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Invicta FC 33 Results: Frey Again Edges Grusander, Retains Atomweight Title

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Kansas City, Mo. — On Saturday, Dec. 15, Invicta Fighting Championships hosted Invicta FC 33: Frey vs. Grusander II from the Scottish Rite Temple in Kansas City, Mo. The preliminary card streamed live on Facebook at 7:30 p.m. CT, with the five-fight main card airing on UFC Fight Pass beginning at 9 p.m. CT.

The Invicta atomweight belt is still around the waist of Jinh Yu Frey after another five-round war with Finland’s Minna Grusander. After a patient start, where both fighters threw leg kicks to find their range, Grusander dropped the champion with a right hand. Frey quickly recovered, but that allowed Grusander to take her to the ground. The Finnish fighter closed the round strong with punches from the top. In round two, Frey looked for a takedown, but could not secure it. The right hand of Grusander continued to land, wobbling Frey a second time. Frey responded with a stiff left of her own late in round two. The left hand of Frey did damage early in round three and she earned a takedown of her own. Grusander was able to get back to her feet and use her wrestling to make the round close. The pace slowed in the fourth round, but Frey was able to score with elbows from the clinch. The challenger stuck to her like glue, but she could not score another takedown. The nose of Grusander poured blood from the consistent left hands of Frey. The final stanza was largely even as both fighters were desperate to make a final impression on the judges. The final horn sounded and the decision was left to the judges at cageside. They were split in their verdict, but they rewarded Frey for her efforts, as she retained the belt.

UFC veteran Danielle Taylor handed Mexico’s Monserrat Ruiz her first career defeat after three, hard-fought rounds. Taylor’s striking attack kept Ruiz at bay in the fight’s first stanza. Ruiz frequently tried to clinch, but Taylor battered her lead leg with inside leg kicks. Taylor stayed at range, landing counter punches with regularity. The constant pressure from Ruiz was ineffective through the first two rounds, as Taylor’s leg kicks turned her leg purple. In the final round, Ruiz powered through Taylor’s punches, closing the distance. Taylor shrugged her off, but was forced to defend a leg lock attempt. That gave Ruiz an opening, and she took the fight to the canvas with a headlock. She was able to take Taylor’s back in the fight’s waning moments, but it was too little, too late, as Taylor was victorious.

Strawweight Kay Hansen pulled off one of the greatest comebacks in Invicta history, submitting Sharon Jacobson in the final seconds of the third round. Jacobson put on a clinic with her wrestling, largely controlling the 19-year-old Hansen for the entire fight. Stepping in on short notice, Hansen tried to push the pace, but Jacobson slammed her to the ground in the fight’s opening seconds. That set the tone for the fight, as Jacobson ragdolled Hansen throughout the first two rounds. She pounded on Hansen with ground and pound, but she could not put away the Californian. With less than a minute remaining in the fight, Jacobson looked for a throw, but Hansen latched onto an arm. Hansen went belly down and cranked, coercing the tap from Jacobson to pull off the unthinkable finish.

Michigan’s Alesha Zappitella is quickly moving up the atomweight ranks, as she dominated former title challenger Amber Brown over the course of three rounds. Zappitella used her wrestling prowess to put Brown on her back early and often. She frequently passed to side control and landed short shots. Brown tried to attack from her back, but Zappitella attacked with an arm-triangle choke and then a kimura. The experience of Brown was apparent, as she never panicked and frequently worked her way back to standing. Zappitella, however, was able to dictate where the fight took place, which proved to be the difference, as she captured the nod from all three judges.

The night’s main card kicked off with the return of Brianna Van Buren, who took on UFC veteran Jamie Moyle. Van Buren’s speed advantage was evident from the opening bell as she peppered Moyle with punching combinations. Moyle countered with forward pressure, prompting Van Buren to work the body. Late in the opening stanza, Van Buren flurried hard, backing Moyle against the fence and securing a takedown. The onslaught opened a large cut over the right eye of Moyle. Van Buren earned another takedown in round two, pinning Moyle against the fence. She scored with ground and pound, but could not find a finish. Van Buren kept her foot on the gas in the fight’s final frame, working Moyle’s body with kicks. When it was all said and done, Van Buren swept the judges’ scorecards.

Making her Invicta debut, bantamweight Brittney Victoria used her crisp boxing technique to get the best of veteran Sarah Kleczka on the scorecards to close out the preliminary card. Victoria scored with straight punches early in the fight, preventing Kleczka from getting into range. Kleczka was able to land counter shots and bloodied the nose of Victoria. Kleczka looked to bring the fight to the mat, but Victoria easily stuffed her shots and answered with punches. Kleczka’s nose also poured blood after Victoria delivered another series of right hands in the second round. The final frame was a back-and forth affair, but Victoria’s output was greater than Kleczka’s, earning her the decision win from all three judges.

Canadian newcomer Anastasia Nikolakakos sent a statement to the atomweight division, battering California’s Ashley Medina en route to a second-round TKO finish. Nikolakakos was the aggressor from the opening bell, forcing Medina to the mat and quickly taking her back. She rained punches before transitioning for an armbar. Medina was able to escape and return to her feet, but it was short lived as Nikolakakos again took her to the ground. Round two was more of the same, as Nikolakakos continued to pound away on Medina. After the barrage of strikes, the referee stepped in and Nikolakakos remained undefeated.

In a battle of debuting flyweights, Chantel Coates wasted little time dispatching of her fellow Kansas native Ashlynn Kleinbeck. Coates cracked Kleinbeck early with a right hand and Kleinbeck stumbled backwards. Coates smelled blood and went for the finish along the fence. Another massive right hand flush to the jaw sent Kleinbeck crashing to the mat unconscious, as Coates secures the fastest knockout in promotional history.

OFFICIAL RESULTS
Jinh Yu Frey def. Minna Grusander by split decision (48-47, 47-48, 48-47) – for atomweight title
Danielle Taylor def. Monserrat Ruiz by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
Kay Hansen def. Sharon Jacobson by submission (armbar). Round 3, 4:43
Alesha Zappitella def. Amber Brown by unanimous decision (29-28 x3)
Brianna Van Buren def. Jamie Moyle by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-26)
Brittney Victoria def. Sarah Kleczka by unanimous decision (29-28 x3)
Anastasia Nikolakakos def. Ashley Medina by TKO (strikes). Round 2, 3:26
Chantel Coates def. Ashlynn Kleinbeck by knockout (punch). Round 1, 0:28

About Invicta FC:

Invicta Fighting Championships is a world championship, all-pro mixed martial arts (MMA) fight series dedicated to providing female athletes with a major platform to hone their skills on a consistent basis. Founded in 2012 by longtime MMA executive Shannon Knapp, Invicta is committed to pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA by promoting the best possible match-ups between female competitors and identifying and developing future superstars of the sport. Follow Invicta on Twitter (@InvictaFights), Facebook (Facebook.com/InvictaFights), and Instagram (@InvictaFC) for all the latest information.

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Invicta FC 32 Results: Spencer Chokes Sorenson, Claims Vacant Featherweight Championship

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Shawnee, Okla. — On Friday, Nov. 16, Invicta Fighting Championships hosted Invicta FC 32: Spencer vs. Sorenson from the FireLake Arena in Shawnee, Okla. The event streamed live on UFC Fight Pass beginning at 8 p.m. ET.

There’s a new featherweight champion as Felicia Spencer outworked Pam Sorenson and earned a fourth-round submission victory. Spencer powered into the clinch and took Sorenson to the ground early in the fight. She scrambled to Sorenson’s back and began looking for a choke attempt. Sorenson defended well, as Spencer settled for short strikes and positional control. The tide turned in round two, as Sorenson used her Muay Thai and balance to stay upright and score with knees and elbows. Spencer reclaimed momentum in round three, mixing in a variety of kicks to accompany her aggressive clinch game and takedowns attempts. She stunned Sorenson with a series of punches, but could not find a finish. It was more of the same in round four, but a late takedown from Spencer led to a scramble and she again took Sorenson’s back. Once there, she slapped on a rear-naked choke and Sorenson was forced to tap. Spencer is now the third featherweight champion in promotional history and has tied the record for the most submissions inside the Invicta cage.

In the co-main event, Japan’s MIZUKI battled UFC veteran Viviane Pereira. MIZUKI threw a kick early, which allowed Pereira to dump her to the canvas. She sprung back to her feet and looked for a throw, but Pereira powered her to the ground. MIZUKI looked for an armbar, then a leg lock, which allowed her to gain top position. She passed to mount and finished the round pounding on Pereira. With the momentum clearly in her favor, MIZUKI used her head movement and footwork to set up her crisp boxing. Pereira stood directly in front of the former title challenger, absorbing right hand after hand. The Brazilian was clearly frustrated by the assault, but she could not stop it. MIZUKI fed her a steady diet of punches until the final bell, claiming every round from every judge.

Atomweight Ashley Cummins gave Brazilian newcomer Jessica Delboni a rude welcome to the promotion, giving the previously undefeated fighter her first career loss. The pace of the fight was very fast from the opening bell. Delboni scored with leg kicks, which were countered by jabs by Cummins. That set the tone of the fight, as the boxing of Cummins landed with regularity. The veteran mixed in takedown attempts to keep Delboni guessing. A guillotine attempt from Cummins led to the Brazilian gaining top position. It proved to be a disadvantage, as Cummins attacked with an armbar. The jab of Cummins was more and more effective as the fight progressed, keeping Delboni from delivering any damage. When the cards were read, it was Cummins who walked away victorious.

Former Invicta matchmaker Kaitlin Young returned to the promotion’s cage, stopping late-notice opponent Sarah Patterson in under 90 seconds. The pair exchanged leg kicks early, before Young stunned Patterson with a left hand. Young continued delivering kicks, hurting the lead leg of Patterson. The Iowa fighter crumpled to the canvas and Young finished her off with strikes.

Bantamweight Julia Avila sent a message to current champion Sarah Kaufman, demolishing Alexa Conners inside two rounds. Avila came out firing, backing up Conners with punches. Conners was stunned by the early onslaught, but did not go down. Avila mixed up her attack, severely damaging the nose of Conners. Blood poured from the nose and mouth of Conners as Avila continued her assault. In the second round, Avila picked up her output, battering Conners with kicks and knees. Along the cage, Avila unleashed a barrage of punches that hurt Conners. She tried to survive, but a kick from Avila forced her to cover up. The damaging shots were too much for the referee, who stepped in to save Conners from further harm.

Two talented 19-year-old fighters went to battle as flyweights Erin Blanchfield and Kay Hansen fought hard for three rounds. Hansen was the aggressor early, initiating the clinch. Blanchfield showed her strength, reversing the position. That would be the story of the fight, as Blanchfield’s clinch control was too much for Hansen to overcome. An accidental head butt opened a cut over the left eye of Hansen, but she was undeterred. Blanchfield earned a takedown midway through the fight, but she was unable to capitalize. The back-and-forth affair went the full 15 minutes and the judges were called upon for a verdict. One judges saw it even, but the other two dissented, handing Blanchfield the majority-decision win.

Flyweights Stephanie Geltmacher and Liz Tracy put on a show in the night’s third bout. The two talented grapplers put their chins to the test in the opening frame, standing in the pocket and trading wild, looping hooks. Both fighters fired shot after shot, but the pace never slowed. Tracy looked for a takedown in the middle round, but Geltmacher easily shrugged her off. The heavy punches continued, but Tracy began to utilize her front kicks to control the range. Blood poured from the nose of Geltmacher, matching the red of her fight attire. Tracy was able to slip numerous punches in the fight’s last five minutes and quickly bounced back from a takedown attempt from Geltmacher. It wasn’t enough, however, as the judges gave Oklahoma’s Geltmacher the decision nod.

The second bout of the evening featured a strawweight contest between newcomer Kathryn Paprocki and GLORY Kickboxing veteran Isis Verbeek. Verbeek’s striking was on display early, connecting with a heavy left hand. That prompted Paprocki to look for the clinch and eventually a takedown. Once on the mat, Paprocki took control of the fight. In round two, the Colorado fighter again brought the fight to the mat and mounted Verbeek. She rained short shots, but landed an illegal head butt. The referee took a point and the position from Paprocki. The final round saw Verbeek threaten with a guillotine choke, but Paprocki escaped, moved to mount and threatened with an armbar. Despite the point deduction, Paprocki cruised to the decision victory.

The night’s action opened with a bantamweight match-up between the returning Chelsea Chandler and newcomer Mitzi Merry. Chandler was very active with her punches in the fight’s opening stanza, wobbling Merry with a short left hand. She used that momentum to get the clinch, where she battered the midsection of Merry with knees. That would prove to be the story of the fight, as Chandler was able to neutralize Merry’s offense for the remainder of the fight. Chandler swept the scorecards with the strong performance.

OFFICIAL RESULTS
Felicia Spencer def. Pam Sorenson by submission (rear-naked choke). Round 4, 4:23 – for featherweight title
MIZUKI def. Viviane Pereira by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
Ashley Cummins def. Jessica Delboni by unanimous decision (29-28 x3)
Kaitlin Young def. Sarah Patterson by TKO (kick and punches). Round 1, 1:25
Julia Avila def. Alexa Conners by TKO (strikes). Round 2, 4:43
Erin Blanchfield def. Kay Hansen by majority decision (28-28, 29-28, 29-28)
Stephanie Geltmacher def. Liz Tracy by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
Kathryn Paprocki def. Isis Verbeek by unanimous decision (29-27, 29-27, 29-26)
Chelsea Chandler def. Mitzi Merry by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-26)

About Invicta FC:

Invicta Fighting Championships is a world championship, all-pro mixed martial arts (MMA) fight series dedicated to providing female athletes with a major platform to hone their skills on a consistent basis. Founded in 2012 by longtime MMA executive Shannon Knapp, Invicta is committed to pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA by promoting the best possible match-ups between female competitors and identifying and developing future superstars of the sport. Follow Invicta on Twitter (@InvictaFights), Facebook (Facebook.com/InvictaFights), and Instagram (@InvictaFC) for all the latest information.

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Invicta FC 31 Results: Jandiroba Chokes Morandin, Retains Strawweight Title

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Kansas City, Mo. — On Saturday, Sept. 1, Invicta Fighting Championships hosted Invicta FC 31: Jandiroba vs. Morandin from the Scottish Rite Temple in Kansas City, Mo. The event streamed live on UFC Fight Pass beginning at 8 p.m. ET.

The Invicta FC strawweight belt remains around the waist of undefeated Brazilian Virna Jandiroba after she submitted countrywoman Janaisa Morandin. After a feeling out process on the feet, the champion exploded for a takedown. She worked to the mount position, but Morandin was able to recover her guard. Jandiroba peppered Morandin with short shots as the first round came to a close. Round two saw Jandiroba again earn a takedown, but this time, she effortlessly passed to mount and attacked the neck of the challenger with a choke. The arm-triangle was deep, forcing Morandin to submit.

Pearl Gonzalez picked up her third straight win — second in the flyweight division — with a decision victory over Brazilian Daiane Firmino. Gonzalez fired kicks immediately which allowed Firmino to power the fight to the ground. Gonzalez was able to gain top position, but Firmino worked back to her feet. The pair worked hard in the clinch, trading short knees. The second round saw Gonzalez land a huge throw to delight the crowd. Gonzalez worked from the scarf hold position, threatening with multiple submissions. Firmino was game, nearly taking Gonzalez’s back. In the last frame, Firmino pushed the action. She secured a takedown, but was forced to defend an armbar attempt and triangle choke threat from Gonzalez. The fight went to the judges for a verdict and they rewarded Gonzalez for her efforts.

In a battle of undefeated bantamweights, Lisa Spangler narrowly edged Shanna Young on the scorecards. The karate style of Young was evident from the opening bell, as she repeatedly fired head kicks with her lead leg. The attacks appeared to surprise Spangler, as she absorbed a lot of punishment early, bleeding heavily from her nose. Spangler settled in during the second round, landing combinations and marching through the kick attempts. Young continued her kicking arsenal, but Spangler landed heavy punches to the body. The fight’s lone takedown came in round three, as Spangler briefly put Young on her back. The pair returned to the center of the cage in the waning moments, trading heavy punches as the crowd erupted. The judges were split, with Spangler handing Young her first defeat.

Colorado’s Mallory Martin continued her winning streak, stopping Canada’s Ashley Nichols in the third round. Nichols started strong, dropping Martin early with a right hand. Martin recovered and was able to earn a takedown. The second stanza saw Martin earn another takedown, but she was unable to mount much offense. Round three saw Martin come out aggressively. She put Nichols on her back along the fence and went for the finish. Martin dropped a series of heavy elbows, hurting Nichols in the process. The referee saved Nichols from further damage, giving Martin the TKO victory.

Flyweight Miranda Maverick quickly returned to the win column with a first-round finish of Louisiana’s Victoria Leonardo. After a brief striking exchange, Maverick closed the distance and methodically worked for a takedown. Once on top, she passed to the mount. Leonardo tried to escape through the back door, but Maverick latched onto her right arm. Leonardo desperately looked to escape, but Maverick cranked hard, coercing the armbar finish.

Competing as an atomweight for the first time, Missouri’s Kelly D’Angelo bested newcomer Lindsey VanZandt by decision. VanZandt was quick to attack with her takedowns, but fell into the dangerous guard of VanZandt. D’Angelo first attacked with a triangle choke, then an armbar. VanZandt nearly turned purple, but did not tap. D’Angelo was able to mount and deliver punishment from the top. It was more of the same in round two, as D’Angelo again threatened with submissions. VanZandt went for it in round three, firing high kicks and a flying knee, but it wasn’t enough, as D’Angelo scored the unanimous decision win.

Strawweight Kay Hansen used a well-round attack, earning a third-round stoppage win over the previously undefeated Helen Peralta. The pair spent the majority of the first two rounds jostling for position in the clinch. Hansen was able to change levels — avoiding any damage — and scoring with takedowns. In the third round, Hansen’s work paid off, as she earned a big slam and passed to the mount. Once there, she unleashed a flurry of elbows and punches that forced the referee to step in and halt the contest.

Kicking off the night’s action live and free on Facebook, featherweights Audrey Wolfe and Holli Salazar battled to a draw after three rounds. Salazar repeatedly landed her right hand early, prompting a takedown from Wolfe. Salazar attacked with an armbar from her back that forced Wolfe to defend. In the second frame, Salazar again did damage with her right hand, scoring in the clinch. Wolfe worked hard for a takedown in the final frame. She landed an illegal head butt from inside the guard of Salazar, forcing referee Greg Franklin to deduct a point. That proved to be a factor, as all three judges scored the bout a draw.

OFFICIAL RESULTS
Virna Jandiroba def. Janaisa Morandin by submission (arm-triangle choke). Round 2, 2:23 – for strawweight title
Pearl Gonzalez def. Daiane Firmino by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-27)
Lisa Spangler def. Shanna Young by split decision (28-29, 30-27, 29-28)
Mallory Martin def. Ashley Nichols by TKO (strikes). Round 3, 1:05
Miranda Maverick def. Victoria Leonardo by submission (armbar). Round 1, 3:26
Kelly D’Angelo def. Lindsey VanZandt unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
Kay Hansen def. Helen Peralta by TKO (strikes). Round 3, 4:16
Holli Salazar vs. Audrey Wolfe ruled a unanimous draw (28-28 x3)

About Invicta FC:

Invicta Fighting Championships is a world championship, all-pro mixed martial arts (MMA) fight series dedicated to providing female athletes with a major platform to hone their skills on a consistent basis. Founded in 2012 by longtime MMA executive Shannon Knapp, Invicta is committed to pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA by promoting the best possible match-ups between female competitors and identifying and developing future superstars of the sport. Follow Invicta on Twitter (@InvictaFights), Facebook (Facebook.com/InvictaFights), and Instagram (@InvictaFC) for all the latest information.

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Invicta FC 30 Results: Frey Edges Grusander, Captures Atomweight Title

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Kansas City, Mo. — On Saturday, July 21, Invicta Fighting Championships hosted Invicta FC 30: Frey vs. Grusander from the Scottish Rite Temple in Kansas City, Mo. The event streamed live and exclusively on UFC Fight Pass beginning at 8 p.m. ET.

The Invicta atomweight belt now belongs to Jinh Yu Frey, as she edged Finland’s Minna Grusander by decision after five grueling rounds. Grusander was heavy in the clinch throughout the fight, pinning Frey to the fence. Frey countered with knees to the body to separate. Grusander worked hard for multiple takedowns against the fence, looking for an armbar late in the opening stanza. Frey utilized her own wrestling attack, earning takedowns in the middle rounds. In the third round, Frey was the most effective, threatening with a rear-naked choke. Grusander rebounded with slicing elbows in the fourth, negating another takedown from Frey. The fifth and final stanza saw both fighters dig deep, but neither could find the finish. The judges had their work cut out for them, but handed down a unanimous decision win for Frey.

The undefeated record of featherweight Felicia Spencer remains intact after she submitted Ukrainian Helena Kolesnyk in the second round. Spencer used her taekwondo background to fire off a variety of kicks, but Kolesnyk was able to avoid damage and fire punches. Spencer scored with a trip takedown and quickly took the back of Kolesnyk along the cage. She worked for a choke, but could not secure it. In round two, it was more of the same, as Spencer was able to gain a dominant position on the mat. When Kolesnyk rolled to her stomach, Spencer sunk in the fight-finishing rear-naked choke and coerced the tap.

Veteran Heather Jo Clark successfully debuted in the Invicta cage, outworking Brazilian Kinberly Novaes over the course of three rounds. Clark came out firing, landing a right straight and spinning backfist. Novaes clinched and the fight stalled along the fence. The pair traded knees from the inside for the majority of the opening frame. In round two, Clark powered into a blast double-leg takedown and scored with heavy shots from the top. Down on the scorecards entering the final frame, Novaes came forward with a purpose in the final round. Clark looked for a takedown, but Novaes sprawled and was able to takes Clark’s back as time expired. It was too little, too late for Novaes, as Clark claimed the decision nod.

In a battle of unbeaten flyweights, Guam’s Brogan Walker-Sanchez put an end to Miranda Maverick’s unblemished record. Walker-Sanchez was quick to close the distance, but it was Maverick who looked to take the fight to the canvas. She did so late in round one, finishing the round on top. Maverick again looked to grapple in round two, as the pair traded leg lock attempts. Walker-Sanchez used the 50-50 position to get to top position and then move to Maverick’s back. Round three featured a lot of single punches from each fighter, but a late single-leg attempt from Maverick ended with Walker-Sanchez in side control. When the scorecards were read, it was Walker-Sanchez who took home the decision.

Stepping in on short notice, Stephanie Geltmacher made short work of bantamweight Kerri Kenneson in the first round. Geltmacher used her wrestling to put Kenneson on her back immediately. She passed to mount and began to unleash an assault of punches and elbows. Kenneson held on as long as she could, but after dozens of unanswered strikes, the referee stepped in to halt the contest.

Alesha Zappitella quickly put a stamp on the 105-pound division, handing Jillian DeCoursey her first career defeat. Zappitella was aggressive coming forward, scoring with flurries that backed DeCoursey against the fence. She rocked DeCoursey a number of times with her overhand right. Zappitella was also able to utilize her wrestling pedigree, neutralizing the ground game of DeCoursey from inside the half guard. DeCoursey showcased her toughness, absorbing the heavy shots from Zappitella and smiling in response. But it was Zappitella’s constant offense that allowed her to sweep the judges’ scorecards.

Atomweight Alyse Anderson returned to the win column with a highlight-reel finish of Stephanie Alba. The pair exchanged on the feet before Anderson initiated the clinch and earned a takedown. She was able to pass to mount, forcing Alba to give up her back. Anderson looked for rear-naked choke, but the round expired. In the second frame, Anderson again clinched and looked for a takedown. Alba was able to return to the feet and put Anderson against the fence, but Anderson went for a flying triangle. The choke was deep and eventually put Alba out cold.

The night’s action kicked off with a battle of debuting flyweights as Erin Blanchfield took on Brittney Cloudy. Cloudy’s jab was her primary weapon in the first round, as kept Blanchfield at range. A right hand from Cloudy wobbled Blanchfield midway through the frame. Round two saw Blanchfield fire back, scoring with a slapping head kick and earning a takedown. She looked for an armbar, but Cloudy would survived the stanza. The final round largely took place on the feet, but a late takedown from Blanchfield was enough to sway two of the judges to award her the decision victory.

OFFICIAL RESULTS
Jinh Yu Frey def. Minna Grusander by unanimous decision (49-46, 48-47, 48-47) – for atomweight title
Felicia Spencer def. Helena Kolesnyk by submission (rear-naked choke). Round 2, 1:47
Heather Jo Clark def. Kinberly Novaes by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)
Brogan Walker-Sanchez def. Miranda Maverick by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
Stephanie Geltmacher def. Kerri Kenneson by TKO (strikes). Round 1, 3:32
Alesha Zappitella def. Jillian DeCoursey by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
Alyse Anderson def. Stephanie Alba by technical submission (flying triangle choke). Round 2, 3:12
Erin Blanchfield def. Brittney Cloudy by split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

About Invicta FC:

Invicta Fighting Championships is a world championship, all-pro mixed martial arts (MMA) fight series dedicated to providing female athletes with a major platform to hone their skills on a consistent basis. Founded in 2012 by longtime MMA executive Shannon Knapp, Invicta is committed to pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA by promoting the best possible match-ups between female competitors and identifying and developing future superstars of the sport. Follow Invicta on Twitter (@InvictaFights), Facebook (Facebook.com/InvictaFights), and Instagram (@InvictaFC) for all the latest information.

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Invicta FC 29 Results: Kaufman Submits Lehner, Claims Bantamweight Title

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Kansas City, Mo. — On Friday, May 4, Invicta Fighting Championships hosted Invicta FC 29: Kaufman vs. Lehner from the Scottish Rite Temple in Kansas City, Mo. The event streamed live and exclusively on UFC Fight Pass beginning at 8 p.m. ET.

There’s a new champion in the bantamweight division as veteran Sarah Kaufman secured the first submission victory of her storied career, choking Germany’s Katharina Lehner in the third round. There was no feeling-out process as the pair exchanged punches in the center of the cage following the opening bell. Kaufman was fluid with her combinations, but Lehner responded with heavy right hands of her own. Round two saw Kaufman secure double underhooks and earn a takedown. She attacked with an arm-triangle choke, but Lehner was able to survive and escape. Kaufman again secured a takedown in the third round and opened up a large cut on Lehner with ground and pound. She sensed the finish was near and attacked the neck of the German fighter. Once the rear-naked choke was locked in, Lehner tapped and Kaufman claimed the title.

In the night’s co-main event, veteran Pannie Kianzad returned to the win column, defeating Brazilian newcomer Bianca Daimoni. The boxing skills of Kianzad were on display early and often, as she lit up Daimoni with combinations on the feet. Daimoni tried to answer with kicks, but Kianzad stayed out of range. A left hook from Kianzad dropped Daimoni in the second stanza. Kianzad was confident in the final five minutes, snapping the head of Daimoni frequently with her jab. There was no doubt on the scorecards as Kianzad earned every round from each of the judges.

The flyweight bout between Pearl Gonzalez and Brazil’s Bárbara Acioly did not last long as Gonzalez secured a first-round armbar finish. Gonzalez wobbled Acioly with a left hand in the first exchange, but the Brazilian was able to recover. The pair traded body kicks, but Gonzalez earned a takedown and moved to mount. She looked for an armbar, but Acioly scrambled to top position. Gonzalez threatened with a triangle choke before again switching to the armbar and coercing the tap from Acioly.

Marciea Allen made a successful return to the promotion, scoring a first-round TKO after opponent Julia Avila suffered an injury to her finger. Within the fight’s first minute, Allen fired a kick that caught Avila in the hand. She tried to shake it off, but the referee realized she was injured and waved off the contest.

Flyweight veterans Liz Tracy and Cheri Muraski went the distance, with Tracy capturing the decision nod. Tracy’s forward pressure was the story of the fight, as she closed the distance and forced Muraski to work in the clinch. Tracy was able to move to Muraski’s back on multiple occasions, scoring with short shots. Tracy used her wrestling to secure takedowns in each of the first two frames. Muraski’s face wore the damage of Tracy’s punches, but she fought back hard in the final round. It was too little, too late as Tracy left victorious.

Making her professional debut, Lisa Spangler edged Sarah Kleczka in a back-and-forth affair. Spangler did damage to the lead leg of Kleczka with leg kicks in the opening stanza. Kleczka answered with frequent overhand rights and kicks to the body of Spangler. As the fight wore on, Spangler capitalized on Kleczka’s takedown attempts, scoring with heavy hammerfists. When the scorecards were read, it was Spangler who walked away with the win.

In a battle of featherweights, Macy Chiasson topped Allison Schmidt after three, hard-fought rounds. Chiasson used her height and reach advantage, as well as switching stances, to puzzle Schmidt early. She repeatedly scored with punches from range, causing the face of Schmidt to swell. Schmidt looked to bring the fight to the mat often, but Chiasson’s takedown defense held up, as she continued to score on the feet. After three rounds, Chiasson swept the scorecards.

Strawweight Helen Peralta picked up her second straight win in the Invicta cage, handing newcomer Cheyanne Vlismas her first professional defeat. Peralta’s kicks were the story in round one, as Vlismas looked to counter. In round two, it was the hands of Peralta that did the damage, as she dropped Vlismas with a right straight-left hook combination. Vlismas was game, surviving the onslaught and pressing the action in the final frame. It wasn’t enough, however as Peralta claimed the decision victory.

OFFICIAL RESULTS
Sarah Kaufman def. Katharina Lehner by submission (rear-naked choke). Round 3, 4:30 – for bantamweight title
Pannie Kianzad def. Bianca Daimoni by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
Pearl Gonzalez def. Bárbara Acioly by submission (armbar). Round 1, 1:30
Marciea Allen def. Julia Avila by TKO (finger injury). Round 1, 0:49
Liz Tracy def. Cheri Muraski by unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27, 30-27)
Lisa Spangler def. Sarah Kleczka by unanimous decision (29-28 x3)
Macy Chiasson def. Allison Schmidt by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
Helen Peralta def. Cheyanne Vlismas by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)

About Invicta FC:

Invicta Fighting Championships is a world championship, all-pro mixed martial arts (MMA) fight series dedicated to providing female athletes with a major platform to hone their skills on a consistent basis. Founded in 2012 by longtime MMA executive Shannon Knapp, Invicta is committed to pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA by promoting the best possible match-ups between female competitors and identifying and developing future superstars of the sport. Follow Invicta on Twitter (@InvictaFights), Facebook (Facebook.com/InvictaFights), and Instagram (@InvictaFC) for all the latest information.

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Invicta FC 28 Results: Jandiroba Tops MIZUKI, Captures Strawweight Gold

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Salt Lake City — On Saturday, March 24, Invicta Fighting Championships made its first trip to the state of Utah, hosting Invicta FC 28: MIZUKI vs. Jandiroba from the Union Event Center in the capital of the Beehive State. The event streamed live and exclusively on UFC Fight Pass beginning at 8 p.m. ET.

Undefeated Brazilian Virna Jandiroba is the new Invicta FC strawweight champion after largely dominating Japan’s MIZUKI from bell to bell. Jandiroba took the fight to the mat effortlessly throughout the entire five-round affair. A right hand from Jandiroba damaged the left eye of MIZUKI early in the fight and it swelled badly. Jandiroba was methodical with her top pressure, smothering MIZUKI from generating offense or returning to her feet. The best chance for MIZUKI came in round four, as she scored with a beautiful hip toss, but Jandiroba quickly reversed the position and continued her dominance. When the scorecards were revealed, it was the Brazilian who left with the win and the belt.

Former title challenger DeAnna Bennett returned to the promotion and snapped the winning streak of Mexico’s Karina Rodríguez. Bennett surprised the Mexican fighter with a steady forward advance, landing punches and initiating the clinch. Bennett scored with a big takedown, but Rodríguez quickly bounced back to her feet. The second round was more of the same as Bennett’s frequent level changes and feints prevented Rodríguez from putting together her boxing combinations. Rodríguez increased her output in the final round, but Bennett’s wrestling and clinch game was too much. The judges were split, but it was Bennett who left with the win.

Veteran Milana Dudieva gave Christina Marks a rude welcome to the Invicta cage, earning a second-round TKO victory. The flyweights spent the first round in a feeling-out process, trading single strikes and gauging range. It was more of the same in round two, but late in the frame, Dudieva delivered a massive right hand that sent Marks crashing to the ground. Dudieva followed with a series of right hands to finish the fight.

Pearl Gonzalez outworked Kali Robbins in a three-round war to introduce herself to the strawweight division. The previously undefeated Robbins waded through the strikes of Gonzalez to impose her grappling attack in the opening round. Gonzalez was able to defend from her back and reverse position multiple times. As the fight progressed, Robbins began to give Gonzalez more openings for scrambles and Gonzalez capitalized. She spent the better part of the last two rounds in the top position, cruising to the decision win.

Finnish atomweight Minna Grusander impressed in her promotional debut, stopping her fellow newcomer Fernanda Barros by TKO. Barros was very aggressive to start, coming forward with looping punches and kicks. Grusander survived the onslaught and the pair traded guillotine attempts. In the second round, the Finn found her range on the feet, dropping Barros with a flurry midway through the round. She increased her output, pounding out the Brazilian along the cage to earn the TKO win.

Strawweight Kal Schwartz put on a wrestling clinic before violently finishing Kay Hansen in the second round. Schwartz controlled the clinch throughout the first round, scoring with short punches and knees. Hansen broke free for a moment, but was quickly slammed to the canvas. That was a precursor to what would come in round two as Schwartz opened a huge cut on Hansen’s face with an elbow before suplexing her to the ground. Schwartz sensed the finish was near and flurried hard to force the referee to intervene.

In a pairing of bantamweight newcomers, New Hampshire’s Kerri Kenneson edged Chelsea Chandler after three thrilling rounds. Chandler’s grappling arsenal was the story early in the fight as she repeatedly attacked Kenneson with choke attempts, but Kenneson turned the tide with a massive left hand to close the opening round. Chandler continued to attack the limbs of Kenneson, but she left herself exposed to ground and pound. Kenneson was forced to defend a deep triangle choke in the third round, but her offensive output was more than enough to secure the decision nod.

Jillian DeCoursey remained undefeated, handing Invicta newcomer Rebekah Levine her first defeat in their atomweight match-up. LeVine sought the takedown early in the fight, but quickly fell into the dangerous guard of DeCoursey. The BJJ brown belt attacked with numerous armbars from her back, forcing LeVine to defend. As the fight progressed, DeCoursey showcased her superior grappling game, frequently moving to mount and dropping punches. LeVine proved her toughness by making it to the final bell, but DeCoursey claimed the clear-cut decision victory.

Flyweights Tracy Cortez and Kaytlin Neil kicked off the action with a back-and-forth battle that went to the scorecards. Cortez was aggressive throughout, pressing forward and keeping Neil with her back to the fence. Neil was able to score with a hip toss in the middle stanza, but she struggled to maintain top position. The final frame was full of scrambles and submission attempts, but it was the relentless pressure of Cortez that was rewarded by the judges.

OFFICIAL RESULTS
Virna Jandiroba def. MIZUKI by split decision (49-46, 46-49, 49-46) – for strawweight title
DeAnna Bennett def. Karina Rodríguez by split decision (30-27, 27-30, 30-27)
Milana Dudieva def. Christina Marks by TKO (punches). Round 2, 3:57
Pearl Gonzalez def. Kali Robbins by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-26, 30-27)
Minna Grusander def. Fernanda Barros by TKO (punches). Round 2, 4:26
Kal Schwartz def. Kay Hansen by TKO (strikes). Round 2, 4:27
Kerri Kenneson def. Chelsea Chandler by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
Jillian DeCoursey def. Rebekah Levine by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
Tracy Cortez def. Kaytlin Neil by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

About Invicta FC:

Invicta Fighting Championships is a world championship, all-pro mixed martial arts (MMA) fight series dedicated to providing female athletes with a major platform to hone their skills on a consistent basis. Founded in 2012 by longtime MMA executive Shannon Knapp, Invicta is committed to pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA by promoting the best possible match-ups between female competitors and identifying and developing future superstars of the sport. Follow Invicta on Twitter (@InvictaFights), Facebook (Facebook.com/InvictaFights), and Instagram (@InvictaFC) for all the latest information.

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Invicta FC 27 Results: Kaufman Cruises Past Kianzad, Porto Chokes Morais

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Kansas City, Mo. — On Saturday, Jan. 13, Invicta Fighting Championships hosted Invicta FC 27: Kianzad vs. Kaufman from the Scottish Rite Temple in Kansas City, Mo. The event streamed live and exclusively on UFC Fight Pass beginning at 8 p.m. ET.

Sarah Kaufman’s return to the Invicta cage was a successful one as the former Strikeforce bantamweight champion and UFC veteran bested Pannie Kianzad by decision. Kaufman’s striking arsenal was on full display throughout the contest. She landed her right hand in the clinch throughout the bout, bloodying the nose of Kianzad early in the fight. Kianzad never backed down, firing spinning backfists and a variety of kicks. But Kaufman’s veteran savvy was too much, as she landed with more and more volume as the fight progressed. The Canadian swept the scorecards after three rounds.

Former flyweight title challenger Vanessa Porto continued her march back towards title contention, dispatching of her fellow Brazilian Mariana Morais in the first round. Porto landed heavy leg kicks as the fight begin, prompting Morais to shoot for a takedown. Porto scrambled to the back of Morais, who desperately tried to defend Porto’s submission attack. Porto sunk in a rear-naked choke late in the round, coercing the tap from Morais.

In a classic striker vs. grappler affair, it was the wrestler, Sharon Jacobson, that came out on top of Canada’s Ashley Nichols. Jacobson initiated the clinch to start the fight and aimed to take the fight to the mat. Nichols countered with heavy knees and punches, dropping Jacobson in the opening round. Jacobson secured a takedown and was able to recover. The relentless wrestling of Jacobson was the story of the rest of the fight, as she was able to put Nichols on her back repeatedly. The final five minutes was all Jacobson, who used the knee-on-belly technique to pepper Nichols with punches and elbows and capture the win.

Atomweight Ashley Cummins completed dominated promotional debutant Stephanie Alba over three rounds. Cummins was able to take the fight to the mat in every round, where she meticulously delivered ground and pound. The first round was filled with short elbow from the half guard, as Alba could not get off her back. Cummins sought an arm-triangle choke in the second stanza, but Alba defended well. In the final frame, Cummins sought the finish, scoring with combinations before yet another takedown. She dropped punches to the final bell, but had to settle for decision victory.

Guam’s Brogan Walker-Sanchez handed Cheri Muraski her first professional defeat after a grueling, three-round contest. Muraski’s intentions were clear from the opening bell as she closed the distance and looked to take Walker-Sanchez to the mat. Walker-Sanchez was able to score with elbows from the clinch and use her underhooks to stay standing. Muraski did find herself inside the full guard at one point, but was unable to pass to a dominant position. The pair jostled for position along the fence for the majority of the fight, but two of the three judges rewarded Walker-Sanchez the decision.

Felicia Spencer kept her undefeated record intact, besting debuting featherweight Akeela Al-Hameed by decision. The fight featured a contrast of styles as Al-Hameed employed a boxing attack against Spencer’s taekwondo base. The pair traded head kicks in the opening frame after a grueling stint in the clinch. Al-Hameed’s best moment came in the form of a standing guillotine choke attempt against the fence, but Spencer showcased great flexibility to land knees from the vicarious position. Spencer would gain top control late in the fight, sealing the win on all the judges’ scorecards.

Strawweight Mallory Martin gave Tiffany Masters a rude welcome to the Invicta FC cage, earning a second-round stoppage due to strikes. Martin pressed forward in the opening round, scoring with her left hook inside the pocket. Masters countered with volume, but Martin took her down and rained elbows from the top. It was more of the same in round two as Martin mounted Masters along the fence and dropped heavy shots. The onslaught led the referee to intervene and give Martin the victory.

Making her professional MMA debut, Muay Thai stylist Loma Lookboonmee put on a striking clinic, battering Mellissa Wang over three rounds. Wang immediately looked to take the fight to the mat, but Loma countered with knees and elbows in the clinch. The shots took their toll on Wang, who bled from her nose and left eye. The fight was paused twice by the referee after the Thai fighter landed knees while Wang was a downed fighter. Despite a point deduction, Loma swept the scorecards with the impressive performance.

In a match-up of strawweight newcomers, Helen Peralta needed less than a round to dispatch of Jade Ripley with strikes. Peralta used her kicks to find her range and began to land her right hand at will. After buckling the knees of Ripley in the clinch, Peralta delivered a series of punches along the fence that forced the referee to halt the contest.

OFFICIAL RESULTS
Sarah Kaufman def. Pannie Kianzad by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
Vanessa Porto def. Mariana Morais by submission (rear-naked choke). Round 1, 4:19
Sharon Jacobson def. Ashley Nichols by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)
Ashley Cummins def. Stephanie Alba by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
Brogan Walker-Sanchez def. Cheri Muraski by split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
Felicia Spencer def. Akeela Al-Hameed by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
Mallory Martin def. Tiffany Masters by TKO (strikes). Round 2, 3:36
Loma Lookboonmee def. Mellissa Wang by unanimous decision (29-27, 29-27, 29-26)
Helen Peralta def. Jade Ripley by TKO (punches). Round 1, 2:22

About Invicta FC:

Invicta Fighting Championships is a world championship, all-pro mixed martial arts (MMA) fight series dedicated to providing female athletes with a major platform to hone their skills on a consistent basis. Founded in 2012 by longtime MMA executive Shannon Knapp, Invicta is committed to pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA by promoting the best possible match-ups between female competitors and identifying and developing future superstars of the sport. Follow Invicta on Twitter (@InvictaFights), Facebook (Facebook.com/InvictaFights), and Instagram (@InvictaFC) for all the latest information.

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Invicta FC 26 Results: Maia Outlasts Niedźwiedź, Dern Submits Medeiros

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Kansas City, Mo. — On Friday, Dec. 8, Invicta Fighting Championships hosted Invicta FC 26: Maia vs. Niedźwiedź from the Scottish Rite Temple in Kansas City, Mo. The event streamed live and exclusively on UFC Fight Pass beginning at 8 p.m. ET.

Jennifer Maia is still the Invicta flyweight champion after a five-round war with Poland’s Aga Niedźwiedź. The Brazilian rocked Niedźwiedź early with a right hand that caused the right cheek of the challenger to swell. Niedźwiedź was able to get the fight to the canvas late in the opening round, but Maia was active from her back. It was Niedźwiedź who did the damage in round two, rocking Maia with punches. The champion survived and implemented her strong clinch game. Maia relentlessly pinned Niedźwiedź to the fence and weighed on her. The grueling action took its toll on Niedźwiedź, as Maia turned up her output in the championship rounds. Both fighters bled from their noses in the final round, but Maia’s volume was the difference as all three judges rewarded her efforts.

Mackenzie Dern stayed undefeated in her Invicta debut, submitting former strawweight title challenger Kaline Medeiros in the third round. Dern found success with her overhand right throughout the fight, rocking Medeiros on several occasions. A mouse formed under the left eye of Medeiros from the heavy shots. The fight found the ground in round two and Dern looked for a toe hold before passing to mount and scoring with ground and pound. Most of the third stanza took place on the feet, but Dern went for the finish in the bout’s final minute. She earned a trip takedown, passed to mount and then earned a tap from an armbar with just seconds remaining in the fight.

A pair of Brazilians delivered one of the bloodiest fights in Invicta history as Janaisa Morandin and Kinberly Novaes went to war for three rounds. The two immediately went to the clinch and began delivering elbows and knees. When they did separate, it was Morandin who scored with big punches. The second round saw Morandin severely damage the nose of Novaes and blood began to pour all over both fighters. The assault by Morandin continued throughout the remainder of the fight as she pressed forward and battered Novaes. Novaes survived to the final horn, but Morandin swept the scorecards.

Two-time flyweight title challenger Vanessa Porto survived an early storm from UFC veteran Milana Dudieva to earn a third-round TKO victory. Porto’s kicking arsenal was on display in the opening stanza, until Dudieva caught her with a punch behind the ear. Porto looked for a takedown, but Dudieva was able to secure the scarf-hold position and eventually took her back. She rained punches, but Porto survived and moved to top position. Round two featured more of Porto’s stand-up attack, as she chewed up the lead leg of Dudieva with kicks. In the final frame, Porto shifted her strikes to the body of Dudieva, backing her against the fence. An onslaught of punches and kicks to the midsection sent Dudieva to the canvas, handing Porto the TKO win.

Brazil’s Virna Jandiroba remained undefeated and sent a message to the rest of the strawweight division, submitting Amy Montenegro inside the first round. Jandiroba peppered Montenegro with body kicks before changing levels and securing a takedown. She smoothly transitioned from side control to mount before locking up the arm of Montenegro and earning the victory.

Former atomweight title challenger Amber Brown got back in the win column with a lightning-fast submission win over Tessa Simpson. Brown looked to get the fight to the ground right off the bat, but Simpson was able to scramble to top position. Brown slapped on an armbar from her back, forcing Simpson to defend and eventually tap less than a minute into the fight.

In a battle of flyweight striking stalwarts, Mexico’s Karina Rodríguez used crisp boxing and volume to edge out Christine Ferea on the scorecards. Ferea’s kicking game was the story early in the fight, but Rodríguez used the clinch to score knees and settle into range. Rodríguez fired combination after combination, but Ferea marched forward throughout the three-round affair. The pair traded until the final bell, but it was Rodríguez who had her hand raised.

Kicking off the night, strawweight Kay Hansen was successful in her professional debut, submitting fellow newcomer Emilee Prince by armbar. Hansen initiated the clinch and took the fight to the mat. She passed to mount, attacked the left arm of Prince and coerced the tap.

OFFICIAL RESULTS
Jennifer Maia def. Aga Niedźwiedź by unanimous decision (49-46 x3) – for flyweight title
Mackenzie Dern def. Kaline Medeiros by submission (armbar). Round 3, 4:45
Janaisa Morandin def. Kinberly Novaes by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
Vanessa Porto def. Milana Dudieva by TKO (strikes). Round 3, 3:02
Virna Jandiroba def. Amy Montenegro by submission (armbar). Round 1, 2:50
Amber Brown def. Tessa Simpson by submission (armbar). Round 1, 0:50
Karina Rodríguez def. Christine Ferea by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)
Kay Hansen def. Emilee Prince by submission (armbar). Round 1, 1:23

About Invicta FC:

Invicta Fighting Championships is a world championship, all-pro mixed martial arts (MMA) fight series dedicated to providing female athletes with a major platform to hone their skills on a consistent basis. Founded in 2012 by longtime MMA executive Shannon Knapp, Invicta is committed to pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA by promoting the best possible match-ups between female competitors and identifying and developing future superstars of the sport. Follow Invicta on Twitter (@InvictaFights), Facebook (Facebook.com/InvictaFights), and Instagram (@InvictaFC) for all the latest information.

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Invicta FC 25 Results: Kunitskaya Too Much For Pa’aluhi, Souza Bests Morandin

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Lemoore, Calif. — On Thursday, Aug. 31, Invicta Fighting Championships hosted Invicta FC 25: Pa’aluhi vs. Kunitskaya from the Tachi Palace Hotel and Casino in Lemoore, Calif. The event streamed live and exclusively on UFC Fight Pass beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Russia’s Yana Kunitskaya captured Invicta gold, dominating fellow bantamweight Raquel Pa’aluhi over the course of five rounds. Kunitskaya utilized a strong clinch game in the opening rounds, hanging on Pa’aluhi along the fence. Pa’aluhi was able to score with a head-and-arm throw, but was unable to lock up a submission from top position. Kunitskaya continued her dominance in the clinch and at distance, delivering numerous front kicks to maintain range. Pa’aluhi’s nose bled from the constant flow of kicks and knees from the Russian. Late in the fight, Pa’aluhi was desperate to get the fight to the ground, but Kunitskaya showcased strong takedown defense to seal the victory. Kunitskaya swept the scorecards, earning the belt.

The night’s co-main event saw Brazilians Livia Renata Souza and Janaisa Morandin do battle for three rounds. Morandin landed heavy right hands to open the contest, but Souza earned takedowns and imposed her grappling prowess. Morandin absorbed heavy shots from her back, but remained active. In round two, it was Morandin who locked up a triangle choke attempt from her back, but Souza was able to wait it out to the bell. Morandin continued her onslaught with punches in the final frame, but Souza’s ground game was too much. Souza handed Morandin her first loss with the decision verdict.

Germany’s Katharina Lehner impressed in her promotional debut, pounding out Alexa Conners inside the first round. Lehner came forward relentlessly, forcing Conners to keep her back against the fence. Conners looked to counter, but was overwhelmed by Lehner’s pace. Lehner’s output took its toll as the round progressed, as Conners dropped to the canvas and the referee stopped the contest.

Kali Robbins kept her undefeated record intact, ruining the return of Sharon Jacobson in under a minute. Jacobson landed a barrage of strikes to open the bout, wobbling Robbins. A huge takedown followed from Jacobson, but Robbins locked onto an arm and Jacobson was forced to submit.

Atomweights Shino VanHoose and Alyse Anderson engaged in a back-and-forth match-up with VanHoose edging out the decision win. VanHoose used her jab and counter left hook to land on the feet, prompting Anderson to look for takedowns. Anderson frequently took the fight to the ground, but VanHoose was able to tie her up and force the referee to stand up the fight. The final frame saw VanHoose score with strikes and earn the mount as Anderson failed on a takedown. VanHoose’s effort was enough to convince two of the judges to give her the decision win.

Newcomer Sarah Kleczka outlasted Amberlynn Orr to earn a split decision in a grueling bantamweight affair. Kleczka was the aggressor, but Orr was able to close the distance and score from the clinch. Orr forced Kleczka to defend a guillotine attempt from the mount, but Kleczka countered with an armbar after recovering her guard. A majority of the fight was spent in the clinch, with Kleczka controlling the action and landing short knees. The judges were split, but Kleczka earned her first professional win.

Yaya Rincón remained undefeated, stopping opponent Courtney King in the second round. Rincón earned a quick takedown to start the fight, but King worked back to her feet. It would not last, as Rincón took the fight to the ground once more, but King reversed and took her back. Rincón fought off the submission attempts to see round two. The momentum swung heavily in her favor as she put King on her back and mounted her. A steady stream of strikes forced the referee to intervene and halt the bout.

Flyweight Cheri Muraski spoiled the pro debut of opponent Tracy Cortez, submitting her by guillotine choke. Cortez was aggressive early, pressing the action and bloodying the face of Muraski. Cortez looked to bring the fight to the ground repeatedly, but couldn’t get a takedown. Muraski took advantage, attacking the neck of Cortez and coercing the tap in round two.

Kicking off the night, atomweight Jillian DeCoursey edged out fellow newcomer Ashley Medina by split decision. Medina marched forward early, but DeCoursey scored with counter right hands. The pair exchanged through two rounds before DeCoursey took the fight to the ground in the final frame. She took Medina’s back and threatened with a choke, but ultimately settled for the decision victory.

OFFICIAL RESULTS
Yana Kunitskaya def. Raquel Pa’aluhi by unanimous decision (50-45 x3) – for vacant bantamweight title
Livia Renata Souza def. Janaisa Morandin by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)
Katharina Lehner def. Alexa Conners by TKO (punches). Round 1, 4:21
Kali Robbins def. Sharon Jacobson by submission (armbar). Round 1, 0:42
Shino VanHoose def. Alyse Anderson by split decision (28-29, 30-27, 29-28)
Sarah Kleczka def. Amberlynn Orr by split decision (28-29, 29-28, 29-28)
Yaya Rincón def. Courtney King by TKO (strikes). Round 2, 3:41
Cheri Muraski def. Tracy Cortez by submission (guillotine choke). Round 2, 2:42
Jillian DeCoursey def. Ashley Medina by split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

About Invicta FC:

Invicta Fighting Championships is a world championship, all-pro mixed martial arts (MMA) fight series dedicated to providing female athletes with a major platform to hone their skills on a consistent basis. Founded in 2012 by longtime MMA executive Shannon Knapp, Invicta is committed to pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA by promoting the best possible match-ups between female competitors and identifying and developing future superstars of the sport. Follow Invicta on Twitter (@InvictaFights), Facebook (Facebook.com/InvictaFights), and Instagram (@InvictaFC) for all the latest information.

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Invicta FC 24 Results: Borella Tops Dudieva, Frey Bests Cummins

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Kansas City, Mo. — On Saturday, July 15, Invicta Fighting Championships hosted Invicta FC 24: Dudieva vs. Borella from the historic Scottish Rite Temple. The event streamed live and exclusively on UFC Fight Pass beginning at 8 p.m. ET.

The night’s main event featured a closely contested flyweight between Italy’s Mara Romero Borella and UFC veteran Milana Dudieva. Borella flurried forward to open the bout, allowing Dudieva to score with a judo throw. Borella looked for a leg lock, which allowed her to return to the feet. The pair traded punches before Borella looked for a takedown. Dudieva countered with a guillotine attempt to close the round. In the second round, Borella used her striking and length before putting Dudieva on her back. She scored with ground and pound from the top position along the fence. It was more of the same in round three, but Dudieva sought an armbar from her back. Borella defended and passed to mount. Dudieva powered to the top position in the fight’s waning moments, but landed in a triangle attempt from the Italian. The Russian would survive to the final bell, but it was Borella who walked away with the split decision win.

Former atomweight title challenger Jinh Yu Frey used her wrestling and top control to edge Ashley Cummins by decision. Frey capitalized on the forward pressure of Cummins, taking the fight to the mat. Cummins was active on her back, threatening with armbars. Frey opted to return to the feet in the first round, but as the fight progressed, she stayed in the guard of Cummins. That resulted in repeated armbar attempts from Cummins, which Frey was forced to defend. Every time Frey escaped, Cummins attacked with another. The final stanza was a showcase of the strength of Frey, who was able to keep Cummins on her back for the majority of the round and earn the victory on the judges’ scorecards.

Veteran Pam Sorenson gave featherweight newcomer Helena Kolesnyk a rude welcome to the Invicta cage, scoring a first-round submission victory. Kolesnyk threw kicks early, but Sorenson timed a takedown attempt and tripped her to the canvas. She methodically passed to side control and then the mount. Sorenson dropped heavy right hands from mount. She was patient from the top, passing to S-mount and setting up an armbar. Sorenson cranked on the arm and Kolesnyk was forced to submit.

The flyweight match-up between newcomers Karina Rodríguez and Bárbara Acioly was fast and violent. Mexico’s Rodríguez rocked Brazil’s Acioly early with a right hand and quickly looked for the finish. She chased Acioly to the mat and pounded away with strikes. Acioly did her best to survive and nearly worked back to her feet, but Rodríguez was relentless with her aggression. A swarm of hammerfists from Rodríguez was too much for referee Greg Franklin, who stepped in and saved Acioly from further damage.

Missouri’s Miranda Maverick remained unbeaten, topping promotional newcomer Gabby Romero on the scorecards. Maverick scored with left hands in the first frame. Romero answered with a head-and-arm throw attempt, but ended up on her back. She attacked with a leg lock attempt that allowed her to get on top of Maverick. Maverick was able to escape, but fell into a deep armbar attempt to close the round. In round two, a series of uppercuts from Maverick were the most significant strikes of the bout. The pair’s chess match on the mat later resumed as Maverick delivered heavy shots, while Romero searched for submissions. Maverick attacked the body in the final frame, slowing Romero’s output. A late armbar attempt from Maverick was reversed by Romero and Maverick was once again forced to ride out the round to the bell. When it was all said and done, it was Maverick who was victorious.

Strawweights Sunna Rannveig Davíðsdóttir and Kelly D’Angelo engaged in a hard-fought battle over the course of three rounds, with Iceland’s Davíðsdóttir earning the decision victory. The pair came out firing, connecting with straight punches. Davíðsdóttir looked to bring the fight to the canvas, but D’Angelo responded with heavy punches. The nose of Davíðsdóttir poured blood as the opening stanza came to a close. The second and third rounds were a different story as Davíðsdóttir utilized her takedowns to neutralize D’Angelo’s offense. The Icelandic fighter was able to mount D’Angelo and rain heavy punches and elbows. The fight went the distance with Davíðsdóttir sweeping the scorecards.

The night kicked off with a dominant performance from undefeated featherweight Felicia Spencer. Spencer opened with a series of body kicks to opponent Amy Coleman, but was briefly taken down. She worked back to her feet and then put Coleman on her back. She wasn’t able to keep Coleman down for long, but later in the round, she scored with a big lift along the fence. Spencer quickly took Coleman’s back with both hooks. Once there, she worked for a rear-naked choke and coerced the tap from Coleman.

OFFICIAL RESULTS
Mara Romero Borella def. Milana Dudieva by split decision (30-27, 28-29, 29-28)
Jinh Yu Frey def. Ashley Cummins by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
Pam Sorenson def. Helena Kolesnyk by submission (armbar). Round 1, 3:12
Karina Rodríguez def. Bárbara Acioly by TKO (strikes). Round 1, 2:14
Miranda Maverick def. Gabby Romero by unanimous decision (30-26, 29-28, 30-27)
Sunna Rannveig Davíðsdóttir def. Kelly D’Angelo by unanimous decision (30-26, 30-27, 30-27)
Felicia Spencer def. Amy Coleman by submission (rear-naked choke). Round 1, 3:17

About Invicta FC:

Invicta Fighting Championships is a world championship, all-pro mixed martial arts (MMA) fight series dedicated to providing female athletes with a major platform to hone their skills on a consistent basis. Founded in 2012 by longtime MMA executive Shannon Knapp, Invicta is committed to pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA by promoting the best possible match-ups between female competitors and identifying and developing future superstars of the sport. Follow Invicta on Twitter (@InvictaFights), Facebook (Facebook.com/InvictaFights), and Instagram (@InvictaFC) for all the latest information.