Phoenix, AZ – August 16, 2025: The stage is set at the iconic Celebrity Theatre in Phoenix for an epic heavyweight showdown that has fight fans buzzing. RUF 64’s main event brings together a true legend of the cage and a surging powerhouse in a cross-generational battle for the ages. In one corner stands 51-year-old Tony “Kryptonite” Lopez, a veteran warhorse with nearly 100 fights to his name. In the other, Tyrell Fortune, 35, a ferociously athletic former Bellator star hungry to prove himself once again on the road back to the big leagues. This isn’t just any fight – it’s a Clash of Titans that will see experience and grit collide with youth and explosive talent. With a championship title on the line, the stakes could not be higher. The atmosphere on August 16 is sure to be electric, as RUF MMA delivers a night of excitement that will have Arizona fight fans on the edge of their seats.
Tony “Kryptonite” Lopez: A Legendary Career
Tony Lopez is a two-decade veteran of MMA who has seen and done it all. Holder of an astounding 65 career victories in the cage, Lopez made history by becoming a simultaneous two-division King of the Cage champion — reigning as both heavyweight and light heavyweight king during a remarkable 16-fight win streak.
Over his storied career, “Kryptonite” has tested himself against a who’s who of competition. He’s earned victories over UFC-tested fighters like Kyle Kingsbury and Joey Beltran, and has gone toe-to-toe with names like Ricco Rodriguez and Gilbert Yvel. From the WEC to Bellator and beyond, Lopez has proven that no stage is too big for him.
Now entering his 99th professional fight, Tony Lopez remains as dangerous and motivated as ever. A win at RUF 64 would further cement his legacy as an ageless gladiator who continues to defy expectations.
Tyrell Fortune: The Rising Powerhouse
If Lopez represents enduring legacy, Tyrell Fortune embodies the new breed of heavyweight phenom. A two-time national wrestling champion and NCAA Division II Wrestler of the Year, Fortune brought elite grappling into the cage and immediately made an impact.
With 15 wins and 9 finishes, Fortune bulldozed his way through Bellator’s heavyweight division, earning signature wins over names like Matt Mitrione, Said Sowma, and Jack May. He then made his way to the PFL, where he continued to impress with dominant performances and a renewed hunger to reach the top.
Now based in Arizona and riding momentum from a recent KO victory, Fortune arrives at RUF 64 laser-focused. A win here would add a respected name to his résumé and place him on a path back to the spotlight — this time, as the RUF Heavyweight Champion.
Legacy vs. Ambition: What’s at Stake
This isn’t just a main event — it’s a meeting of generations. For Lopez, it’s a shot at capping off his legendary career with another title. For Fortune, it’s a stepping stone toward a second act in his already impressive journey.
The vacant RUF Heavyweight Title adds another layer to this fight. For the promotion, this matchup is a statement: RUF MMA is bringing world-class talent to the cage and delivering unforgettable moments.
It’s veteran savvy vs. explosive youth. Experience vs. ambition. A fight that can shape the trajectory of both careers — and RUF MMA as a whole.
Get Your Tickets or Stream Live
Fight fans, circle Saturday, August 16, 2025 on your calendars. RUF 64 will take place at the Celebrity Theatre in Phoenix, AZ, with the first fight kicking off at 7:00 PM (doors open at 5:00 PM).
Can’t make it in person? Catch every round via Pay-Per-View through our streaming partner. Whether you’re cageside or couchside, this is one night you don’t want to miss.
Gather your crew, pick your fighter, and get ready — Lopez vs. Fortune is coming, and it’s going to be legendary.