CageZilla Fighting Championship is the DC Metro area’s longest running and most successful Mixed Martial Arts promotion. Featuring the area’s top Mixed Martial Artists and complimented with unparalleled light, sound and video production by sister company, Wylde Style Productions, CageZilla continues to set itself apart. Founded in 2007 as Operation Octagon and later renaming to CageZilla Fighting Championship, CageZilla has entertained packed houses at every event since its first one and plans to continue that trend into the future. We are proud to have dozens of alumni that have fought in the World’s top MMA promotions including the UFC and ONE FC. Come see the stars of tomorrow today at an upcoming CageZilla event!
2024 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES
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- 2024 INDUCTEES
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- 2024 HONOREES
HALL OF FAME CATEGORIES
CHAMPIONS ERA:
This category recognizes contemporary fighters who have significantly contributed to the growth of CageZilla Fighting Championship (formerly known as Operation Octagon and OO Fights) and MMA in the Mid-Atlantic region. These athletes stand out due to their remarkable records with us, the attention they’ve garnered for our promotion, memorable performances, and/or their continued success in professional MMA, including the UFC. Fighters in this category began their MMA careers with their first amateur fight in 2010 or later, and may have competed exclusively in CageZilla or its predecessor events, OO Fights or Operation Octagon.
LEGENDS ERA:
This category honors the original group of fighters who helped lay the foundation for CageZilla Fighting Championship and the growth of MMA in the Mid-Atlantic. These fighters made an impact through their exceptional records, the recognition they brought to the promotion, unforgettable bouts, and their ongoing success in professional MMA. All individuals in this category began their amateur MMA journey in 2009 or earlier. While some may no longer compete actively, many continue to contribute to the sport as coaches, shaping the next generation of MMA athletes.
THE ARCHITECTS:
This category celebrates those who have been instrumental in building and supporting CageZilla Fighting Championship and MMA in the Mid-Atlantic, in roles outside the cage. This includes coaches, matchmakers, promoters, investors, staff, media and others who have played a key part in the growth and success of the promotion.
THE ARTURO SYLMAR FOUNDER’S AWARD:
Named after Arturo “Art” Sylmar, the founder of Operation Octagon and Thai Championship Boxing, and the visionary who helped transition to CageZilla Fighting Championship, this award honors his profound influence on the promotion and MMA in the Mid-Atlantic region. As a former partner and mentor to current owner Jeff Salisbury, Arturo’s innovative ideas and leadership helped shape CageZilla into the largest and longest-running MMA promotion in the DC Metro Area. A dedicated Air Force veteran and retired police captain, his positive impact extends beyond the MMA community to countless fighters, coaches, and fans. Recipients of this award exemplify the same commitment to regional MMA, leadership, and community service that Art demonstrated and continues to demonstrated to this day.
THE JAMES E. & SHELBY L. SALISBURY PERSON OF THE YEAR AWARD:
This award is dedicated to James E. and Shelby L. Salisbury, parents of current CageZilla owner Jeff Salisbury, in recognition of their selfless dedication to their family and the youth they mentored over the years. Through coaching and guidance, they instilled strong values in their children and the many athletes they coached. This award is presented to individuals who embody the Salisbury legacy by helping young people grow into good citizens through sports, mentorship, and coaching.