Bellator MMA Veteran Cosmo Alexandre Steps in on Short Notice at Lion Fight 17

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Lion Fight has changed its plans for Aug. 1's Lion Fight 17, as the main event pitting Thepnimint Sitmonchai against Dean James has been scrapped.

The Las Vegas-based promotion needed to replace “Mr. Knock” Sitmonchai after he encountered international travel issues involving his visa. Also, James incurred an injury in training.

Moving into top billing will be the rematch featuring Malaipet Sasiprapa versus Justin Greskiewicz. In a late addition to the event, former Bellator MMA fighter Cosmo Alexandre will compete against Jo Nattawut.

“As the premier promotion in muay Thai, fans trust that we will deliver a world class night of fights with each and every Lion Fight event,” said CEO Scott Kent in a press release. “I’m pleased to announce that we met this challenge in securing World Muay Thai Champion and fan favorite Mailaipet vs. Justin Greskiewicz 2 as Lion Fight 17’s main event, and in signing Cosmo Alexandre, one of the best Muay Thai fighters in the world, for the co-main event vs. Jo Nattawut, a world class Thai athlete who’s excited for this opportunity to take on Cosmo.”

The first meeting between Mailaipet and Greskiewicz went down at Lion Fight 6 in May, 2012. Mailaipet walked away with the decision victory.

Lion Fight 17 will take place in Ledyard, Conn., at the Foxwoods Resort and Casino. The main portion of the card will air on AXS TV.