The action from BTC 11 brought together a stacked card in Edmonton, highlighting several rising fighters across the sport. BTC Fight Promotions staged back-to-back shows out west before returning home to Ontario next month. Here, we explore potential next steps for every pro who stepped into the cage that night.
A quick heads-up: the pairings we're discussing are speculative in nature and haven't been officially confirmed or hinted at by anyone involved, unless specifically stated otherwise.
We'd love to hear your predictions — who do you want to see the top performers face next, and who do you pick to win in our imagined scenarios?
Matt Krayco (8-8-1) vs. Nick Hrabec (8-5)
Krayco put on a strong showing with a first-round stoppage of Tim Smith headlining the card. On the flip side, Hrabec delivered a likewise dominant finish just one evening prior at Unified MMA 40. Krayco's record doesn't tell the full story of his ability, which has made it hard for him to book bouts whenever he's in fighting shape. Hrabec, meanwhile, deserves a rematch with a seasoned opponent — and Krayco's willing to step in wherever, whenever, against anyone.
Colton Cronkite (4-0) vs. Julien Leblanc (5-2)
Cronkite survived his hardest test yet against Chris Chapman and kept his first-round finish streak alive. With the victory in hand, he's earned a chance to level up and find out exactly where he stands as he edges closer to the potential of earning a spot on Dana White's Contender Series. Leblanc brings the kind of skill and toughness that would make a perfect proving ground.
Izzudeen Atmeh (1-1) vs. Harley King (1-0)
In his second-round KO of Isaiah Metituk, Atmeh displayed noticeably sharper takedowns and ground defense alongside his clean striking. A bout with King would serve as another platform for Atmeh to highlight his striking and mat work, while giving King valuable experience against another promising young talent on the rise.
Oren Hanscomb (1-0) vs. Kirk Tse (2-0)
After more than seven years away from the cage, Hanscomb returned without showing any wear and tear, earning a unanimous decision over Dylan McIlvenny. The result suggests he won't require a gradual return to form if he plans to stay competitive on the circuit, and facing Tse down the line would offer a formidable challenge for the Zuma fighter.
Albaraa Atmeh (1-0) vs. Austin Russell (1-0)
Following a similar path to his younger sibling, Atmeh delivered an impressive striking display along with effective takedown defense in a decision victory against Devon Lozej. Among the sharpest strikers in Canada's bantamweight ranks, Atmeh would have a genuine opportunity to shine in a potential clash with Russell — one that could develop into an absolute brawl.
