HFC HALL OF FAME

Several fighters who competed in the Hardfought Championship (HFC) have progressed to the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), showcasing their skills on a larger platform. Here's a brief overview of some notable fighters:

Raul Rosas Jr.
Known as "El Niño Problema," Rosas Jr. made history by becoming the youngest fighter to sign with the UFC at age 17. He debuted at UFC 282, securing a first-round submission victory over Jay Perrin, and has continued to impress with multiple wins, including a notable submission against Ricky Turcios at UFC Louisville. (Wikipedia)

Austin Vanderford
A former NAIA wrestling champion, Vanderford transitioned from HFC to Bellator MMA, where he remained undefeated until challenging for the middleweight title. In February 2025, he signed with the UFC and won his debut fight against Nikolay Veretennikov via second-round TKO. (Wikipedia)

Orion and Louis Cosce
The Cosce brothers, both alumni of HFC, earned UFC contracts through Dana White's Contender Series. Louis Cosce's UFC debut at UFC 255 was a memorable bout against Sasha Palatnikov, earning them the "Fight of the Night" bonus. (Wikipedia, Wikipedia)

Nicholas Mazimov and Eric McConico
While specific details about their transitions from HFC to the UFC are limited, both fighters have competed in regional circuits and have been associated with HFC events. Further information about their UFC careers would provide a clearer picture of their progression.

These fighters exemplify the talent nurtured in regional promotions like HFC, highlighting the organization's role in developing athletes who make significant impacts on the global MMA stage.