May 31 EliteXC-CBS to feature seven preliminary fights

Originally posted by MMAjunkie.com Staff [mmajunkie-staff] on Apr 23, 2008 at 12:00 pm in

- News -

In addition to the five main-card fights that will air during EliteXC's May 31 debut on CBS, the event will feature seven fights on an un-aired preliminary card.

EliteXC teased the seven bouts -- for a total 12-bout fight card -- in the latest "EliteXC: PRIMETIME" event poster.

The show, headlined by a heavyweight bout between Kevin "Kimbo Slice" Ferguson and James Thompson, takes place at the Prudential Center in Newark, N.J. and airs from 9-11 p.m. ET on CBS. It's the first MMA event to air live on major U.S. network television.

None of the preliminary-card bouts has been announced.

EliteXC was never clear on whether or not the show would featured un-aired preliminary fights, so the news should come as a welcomed surprise to fans purchasing tickets for the event. Tickets are still available for the show and range from $15 for mezzanine seating to $1,000 for VIP ringside seats.

In addition to Ferguson vs. Thompson, "EliteXC: PRIMETIME" features a EliteXC middleweight title fight between Robbie Lawler and Scott Smith, as well as a bout between "American Gladiator" Gina Carano and Kaitlin Young. Also on the main card is a bout between Phil Baroni and Joey Villasenor, as well as Brett Rogers vs. Jon Murphy.

For the latest on "EliteXC: PRIMETIME," check out the MMA Rumors section of MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com).

(Touch of gloves: fiveouncesofpain.com)