Brown vs. Lykes Delivers Fireworks at XFA 01, Earns Fight of the Night Honors

Crossville, TN — In what turned out to be a barnburner at the National Guard Armory, Crossville MMA’s Jared Brown (2-2) earned a hard-fought decision victory over Knoxville Martial Arts Academy’s Elijah Lykes (0-1 kickboxing, 0-1 MMA) in a back-and-forth amateur kickboxing showdown that was awarded Fight of the Night honors at XFA 01.

The bout was part of Xtreme Fighting Alliance's third event in Crossville, but its first ever inside the historic walls of the National Guard Armory—a new venue that proved to be the perfect setting for one of the most exciting amateur matchups of the evening.

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Brown, who made his amateur kickboxing debut in June 2024, entered the contest with a 1-2 record and plenty to prove. After dropping his first two outings by decision, he broke through with his first win at XFA Live 01 in Cookeville in November 2024. On Saturday night, he continued that upward trajectory.

Across three electric rounds, both fighters brought relentless pace and heart. Brown used calculated pressure, improved combinations, and foot work to earn the judges’ nod, while Lykes—making his kickboxing debut after a previous MMA loss—showcased grit, athleticism, and striking potential that belied his inexperience.

Lykes, though disappointed with the result, drew praise from fans and coaches alike for stepping into unfamiliar territory and giving a crowd-pleasing performance.

With the bout being awarded Fight of the Night, both men solidified their reputations as game competitors and rising names to watch in the regional scene.

XFA’s return to Crossville and debut at the National Guard Armory marked another milestone in the promotion’s rapid growth.  With an enthusiastic crowd and a stacked card, XFA 01 proved once again why the promotion has become a staple for fight fans in Tennessee.

Stay tuned for upcoming announcements on future events and athlete matchups through all of the XFA social media pages and at www.officialxfa.com