European promotion Cage Warriors has got a proven track record from taking the top talent from the region and getting them into major promotions like the UFC.
The same can be said for Liverpool-based gym Next Generation MMA, which has been able to grow significantly in recent years.
Paddy Pimblett and Molly McCann are very much the team captains of the gym in that sense but with Nathan Fletcher recently signing to the UFC from the same stable, the next wave of fighters from the north of England are making their way over.
Amongst them is one of the most exciting fighters in Europe right now, who, after missing out on his chance to compete on the Contender Series this year, is back on home turf this weekend.
John Gooden Tells Fans To Keep An Eye On Liverpool’s Luke Riley
Liverpool’s Luke Riley is an undefeated (9-0) featherweight who in many ways, is Pimblett’s protégé and right-hand man.
He was set to fight for his UFC roster at the Apex this year until his bout with Kevin Vallejos fell through due to visa issues.
Instead, Riley will be returning to Cage Warriors, where he has had all of his pro fights, to headline an event for the first time.
Ahead of his attempt to hit double digit wins when he faces Alexandre Junior at the BEC Arena in Manchester on September 21, UFC commentator John Gooden highlighted the potential future star via the official UFC Fight Pass YouTube channel.
“Freak athleticism, lighting speed and surgical accuracy are all features of Riley’s unmissable fight style. Currently running an unblemished 9-0 record with a knockout tally of six, 25-year-old Riley is on the brink of captivating a worldwide audience.”
Gooden spoke about some of the incredible fights that Riley has produced in his career, making his contests an absolute must-watch.
In particular, his clash with Alexander Lööf at CW 160 last year was nominated for the UFC Fight Pass fight of the year and stands out as one of the best bouts in the history of Cage Warriors.
Gooden continued to highlight why Riley is one of the most exciting strikers outside of the UFC right now, breaking down his love for throwing combinations.
“Riley’s fights are always exciting. I’m sure you’re picking up on his love for the knockout and he earns this with really beautiful, technical boxing. It is pretty rare to see such success from a combination fighter in MMA. So few are able to do it well, there are big risks in closing the distance and firing off multiple shots whilst wearing little four ounce gloves but when you have Riley’s speed, defensive hygiene and the delicate details of a watch maker, your work stands out.”
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