This weekend, a new wave of talent steps into the professional MMA world. These fighters are taking their first official pro bouts, leaving behind the amateur ranks and stepping onto a bigger stage. For fans and scouts alike, it’s the perfect opportunity to spot the next stars before anyone else. Each week, if worthy, I will feature the week’s most exciting pro debuts.
Isabella Filippazzo is a rising women’s amateur standout who excelled at 125 and 135, capturing multiple titles along the way. She has a diverse combat background, having competed in kickboxing, Muay Thai, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. On the feet, Filippazzo thrives in combination striking, using varied angles and well-timed kicks. She’s dangerous both at range and in close quarters, bringing high-volume output that keeps opponents on their heels. While her striking is her forte, she can seamlessly mix it up with takedowns when needed, making her a well-rounded fighter with no obvious weaknesses. Filippazzo will make her professional debut on a big stage at Unified MMA 66, facing an opponent who should serve as a solid stepping stone into her pro career.
Alex Keogh makes his professional debut at Cage Warriors following a standout amateur career. He went 8-0 as an amateur and captured the Cage Legacy Super Lightweight title. Last year, Keogh competed in the IMMAF Junior European Championship, where he took home the gold medal. On his record, he already boasts a quick head-kick knockout, highlighting his reach and aggressiveness.
Keogh’s style is to close the distance and attack the neck, making him a serious threat with submissions like the rear-naked choke and darce. He’s crafty, capable of dealing damage while maintaining distance, waiting for opponents to make a mistake before capitalizing. Though still an unfinished product, he shows skills beyond his years. Starting his pro career in Cage Warriors is a major step for his development, and he gets a strong showcase bout to kick things off.