Table of Contents
LFA CEO Ed Soares: The UFC Pipeline Master Helping Fighters Achieve Their Dreams
If you’ve been following MMA for any length of time, you’ve probably noticed how many UFC fighters seem to emerge from one particular organization: Legacy Fighting Alliance (LFA). There’s a reason for that, and his name is Ed Soares.
As CEO of LFA, Soares has become something of a kingmaker in the world of mixed martial arts. I’ve been watching his work for years, and what he’s built is nothing short of remarkable – a true developmental league that consistently funnels talent to the big show.
The LFA to UFC Pipeline: How Soares Built a Fighter Factory
When you think about it, what Soares has accomplished is pretty incredible. LFA has become the de facto minor league for the UFC, with a staggering number of fighters making the jump to the world’s premier MMA organization.
“Our goal has always been to develop fighters and give them the platform they need to reach the UFC,” Soares has mentioned repeatedly in interviews. And boy, has he delivered on that promise.
The numbers speak for themselves. Since LFA’s formation in 2017 (following the merger of Legacy FC and RFA), they’ve sent well over 150 fighters to the UFC. That’s not just impressive – it’s unprecedented.
Why LFA Fighters Make It to the UFC
So what makes LFA such a successful breeding ground for UFC talent? From what I’ve observed, it comes down to a few key factors:
- Professional production values that prepare fighters for the big-show atmosphere
- Smart matchmaking that challenges fighters without throwing them to the wolves
- Broadcast experience via UFC Fight Pass, giving fighters visibility
- Soares’ deep connections within the industry (he’s managed Anderson Silva and other legends)
It’s like Soares has created the perfect finishing school for UFC hopefuls.
The Fighter Development Strategy
What’s particularly fascinating about Soares’ approach is how he balances two competing interests: helping fighters reach the UFC while also maintaining a compelling product for LFA itself.
You might think losing your best talent would hurt the organization, but Soares has flipped this potential weakness into LFA’s greatest strength. The reputation as a UFC pipeline actually attracts better talent to LFA in the first place!
| Notable LFA Alumni in UFC | Current Division |
|---|---|
| Brandon Moreno | Flyweight (Former Champion) |
| Maycee Barber | Women’s Flyweight |
| Geoff Neal | Welterweight |
| Kevin Holland | Middleweight |
Beyond Just Being a Stepping Stone
What makes Soares’ work truly special isn’t just that he helps fighters reach the UFC – it’s how he does it.
LFA isn’t just throwing warm bodies into a cage. They’re developing complete fighters with the skills to actually succeed once they reach the big show. That’s the difference between being a mere stepping stone and being a true developmental organization.
And let’s be honest – how many former LFA fighters have we seen wash out of the UFC immediately? Not many. When Soares sends someone to the UFC, they’re typically ready to compete at that level.
The Business of Fighter Development
Have you ever wondered if this approach is actually good business? It might seem counterintuitive to constantly lose your top talent, but Soares has created a sustainable model.
By establishing LFA as the premier UFC feeder league, he ensures:
- Top prospects want to sign with LFA specifically
- Fans tune in to watch “future UFC stars”
- The UFC relationship provides stability and opportunities
It’s a win-win-win scenario for the fighters, the UFC, and LFA itself. That’s some serious business savvy from Soares.
What’s Next for Soares and LFA?
With such a successful track record, you might wonder what’s next for Soares and his fighter development machine. From what industry insiders suggest, LFA is looking to expand its footprint both domestically and internationally.
The organization has already held events in Brazil and other markets, potentially establishing regional pipelines to the UFC from different parts of the world.
Given the UFC’s continued global expansion, this strategy makes perfect sense. Soares is positioning LFA to be the worldwide farm system for MMA’s major league.
The Soares Effect: Beyond Just Matchmaking
What shouldn’t be overlooked in this whole equation is Soares himself. His background as a manager and his relationships throughout the industry give LFA fighters an edge that competitors simply can’t match.
When Soares calls UFC matchmakers about a prospect, they listen. That kind of access is invaluable and often makes the difference between getting the call-up or remaining on the regional scene.
I’ve spoken with several fighters who credit Soares personally with helping navigate their path to the UFC. That hands-on approach sets LFA apart from other organizations.
Final Thoughts: The Unsung Hero of MMA Development
Next time you’re watching UFC and see a fighter announced as “coming from LFA,” remember Ed Soares. He’s the man behind the curtain, quietly building the most effective talent development system in mixed martial arts.
For fighters with UFC dreams, the message is clear: LFA might just be your best path forward. And with Soares at the helm, that pipeline shows no signs of slowing down.
What do you think about LFA’s role in developing UFC talent? Have you followed any fighters from their LFA days to UFC success? Drop a comment below – I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Source: LFA News
