Step into the electrifying world of SBC Fighters, where sweaty MMA showdowns meet sizzling romance! Lori Foster’s SBC Fighters series blends the raw intensity of Mixed Martial Arts with heartfelt love stories, crafting a unique saga that hooks both sports fans and romance enthusiasts. Since its debut in 2007, this series has redefined MMA fighters as complex, respectful heroes, shattering stereotypes with every punch and kiss.
Centered around the Supreme Battle Challenge (SBC), a fictional MMA organization, the series follows rugged fighters who battle in the cage and wrestle with their hearts. With steamy chemistry, authentic fight scenes, and a cast of flawed yet lovable characters, SBC Fighters delivers a knockout combo of passion and action.
How SBC Fighters Began
Lori Foster, a New York Times bestselling romance author, launched the SBC Fighters series in 2007 with Causing Havoc. Inspired by the growing popularity of MMA, Foster saw an opportunity to challenge the sport’s negative stereotypes. At the time, MMA fighters were often portrayed as volatile brutes, but Foster envisioned them as disciplined, protective alpha males with hearts of gold. Her goal was to weave authentic MMA culture into compelling love stories, balancing grit with tenderness. Drawing on her knack for crafting relatable characters, she created a series that resonated with readers craving fresh, dynamic romance.
The Heart of SBC Fighters
The SBC Fighters series spans seven books, each spotlighting a different fighter and their romantic journey. Key titles include Causing Havoc (2007), which kicks off with Dean 'Havoc' Conor, a brooding fighter reconnecting with his estranged sisters while falling for Eve, his sister’s friend. Simon Says (2007) follows Simon 'Sublime' Evans, a disciplined fighter navigating love with Dakota, a woman with a troubled past. Hard to Handle (2008) centers on Harley Handleman, whose championship dreams are tested by his growing bond with life-coach Anastasia. Back in Black (2010), the fifth book, explores dual romances, including SBC president Drew Black’s fiery connection with PR expert Gillian.
Themes of redemption, trust, and personal growth pulse through the series. Foster’s fighters are often wounded—emotionally or physically—yet find strength through love. The MMA setting isn’t just a backdrop; it’s integral to the characters’ identities, with training and fights driving the drama. The series’ style is fast-paced and conversational, blending humor, suspense, and steamy encounters. Secondary romances and recurring characters create a tight-knit SBC community, making each book feel like a reunion.
Why SBC Fighters Resonates
SBC Fighters carved a niche in contemporary romance by elevating MMA from a niche sport to a vibrant storytelling canvas. Foster’s respectful portrayal of fighters challenged cultural biases, earning praise from fans and critics. The series’ blend of high-stakes action and emotional depth appeals to readers who crave more than traditional romance tropes. Its lasting appeal lies in its relatable characters—fighters who are tough yet tender, and heroines who are strong and independent. Though the series concluded with Tails of Love in 2009, its influence persists, inspiring later sports romance authors.
- About SBC Fighters
- Publication Years: 2007–2009
- Number of Books: 7 (5 novels, 2 anthology stories)
- Awards: Amazon’s Top Ten Editors’ Pick for Causing Havoc
- Author: Lori Foster, New York Times bestseller
Dive into Causing Havoc and get swept away by the SBC Fighters’ world of romance and resilience. Whether you’re a romance junkie or an MMA fan, this series packs a punch!