By Jake Smith
Two IMMAF standouts will look to secure a contract with Professional Fighters League when they feature on week three of the challenger series.
With impressive victories, Michelle Montague or Julia Dorny could have the opportunity to secure either a developmental deal or move straight to the main roster of the promotion for a chance to compete in the PFL Finals. However, only one fighter each week will earn a contract.
Dorny frequented IMMAF tournaments throughout her amateur tenure, amassing seven tournament appearances over three years; and an abundance of medals to show for it. The medals proved Dorny’s continual development as she gradually worked her way up the podium earning, 2015 World and European Bronze, 2016 World and European Silver and a 2017 World Bronze.
A flawless 2018 saw the German native collect two gold medals, at the World and European Championships in what would prove to be her last year competing on the IMMAF stage.
Speaking ahead of her bout, Dorny’s pride in representing her nation of Germany has monumental importance to her. She said:
“I am very happy to be part of the PFL Challenger Series and to represent Germany. So far, no German woman has participated in this tournament. I am proud to be making history and am preparing and doing everything I can to give myself and my country due to recognition.”
Montague has been a regular feature in IMMAF tournaments of recent years. Having always medalled at every tournament she competed in. She enters the competition fresh off winning a bronze medal in her final IMMAF championships last month (January) at the 2021 World Championships.
After an illustrious amateur career, the Challenger Series will mark Montague’s highly anticipated move to the professional game. The New Zealand native knows that securing a deal with one of the major global promotions would be the perfect start to life as a pro. She said:
“I’m very excited to fight on the PFL challenger series. I’ve watched the PFL for a couple of seasons now and hugely admire the format and way they run their series.”
“Whether it is the developmental or regular contract – to come out with either is going to be a game-changer. To be able to finally put all my energy into the sport, instead of splitting the time between travel to/from and work and training – what a massive difference this would make to me as a fighter going forward.”
In her challenger series bout, she will face Olivia Parker, who will be coming into the series on the back of a loss to Bellator title contender Cat Zingano. Never one to shy away from a challenge, ‘The Wild One’ is keen to prove any doubters wrong and deliver a top-class performance on March 4th.
