

Tickets for “NEF 44: Back in Black” are on sale now at www.NewEnglandFights.com/Tickets/.  The MMA and kickboxing event will take place at the Hampshire Dome in Milford, New Hampshire on Saturday, August 21, 2021, with a bell-time of 7 pm. 

About New England Fights

New England Fights (“NEF”) is a fight events promotions company. NEF’s mission is to create the highest quality events for fighters and fans alike. NEF’s executive team has extensive experience in combat sports management, events production, media relations, marketing, legal and advertising.

mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

CALEB HALL SET TO RETURN TO ACTION AT NEF 44 IN MILFORD, NH

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Milford, New Hampshire (June 30, 2021) – New England Fights (NEF) returns with its next event, “NEF 44: Back in Black,” on August 21, 2021, at the Hampshire Dome in Milford, New Hampshire.  The show will feature both mixed-martial-arts (MMA) and kickboxing fights.  Earlier today, NEF announced the addition of a professional lightweight bout to the fight card. Caleb Hall (3-0) is scheduled to face Shaun Ray (2-0) at a fight weight of 155 pounds.

Caleb Hall is riding a six-fight win streak in the NEF cage dating back to his amateur days.  He has not lost a fight with the promotion since 2015.  Hall is a former NEF Amateur Featherweight Champion.  He turned pro in 2018 with a first round submission victory over tough veteran John Ortolani (11-14).  In fact, all three of Hall’s wins as a professional have come via first round submission.

Hall is a product of Dirigo High School in Dixfield, Maine where he captured two state titles on the wrestling team.  In recent years, Hall has taken up residence in Las Vegas, Nevada where he trains at Syndicate MMA.

“I’m excited to make my return to the cage under NEF once again,” said Hall.  “I’m looking forward to getting out and testing my skill against my opponent.”

Hall’s opponent, Shaun Ray, is also undefeated as a professional fighter with two wins to his credit.  He is a graduate of Easton High School in Easton, Maryland.  Ray currently resides in Waterville, Maine.

“This has been a long time dream to be able to fight in the cage,” said Ray.  “I’ve been training for this for years off and on. I get to test my skills against a worthy opponent. Thank you for making this possible and much respect to all involved!”  

Tickets for “NEF 44: Back in Black” are on sale now at www.NewEnglandFights.com/Tickets/.  The MMA and kickboxing event will take place at the Hampshire Dome in Milford, New Hampshire on Saturday, August 21, 2021, with a bell-time of 7 pm. 

About New England Fights

New England Fights (“NEF”) is a fight events promotions company. NEF’s mission is to create the highest quality events for fighters and fans alike. NEF’s executive team has extensive experience in combat sports management, events production, media relations, marketing, legal and advertising.

mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

CARLTON CHARLES RETURNING TO THE MMA CAGE AT NEF 44 IN MILFORD, NH

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Milford, New Hampshire (June 25, 2021) – New England Fights (NEF) returns with its next event, “NEF 44: Back in Black,” on August 21, 2021, at the Hampshire Dome in Milford, New Hampshire.  The show will feature both mixed-martial-arts (MMA) and kickboxing fights.  Earlier today, NEF announced the addition of an amateur middleweight fight to the card.  Carlton Charles (3-2) will meet Josh Banks (0-0) at a fight weight of 185 pounds.

Carlton Charles, now representing Recon Fitness based in Westbrook, Maine, was a standout athlete on the football field.  He played for Windham High School in Windham, Maine and later coached the team to a state championship as an assistant in 2009.  Charles went on to play for the Division 1 University of Maine Black Bears.

He made his MMA debut in the summer of 2017 at “NEF 30” with a blistering knockout of Josh Jones (2-4) just 23 seconds into the first round.  Charles would follow up that performance with a 12 second knockout of Delmarkis Edwards in early 2018 at “NEF 32.”

After making an unsuccessful challenge for the NEF Amateur Welterweight Title against Duncan Smith (5-3) at “NEF 34,” Charles picked up a victory in his last fight on a card in the Granite State in the spring of 2019.  The fight against Banks will mark Charles’ return to cage action after a 28-month absence.

“Man, I’m just excited to get back in there and with NEF making its first appearance in NH, there’s no better time,” said Charles. “It’s been awhile since anyone has been able to get the opportunity to compete, so I feel blessed with this chance. For me, it’s been over two years now due to an injury in 2019 and then the pandemic shutting other opportunities down. I don’t know much about my opponent, other than he comes from a great gym that will have him ready to compete. I’m thankful to my coaches and his team for this opportunity. As usual, I am coming to put on a show and I know my opponent will be game. I wish him a healthy camp so we can both be at full strength for ourselves, families, and of course the fans!”

Josh Banks will be making his debut at “NEF 44.”  Banks represents the Regiment Training Center based in Fall River, Massachusetts where he trains alongside UFC veteran and former NEF Professional Cruiserweight Champion Yorgan De Castro (6-3).

Tickets for “NEF 44: Back in Black” are on sale now at www.NewEnglandFights.com/Tickets/.  The MMA and kickboxing event will take place at the Hampshire Dome in Milford, New Hampshire on Saturday, August 21, 2021, with a bell-time of 7 pm. 

About New England Fights

New England Fights (“NEF”) is a fight events promotions company. NEF’s mission is to create the highest quality events for fighters and fans alike. NEF’s executive team has extensive experience in combat sports management, events production, media relations, marketing, legal and advertising.

boxing, mixed martial arts, New England Fights

NEF TO DEBUT IN NEW HAMPSHIRE; WELTERWEIGHT TITLE FIGHT ANNOUNCED

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Milford, New Hampshire (June 7, 2021) – New England Fights (NEF) announced today that the fight promotion will return with its next event, “NEF 44: Back in Black,” on August 21, 2021.  The show will originate from the Hampshire Dome in Milford, New Hampshire and will feature a mix of both mixed-martial-arts (MMA) and kickboxing fights. It will be NEF’s long-awaited debut in the Granite State, and it will also be the promotion’s first event since the COVID-19 pandemic hit in the spring of 2020.

NEF’s previously-scheduled event, “NEF 43: Rampage,” which was postponed indefinitely due to the pandemic, is still awaiting a rescheduled date at the Collins Center for the Arts at UMaine Orono. NEF executives hope that date will be sometime later in the fall, but at press time they were still waiting on a decision from the Combat Sports Authority of Maine on re-opening the regulation of MMA and boxing events in the state without restrictions.

“Fighters and fans have waited long enough,” declared NEF promoter and co-owner Nick DiSalvo.  “With Maine not fully open for combat sports events yet, the Hampshire Dome and the New Hampshire Boxing Commission presented the perfect opportunity to get fighters back in the cage and active again before summer was over.”

NEF further announced today the first fight confirmed for the “NEF 44” card in Milford would be an amateur welterweight title contest.  Duncan “The Highlander” Smith (5-3), who has held the promotion’s 170-pound championship since June 2018, is scheduled to defend against number-one-contender Mike “All Class” Bezanson (5-0).

“Coming out of COVID we’re going to find out who really wants it and is serious about accelerating in the sport,” said NEF co-owner and matchmaker Matt Peterson. “Who was working during quarantine, grinding away in their basements and garages and backyards and getting better while the world was shut down? Duncan and Bezanson both believe they are those guys and we’re going to find out on August 21st. These are two of the best in the Northeast welterweight division and I can’t wait to see which one proves that they are ready to punch through into the professional division before the end of 2021.”

Reigning champion Duncan Smith is a perfect 3-0 in the NEF cage.  His last defense of the title was at “NEF 38” in April 2019 when he defeated John Tefft (2-1) via unanimous decision.  Smith represents Evolution Athletix based in Saco, Maine.

“I’ve never felt more complete and confident in all aspects of living,” said Smith. “I am extremely excited to showcase my skills against a game opponent before I enter the pro ranks. A lot can change in two years.”

Undefeated Mike Bezanson is regarded by many as one of the most exciting competitors on the entire New England scene.  He is known for his flashy striking style and explosive finishes.  Bezanson represents Team Kaze of Lancaster, New Hampshire.

“I’ve been sitting like a caged lion this last year because of COVID,” stated Bezanson when reached for comment. “Waiting eagerly for everything to open up just like everyone else. I’m very excited to be able to get back in there to perform for everyone!  I can assure you this will be the same game plan as all my previous fights. I’m going in there for two reasons, to knock out whoever is in front of me and walk out with a belt over my shoulder.”

“With everything opening up and restrictions being lifted, there is a lot to get excited about,” said Bezanson’s coach and Kaze Dojo owner Greg Williams.  “That being said, nothing excites me more than seeing Mike Bezanson bringing his unique brand of violence back to the NEF cage! He is a rare talent and I believe he will eventually realize himself on the highest level. Another amateur belt is just icing on the cake. We all look forward to seeing New England’s best amateur 170 prospect and how he has evolved in the past year!”

Tickets for “NEF 44: Back in Black” are on sale now at www.NewEnglandFights.com/Tickets/.  The hybrid MMA and kickboxing event will take place at the Hampshire Dome in Milford, New Hampshire on Saturday, August 21, 2021, with a bell-time of 7 pm. 

About New England Fights

New England Fights (“NEF”) is a fight events promotions company. NEF’s mission is to create the highest quality events for fighters and fans alike. NEF’s executive team has extensive experience in combat sports management, events production, media relations, marketing, legal and advertising.

mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

HEAVYWEIGHT FIGHTS AND HARDCORE MUSIC ALL IN A WEEKEND’S WORK FOR BRAD LEE

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Portland, Maine (January 22, 2020)

Friday, February 7 and Saturday, February 8 promise to be a heavyweight weekend in Portland, Maine for Brad Lee.

On the opening night, Lee will put his lungs to the test as lead vocalist for a hardcore band known as Instigate, which will hold a CD release party in conjunction with its performance at Geno’s Rock Club.

Then he’ll exchange the microphone for a pair of gloves and attempt to play a two-fisted tune on Ras Hylton in the New England Fights mixed martial arts cage.

Lee will make his MMA debut against the veteran Ras “Rasquatch” “The Jamaican Shamrock” Hylton (4-3) in a professional bout at NEF 42: “Symphony of Destruction” inside another renowned concert venue, Merrill Auditorium.

“I absolutely want to make a living out of it,” Lee said of his immediate jump to the pro ranks after a diverse combat sports upbringing. “I feel that I’m fairly marketable. I think I can make a bit of a splash in this corner of the world. I would say I have humble confidence.”

He’s more understated about the musical exploits. Lee characterizes that side of his performance artistry as the typical garage band with small dreams.

“It’s been a huge part of my life. If you’re a big kid with a skateboard, it’s probably going to lead to music and fighting eventually,” Lee said.

“But it’s definitely not about the money,” he added. “It’s literally a band of friends doing it to hang out with our other friends on the weekend. We couldn’t (care less) about stadiums. We’re not Metallica. It’s just a hobby. It’s an outlet for me to get out the (stuff) that’s in my head. It’s just a hobby.”

In the same way that new fighters are required to earn their way upward on fight posters, Lee, who said he “dabbles” with guitar, sounds most excited about the New England-based bands with whom Instigate gets to share the stage.

“Death Before Dishonor and Cruel Hand, if you know anything about that scene, those are big names,” Lee said. “It would have been a great show regardless of whether we were there or not.”

Turning pro in the NEF hexagon without any amateur background isn’t the typical journey, but Lee saw it as the wisest path after a frustrating year of trying to locate willing opponents.

Most potential foes, he said, were intimidated by his 6-foot-4 frame and what was then a walking-around weight of more than 300 pounds. The heavyweight limit is 265.

“I had five different opponents with three different promotions, including NEF, cancel on me. I had fights where the opponent took the fight with me, backed out, and then took a heavyweight fight on the same card,” Lee said. “I don’t want to mention names, but one guy in Ras’ circle (did that). I just got fed up and annoyed with guys holding back my career.”

Lee said he eventually contacted NEF co-owner and matchmaker Matt Peterson to inquire about the pro landscape within his promotion.

Hylton, who casts a similarly imposing shadow at 6-6, is coming off a sequence of two losses in his past three appearances, including a knockout loss to Chris Sarro – another fighter making his pro debut – last September.

“Matt put Ras out there. I watched the videos and talked to my coaches and went ahead with it,” Lee said. “He’s coming off two hard fights. He seems like a respectful guy. I’m sure some people in his camp think I’m a (jerk). The thing about me in the social media world is I only release what I want people to see. People can talk (crap) all they want.”

In one of his videos, which Lee entitled, “What Makes a Pro a Pro?,” he breaks down what he considers the misconception that an amateur career is a necessity for MMA success.

“Look at Jon Jones. Now, I’m not saying I’m Jon Jones, but he became a world champion without any (martial arts) belts at all,” Lee said. “So what is it? Is it that he can knock guys out? I’ve knocked out a bunch of guys in my life. Is it his cardio? My cardio is pretty good.

“You know, I just got tired of waiting around for other people. When I was getting ready to fight about a year ago, I realize I was right at the top of the weight class, but it’s like people were scared. I mean, if you don’t want to be a heavyweight then get down to 205 or whatever. I’m a lot lighter and in better shape now. People probably would have been better off fighting me last year.”

Boxing and judo are the primary skills in Lee’s tool kit, although he describes himself as a voracious cross-trainer.

“I think the MMA world sleeps on boxing quite a bit,” Lee said. “Muay Thai seems to be the thing, but the Muay Thai guys get their faces hit a lot. But I train anything and everything. I’ll do Tai chi in a park with somebody if it helps me get better, I don’t care.”

Lee, 29, is based out of Paladin Combat Sports in Clinton, Massachusetts, where he said he will stack up his schedule and intensity level against almost anyone his size in the combat sports game.

“Win or lose, I’ll be back in the gym on Monday. Compared to what I’ve seen from most UFC and Bellator heavyweights, I work out harder than most of them,” Lee said. “I was 316 pounds less than a year ago. If anyone wants to check me on my motivation or dedication, tell them to check the scale (at weigh-ins) on February 7.”

After that, fans are invited to follow Lee down the street to Geno’s and listen to him pursue his other passion the night before he makes his debut in the NEF cage.

New England Fights’ next mixed-martial-arts event, “NEF 42: Symphony of Destruction,” will take place on Saturday, February 8, 2020, at Merrill Auditorium in Portland, Maine. Tickets are on sale now at www.PortTix.com.

About New England Fights

New England Fights (“NEF”) is a fight events promotions company. NEF’s mission is to create the highest quality events for fighters and fans alike. NEF’s executive team has extensive experience in combat sports management, events production, media relations, marketing, legal and advertising.

mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

GRISPI OUT, BERMUDEZ IN TO FACE BOYINGTON FOR LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE AT NEF 42

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Portland, Maine (January 19, 2020) – New England Fights (NEF) will hold its next mixed-martial-arts (MMA) event, “NEF 42: Symphony of Destruction,” on Saturday, February 8, 2020, at Merrill Auditorium in Portland.  Earlier today, NEF announced a change to one-half of the card’s main event.  Manny “The Bermudez Triangle” Bermudez(14-2) will now face Bruce “Pretty Boy” Boyington (17-11) for the vacant NEF Professional Lightweight Championship in the night’s headline fight.

Bermudez stepped in to replace his teammate and training partner Josh Grispi (14-5) who was originally scheduled to meet Boyington.  Grispi was forced to bow out of the main event due to legal complications unforeseen at the time of the bout’s signing.  Mere hours after losing Grispi, NEF executives were notified that Bermudez would accept the fight with Boyington.

Like Grispi, Bermudez is a veteran of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) – the pinnacle of the sport.  He put together a record of 3-2 while competing in the promotion before being released this past October.  All three of Bermudez’s wins in the UFC came by way of submission.  The fight with Boyington will be Bermudez’s first since his release.

“I’m looking forward to coming up to Bruce’s home turf and showing where it is I belong on the regional circuit,” stated Bermudez.  “I have experience at various levels in the sport and Bruce does too, so it’ll be interesting to see how the matchup unfolds on fight night.”

Bruce Boyington has never been one to back down from a challenge.  The Taekwondo black belt and US Marine Corp veteran has made a career of fighting the “best of the best” whether it be in the NEF cage, at Madison Square Garden fighting for the World Series of Fighting (WSOF) on national television, or halfway across the world competing on a global event in Russia.  Boyington, a member of Titan Athletics based in Brewer, Maine, looks to capture the lightweight strap for the second time on February 8.

“There is no easy fight and this makes for the same scenario – a main event worthy of any card,” said Boyington.  “Two high caliber fighters – that’s the kind of fight I like to be in.”

Adding to the high-caliber aspect of the fight, two streaks held by Boyington and Bermudez respectively make the fight even that much more intriguing.  Boyington has never lost a title fight.  He is a perfect 7-0 when a championship strap is on the line.  In the same breadth, Bermudez has never lost a regional fight as a professional.  He was a perfect 11-0 on the regional scene prior to signing with the UFC.  On February 8, someone’s “0” will have to go.

“I first met Manny Bermudez 11-years ago one random weekend while visiting his home gym, South Short Sportfighting,” noted NEF co-owner and matchmaker Matt Peterson.  “He was a young, gangling teenager at the time that was giving fits on the floor to men two and three times his age. Manny made the gym his second home and the rest, as they say, is history—Manny went on to have a great run in the UFC. When Josh Grispi was forced to pull out of his fight with Bruce, Bruce gave me one directive for a replacement opponent—‘make sure they are good,’ he said. Bruce always wants to face the best and that’s what we were able to bring him in Bermudez. This is a main event fit for a symphony.”

New England Fights’ next mixed-martial-arts event, “NEF 42: Symphony of Destruction,” will take place on Saturday, February 8, 2020, at Merrill Auditorium in Portland, Maine. Tickets are on sale now at www.PortTix.com.

About New England Fights

New England Fights (“NEF”) is a fight events promotions company. NEF’s mission is to create the highest quality events for fighters and fans alike. NEF’s executive team has extensive experience in combat sports management, events production, media relations, marketing, legal and advertising.