Adam Assenza (13-6) is ready to finally capture the B2 Fighting Series lightweight championship.
The Burlington, Ontario native believed he was already in contention for the strap during his last outing against Sean Fallon. Unfortunately, pandemic-era restrictions forced the matchup onto a separate card, turning it into a catchweight affair instead of the title bout everyone expected.
Friday night, though, offers a fresh opportunity. In the headline matchup of B2 Fighting Series 127, Assenza squares off against Chance Beck (5-0) in a contest he's genuinely excited about.
"Honestly, I thought I was fighting for the belt last time out," Assenza told MMA Empire. "B2 runs several shows. I wanted to face Sean Fallon, who was the champion at the time."
"The fight happened, but COVID restrictions pushed it to a different promotion and it became a three-round catchweight match. I've been working toward another shot at gold, and now I've got the chance to battle Beck—a matchup that feels tailor-made for me."
With limited footage available on regional competitors, the 33-year-old Assenza did manage to study enough material on Beck to understand his game plan. He recognizes the champion's tendency to press takedowns early and consistently, given Beck's grappling-heavy background.
That won't phase Assenza, though. He trusts his own wrestling ability to keep the bout standing, and on the feet, he possesses the striking power capable of knocking out Beck.
No matter where the action unfolds, Assenza is certain he won't merely defeat Beck—he'll overwhelm him en route to the belt.
"He boasts an impressive amateur resume and fought twice early in his career before taking a break," Assenza explained. "He's a complete fighter, and I wouldn't underestimate him. He finishes bouts quickly, while I'm a machine—I never slow down."
"If we go the distance to the championship rounds, that plays into my hands. I'm a finisher myself, but whatever happens, I'm incredibly confident. Honestly, I see myself winning by domination. I'm superior in every area, and I expect to secure the finish."
Should Assenza capture the championship, he believes a victory could land him on the UFC's short-notice radar. Still, he maintains ambitions of collecting additional regional belts.
"I'm rated as the top Canadian at both lightweight and welterweight on various sites, so accumulating wins and championships gets me one step closer," Assenza noted.
"Once I claim this belt, I know the UFC will have me on their list when they need replacements. But I believe a champion must defend the strap. I'll defend it here, and I'm also chasing other titles, so I'll explore opportunities across multiple promotions."
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