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 Hawaii Martial Arts News & Rumors
This page is dedicated to Hawaii-specific Martial Arts News & Rumors
If you have any news or rumors, please email it to me
Bookmark this page and check back often!



February News and Rumors Archives
Return to Current News and Rumors Page

 2/28/01

Aiea Thursday Class

Since Chris and I will be attending the Hawaiian Combat event, Kaleo Auwae will be our substitute and teach the class. Shane Agena will be coming later that night. This Thursday is tuition day, but since we will not be there, please hold your payments until Tuesday or next Thursday. Kaleo is already doing us a big favor by teaching for us, we don't want to burden him with money collecting as well. If you have any questions, call or email Mike or Chris. Take this opportunity to question Kaleo because he has a lot of great techniques and attacks from different angles. I'm sure you will not be disappointed.

No Fight for Baret

Once again, Shooto has canceled Baret's fight in Japan. This has to be very disappointing and frustrating for him since he trains so hard for a fight and then it gets pulled from him. We'll keep you updated if any new fights come up.

Romolo's BJJ Tournament this Saturday!

This Saturday the Hawaiian Championships of BJJ is still on (as far as we know). Weigh-ins will be held on Friday. Bring your registration form with payment. The price is $40 for one division (gi or no-gi) and $50 to enter both divisions.

 2/27/01

Hawaiian Combat is this Thursday!

We are not certain if Niko Vitale has recovered from his illness which prevented him from competing at Super Brawl so he can fight in Hawaiian Combat. I caught something myself and had to stay home from work on Mon and Tues. I know what you're thinking, "what, did you get a little runny nose?" I usually never miss work so if Niko had what I have, he is in no shape to fight, believe me.

Rites of Passage
A NHB Documentary

As advertised at Super Brawl, Pipeline Cafe hosted the American debut of the NHB documentary, "Rites of Passage" featuring Enson and Egan Inoue, Kevin Randleman, and Eugene Jackson. The movie shows events from all over the world and lets the fighters talk about the NHB sport and what their theories and backgrounds are. It is a very good movie that hopefully gets released in movie theaters across the US. I did a movie review and interview with the director of the movie, Bobby Razak which will hopefully be printed in the upcoming issue of Full Contact Fighter newspaper. I'll post if it made the deadline.

 2/24/01

Super Brawl 20 Results
Honolulu, Hawaii
QUICK RESULTS:

B Class Fights 2x5 Minute Rounds
#1 Welterweight
Abe Rodriguez 5'8" 150lbs (Grappling Unlimited) 2-1 [Shooto 0-1]
Def.
David Yeung 5'8" 150lbs (AMC/Haru Shimanishi) Pro debut
By submission via rear choke (strangle) at 4:28 minutes in Round 1.

#2 Light Heavyweight
Aristides "Arti" Brito 5'7" 175 lbs (Team Rival) WEF Veteran
Def.
Brennan Kamaka (Jesus is Lord) 2-5 [Shooto 0-1]
By verbal submission, primarily due to pre-existing rib injury being re-injured, at :50 seconds in Round 1.

#3 Light Heavyweight
Anthony Torres 5'8" 185lbs (Grappling Unlimited) 2-0 Amateur
Def.
Kaleo Padilla (Big Island) 4-0 Amateur
By disqualification when one of Padilla's corner men jumped into the ring and onto Torres (who had a straight armbar on Padilla), which caused a fight between the whole Big Island team versus Grappling Unlimited inside the ring. Police entered the ring and pepper sprayed the crowd in the ring.

#4 Constructed Weight (169.9lbs)
John Chrisostomo 5'7" 169.9lbs (Grappling Unlimited) [Shooto 0-1]
Def.
Scott Bills 5'7" 165lbs (Team Rival) [Shooto 0-1] IFC Tournament Winner
By majority decision [(19-19), (20-19), (20-19)] after two rounds.

#5 Heavyweight
Auggie Padaken 6'1" 200lbs (Team Tiger)
Def.
Charlie Anderson 5'10" 190lbs (Team Rival) WEF Veteran 1-0
By majority decision [(20-20), (20-18), (20-18)] after two rounds.

A Class Fights: 3 X 5 Minute Rounds
#6 Light Heavyweight
< Ranked #6 Shooto Light Heavyweight >
Ronald "The Machine Gun" Jhun 5'9" 180lbs (Jesus is Lord) [Shooto 2-2]
IFC US Light Heavyweight Champion
Def.
Mansour Heidari 5'11" 180lb (Team Rival ) 7-2
WEF Veteran, Former Iranian Olympic Wrestler
By forfeit because Heidari would not agree to fight without his wrestling shoes, which is prohibited in Shooto. I have heard a rumor that Heidari had his knee pop out during a sparring session a day or two before the fight and this could have been an easy way out of the fight.

#7 Constructed Weight
< Ranked #7 Shooto Welterweight >
Din Thomas 5'10" 147.5lb (Internal Power) 11-1[Shooto 1-1]
WEF VII Super featherweight Champ [Shooto 2-2] MMA Writers ranked #4
Def.
Stephen "Bozo" Palling 5'6" 147.5lbs (Jesus is Lord) 3-2
< Ranked #5 Shooto Lightweight >
Submission via triangle-arm bar from the guard at 3:53 minutes in Round 1.

#8 Middleweight
Paul Rodriguez 5'7" 167lbs (Internal Power) 10-3 [Shooto 0-1] WEF Veteran
Def.
Ray "Bradda" Cooper 5'7" 167lbs (Jesus is Lord) 6-3 [Shooto 4 -2]
< Ranked #3 Shooto Middleweight >
Super Brawl 3 Tournament winner Former #1 ranked Shooto Middleweight
Submission via arm bar from the guard at 2:58 minutes in Round 1.

UFC 30 Results
Taj Mahal, Atlantic City

QUICK RESULTS:
· Sean Sherk v. Tiki Gohsen: Sherk by slam - dislocated shoulder
· Phil Baroni v. Curtis Stout: Baroni by Judges Decision
· Bobby Hoffman v. Mark Robinson: Hoffman by KO rd 1 (3:27)
· Pedro Rizzo v. Josh Barnett: Rizzo by KO in rd 2 (4:21)
· Jeremy Horn v. Elvis Sinosic: Sinosic by arm bar in rd 1 (2:59)
· Fabiano Iha v. Phil Johns: Iha by arm bar in rd 1 (2:05)

VACANT BANTAMWEIGHT TITLE MATCH:
· Jens Pulver v. Kauro Uno: Pulver by Judges Decision (5 rounds)

MIDDLEWEIGHT TITLE MATCH:
· Tito Ortiz (CHAMPION) v. Evan Tanner: Tito wins by KO slam (rd 1)

 2/23/01 3:05 PM

UFC at Players Update

T. Jay just called and said that Players will NOT be showing the UFC. We are out of luck again. Check back for the UFC results as soon as we get them.

 2/23/01 2:45 PM

UFC at Players Update

Chris just called Players and a guy there said that they will NOT be playing the UFC because it is only being aired on certain satellite systems. I am in the process of contacting T. Jay to see if he can confirm or deny this.

 2/23/01

UFC at Players!

According to T. Jay Thompson, promoter of Super Brawl, Player Sports Bar on Alakea will be showing the UFC. The cover charge is usually $5, but it will be well worth it to get warmed up for the Super Brawl. The UFC is supposed to start at 4:30 PM, but you may want to come early just in case.

Super Brawl Weigh-in and Press Conference

The weigh-ins went as planned. Everyone was there except Kaleo Padilla. Come to find out the last minute changes justified certain fighters absences. Here's the fight card as I left the All Star Hawaii:

Super Brawl XX Fight Card
February 23, 2001
Blaisdell Arena, Honolulu, Hawaii

B Class Fights 2x5 Minute Rounds

#1 Light Heavyweight
Kaleo Padilla (Big Island) 4-0 Amateur
vs
Anthony Torres 5'8" 185lbs (Grappling Unlimited) 2-0 Amateur

#2 Welterweight
Abe Rodriguez 5'8" 150lbs (Grappling Unlimited) 2-1 [Shooto 0-1]
vs
David Yeung 5'8" 150lbs (AMC/Haru Shimanishi) Pro debut

#3 Light Heavyweight
Aristides "Arti" Brito 5'7" 175 lbs (Team Rival) WEF Veteran
vs
Brennan Kamaka (Jesus is Lord) 2-5 [Shooto 0-1]

#4 Constructed Weight (169.9lbs)
Scott Bills 5'7" 165lbs (Team Rival) [Shooto 0-1] IFC Tournament Winner
vs
John Chrisostomo 5'7" 169.9lbs (Grappling Unlimited) [Shooto 0-1]

#5 Heavyweight
Charlie Anderson 5'10" 190lbs (Team Rival) WEF Veteran 1-0
vs
Auggie Padaken 6'1" 200lbs (Team Tiger)

A Class Fights: 3 X 5 Minute Rounds

#6 Light Heavyweight
Mansour Heidari 5'11" 180lb (Team Rival ) 7-2
WEF Veteran, Former Iranian Olympic Wrestler
vs
< Ranked #6 Shooto Light Heavyweight >
Ronald "The Machine Gun" Jhun 5'9" 180lbs (Jesus is Lord) [Shooto 2-2]
IFC US Light Heavyweight Champion

#7 Constructed Weight
< Ranked #7 Shooto Welterweight >
Din Thomas 5'10" 147.5lb (Internal Power) 11-1[Shooto 1-1]
WEF VII Super featherweight Champ [Shooto 2-2]
MMA Writers ranked #4
vs
Stephen "Bozo" Palling 5'6" 147.5lbs (Jesus is Lord) 3-2
< Ranked #5 Shooto Lightweight >

#8 Middleweight
Paul Rodriguez 5'7" 167lbs (Internal Power) 10-3 [Shooto 0-1]
WEF Veteran
vs
Ray "Bradda" Cooper 5'7" 167lbs (Jesus is Lord) 6-3 [Shooto 4 -2]
< Ranked #3 Shooto Middleweight >
Super Brawl 3 Tournament winner Former #1 ranked Shooto Middleweight

Auggie Padaken steps in for a sick Falaniko Vitale. Brennan Kamaka returns back to the line up after a sudden knee injury yesterday of his brother Kai. This still looks to be a great card with many local fighters competing. Come to support Team Hawaii and Mixed Martial Arts in Hawaii!

 2/21/01

Super Brawl Only Two Days Away!

A last minute replacement has Arti Brito facing Brennan's brother, Kai Kamaka.

The press conference and weigh-ins are going to be at All Star Hawaii in Waikiki at 1:00 PM. If you are free, stop to meet the fighters. Tickets are available at the Blaisdell for $25 in advance and $29 on the day of the show so get your tickets early and save $4. VIP ringside tickets are $50. There are a few left of those as well. Mike will try his hardest to be there and post a prefight on this site as well as the Full Contact Fighter website.

Brazilian Brown Belt Daniel Moraes Teaching This Week

2000 Purple belt world champion and brown belt Brasiliero champion, Daniel Moraes is teaching class all this week at Relson's while Relson is in Columbus, Ohio preparing for the Arnold Gracie Worlds. Daniel is a killer so take this opportunity to learn cutting edge techniques from this champion.

Sorry about slaking with the posts.

I have been very busy this week with work, hence the lack of posts. I went to Kauai today and took some cool scenic shots which I may post later. It's still a very laid back country place, just like I remember it. I saw only three stop lights.

 2/17/01

Relson Gracie Aiea Potluck Tomorrow!

We are one day away from our potluck. Make sure to come down to Ala Moana Beach Park early for parking. We are going to try to have one of us go down real early (6:00 AM or so) to save our space in the key (middle loop parking). Bring the family! We're going to play volleyball, water football, andGIF89a <ªÕç‘)v’Ï·²Tm+²§ð·í¦·ªµŸƒ

Hawaii's own, Baret "the Baretcuda" Yoshida may not be fighting in Japan as planned 6 days after Super Brawl. He still has not heard anything from Shooto and feels another sliding of a fight once again. They did not talk of any opponent for him and he pulled out of Super Brawl because of this fight. I don't know what Shooto is thinking because Baret is starting to get quite a name in Japan and can probably bring in some people for the shows. We'll keep you updated if Baret does indeed fight.

Bet Legally on the UFC?

Apparently there is a company that is now making odds and taking bets on the UFC. Check out www.mvpsportsbook.com or call 1-888-771-9076 for more details. If you sign up and mention Full Contact Fighter, you will get a 10% sign up bonus. We'll see if this changes NHB as we know it and see if the money generated can possibly come back to the fighters.

Source: FCF Website

 2/16/01

2001 Hawaiian BJJ Championships Postponed!

Due to the recent tragedy in Rickson's family, we have decided to push back our tournament date from February 24th to March 3rd. The tournament will be held in memory of Rockson Gracie. The weigh-in date was also changed toMarch 2nd, all times and location remain the same - Mahalo, James

Place: University of Hawaii, Klum Gym
Weigh-in: Friday, March 2nd, 2001 12:00-1:00 pm
& 6:00-8:00 pm at University of Hawaii Athletic Complex, Studio 4
Entrance Fee: $40 gi or no gi, add $10 for gi + no gi event.
Application and payment must be submitted at weigh-in.

Contact: Romolo (808)244-5593 or James (808)223-9363

Addition to Pride 13 Card

Here's some matches that have been added to the upcoming Pride 13 Card.

Kazushi Sakuraba Vs. Vanderlei Silva
Igor Vovchanchyn Vs. Ken Shamrock
Renzo Gracie Vs. Dan Henderson

These three fights could headline any card anywhere in the world and still pack the house. I'm sure the DSE, the promoter, is not done by any means.

National Sport JuJitsu Championship in Hawaii

This weekend Saturday and Sunday, February 17 and 18 there will be a sport JuJitsu championship and clinics at the Queen Kapiolani Hotel. The tournament will be in honor of Henry Seishiro Okazaki, the founder of Danzan Ryu/Kodenkan Jujitsu. This is NOT Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and more resembles point Karate, but it should be interesting to watch. The tournament is on the 18th and the youth Jujitsu starts at 8:00 AM, adults start at 1:00 PM. There is also an adult Karate competition on the same time.

 2/15/01

Margarida is coming to Hawaii

Fernando "Margarida" Pontes of the Brazilian Top Team is coming to Relson's academy to do a two day seminar on March 7 (Wednesday) and 8 (Thursday). I will confirm the dates, but I believe that this is correct. If you have never heard of Margarida, you have not been watching BJJ tournaments in the last two years. He has been ripping it up coming up just short of winning a world championship in both his weight and the open categories. He took second in his weight class after cracking Roleta's foot (Roleta let his foot rip to win at the bell) and almost beat the killer Cumprido. Margarida is a submitter who does well in the tournament scene with is very uncharacteristic. Prices will also have to be confirmed, but it is usually $20 per night which is a steal. I am really looking forward to Margarida because I feel that he is one of the top guys competing right now and one of the best to watch.

Hawaiian Combat II Update

Promoter Brennan Kamaka adds Ronald "The Machine Gun" Jhun vs. Chris Brennan for Hawaiian Combat Middleweight Championship on the already packed Hawaiian Combat Card.

 2/13/01

Rickson Responds...

A Message from Rickson Gracie and Family:

We wanted to thank everyone in the Martial Arts world for their support during this most difficult time of our lives, when we are faced with dealing with the loss of our beloved son Rockson. The loss of a child is something no one should be faced with, but the outpouring of compassion, love and respect from all has made this burden a little easier to bear.

We have received hundreds of letters and messages from our friends and we want to thank them all for their love and thoughts. We simply do not have words to describe how thankful we are for all the help received from our brother Renzo Gracie. We also want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the thousands of people that have sent us their love and support. We have been made aware of all the messages of support in the forums, Underground, In the Guard, Mousel's, ADCC and Gracie Magazine's. Their words have given us strength.

Thank you all very much, you are forever in our hearts.

Rickson, Kim Gracie and family.

Source: Kid Peligro and ADCC News

Potluck Moved to Sunday, Feb 18

Since more people can make it on Sunday, we are moving our Aiea Academy potluck to Sunday, still at Ala Moana Beach Park in the center where the key (loop parking) is. We will be there from early morning and stay all day. Make sure you contact Mike or Chris to sign up to let us know what you are bringing. All Relson students are invited as well as their families. Come if you can, we guarantee you'll have fun.

Japanese Journalist and Photographer coming to Super Brawl and Grappling Tournament

Famous photographer and journalist, Manabu Takashima, is planning on attending Super Brawl (as usual) and also plans to come to the Hawaiian BJJ tournament at UH the following day.

 2/12/01

Look for Stolen Van!

A good friend of ours had their 1995 White Dodge Caravan stolen on Saturday night at around 9:40 PM from Makaloa Street. The license plate is GDA-441 and it has black tinted windows and two Saint Louis stickers on it. One is the red Crusader sticker and the other is a white sticker with a blue St. Louis emblem. If you see this van, please call 911 immediately.

Royce Gracie Official Website

Multiple UFC champion, Royce Gracie, has a website of his own, www.roycegracie.tv. Eventually, the site will be www.roycegracie.com.

New Official UFC Website

The Ulimate Fighting Championship is in the process of sprucing up their website. While it is being constructed, check out www.ufc.tv to see how the development is going.

 2/11/01

Aiea Academy Potluck Planned!

As stated in class, we are planning a beach pot luck on President's Day, Monday February 19th at Ala Moana Beach Park for all the students and friends of the Relson Gracie Aiea Academy. We will have sign up sheets for what you are planning to bring so everyone doesn't bring paper plates and napkins and look for meat. We will play volleyball, water football and just hang out. Your entire family are invited and this is a great way to hang out with everyone in class and have your family meet the guys that take all the "quality time" on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The main academy students are invited as well. See Mike or Chris for details or to sign up. We always have a great time together so even if you can't guarantee coming, stop by if you can.

Rockson Gracie Death Confirmed

Unfortunately, Rockson Gracie, oldest son of Rickson, has died in an apparent motorcycle accident in New York. Rockson has been missing since December 10, but since his bank account has been being depleted, everyone thought that he was ok. There are many stories regarding the details, but the story that I have been hearing is that he was in New York, got in a motorcycle accident and was not carrying any identification so the police did not know who he was. The story is that he was buried or has been dead for possibly one to two months and Renzo (who lives in NY) had to go and identify him. Rickson and Renzo are great fighters, teachers, and people and I would hate to be either of these people, Rickson for losing his oldest son and Renzo for being the person who had to identify a lifeless Rockson. Our deepest sympathy goes to Rickson, Kim, and the Gracie family. Chris and I were lucky enough to train with Rockson when he was much younger. He was a very confident and talented young man.

Pan American Jiu-Jitsu Tournament Info
Go to www.cbjj.com.br for information on pre-registration and general information regarding this upcoming tournment. You can email questions through this site as well.

 2/9/01

Late Breaking RUMOR (5:40 PM)

I have just heard that Rockson Gracie, Rickson's oldest son, was found dead in LA. This is a RUMOR at this point, but we hope this is indeed a hoax or false information. Rockson is making a name for himself on the tournament scene even with the immense pressure from having Rickson as his dad. If you have any verifiable information that verifies or contradicts this news, please email me as soon as possible.

Painting Party!

I kind of threw this together really quickly and any of you out there that are gluttons for punishment and want to help me paint my house this Saturday or Sunday, I passed out fliers at Thursday's Aiea class for details. If you did not get one, please call me on my cell at 381-5959 or email me at Chris@Onzuka.com. I appreciate any help that you can spare.

How's the ankle?

For those of you who attended class on Tuesday, you saw me (Chris) get my ankle twisted. I went to the doctor the next day and took some x-rays. Lucky for me, it wasn't broken, just severly sprained. The doc said to stay out at least 4-6 weeks, lucky me.

For you sick guys out there, I thought you guys might appreciate this. Just click on the picture to see more angles.


No this is not Konoshiki's foot next to mine. This will give you a feel for how swelled my foot actually is. Pretty cool.

Super Brawl Change

A promoter's life before an event is hell. Fighters drop out and pull out for all kind of reasons which leaves the promoter scrambling for new match-ups. Unfortunately (for me at least), one of the best match-ups on the card was modified. Bob-O Ostovich was injured during training and had to pull out. Anthony Torres will face the Big Island's Kaleo Padilla.

Lincoln Tyler was tentatively slated to fight Enson's student Norifumi, but Norifumi pulled out due to unknown reasons. Lincoln was finally found, but the fight will not happen.

 2/8/01

Hawaiian Combat II is fast approaching!
Team Hawaii vs. Team Washington
Come support our local stars and up & coming fighters!
Weigh-ins February 28, 2001 at Spa Waiau starting at 6:00 PM
Event at Waipahu High School Gym at 7:00 PM
Admission: Waipahu High School students (w/ ID) $10
General Admission: $15
Ringside: $35
Call 808-864-5511 for ticket information or email Brennan Kamaka

Double Main Event
180lbs. Division
Ronald "The Machine Gun" Jhun (Jesus Is Lord Gym)
vs.
Brandon Dudley (Marcelo Alonso/Carlson Gracie Team) 3-0
Washington NHB Champion

200lbs. Division
Falaniko Vitale (Grappling Unlimited,Hawaii)
vs.
Todd Medina (Freestyle Jiu-Jitsu/Carlson Gracie Team)

Hawaii vs. Washington Undercard
175lbs. Kai Kamaka (Hawaii) vs. Eric Dahlberg (Washington)
145lbs. Eddie Yagin (Hawaii) vs. Joel Townsend (Washington)
170lbs. Nate Ah Loo (Hawaii) vs. J.Y.Taylor (Washington)
175lbs. Kolo Koka (Hawaii) vs. Jeff Gurumba (Washington)
145lbs. Russel Mederios (Hawaii) vs. Mark Ashton (Washington)
165lbs. David Padilla (Hawaii) vs. Kevin Smith (Washington)

 2/7/01

Native Blend CD Release Party Tonight!
Blue Tropics (Next to 24-Hour Fitness on Kapiolani)
Music starts at 8:00 PM

Don't forget to come by Blue Tropics tonight to check out this hot new band. We'll be there to hang out for a while, talk story, and listen to some good music.

Super Brawl XX Revised Card
Official Shooto Fights
February 23, 2001 Blaisdell Arena, Honolulu, HI

B-Class 2x5 Minute Rounds
#1 Light Heavyweight
Arti Brito 5'7" 175 lbs (Team Rival) WEF Veteran
vs
Brennan Kamaka 5'6" 175lbs (SWAT Team) 2-2 [Shooto 0-1]

#2 Light Heavyweight
Bob "Bob-O" Ostovich 5'8" 180lbs (Jesus is Lord) 0-3 [Shooto 0-1]
vs
Anthony Torres 5'8" 185lbs (Grappling Unlimited) 0-0

#3 Welterweight
Abe Rodriguez 5'8" 150lbs (Grappling Unlimited) 2-1 [Shooto 0-1]
vs
David Young 5'8" 150lbs (AMC/Haru Shimanishi) Pro debut

#4 Middleweight
Jay R. Palmer 5'8" 160lbs [Shooto 0-2]
Multiple Super Brawl Champion & Veteran
vs
TBA

#5 Constructed Weight (169.9lbs)
Scott Bills 5'7" 165lbs (Team Rival) [Shooto 0-1] IFC Tournament Winner
vs
John Crisostomo 5'7" 169.9lbs (Grappling Unlimited) [Shooto 0-1]

CLASS A Fight 3 X 5min.rounds

#6 Heavyweight
Charlie Anderson 5'10" 190lbs (Team Rival) WEF Veteran 1-0
vs
Falaniko Vitale 6'1" 200lbs (Grappling Unlimited) 6-1

#7 Light Heavyweight
Mansour Heidari 5'11" 180lb (Team Rival ) 7-2
WEF Veteran, Former Iranian Olympic Wrestler
vs
< Ranked #6 Shooto Light Heavyweight >
Ronald "The Machine Gun" Jhun 5'9" 180lbs (Jesus is Lord) [Shooto 2-2]
IFC US Light Heavyweight Champion

#8 Constructed Weight
< Ranked #7 Shooto Welterweight >
Din Thomas 5'10" 147.5lb (Internal Power) 11-1[Shooto 1-1]
WEF VII Superfeatherweight Champ [Shooto 2-2]
MMA Writers ranked #4
vs
Stephen "Bozo" Palling 5'6" 147.5lbs (Jesus is Lord) 3-2
< Ranked #5 Shooto Lightweight >

#9 Middleweight < Ranked #3 Shooto Middleweight >
Paul Rodrigues 5'7" 167lbs (Internal Power) 10-3 [Shooto 0-1]
WEF Veteran
vs
Ray "Bradda" Cooper 5'7" 167lbs (Jesus is Lord) 6-3 [Shooto 4 -2]
Super Brawl 3 Tournament winner
Former #1 ranked Shooto Middleweight

 2/6/01

Super Brawl XX Update Again

Kaleo Padilla is to face Kai Kamaka. Bad news for Hawaii fans, unfortunately, Baret Yoshida's Japan fight was moved to just six days after the Super Brawl so Baret does not want to risk injury and will have to pull out of the event. Super Brawl still has a solid card of local fighters that will put on a great show with big time production and the jumbo tron which is exceptionally great for the fans to catch all the crucial angles of the fights.

As a side note, Vinícius "Draculino" Magalhães, a Carlos Gracie Jr. 3rd degree BJJ black belt wants to fight Hawaii's own, Baret Yoshida. Due to prior commitments and last minute notice, this match will not take place for this event. Promoter of Super Brawl, T. Jay Thompson, has been informed and we'll see what comes of this. Draculino is known for his epic battles with Royler Gracie on the sport BJJ scene and looks to get in to NHB. As far as I know, Draculino has not fought NHB yet. His weight is around 147 lbs (peso pena), which is relatively close to Baret's. It would be an interesting fight to see if Draculino can handle Baret's experience and submission based style.

 2/5/01

Super Brawl XX Update

Super Brawl XX has added a couple of fights. Ronald Juhn is fighting Mansour Heidari, who is a former Iranian Olympic Wrestler.

Lincoln Tyler may fight Norifumi. Norifumi has fought amateur Shooto in
Japan and will be in town with Enson. Enson trains his guys the hard style so you know this guy has to be tough.

Abe Rodriguez is slated to fight David Young who trains with Haru Shimanishi of HMC.

Anthony Torres, Bob-O Ostovich and Kai Kamaka may fight guys from the Big Island.

 2/4/01

NAGA FLORIDA RESULTS

Once again, why are they posting this? A very close friend and instructor of Relson
Gracie Jacksonville Assocation, Lionel Perez, had a good showing in this event taking the Light heavyweight and absolute no-gi divisions as well as the most technical fighter award. He has visited Hawaii and we put him to work at Aiea teaching a couple of classes to our guys while he was here. He is a great friend and teacher, as well as a talented BJJ competitor. We congratulate him on his victories and look forward to him visiting us here soon. By the way, we voted him most technical drinker/most likey to wrestle a gator while he was here last time.


Orlando, FL-On January 27, 2001, the North American Grappling Association took some pointers from the migrating birds of New England and flew south for some old fashioned Florida fightin'. The NAGA joined forces with World Extreme Fighting Promoter, Jamie Levine, and hosted the Sunshine State Submission Championship near the world capital of family entertainment, DisneyWorld. The tournament was the NAGA's first foray into the Deep South and competition proved to be fierce and entertaining.

The competition also marked another first for the NAGA-traditional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu rules for the Gi divisions. Historically the NAGA has preferred to use its own, well-established submission rules over the BJJ rules. But after considering a great deal of feedback from NAGA members who prefer the BJJ rules, the NAGA decided to break from the norm and honor the fighters' requests.

Just under 150 fighters from as far as Massachusetts traveled to Florida top compete. Here are the results:

ADULT TEAM CHAMPIONS:
1st Place Team Marcio Simas - 69 Points
2nd Place Team Popovitch - 45 Points
3rd Place Team Renzo Gracie - 42 Points
4th Place Team Relson Gracie (Jax) - 39 Points

MOST TECHNICAL FIGHTER:
Lionel Perez from Team Relson Gracie tore through his competition in both the Heavy and Light Heavy Advanced No-Gi Divisions. On his path to victory were some of NAGA's best, Anthony Argynos & David Tirelli who both made the trip down from the Northeast. Dave and Anthony will hopefully get another chance at Lionel when Rival Fight Gear offers Lionel a free trip to CT to compete in our 8-man competition in May.

GI Beginner Light Weight (154.9 & Under)
1st Hillard Wisehart Conan
2nd Jeffery Favor Relson Gracie JAX

GI Intermediate Light Weight (154.9 & Under)
1st Chris Renoza Relson Gracie JAX

GI Intermediate Light Heavy Weight (175 to 199.9)
1st John Montaldo Mario Simas
2nd Christian McLaughlin DeLa Riva
3rd John Litwak Tampa Judo JJ
4th Matthew Rogers Relson Gracie JAX

NO GI Seniors 35 Years + (One Division)
1st George Sernack Renzo
2nd Mark Thomas Relson Gracie JAX
3rd Ernest Goodly South Florida boxing
4th Steve Piantieri JKD

GI Seniors 35 Years + (One Division)
1st George Sernack Renzo
2nd Thomas Cross High Performance
3rd Lawrence Kingston Central Florida JJ
4th Eddie Gibson Relson

NO GI Beginner Heavy Weight (200 to 219.9)
1st Steven Pearson Mario Simas
2nd Felix Mitchell Relson Gracie JAX

NO GI Advanced Light Heavy Weight (175 to 199.9)
1st Lionel Perez Relson Gracie JAX
2nd Efrain Ruiz Valente/Cardosa
3rd Bill Scott Renzo Gracie
4th David Tirelli Tiger Schulmann

NO GI Advanced Heavy Weight (200 to 219.9)
1st Lionel Perez Relson Gracie JAX
2nd Anthony Argyros Advanced Fighting
3rd Chris Hickman

Source: NAGA promoter & FCF Website

Looking for Lincoln Tyler

If anyone sees or knows Lincoln's number, please have him call Mike at 381-9530 ASAP. Thanks.

 2/2/01

February 1, 2001 Updated Shooto Ranking

Hawaii fighters have dropped in ranking due to recent losses, but are holding still great positions in the rankings. Baret falls only one spot to #4 and Bozo Palling is #6 in the lightweight division (now lighter weight limit). Ray "Bradda" Cooper also falls only two places to #3 middleweight ranking, while Ron Jhun is at #6 in the light heavyweight. All four Hawaii fighters are still contenders and in favorable positions for title shots. Remember to support your local fighters by attending events that showcase these athletes. Super Brawl XX featuring all these fighters is fast approaching on February 23, 2001 at Neil Blaisdell Arena. Tickets are on sale now!

Featherweight 58.0 kilos 127.87 lbs or less

CHAMPION: Mamoru [STG Yokohama] Japan, 5W 1D

1.Uchu Tatsumi, [K'z Factory] Japan, 10W 1D 1L

2.Hiroaki Yoshioka [Paraestra, Tokyo]Japan, 3W 2D 1L

3.Jin Akimoto [K'z Factory] Japan, 7W 2D 5L

4.Masahiro Oishi [K'z Factory] Japan, 5W 3D 4L

5.Takeyasu Hirono [Wajutsu Keishukai] Japan, 1W 3L 3D

6.Yoshinobu Ota [Shiojuku] Japan, 3W 2L

Lightweight 63.0 kilos 138.89 lbs or less

Champion: Alexandre Franca Nogueira [World Fight Center] Brazil, 6W

1. Naoya Uematsu [K'z Factory] Japan, 8W 1D

2. Noboru Asahi [Purebred Omiya] Japan, 18W 4 D 4L

3. Tetsuo Katsuta [K'z Factory] Japan, 5W 2L

4. Baret Yoshida [Grappling Unlimited ] U.S.A., 3W 2L

5. Katsuya Toida [Wajutsu Keishukai] Japan, 4W 2L

6. Stephen "Bozo" Palling [Jesus is Lord] U.S.A., 2W 2L

7. Hiroyuki Abe [RJW Central] Japan, 2W 1D 1L

8. Kimihito Nonaka [Purebred Omiya] Japan, 4W 2D 4L

9. Hisao Ikeda [Purebred Omiya] Japan, 8W 1D 4L

10. Mamoru Okouchi [Gutsman Shooto Dojo] Japan, 9W 2D 11L

Welterweight 69.0kilos 152.12lbs or less

Champion: Vacant

1. Dokonjonosuke Mishima [Cobra-kai] Japan, 6W 2D 1L

2. Takanori Gomi [K'z Factory] Japan, 7W

3. Marcio "Cromado" [Hugo Duarte & Pereila] Brazil, 1W 1L

4. Rumina Sato [K'z Factory] Japan, 15W 3L

5. Takuya Kuwabara [Purebred Omiya] Japan, 8W 4D 2L

6. Ian Schaffa [Spartan Gym] Australia, 1W 1D 1L

7. Din Thomas [Internal Power] U.S.A., 1W 1L

8. Ryan Bow [Freelance] U.S.A., 3W 1L

9. Kohei Yasumi [Paraestra, Tokyo] Japan, 3W 2D

10. Dennis Hallman [AMC Pankration] U.S.A., 2L

Middleweight 76.0kilos 167.55lbs or less

Champion: Hayato "Mach" Sakurai [Gutsman Shooto Dojo] Japan, 12W 1D

1. Tetsuji Kato [Purebred Omiya] Japan, 9W 2L

2. Alex Cook [Spartan Gym] Australia, 3W 2L

3. Ray "Bradda" Cooper [Jesus is Lord] U.S.A., 4W 2L

4. Matt Hughes [Miletich Martial Arts Center] U.S.A., 2W

5. Frank Trigg [rAw Team] U.S.A., 1W 1L

6. Dan Gilbert [Chicago Fight Team] U.S.A., 1W 1L

7. Jutaro Nakao [Shooto Gym Osaka] Japan, 6W 2D 7L

8. Steve Berger [Rodrigo Vaghi JJ Academy] U.S.A., 1D

9. Marcio Feitosa [Gracie Barra] Brazil, 1D

10. Shogun Kawakatsu [Purebred Omiya] Japan, 5W 1D 2L

Light Heavyweight 85.0kilos 187.39lbs or less

Champion: Vacant

1. Larry Papadopoulos [Spartan Gym] Australia, 2W 2D

2. Lance Gibson [Franko/Gibson Pankration] Canada, 2W

3. Akihiro Gono [Team GRABAKA] Japan, 8W 3D 5L

4. Masanori Suda [Club J] Japan, 7W 5L

5. Martijn de Jong [Martijn Dojo] Holland, 1W 1L

6. Ronald Jhun [Jesus is Lord] U.S.A., 2W 2L

7. Izuru Takeuchi [K'z Factory] Japan, 3W 2D 1L

8. Kenji Kawaguchi [STG Yokohama] Japan, 11W 4D 4L

Brown Belt Daniel Moraes has landed in Hawaii!

Present brown belt and purple belt World Champion, Daniel Moraes has arrived in Hawaii to stay for 6 months to train and help teach. Daniel is the nephew of Jose Moraes who was the Secretary of Sports and the biggest political supporter of Jiu-Jitsu in Brazil. Daniel was also a yellow, orange, and possibly green belt Brasileiro champion (National Championship of Brazil). We met Daniel when we visited Brazil in 1997 and he and his friends threw a BBQ for us the same day they met us. He was part of the reason why we thought everyone in Brazil was extremely cool and had a great time. Daniel also fought in a purple belt superfight in the undercard of the Royce vs. Wallid Copa Pele Jiu-Jitsu card. We are looking forward to training with Daniel and learning the tons of moves that he will bring. We will also talk to Relson about striking a deal for the Aiea students to take classes that Daniel will be teaching (if he does) at the main academy. Let's all make him feel welcome so he stays longer!

Native Blend CD Release Party

Local producer, Flyin' Hawaiian Studios owner, and Relson Gracie Aiea Academy student, Lester Gantan is having a CD Release party for his newest band, Native Blend at Blue Tropics (next to 24-Hour Fitness on Kapiolani) on Wednesday, February 7, 2001. The media press party starts at 7:00 PM and the entertainment starts at 8:00 PM. Other bands slated to perform are Pati, Colon, Mark Atuaia, Kanalo and Ten Feet. Come down to hear great music and meet this new hot band!

 2/1/01

Falaniko Vitale has left SWAT Team

Word has finally hit the street that Niko Vitale has left the SWAT team that included Brennan Kamaka and was based in Kaneohe to join Grappling Unlimited and train with Egan Inoue and Baret Yoshida. We have heard that Niko felt that the change would allow him to continue to learn and grow as a fighter. The change will probably offer Niko more connections in the Inoue camp for fights in Japan and abroad. Good luck to Niko in his new school and in his upcoming fights.

It is uncertain whether Niko will still headline the next Hawaiian Combat card which is scheduled for March 1, 2001 at Waipahu High School Gym. His slated opponent, Todd Medina, was victorious this weekend by keylock in just 15 seconds. Medina weighed in at 193 lbs so he is in Niko's weight class of under 200 lbs.

Pan Am Jiu-Jitsu Tournament Info

The premier sport Jiu-Jitsu tournament in American is returning in April to Florida. The Pan Ams are a chance for Americans to test their skills against top Brazilian competitors of all belts to see where they stand and do it on American soil. Previously, only the top brown and black belts had the sponsors to send them to the Pan Ams, but this has changed considerably. Now, almost every weight and belt has at least one Brazilian based Jiu-Jitsu practioner competing.

When: April 7 & 8
Where: Kissimmee’s Kissimmee Civic Center
210 Dakin Avenue, Kissimmee FL 34741
How much: $80.00 pre-registration ($100 late?)

Relson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Aiea Academy Goes Back to the Gi

Just a reminder for all the Aiea students, Aiea is going back to training with the gi for the month of February. Also, this Thursday and next Tuesday are tuition days since they are the first Tuesday and Thursday of the month. See you Tonight!

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