On March 1st, 2025, Los Angeles’ Commerce Casino played host to an unforgettable night of MMA action as Up Next Fighting 23 (UNF 23) delivered thrilling bouts and showcased the spirit of competitive combat sports. The venue buzzed with energy as fighters stepped into the cage, determined to prove their mettle, while fans enjoyed every moment of the electrifying event.

An Exciting Night of Fights

UNF 23 brought together rising stars and seasoned fighters in a series of matchups that had the crowd on their feet, that featured 3 professional title bouts and 4 amateur title bouts. From high-intensity stand-up exchanges to technical grappling duels, the event underscored the passion and dedication that defines MMA today. With an Internet PPV format, the event reached fans far beyond Los Angeles, uniting a global audience under the banner of pure athleticism and fierce competition. Upsets, knockouts, and submissions, one of the best MMA events in recent memory.

The Main Event: Albert Morales vs. Chase Gibson

The first ever featherweight (145 lb.) champion and UFC veteran Albert 'The Belizean Warrior' Morales took on Chase Gibson -- what a fight!  As the first bell sounded Chase dominated with dominant wrestling and ground and pound that left Morales frustrated and ready to take the fight standing.  The crowd, very pro Morales was on their feet and shouting.  As Morales came out in the second round the game plan was clear, pressure striking, and it paid off quickly, with Morales landing a fury of strikes putting Gibson on wobbly legs, before Morales pressed the action and finished the fight with the referee calling a stop to the action and pronouncing Morales the winner, and still Up Next Fighting champion.  Morales showed grit to come back from a thorough domination in the first round to end it in the second round.  Gibson, leader of a local non-profit and father of 3, trains out of famed California MMA team, "it's a tough pill to swallow" -- has been on a tear winning his last 5 fights and on the cusp of a UFC debut.  There was some speculation that the fight was stopped prematurely, but the referee call still stands.  Morales a former UFC fighter is poised to return to the big show and his last few bouts have been absolutely exhilarating beating some big names and tough competition handily.

The Co-Main Event: Gianni ''Kryptonita' Vazquez vs. Austin Russell

The dominant fly weight champion Gianni Vazquez has been on a tear winning and defending the UNF fly weight belt 4x in succession, facing a game and technical opponent in Austin Russell.  Russell who trains out of San Diego's Victory MMA came to fight, with a close first round exchanging kicks and punches with the Mexican-born champion Vazquez.  In the second round Vazquez came out with a flurry of combos sending Russell to the ground and then shooting for a takedown in which Vazquez defended and then began to secure the darce -- he then rolled Russell and secured a perfectly executed anaconda choke which Russell submitted to with a tap.  Vazquez used his post-fight speech to call on the UFC to bring him into the ranks and promises to bring the highlights to the promotion.  Vazquez has been UFC caliber for some time with UFC fighter and training partner saying "He's ready for the UFC, he just needs to get the call".  The young Russell after a humbling loss, seems to have the technical abilities to go far in the sport and we should see some big fights coming from him in the future.

The Co-Main Event: Anthony 'The Bully' Romero vs. Johnny Robles

A battle of wills and highly technical striking and grappling this was a show, Robles clipped Romero early in the first with a high kick which sent the fight to the ground -- after weathering the storm Romero seemed to recover and showed some true heart and grit getting through the tough grappling of Robles.  A true back and forth from two great up and coming fighters, Robles was pronounced the victor after 3 hard fought rounds over the highly favored Romero.  Robles flew under the radar, but to his coaches they knew his abilities and weren't surprised to see the result.  Both fighters on the cusp of a UFC call-up and a huge unbeaten streak leaving both fighters as potential UFC prospects.  This is one of those evenly matched fights with high level mixed martial artists that you love to see but hate to see one of them lose.  Bright futures for both fighters.

REPRESENT: More Than Just a Sponsor

One of the evening’s standout features was the vibrant presence of REPRESENT —a brand that has become synonymous with quality, authenticity, and support for MMA and combat sports in general. REPRESENT not only sponsored the event and its fighters but also set up a merch booth right at the venue. 

Highlights from REPRESENT’s Involvement:

• Merch Booth Experience: Real ones flocked to the REPRESENT booth to check out exclusive merchandise ranging from stylish apparel to limited-edition accessories. The booth became a hub of activity, where supporters could connect with the brand, snap photos, and grab their favorite items as keepsakes.
• Proud Sponsorship: By aligning with UNF 23, REPRESENT reinforced its commitment to the fighting community. Their sponsorship wasn’t just financial—it was a statement of solidarity with the athletes, echoing a shared belief in hard work, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
• Engagement and Interaction: The booth offered more than just products. It provided a space for fans to engage with REPRESENT, learn about upcoming collaborations, and even win some exclusive giveaways. This interactive approach left a lasting impression on the attendees and further cemented REPRESENT's reputation as a brand that champions the fighter’s journey.

Looking Ahead

UNF 23 proved that when passionate fighters, dedicated promoters, and supportive brands come together, the result is a dynamic and memorable celebration of sport. The success of the event, amplified by REPRESENT’s impressive showcase, hints at an exciting future for Up Next Fighting and the broader MMA community. Fans left the venue—and tuned in from around the world—with a sense of anticipation for what’s next.

For those who missed the live experience, highlights and interviews are available on UNF’s social channels and website. And if you’re looking to gear up with some of that signature REPRESENT style, be sure to visit their online store or check out their booth at upcoming events.

Follow Up Next Fighting: @upnextfighting
Follow Represent Ltd: @representltd

UNF 23 was more than just a fight card—it was a vibrant tapestry of athletic excellence, community engagement, and the powerful partnerships that drive the future of MMA.

Stay tuned for more updates and behind-the-scenes stories from Up Next Fighting!