By Caoilte de Barra
Last week saw many IMMAF alumni competing in the pro ranks, with Ayan Tursyn, Bekzat Zhassiya, Cornelia Holm and Eduard Kexel all picking up wins.
Over this week, more former IMMAF competitors will be hoping for similar success. First up is Saeid Mirzaei, who is scheduled to compete at BFL 76 on Thursday, March 30.
Mirzaei won gold at the 2015 World Championships before going pro in 2018. Following a stellar amateur career, there was lots of hype surrounding his move to pro. However, after three bouts into his pro career, he took a break from the sport until last year. He has been actively trying to make up for lost time, with this upcoming contest being his fourth in twelve months.
On Friday, 2016 IMMAF world gold medalist Leah McCourt will take on arguably her toughest test to date in Cat Zingano. The featherweight standout has quickly become a contender in Bellator MMA, and a win over Zingano could secure a shot at the title.
The following day a third IMMAF world gold medalist is in action. Two-time world gold medalist Gase Sanita has not enjoyed a positive start to her pro career, dropping three consecutive losses.
She will take on pro boxer Baby Nansen on Shuriken Fight Series 14 as Sanita looks to get her career back on track.
Three-time IMMAF medalist Cecilie Bolander is also competing on Saturday. The armbar specialist is scheduled for MCP 13, where she could add a belt to her accolades in her second pro bout. Bolander was a force on the amateur scene, only losing to Sabrina De Sousa, and is now taking the pro ranks by storm.
