On February 22nd, in Springfield, MO, featherweight prospect Ray Hayes (5-1) is set to face fellow contender David Evans (5-2) at Synergy FC 18. Hayes had a remarkable 2024, highlighted by highlight-reel finishes, a championship victory, and a valuable lesson learned. Now, driven by hunger, he aims to conquer 2025.
Hayes kicked off last year by seizing every opportunity and delivering back-to-back first-round submission finishes. He then stunned the crowd with a flying knee knockout over former Titan FC Bantamweight Champion Ira Lukowsky. His crowning achievement came at FAC 25, where he captured the FAC Featherweight Championship with another devastating knockout, this time against Daron McCyza. However, Hayes’ momentum was halted at Synergy FC 14, where he suffered a knockout loss to Alex Coover.
Despite the setback, Hayes remains unfazed. Reflecting on the defeat, he said, “In all reality, I just got caught. I got caught early, to where I couldn’t make the right adjustments.” He views this experience as a learning opportunity, citing Max Holloway’s recent knockout loss to Ilia Topuria as an example of how even the best can fall victim to the unpredictability of the fight game. “Ending the year on a loss—I don’t think anything could have happened differently. If I’d won, I don’t think I’d be this hungry. It just lit a fire for 2025.”
His next opponent, David Evans, presents one of his toughest tests to date. Although Evans has been inactive for a couple of years, he remains a well-respected figure in the regional MMA scene and is known for his work as an analyst with Anthony Pettis FC. Hayes understands the significance of this fight, recognizing that a victory over Evans could elevate his own status.
A fascinating aspect of Hayes’ game is the air of mystery that surrounds it. Despite racking up early knockouts and establishing himself as a feared finisher, there are still many unknowns about his skill set. Hayes sees this as an advantage. “I have close to 20 fights [including amateur bouts] and you don’t know if I can offensively wrestle, how good my kicking game is, or the length of my standup or my cardio. They don’t know the weapons I [have].”
Hayes expects Evans to test his grappling and wrestling, but he’s confident in his ability to keep the fight in his domain. He believes he has the tools and strength to avoid spending much time on the canvas if the fight goes there. When it comes to his approach, Hayes remains clear: “When I fight, I’m planning on finishing you. I’m not touching you to score points. I’m there to turn your lights off or make you do something stupid so I can choke you.”
While he acknowledges that he is prepared for a war, Hayes does not expect the fight to last long. “I don’t see this going past the first round,” he predicted. With his trademark aggression and finishing ability, he plans to make a statement once again at Synergy FC 18.
Synergy FC 18 will take place on Saturday, February 22, in Springfield, MO. Tickets are available at nitrotickets.com/synergyfc, and the event will stream live on MMAFUTURES.LIVE.
