CES MMA President Openly Roots Against His Own Featherweight Champion

Classic Entertainment & Sports MMA's president Jimmy Burchfield is no stranger to controversy. This past February, while overseeing a boxing match under his CES Boxing banner, the 78-year-old was charged with misdemeanor simple assault after twice striking one of his own fighters in the ring.

While promoting his upcoming mixed martial arts event, CES 56, Burchfield went after another of his fighters, opting this time to offend with words over fists. Disappointed that his 40-year-old featherweight champion Bruce Boyington was not in attendance for a scheduled press conference, Burchfield openly rallied for challenger Dan Dubuque to win their May 31 bout.

Burchfield first heaped praise upon Dubuque, commending his fighting style and toughness. "He doesn't give up, he's a warrior, I love this kid, I really do," declared Burchfield.

Next, before reading Boyington's prepared statement, Burchfield addressed his champion's absence. "If he thought so much he would have got his butt over here and [faced you] like a man, but he isn't, okay. You know, I don't know how much of a man he is. I could get in trouble for saying that," Burchfield issued.

Stopping once again to share his personal thoughts, Burchfield turned to the 33-year-old Dubuque and confessed further, "I am going to be so damned happy to put that belt around you, I'm telling you, on May 31, I am going to be so happy, okay. That's gonna get me in trouble too."

The Rhode Island-based promotion will hold CES 56 in Hartford, Connecticut. Notable names on the card include John Gotti III, grandson of notorious mob boss John Gotti, and lightweight veteran Nick Newell. CES 56 will stream live on UFC Fight Pass.