When Cage Warriors opened voting for its 2024 End of Year Awards in November, the MMA world took notice—not because it was another annual ceremony, but because this year’s Harry Hardwick vs. Luke Riley vs. Mason Jones vs. James Power battle for Fighter of the Year felt like a snapshot of European MMA’s evolution. Four fighters. Four wildly different stories. One trophy. And fans aren’t just voting—they’re arguing.
The Champion’s Climb: Harry Hardwick’s Quiet Dominance
Hardwick didn’t roar to the top—he walked there. The 28-year-old English featherweight claimed the title in May by outpointing Orlando Wilson Prins in a tactical masterclass. But it was his November defense against Brazil’s Keweny Lopez at CW 181 in Manchester that sealed his legacy. Described by commentators as “a classic,” the bout lasted five rounds of relentless pressure, clinch work, and counter-striking that left Lopez visibly drained. What makes Hardwick’s run remarkable isn’t just the wins—it’s the context. He spent years watching his younger brother, George, dominate the lightweight division before finally stepping into his own spotlight. Now, he’s the last man standing at 145 pounds.The Unbeaten Machine: Luke Riley’s Perfect Record
Riley, 25, is the only fighter in this group who’s never tasted defeat. And he didn’t just stay undefeated in 2024—he made sure everyone knew it. His 10-0 record includes a brutal knockout of Brazilian prospect Alexandre Junior, a punch so clean it’s being called a “KO of the Year contender.” He followed that with a gritty decision win over American John De Jesus. Riley won the 2023 Fighter of the Year award with 41.6% of the vote. This year? He’s not just defending his crown—he’s trying to make history as the first back-to-back winner since the awards began. “I’m not here to be popular,” he told MMA Daily in October. “I’m here to be the best. And if fans notice that, great.”The Veteran’s Legacy: Mason Jones’ Historic Night in Manchester
Mason Jones isn’t new to Cage Warriors. He’s a former double champion, a veteran who’s been through wars in the cage and the spotlight. But 2024 was his redemption arc. First, he traveled to the U.S. and dismantled Bellator veteran Brice Logan in a performance that stunned American fans. Then came CW 175 in Manchester—a fight against Michael Pagani that fans are still replaying on social media. The bout ended in a third-round submission that had the crowd on its feet. “That’s the kind of fight you tell your grandkids about,” said longtime promoter Sean O’Connell. Jones didn’t just win—he reminded everyone why Cage Warriors built its reputation on fighters who fight with heart, not just highlight reels.The Fan Favorite: James Power’s Wild Ride
James Power didn’t need to win every fight cleanly—he just needed to make them unforgettable. His three wins in 2024 were all fireworks. First, a chaotic, bloody brawl with Poland’s Daniel Kolasiński at CW 172 that had fans screaming for a rematch before the bell even rang. Then, a lightning-fast KO of Dumitru Girlean at CW 181, where Power landed a spinning back fist that sent Girlean crashing to the canvas like a felled tree. Power didn’t just win fights—he created moments. And in a sport where charisma matters as much as technique, he’s become the people’s champion. “I don’t train for trophies,” he said post-fight. “I train for the roar. And last night, the whole arena screamed my name.”
Why This Matters Beyond the Trophy
These aren’t just awards. They’re milestones. Cage Warriors has long been the pipeline to the UFC for European talent. A Fighter of the Year title here doesn’t just mean bragging rights—it means contracts, sponsorships, and global exposure. Hardwick’s title defense could land him a UFC call-up. Riley’s perfect record makes him a marketing dream. Jones’ legacy elevates the promotion’s credibility. And Power? He’s proof that fan connection can be as valuable as a championship belt.What’s Next?
Voting closes December 15. Winners will be announced at the official awards ceremony in early January, likely streamed live from London. But even before then, the ripple effects are clear: Cage Warriors’ 2024 events—CW 172, CW 175, and CW 181—have set a new bar for European MMA. The Breakthrough Fighter category is already generating buzz around rising stars like 23-year-old Shirzad Qadrian, whose potential is being whispered in locker rooms across the continent. One thing’s certain: 2025 won’t be about who’s next. It’ll be about who’s already here.Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the four nominees for Cage Warriors Fighter of the Year 2024?
The four nominees are Harry Hardwick (featherweight champion), Luke Riley (10-0 undefeated record), Mason Jones (veteran former double champion), and James Power (fan favorite with three explosive wins). All four fought in key 2024 events including CW 172, CW 175, and CW 181, with each delivering performances that defined the year in European MMA.
How does winning Fighter of the Year impact a fighter’s career?
Winning this award often leads to increased media exposure, sponsorship deals, and UFC scouting attention. Past winners like Paddy Pimblett and Arnold Allen used the recognition as a springboard to global stardom. For fighters like Hardwick and Riley, it could mean a UFC contract in 2025. For Power, it solidifies his status as a marketable star, even without a title.
Where were the key 2024 Cage Warriors events held?
Cage Warriors held 12 events in 2024, with major shows at CW 172 in Dublin, CW 175 in Manchester, and CW 181 back in Manchester. These venues are central to the promotion’s identity, blending UK fanbases with international talent. Manchester, in particular, has become a hotspot for high-stakes fights and emotional moments, as seen in Jones’ and Power’s standout bouts.
Why is Luke Riley considered the favorite to win again?
Riley is the only nominee with a perfect 10-0 record in 2024 and the only one to have previously won the award, securing 41.6% of votes in 2023. His knockout of Alexandre Junior was widely rated among the year’s top finishes. His consistency, marketability, and undefeated status make him the logical favorite—even if fans love the drama of Power or the legacy of Jones.
What other categories are part of the Cage Warriors 2024 Awards?
In addition to Fighter of the Year, the awards include Fight of the Year (likely between Hardwick vs. Lopez or Power vs. Kolasiński), Breakthrough Fighter (with Shirzad Qadrian as a dark horse), and possibly Knockout of the Year. The organization also honors coaches and promotional contributions, but the Fighter of the Year remains the most prestigious.
When will the winners be announced?
Voting closes on December 15, 2024. Winners will be revealed at a live ceremony in early January 2025, likely streamed from London. The event will also feature highlight reels, fighter interviews, and a special tribute to retiring veterans—making it more than just an awards show, but a celebration of European MMA’s growth.
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