The moment two champions meet, you expect sparks to fly.
Aldergrove's Craig Maclean (5-2) steps up to defend his Rise FC bantamweight title against reigning flyweight champion Chad Anheliger (8-5) when Rise FC 3 takes over Chilliwack, B.C. on Saturday evening.
With all five professional victories coming via finish, Maclean, 31, feels he holds the edge over Anheliger no matter how the bout unfolds.
"Honestly, I believe I'd just edge him out in every area," Maclean said.
"My striking is better, my jiu-jitsu is sharper, and I think I'm the more complete version of Chad."
Even with that self-belief, Maclean isn't underestimating Anheliger's danger.
Anheliger has picked up six consecutive victories for a reason, and Maclean expects to face the most assured version of him yet on fight night.
"He's been performing really well," Maclean said. "He hasn't lost in a while, so he's carrying a lot of confidence."
"He trusts his power, and he trusts his submission game. His last outing came at 125 pounds, but most of his career fights have been at 135 and 130, so he's absolutely dangerous at bantamweight."
After capturing his bantamweight title at Rise FC 2 with a first-round knockout of Andrew Bard, Maclean now gets his first shot at defending the belt on Saturday night.
"What stands out most is that he operates as a true professional, brings serious training discipline, and possesses a well-rounded skill set."
When Anheliger captured his flyweight championship on the very same night Maclean took the bantamweight belt, he knew immediately that the two of them were destined to cross paths.
He described Maclean as a fighter he'd always imagined would eventually step into his corner, so he seized the moment to put in a request for the bout.
"I'll own up to it—I asked for this fight," Anheliger admitted.
"I saw it as a fantastic pairing and one that's going to generate buzz. That's the kind of matchup I chase; I want fans talking."
Maclean's Acknowledgments
"I owe big thanks to Revolution Martial Arts, Supplement King Chilliwack, The Power Within Hypnotherapy, and Paul Frost Real Estate."
Anheliger's Acknowledgments
"I have to credit my girlfriend, Jenny. She's been incredibly encouraging—helps me prep meals and gets me through those grueling training blocks."
