David Heath Set for MFC Debut

Former UFC star David Heath will make his Maximum Fighting Championship debut next month.

The Maximum Fighting Championship, the fastest - rising mixed martial arts organization in North America, puts its fourth show of 2008 under the spotlight with Maximum Fighting Championship 18: Famous on Friday, September 26 at the River Cree Resort and Casino.

In the main event, a new No. 1 contender for the MFC light heavyweight title will be determined as the always exciting David Heath makes his much-anticipated MFC debut against Emanuel Newton. The winner of the bout is likely to be first in line to face the MFC's reigning champion in the 205-pound division – Roger Hollett.

"This is going to be an electrifying fight between two very accomplished competitors," said Mark Pavelich, Owner/President of the Maximum Fighting Championship.

"David Heath is a fiery guy who craves the title and I was very happy to get him signed to a multi-fight deal. But there is no way that someone like Emanuel Newton, who is on a tremendous streak having won seven straight fights, can be taken lightly at all. Whoever wins this fight is going to be very ready to face the champ."

David Heath is coming off three consecutive UFC defeats. Last year - he dropped a points decision against top contender Lyoto Machida at UFC 70: Nations Collide in Manchester, UK. He is probably best known for his fight with Renato "Babalu" Sobral at UFC 74: Respect in August 2007. Sobral defeated Heath by anaconda choke in the second round. Despite the referee's attempts to break Sobral's choke, Sobral held onto it for four more seconds after Heath tapped out, resulting in him losing consciousness.During his post-fight interview, Sobral said that he was aware that Heath had tapped, but "he (Heath) has to learn respect.” “Babalu” was released from his Ultimate Fighting Championship contract after the incident. Heath went on to another defeat. He was stopped by Tim Boetsch at UFC 81: Breaking Point.

In featured welterweight bout, Ryan Ford returns to action following his action-packed title fight as he faces veteran Laverne Clark. Ford suffered his first loss in the MFC's inaugural 170-pound championship matchup but he showed power, speed and aggression before ultimately losing by third-round submission to champion Pat Healy. Ford is ready to resume his winning ways but he has a tough challenge ahead of him in the well-seasoned Clark.

Three lightweight fights on the Maximum Fighting Championship 18: Famous card will not only once again showcase the deepest talent pool in the organization but also cement the top contenders for the 155-pound crown. Joe Heiland will look to make his MFC debut a successful one and keep his undefeated streak intact but he is facing arguably the MFC's best lightweight in "Smooth" Ben Henderson.

Gavin Neil takes on Ryan Machan in a battle of blossoming young talents while two other lightweights both step into the MFC ring for the first time as Simon Marini squares off against Colby Snyder.