Among the rare promotions to have every professional belt accounted for, XFFC also gives amateur grapplers a shot at championship glory.
Of the eight amateur XFFC belts available, three currently sit empty.
The flyweight, middleweight, and heavyweight divisions each need a new holder, and below are three contenders who might wear the gold by year's end.
Amateur Flyweight: Luc Bernard (2-0)
Similar to the pro flyweight scene across Western Canada, the amateur division lacks seasoned veterans. Based at Winnipeg Academy of Mixed Martial Arts (WAMMA), Bernard has impressed through both of his outings. WAMMA athletes regularly travel to Grande Prairie to fight in the XFFC cage, and Bernard looks like a strong bet to challenge for the amateur flyweight championship this season.
Amateur Middleweight: Eric Stevens (5-2)
A chance to hold two belts simultaneously. Stevens currently reigns as the XFFC light heavyweight champion following his victory over Jordan Noseworthy at XFFC 22. While his last three bouts came at light heavyweight, Stevens has fought in both divisions throughout his amateur run. A dual-championship opportunity might draw him back down to 185 pounds. Ranked among the top amateur middleweights and light heavyweights in Western Canada, Stevens fits the bill perfectly for this vacant slot.
Amateur Heavyweight: John Woo (2-0)
Just like the amateur flyweight tier, the amateur heavyweight division in Western Canada lacks the veteran presence typically found in title matchups. Yet in his two amateur outings, Woo has established himself as one to watch, knocking down both opponents in under four minutes. Should XFFC aim to fill the heavyweight vacancy, Woo belongs on that shortlist and could soon be strapping that belt around his waist.
