[NEF PRESS RELEASE]
Portland, Maine (April 14, 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 catchweight bout to the card. Robert Gray (1-0) is scheduled to meet Jack Burke (1-2) at a fight weight of 190 pounds.
Robert Gray will be making his second appearance in the NEF cage. He made his debut at “NEF 50” last November and scored a highlight-reel knockout on Cody Dular (1-2) a mere 30 seconds into the first round. The right hand Gray hit Dular with was so powerful that it actually took Dular, a heavyweight, off his feet and launched him into the air. Gray represents Team Krane.
“Jack’s significantly better than my last opponent,” proclaimed Gray. “I'm ready for the challenge. One of us is going to sleep. The talking is over. Let's throw down.”
Jack Burke made his NEF debut at “NEF 46” in February 2022 with a technical knockout of Nick Legrande (0-1) just 1:25 into the first round. Burke would go on to lose his next two in a row by first-round submission – including an armbar by Nate White (6-0) earlier this year at “NEF 51.” He will look to get back in the win column at “NEF 52.” Burke currently represents Karasu Tengu Academy of Nashua, New Hampshire.
“I can’t wait to be back in the NEF cage,” said Burke. Portland and AURA almost feel like home now! I don’t think Robert’s KO has aged well, and I think he knows he’s not gonna find that perfect shot again. When plans A, B and C don’t work, he’ll look for a way out, and I’ll gladly give it to him. If the moment doesn’t eat him alive, I sure will.”
“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.