Kenneth Cross didn’t earn a contract from Dana White earlier this year, but he’s no longer focused on that chapter in his career.
Cross (11-3) did what he needed to do to get the victory in his Dana White’s Contender Series, Season 4 appearance against Kevin Syler in August. However, he didn’t win in a manner that excited White enough to award him a UFC deal.
Since then, Cross signed with the XFC and will debut on its relaunch card on Wednesday in Atlanta, XFC 43, against fellow lightweight Jarel Askew. For the time being, his UFC aspirations are paused – and he’s OK with that.
“If I think about long-term goals, (mine) is to make enough money to support my family and myself and anything we want to do,” Cross told MMA Junkie Radio. “I can kind of take it into my own hands and make sure this happens. We only get to live this life for 100 years if you live healthily. If you plan on living great like me, you get 100 years. I want to win this tournament. I want to get a cool belt. I want to get a nice paycheck and I want to see what it’s like living life without all the stresses of day-to-day checks and all that.”
Cross, along with a handful of other XFC fighters, own stock in the company. XFC CEO Myron Molotky recently revealed to MMA Junkie that signing bonuses in the form of shares were offered to fighters on his roster.
“I want to see what the XFC has to offer for the following years,” Cross said. “I feel like they could provide me with a lot of things that I want in my future and my dreams. I’m excited to see what that brings. I’m excited to continue to grow and evolve and, yeah, put XFC on the map.”
Askew (11-6) has competed for Alaska FC and Canadian promotion BTC. A 28-year-old lightweight, Askew trains out of the renowned Team Alpha Male gym in Sacramento, Calif. When assessing his chances of victory, Cross isn’t worried.
“I’m a different breed, so I’m going to come after him strongly,” Cross said. “I’ve been working harder than I ever have. I’m prepared. I’m ready. I don’t see where he could take this fight that I’m not better than him. … I’m here to put eyes on the XFC. I’m going to dominate everybody and everywhere. It’s just going to be another fight – another high-intensity fight, so you guys can expect the best Kenneth Cross. Right now, we’re just doing everything to stay sharp, mentally focused, and prepared for war.”
XFC 43 takes place Wednesday at Tabernacle in Atlanta. The main card airs on NBC Sports after prelims on FITE TV.
After Contender Series snub, Kenneth Cross looking to ‘put XFC on the map’
