Lewiston, Maine (March 25, 2013) — New England Fights! (NEF) is proud to announce the signing of Ray Wood (2-0) to its first multi-fight promotional contract. While the specifics of the contract remain undisclosed, sources close to the organization have revealed that the deal is structured long-term over the course of a minimum three fights to build Wood’s career and get him to the next level in the sport.
“It’s no coincidence that Ray is our first signing to a full promotional contract,” said NEF co-owner and promoter Nick DiSalvo. “Matt (Peterson) and I are certain that not only will he get to the next level with one of the two major promotions, but that he will actually thrive at that level.”
“I feel it’s a great opportunity to sign a three-fight deal with the fastest growing promotion in New England,” stated Wood when reached for comment. “NEF has put on some great shows in 2012, however, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. In 2013, NEF will prove to be the number-one mixed-martial arts organization in New England.”
Nicknamed “All Business” for his workman-like approach to combat, Wood trains with Young’s MMA in Bangor. He finished his amateur career with five wins and one loss (to a larger opponent), earning him the number-one ranking in the Northeast’s amateur featherweight division. Since turning pro last fall, Wood has gone undefeated in his first two skirmishes, defeating John Raio and Walter Smith Cotito. On May 18, he looks to continue that streak when he steps into the cage at the Androscoggin Bank Colisee in Lewiston to face Anthony Loycano (1-3).
“Don’t let Loycano’s record fool you,” warned NEF co-owner and matchmaker Matt Peterson. “He had a stellar amateur career, and since going pro he’s faced a very high level of competition. This fight is going to be a real test for Ray. Young’s has made it clear that they only want the toughest opponents for him, and they’ll get that in Loycano.”
“The fight with Anthony Loycano is a fight that makes sense right now,” exclaimed Wood. “I’m certainly not saying I’m going to walk through this guy, but I feel the odds are in our favor. I have seen his fights and he appears to be a one-dimensional fighter. I have more tools win this fight!”
At the time of this writing, the fight card for May 18 in Lewiston consisted of ten professional and more than thirty amateur fights. The main event is scheduled to feature Maine MMA legend Marcus “The Irish Hand Grenade” Davis (21-9) battling Darrius Heyliger (4-1). The co-main event will see UFC veteran Henry Martinez (9-5) squaring off with Jamie Harrison (4-1) for the Maine State Lightweight Title. Also on the main card, Travis “The Showstopper” Bartlett (8-3) meets Randy “The Wolf” Smith (14-13-1) for the Maine State Heavyweight Title. Tickets start at just $25 and are on sale now at www.TheColisee.com or by calling The Colisee box office at 207.783.2009 x 525. For more information on the event, visit www.NewEnglandFights.com. You can watch NEF videos at www.youtube.com/NEFMMA, follow them on Twitter @nefights and join the official Facebook group “New England Fights.”
About New England Fights
New England Fights! (“NEF!”) is a Mixed Martial Arts promotions company. NEF’s mission is to create the highest quality events for Maine’s fighters and fans alike. NEF!’s executive team has extensive experience in combat sports management, events production, media relations, marketing, legal and advertising.