Bacallao Returns Intent to De-Claw ‘The Tiger’ at M-1 Challenge: Damkovsky vs. Figueroa

(PRESS RELEASE) -- Josh ‘Iron Heart’ Bacallao steps up at M-1’s big stage for his bout against undefeated European lightweight prospect, Alexander ‘The Tiger’ Sarnavskiy at M-1 Challenge: Damkovsky vs. Figueroa. Fans can capture the 155-pound title contention bout LIVE on SHOWTIME on Friday, March 25 at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).

Lakeland, Florida native Josh “Iron Heart” Bacallao is ok with being considered the quiet and often over-looked opponent. Sporting a tight 6-2 record decorated with submission, TKO and decision victories, his strategy of canning the trash talk and simply putting up technically sound performances certainly speaks volumes for this young fighter when he prefers to keep to his silent side.

At 23 years of age, manger Ross Kellin of Champions MMA sings praise about Bacallao’s tenacity in the gym and his dedication to evolving his skills. “Josh puts everything on the table when it comes to the sport and becoming a holistic, well-rounded athlete. His core foundation comes from his high school wrestling background; his stand up is great; he has good jiu-jitsu. Josh is an exciting and humble fighter.”

Inside the ring Bacallao’s proven to be a strong, explosive fighter with dangerous hands, which is why he’s been invited back to fight with Europe’s leading mixed martial arts promotion, M-1 Global, after a difficult run through the 2010 M-1 Selection Americas tournament; a controversial fight with Josh Key ended in a no-contest, which advanced him in to the semi-finals where he next lost a tough spilt-decision to George Sheppard.

Speaking with Bacallao, a confidence voice boomed through the phone; “My opportunity with M-1 is all I’m focussed on right now. I’m doing everything I can within my power to ensure I deliver a flawless performance – the outcome will take care of itself.”

Intent on making the most of his opportunity against Sarnavskiy, Bacallao wants to make his true impression felt and silence critics who have already counted him out.

M-1 Challenge: Damkovsky vs. Figueroa airs LIVE on SHOWTIME on Friday, March 25 at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).

For information on SHOWTIME Sports programming, including exclusive behind-the-scenes video and photo galleries, complete telecast information and more, please go to the new SHOWTIME Sports website at http://sports.sho.com

For additional information, go to the official M-1 website, www.M-1Global.com and M-1 Global facebook fan page .