Invicta FC: A farm system unlike any other
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Hand Delivering The UFC Top Stars
Invicta FC is the world’s largest mixed martial arts promotion in the world where all of the competitors are female. At times, it feels like the lone platform that gives female mixed martial artists a consistent platform. Invicta may feel like a ‘minor league’ to ignorant MMA fans. But, the level of competition in the promotion is on par with some of the most prolific MMA organizations in the world. Invicta may not be on the same level as the UFC, but that also isn’t their goal. Invicta simply has hand-delivered their fair share of future stars to the sport.
The Significance of Shannon Knapp
The success of Invita can largely be credited to its President and owner, Shannon Knapp. Knapp’s credentials in the sport are well documented. Working with Strikeforce, the UFC, and King of the Cage, Shannon knew exactly what MMA was missing. So, instead of anticipating a change to happen, she initiated it.
Invicta FC’s goal was very clear from the beginning. Develop female fighters, give them a platform, and let them fight at comfortable weight classes. Consequently, Invicta has done just that. Since 2012, almost every single woman to hold UFC gold has come from Invicta. With the exception of anomalies like Ronda Rousey and Joanna Jedrzejczyk, the rest have spent time in Invicta.
Just check out their alumni page.
Producing Top Talent
Former champions such as Cris Cyborg, Amanda Nunes, Rose Namajunas, and Carla Esparza all built their name in Invicta. Standout contenders like Irene Aldana, Claudia Gadelha, and Michelle Waterson have as well. Hell, even the Police Gazette Bare-Knuckle Championship queen “Rowdy” Bec Rawlings came from Invicta.
With such a high turnover ratio, Invicta is a hotbed for talent. But, what makes the promotion so special? It’s simple. They’ve managed to find top talent and give them the best chance to be spotted through strategic partnerships.
Forming a partnership with Deep Jewels in 2012 was key business. Next, the promotion formed a strategic alliance with India’s Super Fight League. Both moves caused the talent pool to increase. Hence, being able to find the most significant likely stars of female MMA across the planet.
Fast forward to today, and Invicta has secured deals with both UFC Fight Pass and Combate. With Shannon Knapp, Amanda Nunes, and Julie Kedzie leading the ship, the future of Invicta will continue to shine brighter.
Daring to be Different
Invicta has also never been afraid to deliver whatever product they wanted to give. As MMA shifts closer to an approach akin to pro wrestling, the entirely women’s promotion has stuck closely to its roots. Contendership is earned. Champions defend. And, when a fighter graduates to the next phase of their career, they’re championed.
Phoenix Rising also helped propel Invicta to a new level. It allowed the promotion to show their ability to be imaginative. Also, it confirmed their ability to be in touch with what fans of martial arts want to see. Single night tournaments have become a thing of the past for MMA. However, as stated before, the promotion does what they want.
Currently, the promotion’s catalog is full of high caliber athletes. Expect names like Pam Sorenson and Vanessa Porto to be the next class of ladies to graduate to the UFC roster.
And when they do, expect Shannon Knapp to send them off proudly, while still keep the Invicta ship sailing.
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