[NEF PRESS RELEASE]
Portland, Maine (April 11, 2023) – New England Fights (NEF) returns to Aura in Portland, Maine on Saturday, May 13, 2023, with its next mixed-martial-arts (MMA) event “NEF 52: Zero Hour.” Earlier today, the fight promotion announced the addition of an amateur flyweight championship bout to the card. Caleb Austin (5-1) is scheduled to face Nate Russell (8-3) for the vacant NEF amateur 125-pound title.
Caleb “Dr. Feelgood” Austin made his NEF debut in 2017 while still a senior at Mountain Valley High School in Rumford, Maine. He put together an impressive record of 208-11 while wrestling in high school and won two state titles in the sport. The transition from the wrestling mats to the MMA cage was a smooth one for Austin who won his first four fights as an amateur by finish and the fifth fight by unanimous decision. Austin previously challenged for the flyweight strap against Tyler Smythe (1-0 pro, 7-3 amateur) and suffered a defeat in the fourth round. This will be his second attempt at capturing the belt. Austin represents Central Maine Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu based in Lewiston, Maine.
“One of my martial arts goals since my first fight has always been to win the NEF Flyweight Championship,” said Austin. “I have wonderful support from my family and friends, and great training partners that always push me in the gym. I am looking forward to fighting again and earning my best win to date over Nate Russell at NEF 52 on May 13th.”
Like Austin, Nate Russell also took a loss when he met Tyler Smythe in a regional title fight. Russell has captured several MMA championships throughout New England. He is currently the number-one ranked amateur flyweight in both New England and the Northeast region. Seven of Russell’s eight victories have come by way of finish. He is a longtime veteran of the New England MMA scene with a career dating back to 2013. Russell currently represents Fighting Arts Academy.
“I've been looking at Caleb Austin since NEF 42,” noted Russell. “It's good to see him getting back in the cage. This fight is long overdue. I can't wait to get to Maine and see where we stand.”
“NEF 52: Zero Hour” will take place on Saturday, May 13, 2023, at Aura in Portland, Maine. Doors will open at 6 pm with first fight taking place at 7 pm. Tickets are on sale now at www.TicketMaster.com.