A middleweight bout between submission specialist has been added to the CES MMA 31 card on October 30 in Rhode Island as Eric Spicely will meet Aaron Johnson on the main card.
The fight booking was announced by CES MMA on Friday.
CES MMA 31 will come from the Twin River Casino in Lincoln, Rhode Island and will feature Chip Moraza-Pollard and Gil de Freitas meeting for the vacant welterweight title.
“This is a matchup that we have been anxious to make happen,” stated CES MMA matchmaker Pat Sullivan. “We have witnessed firsthand Eric’s growth in the CES MMA cage. He is destined to be competing in the UFC. But Tex is a dangerous fighter with an impressive record who is standing in his way. This is one of the biggest matches of both fighters’ careers. I can’t wait to see what gives on Fight Night!”
Spicely (7-0) has won his last six fights by stoppage in the first round and four of those have come by submission. His most recent win came in June as he submitted Harley Beekman at CES MMA 29.
“My opponent happens to be a guy who’s beaten two of my teammates,” said Spicely, “so I’m even more motivated. I’ve gotta get that gym cred back.”
Johnson (13-9, 1NC) has gone 4-2 in his last six fights and twelve of his thirteen wins have come by submission. His last fight came in June of last year as he defeated Greg Rebello by guillotine choke submission.
“He’s probably taking this to the ground, where he’s most comfortable and that’s where I’m most comfortable too,” Johnson said. “Or he might try to keep it standing until I punch him in the face — then he’s going to try to take me to the ground, which plays right into my strengths.”
The current CES MMA 31 fight card is below.
Chip Moraza-Pollard (10-8) vs. Gil de Freitas (17-5)
Eric Spicely (7-0) vs. Aaron Johnson (13-9, 1NC)