MMA News

Hexagone 9, world Heavyweight title bout & the return of Anthony Dizy

Aaron East

May 3, 2023

The heavyweight world championship between Prince Aounallah and Paul-Emmanuel Gnaze tops the bill for HEXAGONE MMA 9, scheduled for June 17, 2023 at Reims Arena in France. The event also marks the home debut of Anthony Dizy, one of the best French fighters of his generation, and will be broadcast live internationally.

For its return to Reims on June 17, HEXAGONE MMA has planned a high-calibre card for an evening that already promises to be spectacular. The World Heavyweight title is at stake and guarantees a clash that will excite fans in one of MMA’s most explosive categories, renowned for its K-Os. Entering the championship for the main fight are France’s Prince Aounallah and Ivorian Paul-Emmanuel Gnaze, both winners of their previous fights at HEXAGONE MMA 7.

Before the big guys meet, Reims Arena promises an electric welcome for local hero, Anthony Dizy, whose HEXAGONE MMA debut is particularly anticipated. A former elite-level wrestler medalling at the European Championships, the Frenchman has fought across renowned international mixed martial arts organisations that include Bellator, Cage Warriors, BAMMA, M-1 and in the prestigious $1 million PFL tournament. In his first home fight, he will face Peruvian Roger Garcia in the lightweight category.

Alongside new faces are athletes that have already graced the HEXAGONE MMA cage. Standouts include social media star Matthieu Letho Duclos facing Spaniard Geison Santana Moreno at -84 kg. Attaining popularity through his refereeing of amateur fights on the Youtube channel IbraTV, the Frenchman has since proven himself to be formidable in the cage with his last two victories by K-O. Ditto for aspirational lightweight Abu Tounkara who will face British Cage Warriors’ veteran Tim Barnett for a battle between finishers.

Finally, true to usual form, HEXAGONE MMA will pay homage to local fighters in Reims. In addition to Anthony Dizy, other notable local fighters on the card are Sofiane Aïssaoui, against Peruvian Cristiano Estela Rios, and Alexis Fontes, facing compatriot Kevin Del.

“To build a good card you have to include a little bit of everything,” explains Mathieu Nicourt, matchmaker and sports director of the organisation. “We are highly satisfied with how this one has come together. There are circuit legends, prospects and regional fighters in the mix. It’s going to be a huge night.”