Misfits 22 Breakdown: A Dad’s Take on the Chaos

Let me make one thing clear: this is my first time writing about a Misfits Boxing card, and I wouldn’t exactly describe myself as a fan of the shows. But my beautiful daughter Isla is heading to Manchester for Misfits 22 with her mates, so I’ve got a ready-made excuse to dive into this madness. I’m breaking down the three main card fights like I’m chatting with my pals at the pub after a few pints (I don’t even drink). Serious writing’s taking a day off, so strap in!

Misfits MMA World Title: Dillon Danis vs. Warren Spencer

You’ve got to admire Dillon Danis’ sheer audacity. The guy’s desperate to be seen as a legit MMA fighter, and he’s got skills—on the mat. As a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, he’s a wizard, but his stand-up striking? Worse than your nan throwing a punch. He’s more likely to knock someone out with his social media rants than his fists.

Luckily for Danis, his opponent, Warren Spencer, is greener than a lime. This is Spencer’s first MMA fight—ever. He’s had two “pro” boxing matches, but the guy’s a YouTuber, not a fighter. Respect for stepping into the octagon, but once Danis drags him to the ground, Spencer’s tapping faster than I polish off a Big Mac. It’ll be quick, maybe even fun while it lasts. I’ll tune in for the chaos.

Interim Misfits Middleweight Title: Tony Ferguson vs. Salt Papi

Tony Ferguson’s a name every MMA fan knows. The guy’s a legend, once inches from UFC gold. But lately? He’s been on a skid nobody wants—eight straight losses before the UFC cut him loose. I’m curious to see how he handles a boxing ring, especially since that’s the only place his opponent, Salt Papi, has a prayer. If this were MMA rules, Salt Papi wouldn’t walk out alive. Boxing evens the odds.

I don’t know much about Salt Papi, but word is he’s one of Misfits’ more legit boxers skill-wise. Over six rounds, I wouldn’t be shocked if he gets his hand raised. Knocking out Ferguson? Nah. The last guy to do that was Michael Chandler with a brutal head kick, and Justin Gaethje was the last to finish him with fists. Salt Papi ain’t them. Still, this one’s got entertainment written all over it. I’m here for it.

Main Event: Darren Till vs. Luke Rockhold – Misfits Bridgerweight Title

I almost feel guilty saying this, but I’m hyped for this main event. Two ex-UFC stars cashing in to headline a Misfits card? Sign me up. No octagon here—it’s straight-up boxing—but I’m calling the winner now.

Darren Till, the mouthy Scouser, rubs some folks the wrong way, but I like him. He backs up his talk and doesn’t care who he pisses off. Till was once a UFC superstar in the making, but weight cuts and off-cage drama derailed him. Losses piled up, and the UFC let him go. Don’t sleep on him, though—he can bang. In his boxing career, he’s 3-0 and rolling.

Luke Rockhold? Brash, good-looking American who once held UFC gold. Then Michael Bisping smashed his reign with a brutal knockout. In his prime, Rockhold had talent for days, but now? He’s chasing paychecks and trying to keep his model looks intact. When things get tough, he checks out. I expect the same this Saturday.

Darren Till takes this, and it won’t go the distance. Bet on it.

Also on the card:

Enjoy the violence, fight fans! Isla, don’t drink to much 😁

Phil

Phillip Dean

Phillip Dean is a seasoned combat sports journalist from England, with over 27 years of ringside experience. Phillip delivers engaging, in-depth reporting on the world of combat sports.