The mysterious “Phoenix Jones” — or Ben Fodor, as he’s known by day — has signed a deal to compete in the World Series of Fighting. MMA Junkie/USA Today first reported the news on Wednesday. WSOF Vice President/matchmaker Ali Abdel-Aziz later confirmed the signing of the street avenger via his Twitter feed.
Though Fodor has been competing as an amateur and pro mixed martial artist for nine years, his superhero alter-ego Phoenix Jones was profiled during a segment on ESPN‘s Sportscenter last week. For the last few years, Jones has been part of a band of crime-fighters who patrol the streets of Seattle at night. While surveilling the city, he wears a black and gold superhero costume, complete with mask, stab plates, and a bullet-proof vest, armed with cans of pepper spray. The initiative to become a real-life superhero has been polarizing for many in the Emerald City. Nevertheless, after the segment aired on SC Featured, Phoenix Jones’ — and by extension, Ben Fodor’s — stock skyrocketed.
On Tuesday, the 26-year old Fodor Tweeted out a picture of him holding several contracts, in which he wrote, “I literally have contracts from every fight organization I can think of in my hands right now.”
According to WSOF officials, Fodor will make his promotional debut on April 10 at the Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Connenticut. Though opponent has been named yet, officials say he will be on the televised main card.
Ben Fodor is the brother of current ONE Championship fighter and longtime veteran, Caros Fodor. As an amateur, Ben Fodor posted a record of 15-2, while as a pro he’s gone 5-0-1. His last fight occurred at Super Fight League 37 against Jason Novelli, whom he submitted via third-round rear-naked choke.