K-1 Signs Nine Fighters From Recent U.S. Tryouts, Promotional Debuts Set For September 8th
James Wilson (photo via jameswilsonmma.com)
By FCF Staff
Following its open try-outs last month in Los Angeles, K-1 has announced that it has signed nine fighters from the event and that they will make their debut for the promotion on September 8th. The K-1 Rising U.S. World Grand Prix Championship event will be hosted by the LA Sports Arena.
“There was an incredible display of passion and talent at the K-1 Open Tryouts, and as a result we have discovered nine new fighters and signed them to K-1,” K-1 CEO Doug Kaplan was quoted saying in a press release from the promotion. “Six of these fighters will compete in the undercard, and three more are slotted to the main card in the Superfights. In all, there are about 30 more guys to be called back for additional drills, including some sparring, and we will do that as soon as possible. There are athletes all over the world that we want, and we are figuring out the right opportunity to bring them in.”
The first bout to feature competitors from the recent try-outs will feature James “The Beast” Wilson (3-0) 6’1″/255 lbs. vs. the 6’0”, 240 lbs Doug Sauer (8-1).
The second fight featuring K-1 and professional kickboxing newcomers will see 5’11, 154 lbs Jermaine Soto vs. Damien Earley, who is, 6’1″/154 lbs.
The last pair includes the 6’1”, 185 pound Mike LeMaire (1-0) versus Dylan Clay (2-0), 6’0″/185 lbs.
Also making their debuts will be the 5’6, 140 lbs Lerdsila Chumpairtour (6-5-5-draw) who will fight the 5’6″/140 lbs. Gabriel Varga (23-1). The Superfight will take place on the main card of the U.S. Grand Prix Championship.
In addition, the 6’1″/185 lb. Showtying Wedderburn (11-1) will make his K-1 debut in a Superfight against an opponent to be determined.
“I want to be sure that all the Hopefuls know how much K-1 appreciates each and every person who came together for our Open Tryouts,” said Kaplan. “We look forward to finding opportunities for many more in our series of events planned for next year. My message to everyone is to keep training safely, keep working hard, and please keep in touch through the K-1 Facebook and Twitter – update us on the progress of your career.”
