Mixed martial arts returns to the Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma on May 7, but this time with a twist.
The venue will host the inaugural SFL America Team Challenge. The unique concept merges all the excitement of professional MMA with the traditional team scoring system of collegiate wrestling to create a dynamic event which pits two teams against each other.
SFL America Team Challenge Begins May 7
The initial 8-bout card will feature two preliminary and six Seattle vs. Portland bouts.
“The Northwest has long been one of the best areas in the world for MMA fighters. Two current UFC champions, Miesha Tate and Demetrious Johnson, are both natives of Parkland, Washington. It’s just remarkable the amount of talent we have up here,” said SFL COO Brian Halquist. “What better way to showcase the abundance of outstanding Northwest fighters we have than with an event like this? The talent pool of MMA fighters nationally is truly incredible. Numerous fighters have already advanced their careers from CageSport / SFL shows including: Miesha Tate, Julian Erosa, Phoenix Jones, Anthony Hamilton, and many many more. The ultimate goal is to have participating MMA teams established in several major cities and create a true Super Fight League. This is the beginning of something big.”
Tickets are available through the EQC box office and all Ticket Master outlets. Doors open at 6 p.m. with preliminary bouts starting at 7 p.m.
Highlighting the card will be a five-round bout between the SFL America Lightweight champion Justin “Ruckus” Harrington (8-2-0) and undefeated challenger Bryan Nuro.
Harrington, a member of Team Seattle, captured the SFL Lightweight crown with a second-round TKO of Harrison Bevens on July 11, 2015. He made his first defense at SFL 44 with a thrilling first-round submission of challenger Bobby McIntyre on Sept. 26, 2015.
Team Portland fighter Nuro brings a perfect 4-0 record into the contest. He was also undefeated as an amateur, posting an impressive mark of 7-0.
Team Seattle will be coached by UFC veteran and owner of Combat Sports & Fitness Jeff “Hellbound” Hougland, while Team Portland will be under the guidance of Nick “Savage” Gilardi.
Fighters will earn 9 points for a KO, 7 points for a submission victory, 5 points for a TKO, 3 points for a decision and 2 points for a draw with the winning team collecting the most combined points.
SFL America: Team Challenge – Seattle vs. Portland is brought to you by Brian Halquist Productions and Super Fight League. For more information, please visit www.halquistproductions.com and the CageSport MMA Facebook page.
