17-07-2025
Lancashire's Cartwright eyes Oktagon MMA title belt
Bolton fighter, Jack Cartwright, will fight for the vacant OKTAGON MMA bantamweight title on August 9 against former UFC fighter, Igor Severino, in Prague.
The pair had been scheduled to meet in April but an injury to the Lancastrian forced a postponement.
Now the much-anticipated clash has a new date on the bill at OKTAGON 74 at the open-air venue in Štvanice.
The loaded card is set to be one of the best European MMA events of the year, hosting a plethora of elite level talent.
Severino drew global attention last year after being released from the UFC for biting his opponent during a match.
The 21-year-old, who later embraced the nickname 'Hannibal Lecter,' was given a fresh start by OKTAGON and matched up against former bantamweight champion, Jonas Mågård, for his debut in the promotion.
Severino showcased his impressive skills by defeating 'Shark' via decision in a thrilling contest.
The Brazilian demanded a title shot in his post-fight interview, declaring he would crush anyone who stood in his path.
This summer, he'll have the opportunity to back up that bold claim and show he's the top athlete in the division.
But former Cage Warriors champion, Cartwright, made a strong impression in his OKTAGON debut in November 2023, submitting Júnior Assis just over two minutes into their match-up and he will want to shine again.
The 31-year-old won in style last time out last September, securing a victory over Mate Sanikidze.
With chances to capture gold on Europe's premier stage being rare, Cartwright is fully prepared to seize the moment by any means necessary.
The Harwood star said: 'The delay to the original fight hasn't altered my approach at all.
'I've had this fight in mind the entire time and have been focused on doing everything possible to ensure I come away with an impressive victory and a world title.'
