Former world champion Hafiz Bakshaliyev and Immortal Champions returned to London for their fourth event Sunday.
Immortal Champions IV: A New Era took place before a large and boisterous crowd at London’s Porchester Hall.
Sponsored by Guava Pay and the Fund for Support to Azerbaijan Diaspora, the promotion delivered its best event to date.
Knockouts and controversy reigned on the main card!
Allen Wears Down Alarcon, Captures Title
In the main event, Kurtis Allen broke down Kenneth Alarcon to claim the European Title.
Allen, fighting out of the Red Dragonz Gym in Brixton, prevailed by fourth-round TKO.
A tiring Alarcon went down from a knee to head in round four. He bravely beat the count but was soon counted again for taking too long to get up from a push.
Allen continued his attack, and with an exhausted Alarcon slumped over the ropes, the fight was halted by the referee.
“Kurtis Allen’s fourth-round KO was impressive. Kurtis is open to defending his title. We’re considering potential opponents for future events,” said promoter Bakhshaliyev.
“Rest assured, we’ll aim for a compelling match up.”
Yusuf Ali Taleb Captures British MMA Title
Yusuf Ali Taleb made a sensational MMA debut, defeating courageous Joe Bello for the Immortal Champions British MMA Title.
Taleb scored effectively with low kicks and body kicks as Bello pressed the action. Bello wasn’t able to defend the kicks, and was on the defensive late in the round.
Taleb’s striking skills continued to dictate the bout in round two. A high kick and follow up strikes dropped Bello to his knees. He tried to ground Taleb down with an ankle grab but Taleb got back to his feet.
Taleb dropped a dazed Bello again and the referee wisely ended the fight. Taleb’s large crowd of supporters chanted “ALI ALI” after the fight was stopped.
“This is the start of a new chapter,” said Taleb, a kickboxing champion, after the fight.
Bakhshaliyev was impressed with Taleb’s performance.
“Yusuf Ali Taleb’s second-round KO of Joe Bello was undoubtedly a highlight of the night,” he said.
“The historic significance of being the first MMA fight in Immortal Champions added to its excitement.”
“We were extremely pleased with the fight. You can certainly expect more MMA matches at future Immortal Champions events. We are committed to diversifying our fight card, and providing our fans with a wide range of thrilling martial arts bouts.”
Controversial Draw Kicks Off Immortal Champions IV Main Card
The main card opened with a Muay Thai match featuring Bahram Belizadeh of Azerbaijan, fighting out of Wales. Belizadeh faced Marc Phillipe, fighting out of London’s Kru Thai Gym.
Belizadeh fought with a lot of aggression, while Phillipe was the more skilled fighter. The Azerbaijani fighter received warnings for using his head and throwing a spinning back elbow.
Phillipe did some good knee work in the clinch and scored with a couple of nice trips. There were no knockdowns or eight counts.
It seemed Phillipe had earned a victory. The judges scored the bout a draw.
A loud chant of “ONE MORE ROUND” followed from the crowd. Phillipe was willing but an exhausted Belizadeh declined.
“Judges scored it a draw. Marc’s performance appeared stronger to some,” said Bakhshaliyev.
“We’ve decided to schedule a rematch in one of our upcoming Immortal Champions events.”
Ceckauskas Stuns Velencicuc in 1st Round!
Lithuania’s Aidas Ceckauskas scored a stunning first-round knockout against Alex Velenciuc in a light heavyweight K-1 Rules bout.
Velencicuc scored well with low kicks and sweeps early, before finding a home for his right uppercut and right hand.
He was soon on the canvas. A Ceckauskas overhand right caught him during an exchange.
Velencicuc beat the count but was in no condition to continue. Official time was 2 minutes 6 seconds of round one.
“The fight was indeed an exciting one,” Bakhshaliyev said.
“Alex showcased impressive technical skills while Ceckauskas displayed his power with strong punches.”
“The match took an expected turn when Ceckauskas landed a decisive right hand, securing a thrilling knockout victory.”
“It’s a testament to the unpredictable nature of combat sports and the importance of both skill and power in the ring. The Immortal Champions brand is proud to host such competitive and captivating matches for our fans.”
Great Reception for Immortal Champions IV
Sunday’s event was well received by those who attended. Bakshaliyev and the Immortal Champions staff were also happy with the show.
“The overall event was a tremendous success, and we couldn’t be happier with the outcome,” he said.
“We’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the fighters, fans, attendees, and our dedicated staff who made this event possible.”
Immortal Champions V Planned for February 2024
“As for our future plans, we’re excited to announce we are planning our next event in February 2024,” said Bakhshaliyev.
“The positive feedback we’ve received regarding the show, venue, atmosphere, service and more has been truly inspiring.”
“We are committed to delivering even more exceptional martial arts entertainment in the future, and we can’t wait to see what’s in store for Immortal Champions. Thank you for all your support.”
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