Benibe, Transmonte fight for URCC crown

MANILA, Philippines - The Universal Reality Combat Championship (URCC) returns to the mixed martial arts scene tomorrow with nine fights oin tap in the URCC 25 Colt 45 Takeover at the MOA Arena in Pasay City.

Andrew Benibe and Rey Transmonte headline the explosive fightcard as they clash for the vacant bantamweight title highlighting URCC’s first tournament in the year.

“It’s going to be a brawl right from the opening match,” said URCC president Alvin Aguilar in yesterday’s PSA Forum at Shakey’s Malate. “Fans will have a great night because we have two title fights and a host of exciting cards.”

While it was Transmonte’s hand that was raised at the end of their action-packed duel, Benibe likewise earned the respect of the fight fans for his never-say-die stand.

Also worth watching in the event sponsored by Solar Sports, GMA 7, Tribal Gear, Chevrolet Makati, Hyundai Parañaque West, Shacman Motors, Inc and BYD Phils. are two light heavyweight fights featuring Caloy Baduria against Mark Palomar and Fil-Swiss Chris Hofmann against Nickson Kola of Papua New Guinea.

Kola of Hyper MAA is also a member of the famous Philippine Volcanoes team, making him the favorite among female MMA fans. All his wins were via KOs – thanks to his superior wrestling skills and techniques.

Baduria will be back from a two-year layoff. He last fought in URCC 22: Dekada two years ago when he knocked out Sugar Ray Estrone in the first round.

Known as the knockout king of the URCC with his powerful strikes, his mettle would be tested by the up-and-coming Mark Palomar.

Palomar will be making his debut fight on the pro ranks but has already made a name for himself in the amateur circuit with his impressive stand-up skills.

Other matches pit Carlo Laurel vs Ric Empil (flyweight), Arnel Lomibao vs Alwin Solinap (bantamweight), Joseph Mercado vs Drex Zamboanga (bantamweight), Ryan Jakiri vs Hideo Morikawa (flyweight) and Alvin Ramirez vs Jessie Paul del Valle.

Tickets are now available at smticket.com. First fight starts at 8 p.m.