Every champion in MMA history started out somewhere.
For those who make it to the highest stage, the journey begins long before they strap on UFC or Bellator gloves. Modern-era fighters progress through the regional ranks with hopes of accomplishing the highest accolades. Many will try, few will succeed.
This month, five fighters on the verge of achieving major promotion notoriety – one for the second time – return to the cage for what could be their stepping stone fight. There are dozens of fighters close to making the jump in the coming weeks, but these five are particularly exemplary.
This month:
- A second-generation mixed martial artist could obtain LFA champ champ status – and a subsequent major promotional phone call shortly thereafter.
- A Pitbull Brothers protege continues to build on his experience as he travels across the ocean to battle for a South African title.
- An undefeated Canadian fighter hopes to make up for lost time, and a lost Dana White’s Contender Series opportunity, with her first LFA title win.
- One of the highest-touted flyweight prospects in the world hopes to continue his domination as he tears through the CFFC scene.
- An under-the-radar Titan FC champion thinks a sixth-straight victory could propel him into the ranks of the UFC.