Video: AXS TV Fights 2013 Hightlights (Must SEE)

Video: AXS TV Fights 2013 Hightlights
By Chris Houten - @mrhouts

2013 was one of the best years in the history of MMA. We have seen stars rise and champions fall, amazing new talent emerge, and a host of international talent literally rise up like a phoenix from the ashes... and that's just whats gone on in the UFC this year.

Fans who haven't had the privilege of watching AXS TV Fights 2013 highlights video can be forgiven for thinking its been all UFC this year, but wait....

From the US TV network which is home to Legacy FC, XFC, MFC, RFA, CFA, BAMMA and others, sit back and enjoy 3 minutes of brutal slams, kicks, punches and submissions from the likes of Paul Daley, Sergio Pettis, Holly Holm, Brandon Thatch and many more.......GOOD NIGHT IRENE!

Former UFC Featherweight Junior Assuncao Re-signs with XFC

Junior Assuncao Re-signs with XFC

In 2010, Assuncao, a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Black Rope in Capoeira, defeated John Mahlow to capture the XFC Lightweight Championship.  Before being able to defend his new title, Assuncao was offered the opportunity to return to the UFC, so with the blessing of XFC President John Prisco, Junior was let out of his contract and he respectfully vacated his belt.  Assuncao went 1-1 during his second run with the UFC, but was abruptly dismissed after his unanimous decision loss to Ross Pearson.  The company cited “an over crowded weight class” as the reason for his termination.  Junior took some time off following his release but is now refreshed , healthy, and ready to compete again.

Junior Assuncao (13-5)  has been fighting professionally since 2004.  A true veteran of the sport, Assuncao has spent time in the most recognizable organizations in the industry. He has been successful in the UFC, XFC, Shine and King of the Cage.  Before his loss to Pearson, Junior enjoyed a seven fight/three year win streak.  Assuncao holds seven wins by way of submission, two by knockout, and 4 by decision.

XFC President and Match Maker John Prisco had this to say about the Assuncao signing: “We are very excited to be able to welcome Junior back into the XFC.  Though he was only here for a short time before, I have always thought of him as a part of the XFC family; he was that pleasant to work with.  Even after Junior left us, I still kept communication open and a good working relationship with his team, not only to keep the door open for a possible return, but because I am sincerely a fan of his.  Junior is walking into an exciting time here at the XFC.  Our Featherweight “Tournament” will be held in September and October, and we will be crowning a champion shortly after.  Junior will, without a doubt, be right in the mix and waiting for whoever comes out of that tournament with the belt.  I also wouldn’t be surprised if he makes an appearance at Lightweight either.  He held our belt at that weight class before, so I can’t completely close the door on a possible return to that division. We will just have to wait and see.”

Nick Newell vs Scott Holtzman Title Fight Targeted for XFC 24

Nick Newell vs Scott Holtzman targeted for XFC 24 

A lightweight title fight between Nick Newell and Scott Holtzman is expected to take place in June at XFC 24 in Tampa, Florida.

Congenital amputee Newell (9-0, 4-0 XFC) who will be defending his belt for the fist time, having earned the strap at XFC 21 in December submitting Eric Reynolds by rear-naked choke in the first round, has finished 8 of his 9 opponents despite missing his left hand and most of his left forearm.

His opponent, challenger Scott Holtzman (4-0, 4-0 XFC) who turn pro in February 2012 has finished 3 of 4 opponents, and recent earned his title shot at February's XFC 22 beating Jason Hicks by unanimous decision in a number one contender bout.

XFC 24 is likely to take place at Times Forum, formerly St. Pete Times Forum, Tampa, with the main card expected to air live on US fight network AXS TV.

For more on XFC 24, stay tuned to the Calendar section on out site.

XFC 23: Louisville Slugfest (Fight Card)

XFC 23: Louisville Slugfest
Date: April 19, 2013
Kentucky International Convention Center, Louisville, Kentucky, USA

Main Card
Shamar Bailey vs Luis 'Sapo' Santos
Stephanie Eggink vs Angela Magana - For The XFC Womens Strawweight Title
Zach Underwood vs Deivison Ribeiro
Stephanie Skinner vs Angelica Chavez
Eric Moell vs Joey Diehl
Dom Steele vs Julio Gallegos

Preliminary Card
Charles Stanford vs BJ Ferguson
Scott Hope vs Joshua Blanchard

Brandon Sandefur vs Josh Cooper

Welsey Combs vs Derek Sawyer