An electrifying Oktagon title fight is lined up to take place in Karlovy Vary in the spring. The bantamweight division will crown a new champion at OKTAGON 70, as the leading European promotion heads to the Czech city.
On Saturday, April 26, the highly anticipated showdown between the controversial ex-UFC fighter Igor Severino (9-1) and former Cage Warriors champion Jack Cartwright (12-2) will be a key highlight of what promises to be an action-packed event.
Severino made waves globally when he was released from the UFC last year for biting his opponent Andre Lima during their bout at the UFC Apex. The 21-year-old, who earned the nickname ‘Hannibal Lecter’ after the incident, was given a second chance by OKTAGON MMA.
He made his debut against former 135 lb champion Jonas Mågård, where he showcased his elite skill set by securing a decision win in an exciting contest. Following his victory, the Brazilian boldly called for a title shot, vowing to dominate anyone in his path. On April 26, he has the opportunity to back up that promise and claim the title.
Cartwright made a strong impression in his OKTAGON MMA debut in November 2023, submitting Júnior Assis in under two minutes. That earned the 30-year-old a main event spot in Newcastle against Jonas Mågård, but the Englishman fell short, losing by decision. He bounced back in September, impressively defeating Mate Sanikidze, once considered one of Europe’s top prospects. With 9 stoppages in his 12 professional victories, Cartwright is one of the most dangerous bantamweights operating outside of the UFC today.
The event in Karlovy Vary will also feature the conclusion of the €1 million Tipsport Gamechanger middleweight tournament opening round. Welterweight champion Ion Surdu moves up to middleweight to face new addition Krzysztof Jotko, while knockout specialist Vlasto Čepo takes on Austria’s Erhan Kartal in the 16-man field.
