CFFC flyweight champ Sean Santella vacating title to pursue additional opportunities
New champion expected to be crowned at CFFC 82
ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. – Reigning Cage Fury Fighting Championships (CFFC) flyweight titleholder Sean “Shorty Rock” Santella (23-7-1) has elected to vacate his belt in hopes of allowing fresh talent an opportunity to secure championship bouts while pursuing their dreams of fighting in the sport’s biggest promotions.
CFFC President Rob Haydak today announced the joint decision, which he and Santella reached following extended discussions regarding the champion’s fighting future.
“Sean has been a great champion,” Haydak said. “At this point, it’s an injustice for us to keep him on our roster as a prospect. He deserves to be fighting on the next level.”
According to respected rankings outlet Tapology.com, Santella is the No. 1-rated flyweight prospect currently active in the United States. A two-time CFFC flyweight champion (in addition to a stint as an interim titleholder), Santella went 11-3 during his time with the promotion. Haydak said that “Shorty Rock” is thankful for his experience as a CFFC titleholder but also realizes the value of the promotion’s titles to the sport’s younger athletes and wanted to offer an opportunity to those fighters moving forward.
“Sean and I have been discussing his future within CFFC for a while now,” Haydak said. “For him to suggest opening up the division for young up-and-comers speaks volumes. He has never shied away from taking any challenge we’ve put in front of him.”
At the same time, Santella will actively pursue his dream of competing at the sport’s highest stage.
“I truly hope he gets his shot,” Haydak said. “On any given day, he can strangle any flyweight in the world.”
Santella is currently riding the strength of a three-fight winning streak and stands at 7-1 in his past eight contests, overall. His 23 career victories include an impressive 14 wins by submission.
Haydak said the promotion will look to crown a new flyweight titleholder at CFFC 82, which is expected to take place March 21 in Atlantic City. An official announcement is expected soon.
Sean “Shorty Rock” Santella
Twitter: @Srock125
Instagram: @srock125
Facebook: seansantella22
ABOUT CAGE FURY FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIPS:
Considered one of the best regional, developmental mixed martial arts organizations in the industry, Cage Fury Fighting Championships (CFFC) hosts events across the United States with an emphasis on cultivating the best and brightest talent in the sport. CFFC events are broadcast live on UFC FIGHT PASS, the leading digital subscription service for fight fans.
Founded in 2006, CFFC has served as home to a variety of UFC stars, including Anthony Smith, Jimmie Rivera, Aljamain Sterling, Kimbo Slice, Paul Felder, Jim Miller, Nick Catone, Lyman Good, Katlyn Chookagian, Shane Burgos and Jared Gordon. Led by its respected President Rob Haydak, CFFC’s executive team consists of sports and entertainment industry executives who have worked for some of the most prestigious brands in the world.