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Invicta FC 61 Features Ferreira-Palacios Atomweight Title Bout in Oklahoma

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SHAWNEE, Okla. — The most prestigious prize in the atomweight division will be on the line when Invicta Fighting Championships visits the Grand Casino Hotel & Resort in Shawnee, Okla., on Friday, April 4, for Invicta FC 61: Ferreira vs. Palacios.

The event is headlined by the first title defense for Brazil’s Elisandra “Lili” Ferreira (8-2), who matches up with Mexico’s Ana “Guerrera” Palacios (10-3-1). The 26-year-old Ferreira has yet to taste defeat under the Invicta banner, reeling off four straight victories. In her most recent appearance, Ferreira bested countrywoman Andressa Romero over five rounds to capture 105-pound gold. Also taking the division by storm, Palacios has quickly established herself as the No. 1 contender with back-to-back victories against Monique Adriane and Flor Hernandez. Now she’ll aim to dethrone Ferreira and claim the moniker of best atomweight on the planet.

In the co-main event, featherweights Jamie “Snickers” Edenden (5-2-1) and Jackie “The Hybrid” Cataline (5-3) are slated to collide yet again. The pair were originally slated to face off at Invicta FC 60, but a medical suspension pushed the pivotal 145-pound bout to April. Australia’s Edenden was successful in her first Invicta appearance, besting Mexico’s Abby Montes by decision in September. Meanwhile, the decorated wrestler Cataline impressed in her Invicta debut in August, handing previously undefeated Brazilian Kelly Ottoni her first loss.

Also on the main card, Oklahoma’s own — and former strawweight champion — Emily “Gordinha” Ducote (14-9) welcomes Brazilian Thaiane “Pancadão” Souza (9-7, 1 NC) to the promotion in a 120-pound catchweight and undefeated featherweight finisher Riley “Rad” Martinez (4-0) meets 21-year-old newcomer Jaeleen “The Natural” Robledo (2-1).

In preliminary card action, Brazil’s Taynara Silva (7-5) drops to the atomweight division to take on France’s Claire Lopez (8-6), Joy “Killjoy” Pendell (4-2) looks to build off her recent victory at Invicta FC 60 when she meets Brazilian featherweight Marilia “The Tigress” Morais (3-2), and unbeaten flyweight sensation Zoe Nowicki (2-0) faces off with Pennsylvania’s Kellie Marin (1-0).

Invicta FC 61: Ferreira vs. Palacios will air via CBS Sports Network at 8 p.m. ET/7 p.m. CT. The night’s preliminary card will stream live on Invicta’s official YouTube Channel and Facebook Page at 6:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. CT. Tickets to the event are available through the Grand Box Office.

The full fight card can be found below:

Atomweight Title: Elisandra “Lili” Ferreira vs. Ana Palacios
Featherweight: Jamie Edenden vs. Jackie Cataline
Catchweight (120 pounds): Emily Ducote vs. Thaiane Souza
Featherweight: Riley Martinez vs. Jaeleen Robledo
Atomweight: Taynara Silva vs. Claire Lopez
Featherweight: Joy Pendell vs. Marilia Morais
Flyweight: Zoe Nowicki vs. Kellie Marin

About Invicta FC:
A subsidiary of Anthem Sports and Entertainment, Inc., Invicta Fighting Championships is breaking barriers in women’s sports as the premier all-female promotion delivering unparalleled world championships and all-pro mixed martial arts (MMA) events. The history-making Invicta FC continues to pave the way for all to follow, providing female athletes from around the globe with a major platform where they are able to compete against other top talent. Founded in 2012 by veteran MMA executive Shannon Knapp, Invicta is pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA, putting the spotlight on the absolute best match-ups while identifying and developing the sport’s future stars. Follow Invicta on Instagram (@InvictaFC), TikTok (@InvictaFC), X (@InvictaFights) and Facebook (InvictaFights) for all the latest information. Watch Invicta FC live events on CBS Sports Network.

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Invicta FC 60 Results: Cantuária Batters Rubin, Lehner Bests Young

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ATLANTA – On Friday, Feb. 7, Invicta Fighting Championships returned to Georgia, hosting Invicta FC 60: Rubin vs. Cantuária from Center Stage in Atlanta.

The next bantamweight contender is Brazil’s Mayra Cantuária after a hard-fought battle with former title challenger Olga Rubin. The two southpaws wasted little time turning the arena on its head. First Cantuária caught Rubin with a clean left, but Rubin quickly answered with a heavy shot of her own. As she pressed forward, Cantuária countered with massive shots, sending Rubin crashing across the cage. She recovered for a moment, only for Cantuária to batter her with more punches. Rubin stumbled to the mat and pulled guard. The fight returned to the feet and the Brazilian again stunned Rubin with punches, prompting her to clinch. Rubin appeared recovered in round two and looked to navigate the defense of Cantuária. A lead uppercut from the Brazilian stunned Rubin and Cantuária followed it with a body shot. Another heavy left hand had Rubin on rubber legs. Cantuária changed levels and took the fight to the ground, where she would maintain top position for the remainder of the round. Round three began with a series of low kicks from Rubin. Cantuária sat back and looked to counter. Rubin landed a heavy body kick before the pair traded left hands. Rubin delivered a head kick and Cantuária quickly took her down and controlled from top position. The scorecards were read in favor of the Brazilian, who will look to avenge a previous loss to current champion Jennifer Maia.

The co-main featured a bantamweight showdown between veterans Katharina Lehner and Shanna Young. There was no feeling out process between the experienced fighters. A crisp right hand from Lehner popped the head of Young. Young resorted to her kicking arsenal to keep the German out of range. Lehner repeatedly found openings for her punches, cracking Young with boxing combinations from close range. The overhand right of Lehner became a piston, finding the nose of Young over and over again. A powerful push kick from Young greeted Lehner in round two. She answered with a combination of punches to back up Young. A heavy body kick from Young connected, as she looked to draw counterstrikes from Lehner. Lehner was effective by changing the level of her attack, scoring with low kicks. Young worked into the pocket to start the last stanza. She scored with short shots before Lehner circled away. A left hook from the German caught Young clean on the exit of an exchange. Young tried to increase her output, only to get countered with regularity by Lehner. The fight would go the distance and it was Lehner who took home the decision.

The promotional debut of Brazil’s Rayla Nascimento was a successful one, as she knocked off veteran flyweight Victoria Leonardo. Leonardo fired a variety of kicks to open the bout and find her striking range. Nascimento was patient, marching forward and cutting off the cage. A series of right hands from the Brazilian wobbled Leonardo. The veteran recovered and threw a wheel kick that Nascimento evaded. Another combination from Nascimento rocked Leonardo again. She desperately shot for a takedown, but Nascimento shrugged her off. Leonardo looked for another spinning attack but to no avail. The forward advance of Nascimento was undeterred to start round two, despite the flashy attacks from the American. The output from Nascimento was more measured as the round progressed. Leonardo changed levels for a takedown and even tried to pull guard, but Nascimento remained upright. Both fighters landed with left hooks in the third, but neither backed down. A front-leg side kick from Leonardo found the chin of Nascimento, who responded with a straight right hand. A spinning backfist by Leonardo was countered with a left hook. Nascimento increased her output in the final minute and both fighters flung wildly to the final bell. The judges were unanimous in their scorecards, rewarding Nascimento for her efforts.

Kicking off the main card, Brazil’s Liana Pirosin welcomed Shino VanHoose back to the promotion in a strawweight contest. A crisp left hook clipped VanHoose in the fight’s first exchange. Pirosin was able to double up on the punch before VanHoose answered with a pair of right straights. After a wild flurry, VanHoose secured a body lock and looked for a takedown. Pirosin was wise to it and spun her to the fence. VanHoose delivered knees to the head of the Brazilian. A counter right hand from VanHoose wobbled Pirosin late in the round. VanHoose looked for a trip late in the round, but Pirosin tossed her to the mat with an outside trip. Round two features more heavy strikes and both athletes wore damage. Pirosin landed a series of right hands and her confidence grew. A head kick from the Brazilian was partially blocked and VanHoose answered with a hook of her own. VanHoose connected with a thunderous body kick to open the final frame. Pirosin returned the strike, cracking VanHoose’s midsection. Another left hook from Pirosin found its mark and she just missed with a head kick. Both fighters threw caution to the wind in the fight’s final seconds and the judges were called upon to decide the result. In the end, it was Pirosin who walked away with unanimous decision win.

Wrapping up the preliminary-card action, Brazilian atomweight Giulliany Perêa took on American Hope Holmes. The speed of both fighters was on display from the opening bell as they traded combinations. Perêa caught a kick from Holmes and powered her to the ground. The Brazilian was patient from inside the guard of Holmes, posturing up for heavy punches. Holmes attacked with an armbar from the bottom, forcing a scramble. She repeated the attempt, but allowed Perêa to pass to side control in the process. A knee from Perêa connected with the head of Holmes on the ground, prompting a pause to the action and a return to the feet. Holmes was greeted by a massive overhand left from Perêa to start round two. Holmes clinched, but it was Perêa who earned the takedown and top position. Perêa was methodical from inside the guard, landing heavy strikes. The striking onslaught from Perêa continued in round three. Holmes absorbed repeated punishment, but kept active with her counterstrikes. A head kick from Perêa was caught by Holmes and she briefly held top position. Perêa swept from the bottom and landed in the full guard of Holmes. The fight was sent to the judges for a verdict and it was Perêa who remained undefeated with the decision.

Featherweights Joy Pendell and Julia Dorny collided looking to move up the 145-pound ranks. Pendell quickly ducked under a spinning strike and secured both hooks. She clung to Dorny, but the German was able to break free and land a crisp left hand. Dorny initiated the clinch and secured a trip takedown. Pendell pushed Dorny off of her and fired upkicks from the mat. Dorny remained aggressive, refusing to allow Pendell to get to her feet and punishing her legs with kicks. Pendell sprung for a late takedown as the round expired. Dorny peppered Pendell with punches to start the second frame, prompting Pendell to clinch and move to the cage. A takedown attempt from Pendell was thwarted by the judo of Dorny. The pair exchanged punches from range before Dorny closed the distance. Pendell changed levels and secured a double-leg takedown. She passed to mount, then took Dorny’s back. Dorny fought the choke for a moment, but eventually succumbed to the submission to give Pendell her first Invicta win.

The night began in the strawweight division as the debuting Amber Medina met Chicago’s Anna Somers. The fight immediately found the clinch and Medina pressed Somers to the fence. The pair traded knees as they jostled for position. Somers finished the grueling round with control against the cage. Medina’s dedication to her wrestling paid off in round two, as she put Somers on her back. Medina moved to mount and rained heavy shots. Somers gave up her back and was flattened out. She weathered the storm briefly, but Medina pinned her against the cage and battered her with left hands. The referee eventually intervened to hand Medina her first victory via TKO.

OFFICIAL RESULTS
Mayra Cantuária def. Olga Rubin by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)
Katharina Lehner def. Shanna Young by split decision (30-27, 28-29, 29-28)
Rayla Nascimento def. Victoria Leonardo by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
Liana Pirosin def. Shino VanHoose by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
Giulliany Perêa def. Hope Holmes by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
Joy Pendell def. Julia Dorny by submission (rear-naked choke). Round 2, 4:46
Amber Medina def. Anna Somers by TKO (punches). Round 2, 4:00

About Invicta FC:
A subsidiary of Anthem Sports and Entertainment, Inc., Invicta Fighting Championships is breaking barriers in women’s sports as the premier all-female promotion delivering unparalleled world championships and all-pro mixed martial arts (MMA) events. The history-making Invicta FC continues to pave the way for all to follow, providing female athletes from around the globe with a major platform where they are able to compete against other top talent. Founded in 2012 by veteran MMA executive Shannon Knapp, Invicta is pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA, putting the spotlight on the absolute best match-ups while identifying and developing the sport’s future stars. Follow Invicta on Instagram (@InvictaFC), TikTok (@InvictaFC), X (@InvictaFights) and Facebook (InvictaFights) for all the latest information. Watch Invicta FC live events on CBS Sports Network.

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Invicta FC 60: Rubin vs. Cantuária Official Weigh-in Results

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ATLANTA — On Thursday, Feb. 6, Invicta Fighting Championships hosted the weigh-ins for Invicta FC 60: Rubin vs. Cantuária. The event comes on the heels of the promotion’s Atlanta debut in December.

In the night’s headliner, two-time bantamweight title challenger “Big Bad” Olga Rubin (9-4) collides with Brazil’s Mayra Cantuária (10-6-1). The veterans are both looking to establish themself as the No. 1 contender and a crack at current champion Jennifer Maia.

The co-main event features UFC veteran Shanna “The Shanimal” Young (10-7) opposite fellow bantamweight Katharina “The German Gypsy” Lehner (8-5).

Invicta FC 60: Rubin vs. Cantuária takes place from Center Stage in Atlanta. The main card will air via CBS Sports Network at 7 p.m. ET. The night’s preliminary card will stream live on Invicta’s official YouTube Channel and Facebook Page at 5:30 p.m. ET.

Below are the results of the event’s weigh-ins:

Bantamweight: Olga Rubin (135.7) vs. Mayra Cantuária (135.7)
Bantamweight: Shanna Young (135.4) vs. Katharina Lehner (136)
Flyweight: Victoria Leonardo (126) vs. Rayla Nascimento (125.6)
Strawweight: Liana Pirosin (115.9) vs. Shino VanHoose (115.7)
Atomweight: Giulliany Perêa (105.8) vs. Hope Holmes (105.7)
Featherweight: Joy Pendell (146) vs. Julia Dorny (144.2)
Strawweight: Amber Medina (115.7) vs. Anna Somers (115.9)

About Invicta FC:
A subsidiary of Anthem Sports and Entertainment, Inc., Invicta Fighting Championships is breaking barriers in women’s sports as the premier all-female promotion delivering unparalleled world championships and all-pro mixed martial arts (MMA) events. The history-making Invicta FC continues to pave the way for all to follow, providing female athletes from around the globe with a major platform where they are able to compete against other top talent. Founded in 2012 by veteran MMA executive Shannon Knapp, Invicta is pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA, putting the spotlight on the absolute best match-ups while identifying and developing the sport’s future stars. Follow Invicta on Instagram (@InvictaFC), TikTok (@InvictaFC), X (@InvictaFights) and Facebook (InvictaFights) for all the latest information. Watch Invicta FC live events on CBS Sports Network.

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Invicta FC 60 Headlined by Bantamweight Collision on Feb. 7 in Atlanta

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ATLANTA — Invicta Fighting Championships is returning to the state of Georgia on Friday, Feb. 7, for Invicta FC 60: Rubin vs. Cantuária. The event comes on the heels of the promotion’s Atlanta debut in December, which saw a new bantamweight champion crowned.

In the night’s headliner, two-time bantamweight title challenger “Big Bad” Olga Rubin (9-4) collides with Brazil’s Mayra Cantuária (10-6-1). The veterans are both eager to state their case for the first crack at newly-minted belt holder, Jennifer Maia. Rubin — the only fighter in Invicta history to secure a buggy choke submission — was most recently in action against then-champion Talita Bernardo, falling short in her second quest for gold. Cantuária was dominant in her Invicta debut against Calie Cutler, but came out on the wrong side of a closely contested judges’ decision against the aforementioned Maia in her most recent Invicta appearance.

Also on the main card, UFC veteran Shanna “The Shanimal” Young (10-7) aims to build off the fastest knockout in Invicta history when she takes on fellow bantamweight veteran Katharina “The German Gypsy” Lehner (8-5), flyweight Victoria “Fury” Leonardo (10-6) meets Brazil’s Rayla “India” Nascimento (10-10), and Liana “Li” Pirosin (8-7) matches up with the returning Shino VanHoose (6-6) in a strawweight affair.

In preliminary card action, Brazil’s Giulliany “Giu” Perêa (2-0) takes on “The Hummingbird” Hope Holmes (2-1) in an atomweight match-up, California featherweight Joy “Killjoy” Pendell (3-2) clashes with German judoka Julia Dorny (2-2) to the promotion, and the debuting “Vicious” Amber Medina (0-0) meets fellow strawweight Anna “Honey Badger” Somers (2-2).

Invicta FC 60: Rubin vs. Cantuária takes place from Center Stage in Atlanta. The main card will air via CBS Sports Network at 7 p.m. ET. The night’s preliminary card will stream live on Invicta’s official YouTube Channel and Facebook Page at 5:30 p.m. ET. Tickets to the event are available through Ticketmaster.

The complete fight card can be found below:

Bantamweight: Olga Rubin vs. Mayra Cantuária
Bantamweight: Shanna Young vs. Katharina Lehner
Flyweight: Victoria Leonardo vs. Rayla Nascimento
Strawweight: Liana Pirosin vs. Shino VanHoose
Atomweight: Giulliany Perêa vs. Hope Holmes
Featherweight: Joy Pendell vs. Julia Dorny
Strawweight: Amber Medina vs. Anna Somers

About Invicta FC:
A subsidiary of Anthem Sports and Entertainment, Inc., Invicta Fighting Championships is breaking barriers in women’s sports as the premier all-female promotion delivering unparalleled world championships and all-pro mixed martial arts (MMA) events. The history-making Invicta FC continues to pave the way for all to follow, providing female athletes from around the globe with a major platform where they are able to compete against other top talent. Founded in 2012 by veteran MMA executive Shannon Knapp, Invicta is pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA, putting the spotlight on the absolute best match-ups while identifying and developing the sport’s future stars. Follow Invicta on Instagram (@InvictaFC), TikTok (@InvictaFC), X (@InvictaFights) and Facebook (InvictaFights) for all the latest information. Watch Invicta FC live events on CBS Sports Network.

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Invicta FC 59 Results: Maia Dethrones Bernardo To Become Bantamweight Champion

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ATLANTA – On Friday, Dec. 13, Invicta Fighting Championships debuted in the Peach state, holding Invicta FC 59: Bernardo vs. Maia from the Eastern in Atlanta.

In the night’s main event, bantamweight champion Talita Bernardo put her belt on the line against fellow Brazilian – and former flyweight titleholder – Jennifer Maia. Bernardo battered the lead leg of Maia with low kicks in the first minute of the fight. She ducked under the punches of Maia and looked for a takedown. Maia initially defended, but Bernardo imposed her will and tripped Maia to the mat. Bernardo rained short right hands from half guard, but Maia recovered her full guard. Maia worked for an armbar from the bottom, which Bernardo defended and escaped. Bernardo pinned Maia to the cage and dropped heavy punches and elbows. Round two began with the fighters trading kicks. Bernardo looked for a takedown, but it was Maia who landed in the top position. Maia tried to pass to mount with no avail. She again looked for an armbar before the fight returned to the feet. A right hand from Maia popped the head of Bernardo. Another takedown was stuffed by Maia, only for her to fall into a deep kneebar attempt. Bernardo cranked hard on the submission, but Maia remained calm and escaped to top position. A counter right hand from Maia found its mark to start the third frame. Bernardo answered with a body kick before shooting for a takedown. Maia defended and kept the fight on the feet. Bernardo failed on another takedown attempt and tried to coerce Maia to the ground. Maia had none of it and stayed content to score on the feet with combinations. Another shot from Bernardo turned into her dragging Maia on top of her. Maia passed to mount briefly and she finished the round in top position. Bernardo opened round four with a knee to Maia’s stomach. She then countered with a straight right to keep Maia at range. A clean right hand from Maia stunned Bernardo, who responded with a massive slam. Maia worked back to her feet before spinning Bernardo to her back. Maia transitioned to Bernardo’s back along the fence and flattened her out. Bernardo did not panic and regained her half guard late in the round. A pair of heavy left hands from Bernardo landed to start round five. She then dragged Maia to the ground and scrambled to her back. Maia escaped and was able to pass to side control before bringing the fight back to standing. A late takedown from Maia all but sealed the victory, as she became the first fighter in Invicta history to hold a title in multiple weight classes.

The co-feature saw Brazil’s Paula Bittencourt return to the win column, defeating Colombia’s Alejandra Lara. Lara opened with a jumping front kick and the pair wasted no time firing power punches. Bittencourt clinched, but it was Lara who took control and put the Brazilian against the fence. A scramble allowed Bittencourt to secure a body lock and she landed an elbow. When the pair separated, Lara delivered a heavy left hand before initiating the clinch once more. She clung to Bittencourt like glue, but Bittencourt was able to break free. Lara fired a left head kick and left straight, only to be countered by a right hand from Bittencourt. Round two featured a hook kick attempt from the Colombian, which did not connect. Bittencourt ducked under a punch to secure a body lock, but Lara’s balance prevented the fight from finding the canvas. A short hook from Bittencourt caught Lara charging into boxing range, prompting the veteran to return the fight to the clinch. A late takedown attempt from Lara was stuffed by the Brazilian. In the final round, Lara controlled the distance with her kicks. Bittencourt powered forward recklessly and found herself in the clinch again. A wild flurry from Bittencourt slowed the advance of Lara midway through the stanza. A thunderous body kick landed for Lara with a minute left in the bout and she doubled up on the strike. The fight went the distance and the judges were called upon to render a verdict. They were split in their scores, with Bittencourt eking out the win.

Former strawweight champion Valesca Machado gave Brazilian newcomer Yasmin Castanho a rude welcome to the Invicta cage with a dominant performance. A heavy right hand from Machado wobbled Castanho less than a minute into the fight. Castanho changed levels for a takedown, but was stuffed by Machado. A counter right from Machado again connected and Castanho tumbled to her back. She recovered, but was greeted by an uppercut from the former champ. Another takedown attempt from Castanho was shut down and she walked into a stiff right hand from Machado. The takedown defense of Machado held true throughout the opening frame. Machado closed the range with confidence in round two, countering each kick attempt from Castanho with a right hand. She continued to stuff every shot from Castanho. An overhand right, then left hook from Machado had Castanho on her back foot. Castanho desperately clung to a single in the round’s final seconds and brought the fight to the ground for the first time, but Machado prevented her from gaining a dominant position. The right hand of Machado landed over and over, as Castanho’s defense waned. Castanho attempted to pull guard after a failed takedown attempt, but Machado did not follow her to the ground. Machado punished Castanho’s final takedown effort with a series of elbows and punches. There was no doubt on the scorecards as Machado swept them all to earn the decision victory.

In an atomweight match-up Mexico’s Ana Palacios and Brazilian Monique Adriane looked to move closer to title shot at the other’s expense. The pair looked to find their range early in the bout. Adriane was the first to connect, sending Palacios to the canvas with a well-timed strike. The Mexican popped back to her feet and began to throw kicks to Adriane’s midsection and legs. Adriane caught a kick attempt from Palacios and dumped her back to the ground momentarily. Palacios scored with a heavy body kick late in the round that stunned Adriane. She followed it with a switch kick to the opposite side. Palacios showcased her speed in round two, scoring with quick combinations before Adriane could counter. The body kicks from Palacios continued to find their mark as the round progressed and Adriane’s frustration was evident. Adriane latched onto a single-leg attempt, but was peppered with short punches from Palacios, who remained upright. The last round mimicked the earlier rounds as the movement of Palacios forced Adriane to chase and prevented her from firing punches. The output from Palacios remained constant and Adriane became desperate late in the fight. She repeatedly failed on takedown attempts and the fight was sent to the judges for a decision. All three judges rewarded Palacios for her efforts, moving her into title contention.

The first Invicta bout inside the state of Georgia took place in the strawweight ranks as undefeated Chilean Fernanda Orellana met Ashley Barrett. Barrett quickly clinched in the fight’s opening minute and delivered knees to the midsection of Orellana. Orellana fired back with an elbow as the pair separated, but absorbed a massive right hand from Barrett that dropped her. Barrett looked to capitalize and scored a takedown. Orellana scrambled and turned the fight in her favor, taking Barrett’s back and locking in a rear-naked choke. Barrett survived the choke attempt, but was forced to defend an armbar from Orellana. The round concluded with Orellana looking for a guillotine choke, but she was unable to finish. A spinning backfist from Orellana greeted Barrett to start the second round, but the American was undeterred and took the fight to the clinch. Orellana delivered knees of her own. Barrett locked onto a head-and-arm throw and brought Orellana down to the mat. Orellana continued to show an active guard from her back, applying an armbar and briefly extending. Barrett fought free from the hold and finished the round on the back of Orellana. The fight’s final frame featured a quick throw from Barrett and she attacked with an arm-triangle from half guard. Orellana was able to bridge from her back and recover her guard. Barrett found herself in another armbar midway through the round, but the cage prevented Orellana from fully extending her arm. Barrett’s wrestling allowed her to escape and secure top position, but it was short lived as Orellana took her back. Orellana fished for the fight-finishing rear-naked choke and coerced a late tap from Barrett.

A scheduled featherweight bout between Riley Martinez and Jackie Cataline was removed from the card due to a medical issue.

OFFICIAL RESULTS
Jennifer Maia def. Talita Bernardo by unanimous decision (49-46 x3) – for bantamweight title
Paula Bittencourt def. Alejandra Lara by split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
Valesca Machado def. Yasmin Castanho by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
Ana Palacios def. Monique Adriane by unanimous decision (29-28 x3)
Fernanda Orellana def. Ashley Barrett by submission (rear-naked choke). Round 3, 4:24

About Invicta FC:
A subsidiary of Anthem Sports and Entertainment, Inc., Invicta Fighting Championships is breaking barriers in women’s sports as the premier all-female promotion delivering unparalleled world championships and all-pro mixed martial arts (MMA) events. The history-making Invicta FC continues to pave the way for all to follow, providing female athletes from around the globe with a major platform where they are able to compete against other top talent. Founded in 2012 by veteran MMA executive Shannon Knapp, Invicta is pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA, putting the spotlight on the absolute best match-ups while identifying and developing the sport’s future stars. Follow Invicta on Instagram (@InvictaFC), TikTok (@InvictaFC), X (@InvictaFights) and Facebook (InvictaFights) for all the latest information. Watch Invicta FC live events on CBS Sports Network.

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Invicta FC 59: Bernardo vs. Maia Official Weigh-in Results

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ATLANTA — On Thursday, Dec. 12, Invicta Fighting Championships hosted the weigh-ins for Invicta FC 59: Bernardo vs. Maia.

The event – the promotion’s debut in the Peach State – takes place Friday, Dec. 13 from The Eastern in Atlanta. The night’s main card airs live on CBS Sports at 9 p.m. ET, with the preliminary card streaming live on Invicta’s official YouTube Channel and Facebook Page at 8 p.m. ET.

In the night’s main event, current bantamweight queen Talita Bernardo (11-4) puts her belt on the line against fellow Brazilian Jennifer Maia (22-10-1). Bernardo looks to defend her 135-pound strap for a second time and extend her winning streak to six straight. Maia, meanwhile, is a former flyweight champion and aims to become the first fighter in promotional history to hold the title in different weight classes.

Below are the results of the event’s weigh-ins:

Bantamweight Title: Talita Bernardo (134.2) vs. Jennifer Maia (133.2)
Featherweight: Riley Martinez (144.4) vs. Jackie Cataline (145.4)
Catchweight (130 pounds): Alejandra Lara (129.2) vs. Paula Bittencourt (132.2)*
Strawweight: Valesca Machado (116) vs. Yasmin Castanho (115.2)
Atomweight: Monique Adriane (105.9) vs. Ana Palacios (105.7)
Strawweight: Ashley Barrett (115.9) vs. Fernanda Orellana (116)

* – Bittencourt missed the catchweight limit of 130 pounds and was fined 25 percent of her fight purse.

Additionally, a planned atomweight bout between Giulliany Perêa and Natalie Salcedo has been removed from the Invicta FC 59 fight card. It will be rescheduled for a future event.

About Invicta FC:
A subsidiary of Anthem Sports and Entertainment, Inc., Invicta Fighting Championships is breaking barriers in women’s sports as the premier all-female promotion delivering unparalleled world championships and all-pro mixed martial arts (MMA) events. The history-making Invicta FC continues to pave the way for all to follow, providing female athletes from around the globe with a major platform where they are able to compete against other top talent. Founded in 2012 by veteran MMA executive Shannon Knapp, Invicta is pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA, putting the spotlight on the absolute best match-ups while identifying and developing the sport’s future stars. Follow Invicta on Instagram (@InvictaFC), TikTok (@InvictaFC), X (@InvictaFights) and Facebook (InvictaFights) for all the latest information. Watch Invicta FC live events on CBS Sports Network.

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Invicta FC 59 Touches Down in Atlanta on December 13 with Bernardo-Maia Title Clash

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ATLANTA — Invicta Fighting Championships is headed to the Peach State on Friday, Dec. 13 with a bantamweight title bout between current champion Talita Bernardo (11-4) and former flyweight titleholder Jennifer Maia (22-10-1). The action will take place from The Eastern in Atlanta, with the main card airing live on CBS Sport Network.

The two Brazilian veterans have established themselves among the best 135-pound fighters on the planet with their recent performances. Bernardo aims to defend her belt for a second time and extend her winning streak to six straight. Four of those wins have come inside the Invicta cage — including three submission finishes — most recently defeating Olga Rubin at Invicta FC 55 in June. Maia, meanwhile, made a triumphant return to the promotion at Invicta FC 56, besting countrywoman Mayra Cantuária. As she sets her sights on the bantamweight crown, the former 125-pound queen looks to become the first woman in Invicta to win titles in multiple weight classes.

In the night’s co-feature, featherweights Riley “Rad” Martinez (4-0) and Jackie “The Hybrid” Cataline (5-3) jockey for position near the top of the 145-pound division. Idaho’s Martinez has opened her career with four first-round finishes, including a sub-two-minute rear-naked choke of Julia Dorny at Invicta FC 54. The decorated wrestler Cataline impressed in her Invicta debut in August, handing previously undefeated Brazilian Kelly Ottoni her first loss.

Also on the main card, Colombia’s Alejandra “Azul” Lara (11-7) takes on Brazilian Paula “Bittencourt” Cristina (6-3) in a flyweight match-up, and former strawweight champion Valesca “Tina Black” Machado (14-4) meets fellow Brazilian Yasmin “Monstrinha” Castanho (6-1). Atomweights contenders Monique Adriane (6-2) and Ana “Guerrera” Palacios (9-3-1) collide in the preliminary card headliner, and are joined by undefeated 105-pound prospects Giulliany “Giu” Perêa (2-0) and Natalie Salcedo (3-0), as well as strawweights Ashley “Smashley” Barrett (1-0) and Fernanda Orellana (2-0).

Invicta FC 59: Bernardo vs. Maia will air via CBS Sports Network at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT. Preliminary card action will stream live on Invicta’s official YouTube Channel and Facebook Page at 7:30 p.m. ET. Tickets to the event will be available on sale beginning Friday, Nov. 15 at noon ET through AXS.

The fight card can be found below:

Bantamweight Title: Talita Bernardo vs. Jennifer Maia
Featherweight: Riley Martinez vs. Jackie Cataline
Flyweight: Alejandra Lara vs. Paula Bittencourt
Strawweight: Valesca Machado vs. Yasmin Castanho
Atomweight: Monique Adriane vs. Ana Palacios
Atomweight: Giulliany Perêa vs. Natalie Salcedo
Strawweight: Ashley Barrett vs. Fernanda Orellana

About Invicta FC:
A subsidiary of Anthem Sports and Entertainment, Inc., Invicta Fighting Championships is breaking barriers in women’s sports as the premier all-female promotion delivering unparalleled world championships and all-pro mixed martial arts (MMA) events. The history-making Invicta FC continues to pave the way for all to follow, providing female athletes from around the globe with a major platform where they are able to compete against other top talent. Founded in 2012 by veteran MMA executive Shannon Knapp, Invicta is pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA, putting the spotlight on the absolute best match-ups while identifying and developing the sport’s future stars. Follow Invicta on Instagram (@InvictaFC), TikTok (@InvictaFC), X (@InvictaFights) and Facebook (InvictaFights) for all the latest information. Watch Invicta FC live events on CBS Sports Network.

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Invicta FC 58 Results: Ducote Submits Ostroverkhova, Leonardo Taps Torres

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KANSAS CITY, Kan. — On Wednesday, Nov. 6, Invicta Fighting Championships hosted Invicta FC 58: Ducote vs. Ostroverkhova from Memorial Hall.

The main event saw former strawweight champion Emily Ducote get back in the win column with a submission victory over Russia’s Yulia Ostroverkhova. After a thundering leg kick from Ducote, Ostroverkhova countered with a punching combination. Ducote returned the favor, countering with a right hand of her own. Ostroverkhova attacked the body of Ducote with a hook to keep the former champion guessing. Another heavy kick from Ducote battered the lead leg of the Russian. From the clinch, Ducote fired an elbow flush to Ostroverkhova’s temple, but absorbed more punches as they separated. The two combatants exchanged willingly from boxing range, with both fighters landing power shots late in the round. The second frame began much like the first ended, as both fighters fired in the pocket. Ducote timed a level change perfectly, powering Ostroverkhova to the mat with a double-leg takedown. From the half guard, Ducote looked to set up an arm-triangle, forcing Ostroverkhova to give up mount. From the dominant position, Ducote threw slicing elbows and kept her hips heavy. Ostroverkhova tried to bridge from the bottom, but Ducote locked on a fight-finishing armbar that forced the Russian to submit.

In her return to the Invicta cage, flyweight Victoria Leonardo met Brazilian Amanda Torres. After a brief feeling out period, Torres caught Leonardo flush with a right hand that stunned her. Leonardo responded by attacking the midsection of Torres with kicks. The flyweights settled in and began trading striking combinations from inside the pocket. Leonardo just missed with a wheel kick attempt. Leonardo stayed aggressive, powering Torres to the ground and delivering a flurry of punches to close the round. Torres began the second round with more urgency. Leonardo mixed in kicks and jabs to keep the Brazilian guessing. The volume of Torres increased throughout the round and she caught Leonardo with a heavy left hand. A spinning backfist from Torres found its mark, forcing Leonardo into a brief takedown. A stiff left from Leonardo wobbled Torres and the fight moved to the clinch. Torres fired a head kick that Leonardo barely evaded. Leonardo earned an early takedown in the fight’s final round. During the ensuing scramble, she pulled Torres on top of her, but used a leg lock attempt to gain top position and the half guard. Torres regained her guard and sought a triangle choke, but Leonardo showcased her veteran savvy, passing to full mount. She locked on an armbar and Torres had not choice but to tap.

Returning veteran Shanna Young gave Paraguay’s Pámela Bóveda a rude welcome to the organization in a bantamweight fight. Young wasted no time, unleashing a vicious barrage of punches and kicks. She backed Bóveda to the fence and rained punches, forcing the referee to stop the contest less than a minute into the bout. The 23-second TKO was the fastest finish in Invicta bantamweight history.

Featherweights Zurina Turrey and Joy Pendell made their Invicta debuts looking to make their mark on the division. Pendell quickly attacked the lead leg of Turrey with push kicks. She followed with a question-mark kick, but Turrey was undeterred. A straight right from Turrey was answered by a clinch from Pendell. Turrey struggled to peel Pendell off of her against the cage. After the referee briefly intervened, the fight immediately returned to the clinch and remained there for the rest of the round. Turrey battered the legs of Pendell to start the second round. Pendell clinched and worked hard for a single-leg takedown. The takedown defense of Turrey withstood the test and she punished Pendell with punches and knees. Pendell hung onto Turrey and tried to drag her down, to no avail. When Pendell clinched in round three, Turrey spun her to the fence and the pair jostled for position. Pendell finally secured a takedown, but she was unable to keep Turrey on her back. Turrey delivered heavy body shots and punches to the thigh of Pendell. Turrey landed a massive left hook in the fight’s waning seconds, but the grueling battle was sent to the judges. All three scored the bout in favor of Turrey, who moved to 5-1 with the win.

Kick off the main card, Colombia’s Sayury Cañon took on Mexico’s Abril Anguiano in a strawweight affair. Anguiano controlled the range early with her jab and footwork. Cañon delivered a heavy right hand and sought a takedown. Another massive right hand from Cañon rocked Anguiano. Despite a large hematoma on her forehead, Anguiano used her boxing experience to weather the storm from Cañon. Anguiano used long punches to force Cañon to retreat. It was short-lived as Cañon fired back with a flurry of her own late in the frame. In round two, Cañon changed levels with her punches, peppering the body of Anguiano. Anguiano remained patient, staying at range to counter Cañon’s aggression. Cañon sought a takedown, but it was shrugged off by Anguiano. A vicious uppercut from Anguiano was followed by a heavy leg kick to slow Cañon’s advance. Both fighters threw with volume to open the third round. Cañon briefly scored with a trip along the cage, but Anguiano bounced back to her feet. Anguiano worked the body of the Colombian. Cañon connected with a stiff jab and the lip of Anguiano was split open. Cañon worked for a late takedown to narrowly seal the deal on the scorecards, as she claimed the split verdict from the judges.

Unbeaten flyweight Zoe Nowicki clashed with debuting Polish newcomer Barbara Grabowska in the night’s final preliminary-card bout. Nowicki stalked Grabowska across the cage and briefly clinched. She then connected with a right hand and looked for a single-leg takedown. Grabowska defended before firing back with a combination of her own. The right hand of Grabowska became a piston, popping back the head of Nowicki. A reckless advance from Nowicki resulted in absorbing a massive left hook and a failed takedown attempt. Nowicki continued to test the takedown defense of Grabowska, but could not bring her to the mat. The American remained aggressive in round two, pushing forward and aiming to take Grabowska down. The flyweights traded knees in the clinch before Grabowska broke free. Midway through the frame, Nowicki went for an ankle pick and briefly brought Grabowska to the canvas. Grabowska scrambled free but absorbed a flurry of punches from Nowicki. The aggression of Nowicki resulted in a late takedown to close the stanza. The fight quickly found the clinch in round three, with Nowicki forcing Grabowska to the cage. The Polish fighter was able to separate and return to landing boxing combinations. A steady stream of knees from Grabowska prevented Nowicki from taking her down, but a late level change from Nowicki secured a double-leg takedown and she stuck to Grabowska like glue. The judges were called upon for a verdict and it was Nowicki claiming the hard-fought decision victory.

The night opened with an atomweight match-up between undefeated athletes Magdalena Czaban and Hope Holmes. The pair traded kicks as they looked to establish striking range. A right straight from Czaban connected, prompting a flurry from Holmes. Czaban clinched along the fence, but Holmes was able to spin free. The southpaw Holmes began to frustrate Czaban with kicks, but the Polish fighter scored with a big throw and landed in the top position. Holmes was active with her guard, preventing Czaban from mounting offense. Round two began with more kicks before Czaban changed levels and scored a trip takedown. Holmes briefly attacked with a guillotine. Czaban opened a large gash on the cheek of Holmes with an elbow. Czaban looked for a ninja choke, prompting Holmes to drop to the mat. That was unsuccessful, as Czaban transitioned and sunk the choke deeper and coerced the tap with a modified guillotine.

OFFICIAL RESULTS
Emily Ducote def. Yulia Ostroverkhova by submission (armbar). Round 2, 3:53
Victoria Leonardo def. Amanda Torres by submission (armbar). Round 3, 1:56
Shanna Young def. Pámela Bóveda by TKO (strikes). Round 1, 0:23
Zurina Turrey def. Joy Pendell by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
Sayury Cañon def. Abril Anguiano by split decision (30-27, 28-29, 29-28)
Zoe Nowicki def. Barbara Grabowska by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27)
Magdalena Czaban def. Hope Holmes by submission (guillotine choke). Round 2, 2:42

About Invicta FC:
A subsidiary of Anthem Sports and Entertainment, Inc., Invicta Fighting Championships is breaking barriers in women’s sports as the premier all-female promotion delivering unparalleled world championships and all-pro mixed martial arts (MMA) events. The history-making Invicta FC continues to pave the way for all to follow, providing female athletes from around the globe with a major platform where they are able to compete against other top talent. Founded in 2012 by veteran MMA executive Shannon Knapp, Invicta is pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA, putting the spotlight on the absolute best match-ups while identifying and developing the sport’s future stars. Follow Invicta on Instagram (@InvictaFC), TikTok (@InvictaFC), X (@InvictaFights) and Facebook (InvictaFights) for all the latest information. Watch Invicta FC live events on CBS Sports Network.

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Invicta FC 58: Ducote vs. Ostroverkhova Official Weigh-in Results

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KANSAS CITY, Kan. — On Tuesday, Nov. 5, Invicta Fighting Championships hosted the weigh-ins for Invicta FC 58: Ducote vs. Ostroverkhova, which takes place Wednesday, Nov. 6 from Memorial Hall.

In the night’s main event, former strawweight champion Emily “Gordinha” Ducote (13-9) collides with Russia’s Yulia Ostroverkhova (9-3-1). Oklahoma’s Ducote returns to the division she once reigned following a five-fight stint with the UFC. The 30-year-old will quickly look to get back into the title picture — for the belt she gave up voluntarily — and build on the momentum of four wins in her five Invicta appearances. Ostroverkhova will present a stern challenge for the former champion, fresh off a three-round battle with another former titleholder, Valesca Machado, at Invicta FC 56 in August.

Invicta FC 58: Ducote vs. Ostroverkhova will air via CBS Sports Network at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT. Preliminary card action will stream live on Invicta’s official YouTube Channel and Facebook Page at 7:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. CT.

Below are the results of the event’s weigh-ins:

Strawweight: Emily Ducote (115.5) vs. Yulia Ostroverkhova (115.5)
Flyweight: DeAnna Bennett (125.7) vs. Thaiane Souza (132.1)*
Flyweight: Victoria Leonardo (125.5) vs. Amanda Torres (127.4)+
Bantamweight: Shanna Young (135.3) vs. Pámela Bóveda (136)
Featherweight: Zurina Turrey (145) vs. Joy Pendell (146)
Strawweight: Sayury Cañon (114.7) vs. Abril Anguiano (117.8)^
Flyweight: Zoe Nowicki (125.7) vs. Barbara Grabowska (125.7)
Atomweight: Magdalena Czaban (105.7) vs. Hope Holmes (105)

* – Souza missed the flyweight limit of 126 pounds and the fight with Bennett was canceled

+ – Torres missed the flyweight limit of 126 pounds and was fined 25 percent of her purse

^ – Anguiano missed the strawweight limit of 116 pounds and was fined 25 percent of her purse

About Invicta FC:
A subsidiary of Anthem Sports and Entertainment, Inc., Invicta Fighting Championships is breaking barriers in women’s sports as the premier all-female promotion delivering unparalleled world championships and all-pro mixed martial arts (MMA) events. The history-making Invicta FC continues to pave the way for all to follow, providing female athletes from around the globe with a major platform where they are able to compete against other top talent. Founded in 2012 by veteran MMA executive Shannon Knapp, Invicta is pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA, putting the spotlight on the absolute best match-ups while identifying and developing the sport’s future stars. Follow Invicta on Instagram (@InvictaFC), TikTok (@InvictaFC), X (@InvictaFights) and Facebook (InvictaFights) for all the latest information. Watch Invicta FC live events on CBS Sports Network.

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Invicta FC 58 Headlined By Strawweight Showdown on November 6 in Kansas City

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KANSAS CITY, Kan. — A familiar face returns to Invicta Fighting Championships on Wednesday, Nov. 6, as former strawweight champion Emily “Gordinha” Ducote (13-9) collides with Russia’s Yulia Ostroverkhova (9-3-1) in a main event match-up, live from Memorial Hall in Kansas City.

Oklahoma’s Ducote returns to the division she once reigned following a five-fight stint with the UFC. The 30-year-old will quickly look to get back into the title picture — for the belt she gave up voluntarily — and build on the momentum of four wins in her five Invicta appearances. Ostroverkhova will present a stern challenge for the former champion, fresh off a three-round battle with another former titleholder, Valesca Machado, at Invicta FC 56 in August. The Ducote-Ostroverkhova bout replaces the previously announced headliner between Alejandra Lara and Viviane “Sucuri” Pereira, which has been canceled due to illness.

In the night’s co-main event, Invicta FC staple DeAnna “Vitamin D” Bennett (14-9-1) welcomes Brazilian flyweight Thaiane “Pancadão” Souza (9-7, 1 NC) to the promotion. The UFC and Bellator veteran Bennett returned to the Invicta cage in September, putting on a dominant display in a victory over Liz Tracy. A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, Souza has finished six of her nine career victories, including four via submission.

Also on the card, UFC veteran Victoria “Fury” Leonardo (9-6) returns to the Invicta cage to take on flyweight newcomer Amanda “Sardinha” Torres (9-7) of Brazil, another UFC veteran, Shanna “The Shanimal” Young (9-7) takes on Paraguay’s Pámela Bóveda (5-4) in a bantamweight match-up, rising featherweights Zurina “Mayhem” Turrey (4-1) and Joy “Killjoy” Pendell (3-1) aim to make their mark on the division, Colombia’s Sayury Cañon (3-1) welcomes Abril Anguiano (6-3) to the strawweight division, undefeated wrestling standout Zoe Nowicki (1-0) faces Barbara Grabowska of Poland in a flyweight contest, and Polish atomweight Magdalena “Atomówka” Czaban (1-0) collides with Texas-based Hope “Hummingbird” Holmes (1-0).

Invicta FC 58: Ducote vs. Ostroverkhova will air via CBS Sports Network at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT. Preliminary card action will stream live on Invicta’s official YouTube Channel and Facebook Page at 7:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. CT. Tickets to the event will be available on Wednesday, Oct. 2 for members of the Invicta Insiders Club, with the public sale beginning Thursday, Oct. 3 through Eventbrite.

The full fight card can be found below:

Strawweight: Emily Ducote vs. Yulia Ostroverkhova
Flyweight: DeAnna Bennett vs. Thaiane Souza
Flyweight: Victoria Leonardo vs. Amanda Torres
Bantamweight: Shanna Young vs. Pámela Bóveda
Featherweight: Zurina Turrey vs. Joy Pendell
Strawweight: Sayury Cañon vs. Abril Anguiano
Flyweight: Zoe Nowicki vs. Barbara Grabowska
Atomweight: Magdalena Czaban vs. Hope Holmes

A previously announced atomweight bout between Japan’s Saori “Little Giant” Oshima (14-5) and Mexico’s Ana “Guerrera” Palacios (9-3-1) has been removed from the card due to injury.

About Invicta FC:
A subsidiary of Anthem Sports and Entertainment, Inc., Invicta Fighting Championships is breaking barriers in women’s sports as the premier all-female promotion delivering unparalleled world championships and all-pro mixed martial arts (MMA) events. The history-making Invicta FC continues to pave the way for all to follow, providing female athletes from around the globe with a major platform where they are able to compete against other top talent. Founded in 2012 by veteran MMA executive Shannon Knapp, Invicta is pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA, putting the spotlight on the absolute best match-ups while identifying and developing the sport’s future stars. Follow Invicta on Instagram (@InvictaFC), TikTok (@InvictaFC), X (@InvictaFights) and Facebook (InvictaFights) for all the latest information. Watch Invicta FC live events on CBS Sports Network.