Ian ‘Badman’ Martell has stepped in to face Marc Navarro at UCMMA 35, competing for the vacant UK-1 title on Aug 3.
With two openings on the card, Martell also had the opportunity to face fellow 205-pounder Nick Champman, under MMA rules, following the injury withdrawal of ‘Big’ Ben Smith, who sustained ligament damage in his arm.
With Adam Hart having withdrawn due to a broken rib, UCMMA promoter Dave O’Donnell explained that Martell was eagerly prepared to step in for any potential drop-outs.
“As a promoter it’s hard to lose top guys,” he said, “but this time my hat goes off to both of these athletes, but Martell has been on the phone daily waiting for a pull out, two came at once but he can only take the one fight, I can’t wait for UCMMA 35, its going to be a Summer sizzler.”
Chapman explained: “I would do anything I can to help Dave and UCMMA, they never let the fans or fighters down and I will do the same for them. I am gutted that Martell has taken the chance for the K1 title it could have been me and him But I have agreed with Dave to fight Martell on October 5th, I just hope he wins that K1 belt because then it’s more of a challenge and let’s hope Linton Vassell will face the winner, I can’t wait.”
Martell most recently extended his MMA record to 9-1 with a first round KO knee strike at Sparta MMA in Brazil, having spent a number of months training and competing in the South American MMA hotbed. However, it will be all stand-up striking on on Aug 3, as the light-heavyweight UK-1 title is decided.
UCMMA 35 takes place on Saturday August 3rd, from the Troxy, 490 Commercial Rd, London.
