Portland, Maine (April 24, 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 a professional lightweight bout to the card. Anthony Vasta (2-3) will face Gerald Meuse (3-0) at a fight weight of 155 pounds.
Anthony Vasta will make his fifth appearance as a professional in the NEF cage where he is an even 2-2. Vasta defeated Josh Beauparlant (0-5) at “NEF 51” earlier this year. Vasta needed a mere 42 seconds to pound Beauparlant into oblivion in a dominant performance. He also humbled Aaron Hughes (3-3) last year at “NEF 47,” forcing Hughes to tap in the second round to a D’Arce choke. Vasta represents Defensive Edge MMA based in Wakefield, Massachusetts.
“I’ve been training hard, and having a ton of fun preparing for this matchup with Gerry,” said Vasta. “I’m ready to have a good night in Portland with my teammates on the card!”
Despite having competed in the sport since 2012, Gerald Meuse will make his first-ever appearance in the NEF cage. Meuse turned pro in 2018 and has been perfect with three finishes. Early this year, Meuse made easy work of Beauparlant, putting him away with a rarely-seen Twister hold in the first round. In March, Meuse handed Jake Hixenbaugh (2-1) the first loss of his pro career. Meuse is known throughout the New England region for his elaborate walkout routines which have in the past involved choreographed dance numbers with military members and a Captain America outfit. He represents both Sityodtong and Brazilian Top Team Boston. Meuse is also an active-duty member of the United States Army.
“I’m very excited to fight in Portland, Maine,” noted Meuse. “I think Anthony is a great match up and I’m ready to put on a fight that will be marked in NEF history books. Although I’m not a Maine native, I’ll certainly feel at home fighting at AURA. Because if you don’t know, I love to dance. Once the cage closes, we’ll be dancing without music.”
“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.