KSW heavyweight champion Phil De Fries will attempt the next defense of his title in just over a month’s time.
De Fries (21-6, 1NC) will face Ricardo Prasel (13-3) at KSW 74 on September 10, 2022. Cageside Press confirmed the news Monday, following an initial report by MMA Junkie.
The British heavyweight has had a remarkable career resurgence in recent years, and has won nine straight fights dating back to October 2017. A former UFC athlete, from 2011 to 2013, the now 36-year old De Fries trains with the likes of current heavyweight standout Tom Aspinall, and has defended his KSW title six times.
Most recently, he defeated another UFC alum, Darko Stosic, at KSW 67 in February. Among his other notable wins, De Fries holds victories against Tomasz Narkun, Karl Bedorf, James Thompson, and UFC alum Luis Henrique.
Brazilian Prasel will enter the fight off back-to-back wins, including one over UFC alum Daniel Omielanczuk. Fans may also remember Prasel for his appearance on Dana White’s Contender Series in 2019, which saw him come up short against Don’Tale Mayes.
A proven finisher, Prasel has a submission (Achilles lock) and TKO in his two wins under the KSW banner — and multiple others in a pro career dating back a decade.
No location or venue has been announced for KSW in September. The promotion will be in action later this month, with KSW 73 taking place in Warsaw, Poland.
