[NEF PRESS RELEASE]
Bangor, Maine (September 28, 2023) – New England Fights presents its next mixed-martial-arts event “NEF 55: Glory Days” on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at the Cross Insurance Center in Bangor. Earlier today, NEF announced the co-main event of the card. “The” Ryan Sanders (21-10) will meet Sage Philippe (4-4) at the welterweight limit of 170 pounds.
Ryan Sanders has been a regular on NEF events since the promotion’s inception in 2012. In fact, Sanders was victorious in the main event of “NEF 1” with a first-round submission of Dan Keefe (7-3). He is 6-1 in his last seven fights, including a split decision win over Ali Zebian (9-4) this past summer at “NEF 53.” Sanders is the former NEF Professional Lightweight Champion and has challenged three times for the welterweight title as well. He is 16-6 in the NEF cage over the course of his career. Sanders currently represents VisionQuest Muay Thai based in Pittsfield, Maine.
“Remember when you were seven years old and it was Christmas morning? Well, that’s how I felt when my coach, Primo (Bellarosa), messaged me and said I had a fight. Giddy,” recalled Sanders. “I can’t wait for November 11. I get to go back to my home, and I’ve missed being home. I’m going to put on a clinic against my opponent, and hopefully he gives me a good review on Yelp after. Thank you to (NEF owners) Matt (Peterson) and Nick (DiSalvo) for coming through in the clutch. Thank you to my coach and my teammates, for I ain’t shit without them. Evolve or Die.”
After starting his pro career at 1-4, Sage Philippe has gotten himself on a hot streak in 2023 with three straight wins. It has been a busy year for Philippe who defeated Aaron Trecell (3-4) and a pair of Bellator veterans in Brandon Bell (10-13), and Bobby Flynn (5-5). Philippe is known for producing exciting fights and putting on a show for the crowd. He currently represents Xtreme Couture based in Las Vegas, Nevada.
"One of the biggest fights you can make right now,” Philippe noted of the upcoming bout with Sanders. “One of us is getting finished or there will be blood.... lots of blood."
“NEF 55: Glory Days” takes place on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at Cross Insurance Center in Bangor, Maine. Doors are scheduled to open at 6 pm with first fight taking place at 7 pm. Tickets to “NEF 55” are available now at www.ticketmaster.com.