Friday Night Fights (January 29, 2016)

The KFL Championship returned to Friday Night Fights in a big night of action and surprises!

VenoMark's first KFL Championship Open Challenge was a stunner as long time friend and ally "The Rocket" MKR emerged to try his luck for the title! The former KFL fighter earned a surprise victory over VenoMark in the First Round of Tournament 63. It was all pretty light hearted as he tried his luck again - unsuccessfully. It seems VenoMark may've simply failed to take his friend seriously in the tournament random draw. With the title on the line, he was better prepared and razor focused.

JUST_A_TARKATAN surprised everyone with an unannounced return from the injured list! He targeted KFL rival Moco in a winning effort - comfortably victorious. The return prepares him for a bigger challenge as he sets his sights on Knickxasawrrrr - the man who took him out! Expect that blockbuster grudge match next week on Friday Night Fights!

Eliminated Battle Royale fighter SubScorpTile couldn't get payback on stable ground, unable to overcome the offense of Banging! Some drama continued after the match as The_Purple_Bunny emerged to issue a challenge to the vulnerable "Secret Weapon". That match will go down next FNF!

More grudges spilled over or solidified as Sekktor fended off the advances of re-christened arch-rival "Portuguese Pegasus" Zentile! Alliance hopeful Jauger wend face-to-face with The Invasion's Jesseman, scoring an impressive +2 victory! Onimike's attempts to capitalize on his strong Battle Royale showing were unsuccessful as Coltess pulled out a tight win. "The Greek Crisis" maxilos & proXade made their stamp on the world - taking out the Malaysian combo of AbG & shin!

Friday Night Fights (January 29th, 2016)
12. VenoMark (c) d. "The Rocket" MKR [+1] [KFL Championship]
11. Banging d. "The Secret Weapon" SubScorpTile [+1]
10. Sekktor d. "The Portuguese Pegasus" Zentile [+1]
9. avenger45 d. Nephrite [+1]
8. JUST_A_TARKATAN d. Moco [+1]
7. Coltess d. Onimike [+1]
6. Jauger d. Jesseman [+2]
5. Philip94 d. ]{0MBAT [+1]
4. Jironobou d. Poasty [+1]
3. deadpool & MercWithMouth d. rick991 & kentei290 [+1]
2. Maridany d. zebraska [+1]
1. "The Greek Crisis" maxilos & proXade d. AbG & shin [+2]

Battle Royale Fallout This FNF

With a massive Battle Royale 2016 fresh in the books, the fallout begins this Friday Night Fights!

"The Secret Weapon" SubScorpTile knows what it is to cause an upset, but he'll be coming for payback against the man who upset him during Battle Royale - Banging!

"The Greek Crisis" maxilos & proXade will take a more indirect response to maxilos' elimination at the hands of m0s & Knickxasawrrrr. Their grudge will impact the world as they bring crisis to the different nations of the world starting with the financial prosperity of Asia!

PLUS: Battle Royale debuting warrior Jauger will challenge a member of The Invasion!

AND: Someone takes KFL Championship Open Challenge against VenoMark!

KFL Championship Open Challenge Announced

For three seasons the KFL Championship was defended regularly during Friday Night Fights. Fresh off a history making defense at Supercard 74: Battle Royale - VenoMark is bringing the gold back to Fridays in a whole new way!

Having recently become the second longest reigning KFL Champion after 215 total days as champ, VenoMark will now participate in a KFL Championship Open Challenge! The challenge will be the main event of this week's Friday Night Fights and open to any fighter willing to answer!

With the KFL Championship now available to the entire roster and not just sub-league participants, it will be very interesting to see who steps forward! VenoMark has amassed his share of enemies, but where championships are concerned, motivation is never in short supply. The only way to find out who takes the test is by tuning in to Friday Night Fights - January 29th!

NightHawk Sidelined After Battle Royale

Heroics have turned to tragedy following an amazing Supercard 74 appearance by NightHawk!

Last week, NightHawk announced his return from a precautionary time on the sidelines due to a 2-on-1 beating at November's Pre-Show 72. Just days afterward, during Friday Night Fights, he suffered another 2-on-1 ambush at the hands of Pink_Ranger & Ghostdragon!

The impact of the FNF assault left NightHawk in bad shape, but he showed tremendous heart to join Ratt in his 2-on-2 grudge match against Crow & Pink_Ranger! The pair emerged victorious from an amazing Supercard 74 match, but in the hours that followed, NightHawk took a decided turn for the worse, his injuries catching up with him.

Much worse than originally believed, NightHawk's injuries will likely force him to recover on the sidelines at the advice of officials. It is unknown when he will return to active duty. Stay tuned for updates on NightHawk's status in the coming weeks and months.

Weekly Rankings Recap - 1/24/16

The annual 40-fighter Battle Royale saw many competitors rolling their dice on the opportunity to headline Ultimate Grand Prix, this weekend! The honor went to Hall of Famer Kron - who made his 2016 debut as an overlooked contender coming in through the random draw at #39!

Kron's victory meant luck wasn't on the side of any Pre-Show 74 qualifiers, and those who chose to forego a UGP dream were able to make their own luck! Tournament 63 winner ElJobber continued his dream run in 2016, securing the #1 spot as new Undisputed Champion! The other big winner from title matches, Benjamin, made his move up the ranks as new Division 2 Champion.

Also making moves through the Battle Royale undercard - fighters who found strength in numbers: "The Predator" TonyTheTiger and redman in the solo stakes. Reigning champions "Team Xtreme" Marz & Violent`J, Ratt & NightHawk, and CCShadow & Scott-Howell - who return to the #1 spot and could be the next combination to take the Hall of Fame test of Team Xtreme!

The Great Arena League Top Ten:
#1 (--) ElJobber [Undisputed Champion]
#2 (--) Knickxasawrrrr
#3 (+3) Benjamin [Division 2 Champion]
#4 (+3) "The Predator" TonyTheTiger
#5 (-2) Statix
#6 (-2) United: Artanix
#7 (-2) United: Shoe
#8 (RE) redman
#9 (-1) The Great Genku
#10 (--) kingjolly

The Great Arena Duo Division Top Ten:
#1 (+2) CCShadow & Scott-Howell
#2 (-1) "The Greek Crisis" maxilos & proXade
#3 (+2) "The Invasion" Rhyno & Grayback
#4 (RE) "Guardians of the Crow" Pink_Ranger & Ghostdragon
#5 (new) Ratt & NightHawk
#6 (new) "Team Xtreme" Marz & Violent`J [Duo Division Champions]
#7 (-3) "The Corrupt Generation" Baraka_MK & Onryo
#8 (-2) JoelKatz & KittyKat
#9 (-2) Politics & Menas
#10 (-2) "The New Pacific Connection" Statix & Banging

The Division 2 Under 5k Top Ten:
#1 (--) Knickxasawrrrr
#2 (--) Benjamin [Division 2 Champion]
#3 (RE) redman
#4 (-1) kingjolly
#5 (-1) Jammer2Omega
#6 (-1) "The Apprentice" DeathScepter
#7 (RE) Nephrite
#8 (+1) proXade
#9 (+1) Menas
#10 (new) The_Hurricane

Supercard 74: Battle Royale 2016

It comes but once a year - an annual tradition that is a prize unto itself, but a launching pad to the spectacle that is the main event of Ultimate Grand Prix! 40 fighters enter at 90 second intervals until one fighter is left standing. It's Battle Royale and for the first time since the inaugural Supercard - no former winners are available to enter! That means a stacked undercard and a brand new Battle Royale champion! Here's how it went down:

8. Kron (#39) eliminated LordSkarlet (#28) to win Battle Royale 2016!
Battle Royale 2016 Eliminations:
1. Onimike (#2) elim. little-mac (#1)
2. Onimike (#2) elim. Torchia (#3)
3. Onimike (#2) elim. deadly (#4)
4. m0s (#6) elim. Mk_FrEaK (#7)
5. m0s (#6) elim. Onimike (#2)
6. Banging (#5) elim. deadpool (#10)
7. Banging (#5) elim. SubScorpTile (#8)
8. m0s (#6) elim. avenger45 (#9)
9. m0s (#6) elim. ErmackDaddy (#12)
10. m0s (#6) elim. Banging (#5)
11. m0s (#6) elim. Jauger (#13)
12. m0s (#6) elim. muttonhead (#14)
13. DECEPTION (#20) elim. GBK (#17)
14. m0s (#6) elim. giandavil (#16)
15. Knickxasawrrrr (#11) elim. maxilos (#18)
16. Ken (#21) elim. TheMetinPorta (#24)
17. Genku (#22) elim. Loopster (#19)
18. Genku (#22) elim. Ken (#21)
19. m0s (#6) elim. ShawnMichaels (#25)
20. Genku (#22) elim. Statix (#15)
21. Genku (#22) elim. Baraka_MK (#27)
22. LordSkarlet (#28) elim. Onryo (#29)
23. CaTigeReptile (#26) elim. tabmok99s_wife (#32)
24. Genku (#22) elim. Darfus (#33)
25. Politics (#36) elim. Poasty (#31)
26. CaTigeReptile (#26) elim. shin (#38)
27. The_Purple_Bunny (#23) elim. Nightmarescarz (#34)
28. Coltess (#35) elim. Sid (#37)
29. m0s (#6) elim. Coltess (#35)
30. Knickxasawrrrr (#11) elim. Damo (#30)
31. DECEPTION (#20) elim. Politics (#36)
32. Kron (#39) elim. Knickxasawrrrr (#11)
33. Kron (#39) elim. m0s (#6)
34. CaTigeReptile (#26) elim. Genku (#22)
35. Kron (#39) elim. DECEPTION (#20)
36. LordSkarlet (#28) elim. CaTigeReptile (#26)
37. Kron (#39) elim. The_Purple_Bunny (#23)
38. Kron (#39) elim. Mime (#40)
39. Kron (#39) elim. LordSkarlet (#28)A raw sense of anticipation filled the air. Battle Royale is always an intriguing match, but with no former winners competing for the first time since the inaugural match -- there was a special feeling of possibility. 8 fighters qualified, but 32 competitors would be complete unknowns. little-mac & Onimike started the match simmering -- the latter emerging as a surprising, early wall!

The complexion of the match immediately changed when m0s drew #6. As the first ever 2-time Master's Series winner, some felt m0s could've challenged for the Undisputed Championship. It seemed he was going to use Battle Royale to reinforce his legitimacy. The trickle became a pour as m0s began the biggest elimination run of the match - 10, by the time he'd finished. Banging was his first real rival, but joined early by brother Knickxasawrrrr - the numbers advantage meant it would take a real heavyweight to threaten the balance. Banging managed to pull SubScorpTile into a short, punishing sequence resulting in an elimination, but m0s & Knickxasawrrrr's double-teaming made it all seem meaningless. Banging was followed by another echo from the past - short-lived #13 entrant Jauger!

Business picked up at #15 when Banging's partner Statix made his arrival. As quickly as he resumed old issues with m0s, he succumbed to the brothers' double-teaming strategy. A tactic slowly being negated as more names entered the arena. #20 got everyone on their feet as DECEPTION made his unannounced return! In under 60 seconds "The Hitman" picked up his first elimination of GBK! #21 brought The King of the World Ken, #22 The Great Genku, and #23 The Service Krew's newest member and 2015 Runner-Up: The_Purple_Bunny! The heavyweight section was officially under way!

Statix, Loopster, Ken, Knickxasawrrrr & DECEPTION all attacked Genku. The_Purple_Bunny would also find himself grappling with multiple opponents - clearly seeing him as a threat. King Ken brought back memories of his performance in Battle Royale 2011 - eliminating TheMetinPorta the second he arrived! Genku took care of Ken, and then became fixated on #27 Baraka_MK and #29 Onryo! The Corrupt Generation were treated to a whole lot of special attention from Genku, ending in back-to-back eliminations with #28 LordSkarlet getting involved!

"The Chosen One" Damo came in at #30 and got a rude awakening. It seemed conspiracy theories may have put a major target on him! A 9-on-1 assault a minute after he entered saw #31 entry Poasty joining Knickxasawrrrr, CaTigeReptile, m0s, DECEPTION, Genku, Onryo, LordSkarlet and The_Purple_Bunny all attacking! That's right! TPB had supposedly joined The Service Krew in secret, but it didn't seem to matter one iota as opportunity beckoned! Damo stuck around for a little while, but there was no coming back from the brutal beatdown!

The big names continued to dominate until a shockwave was sent through the entire arena: #39 Kron! Through Hall of Fame omissions in Tournament 63 and qualifying matches - everyone had forgotten about Kron! The man with the most eliminations hung back to watch the carnage, initially, but was dragged in after Mime made his lucky #40 entry! Genku, Politics, Mime, CaTigeReptile & The_Purple_Bunny spotted Kron and piled on!

In the final dash to the finish we saw many old rivalries revisited, and some new ones beginning. CaTigeReptile & LordSkarlet feuded for a while. m0s & Knickxasawrrrrr continued raising coordinate hell. Kron ran wild for a while. The_Purple_Bunny tried to lie low after his earlier battering, but couldn't keep out of sight for long and paid the consequences. Kron's late entry and tremendous stamina really started to come into play as the Final 4 took hold. LordSkarlet targeted TPB in the final stages, before Kron swept in to finish him off! Mime, although a late entry, had suffered at the hands of m0s & Knickxasawrrrr and went out to Kron. LordSkarlet tried to rally, but Kron was just too fresh and too strong! For the first time in his career Kron will be in the main event of Ultimate Grand Prix to challenge the Undisputed Champion - but who will that be?

7. ElJobber only narrowly defeated United: Hokey (c) in a tight finish! [+1] [Undisputed Championship]
Exploding out of Tournament 63 as #1 contender, some questioned the degree of difficulty that led to ElJobber to his second Grand Slam Tournament title. Stepping into the arena with the Undisputed Champion, he found himself taken to a new level of difficulty! It was a blockbuster encounter as Hokey dug deep in his first title defense of 2016 - answering everything the veteran challenger brought! Few title matches have come down to such a close finish - ElJobber just a fraction better when all was said and done. A result that will no doubt soften the blow of ElJobber missing his first ever Battle Royale match - an accolade he's won twice. He now embarks on a journey to hold the title until Ultimate Grand Prix, when he'll face this year's Battle Royale winner.

6. Ratt & NightHawk defeated Crow & Pink_Ranger in a good contest. [+1]
It was a heroic entrance as NightHawk emerged in The Great Arena, supporting his friend Ratt despite receiving a brutal 2-on-1 beatdown during Friday Night Fights! By all rights, NightHawk probably should not have competed, but he muscled through the gut check to do enough to help Ratt get the win back from Crow & Pink_Ranger! Crow defeated Ratt at Supercard 73: Rattamania in December -- a sour note as Crow disputes Ratt's legitimacy as a Hall of Famer. The win at Battle Royale negated the numbers game played by Crow's team, and proved just how good Ratt truly is!

5. VenoMark (c) defeated Mimik in convincing fashion! [+1] [KFL Championship]
It was a historic first for the KFL Championship as the title was officially welcomed into the major league with its first appearance on Supercard! Reigning Champion VenoMark's shock elimination from Round 1 of Tournament 63 had raised a lot of questions, but it seems he's been reinvigorated by the opportunity to carry the gold forward! Of course, Mimik still blames VenoMark for taking his golden opportunity at Survivor Sequence 2015. His hopes to exact revenge by taking VenoMark's title were a fool's gold quest. VenoMark was simply too good against the Hall of Famer, claiming the historic occasion for himself!

4. "Team Xtreme" Marz & Violent`J (c) defeated "The United" Shoe & Artanix in a convincing victory. [+1] [Duo Division Championship]
There was a sense of growing belief around The United, but it seems many merely forgot the scale of threat posed by dual Hall of Famer duo: Marz & Violent`J! Shoe & Artanix produced a winning performance under any other circumstance, but the test of Team Xtreme is beyond almost anything seen before in The Great Arena! It will almost certainly take a combination of incredible experience and momentum to take the Duo Division titles. Just the kind of situation a Tower of Power could solve, should February's Supercard 75 feature the Duo Division Championship!

3. Benjamin defeated Sekktor (c) is a solid victory! [+1] [Division 2 Championship]
What a month for the Division 2 Championship! Benjamin set himself up as a major challenger with his Finals run into Tournament 63, but he couldn't be totally sure who his opponent would be! The title has traded hands between a three-man grudge blitz of Sekktor, Zentile and Murdoink! Sekktor's win during this week's Friday Night Fights meant he equals Murdoink's record low reign of just two days -- unable to match the raw power of Benjamin at Supercard 74! Benjamin has a lot of potential to bring stability to the title, but it remains to be seen if he will.

2. CCShadow & Scott-Howell defeated Unknown265 & mwgrant0 [+1]
CCShadow & Scott-Howell got back into the chase with a good win over a dangerous combination. The voodoo that propelled mwgrant0 deep into Tournament 63 seemed to be struggling, but CCShadow & Scott-Howell were still made to work hard for their victory. With a Tower of Power slated for the next Supercard in February, this could be a very valuable win!

1. TonyTheTiger, redman & Killswitch defeated "Lucifer's Ladder" Corrupt UlcaTron, Corrupt hydraslash & Corrupt MINION in a hard fought 3-on-3 encounter! [+1]
During last year's Survivor Sequence, TonyTheTiger's predatory instincts lured him into fighting alongside The Corrupt -- but rivalries spinning out of the final months of the Kombat Fight League made a common enemy of Lucifer's Ladder! TTT's strength compensated for his lack of team experience with redman & Killswitch. The trio too good for The Corrupt in a close battle!

Battle Royale By The Numbers - 2016 Update

It comes but once a year! The match to determine who will face the Undisputed Champion in the main event of Ultimate Grand Prix! Many will try - few will succeed! It's the first Supercard of the year and a coveted accolade in its own right! For the sixth year running it is: Battle Royale!

With so much at stake and so many fighters competing, the numbers mean more than in any other match! There are many ways to make your mark during Battle Royale, where time is never on your side, and luck of the draw means almost as much as skill! Here are the stats you need to know!

Number of Individuals Who've Entered Battle Royales:

129 out of 302 ranked competitors!

Number of Participants in a Battle Royale match:

40 - entering randomly every 90 seconds!

% of Winners Who Won the Undisputed Title at UGP:
40% (Ratt - UGP3, UGP5)

Luckiest Winning Entry Number:
#35 (Mimik - 2012, ElJobber - 2014)

Most Career Eliminations in Battle Royale:

24 (Kron)

Most Eliminations in a Single Battle Royale:
13 (Kron - 2012)

Earliest Winning Entry Number:
#8 (Ratt - 2013)

Most Battle Royale Appearances:
5 (ElJobber, STEROLIZER)

Number of Hall of Famers Who've Competed:
4 (Mimik, Crow, Kron, Ratt)

Most Pre-Show Qualifying Match Victories:
4 (Hokey - 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015)

Most Battle Royale Victories:
2 (ElJobber - 2011, 2014, Ratt - 2013, 2015)

Longest Duration in a Battle Royale:
1 hour 17 minutes 20 seconds (Ratt, 2013)

Shortest Duration in a Battle Royale:
1 second (STEROLIZER - 2011, 2015)

Former Winners Competing in 2016:

0 - For the first time since the inaugural Battle Royale!

Friday Night Fights (January 22, 2016)

The new era of Friday Night Fights continues, sending a shockwave through the league with a second week of dramatic events! Just two days out from Battle Royale the dynamic of the annual 40-man match has changed dramatically!

Earlier in the week, The_Purple_Bunny promised he'd reveal a secret during the new Friday Night Fights. In the main event, he dropped a bombshell by joining "The Chosen One" Damo as the newest member of The Service Krew! They put the exclamation point on their new alliance with a devastating victory over hapless victims - NosajSamoht & Shinnokxz! As two guaranteed entrants into Battle Royale this puts a whole new perspective on the match. With The_Purple_Bunny working for Damo can anyone seriously hope to stop this newest incarnation of The Service Krew?!

Also changing the match was The Invasion's ShawnMichaels, who challenged Alliance qualifier Shen_DuHBK. The Italian Cyclone was goaded into putting his guaranteed entry on the line - a fact he'll no doubt regret after the narrow defeat! ShawnMichaels is the only member of The Invasion assured to make an entrance, but with none of The Alliance a lock, he could be a lucky draw away from taking the Invasion to the main event of Ultimate Grand Prix!

Another fighter who'll no longer be booked this Sunday is "Pegaso" Zentile! The on-going wars for the Division 2 Championship saw Sekktor issue a grudge soaked challenge - only to stage a concrete reclaiming of the Div.2 gold! Sekktor restores the status quo back to the end of 2015, but will now go to Supercard 74 to defend the title against an inform Tournament 63 Semi Finalist - Benjamin!

In one of the most sickening moments of Friday Night Fights, returning fighter NightHawk found himself on the receiving end of yet another ambush by Pink_Ranger & Ghostdragon! The pair compromised his status with a 2-on-1 assault at Pre-Show 72: Duo Domination - November 15, 2015. It remains to be seen if NightHawk will be able to follow through on his Supercard 74 challenge. It seems no matter what Ratt tries, he just can't neutralize the numbers advantage of Crow!

Also putting in noteworthy performances: redman & Killswitch successful over the Corruption of rivals UlcaTron & hydraslash. In a repeat of last week's KFL grudge match, avenger45 was also able to more decisively fend off the challenge of Jironobou.

Friday Night Fights (January 22, 2016)
12. "The Service Krew" Damo & The_Purple_Bunny d. NosajSamoht & Shinnokxz [+12]
11. Sekktor d. "Pegaso" Zentile (c) [+1] [Division 2 Championship]
10. redman & Killswitch d. "Lucifer's Ladder" Corrupt UlcaTron & Corrupt hydraslash [+1]
9. ShawnMichaels d. "Italian Cyclone" Shen_DuHBK (q) [Battle Royale Qualification]
8. avenger45 d. Jironobou [+1]
7. Nephrite d. The_Rock [+2]
6. Philip94 d. nightbreed_16 [+1]
5. "The Invasion" Rhyno & Grayback d. rick991 & kentei290 [+1]
4. zebraska d. irulegames1234 [+1]
3. Kiara85 & Stealth-Ninja d. Coltess & Moco [+1]
2. Poasty d. SK9608 [+2]
1. "Guardians of the Crow" Pink_Ranger & Ghostdragon d. NightHawk [+12]

Challenge Issued for NightHawk's Return!

You'd have to cast your mind back to November to remember the last time NightHawk was in action in The Great Arena. The former Duo Division Champion was a hapless victim of a 2-on-1 ambush by Pink_Ranger & Ghostdragon at Pre-Show 72 -- a fact that left his partner Ratt alone to face the duo at Supercard 74: Survivor Sequence!

Since then, Ratt has been inducted into the Hall of Fame - and the animosity of the "Guardians of the Phoenix" was epitomized when Crow launched a spiteful attack against Ratt's admission! He ended Ratt's year on a sour note, but now NightHawk is ready to return and Rattamania is alive once more!

Ratt & NightHawk will reunite at Supercard 74: Battle Royale to issue a challenge against Crow & Pink_Ranger! There'll be no surprise numbers advantage this time, as Ratt & NightHawk get pro-active to even the score!

Supercard 74: Battle Royale (January 24th, 2016):
- 40-fighter Battle Royale featuring: The_Purple_Bunny, The Great Genku, m0s, Knickxasawrrrr, "The Chosen One" Damo, "The Guardian" CaTigeReptile, "The Secret Weapon" SubScorpTile & "The Italian Cyclone" Shen_DuHBK!
- ElJobber versus United: Hokey (c) [Undisputed Championship]
- Mimik versus VenoMark (c) [KFL Championship]
- "The United" Shoe & Artanix versus "Team Xtreme" Marz & Violent`J (c) [Duo Division Championship]
- Ratt & NightHawk versus "Guardians of the Phoenix" Crow & Pink_Ranger
- Benjamin versus "Pegaso" Zentile (c) [Division 2 Championship]

Is Damo the Battle Royale Chosen One?

Before his qualifying match at Pre-Show 74, speculation surrounding Damo's unnamed opponent ranged from returning Hall of Famers, to former Undisputed Champions. Even grudge matches were widely considered coming out of Tournament 63. Instead, the mystery unveiling revealed one of Battle Royale's most underwhelming competitors: STEROLIZER -- two-time holder of the record for shortest appearance of only 1 second

The match was unsurprisingly won by Damo, guaranteeing him qualification into this weekend's annual Battle Royale: a match that carries with it the auspicious reward of a main event Undisputed Championship shot at Ultimate Grand Prix! So, why was it so easy?

In the last week, Damo has been rechristened "The Chosen One". It all seems to point to Damo being hand-picked by officials to win Battle Royale. There are even rumors of a special insurance policy for the 40-fighter match to guarantee him victory. Special qualification for The Service Krew, perhaps?

What ever the plan may be for this Sunday, it's clear Damo is receiving special treatment, and it may have just made him the most dangerous man in the 40-fighter Battle Royale!

Future of the KFL Championship Revealed

Last week's return of Friday Night Fights ushered in a new era of competition for The Great Arena, answering one of the pressing questions raised by December's Kombat Fight League closure! Still uncertain: The fate of the sub-league's KFL Championship!

The title was won by VenoMark in the final bout of 2015. It can now be announced that the KFL Championship lineage will continue in 2016!

On the council's decision to absorb the sub-league championship into the main ranks, spokesman Mick explained: "The KFL Championship has provided a target goal for a wide variety of fighters since its inception. It crosses thresholds that bridge the gap from the Division 2 to the Undisputed ranks. It's a unique and valuable alternative that I hope can become a stepping stone opportunity as its offered to a much wider array of fighters."

The increase in accessibility from the KFL's 50-some registered combatants is clearly a major draw for the league: "I'm looking forward to fresh title match-ups and a greater level of unpredictability. There are over 300 registered fighters as of 2016. Eligibility just went to a whole new level! Who knows what's in store for the KFL Championship?"

There won't be a long wait. The news comes with the announcement of the first KFL Championship match for 2016. For the first time in history, the KFL Championship will be defended on a Supercard when VenoMark answers the challenge of former KFL fighter and arch-rival: Mimik!

"Last week we saw the Division 2 Championship defended during Friday Night Fights for the very first time. In this spirit of integration, the first KFL Championship match of 2016 is going to take place at Supercard 74: Battle Royale. Mimik is highly motivated. It should be a great match."

Supercard 74: Battle Royale (January 24th, 2016):
- 40-fighter Battle Royale featuring: The_Purple_Bunny, The Great Genku, m0s, Knickxasawrrrr, "The Chosen One" Damo, "The Guardian" CaTigeReptile, "The Secret Weapon" SubScorpTile & "The Italian Cyclone" Shen_DuHBK!
- ElJobber versus United: Hokey (c) [Undisputed Championship]
- "The United" Shoe & Artanix versus "Team Xtreme" Marz & Violent`J (c) [Duo Division Championship]
- Mimik versus VenoMark (c) [KFL Championship]
- Benjamin versus "Pegaso" Zentile (c) [Division 2 Championship]

The_Purple_Bunny Enters Battle Royale 2016!

The_Purple_Bunny has a secret - and it isn't what he'll be doing Sunday, January 24th!

The Battle Royale 2015 Runner-Up shared in the announcement that he will be granted automatic qualification into this year's 40-fighter Battle Royale!

He taunted those who had theorized he was going to be Damo's mystery opponent in a Pre-Show 74 qualifying match. He mockingly asked if everyone was surprised not to see him, calling qualification a triviality beneath last year's runner-up!

TPB then turned his attentions to the match ahead, with a special warning for SubScorpTile: The guaranteed Battle Royale qualifier was also the man who eliminated The_Purple_Bunny in a shock Round 1 upset during Tournament 63!

He said he'd take great pleasure in seeing SubScorpTile eliminated from the match, but wanted him to make a special effort to ensure he lasts long enough for TPB to do it himself! He scoffed at SST's nickname "The Secret Weapon", announcing he's got a secret of his own, and if SubScorpTile wants to know what it's all about, he should tune in to Friday Night Fights to see it first hand!

Is The_Purple_Bunny hiding something, or is this just mind games ahead of Battle Royale? Questions that will only be answered by being here Friday, January 22nd!

Supercard 74: Battle Royale (January 24th, 2016)
- 40-fighter Battle Royale featuring: The_Purple_Bunny, The Great Genku, m0s, Knickxasawrrrr, "The Chosen One" Damo, "The Guardian" CaTigeReptile, "The Secret Weapon" SubScorpTile & "The Italian Cyclone" Shen_DuHBK!
- ElJobber versus United: Hokey (c) [Undisputed Championship]
- "The United" Shoe & Artanix versus "Team Xtreme" Marz & Violent`J (c) [Duo Division Championship]
- Benjamin versus "Pegaso" Zentile (c) [Division 2 Championship]

Weekly Rankings Recap - 1/17/16

The Duo Division came to life this week with the return of Friday Night Fights and the UGP Season launch with Pre-Show 74: The Long Hard Road!

Legendary combos got their year off to the right start: "The United" Shoe & Artanix becoming #1 contenders, while CCShadow & Scott-Howell struck back against FNF invaders! Neither team could upset the surprise package of #1 ranked combo "The Greek Crisis" maxilos & proXade.

Battle Royale qualification was the key for Genku and m0s to start their climb up the Top 10. Duo victories also helped Statix, Shoe & Artanix return to the upper tier. This movement sent Benjamin tumbling down the major ranks, but he remains steadfast in the Under 5000 ladder as Division 2 #1 Contender!

Banging, proXade and Menas were the big Division 2 movers this week. kingjolly made a surprise gain off a hard fought loss for Jammer2Omega (with Porygonix), even as he sits precariously at the bottom spot of the league Top 10! kingjolly is all but certain to fall down the ranks, inactive since his brutal Quarter Final loss to #1 fighter ElJobber during Tournament 63.

The Great Arena League Top Ten:
#1 (--) ElJobber [#1 Contender]
#2 (--) Knickxasawrrrr
#3 (+1) Statix
#4 (+2) United: Artanix [Duo #1 Contender]
#5 (+2) United: Shoe [Duo #1 Contender]
#6 (-3) Benjamin [Division 2 #1 Contender]
#7 (-2) "The Predator" TonyTheTiger
#8 (+2) The Great Genku
#9 (RE) m0s
#10 (-1) kingjolly

The Great Arena Duo Division Top Ten:
#1 (--) "The Greek Crisis" maxilos & proXade
#2 (RE) "The United" Shoe & Artanix [#1 Contenders]
#3 (+4) CCShadow & Scott-Howell
#4 (-1) "The Corrupt Generation" Baraka_MK & Onryo
#5 (new) "The Invasion" Rhyno & Grayback
#6 (RE) JoelKatz & KittyKat
#7 (RE) Politics & Menas
#8 (+2) "The New Pacific Connection" Statix & Banging
#9 (new) "The Alliance" The_Hurricane & AlbertBeefcake
#10 (-8) Jammer2Omega & Porygonix

The Division 2 Under 5k Top Ten:
#1 (--) Knickxasawrrrr
#2 (--) Benjamin [#1 Contender]
#3 (+1) kingjolly
#4 (-1) Jammer2Omega
#5 (--) "The Apprentice" DeathScepter
#6 (--) Corrupt Baraka_MK
#7 (RE) Banging
#8 (--) Loopster
#9 (RE) proXade
#10 (new) Menas

Pre-Show 74: The Long Hard Road

The stakes were high for Pre-Show 74 as The Long Hard Road to Ultimate Grand Prix was officially laid out! Qualifying matches to guarantee entry into the 40-man random draw Battle Royale were the marquee, while the Duo Division officially launched into 2016 with some of the top combos duking it out in grudge matches spawning from Tournament 63 and the end of 2015!

An eclectic group of frontline contenders qualified for the Battle Royale match:
m0s finally scored payback for being exiled from the KFL with a confident main event win over arch-rival LordSkarlet! Also headlining - The Great Genku confirmed his path back to the title, earning a grudge fuelled win over the man he blames for costing him the Undisputed Championship in a December three-way: "King of the World" Ken! There was much less to recently proclaimed "Chosen One" Damo's win -- his much talked about mystery opponent revealed to be STEROLIZER! Also earning guaranteed entry: m0s' brother Knickxasawrrrr, 2016 tournament upstart SubScorpTile, "The Guardian" CaTigeReptile, and The Alliance's Shen_DuHBK - who took out the Invasion's AcidicWonder!

It was a triumphant day for The Alliance all around! Invasion frontmen ShawnMichaels & The_Rock fell victim to a vengeful grudge challenge from "The Greek Crisis" maxilos & proXade. Meanwhile; Alliance "Superfriends" The_Hurricane & AlbertBeefcake took part in a blockbuster duo clash with Jammer2Omega & Porygonix! The win may've gone with the veteran team, but it's clear J2O & Pory have tremendous chemistry as one of the league's newest up-and-coming combos! A great competitive contest!

Of course, in the #1 contenders match "The United" Shoe & Artanix reminded everybody just how good they can be. They thoroughly put away the challenge of Unknown265 & mwgrant0 to set themselves up with a big Supercard 74 showdown against Hall of Fame Duo Division Champions: "Team Xtreme" Marz & Violent`J! You can bet that's a match fellow ICWW immortals Statix & Banging will be watching very closely. The New Pacific Connection got back into action after a brief hiatus, effortlessly fending off Liam & nif.

The Division 2 Championship made history - Murdoink ending the shortest reign in the title's history when he lost to "Pegaso" Zentile just two days after winning at Friday Night Fights! Sekktor did the hard work, taking out Murdoink early in the match to get his hands on Zentile. Alas; The Portuguese Pegaso was able to do as he did so often in 2015 - sneaking out with the win. Zentile will now defend against Benjamin at Supercard 74, but this feud seems far from over!

Pre-Show 74: The Long Hard Road (January 17th, 2016):
15. m0s comprehensively defeated "The Redeemer" LordSkarlet! [+2] [Battle Royale Qualifier]
14. The Great Genku thoroughly defeated King Ken. [+1] [Battle Royale Qualifier]
13. "The United" Shoe & Artanix defeated Unknown265 & mwgrant0 in a decisive victory! [+2] [#1 Contenders]
12. "The Chosen One" Damo comprehensively defeated mystery opponent STEROLIZER! [+6] [Battle Royale Qualifier]
11. Knickxasawrrrr defeated Mime in a hard fought match. [+1] [Battle Royale Qualifier]
10. "The Alliance" The_Hurricane & AlbertBeefcake defeated Jammer2Omega & Porygonix in a close fought match! [+1]
9. "The Secret Weapon" SubScorpTile defeated NovaStarr [+1] [Battle Royale Qualifier]
8. "The Guardian" CaTigeReptile defeated "The Predator" TonyTheTiger [+1] [Battle Royale Qualifier]
7. "Pegaso" Zentile defeated Sekktor & Murdoink (c) [+1/--/-1] [Division 2 Championship]
6. "Italian Cyclone" Shen_DuHBK defeated AcidicWonder [+1] [Battle Royale Qualifier]
5. "The New Pacific Connection" Statix & Banging comfortably defeated Liam & nif [+1]
4. "Lucifer's Ladder" Corrupt UlcaTron & Corrupt hydraslash d. Bofh & Dolce [+1]
3. Politics & Menas defeated redman & Killswitch [+1]
2. JoelKatz & KittyKat defeated Jerrod & Corrupt MINION. [+1]
1. "The Greek Crisis" maxilos & proXade defeated "The Invasion" ShawnMichaels & The_Rock [+1]

The stage is now set for Supercard 74: Battle Royale - Sunday, January 24th!

7 hopeful fighters are guaranteed for the annual 40-fighter match for an Undisputed Championship shot at the main event of Ultimate Grand Prix! PLUS_ Three title matches are confirmed, with Grand Slam Launch winner ElJobber challenging Hokey for the Undisputed Championship -- "The United" Shoe & Artanix taking it to extremes against Duo Division Champions Marz & Violent`J -- and Benjamin gearing up for Division 2 gold against "Pegaso" Zentile! Stay tuned for more announcements and week 2 of the all-new Friday Night Fights!

Full Pre-Show 74 Card Has Supercard Implications

A #1 Contenders match and a Championship battle join the full card for this weekend's Pre-Show 74: The Long Hard Road!

After a couple of strong individual performances during the 2016 Grand Slam Launch: mwgrant0 & Unknown265 will meet "The United" Shoe & Artanix to determine the next team to take the test of Duo Division Champions! Hall of Fame pairing "Team Xtreme" Marz & Violent`J established a stranglehold over the titles with their win last October. They've claimed a string of victories over some of the best teams in the league - but they haven't faced either of the competing teams!

The Duo Division will feature prominently at Pre-Show 74, relaunching with a total of seven 2-on-2 matches announced for the card. The other six feature grudges spinning out of the solo Grand Slam Launch tournament, headlined by new sensations Jammer2Omega & Porygonix booked against Alliance interlopers "The Superfriends" The_Hurricane & AlbertBeefcake! Hurricane eliminated Porygonix in the First Round of Tournament 63, but it was a decision of bookers to test the two white meat combos who bare no ill will. J2O & Pory are still much more focused on gelling as a team, while The Superfriends are saving their animosity for The Invasion!

There'll be much more malice in the Division 2 Championship match! The battles of the past few weeks will culminate in a three-way title match between intersecting rivals Sekktor, Zentile & Murdoink! Only one can walk out with the Div. 2 title! The winner will defend the gold against Tournament 63 Semi Finalist Benjamin at Supercard 74!

No further clues on who Damo will face in his Battle Royale Qualifying match. All of the already speculated names remain viable options, but the reasons for the mystery opponent - no clearer.

Pre-Show 74: The Long Hard Road (January 17th, 2016):
- "The Redeemer" LordSkarlet versus m0s [Battle Royale Qualifier]
- The Great Genku versus King Ken [Battle Royale Qualifier]
- Mime versus Knickxasawrrrr [Battle Royale Qualifier]
- "Voice of Reason" Damo versus [Opponent To Be Determined] [Battle Royale Qualifier]
- NovaStarr versus "The Secret Weapon" SubScorpTile [Battle Royale Qualifier]
- "The Predator" TonyTheTiger versus "The Guardian" CaTigeReptile [Battle Royale Qualifier]
- "Italian Cyclone" Shen_DuHBK versus AcidicWonder [Battle Royale Qualifier]
- Unknown265 & mwgrant0 versus "The United" Shoe & Artanix [#1 Contenders]
- Sekktor versus "Pegaso" Zentile versus Murdoink (c) [Division 2 Championship]
- Jammer2Omega & Porygonix versus "The Superfriends" The_Hurricane & AlbertBeefcake
- Liam & nif versus "The New Pacific Connection" Statix & Banging
- "Lucifer's Ladder" UlcaTron & hydraslash versus Bofh & Dolce
- Politics & Menas versus redman & Killswitch
- Jerrod & Corrupt MINION versus JoelKatz & KittyKat
- "The Greek Crisis" maxilos & proXade versus "The Invasion" The_Rock & ShawnMichaels

Supercard 74: Battle Royale (January 24th, 2016):
- 40-fighter Battle Royale for a title shot at Ultimate Grand Prix
- ElJobber versus United: Hokey (c) [Undisputed Championship]
- To Be Determined versus "Team Xtreme" Marz & Violent`J (c) [Duo Division Championship]
- Benjamin versus To Be Determined (c) [Division 2 Championship]

Friday Night Fights (January 15, 2016)

A new era of Friday Night Fights has arrived with a tense clash of the old and new!

In a shock twist, a December rivalry escalated into an unexpected title match! "Pegaso" Zentile agreed to put his recently won Division 2 Championship on the line in order to get a piece of payback against Murdoink! Instead, Murdoink flipped the script - again coming out on top to win his first Division 2 Championship in the historic first appearance of the title on Friday Night Fights!

Fighters from the KFL era pursued lingering "Armageddon Month" rivalries, while also defending themselves from an influx of new talents. The Invasion made their presence felt on Friday Night Fights, appearing in three team matches, including the advertised main event that went in favour of legendary former dual KFL Champions: CCShadow & Scott-Howell!

CCShadow & Scott-Howell reasserted themselves as one of the top teams - much too strong for the "Catch 22" combo of Ironize & AcidicWonder. Fortune smiled more favourably on the other pairings from The Invasion. Leaders ShawnMichaels & The_Rock emerged early to declare The Invasion's presence and issue a challenge to two KFL fighters. rick991 & kentei290 teamed for the first time, completely out of their depth! Coltess & Moco were better prepared by their improvised team-up late last year, but still unable to overcome the return of Rhyno & Grayback!

TonyTheTiger was able to fend off the aggressions of "Lucifer's Ladder" combination UlcaTron & hydraslash: still seething over their mutual defeat during KFL Armageddon Month. "The Predator" has been an outlying contender for quite some time. The 2-on-1 win sets his year off to a great start!

Also impressive was the grudge match between avenger45 & Jironobou! Jironobou picked up a surprise elimination against avenger45 during a 5-on-5 KFL match in late November. It was almost history repeating as Jironobou put up an unexpected defences, taking it right down to the wire!

Friday Night Fights (January 15, 2016)
12. CCShadow & Scott-Howell d. "The Invasion" Ironize & AcidicWonder [+3]
11. Murdoink d. "Pegaso" Zentile (c) [+1] [Division 2 Championship]
10. "The Predator" TonyTheTiger d. "Lucifer's Ladder" UlcaTron & hydraslash [+2]
9. NovaStarr d. Knickxasawrrrr [+1]
8. Nephrite d. nightbreed_16 & "The Rocket" MKR [+1/+1/-2]
7. avenger45 d. Jironobou [+1]
6. Philip94 d. Methuselah6463 [+1]
5. "The Invasion" Rhyno & Grayback d. Coltess & Moco [+1]
4. Maridany d. DarknessDragon [+1]
3. zebraska d. subzero776 [+1]
2. "The Invasion" ShawnMichaels & The_Rock d. rick991 & kentei290 [+1]
1. Poasty d. bdog_13 [+1]

Battle Royale Qualifying Matches This Weekend

Season 2016 is officially bursting at the seams! The major announcements continue to fly with the official naming of seven Battle Royale Qualifying matches for this weekend's Pre-Show 74!

Headlining the list are two major rematches! "The Redeemer" LordSkarlet found himself eliminated in the First Round of Tournament 63, suffering the unfavourable draw of #1 seed and 2015 Master's Series winner: m0s! His chance at payback could deliver guaranteed entry into the annual Battle Royale match! Likewise; former Undisputed Champion The Great Genku will look to settle the score of his three-way title loss by qualifying against third-man: King Ken!

"The Predator" TonyTheTiger will be on the prowl, revisiting 2015 Master's Series opponent and long time rival CaTigeReptile. KFL foes and two of the big turnarounds of 2015 Mime and Knickxasawrrrr will test each other in qualifying. Big time T63 upstart SubScorpTile will look to continue his run, defending against UGP Battle Royal legend NovaStarr. PLUS: The Alliance & The Invasion will continue to clash when Shen_DuHBK confronts Invasion pinch hitter AcidicWonder.

Self-proclaimed "Voice of Reason" Damo will also compete against a yet to be determined opponent. The reason for the mystery is unclear, but with many names missing from the field, speculation can begin! mwgrant0 was a shock eliminator of Damo during Round 1 of the Grand Slam Launch and could be in line for a rematch. 2-time Battle Royale winner Ratt and 2012 winner Mimik could be looking to start their year after Hall of Fame Tournament omissions. Fellow Round 1 eliminations The_Purple_Bunny and VenoMark are also surprisingly nowhere to be seen!

Damo's opponent should be named Saturday, with an announcement of the full Pre-Show card.

Pre--Show 74: The Long Hard Road (January 17th, 2016):
- "The Redeemer" LordSkarlet versus m0s [Battle Royale Qualifier]
- The Great Genku versus King Ken [Battle Royale Qualifier]
- Mime versus Knickxasawrrrr [Battle Royale Qualifier]
- "Voice of Reason" Damo versus [Opponent To Be Determined] [Battle Royale Qualifier]
- NovaStarr versus "The Secret Weapon" SubScorpTile [Battle Royale Qualifier]
- "The Predator" TonyTheTiger versus "The Guardian" CaTigeReptile [Battle Royale Qualifier]
- "Italian Cyclone" Shen_DuHBK versus AcidicWonder [Battle Royale Qualifier]

Supercard 74 #1 Contender Announced

His success in Tournament 63: Grand Slam Launch 2016 took many by surprise, and has left some questioning the quality of the win amidst a raft of early upsets. Never the less - ElJobber is the first major tournament winner of the year, and that's grounds enough for officials to name him the #1 contender for the Undisputed Championship!

ElJobber will face reigning Undisputed Champion Hokey in his first title defense of 2016 at Supercard 74: Battle Royale! This year's annual incarnation takes place January 24, 2016.

It'll be a fresh match-up for Hokey, who had a memorable 2015 feuding in headlining matches with the likes of: Genku, DECEPTION, Mime, Baraka_MK & Onryo and CaTigeReptile. It will also break the streak of  status quo for the 40-fighter Battle Royale match!

ElJobber is one of only two fighters to have appeared in every Battle Royale match to date! He's a 2-time winner of the annual event, taking victory in 2011 and 2014. Hokey will also leave a Battle Royale record undefended as the winner of the most Battle Royale qualifying matches in history!

It's shaping up to be a big year of change! More match announcements are sure to come over the next two weeks as UGP Season gets into full swing. Stay tuned!

Supercard 74: Battle Royale (January 24th, 2016):
- ElJobber versus United: Hokey (c) [Undisputed Championship]
- 40-fighter Battle Royale

Friday Night Fights Returning in 2016!

After an ambiguous end to the Kombat Fight League in 2015 -- it can now officially be announced that Friday Night Fights will continue in 2016!

Though the KFL sub-league has officially been dissolved; the weekly gathering will continue to offer an outlet to fighters looking to break through to the Pre-Show and Supercard circuit, raise their rank standing, or simply pursue grudges and developing feuds! Speaking on behalf of the League Council, Mick explained, "Weekly KFL events did a tremendous job of introducing and elevating its members in incredible ways. By absorbing Friday Night Fights into the major league, that opportunity can now be offered to even more deserving fighters."

The first Friday Night Fights of 2016 will take place later this week - January 15th! Mick gave a preview of what can be expected: "The first Friday Night Fights of the new era will be very familiar. December's "Armageddon Month" created a lot of unresolved tensions in the KFL. Those fighters deserve a chance to work out their differences and I'll be personally watching as they do."

The watchful eye of the League Council will be an important one, and the first week could have high stakes for former KFL fighters: "I expect Friday Night Fights to develop a distinction from Pre-Show and Supercard events. Those are the big dance everybody wants to get to. Fridays will still feature some of the headlining stars of the league, but they're special attractions. I'm much more interested in the new names who will use this opportunity to reach for Supercard status."

Matches announced for Week 1 of the new Friday Night Fights include:

- CCShadow & Scott-Howell versus "Catch 22" Ironize & AcidicWonder
- NovaStarr versus Knickxasawrrrr
- "Lucifer's Ladder" UlcaTron & hydraslash versus "The Predator" TonyTheTiger
- "Pegaso" Zentile versus Murdoink
- "The Rocket" MKR versus nightbreed_16 versus Nephrite
- avenger45 versus Jironobou
- subzero776 versus zebraska

Each match stems from December events in the KFL, including: TonyTheTiger's blitzing of the field and both Corrupt members of Lucifer's Ladder; Knickxasawrrrr's hard fought victory over NovaStarr; Zentile's near-miss against Murdoink; and more!

Intriguingly, a Duo Division main event will pit KFL stalwarts CCShadow & Scott-Howell against incumbents from The Invasion "Catch 22" Ironize & AcidicWonder. It'll be a grudge match of sorts for Scott-Howell, who found himself surprisingly eliminated from Tournament 63's First Round by AcidicWonder! The first sign of the new changes coming to Friday Night Fights!

Weekly Rankings Recap - 1/10/16

Grand Slam Launch 2016 is in the books, and with the conclusion of the first 128-fighter tournament of the year comes the shaping of the new year ranks! Tournament winner ElJobber shoots to the top of the ranks, with the rest of the Top 4 reflecting the Semi Finalists.

The Great Arena League Top Ten:
#1 (+9) ElJobber [Tournament 63 Winner]
#2 (RE) Knickxasawrrrr [Tournament 63 Runner-Up]
#3 (new) Benjamin
#4 (RE) Statix
#5 (RE) "The Predator" TonyTheTiger
#6 (-5) United: Artanix
#7 (RE) United: Shoe
#8 (-2) Jammer2Omega
#9 (new) kingjolly
#10 (RE) The Great Genku

The Great Arena Duo Division Top Ten:
#1 (--) "The Greek Crisis" maxilos & proXade
#2 (--) Porygonix & Jammer2Omega
#3 (--) "The Corrupt Generation" Baraka_MK & Onryo
#4 (--) deadpool & MercWithMouth
#5 (--) Jerrod & MINION
#6 (--) "Lucifer's Ladder" UlcaTron & hydraslash
#7 (--) CCShadow & Scott-Howell
#8 (--) "The Service Krew" Damo & DeathScepter
#9 (--) Unknown265 & mwgrant0
#10 (--) "The New Pacific Connection" Statix & Banging

The Division 2 Under 5k Top Ten:
#1 (+7) Knickxasawrrrr [Tournament 63 Runner-Up]
#2 (new) Benjamin
#3 (+2) Jammer2Omega
#4 (new) kingjolly
#5 (RE) "The Apprentice" DeathScepter
#6 (-5) Corrupt Baraka_MK
#7 (RE) redman
#8 (new) Loopster
#9 (new) mwgrant0
#10 (new) Corrupt MINION

Injured List:
- kingjolly [vs ElJobber -- January 9, 2016]
- Bronzie [vs Hokey -- January 4, 2016]
- JUST_A_TARKATAN [vs Knickxasawrrrr - December 11, 2015]
- J1sy [vs VR-FIST -- November 29, 2015]
- "The Hitman" DECEPTION [vs Hokey -- November 22, 2015]

Tournament 63: Grand Slam Launch - Finals

A ripple of palpable unrest waved through The Great Arena ahead of the finals of the first Grand Slam Tournament of 2016. An unpredictable tournament full of early upsets and late inconsistencies had produced a set of Semi Finals that could only be described as - unusual.

It was a tale of two halves. Seed killer Statix backed up a tournament pedigree with big wins, setting up a heavyweight meeting with ElJobber in the second match. On the other side, two titans of the Division 2 ranks outlasted a bracket of tumbling uncertainty: Benjamin and Knickxasawrrrr.

Neither Semi Final disappointed. Benjamin took his opponent right down to the wire, matching Knickxasawrrrr blow for blow in an incredibly close fought match! On the other side, ElJobber was a little more comfortable, but still under fire in a heavyweight bout that could have very well gone Statix' was on another day!

As the final two met, the crowd knew exactly who they didn't want to win! ElJobber was the overwhelming statistical favourite in the Grand Final, but that only seemed to incense a cynical audience even further! He had left the Kombat Fight League obliterated in his wake at the close of 2015. Fighting in a class above Knickxasawrrrr, ElJobber left no doubt in this result -- decisive in his victory!

Long time rivals Ratt and Round 1 upset The_Purple_Bunny both called out the 2016 Grand Slam Launch winner, but ElJobber was nowhere to be seen! Content to bask in the glory of only his second Grand Slam Tournament win - ElJobber kept himself hidden. Is this a sign of things to come in 2016?

With the Grand Slam Launch in the record books, UGP Season officially gets under way! ElJobber's favourite event - the 40-fighter Battle Royale - is the next major stop on the tour: January 24th. Will this be his admission into the draw for a record third Battle Royale win? This is but one of many questions awaiting answers as we begin Season 2016!

Tournament 63: Grand Slam Launch - Semi Final Results:
1. Knickxasawrrrr just barely defeated Benjamin! [+1]
2. ElJobber defeated Statix. [+1]

Tournament 63: Grand Slam Launch - Grand Final Result:
1. ElJobber defeated Knickxasawrrrr in a comprehensive result! [+3]

The Tournament 63 Impact Players:
- Mime +MAX (R1), Genku +MAX (R1, R3), ElJobber +MAX (R1, R2, QF), Knickxasawrrrr +28 (R1), Hokey +18 (R1), Shoe +18 (R2), Chromatose +12 (R2), Banging +11 (R1), Rhyno +11 (R1), TonyTheTiger +9 (R1), Pink_Ranger +6 (R1), Jerrod +4 (R1), Baraka_MK +4 (R2), mwgrant0 +4 (R2), Artanix +4 (R3)

The Tournament 63 Shock Eliminations:
- The_Purple_Bunny (R1), Damo (R1), Scott-Howell (R1), Murdoink (R1), Ghostdragon (R1), VenoMark (R1), LordSkarlet (R1), Mime (R2), Hokey (R3), Banging (R3), CaTigeReptile (R3), m0s (R4), Genku (QF)

The Tournament 63 Casualties:
- Bronzie (R1), kingjolly (QF)

Tournament 63: Grand Slam Launch - Quarters

2015 Hall of Famer Ratt was in the arena to watch a surprising Quarter Finals unfold!

The stunner of the round was Knickxasawrrrr's manhandling of former Undisputed Champion The Great Genku! Even Ratt couldn't believe his eyes, just short of speechless when he noted, "Not good." Genku had dominated previous opponents, leading many to believe he was the frontrunner for a return to Grand Slam tournament form. Knickxasawrrrr now steps up to the plate, the stronger of two Division 2 upstarts making a play for the win!

Benjamin was the other competitor to exceeded all expectations with his convincing victory over The United's Shoe! At the close of 2015, Benjamin had already stepped up as a leading Division 2 contender, but with a berth into the Semi Finals he may have his sights set on an even bigger prize -- his first Grand Slam Tournament crown!

It had seemed Round 4 was all about shattering dreams, but the illusion of kingjolly as potential was destroyed in the worst possible way. ElJobber scored his third MAX Damage win over the tournament, riding a favourable draw to a fatal conclusion. kingjolly joins Bronzie, "The Hitman" DECEPTION, JUST_A_TARKATAN and J1sy on the injured list. Bronzie being the only other competitor to suffer -1up during Tournament 63.

In the final fight of the round, Statix did as he has many times before - delivering a strong performance to knock-off potential contenders TonyTheTiger. It was a high level match, but nothing special. Which, if history is any indication, is Statix's strength in tournament competition. The winner of ElJobber/Statix will likely enter the title fight as favourite, but in the Semis, Statix will be a questionable underdog.

Tournament 63: Grand Slam Launch - Quarter Final Results:
1. Benjamin defeated United: Shoe with a solid win. [+4]
2. Knickxasawrrrr defeated The Great Genku in a comprehensive win. [+3]
3. ElJobber defeated kingjolly in a fatal MAX Damage annihilation! [+MAX] [-1up]
4. Statix defeated "The Predator" TonyTheTiger. [+1]

The Tournament 63 Impact Players:
- Mime +MAX (R1), Genku +MAX (R1, R3), ElJobber +MAX (R1, R2, QF), Knickxasawrrrr +28 (R1), Hokey +18 (R1), Shoe +18 (R2), Chromatose +12 (R2), Banging +11 (R1), Rhyno +11 (R1), TonyTheTiger +9 (R1), Pink_Ranger +6 (R1), Jerrod +4 (R1), Baraka_MK +4 (R2), mwgrant0 +4 (R2), Artanix +4 (R3)

The Tournament 63 Shock Eliminations:
- The_Purple_Bunny (R1), Damo (R1), Scott-Howell (R1), Murdoink (R1), Ghostdragon (R1), VenoMark (R1), LordSkarlet (R1), Mime (R2), Hokey (R3), Banging (R3), CaTigeReptile (R3), m0s (R4), Genku (QF)

The Tournament 63 Casualties:
- Bronzie (R1), kingjolly (QF)

Tournament 63: Grand Slam Launch - Round 4

Depending on your perspective - it was either a round of stabilizing, or shattered dreams.

Several upstart competitors met their end in the Round of 16 as the stronger classes asserted their dominance with the finals in sight. kingjolly was the only stranger in paradise, fighting his way past redman in a stunning continuation of a dream run! kingjolly seems to be tapping into the desperation of vulnerability -- something mwgrant0 could no longer rely on in his match against an in-form Knickxasawrrrr.

The most heartbreaking loss of the round may have been Jammer2Omega's. The fan-favourite's rise was ended in a close fought, blockbuster encounter with arch-rival Benjamin! It was a similarly well matched encounter when #2 seed and 2015 Master's Series winner m0s met his end against old rival Statix! It wouldn't be surprising to see both of these bouts lead to something more in 2016!

The Great Genku emerged from Round 4 as the strongest favourite in competition. TonyTheTiger proved his predatory senses are as sharp as ever with an impressive win against dark horse contender Artanix. The United's Shoe carried the torch against fluke Undisputed Champion eliminator "The Apprentice" DeathScepter. Too noticeable to be under the radar was ElJobber, as well.

Tournament 63: Grand Slam Launch - Round 4:
1. United: Shoe d. "The Apprentice" DeathScepter [+1]
2. Benjamin d. Jammer2Omega [+1]
3. Knickxasawrrrr d. mwgrant0 [+2]
4. The Great Genku d. Corrupt MINION [+19]
5. kingjolly d. redman [+2]
6. ElJobber d. Loopster [+4]
7. "The Predator" TonyTheTiger d. United: Artanix [+1]
8. Statix d. m0s [#2] [+1]

The Tournament 63 Impact Players:
- Mime +MAX (R1), Genku +MAX (R1, R3), ElJobber +MAX (R1, R2), Knickxasawrrrr +28 (R1), Hokey +18 (R1), Shoe +18 (R2), Chromatose +12 (R2), Banging +11 (R1), Rhyno +11 (R1), TonyTheTiger +9 (R1), Pink_Ranger +6 (R1), Jerrod +4 (R1), Baraka_MK +4 (R2), mwgrant0 +4 (R2), Artanix +4 (R3)

The Tournament 63 Shock Eliminations:
- The_Purple_Bunny (R1), Damo (R1), Scott-Howell (R1), Murdoink (R1), Ghostdragon (R1), VenoMark (R1), LordSkarlet (R1), Mime (R2), Hokey (R3), Banging (R3), CaTigeReptile (R3), m0s (R4)

The Tournament 63 Casualties:
- Bronzie (R1)

Tournament 63: Grand Slam Launch - Round 3

Round 3 began with its most shocking moment -- the surprise elimination of Undisputed Champion Hokey! It obviously ends the hopeful back-to-back campaign of 2015's Summer Grand Slam winner, but also throws a spanner into the works of the championship picture. With no #1 contender named at this stage, could DeathScepter emerge from Tournament 63 an unlikely challenger?

The match of the round was Genku's stunning MAX Damage victory over "The Guardian" CaTigeReptile! Few could've predicted such a one-sided affair beforehand. It reaffirms the statement of intent made by Genku in 2015, but puts a dent in CTR's hopes of finally reaching for her first Undisputed Championship. Both will be names to watch heading into the Supercard season.

Jammer2Omega continued his rise with an impressive win against the statistically superior Banging. Still fighting with a defiant ferocity was mwgrant0, as well! kingjolly will be a surprise appearance in Round 4 after felling The_Hurricane. Fellow ICWW alums Statix and Loopster fared much better in Round 3. Statix has shown a tournament acumen in the past, winning the 2014 Mid-Year Grand Slam, and runner-up in both the 2014 & 2015 Summer Grand Slams. He'll pose a real threat to steadfast #2 seed m0s in the Fourth Round!

Tournament 63: Grand Slam Launch - Round 3 Results:
1. "The Apprentice" DeathScepter d. United: Hokey [#1] [+2]
2. United: Shoe d. Corrupt Baraka_MK [+1]
3. Benjamin d. Dolce [+1]
4. Jammer2Omega d. Banging [+2]
5. mwgrant0 d. SubMan799 [+1]
6. Knickxasawrrrr d. King Ken [+1]
7. The Great Genku d. "The Guardian" CaTigeReptile [+MAX]
8. Corrupt MINION d. GohanSon [+2]
9. redman d. Menas [+1]
10. kingjolly d. The_Hurricane [+1]
11. ElJobber d. nightbreed_16 [+7]
12. Loopster d. "Bad Bad" Leroy [+1]
13. United: Artanix d. Chromatose [+4]
14. "The Predator" TonyTheTiger d. Pink_Ranger [+1]
15. Statix d. NovaStarr [+1]
16. m0s [#2] d. Asesino [+3]

The Tournament 63 Impact Players:
- Mime +MAX (R1), Genku +MAX (R1, R3), ElJobber +MAX (R1, R2), Knickxasawrrrr +28 (R1), Hokey +18 (R1), Shoe +18 (R2), Chromatose +12 (R2), Banging +11 (R1), Rhyno +11 (R1), TonyTheTiger +9 (R1), Pink_Ranger +6 (R1), DeathScepter +2 (R2), Jerrod +4 (R1), Baraka_MK +4 (R2), mwgrant0 +4 (R2), Artanix +4 (R3)

The Tournament 63 Shock Eliminations:
- The_Purple_Bunny (R1), Damo (R1), Scott-Howell (R1), Murdoink (R1), Ghostdragon (R1), VenoMark (R1), LordSkarlet (R1), Mime (R2), Hokey (R3), Banging (R3), CaTigeReptile (R3)

The Tournament 63 Casualties:
- Bronzie (R1)

Tournament 63: Grand Slam Launch - Round 2

After a tumultuous First Round, Round 2 of Tournament 63 settled into a more expected rhythm. The only shock exit at this stage was Mime, who found himself coming up short against one of the rising favourites of 2015: Jammer2Omega! The other half of the "Unholy Alliance" had a better day, ElJobber reprising his role as "Mr. MAX Damage" with his second +30 domination.

The Invasion had a rough day at the office in Round 2. Their remaining ranks were wiped from the board with defeats handed to The_Rock, AcidicWonder, Ironize and Rhyno. The Alliance remained alive with The_Hurricane advancing.

Tournament 63: Grand Slam Launch - Round 2 Results:
1. United: Hokey [#1] d. "The Secret Weapon" SubScorpTile [+3]
2. "The Apprentice" DeathScepter d. Politics [+5]
3. United: Shoe d. BilboFett [+18]
4. Corrupt Baraka_MK d. Corrupt UlcaTron [+4]
5. Benjamin d. Jerrod [+1]
6. Dolce d. Corrupt hydraslash [+1]
7. Banging d. Piccolo [+4]
8. Jammer2Omega d. Mime [+1]
9. SubMan799 d. avenger45 [+1]
10. mwgrant0 d. The_Rock [+4]
11. Knickxasawrrrr d. deadly [+1]
12. King Ken d. AcidicWonder [+1]
13. The Great Genku d. proXade [+5]
14. "The Guardian" CaTigeReptile d. Sekktor [+2]
15. Corrupt MINION d. KittyKat [+1]
16. GohanSon d. IAmAce [+1]
17. redman d. JoelKatz [+1]
18. Menas d. Shinnokxz [+1]
19. The_Hurricane d. Methuselah6463 [+1]
20. kingjolly d. Ironize [+2]
21. nightbreed_16 d. Stealth-Ninja [+1]
22. ElJobber d. Torchia [+MAX]
23. Loopster d. DarknessDragon [+2]
24. "Bad Bad" Leroy d. Nephrite [+1]
25. Chromatose d. Rhyno [+12]
26. United: Artanix d. dibula [+2]
27. "The Predator" TonyTheTiger d. "The Rocket" MKR [+3]
28. Pink_Ranger d. Mark [+2]
29. Statix d. foahchon [+1]
30. NovaStarr d. Red_Spaniard [+1]
31. Asesino d. __-Standards-__ [+3]
32. m0s [#2] d. Maridany [+2]

The Tournament 63 Impact Players:
- Mime +MAX (R1), Genku +MAX (R1), ElJobber +MAX (R1, R2), Knickxasawrrrr +28 (R1), Hokey +18 (R1), Shoe +18 (R2), Chromatose +12 (R2), Banging +11 (R1), Rhyno +11 (R1), TonyTheTiger +9 (R1), Pink_Ranger +6 (R1), DeathScepter +2 (R2), Jerrod +4 (R1), Baraka_MK +4 (R2), mwgrant0 +4 (R2)

The Tournament 63 Shock Eliminations:
- The_Purple_Bunny (R1), Damo (R1), Scott-Howell (R1), Murdoink (R1), Ghostdragon (R1), VenoMark (R1), LordSkarlet (R1), Mime (R2)

The Tournament 63 Casualties:
- Bronzie (R1)

Tournament 63: Grand Slam Launch - Day 2

The hits kept coming during Day 2 of Tournament 63: Round 1! There were no fatal casualties, but the super heavyweight favourites were a study in extremes. ElJobber joined the impact players with a +MAX win, while VenoMark and "The Redeemer" LordSkarlet hit the losers list! As expected, the latter was a high quality affair between two bitter rivals. VenoMark - a more shocking exit at the hands of a cruel draw against his friend and partner.

Tournament 63: Round 1 - Day 2 Results:
33. redman d. Jason_Voorhees [+1]
34. JoelKatz d. Celeste [+1]
35. Shinnokxz d. Twiztid_Ninja [+1]
36. Menas d. J-Spit [+1]
37. The_Hurricane d. Porygonix [+2]
38. Methuselah6463 d. TheMetinPorta [+1]
39. kingjolly d. Murdoink [+2]
40. Ironize d. nav-gone [+2]
41. nightbreed_16 d. "Silent Assassin" Ghostdragon [+1]
42. Stealth-Ninja d. Moco [+2]
43. ElJobber d. Evolved [+MAX]
44. Torchia d. MercWithMouth [+1]
45. Loopster d. Philip94 [+1]
46. DarknessDragon d. Grayback [+1]
47. Nephrite d. irulegames1234 [+3]
48. "Bad Bad" Leroy d. Killswitch [+1]
49. Chromatose d. Kiara85 [+1]
50. Rhyno d. rxvt [+11]
51. dibula d. deadpool [+1]
52. United: Artanix d. Bee_07 [+2]
53. "The Predator" TonyTheTiger d. legoslayer10 [+9]
54. "The Rocket" MKR d. VenoMark [+2]
55. Mark d. fraysol [+3]
56. Pink_Ranger d. subzero776 [+6]
57. Statix d. Corrupt Onryo [+3]
58. foahchon d. McDaniel [+1]
59. Red_Spaniard d. Onimike [+3]
60. NovaStarr d. jack4813 [+1]
61. __-Standards-__ d. nif [+1]
62. Asesino d. WhiteRanger [+2]
63. Maridany d. "Italian Cyclone" Shen_DuHBK [+1]
64. m0s [#2] d. "The Redeemer" LordSkarlet [+1]

The Tournament 63 Impact Players:
- Mime +MAX (R1), Genku +MAX (R1), ElJobber +MAX (R1), Knickxasawrrrr +28 (R1), Hokey +18 (R1), Banging +11 (R1), Rhyno +11 (R1), TonyTheTiger +9 (R1), Shoe +8 (R1), Pink_Ranger +6 (R1), Jerrod +4 (R1), Piccolo +3 (R1), The_Rock +3 (R1), Nephrite +3 (R1), Mark +3 (R1), Statix +3 (R1), Red_Spaniard +3 (R1)

The Tournament 63 Shock Eliminations:
- The_Purple_Bunny (R1), Damo (R1), Scott-Howell (R1), Murdoink (R1), Ghostdragon (R1), VenoMark (R1), LordSkarlet (R1)

The Tournament 63 Casualties:
- Bronzie (R1)

Tournament 63: Grand Slam Launch - Day 1

Day one of Tournament 63 delivered some earth shattering bombshells as major names dropped out of the running! Suspicions were confirmed when Damo found himself stunned by an explosive performance from mwgrant0, while The_Purple_Bunny failed to connect against "The Secret Weapon" of SubScorpTile!

"The Guardian" CaTigeReptile fared much better, staying strong against Division 2 Champion Zentile - who upset her mere months ago for the KFL Championship! "American Dream" Scott-Howell wasn't so lucky, an unexpected casualty against The Invasion's AcidicWonder! His partner CCShadow was a less surprising loss, going down in a +28 demolition at the hands of 2015 Master's Series Runner-Up and old Duo rival: Knickxasawrrrr!

It was a big day for heavy hits! Surpassing Knickxasawrrrr to inflict MAX Damage was: Mime and The Great Genku. A particularly harsh initiation for shin - who made his competition debut! Also making a big impact was #1 seed and Undisputed Champion Hokey. His +18 dismantling officially put Bronzie on the injured list in the very first match! A hellacious start to 2016!

Tournament 63: Round 1 - Day 1 Results:
1. United: Hokey [#1] d. Bronzie [+18] [-1up]
2. "The Secret Weapon" SubScorpTile d. The_Purple_Bunny [+2]
3. Politics d. Coltess [+2]
4. "The Apprentice" DeathScepter d. giandavil [+1]
5. BilboFett d. Mojo6 [+1]
6. United: Shoe d. "The Prodigy" nface [+9]
7. Corrupt UlcaTron d. Unknown265 [+1]
8. Corrupt Baraka_MK d. tghuhyg19 [+1]
9. Benjamin d. ]{0MBAT [+1]
10. Jerrod d. xort [+4]
11. Corrupt hydraslash d. Mo2 [+1]
12. Dolce d. edge [+2]
13. Piccolo d. Mr.Pirat [+3]
14. Banging d. Liam [+11]
15. Jammer2Omega d. little-mac [+1]
16. Mime d. shin [+MAX]
17. avenger45 d. vaiisekk [+4]
18. SubMan799 d. "Big Johnny" Bofh [+1]
19. mwgrant0 d. "Voice of Reason" Damo [+1]
20. The_Rock d. maxilos [+3]
21. deadly d. VR-FIST [+1]
22. Knickxasawrrrr d. CCShadow [+28]
23. King Ken d. ShawnMichaels [+2]
24. AcidicWonder d. "American Dream" Scott-Howell [+1]
25. The Great Genku d. Reiko [+MAX]
26. proXade d. ErmackDaddy [+1]
27. Sekktor d. Jax [+2]
28. "The Guardian" CaTigeReptile d. "Pegaso" Zentile [+2]
29. KittyKat d. kororaa [+1]
30. Corrupt MINION d. NosajSamoht [+1]
31. GohanSon d. zebraska [+1]
32. IAmAce d. RomanK [+1]

The Tournament 63 Impact Players:
- Mime +MAX (R1), Genku +MAX (R1), Knickxasawrrrr +28 (R1), Hokey +18 (R1), Banging +11 (R1), Shoe +8 (R1), Jerrod +4 (R1), Piccolo +3 (R1), The_Rock +3 (R1), SubScorpTile +2 (R1), Politics +2 (R1), Dolce +2 (R1), Ken +2 (R1), Sekktor +2 (R1), CaTigeReptile +2 (R1)

The Tournament 63 Shock Eliminations:
- The_Purple_Bunny (R1), Damo (R1), Scott-Howell (R1)

The Tournament 63 Casualties:
- Bronzie (R1)

Tournament 63 Fist Round Preview

The 2016 Grand Slam Launch officially begins a new year of competition tomorrow!

The random tournament draw has already scattered 128 fighters across an elimination bracket, with two top seeds positioned at either end. The selected represent the best, brightest, or simply the most fortunate of the league, totalling a meagre 42.5% of all previously ranked combatants!

With opportunity available to so few; Hall of Fame competitors have been deliberately omitted from this year's launch event! This surprise decision hasn't diminished the quality of the field, however! 2016 marks the sixth year of The Great Arena and a bold step forward into a new era of rising stars. The draw has distributed many promising competitors evenly throughout. Most of the heavyweights won't meet until later rounds, but the fates have conspired to create some compelling match-ups in Round 1. Here are the headline makers:

1. United: Hokey [#1] versus Bronzie
The Undisputed Champion was a late entrant into the 2016 Grand Slam Launch, replacing m0s as the #1 seed upon admission. Hokey has very little to prove, entering Tournament 63 as both the top title holder and the reigning Grand Slam tournament champion! His 2015 Summer Grand Slam win may have been a long sought career achievement -- but the prestige of winning more Grand Slam titles was simply too much to ignore! No fighter has ever won all four Grand Slams in a single year. Could Hokey be the first? T63 will be a perfect test for the new champion, and one of the most talked about fighters of 2015!

2. The_Purple_Bunny versus "The Secret Weapon" SubScorpTile
The potential for The_Purple_Bunny to face the Undisputed Champion in Round 2 has all eyes on the top of the bracket! TPB won the event in 2014, and has two more Grand Slam titles to his name. He's one of the most decorated fighters in the league, but he also has one of the toughest draws with "The Secret Weapon" SubScorpTile pointed at him in the first round! They met in the Fourth Round last year, where TPB comprehensively took care of The Secret Weapon. SST has proven to be a dark horse in any fight, and with the motivation of past results, could be a real threat!

9. Benjamin versus ]{0MBAT
With a serious case for Division 2 Championship contention; Benjamin will enter Tournament 63 with a plan to go as deep as he can to firm up his chances for gold! ]{0MBAT will throw up a decent challenge in the First Round, but with his experience level plateauing during the year it will likely be Benjamin's to win or lose!

16. Mime versus shin
The 2016 Grand Slam Launch will mark the ranking debut for newcomer: shin. Fighting out of Malaysia; the little known combatant has been a part of the system for quite some time, but has made little to no impact. He'll jump directly into the fire with his first major match, facing seasoned veteran Mime in a bout that will be more about experience than winning!

19. mwgrant0 versus "Voice of Reason" Damo
As the leader of "The Service Krew", Damo dominated the Duo Division in 2015, but now looks to further his exploits as a solo competitor. On the surface, it seems as if the 2013 Grand Slam Launch winner has an easy start -- but beneath the unassuming surface of mwgrant0 lurks a secret! The Duo Division competitor has been largely protected by his partner Unknown265, but injuries sustained in a KFL Armageddon Month match with TonyTheTiger have him severely weakened. This match could be do or die for mwgrant0 -- and that could make him a serious danger to Damo's grand designs of a second tournament win!

23. ShawnMichaels versus King Ken
The "King of the World" Ken has been keeping some high profile company since his win in the all nations November tournament. He'll come back down to Earth in Round 1 when he faces the leader of The Invasion. The exact motives or goal behind the Invasion movement remains unknown, but you can bet winning a Grand Slam tournament and beating the King of the World would sit nicely!

25. Reiko versus The Great Genku
2015 proved to be a story of redemption for The Great Genku. In spite of his impressive five Grand Slam tournament wins -- including back-to-back 2011 & 2012 January crowns -- he was constantly foiled when it came to winning the big ones. That changed at All-Star Summer Showdown when he finally won the Undisputed Championship, but ended in December when he lost it. The tournament will begin his trek back to the gold, but how much did a big 2015 take out of him?

28. "The Guardian" CaTigeReptile versus "Pegaso" Zentile
Freshly minted Division 2 Champion Zentile has spent the year surprising everyone with big wins in tight situations! No victory came as a bigger shock than his KFL Championship win over 7-time champion:  CaTigeReptile! The gift of the random draw promises to produce an intriguing grudge match between the pair, as CTR chases the elusive dream of the Undisputed Championship. She has the confidence of winning the 2015 Grand Prix Warm-Up slam -- but never has the threat of an upset been more real! Better still: if Zentile wins, he could face former Div.2 champ Sekktor in Round 2!

37. Porygonix versus The_Hurricane
On the opposite side of The Invasion stands a force now called The Alliance. The_Hurricane stands as one of the figureheads of the firewall movement, which brings ICWW immortals back into conflict with old rivals. Hurricane has already shown himself to be a potent player next to tag team partner AlbertBeefcake, but at the end of 2015, Porygonix found new energy in forming a team with long time contemporary Jammer2Omega. These two could very well find themselves on opposite sides of a different war -- the 2016 race for the two-man gold! An intriguing match-up of two well matched foes.

54. "The Rocket" MKR versus VenoMark
You can always count on the random draw to produce some unusual match-ups. T63 has outdone itself with the First Round meeting of two old friends! Though they've partnered many times in the past; VenoMark spent the majority of  2015 flying solo as the most dominant KFL Champion in history! He's also shown in the past that he'll more than gladly play a cutthroat hand if beating his friends will take him one step closer to glory. With his coveted KFL gold back in his possession, VenoMark may be the most dangerous opponent MKR could face!

64. "The Redeemer" LordSkarlet versus m0s [#2]
The tournament draw has saved the best for last! History repeats as m0s finds himself with one of the toughest First Round matches of the field! Throughout 2015, they led opposing sides in a KFL war. LordSkarlet surprised many when he emerged the victor against Team m0s. It was a different story during the December Master's Series tournament, where LS faltered and m0s carried through to become the first fighter to win two Master's Series titles! Can he convert that success into his first Grand Slam tournament win? It won't be easy -- but it will be one helluva match to watch!