Cage Warriors – Europe’s Leading MMA Organisation – have today confirmed a second world title fight for their upcoming return to Newcastle’s Vertu Motors Arena.
Reigning CW flyweight champion Shaj Haque is set to defend his title for the second time, facing off against the dangerous French knockout artist Nicolas Leblond.
Haque (16-5) claimed the 125lbs title in spectacular fashion, delivering Knockout of the Year at the 2022 New Year’s Eve event.
His last title defence came in July of last year, where he headed to enemy territory in Rome and defeated local favourite Michele Martignoni.
Leblond (11-4) enters this fight on a five-fight win streak, with four finishes, including a 2023 knockout-of-the-year contender against Michelangelo Lupoli and a thrilling comeback KO of Scott Malone in Glasgow earlier this year.
The two were originally set to clash at CW 174 London earlier this year, but the champion was forced to withdraw due to injury.
“Shaj Haque made history as the first Bangladeshi world champion,” said CW President Graham Boylan. “But he’s now facing his toughest challenge yet against Nicolas Leblond.”
“We’re bringing multiple world title fights to Newcastle, all featuring local talent in what promises to be a spectacular finale for our 2024 European events!”
November 23rd will also see Harry Hardwick defend his featherweight title against rising contender Keweny Lopes, along with a lightweight contenders clash between James Power and Dumitru Girlean.
CW 181 will air live on UFC Fight Pass and international broadcast partners.
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