There's no doubt about it — this bout is going to have fans on their feet the entire time.
Local favourite Achilles Estremadura (5-0) is set to make his second defence of the BFL lightweight title when he takes on Idaho's Kerry Lattimer (14-26) at BFL 65 on Saturday evening in Vancouver, B.C.
Three of the 27-year-old Estremadura's five pro wins have come via knockout, so he knows how to keep things away from the scorecards — something he's banking on once again this weekend.
"Between my pace and the accuracy of my hands, I genuinely believe I can close this out in round one," Estremadura told MMA Empire.
"I'm not one to get overly specific with my predictions, but I doubt he's faced anyone with my level of sharpness. My guess is I finish it sooner rather than later."
Lattimer, 34, brings plenty of finishing ability himself — four of his last five victories have come by way of submission.
Despite both men posing real danger to end the fight, Lattimer has a different vision in mind for Saturday night.
"Honestly, I'd love to step into the cage and run it the full five rounds to a decision," Lattimer told MMA Empire.
"Ideally, we go at each other hard and the judges struggle to pick a winner. That's the dream outcome for me."
Family is Everything
Estremadura will once again take to the BFL canvas surrounded by a sea of relatives and close friends — a scene he's grown accustomed to throughout both his amateur and pro careers.
Now well into his professional tenure, he says having loved ones watching on holds special meaning.
"I truly enjoy fighting in front of the people closest to me. Their presence gives you a sense that you can't afford to lose," said Estremadura.
"They're the ones I really want to witness my abilities firsthand. Sure, I want promotions and other fighters to notice too, but the folks who watched me grow up — I want them to see that I'm still improving and pushing forward."
Blessed with youth, a pristine record, and a habit of producing highlight-worthy finishes, Estremadura ticks every box for a shot at the biggest stage.
He trains alongside several UFC fighters on a daily basis at Checkmat Vancouver, and feels confident enough to make the leap — potentially starting with this weekend's matchup.
"I genuinely believe I'm prepared. I'm sparring with guys on UFC cards, and we push each other hard in the gym," said Estremadura.
"I feel ready. I know my hometown wants to see me there, and my corner is behind me. All I can do right now is keep taking each fight and proving I belong."
Lattimer a True Fighter
Lattimer arrives at Saturday's event already having competed in 2020, while also stacking a remarkable nine bouts through 2019.
At this stage of his career, Lattimer says his passion remains simple — he loves to fight, and he wants to keep doing it as frequently as possible.
"I love this pace. I'm getting older and life is short. I'd fight every single month if I could," Lattimer said.
"Last year felt lucky to land as many bouts as I did, but I count myself fortunate and blessed, and I just hope the bigger opportunities keep coming."
Lattimer has contested two title fights in his career, capturing the SteelFist featherweight championship in 2014 before dropping a TSC lightweight title bout earlier in 2019.
Nearly six years have passed since he last held a belt, so walking out of Vancouver with gold around his waist on Saturday would be monumental.
"At this juncture in my career, it would mean everything. I'm facing a bunch of younger fighters now," Lattimer explained.
"Chances like this don't pop up constantly, and I'd absolutely love to carry that BFL Canadian belt back home to America."
Estremadura's Shoutouts
"I'd like to thank the whole Checkmat Vancouver team, anyone that's helped me prepare for this fight, and all my sponsors." Follow Estremadura on social media: FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM
Lattimer's Shoutouts
"I always like to thank my wife and kids, and my coaches and team at Mandrill Academy." Follow Lattimer on social media: FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM
