Alex Reid, a prominent figure in UK combat sports, is recognized for his past careers as an actor on shows like Hollyoaks, his well-publicized marriage to Katie Price, and a professional MMA fighter with appearances in BAMMA and Bellator. He now lends his influence to the International Fighting Championships (IFC), actively promoting their events and raising the profile of the UK’s fight scene.
The enduring relationship between Alex Reid and Sidekick Boxing began in 2012, when Sidekick first sponsored Reid for his BAMMA 11 bout against Sam Boo, aired on Channel 5. This commitment continued through his time with Bellator, highlighting Sidekick’s dedication to Reid and the sport itself. As Reid transitions into a promotional role with IFC, Sidekick has stepped up as the official equipment provider for IFC 9, guaranteeing that all fighters will utilize premium Sidekick boxing and MMA gloves.
Daniel Knight commented on the collaboration, stating, “Alex Reid has consistently shown great dedication to Sidekick, making it an honor for us to sponsor IFC.”
History of the International Fighting Championship (IFC)
Established in 1996 by Howard Petschler, the International Fighting Championship (IFC) played a pivotal role in the early development and regulation of mixed martial arts. It holds the distinction of being the first MMA promotion to secure state athletic commission recognition for its rules in Mississippi. Alongside Paul Smith, IFC contributed significantly to crafting the foundational regulations that eventually led to the Unified Rules of MMA. The organization was also responsible for staging some of the initial regulated MMA events across the United States and Canada, thereby cementing MMA’s status as a legitimate sport.
IFC 9 Event Details
The upcoming IFC 9 event is set for May 3, 2026, at The Empire Banqueting Suite in Aldershot, a venue renowned for hosting dynamic fight nights. This event promises a diverse lineup of MMA and kickboxing matches, showcasing both seasoned professionals and promising new talent. Attendees can look forward to an evening packed with expert technique, formidable power, and thrilling finishes. As excitement mounts and ticket sales grow, fans are assured of an unforgettable spectacle that exemplifies the pinnacle of UK combat sports.
Beyond the exciting fights, spectators will experience the culmination of extensive planning and strategic partnerships, notably Sidekick’s ongoing dedication to outfitting fighters with superior equipment. The synergy between Alex Reid’s promotional efforts and Sidekick’s decade-long support guarantees that IFC 9 will offer a thrilling, professional, and captivating experience for all.
Boasting premium gloves, a seasoned promotional team, and a robust roster of fighters, IFC 9 is poised to be an exceptional night for enthusiasts of MMA and kickboxing. This event further enhances the UK’s combat sports landscape, providing fans with a unique chance to witness both rising stars and established athletes compete.