The 14-bout fight card for Invicta Fighting Championships‘ next event, Invicta FC 5, has been finalized, sources close to the promotion confirmed to MMAFighting.com.
A pair of championship bouts headline the nine-fight main card, as reigning atomweight titleholder Jessica Penne (10-1) looks to defend her title against Michelle “The Karate Hottie” Waterson (10-3), while submission specialist Vanessa Porto (15-5) and streaking prospect Barb Honchak (7-2) square off for the promotion’s inaugural flyweight strap.
“We are excited about entering a new chapter in Invicta FC history that consists of a partnership with one of the finest and most impressive entertainment venues in the country as well as our first world championship doubleheader card that is loaded with world-class women’s fight talent,” said Invicta FC President Shannon Knapp.
Additionally, former Bellator women’s champion Zoila Frausto Gurgel (12-2) is expected to make her promotional debut against Brazilian grappler Jennifer Maia (6-2), while former Strikeforce champion Sarah Kaufman (15-2) is slated to meet three-time Invicta FC veteran Leslie Smith (5-2-1).
Invicta FC 5 takes place April 5, 2013, at the Ameristar Casino Hotel in Kansas City, MO. Tickets are expected to go on sale soon. The complete Invicta FC 5 fight card can be found below.
Main Card:
Atomweight Championship: Jessica Penne vs. Michelle Waterson
Flyweight Championship: Barb Honchak vs. Vanessa Porto
Zoila Frausto Gurgel vs. Jennifer Maia
Sarah Kaufman vs. Leslie Smith
Amanda Nunes vs. Kaitlin Young
Julia Budd vs. Ediane Gomes
Nicdali Rivera-Calanoc vs. Cassie Rodish
Bec Hyatt vs. Jasminka Cive
Katja Kankaanpaa vs. Juliana Carnerio Lima
Preliminary Card:
Jessamyn Duke vs. Miriam Nakamoto
Alex Chambers vs. Jodie Esquibel
Rose Namajunas vs. Kathina Catron
Mollie Estes vs. Veronica Rothenhausler
Lauren Barefoot vs. River Jones