A Peak into the Cage
Over the past few decades, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has quickly risen in popularity, drawing audiences from diverse backgrounds and cultures worldwide with its combination of striking and grappling techniques. Blending disciplines such as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, wrestling, and boxing, MMA has created a sporting phenomenon that has demolished traditional boundaries.
As fighters showcase their skills in the cage, the appeal of MMA continues to grow, making a place for itself in Texarkana through Peak Fighting Championship (PFC), a locally owned and managed MMA promotion. As PFC solidifies its reputation in the world of MMA, it continues to attract not only dedicated local fans, but is becoming a force to be reckoned with on an ever-growing national stage.
We sat down with Wes Humphrey, PFC’s Director of Business Development, to find out more.
What is PFC?
Peak Fighting, headquartered in Texarkana, Texas, is a prominent mixed martial arts (MMA) promotion. Our mission is to discover emerging talent in the world of combat sports and pair them with opponents possessing comparable skill levels, both in the amateur and professional divisions. Established in 2018 by Texarkana local Jonny Ross, Peak Fighting has swiftly ascended to become a highly regarded and esteemed MMA promotion. With approximately twelve annual events, we are making big steps forward in our pursuit of greater recognition for our fighters within the MMA industry.
How did Peak Fighting get its start?
Peak Fighting was born out of Ross’ love for the sport and his recognition of the necessity for an MMA promotion that prioritizes equal opportunities and fair treatment for fighters and athletes. This commitment has attracted top-tier fighters who seek to compete on a level playing field, resulting in higher-quality fights and an elevated standard of fairness and safety among the athletes competing under the PFC banner.
Who are the fighters? Where do they come from, and how are they trained?
Fighters under contract with PFC are discovered and secured by maintaining positive relationships within the fight community and professional MMA gyms local to the event location. Each fighter works tirelessly with his or her own coach for months to become fight ready, studying techniques and training in agility, flexibility, and strength. By fight night, focused fighters step into the cage ready and eager to face their opponent.
Who are your most promising and most successful fighters? Who should we be watching in 2024?
From our roster of fighters, many are steadily making their mark on the national stage. Leading the charge are standout individuals such as Colton Loud (5-0-0), Xavier Franklin (4-0-0), Natalya Speece (2-3-0), Bailey King (2-0-0), and Coby Bradford (2-0-0). Peak Fighting has also attracted fighters with UFC experience, including Braxton Smith (4-1-0), Diego Brandao (27-21-0), and Rafael Alves (13-12-0). Additionally, Malik Lewis (6-2-0) has received two invitations to the Contender Series, showcasing the depth of talent nurtured within our organization.
Who are the Texarkana local fighters? How did they stand out in 2023?
Ian Hibbs and Jacoryn Larry, two Texarkana natives, have left their indelible marks within the PFC cage. Larry boasts an impressive record of five wins and two losses across seven PFC fights, steadfastly pursuing his dream of becoming a professional fighter. This journey took significant strides forward in 2023. On the other hand, Hibbs, at the tender age of 17, etched his name into PFC history with only one appearance in the cage. Initially slated to compete at PFC-Summit Series 1, Hibbs faced an unexpected turn of events when his opponent withdrew, leaving him without a fight, much like Igor Vladimirivich, a 31-year-old fighter with a 3-3 record. In a bold move, Hibbs accepted a last-minute bout against Vladimirivich, who not only possessed more experience but also competed in a higher weight class. Against the odds, Hibbs showcased exceptional MMA skills that led to an unexpected victory, cementing his reputation as a promising young talent in the sport.
Tell us about this year’s scheduled events.
Our schedule for 2024 promises to be nothing short of thrilling! We kicked off the year in Shawnee, Oklahoma, on January 6, followed by our second-ever Amarillo show for PFC 34 in West Texas on March 16. PFC 35 is set for April 20th in Beaumont, Texas, and will be returning to Ford Park. These events are shaping up to be among the most exciting and memorable in Peak Fighting’s history.
How do people watch if they are unable to travel to events?
The Peak Fighting app is available through four major platforms: Apple, Amazon, Roku, and Google Play. For those unable to attend our events in person, this app allows you to enjoy our fights live or to subscribe to watch the day after scheduled events. Simply download the app or go to members.peakfighting.com to subscribe to all our future content, knockouts, submissions, take downs, decisions, and all-out brawls! Use code TXKPFC to get your first month free.
Jacoryon Larry
DOB
12/1/97
Height
6’4”
Fighting Weight
185 pounds
Weight Class
Middleweight
Record
5-2
Gym
Texarkana Combat Sports
Trainer
Craig Campbell
Walkout Song
“Here I Go” by Mystikal
Ian Hibbs
DOB
4/21/06
Height
5’7”
Fighting Weight
135
Weight Class
Bantamweight
Record
1-0
Gym
Texarkana Combat Sports
Trainer
Craig Campbell
Walkout Song
“Oh God” by Kanye West
