Jarrod Card used a relentless attack earning him the right to take home the XFC featherweight belt against the very game Bruce Connors. The main event for “XFC 8: Regional Conflict” did not disappoint, with the fight going the entire five rounds in a bloody war of attrition between the two warriors.
The show between the featherweights truly impressed XFC president John Prisco, who repeatedly called both of his fighters “true warriors” throughout the bout. With the victory, the new XFC Featherweight Champion, Jarrod Card moves to 10-2-1, while Connors (6-1) received his first loss as a pro, after winning six straight to start his MMA career.
On hand to present the featherweight belt to Card was former WWE superstar Bobby Lashley, who had an announcement of his own to make at the event. Lashley confirmed his busy MMA schedule coming up, and announced that he will be fighting for the XFC in September.
Lashley (2-0) could be a part of the XFC’s return to Florida on September 5th in Tampa. The XFC has had record breaking crowds in their home state averaging over 10,000 fans for six consecutive shows.
The organization often showcases young, up and coming talent, and Saturday’s event delivered on many fronts. One of the most impressive showings came from Chris Barnett (1-0), making his pro debut against the very seasoned and experienced Johnathan Ivey.
Ivey (27-39) is known for his antics during fights as well as for his extensive and notable list of well known opponents including, Ricco Rodriguez, Dan Severn, Jeremy Horn, and Ben Rothwell.
It would be Barnett in his pro debut that would be providing the fireworks, showcasing amazing athleticism for such a big man, utilizing his karate background to the fullest with flying knees, and spinning kicks.
The 22 year old Barnett dominated the three round fight earning the unanimous decision victory over Ivey. When Barnett wasn’t wooing the crowd with his jumping kicks and knees, he used his wrestling base to control position, dropping heavy handed strikes from the top, punishing Ivey with elbows to the ribs, and constantly looking for submissions from his dominant position.
Quick Results for XFC 8: Regional Conflict
Undercard
Devan Plaisance def Paul McEntee by TKO (strikes) Rd 1
Matt Traylor def Richard Boyd by TKO (strikes) Rd 1
Corey Krebs def Dean Hamilton by KO Rd 1
Christopher Barnett def Johnathan Ivey by UD (30-27, 30-26, 30-27)
Main Card
Jason Wood def Derek Schiffer by KO (strikes) Rd 2
Gerardo Julio Gallegos def CT Turner by sub (guillotine) Rd 2
Ovince St. Preux def Ombey Mobley by sub (toe hold) Rd 1
Co-Main Event
Rafaello Oliveira def John Mahlow by UD (30-26, 30-27, 30-27)
XFC Featherweight Championship
Jarrod Card def Bruce Connors by UD (50-45, 50-45, 49-46)
By: Denny Hodge