Cage Warriors lightweight champion Mason Jones will chase “champ champ” status when he returns to action on September 26.
The promotion confirmed Monday that “The Dragon,” who captured the promotion’s lightweight title last time out with a first-round knockout of Joe McColgan at Cage Warriors 113 in March, will move up a weight class to challenge for the vacant 170-pound title against top welterweight contender Adam Proctor at Cage Warriors 116.
Undefeated Jones (9-0) will get the chance to add his name to a shortlist of fighters who have captured Cage Warriors gold in two weight classes, with Dan Hardy and Conor McGregor achieving the feat before heading on to compete at the sport’s highest level in the UFC.
“Adding the welterweight title to my lightweight belt is going to cement my legacy as a Cage Warriors legend,” said Jones, via press release.
“Being the first Welsh fighter and only the second since McGregor to win two titles is something that I have no doubt will catapult me to the UFC, especially on a night which is set to make history as one of the biggest ever for European MMA.”
Jones faces a stiff test of his welterweight credentials, however. Proctor (12-1) hasn’t lost since 2016 and is riding a seven-fight win streak heading into Manchester next month. “The Love Doctor” will be hoping to prescribe a first career defeat for Jones, who says he plans on making it as short a night as possible when the pair face off for the vacant title.
“Proctor is an extremely dangerous opponent with a lot to offer,” the lightweight champion admitted. “Overall, I know I’m going to be the better fighter everywhere and will be looking to get him out of there early.”
Cage Warriors 114, 115 and 116 will take place on successive nights from September 24-26 at the BEC Arena in Manchester. All three shows will be streamed live on UFC Fight Pass.
Lightweight king Mason Jones targets 'champ champ' status at Cage Warriors 116