The growth of combat sports in Ecuador faces various challenges, such as power outages and sometimes a lack of adequate infrastructure. Despite these obstacles, the C.E.O of Liga de Fuego, Pancho Bajaña, is determined to take Combat Sports in the Country to a new level. With great enthusiasm, he prepares for one of the most electrifying events in the field of martial arts: League on Fire returns with its 8va Edición! This event will be held on Saturday, October 19, 2024 at El Gimnasio Corporal Nexus in Guayaquil and promises to be an unforgettable day full of continuous action, with more than 60+ intense Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), kickboxing and Muay Thai Combats.
For combat sports fans, this is a unique opportunity to see some of the best athletes from Ecuador and beyond fighting in the ring. The event will be broadcast by Diblu TV, an online sports streaming service in Guayaquil. When I asked Pancho Bajaña what this event represents for Combat sports in Ecuador, he responded:
“This event represents an opportunity to demonstrate that, despite adversity, the fighting spirit and passion of the athletes shine brighter.”
Their commitment and enthusiasm are a reflection of the potential that these sports have in the country.
Location: Corporal Nexus Gym, Vía Narcisa de Jesús, Guayaquil, Ecuador
Time: 9:00 AM
Date: Saturday, October 19th, 2024
Lineup of Fighters
The upcoming Liga de Fuego 8va Edición promises to be a thrilling display of Ecuadorian combat sports talent, featuring MMA, Muay Thai, and kickboxing bouts that will light up the arena this Saturday, October 19th. The event will kick off with early morning weigh-ins and transition into a full day of adrenaline-fueled matchups. Among the most highly anticipated bouts is the showdown between Aaron Giler and Luis “Lusho” Barrera. With both fighters eager to prove themselves in the cage, this matchup has fight fans buzzing with excitement. Barrera, a local hero from Guayaquil, has shown his prowess in previous fights, while Giler, hailing from Quito, remains undefeated in his amateur MMA career.
Luis Barrera has built a reputation as a tough and skilled competitor, securing several victories in his recent fights. Known for his ground game and submission skills, Barrera’s victories have come through a mix of rear-naked chokes and guillotine submissions, showcasing his versatility. His most recent win came via TKO in February 2024 at the Troncal Fight League, adding to an impressive string of victories. Barrera’s fighting style is methodical, and he’ll be looking to add another win to his record, especially on home turf in Guayaquil.
On the other side of the cage is Aaron Giler, a Heavyweight out of Quito, who comes into this fight with an undefeated amateur record of 2-0. Giler’s fighting style is aggressive, often overpowering his opponents with strikes. His most recent fight in April 2023 saw him secure a unanimous decision victory, and he’s eager to keep his winning streak alive. Fans are eager to see how Giler’s raw power matches up against Barrera’s technical prowess, making this one of the most highly anticipated fights of the night.
However, the path to this Liga de Fuego event hasn’t been without its hurdles. Originally scheduled for October 12th, the event was delayed due to Ecuador’s ongoing power crisis. Widespread blackouts, lasting up to 10 hours a day, have disrupted daily life across the country, straining the economy and creating logistical challenges for the event organizers. The crisis, caused by underinvestment in the country’s energy infrastructure, has added an extra layer of tension to the proceedings, with fans hoping the lights stay on long enough for the fights to unfold.
Despite the challenges, the spirit of Ecuadorian combat sports remains unbroken. Liga de Fuego not only offers an escape from the country’s ongoing struggles but also serves as a stage where fighters like Barrera and Giler can rise above the difficulties and showcase their talent. As fans gather this Saturday, they’ll witness not just a series of fights, but stories of perseverance and determination, reflecting the resilience of both the fighters and the nation as a whole.
Ecuador’s Thriving Combat Sports Scene
Guayaquil, Ecuador’s largest city, has long been a hub for Combat Sports, hosting some of the biggest events in the region. Liga de Fuego has grown into a marquee event for the local and regional fight community, thanks in part to its ability to draw talent from across Ecuador and neighboring countries like Peru and Venezuela.
Francisco “Pancho” Bajaña, head coach of Escuela de Alto Rendimiento 8 Armas Team, a Muay Thai black belt, and the promoter of the upcoming event, shared his excitement about what’s in store.
“We have 60 to 70 matches lined up featuring local Ecuadorian athletes and fighters from neighboring countries,”
Pancho said in a phone interview with Fajador.co. “It’s all about fostering the growth and passion for combat sports here—MMA, Muay Thai, K1—everything.
” The event promises to be a major platform for rising talent, driving the love for combat sports in the region.“
The Liga de Fuego is more than just a series of fights; it’s a celebration of Ecuadorian Athleticism and Sportsmanship, a place where fighters from different backgrounds and disciplines can showcase their skills. This event is a testament to the growing popularity of combat sports in Ecuador and Latin America as a whole, with MMA, kickboxing, and Muay Thai continuing to gain momentum in the region.
Fighters from the Top Martial Arts Academies will be competing, hoping to walk away with one of the coveted Liga de Fuego Championship Belts. These belts are not just trophies; they represent the warrior spirit and hard work that each fighter brings to the ring. Alongside the belts, winners will also be awarded medals and exclusive gym memberships, which serve as additional incentives for these warriors to push beyond their limits.
Liga De Fuego: A Family-Friendly Event
While Liga de Fuego is known for its fierce competition, it’s also a family-friendly event. The organizers have made sure that everyone, from the youngest fans to the most seasoned fight veterans, will have something to enjoy. With entertainment and activities designed for all ages, it’s a great opportunity for families to come together and experience the excitement of combat sports firsthand.
For those who live in Guayaquil, this is more than just a sports event. It’s part of the city’s culture, reflecting its deep connection to athletic excellence. Guayaquil is recognized as part of the Red de Ciudades Deportivas de Latino América (Sports Cities Network of America), a testament to the city’s dedication to promoting physical activity and sportsmanship at every level.
The Spirit of Liga De Fuego
Liga de Fuego’s motto is clear: It’s about heart, determination, and the warrior spirit. This year’s edition promises to deliver all that and more. The fighters stepping into the ring are not just competing for titles; they are fighting to represent their cities, their countries, and themselves. It’s an event that showcases not just physical strength, but the dedication and sacrifice that goes into being a fighter.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of combat sports or someone just looking for a thrilling way to spend your Saturday, Liga de Fuego 8va Edición has something for everyone. From MMA to kickboxing and Muay Thai, this event promises non-stop action from start to finish.
So grab your tickets, mark your calendars, and get ready to witness some of the best combat athletes Ecuador has to offer. It’s time for the fighters to step into the ring and ignite the flame of competition. Don’t miss out—See you this Saturday in Guayaquil!
