Upcoming
Events
Do you want to list an
event on Onzuka.com?
Contact Us
(All events on Oahu, unless noted)
November
Pride
Bushido 5
(MMA)
(Yokohama Arena, Japan)
September
Ring
of Honor 6
( Kickboxing/MMA)
(Kauai)
Tentative
9/25/04
NAGA Hawaii State Grappling Championships
(BJJ & Sub Grappling)
(Tentative)
August
Ring of Honor 6
( Kickboxing/MMA)
(Maui)
Tentative
8/28/04
Hawaiian Grappling Challenge
(Submission Grappling)
(Oahu)
8/15/04
Pride
All Stars Show
(MMA)
(Japan)
July
Bushido 4
(MMA)
(Nagoya Rainbow Hall, Japan)
7/26/04
False Crack Mondays
(MMA, Kickboxing, Toughman)
(Volcanoes Night Club)
7/24/04
Submission Wrestling Tpurnament
(Sub Grappling)
(Kahului, Maui, Hawaii)
July 9-12
BJJ
World Cup (CBJJO)
(BJJ)
(SESC gym, Salvador, Brazil)
7/9/04
Shooto
Hawaii
(MMA)
(Blaisdell Arena)
6/26/04
Kickin' It
(Kickboxing)
(Palama Settlement)
6/21/04
False Crack Mondays
(MMA, Kickboxing, Toughman)
(Volcanoes Night Club)
6/20/04
Pride Heavyweight
Grand Prix
(MMA)
(Japan)
6/19/04
UFC
48: Payback
(MMA)
6/18/04
Super
Brawl 36
(MMA)
(Blaisdell Arena)
6/13 or 20/04?
Ring of Honor 5
(Sub Grappling)
(Campbell H.S. Gym)
|
|
June 2004 News Part
1
Wednesday
night and Sunday classes (w/ a kids' class) now offered!
 
For the special Onzuka.com
price, click on one of these banners above! |
Tuesdays at 6:00PM on
Olelo Channel 52 |
Quote
of the Day
"Better to be prepared for an opportunity and not have one,
than to have an opportunity and not be prepared."
Whitney Young, Jr. 1922-1971, American Social Reformer
|
Super
Brawl Playmate?
Friday,
June 18th
Neal Blaisdell Arena
Playboy Playmate Deanna Brooks will be in town for the Super
Brawl and is scheduled to do a NATIONAL project with Super Brawl.
Details cannot be released at this time, but this may lead to
wider exposure for Hawaii's longest running MMA event.
If
you are over 18 years old, email us and we can give you her website address.
We do not want to post the link to her site because there is
nudity on her opening page and do not want to contribute to minors
looking at pornography.
June
18th is fast approaching so don't miss seeing Niko Vitale back
in action or the finals of the 155 lb tournament! Deanna Brooks
is easy on the eyes as well so Get your tickets now!
|
RIP
President Reagan
Giraldi Muay-Thai, Hawaii, USA, would like to send our condolence
to former President Ronald W. Reagan, wife Nancy Reagan and family
members. May he Rest In Peace and God Bless.
Aloha,
Tony Giraldi,
President and Head Coach @ Giraldi Muay-Thai, Hawaii, USA.
Onzuka.com
would also like to acknowledge and send our condolences to the
family and supporters of the "great communicator."
Who says that movie stars can't make good political leaders?
|
Rhadi
Ferguson makes the 2004 Judo Olympic Team!
YES
Rhadi is the new 2004 Olympian. Lloyd Irvin's student Rhadi Ferguson
overcame many HUGE obstacles, including a few injuries that threatened
to leave him out of the trials completely, in realizing his life
long dream of fighting in the Olympics. In 2000 Rhadi was an
alternate, this time around however, Rhadi is going to be going
for Judo Olympic Gold representaing the U.S.A.!
Rhadi,
a BJJ Brown Belt under Lloyd Irvin, has competed in many events
such as the 2000 International Pro-Ams and BJJ Worlds and we've
had the chance to personally see what an incredible athlete and
person he is, so a big congratulations from Kid to Rhadi 'Judo
Machine' Ferguson for such a tremendous acoomplishment.
Below
is the press release from Lloyd:
This
is one of the biggest athletic accomplishments we've ever had
at Lloyd Irvin's Martial Arts. We have someone going to the OLYMPICS.
None
of this could've been possible without the support of so many
people such as yourself. Rhadi wanted to personally thank everyone
for their support. We did an audio postcard so you can hear it
directly from him.
We
also have all of the detailed information about the matches including
some great pictures. To get see everything that went check out
http://clicks.aweber.com/z/ct/?R91IeSd03mNth9B6TIZI1A
Source: ADCC
|
TICKET
SALES HEAT UP FOR UFC 48
Last week, we reported about tickets sales not going well based
on ticket sales information from our sources at Mandalay Bay
a week ago Monday. That was 14 days ago, but now with the event
just a couple weeks out, it seems as tickets are "right
on track" according to official representatives of the UFC.
UFC
Public Relations Director, Spence Johnston, stated that, "We're
right on track as far as ticket sales are concerned." As
per their policy, Johnston would not relay any actual numbers,
but did say that ticket sales have been good and are right where
the UFC expects them to be.
As
for the information we received last week, Johnston noted that,
while the information may have been accurate at the time, Mandalay
Bay does not have information for all the tickets that have been
accounted for.
The
UFC is content with the way that tickets are moving and, again,
Johnston says that, "We have a strong card and are anticipating
a full house. Ticket sales are right where we expect them to
be."
With
less than two weeks until show time, that is great news. With
a main event featuring Ken Shamrock and Kimo Leopoldo, the UFC
should be able to lure many old school fans back to pay per view.
Feature bouts such as Tim Sylvia and Frank Mir vying for the
vacant UFC Heavyweight Title and top welterweights such as former
champion Matt Hughes versus highly regarded Renato "Charuto"
Verissimo, along with more great undercard bouts, should keep
hardcore fans happy as well.
UFC
48 Fight Card (Saturday, June 19th):
Ken
Shamrock vs Kimo
Frank Mir vs Tim Sylvia
Phil Baroni vs Evan Tanner
Matt Hughes vs Charuto Verrissimo
Trevor Prangley vs Curtis Stout
George St. Pierre vs Jay Hieron
Matt Serra vs Ivan Menjivar
Frank Trigg vs Dennis Hallman
Source: MMA Weekly
|
HALLMAN
PREDICTS TRIGG WILL TAP AT UFC 48
As
UFC 48 gets closer and closer, MMAWeekly SoundOff Radio continues
to bring you sixteen fighters in sixteen days. On Tuesday's edition,
Dennis Hallman was the featured guest. He will be fighting Frank
Trigg on June 19th, at UFC 48 and spoke about the fight, their
previous match in November of 2002, gave his take on the Hughes
and Verissimo bout, and provided an update on teammate Benji
Radach.
Hallman
hasn't been in the UFC octagon since UFC 33, back in September
of 2001, when he lost a unanimous decision to Jens Pulver. He
had to opportunity to come back "a couple of times"
since then but things just didn't work out. Dennis said he is
excited about being back and was impressed with the growth of
the sport since UFC 33. He recalled the weigh-ins back in 2001
only have fourty or so spectators, compared to the eight to nine
hundred that showed up at UFC 47.
Dennis
and Frank Trigg have fought before. In a World Fighting Alliance
match in 2001, Dennis was unable to continue after receiving
an inadvertent groin strike. Since then, the rules have been
changed and if the fight were to have happened today, it would
have been ruled a No Contest. The rule was changed mainly due
to their fight. Of coarse, Trigg disputes the low blow but Hallman
described it as, "I got kicked in the balls." Dennis
added, that he would have won the fight if he would have been
able to continue.
Hallman
said he learned from their first meeting. He learned "that
I don't have anything to worry about." Dennis hold two wins
over Matt Hughes and when asked about the similarities between
Trigg and Hughes, Hallman said the only real similarity is that
they are both wrestlers. He stated that Matt Hughes is ten times
the fighter Trigg is and went on to say, "I'd rather fight
Frank Trigg four hundred times than Matt Hughes twice."
He
characterized Frank as a good wrestler, with an aggressive stand
up and good takedowns. Dennis said, point blank, "I don't
respect his ground game." In fact, he doesn't thing Trigg
will try to take him down. He thinks Frank will attempt to keep
the fight on it's feet and, "Go for the only chance that
he has to win, which is a knockout or a cut."
Dennis
Hallman stated a couple of times about the respect he has for
Matt Hughes as a fighter. He thought Matt would beat BJ Penn
but wasn't surprised that BJ was able to catch Matt making a
mistake. Hughes will be fighting "Charuto" Verissimo
at UFC 48 and Dennis thinks Matt will win. He has been impressed
with Verissimo's performances but still isn't convinced. He feels
that Hughes will be able to put "Charuto" on the bottom,
a place we haven't really seen him before.
Hallman's
teammate Benji "The Razor" Radach is a hard hitting
up and comer who just suffered, what many feel was a fluke knock
out loss to Danny Lafever. He has been in the UFC before, at
UFC 39, his fight with Sean Sherk was stopped due to a cut and
he hasn't been back. Benji will be fighting Chris Leben on June
26th in the Oregon based SportFight promotion. Dennis expects
Radach to get the KO win, "for sure." He added that
Benji would knock out Phil Baroni, beat Lee Murray and most fighters
at 185 pounds couldn't hang with Benji.
Nearing
the end of the interview, Dennis was asked to give his prediction
of what is going to take place on June 19th, when he and Frank
Trigg are locked in the octagon against each other. He answered,
"Frank Trigg rapidly tapping hand." He commented, "The
first mistake he makes, I'm going to capitalize on it and then
he'll tap." He admitted that at certain times in his career
he was guilty of being a "cruise control fighter."
He stated, almost promised, "The Dennis Hallman you're going
to see June 19th, is going to be the Dennis Hallman of old that's
going to go in there and let everything go."
Source: MMA Weekly
|
Interview:
SEAN SHERK
Every fan should be familiar with Sean Sherk by now. At 22-1-1
the Pride and UFC vet has done more in the past year than most
fighters do in their whole careers. Sherk’s only loss is
to former UFC champion Matt Hughes when he fought for the title
while his victories include Benji Radach, Jutaro Nakao, Manvel
Gamburyan, Tiki Ghosen, and Karo Parisyan twice. Recently Sherk
has been changing his style as we will hear about in a moment,
with a post-Hughes/UFC record of 7-0 with two TKOs, four submissions,
and a single decision. Now Sherk is set to fight in this weekend’s
Extreme Challenge against Marcus Hicks, a fighter with a MMA
record pro and amateur combined of only 5-0 but extensive jiu-jitsu
and pro boxing careers as well.
KM:
You just fought last weekend… SS: Yeah, in Idaho. Pride
& Fury. It was pretty quick. 0:57 and I won by north/south
choke.
KM:
Since last we heard from you right before Pride: Bushido I noticed
you have picked up a lot of submission victories. I think last
weekend makes four submission wins in six months. SS: Yeah. I’m
not the same fighter I was a year ago. I’m a different fighter
now. I’ve been doing jiu-jitsu for a long time and I’m
really focusing on my jiu-jitsu game. I have the wrestling, the
wrestling there…it’s never going to go away. I want
to keep that sharp but I’m really focusing on my jiu-jitsu
and my submissions. I’m going to finish people, I’m
not going to sit in guard and ground-and-pound anymore. I’m
looking to finish and get out of there as fast as possible.
KM:
You have definitely been finishing quicker and getting away from
the decisions you were getting known for like a year and a half
ago. SS: Yep.
KM:
How are you training differently? SS: I’m training the same
but I’m concentrating a lot more on jiu-jitsu. I’m
drilling a lot more submissions, I’m going for things where
before when I was in the gym I’d get set in my ways like
focus on my wrestling and I wouldn’t want to go to my back
and I wouldn’t be willing to try new submissions. Now I
go to the gym and I go for it. I jump on my back and work my
guard, I’m working all kinds of different things, I’m
jumping into goofy positions and trying to scramble out of them…my
game is just a lot more well-rounded now.
KM:
Around what time did that change in strategy come about? SS:
Definitely after the Matt Hughes fight, after I got let go by
the UFC. I kind of had to rethink things because I used the ground-and-pound
for a long time and everybody knows me as a wrestler ad ground-and-pound
fighter and I took that as far as it would get me. After the
Hughes fight and after the UFC let me go I had to rethink my
game and come up with a new strategy. That took me as far as
it would and now I figured it was time to move on and take a
different path and evolve.
KM:
A lot of the promoters are saying that is what the fans are paying
to see. SS: Exactly.
KM:
Is that why you took one fight in eight months last year, from
between April and December? SS: I was having a hard time getting
fights after that Hughes fight. I did schedule a couple fights
with a promoter Chad Mason and he ended up burning me. He disappeared
off the face of the Earth. That really hurt me because I was
counting on those fights. Yeah, I didn’t have any fights
for a while there. Now I’m busy, I’m going to be busy
this entire year. I’m going to have fights every month.
This fight in Idaho I took on eight days notice, I figured I
was in great shape so what the hell.
KM:
I was concerned you might get injured and jeopardize this Extreme
Challenge show. SS: No, I protect myself pretty well when I fight.
I keep my hands up real well and don’t take a whole lot
of chances so I don’t get hit a whole lot. With 0:57 that
was kind of good because I could get out of there, come home,
and start training for this fight on Friday.
KM:
I’ll ask about that in a moment but first, were did you
learn the jiu-jitsu? SS: Greg Nelson is a black belt under Pedro
Sauer. Also at our academy (Note: Minnesota Martial Arts Academy)
we have tons of brown belts and blue belts so we really get together
and get some great training sessions. Plus watching videos and
a lot of mat time.
KM:
I saw you listed somewhere as AKA but FCF still has you listed
as Minnesota Martial Arts Academy. SS: I’m with the Minnesota
Martial Arts Academy. I’ve been there for ten years now
and that is where I’m at six days a week.
KM:
Any idea why I saw ‘AKA’? SS: Bob Cook, a guy who works
with my manager, trains at AKA. I had actually went to AKA for
a week but that shouldn’t be on there.
KM:
I hear this Extreme Challenge show, Marcus Hicks is going to
be a good opponent for you. What do you know about him? SS: I
don’t know a whole lot about him. I know he’s purple
belt in jiu-jitsu, he does a lot of jiu-jitsu tournaments, and
I also heard he is a pro boxer. They say he is built like me
and is in great shape and has a lot of speed. When I talked to
Monte Cox I told him I wanted a good opponent for myself. I don’t
want a minute or two-minute fight. I want to get in there and
is going to push me. Hopefully it will be a good fight. I want
to give the fans what they paid to see.
KM:
In that sense how does this EC compare to last weekend’s
Idaho show? SS: Uhhh, I think the show should be really good.
Monte Cox and Dave Menne put on this show. Dave Menne, former
UFC Champion, and Monte Cox I believe this is his 58th show so
he has a lot of experience. I’m fighting on the card, Dave
is fighting on the card, and Travis Wiuff is fighting on the
card. We’re all from Minnesota, local boys. We’re all
world-class fighters fighting on the same show so it will definitely
be a lot of people there as well.
KM:
You have always had the wrestling and we talked about the jiu-jitsu.
He’s jiu-jitsu and pro boxing. I don’t recall seeing
you stand up much… SS: That is another area as well. I’ve
been training muay Thai in 1994. About the last six years I’ve
been doing it three, four, five days a week. I’ve really
been hitting it hard. That is another area that is really going
to come around. Right now I consider myself a ground fighter
and I’ll throw some strikes but I’m not going to stand
and bang with somebody, too many things that can happen.
KM:
You were saying you were going to be fighting about once a month.
Any idea what is after EC yet? SS: We have a lot of verbal agreements
but I probably shouldn’t name the show because we don’t
have any signed contracts at this point.
KM:
Anything else to get across? SS: I could definitely thank the
Minnesota Martial Arts Academy for all their support and all
the great training they have given me because if it wasn’t
for them I wouldn’t be where I am now. My training partners
are in there with me six days a week. They don’t let me
slide and make sure I work hard every day.
Source: ADCC
|
Alessio
out of KOTC!
Los Angeles - Official word is now available that KOTC Welterweight
Champion John Alessio from Bad Intentions/Millennia Jiu-Jitsu
is not only off this weekend’s pay-per-view card but that
he has also relinquished the belt. John was scheduled to defend
his title against American Top Team’s Jorge Santiago, ranked
the #2 contender for the belt. No confirmation is currently available
regarding who Santiago’s replacement will be and if it will
be for the now vacated belt.
Alessio’s
abdication brings a sad close to the saga of Millennia Jiu-Jistu’s
reign in KOTC. At one point two years ago Alessio held the KOTC
Superfight belt as well as the UCC (now TKO) Welterweight belt
while teammates Romi Aram and Javi Vazquez held the KOTC Welterweight
and Lightweight belts respectively. Romi was stripped of the
Welterweight belt when he fought in the UFC while Vazquez lost
the Lightweight belt in a defense against Alberto Crane when
he tore his ACL, both in February of 2003. The previous month
Alessio lost the UCC belt to Jason Black. This triple blow left
Millennia holding just Alessio’s Superfight belt.
The
vacant Welterweight belt was won by Ronald Jhun in May of last
year when he defeated Shonie Carter but he lost the belt to Alessio
in his first defense in September at which point the Superfight
belt was combined with the Welterweight belt. Alessio was supposed
to defend the belt against Santiago back in February of this
year until Alessio broke a collar bone in training. Now the belt
is once again vacant. So far the KOTC Welterweight belt has only
been successfully defended once by Joe Hurley with all the other
champions either failing to defend it or vacating it to move
on.
More
details are expected in the next 48 hours.
Source: ADCC
|
Quote
of the Day
Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence.
Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men
with talent.
Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb.
Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts.
Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent.
Calvin Coolidge, 1872-1933, Thirtieth President of the USA
|
Jungle
Fight 3: Jacare vs. Jonstomp
Wallid
Ismail has plenty of time to plan and work on his next MMA show,
but he is too anxious to wait until October: Scheduled to be
held in Manaus (Amazonas, Brazil) again, Jungle Fight 3 has one
more hot match announced by Ismail: Ronaldo Jacare against Frenchmen
Boris Jonstomp, both winners at 2nd Jungle Fight, in May 16th.
The announcement was made just after the black belt Ronaldo got
the gold in the BJJ Brazilian Champion, last Sunday, in the light-heavyweight
category.
“We
are already setting the dates for next Jungle Fight. We had planned
the show to be in September 24th, but we changed it to October
16th in order to avoid the K-1 calendar, so Inoki is able to
be in Brazil”, said Ismail.
The
first fight confirmed at the Inoki & Wallid show is Carlos
Barreto vs. Travis Wiuff. Even though he was defeated in the
last event by Fabricio Werdum, ‘Pit Bull’ Ebenezer
Fontes Braga is also confirmed in the 3rd edition of Jungle Fight.
“Ronaldo Jacare and Carlao Barreto won’t be the only
ones to be back: Ebenezer, Werdum, Fredson Paixao and Gabriel
Napao did great exhibitions and I want they all fighting again
in Jungle 3”, said Wallid.
Source: ADCC
|
CLASSIC
QUINTON JACKSON
It will go down as one of the best interviews we have ever done
on MMAWeekly Radio. Quinton Jackson was in rare form on yesterdays
show where he addressed plenty of topics. Who was the toughest
fight in his career, why he has changed game plans for Ricardo
Arona, and hear his tyraid as Rampage goes off on Matsui and
Lee Murray. Let's just say if you missed his radio appearance
yesterday it will be well worth your time to listen to the radio
archive today.
Jackson
has been very busy as of late. He has recently released a DVD
titled, Rampage Unchained, he has a documentary film on the Homeless
to be released July 1st, and is running a contest to give an
opportunity for a fan to accompany him to Japan and be his waterboy.
He spoke about all of the above as well as his upbringing.
This
is simply a brief recap of what Quinton had to say. To hear all
of his half hour interview, listen to yesterday's radio show
in the archive. It is an instant classic.
After
spending time in Los Angeles, Jackson noticed the amount of homeless
living on the streets. He had never seen so many homeless in
one place and wondered what circumstances led these people to
such a life. He went out and asked them. "Rampage"
interviews many homeless people that will be featured in a documentary
called, "City of Lost Souls: The L.A. Homeless."
"I
thought it would be a good way to maybe keep some kids from following
their footsteps and making the same mistakes they did,"
stated Jackson. After conducting the interviews, Quinton began
to notice a reoccurring theme. "A lot of people got in that
position because of drugs." He went on to warn, "Don't
ever even think about trying crack.....it will take everything
away from you."
Jackson
comes from a broken home and is an admitted "street thug."
During much of his childhood, he didn't have a father at home
and by the age of eight, he was wheeling and dealing for the
fast cash. He would continue this lifestyle until he was 15.
He never joined a gang or got involved in drug use so it could
have been worse but it wasn't all that good either.
When
asked what made him change, "Rampage" told about friends
of his going to jail and others who died. He commented, "I
just wanted something better." He began to wrestle, his
school work improved and he would go on to attend college. An
injury while training didn't allow his college wrestling to flourish.
He did have a friend, a fellow wrestler, who was also involved
in Martial Arts. When Quinton witnessed an MMA event live, he
was hooked. The rest is history.
"Rampage"
has to be one of, if not the most fan friendly fighters in MMA.
He put out his phone number (714-465-6794) for his fans to call.
The way Quinton sees it is, "If you are a fan, you're a
friend." In addition to that, he has put together a contest
that will give one lucky fan the opportunity to travel to Japan
with Quinton to be his waterboy for a fight. He wants to give
a fan, who wouldn't normally have the chance to go to Japan,
an opportunity to witness the awe of a Pride event in person.
Jackson
was supposed to face Ricardo Arona in the first round of the
last years Grand Prix but an injury to Arona just days before
the event, left him facing Murilo Bustamante. Now, Jackson will
pit his skills against Arona on June 20th. He said, this time,
his strategy isn't the same as he had if they were to have met
last year. He thinks his new strategy is "better."
When
asked what he expects, "Rampage" replied, "I expect
to win the motherf@#%ing fight. I ain't going all the way over
to Japan to lose." He added, "I don't want a decision."
In a night were the second round of the heavyweight Grand Prix
will play out to it's conclusion, Quinton and Ricardo may steal
the show.
There
was plenty more as he spent a half hour on the show, not to mention
his verbal assault on Matsui and Lee Murray is a must listen
for any MMA fan. Check it out on the radio archive. Monday's
show will go down as one of the best interviews you will hear
and if you haven't done it yet, get yourself a Premium Membership.
For only five dollars a month, you gain access to the radio archive,
our video library of one on one interviews, behind the scenes
coverage of weigh-ins and press conferences, Tips of the week
from the top fighters in Mixed Martial Arts and so much more.
With UFC 48 and the Pride Grand Prix less than two weeks away,
there is no better time to become a Premium Member.
Source:
MMA Weekly
|
RANDLEMAN
VS FEDOR IS ON...
There has been much speculation regarding the future fight between
Randleman vs Fedor in the Pride Grand Prix. MMAWeekly has learned
that the fight will take place as scheduled.
Fedor
is coming off a car accident where some reports stated he was
hurt in the crash. Randleman of course lost his father this past
weekend and it was unknown if he would still fight.
One
Pride official told MMAWeekly "Fedor was in an accident
(but it wasn't as bad as first thought) and Randleman's dad did
pass away but the fight is on."
Source: MMA Weekly
|
SYLVIA
READY FOR ANOTHER CHAMPIONSHIP RUN
Tim Sylvia, former UFC heavyweight champion, returns to the Octagon
June 19th, at UFC 48, to face Frank Mir for the vacant title.
Sylvia
could be one of the few fighters in the world that truly loves
to train. Sylvia told MMAWeekly, "How can you not love to
train and get better." One of the best assets Sylvia has,
is his access to heavyweight training partners. Tim has the privilege
of training with Justin Eilers, Sam Rockwell, Mike Whitehead,
and Nate Schroeder, who are all heavyweights, along with the
other Miletich fighters. Tim said that anyone of those guys are
as good, if not better, than the guys he has faced in the octagon.
Sylvia
feels ready to gain back a belt that he feels belongs around
his waist. Sylvia talked about his opponent, Frank Mir, and gave
his prediction for the fight.
Tim
said, "Mir's a good fighter with good Jiu-Jitsu skills".
That's pretty much where the compliments stopped. Sylvia thinks
Frank's endurance needs some work and questioned Mir's heart.
He added that he doesn't think Frank Mir brings anything more
than Ricco Rodriguez did, but Tim isn't underestimating Mir.
In fact, Tim said he doesn't over look anybody.
When
asked if he is worried about Mir getting him to the ground, Tim
commented, "If he couldn't finish Wes Sims, he's not going
to finish me." He also stated that he has the skills to
submit Mir if it came to that.
Tim
isn't going to go to the ground to prove anything. He wants to
keep the fight standing and make Mir work for everything he gets.
"I'm going to knock him out, plain and simple," was
Tim's prediction of what is going to happen in the octagon on
June 19th. "That's my belt," he added.
Sylvia's
teammate and fellow former UFC champion Matt Hughes will be fighting
on the same UFC 48 card and Tim said Hughes is doing good. He
actually thinks the loss to BJ Penn was good for Matt and that
we will see the old Matt Hughes in there against "Charuto"
Verissimo.
Tim
Sylvia was on Friday's radio show and if you want to hear more
of what he said, get yourself a Premium Membership. For only
five dollars a month, you gain access to the radio archive, our
video library of one on one interviews, behind the scenes coverage
of weigh-ins and press conferences, Tips of the week from the
top fighters in Mixed Martial Arts and so much more. With UFC
48 and the Pride Grand Prix less than two weeks away, there is
no better time to become a Premium Member.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
BARNETT
LOOKING FOR AN OPPONENT
You've heard the rumors and MMAWeekly has learned that it is
true, Tim Lajcik will not be facing Josh Barnett for the Open-Weight
King of Pancrase Title at Pancrase’s first show in Seoul,
South Korea on July 17th.
Originally
Lajcik had posted on MMA.tv’s Underground Forum that he
was dropping out of the fight due to a shoulder injury.
MMAWeekly
spoke with an individual close to the situation and confirmed
that Lajcik, who is coming off of a shoulder surgery, “didn't
feel he was up to fighting.” According to our source, “Why
he signed the contract to fight Josh in that condition we don't
know.”
Barnett
is scheduled to be on MMAWeekly Radio this Thursday and we will
hope to shed light on who his opponent may be. Word has it that
Barnett would like to face Ron Waterman who is coming off of
a submission victory over Keigo Takamori at Pancrase’s May
28th show.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
AERTS
INJURY
K-1
announced to the Japanese media that Peter Aerts suffered a broken
toe in his victory over Gary Goddridge yesterday, and that he
will need at least one month for it to heal.
Aerts
is scheduled to appear on K-1's show in Seoul, South Korea, on
July 17th.
Source: Fight Sport
|
Quote
of the Day
"Worrying does not empty tomorrow of its troubles, it empties
today of its strength."
Anonymous
|
KICKIN
IT 2004 - PART II
WHAT: Amateur Kickboxing
WHEN: June 26, 2004
WHERE: Palama Settlement Gym
FEATURED KICKBOXING CLUBS: Animal House- Bulls Pen- Ewa Beach
Fight Club- Hard Knocks- Hawaiian Self Defense- H.M.C.- Team
Bad Intentions- Monroe Kickboxing- Waianae Kickboxing Club
Doors will open at 6:00 p.m.
Source:
Promoter |
Brazilian
Portuguese Classes are Starting Again!
Farrington Community
School for Adults is offering conversational Brazilian
Portuguese language classes, once a week, beginning Saturday,
August 13, 2003.
Instructor-Sandy
Tsukiyama de Oliveira
(DOE teacher, member-Hawaii Interpreters & Translators Assn.,
Leader,
vocalist-Mistura Brazilian Jazz Band)
The Brazilian Portuguese
program at FCSA has been ongoing for over 3 years.
Teaching materials-
Photocopied pages from the textbook, Fala Brasil!
Purchase of two additional books, 501 Portuguese Verbs, and Portuguese
Verbs &
Essentials is recommended. Both available at Borders Books &
Music. Also
available from instructor, casssette tapes of textbook dialogues
& drills.
Please call FCSA
for details on registration & fees. 832-3595.
Located on the campus of Farrington High School, in the heart
of beautiful,
central Kalihi, corner N. King & Kalihi Sts.
|
Super
Brawl Match Ups!
Get
your tickets now before it is too late!
Pairings
for the Super Brawl/Extreme Challenge 155-pound 8-man tournament,
scheduled for June 18 at the Blaisdell Arena in Honolulu:
FIGHT
1: Bart Palaszewski (8-3) vs. Kolo Koka (8-5)
FIGHT
2: Roger Huerta (9-0-1) vs. Harris Sarmiento (10-7)
FIGHT
3: Justin James (6-4) vs. Dain Agbayani (4-4)
FIGHT
4: Ryan Schultz (6-2) vs. Mike Aina (1-0)
PREVIOUS SB/EC
Tourney winners
(with other notables in parentheses)
1999:
Josh Barnett (Bobby Hoffman, John Marsh, Heath Herring, Travis
Fulton, Rico Rodriguez)
2002:
Tim Sylvia (Wesley "Cabbage" Correira, Travis Wiuff,
Ben Rothwell, Mike Whitehead)
2003:
Joe Doerksen (Jason Miller, Denis Kang, Brendan Seguin, Jay Buck)
Source:
ADCC |
PULVER
GETS READY FOR SHOOTO AND ANSWERS BJ'S CHALLENGE
Jens "Little Evil" Pulver spoke with MMAWeekly Friday.
He talked about his boxing match coming up on the 15th and his
fight with Stephen
Paling in Hawaii, July 9th. The most interesting topic discussed was the
encounter he and BJ
Penn had
in Las Vegas, at K-1's Battle at the Bellagio 2.
During
the event, Penn approaches Pulver and shakes his hand. BJ tells
Jens that they need to fight "sooner than later." Pulver
was quick to point out the irony of BJ wanting a rematch with
him and not giving his teammate Matt Hughes a rematch.
Later
in the evening, Penn and Pulver crossed paths again. BJ reiterated
that they need to fight sooner than later. Then, BJ told Jens
that he had better "be ready." Pulver was pretty animate
about the fact that he beat Penn at UFC 35 and BJ is the one
who needs to be ready. Jens said, "I'll fight him in a heartbeat,
I don't care," and that BJ got "smoked" last time.
As
previously mentioned, Jens is fighting Paling on July 9th. After
that, Jens wants to be the first fighter to win major titles
in the UFC and Japan. He made reference to knocking out Gomi
in the future and he went on to say, "If I ever get that
fake Hawaiian BJ, I'll knock him unconscious too." He said
that he would even do it in Rumble on the Rock, BJ's fight promotion.
This is a fight many feel is long overdue and I can't agree more.
There
was plenty more to this interview, including Tim Sylvia who talked
about fighting Frank Mir. If you missed the interview, click
on the radio archive and listen to it. Well worth the time.
Source:
MMA Weekly |
|
Rodrigo
'Comprido' waits for ADCC 2005 trials
In
2003, at the São Paulo edition of the Abu Dhabi Submission
Wrestling World Championships, Rodrigo 'Comprido' Medeiros lost
his second match in the 77 to 87 Weight Class (against Saulo
Ribeiro), and he also lost his first match in the Absolute Class
(against Alexandre Cacareco).
The
performance extremely disappoining for a two time Jiu-Jitsu World
Champion with a reputation for mastering the Absolutes. Comprido
also owns a rare JJ win over legendary Mario Sperry, but he states
'I fought so badly at ADCC 2003 that I don’t think the promoters
will invite me to fight next year'.
That’s
the reason that the training partner of ADCC World Champion Leozinho
Vieira has already started to train hard for the ADCC 2005 Brazilian
Trials. 'I will be working on establishing my new team, Brasa
Team (new name of Master academy) for the next edition of Abu
Dhabi. My teammates Ronaldo Jacare, Leo Vieira and others are
going to help in the preparation for the trials' hopes Comprido,
who is recovering from a knee injury.
Source:
ADCC |
Brazilian
Wander Braga ready to be
the King of the Cage!
Nowadays,
it is a difficult task to find an unbeaten fighter in the MMA
world. Even great champions like Wanderlei Silva, Rodrigo 'Minotauro'
Nogueira and Emelianenko Fedor have lost at least once.
Brazilian
Wander Braga is not part of this group yet! With 16 victories
in 16 fights, the 28 year old fighter has 16 years dedicated
to Jiu-Jitsu practice. He is working hard to keep an unblemished
record. His next challenge is a fight against the American fighter
Joe Camacho, scheduled to happen on Saturday (June 12th) in the
King of The Cage competition that will take place at the Soboba
Casino in San Jacinto, California.
Living
in United States since 2000, Braga took a break from his training
to share with us his expectations about this next bout. 'Joe
Camacho is a very experienced fighter. He is an Aloisio Silva´s
brown-belt who has a goog stiking game. He TKOed the Brazilian
Juliano Prado in KOTC 29. I respect him, but I will be ready
to beat him' said Wander.
A
good victory over Camacho on Saturday will be a crucial win for
Wander, whose aim is to be the Lighweight KOTC Champion. 'I´ve
been training really hard and I am feeling well. I´ve been
practicing wrestling (Team Raw), boxing and Jiu-Jitsu. I want
to be the KOTC Champion and we are negotiating the possibility
of transfering to UFC' stated Braga.
In
the main event of the night, John Alessio will dispute the Welterweight
belt with Jorge Santiago and Joe Stevenson takes on Randy Velarde
over the Lightweight.
Source:
ADCC |
BTT
Hosts PRIDE Management at Headquarters
On the 5th of June, Brazilian Top Team headquarterz was invaded
by a Japanese squad! The BTT tainning camp could easily have
been mistaken for a location in Tokyo. We had more than 30 Japanese
visitors ranging from Pride officials, to Fuji TV crew and translators.
Nobuyuki
Sakakibara was there to see Pride Interim Heavy Weight Champion
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira preparing himself fot the upcoming round
of the Pride GP. Sakakibara was definitely impressed with the
pace and intensity of Minotauro's training regimen. Pride producer
Nobuhiko Takada was also impressed with the training session,
not only because of the big stars participating in the training
drills, but he was also impressed by the number of professional
fighters in the same session. Friday's training sessions are
always busy, you can imagine what the attendence of the president
of the biggest MMA organization in the world would do. The official
number was 63 fighters: all of them full time fighters. From
63kg to 125kg, Mr. Takada was impressed that they all were training
very hard. Many of them were introduced to Pride officials and
some information about fighters was requested.
Everything
is pointing to the direction of a confirmation about Pride Bushido
4 featuring BTT X Japan, although as usual, Pride will take 2
weeks more to start to announce names. The pace of the training
may hint at which fighters have a chance to be performing at
Bushido 4 in Nagoya 19th July. Murilo Bustamante, who usually
would be coaching 'Minotauro', was training as hard as the Pride
champion.
But
the most impressive thing was how hard the light and welterweights
were training. Roan Jucao Carneiro, Junior Buscapé, Marcello
Melo, Fabio Melo, Hudson Rocha, just to name a few. This might
reveal that Pride will have one of them to represent the team
against the Japanese squad.
Source:
ADCC |
SAPP
TO MAKE BIG SCREEN DEBUT
K-1 megastar Bob "The Beast" Sapp will make his long
awaited motion picture acting debut alongside actress Jennifer
Garner in Elektra, a spin-off of last years Hollywood adaptation
of popular Marvel Comics title, Daredevil.
For
the last month, the 6 foot 4 inch, 360-pound former NFL lineman
turned K-1 martial arts fighter has been residing in Vancouver,
Canada, working on the set of the latest superhero adaptation
slated for release in February 2005. Sapp, who had repeatedly
mentioned the strong possibility of beginning a new career in
acting, spent a considerable amount of time on the set of the
film prior to his May 22nd bout with Japanese star, Kazuyuki
Fujita, during the K-1 Romanex event in Saitama, Japan.
Elektra
casts the 29-year-old Sapp as Stone, an evil assassin whose physique
is made of stone. Garner returns to the silver screen as Elektra
Natchios, the beautiful and deadly costumed assassin. The forthcoming
flick expands on a Daredevil storyline, whereby the lead woman
recovers from a near death experience to battle a clan of mystical
ninjas collectively known as The Hand. Sapp's character is a
member of the group.
Aside
from her starring role in Daredevil, the 32-year-old Garner received
acclaim for her performances in Hollywood blockbusters Pearl
Harbor and Catch Me If You Can. Her latest project, 13 Going
On 30, is playing in theatres nationwide and has grossed nearly
$55 million to date at the box office.
Sapp's
latest venture comes less than two years after the big man made
his splash debut in Japanese martial arts fighting competition.
His freakish size and strength quickly propelled him to larger
than life status in Japan where the native of Colorado Springs,
Colorado has appeared in over 200 television commercials and
as a guest on every major talk show. Sapp graced the cover of
TIME magazine Asia edition and has been hired as a spokesman
for a slew of Japanese consumer products ranging from ice cream
to bento boxes.
Sapp's
wild popularity caught the attention of the American media last
year prior to his United States fighting debut. After landing
on the cover of leading daily business periodical, The Wall Street
Journal, his story was covered in ESPN magazine, Muscle and Fitness,
and leading hip-hop publication, The Source. Both NBC's The Tonight
Show and FOX Sports Network's The Best Damn Sports Show, Period
welcomed Sapp as a guest last August.
Source:
MMA Weekly |
UPDATE
ON RANDLEMAN
MMAWeekly continues to follow the situation with Kevin Randleman.
If you weren't with us over the weekend, Randleman is dealing
with the passing away of his father.
Needless
to say it's been a very tough emotional time for Randleman. Randleman's
mentor, Mark Coleman talked briefly with MMAWeekly over the weekend.
Coleman
said, "It's obviously a tough time for Kevin. He has a lot
on his mind and I'm there for him as his friend.."
Coleman
said he is not only standing by as a friend, but as his coach
and Coleman thinks Randleman will still fight.
"Kevin
has always had to overcome difficult things in his life. He has
always done it and I believe he will do it again with this situation.
His father would want him to fight and I believe he will fight
against Fedor in Pride."
Coleman
will join MMAWeekly Radio later this week to talk more about
the situation and give an update about Randleman and his future.
Source:
ADCC |
Quote
of the Day
"A coach doesn't just help you 'dream' it. A good coach
helps you 'reach' it."
Shad Helmstetter, "Who Are You Really and What Do You Want?"
|
Daniel
Gracie talks about the challenge:
'Gracies versus Japan'
By: Gleidson Venga \ Team TATAME
The
Pride Bushido 3, following its 1º edition, had as the main
show the challenge between the Gracie family and the Japanese
fighters. This time Daniel Gracie didn´t go into the ring
to defend the name of his family, as he did last time:
'I
was supposed to be on that card, fighting against Yamamomoto,
but he got hurt.' explains Daniel.
Even
observing PRIDE from in Brazil, where he lives and has been training,
Daniel has studied the results:
Ricardo
Almeida is not exactly part of the Gracie family, but he´s
one of the top students under Renzo. The current middleweight
champion in Pancrase, Ricardo was the first one fighting for
the family and he had a tough opponent in his way, Ryo Chonan.
The Brazilian opened up the score for the Gracie side:
'Nowadays,
Ricardo is the most well prepared athlete in the MMA world'.
says Daniel. 'I was expecting this result'.
And
the biggest surprise of the event, the quick loss of Ralph to
Takaroni Gomi?
'Ralph´s
defeat sucks. I don´t know what people are saying, but
the guy was going for a kick to the waist and his knee hit Ralph´s
chin. That sucks!'
But
once again, the one who decided the confrontation was Ryan, facing
Ikuhisa Minowa, and scoring a 2x1 judges decison, sealing the
Brazilian victory:
'Ryan
is impressive, try to imagine what this guy would be like training?
Many people dislike him, but he´s damn good!'
But
the victory was even more celebrated due the conditions the athletes
were under when they went to Japan:
'The
result was pretty good, because none of them were 100%, except
for Ricardo Almeida.'
Looking
forward to his next fight, Daniel continues his strong training
schedule in Rio de Janeiro with the Gracie Barra Combat Team,
and he hopes to head back to the ring as soon as possible, and
warns, he wants to face the toughest opponents:
'I´m
putting on some weight now, I´m gonna be training in Rio
until my next fight, which may be in Pride Bushido, in July.
I will get there completely ready, I want to face anyone they
put in front of me. I´m expecting to face the 'gringos',
we´re done with the Japanese. I want to fight against the
top fighters, I´m more trained and self confident, I´ve
been getting way better in my standing game, which was impressive,
now I´m gonna train at the Gracie Barra and that´s
it, I´m ready to face anyone!'
Source:
ADCC |
Chute
Boxe 90210?
Chute Boxe continues globalization of team brand.
by Marcelo Alonso
Marcus
Vinícius, the owner of the famous Beverly Hills Jiu-Jitsu
Club, and Rudimar Fedrigo, the leader of the Chute Boxe Team,
have just set up a partnership to bring Chute Boxe's instruction
to the USA.
'Chute
Boxe and BHJJC are partners now. We will have an arrangement
for an area of Marcus Vinícius Academy where we will have
a black belt teaching Muay Thai and Vale-Tudo everyday. Our ground
training will be conducted by BJJ black belt Marcus Vinicius
himself' explained Fedrigo, who also welcomes anyone who to learn
Wanderlei´s world famous style in the USA can do so for
the next 40-60 days at the academy on Robertson street, in L.A.
'After
opening a branch in Spain, Japan we are very honoured to open
a headquarters in the USA too. Anyone who wants to join our team
is welcome'. declared Fedrigo.
Source:
ADCC |
Meca
FC XI - Quick Results
by: Luca Atalla
With
an audience full of stars from the MMA world, including several
representatives of Pride and the great BJJ Masters Helio and
Carlson Gracie, Meca XI has just finished in Teresopolis, Rio
de Janeiro!
Before
the fights Helio Gracie, who was honored by Meca promoters, grabbed
the
microphone and said to his many fans. 'I think this is the first
time I step into a ring without intending to fight' said Helio,
who lives in a city called Itaipava, a few kilometers away from
Teresopolis.
Considered
to be of the biggest MMA events in Brazil, Meca Fighting Championship
had three fights that ended in KO, three bouts finish by submission
and four were decided by judges decision.
LOOKING
TIRED After his debut in Pride Bushido 3 (13 days ago), the chuteboxer
Jorge Patino `Macaco´ returned to the Brazilian ring losing
to Delson 'Pe de Chumbo' in the event´s main fight. Macaco
was controlled for almost all the entire fight, but ended the
battle mounted in Pe. Althought Patino missed the opportunitty
to prove to Pride´s promoters his hearth, according to
his manager, Rudimar Fedrigo, they liked his fight so much in
Bushido 3 that he has assured another chance to fight in Japan.
Speaking
about the Land of the Rising Sun, the Japanese fighter Wataru
Takahashi had no trouble defeating Emerson Portilho in less than
1 minute. Takahashi is a Takada student who arrived in Brazil
last week with the Pride´s promoters.
Complete
Results:
- Luciano Azevedo submitted Suyan Queiroz with a triangle in
the 3R
- Fabricio Monteiro KOed Antonio Tello with series of punches
in the 1R
- Gustavo Ximu defeated Nilson de Castro by judges decision
- Wataru Takahashi submitted Emerson Portilho with a guillotine
choke in the 1R
- Alex Gaze KOed Andre Jacao Bispo in the 3R
- Luis Brito defeated Junior Besouro by doctor stoppage in the
2R
- Ivan Batman defeated Alexandre `Baixinho` Barros by judges
decision
- Milton Vieira submitted Jadyson Costa with a spinning choke
in the 1R
- Tony DeSousa defeated Luiz Azeredo by judges decision
- Daniel Acacio TKOed (kick) Erick Tavares in the 1R
- Delson Pe de Chumbo defeated Jorge Patino ´Macaco´
by judges decision
Source:
ADCC |
K-1
World GP 2004 in Nagoya Results
Date: June 6, 2004
Location: Nagoya Rainbow Hall in Nagoya, Japan
Results:
-
Carter Williams defeated Petr Vondracek via Referee Stoppage
in 1:57 of Round 2.
-
Michael McDonald defeated TAKERU via KO in 1:15 of Round 2.
-
Xhavit Bajrami defeated Martin Holm via 3-0 Decision.
-
Tom Erikson defeated Jan "The Giant" Nortje via KO
in 0:55 of Round 1.
-
Peter Aerts defeated Gary Goodridge via KO in 1:40 of Round 3.
-
Alexey Ignashov defeated "King" Arthur Williams via
KO in 1:48 of Round 1.
-
Remy Bonjasky defeated Francois Botha via 3-0 Decision.
-
Musashi defeated Ray "Merciless" Mercer via 3-0 Decision.
Source:
MMA Fighting |
K-1
Fighters Frustrate Boxers In Nagoya
June 6, 2004
Nagoya, Japan
By Monty DiPietro
NAGOYA, June 6, 2004 -- Musashi beat former Olympic Boxing Gold
Medallist Ray "Merciless" Mercer of the United States
in the main event as K-1 fighters turned aside their boxer opponents
at the Aruze K-1 World GP 2004 in Nagoya.
The
one-match event brought 16 fighters from 10 countries to Japan's
third-largest city, with winners receiving consideration for
further World GP 2004 elimination tournaments. Several of the
bouts paired boxers with established K-1 fighters.
Japanese
Seidokaikan fighter Musashi surprised many when he beat Ray Sefo
and Peter Aerts before losing by decision to Remy Bonjasky at
last year's K-1 World Grand Prix Tokyo Dome Final. Unquestionably
Japan's strongest K-1 fighter, Musashi faced a formidable boxer
here in Mercer.
With
a number of boxers making their K-1 debuts, there was something
of a shoe issue in the days leading up to the event. Explained
K-1's Game Producer Nobuaki Kakuda: "Some of the boxers
asked if they could wear their [laced, semi-rigid-soled] boxing
shoes. At the rule meeting, we decided to allow them to do so
if they did not throw any kicks."
At
the pre-event press conference, Mercer's trainer Michael Glynn
told reporters "Ray's not going to wear shoes, he's worked
on a few things, and he'll be kicking tomorrow!" But, after
a last minute change of heart, Mercer walked into the ring in
his familiar boxing shoes, and so was not to permitted to throw
leg strikes, only absorb them. And absorb them he did, over and
over and over again.
To
be fair, of the boxers who have tested K-1 of late, Mercer exhibited
a superior blocking technique. Although Musashi did score a down
in the first when he got a left high kick up to the side of the
American's head, Mercer generally had his right arm in position
to intercept what Musashi tossed up in that direction. Mercer
often stepped in here, throwing one-two left jabs then looking
for a place to plant his right. But defensively, Musashi was
equal to the task. And when Mercer was able to close the distance,
the two frequently ended up in the clinch.
Things
got interesting in the second when Mercer followed up some approach
jabs with a nice right uppercut, but by now Musashi's low kicks
were slowing Mercer down. Midway through the fight, after taking
a hard low kick then a knee, a frustrated Mercer hoisted Musashi
head over heels then tossed him to the canvas. This resulted
in a break of several minutes, and Mercer was assessed a yellow
card as Musashi recomposed.
The
third was slower, and although Mercer was favoring his left leg
in the late going, he did nonetheless continue moving forward,
and taunted Musashi a couple of times, dropping his guard and
inviting the Japanese fighter to mix it up. Musashi got a nice
combination in here, a left straight punch and low kick, and
rarely looked to be in any serious trouble. A tad showy at the
clapper with a dozen quick high kicks, Musashi did earn his comfortable
unanimous decision. Aside from his Tokyo Dome loss to Bonjasky,
Musashi is now undefeated in 13 K-1 fights dating back to a December
2002 dance with Jerome LeBanner.
After
accepting his trophy, Musashi addressed the fans from center
ring: "I wanted a KO here but I couldn't get it, sorry.
But, tonight we had boxing and K-1 compete, and you can see the
results. I hope Mike Tyson sees this as well. I've heard a lot
of talk about Bob Sapp wanting to fight Tyson, but let's not
forget the Japanese fighters, because I am ready to meet him!"
The
press room was surprised when, some 30 minutes later, Musashi
limped into the post-bout interview space with his left foot
iced and bandaged.
"I'm
on my way to the hospital for X-Rays," he said. "I
hurt my the top of my foot during the first round and it may
be broken. I couldn't stop, of course, because when I kicked
less, Ray came at me more. I think, like any boxer, he had a
problem with kicks, but he did deal with the pain well, he really
could take it."
Obviously,
so could Musashi.
In
Mercer's post-bout interview, a reporter asked him where it hurt:
"Where does it hurt?" he joked, "Where doesn't
it hurt, that's what you ought to ask! Seriously, though, it's
mostly the legs, and it's a pain like I've never felt before
in my life."
Source:
Sherdog |
|
UPDATE:
RAFIEL TORRE MURDER CASE
As
we approach the date of Rafiel Torre's preliminary hearing on
June 22, LukeBeston.NET has been informed that Rafiel Torre,
his wife Randi Torre and Angelina Richards were heavily involved
in the "swinging" and "wife swapping" scenes,
even as Richards was still married to her husband Bryan. In addition,
the three frequently used extacy and other recreational drugs.
Expect the prosecution to present this as evidence if the Torre
defense attempts to use Randi Torre as an alibi for Rafiel on
the night of the Murder.
Keep
checking LukeBeston.NET for more on the Rafiel Torre murder trial
in the coming months.
A
LukeBeston.NET exclusive--Must credit LukeBeston.NET when reposting,
rebroadcasting or in any other way reproducing this article in
part or in whole.
Source:
Luke Beston/Fight Sport |
THE
CANDYMAN: 'BARONI IS AN ASS CLOWN'
By Scoop McTroll
"I'm
young, I'm fast, I'm pretty and I cant possibly be beat".
Those famous words of Muhammed Ali come to mind when one gets
to see Dhira "The Candyman" Yesufu in action. The dynamic
fighter from California continued his rise to the top of the
middleweight rankings with a convincing defeat over previously
undefeated Muay Thai fighter Matt Hendricks at Total Combat 3
in Tijuana, Mexico last weekend.
MMA
Veterans such as Tank Abbott watched in awe as The Candyman applied
his trade. It was truly a great moment in MMA history, to be
there was probably like being present at a sparring session of
a 19 year old Muhammed Ali, spectators could definitely see star
quality in Yesufu. In his previous MMA fight, he submitted Sean
Betts, a tough California wrestler previously undefeated in MMA.
Dhira says that he has had many other fights that the fans don't
know about, he didn't tell us if he won them all but his whole
attitude said "what, are you kidding me?" at the mere
hint of any suggestion that he might have lost.
A
likeable and friendly Yesufu took some time out to answer a few
questions for his growing legion of fans around the world on
the road to capturing the UFC Middleweight Title. When we asked
Yesufu about the UFC Middleweight title and the fighters he needs
to go through to win it he told us, "Baroni is an ass clown"
and "my style would give Matt Lindland the most trouble".
He told us that he admires Murrilo Bustamante and Lee Murray,
this is no surprise because his style resembles a combination
of both of their styles. Amazing ground skills with lethal striking
skills. The Candyman is ready and willing to meet any of them
in the Octagon however.
I
asked The Candyman if he would still fight in the UFC, if they
offered him a low amount of money, and like the true warrior
he is, he told me that "only a fool would refuse an offer
in the UFC. I would accept.". Yesufu knows that once he
gets his first fight in the UFC he will get his first win. From
then on it’s all the way to the top for Dhira
"The Candyman" Yesufu. The Candyman is also considering
going into the KOTC to polish his skills and notch up a few easy
wins but clearly his sights are set on the UFC and capturing
its Middleweight Title.
Dhira,
who is reluctantly accepting his moniker of "The Candyman",
a name given to him by his fans, at first seemed bewildered by
the nickname. Noone seems to know quite why it was coined, although
it could be due to way he sweet talks the ladies at the fight
shows or it could be his sweet style of both ground fighting
and stand-up.
Dhira
had this message for his fans;
"It
humbles me beyond words. I mean with all the threads dedicated
to me here, and all the support I've received, how can I not
be touched? The sincerity of the turnaround here.....touches
my heartstrings deeply. I am very devoted to my fans."
Dhira
"The Candyman" Yesufu is the real deal and should be
coming to a UFC near you in the near future.
Source:
Fight Sport |
Quote
of the Day
"Your only obligation in any lifetime is to be true to yourself.
Being true to anyone else or anything else is...impossible."
Richard Bach, Author, Illusions
|
PULVER
SOUNDS OFF ON BJ PENN
If you missed yesterday's radio show, do yourself a favor and
listen to the Radio Archive. Tim Sylvia talked about his fight
with Frank Mir, two weeks from today, and there was also a brief
conversation with Jens Pulver that turned into fireworks.
Pulver's
improptu performance is what many MMA fans are talking about
when Pulver called out BJ Penn. "Little Evil" called
Penn out after a confrontation at the Bellagio hotel where Pulver
was tired of hearing that BJ wanted to fight him. There were
some words said about the situation from Pulver and you can hear
it right now on the radio archive at MMAWeekly.
Source:
MMA Weekly |
Monday
Night Fights 2
"False Crack Mondays"
July 26.2004 @ Volcanoes Night Club
Toughman Style
3 4-Man Tournament
We will be hosting Toughman style fights in these divisions Welterweight
(170lbs & Under), Heavyweight (265lbs & Under) and Unlimited
(265lbs & up). Winners of the tournament will receive a Championship
Belt. We encourage everyone to participate.
If interested call 808-330-4483 or email second2none@hawaii.rr.com.
All fights will be 3 rounds with 1 miunte rounds, weigh-ins will
be the day before at a place to be announced later.
THERE WILL BE NO ENTRY FEE REQUIRED!!!
Source:
Event Promoter |
Super
Brawl/Extreme Challenge
155-pound 8-man tournament Match ups
Pairings for the Super Brawl/Extreme Challenge 155-pound 8-man
tournament,
scheduled for June 18 at the Blaisdell Arena in Honolulu:
FIGHT
1: Bart Palaszewski (8-3) vs. Kolo Koka (8-5)
FIGHT
2: Roger Huerta (9-0-1) vs. Harris Sarmiento (10-7)
FIGHT
3: Justin James (6-4) vs. Dain Agbayani (4-4)
FIGHT
4: Ryan Schultz (6-2) vs. Mike Aina (1-0)
PREVIOUS SB/EC
Tourney winners
(with other notables in parentheses)
1999:
Josh Barnett (Bobby Hoffman, John Marsh, Heath Herring, Travis
Fulton, Rico Rodriguez)
2002:
Tim Sylvia (Wesley "Cabbage" Correira, Travis Wiuff,
Ben Rothwell, Mike Whitehead)
2003:
Joe Doerksen (Jason Miller, Denis Kang, Brendan Seguin, Jay Buck)
Source:
Super Brawl |
Sturm
Rolls Snake Eyes with Vegas Judges; September Superfight Intact
De La Hoya & Hopkins Win
By Thomas Gerbasi
If Oscar
De La Hoya didn’t know who Felix Sturm was before their
WBO middleweight title bout tonight at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas,
he certainly does now.
It
was Sturm that gave "The Golden Boy" perhaps the toughest
fight of his career, yet ended the 12 round bout without his
title intact, as De La Hoya scored a questionable unanimous decision
over the fighter who was the only one standing in the way of
a September Superfight between De La Hoya and Bernard Hopkins,
who defended his undisputed title earlier with a decision over
Robert Allen.
"Everything went wrong tonight," said a downcast De
La Hoya after the bout. "What can I say? I stepped in the
ring, and ‘boom’ nothing."
All
three judges scored it 115-113 for De La Hoya, who improves to
37-3 with 29 KOs in his middleweight debut. Sturm suffers his
first loss, falling to 20-1 with 9 KOs.
"I
know Oscar is a big name here and a great champion," said
the 25-year-old Sturm. "But tonight I think the whole world
saw who was the better fighter."
"It
was a very close fight, let’s put it that way," said
De La Hoya, who will now face Hopkins on September 18 in the
same MGM Grand ring tonight’s doubleheader was held in.
De La Hoya did not back down from the fight in anyway in a post-fight
interview.
"I’m
all about challenges," said De La Hoya. "What I’m
very disappointed in is my performance. I know I can do better."
For
his part, Hopkins had some shaky moments in his dressing room
before the decision in De La Hoya’s fight was announced.
"My
blood pressure went up slightly," he smiled.
Looking
to test the middleweight waters immediately, De La Hoya came
out throwing hooks to the body. Sturm was undeterred, shooting
out a stiff jab, and even landing a quick uppercut on the inside.
Sturm
continued to land solidly in the first, surprising many, especially
De La Hoya, who nonetheless flurried effectively as the round
ended before going back to his corner with a bloodied nose.
"The
Golden Boy" went to his jab in the second round, while still
working the body when Sturm got close. The German’s jab
was even stronger and more accurate though, and it was obvious
that the WBO titlist had come to America to win.
Sturm
continued to land with alarming frequency in the third, but De
La Hoya gave as good as he got, especially to the body. Nonetheless,
it was rare to see De La Hoya take as many shots as he did.
De
La Hoya opened the physical distance between the two in the fourth,
but the lanky Sturm was still able to land solid shots, at least
until the final stages of the round, when the veteran stole the
round with a solid flurry of power blows.
Perhaps
buoyed by his strong finish in the fourth, De La Hoya kept throwing
in the fifth, putting his combinations together beautifully as
he looked to establish control of a fight that was basically
up for grabs. And by the time the bell rang, De La Hoya had his
most effective round in the bank.
The
Hamburg native got back on track in the sixth and seventh rounds,
and the two, while fighting tactically, still shot off enough
punches to keep the crowd into the fight. The story of the fight
at this point though, was Sturm’s accuracy versus De La
Hoya’s work rate.
De
La Hoya appeared to slow down in the eighth, and Sturm, while
not overly active, may have done enough to grab the round on
the scorecards.
With
the smell of an upset in the air, Sturm quietly controlled the
ninth round, and De La Hoya’s work rate dipped.
His
right eye rapidly swelling, De La Hoya showed little urgency
in the tenth, and even when he did briefly open up, either Sturm’s
counters or his tight defense left "The Golden Boy"
frustrated.
As
if eating Sturm’s jabs all night wasn’t enough, De
La Hoya had to deal with his opponent turning to a southpaw stance
in the eleventh. But De La Hoya responded well with some flurries,
at least until Sturm started firing back on his rapidly tiring
foe.
Sensing
his September superfight with Hopkins was slipping away, De La
Hoya fired whatever he had left in the 12th round, but Sturm
was unmoved, with his solid defense frustrating the East Los
Angeles native. And as the round ended, it was Sturm showboating
and celebrating, not De La Hoya, and certainly not Hopkins.
In
the end, though, for the De La Hoya and Hopkins camps, it was
much ado about nothing.
Bernard
Hopkins kept his end of the September bargain with a 12 round
unanimous decision over Robert Allen, a bout that resembled a
Delaware sparring session more than a championship fight. I would
have said a Philadelphia sparring session, but Allen wasn’t
that competitive.
Scores
were 119-107 twice, and 117-109 for Hopkins, who improves to
44-2-1 (31 KOs) while defending his undisputed middleweight crown
for the 18th time. Allen, who had a 1998 no contest and a 1999
seventh round KO loss in his previous two bouts with "The
Executioner", falls to 36-5 (27 KOs).
"I
wanted to take my time and I wanted to be careful," said
Hopkins, who admitted he was nervous about the outcome of his
bout as well as that of the headlining bout involving Oscar De
La Hoya. "There’s a lot at stake. All of this on the
line, it only takes one shot."
Referee
Joe Cortez, whose selection had Hopkins threatening to pull out
of the bout as late as Friday morning, was a non-factor in the
bout, and the pre-fight furor produced more action than the actual
fight did.
"Cortez
refereed a great fight," said Hopkins.
With
the crowd booing from the midway point of the first, the requisite
amount of holding and hitting, punching on the break, and bad
blood usually evident in a Bernard Hopkins fight made its appearance.
As far as conventional boxing, Hopkins held the edge as he felt
Allen out.
In
the second, Hopkins, one of the game’s masters of the dark
arts, spun Allen into a quick flurry and sent him to the canvas
moments later with a trip that was correctly not called a knockdown
by referee Joe Cortez.
Allen
finally landed a clean shot in the third, a right that momentarily
stopped Hopkins’ movement. But without any follow-up, any
momentum gained by Allen was lost, and Hopkins went back to potshotting
from a distance.
The
dance continued in the fourth, with Hopkins doing little, and
Allen, as the challenger, doing even less. Allen lost a point
for low blows without a warning early in the fifth, not really
an issue when the Atlanta resident was already far behind on
the scorecards.
Hopkins
landed a series of effective rights at different points of the
sixth, but his refusal or inability to throw combinations kept
the dreary bout going, much to the dismay of ringsiders.
Finally
in the seventh, a big right by Hopkins put Allen on the canvas.
Hopkins jumped on Allen with a flurry of leather, and after a
brief respite, started digging hooks to the body. But by the
end of the round, Allen had survived – barely.
With
trainer Byron Oglesby telling him "that was your wake-up
call", Allen actually landed a solid left and right on Hopkins
as the eighth began, and the crowd finally woke up as well. The
heated action was short lived though, as the round concluded
with the same pattern of Allen walking forward aimlessly and
Hopkins moving around the ring while occasionally tossing in
a shot or two.
After
another dismal frame in the ninth, Hopkins went back to his body
attack in the tenth, and his follow-up head shots hurt Allen,
who fought with little urgency despite being far behind on the
scorecards.
The
championship rounds were anything but, as Allen fought as if
he were already winning the fight, not losing it by a landslide.
As for Hopkins, he put in six more minutes of work on his 39-year-old
body as he prepared for the Promised Land in September against
De La Hoya.
In
the HBO pay-per-view opener, Jose Luis Castillo regained the
lightweight title with a punishing 12 round unanimous decision
over Juan Lazcano.
Scores
were 117-111, 116-112, and 115-113 for Castillo, who regains
the WBC lightweight title he had lost to Floyd Mayweather Jr.
in 2002.
After
a slow first round that saw both men trying to find their bearings,
Castillo attempted to close the distance a bit more aggressively
in the second, but Lazcano used an effective jab and movement
to keep the Mexicali resident at bay
In
the third, Lazcano did his best to pick up the pace, but a minute
in, he caught a solid left hook from Castillo, who soon had "The
Hispanic Causing Panic" bleeding from the nose. Lazcano
didn’t back off though, bloodying Castillo’s nose in
return as the promised action finally heated up, only to dip
back to a more measured pace in the fourth as both tried to impose
their fight plans on the other.
At
trainer Joe Goossen’s urging, Lazcano started the fifth
in aggressive fashion, but the harder punching Castillo eagerly
obliged with short hooks to the head and body that continued
to re-arrange Lazcano’s features.
Most
of the sixth was fought on the inside, and Lazcano scored his
best shots of the fight, two successive left hooks that put Castillo
on his heels momentarily. Yet by the end of the round Castillo
was firing back with his own hooks in what was slowly becoming
a grueling battle.
Lazcano
scored with the hook and straight right efficiently in the seventh
as well, and even made sure to follow up after landing, unlike
his work in the earlier rounds. And though he wasn’t hurting
Castillo, he was scoring, even though his foe was scoring and
hurting him.
Some
of the best sustained action of the fight took place in the eighth
stanza, with each bloodied battler landing thudding shots, and
Castillo holding a slight edge over the course of three minutes.
With
little over a minute left in the ninth round, another round of
brutal attrition, Lazcano popped Castillo with a straight left
that sent the former world champion into the ropes and almost
on the floor, but Castillo roared right back with his own attack
to prove not only that he wasn’t hurt, but that he was the
superior lightweight.
Castillo’s
pressure carried the tenth round, and in the eleventh, his body
attack finally appeared to have gotten to a weary Lazcano. And
though the punishment kept coming, Lazcano gamely fought back,
even though Castillo has left his face nearly unrecognizable,
with two badly swollen eyes and blood coming from the nose and
mouth.
With
three minutes left to pull the fight out, Lazcano tried hard
in the closing moments to gain the victory, but without the firepower
to hurt Castillo, the El Paso native was unable to pull out the
miracle finish.
With
the victory, Castillo ups his record to 50-6-1, with 45 KOs.
Lazcano falls to 33-3-1 with 25 KOs.
Source:
Maxboxing |
DSE
PRESIDENT NOBUYUKI SAKAKIBARA DISCUSSES SECOND ROUND MATCH UPS
DSE President Nobuyuki Sakakibara held a press conference recently
in Tokyo to announce the PRIDE GP 2004 2nd Round card.
“The
fans submitted their wishes to us through our (Japanese) home
page and at the Opening Round event.” Sakakibara continued,
“Their wishes included having people from the same team
and country fight each other and matchups between Nogueira, Fedor
and Ogawa. We mixed these desires with ours, as the promoter,
to come up with the August card.”
Will
Randleman steal the show again?
Fedor
Emelianenko VS Kevin Randleman
This
was the most-requested match-up by the fans. It’ll be a
battle between Fedor, who dominated Coleman in the Opening Round,
and Randleman, who took out Mirko, one of the 3 favored fighters,
with a single punch. Perhaps the fans are expecting another giant
upset. Super-human body or Fedor’s technique, which will
come out on top?
A
battle that will forever be written in PRIDE’s history…and
the rematch.
Antonio
Rodrigo Nogueira VS Heath Herring
The
date was November 3rd, 2001. The place was the Tokyo Dome. In
their first match up, Herring and Nogueira fought a war that
continues to be talked about today. The reason that Herring wants
fight in the PRIDE GP is to give payback to the Big 3. According
to Herring, he has the best chance of beating the Big 3 because
he is the only one that has fought them all. Will Herring be
able to defeat the man -the Champion- he lost to in 2001?
Judo
versus the Giant Naoya Ogawa VS Giant Silva
*Details
below
Will
the Russian commando take out his extra ordinary opponent?
Semmy
Schilt VS Sergei Kharitonov
Kharitonov
has arrived in the Heavyweight ranks, a line supported by Nogueira,
Herring and his opponent, Schilt. Kharitonov shows us why people
should fear his power in his Opening Round battle but it looks
like there’s still more to come. If he can beat Schilt,
he will be a solid candidate to take the entire GP. Schilt, coming
off a KO muay thai loss in Holland, said that this match would
be no problem for him. Will Kharitonov change the pecking order
or will Schilt put him in his place?
“The 2nd most requested fight was Ogawa VS Nogueira (6,678
votes).” Sakakibara explained, “We also wanted to see
this but we, as the promoter, also wanted both of these fighters
to remain. Bearing that in mind, we had to choose between Heath
(Herring)(4,876 votes) and Silva (4,332 votes). I don’t
think Heath has a decidedly physical or technical advantage in
any area over Ogawa. Accordingly, it’s easy to see what
a disadvantage anyone fighting Silva will face. Silva’s
is bigger and posses a lot of athletic ability. We felt that
if Ogawa and Heath faced off, it wouldn’t be very interesting,
so that’s how Silva was chosen.”
Although
it could be said that Ogawa has drawn the easiest of the remaining
fighters, Sakakibara warned that this was not the case, “As
you could see in his fight with Sentoryu in the Opening Round,
Silva’s ground technique is advancing. According to Silva
himself, vale tudo is a place where he can develop a new athleticism
within himself. He’s done many sports such as basketball
and pro-wrestling but he knows now that the one true way to use
his size is in PRIDE. Now he wants to be on top. He’s like
the REAL Andre The Giant. Everything about him is huge and if
he can put it all together, he will be a “giant” threat.”
Silva
said that his first PRIDE appearance, in the 2003 New Year’s
Eve show, woke up a hidden ability within him. He’s been
training in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, learning from one of Renzo Gracie’s
branch schools in New Jersey since the beginning of this year.
Renzo’s cousin and Silva’s instructor, Ricardo, gave
high ratings to the giant, “He’s serious and learns
quickly.”
When
Ogawa heard that Silva would be his opponent for the 2nd Round,
he didn’t really seem to care, “Anyone is fine. I’ll
train for that.”
The
card was originally scheduled to be announced last week but,
according to Sakakibara, it took time to put together the most
requested fight, Fedor VS Randleman, with 10,656 votes.
“We
really wanted to put the fans’ voices first and make this
a reality but it took a little time to work out with Randleman.
Although he went into those Mirko fight innocently, his victory
over Mirko raised his awareness that he could actually win the
GP. As a result, he wanted to avoid Fedor in the 2nd round but
he eventually agreed because otherwise it would be insulting
to Coleman.” Sakakibara also said that if Randleman can
take out a second of the Big 3, “there’s a good possibility
that he would challenge for the Heavyweight Title.”
Randleman,
Silva, Kharitonov and Heath will all be looking for upsets. Any
upset at this point could rocket a dark horse to contender ranking.
Will the 4 men be able to pull of upsets or will the favored
fighters take it all? This PRIDE GP 2004 cannot be missed.
<Additional
Notes>
The previously noted reserve fighter, Ron Waterman, was only
in reserve for the Opening Round. He does not remain a reserve
fighter throughout the Grand Prix. An appropriate reserve fighter
for the 2nd round will be selected from now.
Source:
Pride |
RANDLEMAN'S
FUTURE UNCERTAIN
MMAWeekly would like to send our thoughts and prayers to Kevin
Randleman and his family. Randleman lost his father to an apparent
heart attack. It's unknown if Randleman will be able to even
make the trip to Japan, let alone fight with the heavy emotional
burden of losing his father just 48 hours ago.
MMAWeekly
talked briefly with Hammer House teammate, Wes Sims, who told
MMAWeekly, "right now, him and Mark Coleman are talking
about their future, just making sure Kevin's head is alright."
MMAWeekly
would like to wish the best for Kevin and his family and we will
continue to follow the situation.
Source:
MMA Weekly |
SILVA
READY TO TRAIN FOR HORN
The following comes from our friends over at tatame.com
Announced
on June 26 Gladiator's card, Anderson Silva is going to Rio de
Janeiro to close his practice series before departing to South
Korea. Silva is arriving in Rio in the beginning of June and,
besides preparing himself for the tournament, he will help Rogério
Minotouro and Rodrigo Minotauro on their training. As Anderson,
Minotouro will fight in Korea and Rodrigo Minotauro is confirmed
on Pride GP Heavyweight second round, next June 20.
Anderson
doesn't confirm, but the Muay Thai Dream Team fighters probably
will face American Jeremy Horn, who has an impressive record
of 66 wins, 12 losses and five draws and was defeated by Renato
Babalú at IFC - Global Domination final round. Still in
Curitiba, Anderson is training badly, focused on Wrestling, Judo,
Jiu-Jitsu and just sharpening his Muay Thai techniques.
Since
he left Chute Boxe, Anderson is going to Rio frequently to train
with Nogueira brothers. He considers this interchange important
for the developing of the sport in Brazil. "We always have
to think on the developing of our techniques. I don't have any
intention to face any Brazilian fighter", states Silva,
who also do some practices with CWB people, in Curitiba.
Source:
MMA Weekly |
Shooto
World Ranking
May 2004
Bantamweight / -56kg
C Mamoru, Shooto Gym Yokohama, Japan
1 Robson Moura, Nova Uniao, Brazil
2 Junji Ikoma, Chokushinkai, Japan
3 Yasuhiro Urushitani, RJW Central, Japan
4 Homare Kuboyama, Shooto Gym K'z Factory, Japan
5 Masatoshi Abe, AACC, Japan
6 Hiroaki Yoshioka, Paraestra Tokyo, Japan
7 Takeyasu Hirono, Keishukai Gods, Japan
8 Ichaku Murata, New Ground, Japan
Featherweight
/ -60kg
C Ryota Matsune, Paraestra Matsudo, Japan
1 Kentaro Imaizumi, SK Absolute, Japan
2 Masato Shiozawa, Keishukai, Japan
3 Marco Louro, Nova Uniao, Brazil
4 Masahiro Oishi, Shooto Gym K'z Factory, Japan
5 Akitoshi Hokazono, Cobra-kai, Japan
6 Jin Akimoto, Akimoto Dojo Jungle Junction, Japan
7 Kimihito Nonaka, Purebred Omiya, Japan
8 Shuichirou Katsumura, Shooto Gym K'z Factory, Japan
9 Ryan Ackerman, Grappling Works, U.S.A.
10 Hudson Rocha, Brazilian Top Team, Brazil
Lightweight
/ -65kg
C Alexandre Franca Nogueira, World Fight Center, Brazil
1 Hiroyuki Takaya, Tanaka Juku, Japan
2 Joao Roaque, Nova Uniao, Brazil
3 Stephen
Paling, Jesus is Lord, U.S.A.
4 Norifumi 'Kid' Yamamoto, Purebred Tokyo, Japan
5 Hiroyuki Abe, AACC, Japan
6 Jens Pulver, Team Extreme, U.S.A.
7 Makoto Ishikawa, Purebred Omiya, Japan
8 Naoya Uematsu, Shooto Gym K'z Factory, Japan
9 Tetsuo Katsuta, Shooto Gym K'z Factory, Japan
10 Hideki Kadowaki, WKSS, Japan
Welterweight
/ -70kg
C Vitor Ribeiro, Nova Uniao, Brazil
1 Joachim Hansen, Team Scandinavia, Norway
2 Tatsuya Kawajiri, Team TOPS, Japan
3 Ryan Bow, Purebred Omiya, U.S.A.
4 Kaoru Uno, Keishukai, Japan
5 Takanori Gomi, Kiguchi Dojo Wrestling School, Japan
6 Luis 'Buscape' Firminho, Brazilian Top Team, Brazil
7 Marcio 'Cromado' Barbosa, Renovacao Fight Team, Brazil
8 Daisuke 'Amazon' Sugie, Alive, Japan
9 Takaharu Murahama, Gracie Barra VT Team, Japan
10 Mitsuhiro Ishida, Team TOPS, Japan
Middleweight
/ -76kg
C Vacant
1 Jake Shields, Cesar Gracie Academy, U.S.A.
2 Ray Cooper,
Jesus is Lord, U.S.A.
3 Akira Kikuchi, Shooto Gym K'z Factory, Japan
4 Jutaro Nakao, Shooto Gym Osaka, Japan
5 Ronald
Jhun, 808 Fight Factory, U.S.A.
6 Chris Lytle, Integrated Fighting Academy, U.S.A.
7 Manvel Gamburyan, Team Gokor, U.S.A.
8 Seichi Ikemoto, Riroots Conan, Japan
9 Sauli Heilimo, Team Scandinavia, Finland
10 Shigetoshi Iwase, Team TOPS, Japan
Lightheavyweight
/ -83kg
C Masanori Suda, Club J, Japan
1 Dustin Denes, American Top Team, U.S.A.
2 Egan
Inoue, Grappling Unlimited, U.S.A.
3 Shiko Yamashita, Paraestra Sapporo, Japan
4 Martijn de Jong, Tatsujin Dojo, Holland
5 Scott Henze, Freelance, U.S.A.
6 Curtis Stout, American Jiu-Jitsu Academy, U.S.A.
7 Jon Fitch, Americn Kick Boxing Academy, U.S.A.
8 Shonie Carter, Shidokan U.S.A., U.S.A.
9 Ryuta Sakurai, R-Gym, Japan
10 Lance Gibson, Gibson Pankration Academy, Canada
Source:
International Shooto Commission |
|
II
Copa Adilsinho Amadeu Quick Results
The
First day of the II Copa Adilsinho Amadeu de Jiu-Jitsu took place
Saturday June 5th in Sao Paulo. The event professional event
with US$4,000.00 in prize money divided into two 8-men weight
divisions, light (under 79KG) and the heavies (over 79KG) with
the winners of each division fightign each other today to determine
the Grand Champion.
In
the light, Marcelo Garcia (Alliance) returned to form winning
the division by submitting all his opponents. In the heavies
it was Marcel Louzada (Brasa JJ Clube) winning it all. Each Champion
won aproximately $1,000.00 for their effort.
The
two will face each other on Sunday for an additional $600.00
and the overall title.
Source:
ADCC/Kid Peligro |
The
game is on! Pride vs K-1 MMA vs UFC!
by: Luca Atalla
The
challenge is on! When the K-1 organization decided to promote
an MMA show called Romanex, they stepped into dangerous territory:
Pride´s backyard! Now, these two big organizations appear
set to compete for the best fighters in the MMA world.
The
first big move was made by the K-1 promoters by signing undefeated
Rodrigo Gracie away from Pride.
And
now? Will the DSE do anything to fight back? What about UFC?
Is the American organization out of this race? This is the subject
of the of Brazil´s Gracie Magazine cover report that features
Bob Sapp, Sakuraba and Vitor Belfort as the cover boys. Inside,
there is also an exclusive interview with the managers of
K-1 and Pride where they reveal what they think may happen in
the future.
As
well as the dispute between the organizations, the June edition
also features an in depth look at the famous Japanese fighter
Kazushi Sakuraba, as well a look at the new lifestyle of Wallid
Ismail, Jungle´s Fight promoter. As always, exclusive pics
of the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu National Titles and the challenge
between Marcelo Garcia and Fernando Terere that took place in
Japan last May.
Check
it out now!
Source:
ADCC |
K-1
Kickboxing - This Weekend in Tokyo!
by: Marcello Tetel
DATE: JUN 6TH, 2004
PLACE: Nagoya Rainbow Hall - Nagoya, Japan
UPDATED
LINEUP (SUBJECT TO CHANGE):
- Petr Vondrachek x Carter Williams
- Takeru x Michael McDonald (replacing Gilbert Yvel)
- Martin Holm x Marvin Eastman
- Jan Nortje x Tom Erikson (replaces Naoufal Iron Leg)
- Gary Goodridge x Peter Aerts
K
1 X BOXING - MATCHES:
- Alexey Ignashov x 'King' Arthur Williams
- Franz Botha x Remy Bonjasky replaces Ernesto Hoost
- Musashi x Ray Mercer
Source:
ADCC |
Setting
The Tyson Myth Straight One More Time
By Aaron Imholte
"Iron" Mike Tyson
As you know, it is on. The Iron Mike comeback tour will hit the
road again on July 31st when he fights Phillip McBride. It is
supposedly the first step in what is rumored to be a three step
plan to win Mike another world title. Step two is supposed to
be a big money fight with Joe Mesi (if he fights again) and then
by the end of 2004, according to Freddie Roach, Mike is to challenge
for a world championship.
The
question is this: can he do it? It is all over the forums, chat
rooms, water coolers, and living room discussion. The answer
is not an easy one to make, there are Tyson fanatics who will
pounce on you if you say no, and Tyson haters who will mess you
up just as bad if you say yes. Me? I am a moderate Tyson fan,
but I cannot let that get in the way of my better judgment, so
I say this.
Tyson
will win a belt, IF he picks the right one to win. Stay away
from Vitali Klitschko, fight Brewster fight Ruiz and only fight
Byrd if you have to or if the money is right. As far as unifying
the belts go? Forget about it folks, he just can't do it anymore.
I am sorry Tyson fanatics but he cannot be the old "Iron"
Mike Tyson of the late 80's. He cannot go out and KO the top
heavyweight in 80 seconds (see the malicious beating Michael
Spinks received) and steamroll the division, I don't care how
weak it is. I also apologize to the Tyson haters but if Mike
picks his fights correctly he can win a couple fights and then
beat Ruiz or Brewster and possibly Byrd.
Let's
break down the two arguments and I will either concede that that
side has a point, or refute their point with a rebuttal of my
own. So here goes.
Tyson
fanatics point 1:
Mike still has the power and speed to dominate again!
Nonsense
and here is why. Mike might still be able to hit hard, but his
legs and arms are not near as quick and reactive as they used
to be. Tyson fanatics have this astounding inability to realize
that Tyson has gotten older. Time did not stand still for him.
He got older like everyone else and you must stop living in the
80's. His hand speed has diminished and his legs are older, and
as any 38 year-old will tell you, no matter how good of shape
they keep themselves in, your legs are starting to give a little
bit on you and your reflexes are not what they were at 25. As
far as him dominating again, he has too many ring miles on his
body and I will vomit if I hear people use the Etienne fight
as their precedent for Tyson being dominant. Etienne's heart
was not in winning the fight, it was in the payday. He gave Tyson
maybe 70%. Let's not forgot Etienne is a second tier fighter
at best.
Tyson
fanatics point 2:
The heavyweight division is the weakest it has been since Trevor
Berbick!
I
concede this one to you. That is why Mike will win 1 belt and
should call it a career. His bills should be paid and he can
put some money away that way. The division is weak, true, but
it is not weak enough for Tyson to dominate and pick up all four
belts. Not too mention time is not on his side. It would take
a year or two for Tyson to pick them all up, by that time he
would be 40 years-old and if a 40 year-old can become undisputed
champion, boxing is in worse shape then even the worse pessimists
thought.
Tyson
haters point 1:
Tyson is shot and has nothing left to give!
Not
totally true. Like Foreman at 44, I will always give Mike a puncher's
chance to beat a top contender and a champ or two. But they are
partially right, Tyson is losing his tools and needs to hurry
if he wants to accomplish his financial goals and become a champion.
Tyson
haters point 2:
Tyson doesn't want it anymore and has no heart!
I
reject that notion. Tyson is an enigma mentally I will give you
that, but under Roach's training regiments, Tyson has been worked
and has shown that he wants to get back in the ring and work
hard. If his heart were gone he would have quit after Roach reportedly
made him vomit in camp multiple times, but he got back in the
gym and finished his workout. Now I agree when he gets in the
ring and starts taking a few punches he could lose it and could
turn into a fiery wreck of human emotion, but we all know Mike's
heart is not gone.
Wow
that was work. I hope you Tyson haters and appreciators will
let me know what you thought. If I laid out both sides, broke
them down and came out with a fair yet honest and factual analysis
of Mike today and not the Mike of 15 years ago. But we will see
what happens. Who knows, maybe I will owe people an apology when
it is all over.
Source:
Doghouse Boxing |
|
MEET
CURTIS STOUT
Curtis
Stout will be going up against Trevor Prangley at UFC 48. Thursday,
he joined MMAWeekly SoundOff Radio and spoke about his fight
with Prangley, his fighting background and expectations in the
future.
Curtis
was supposed to be fighting Lee Murray and, was a little disappointed
that he won't be. He commented, "I honestly think, if I
would have fought Lee Murray, I think it would have been probably
the best stand up match in UFC history...somebody would have
definitely got knocked out." He went on to say, match up
wise, that he and Lee Murray were made for each other.
Well,
he isn't fighting Lee Murray, he is fighting Trevor Prangley.
He characterized Trevor as a strong guy with a good ground game,
throws looping punches and a tough fighter. He thinks it will
be a good fight but has every intention of knocking out Prangley.
He added, a "ref stoppage is good enough for me."
Stout
made his UFC debut in only his third professional Mixed Martial
Arts fight at UFC 30. He lost a unanimous decision to Phil Baroni
but said things will be different this time around. He said he
was "overwhelmed with the show and everything," and
got caught up in the trash talk of Baroni. Curtis is approaching
this fight, the Prangley fight, as just another match but is
excited about being back in the UFC.
Curtis
is coming in off four straight KO victories and said, "This
time, I have a lot more experience and I'm just ready to do my
thing." He added, "It's my time, I'm ready to shine
again." He attributes his recent success to better trainers
and, "it's all about experience."
Curtis
doesn't come from a Martial Arts background. He did train in
boxing when he was younger but never competed in it. He said
that he relied on his natural ability. Back in the early 90's,
he watched the UFC and "thought it was the greatest thing
in the world." He immediately started training and then
fighting. He admitted that he may have jumped in to the UFC too
early back in February of 2001 when he lost to Baroni.
Now,
Curtis considers himself to be a well rounded fighter. He still
relies on his natural ability but has the training to better
display his natural talent these days. He feels it is just a
matter of time before he becomes a champion.
Source:
MMA Weekly |
Quote
of the Day
"Being defeated is often a temporary condition. Giving up
is what makes it permanent."
Marilyn Vos Savant, US columnist, writer
|
A
Must-Win Night for Two Superstars Headed for a Showdown
Collision Course: De La Hoya vs. Sturm, Hopkins vs. Allen
World Middleweight Championships - Saturday, June 5, 2004. 9pm
ET / 6pm PT.
Live on Pay-Per-View from MGM Grand.
Las
Vegas - Oscar De La Hoya will take a giant step to the middleweight
division and Bernard Hopkins will defend his world middleweight
titles On a Collision Course to Make History at the MGM Grand
Garden Arena on Saturday, June 5. The championship boxing card
will be televised and distributed live on HBO Pay-Per-View.
De
La Hoya, who has won seven world titles in five weight divisions,
will challenge undefeated WBO middleweight champion Felix Sturm
of Germany. Hopkins, who has made 17 straight title defenses,
will take on the IBF #1 rated contender Robert Allen of Stone
Mountain, GA.
"This
is what it's all about, superstars who are in compelling matchups
and who are on a collision course," said Bob Arum, president
of Top Rank.
"We
are excited to kick off the summer with Top Rank, Golden Boy
Promotions and HBO Pay-Per-View," said Richard Sturm, president
and COO for MGM Mirage Entertainment and Sports. "These
fights in June promise to be entertaining and we look forward
to hosting these great champions again in the near future."
"We
are thrilled that pay-per-view boxing fans will have the opportunity
to see the golden boy Oscar De La Hoya and the gold standard
Bernard Hopkins in one big night on June 5th", said Mark
Taffet, HBO Senior Vice President of Sports Operations &
Pay-Per-View.
This
is a riveting career move for De La Hoya who will box in the
160-pound division for the first time.
He
is 22-3 in world championship bouts and has won world titles
at 130, 135, 140, 147 and 154 pounds. The Golden Boy has had
many thrilling mega-fight performances and has defeated 14 world
champions, and is regarded as the biggest box office attraction
in the world today.
Hopkins
is the WBC, WBA and IBF world middleweight champion. Hopkins
holds the all-time record for the number of successful title
defenses with 17, and is regarded today as one of the most feared
champions in any weight division.
On
a Collision Course to Make History is being promoted by Top Rank
and Golden Boy Promotions, in association with MGM Grand, The
City of Entertainment.
The
De La Hoya and Hopkins Doubleheader, beginning at 9pm ET/6pm
PT on June 5th, will be produced and distributed by HBO Pay-Per-View
and will be available to over 48 million pay-per-view homes.
Oscar De La Hoya is headed for the biggest challenge of his life
the Middleweight Division and his first test, Felix Sturm. And
the reigning middleweight king, Bernard Hopkins, has his own
dangerous challenge getting by roadblock Robert Allen.
It's
a must-win night: If they both make the grade, they'll meet for
the ultimate showdown.
Source:
HBO |
Hawaii's
First ever...
Monday Night Fights
June 21.2004 @Volcanoes
Featherweight
MMA Match
135lbs. 2x3 Minute Rounds
Mark Oshiro (Bulls Pin) Vs. Kini Sofa (Hardknocks)
Welterweight
Kickboxing Match
147lbs. 3x2 Minute Rounds
Marcus Moreno (Bulls Pin) Vs. Louis (Team Bigdogs)
Super
Lightweight Kickboxing Match
137lbs. 3x11/2 Minute Rounds
Ryan Lee (Bulls Pin) Vs. Chad (Bigdogs)
Welterweight
MMA Match
175lbs. 2x3 Minute Rounds
Cisco Bringas (Eastside) Vs. Mickey Tafflinger (Team Nanakuli)
Cruiserweight
Kickboxing Match
196lbs. 3x2 Minute Rounds
Val (Team Bigdogs) Vs. TBA
Super
Middleweight Kickboxing Match
172lbs. 3x2 Minute Rounds
Kevin Smith (Team Bigdogs) Vs. Bryon Ingram
Flyweight
MMA Match
145lbs 2x3 Minute Rounds
Kevin Delima (Bulls Pin) Vs.
Welterweight
Kickboxing Match
147lbs. 3X2 Minute Rounds
Frank Moreno (Bulls Pin) Vs. Dyson (Team Bigdogs)
Light
Middleweight Kickboxing Match
159lbs. 3x11/2 Minute Rounds
Zane Kamaka (Freelance) Vs. Mike (Hardknocks)
Punishment
In Paradise 4: “NIGHT OF CHAMPIONS”
Tickets
are available at ticketmaster.com
Cruiserweight Kickboxing Championship
205lbs. 3x2 Minute Rounds
Mike Malone (Eastsidaz) Vs. Andre Washington (Team Thunda)
Light
Heavyweight Kickboxing Championship
179.lbs. 3x2 Minute Rounds
Tommy Pestana (808 Fight Factory) Vs. Kaleo Padilla (Westbrook
Boxing, Kodankan)
Super
Middleweight Kickboxing Championships
172lbs. 3x2 Minute Rounds
Wayne Perrin III (Team Bigdogs) Vs.
Middleweight
Kickboxing Championships
165lbs. 3x2 Minute Rounds
Dain Agbayani (808 F.F.) Vs. PJ Dean (Bad Intentions)
Super
Lightweight Kickboxing Championship
137lbs. 3x2 Minute Rounds
Domi “Dominator’ Lopes ( Team Bigdogs) Vs. Steven Tandal
(Waimanalo Kickboxing)
Lightweight
Kickboxing Championships
132LBS 3x2 Minute Rounds
Gerald Orvalio (808 Fight Factory) Vs. David Balicao (H.S.D.)
Super
Welterweight Kickboxing #1 Contender Match
153lbs. 3x11/2 Minute Rounds
Tyson Coloma’ Nahooikaika (M.F.C.F) Vs. Kaleo Koon (Eastsidaz)
Middleweight
Kickboxing #1 Contender Match
165lbs.2x3 Minute Rounds
Ikaika (Eastsidaz) Vs. Frank Rebello (Advanced Kenpo)
Junior
Heavyweight Kickboxing #1 Contender Match
100lbs. 3x1 Minute Rounds
Sage Yoshida (H.M.C.) Vs. Keola McKee (Wailuku Kickboxing, Maui)
Junior
Bantamweight #1 Contender Match
nn60lbs. 3x1 Minute Rounds
Tristen Febria (E.B.F.C.) Vs. Abraham Reinhart (Wailuku Kickboxing,
Maui)
July 27th
Event Looking for fighters for Toughman Division
There will be 3 four-man tournaments.
A welterweight (under 170lbs), heavyweight (under 265lbs) and
Open weight divison (265+)
Winners will receive championship belts
Punishment
In Paradise 5 "BAD TO THE BONE"
Tenatively Aug or Sept
8
Man 145lbs Tournament
Plus Many More
Source:
Event Promoter |
LESNAR
TO K-1 IS POSSIBLE
Brock Lesnar
WWE
superstar Brock Lesnar announced to the media that if his attempt
to make it in the NFL does not work out, that he is considering
an offer to join K-1.
Source:
Fight Sport |
MECA
FC in the News!
by: Marcello Tetel
Meca
FC is still developing matchups for the upcoming event next weekend.
After witnessing all the efforts from promoters, Pride representatives
visiting Brazil have submitted a Japanese fighter to participate
on this card and to bring international flavor to Meca FC.
Wataru
Takashima is 170lbs. The fighter is from the Takada Dojo, and
he traveled with the Pride entourage. Pride producer Nobuhiko
Takada understood that it was time to test his protege. Since
Takada knows how hungry Brazilians are for an opportunity, his
only request was to have an opponent at the same experience level.
Jorge Guimaraes stated that Takada's student had no previous
MMA experience, so the matchup made will be against a rookie
hometown fighter. Other searches reveal a 3-1 record. The opponent's
name is Emerson Portilho, fighting out of Teresopolis, the city
hosting the next Meca. This is going to be a real test for Takada's
student. Debuting in Brazil, against a hometown fighter, having
the whole crowd against him - it should be quite a test!
In
other news, Pride officials left Curitiba to attend the soccer
game between Brazil and Argentina in Belo Horizonte tonight.
The game is part of the qualifying series for the 2006 Soccer
World Cup that will be held in Germany in 2006. The rivalry between
the national teams is beyond anything the MMA world can imagine.
After that, the Pride entourage will be in Rio de Janeiro, visiting
Brazilian Top Team headquarters and to attend Meca FC live.
Source: ADCC |
POSTAL
CONNECTIONS: MORE INFO ON COUTURE AND BELFORT TO JAPAN
By Tape Lord
Hello
my friends, as I reported last month, K-1 is very interested
in signing the winner (and possibly the loser too) of the Randy
Couture vs. Vitor Belfort title fight coming up in UFC 49.
More
information is now coming out from inside sources, and are telling
me that PRIDE may now get in a bidding war with K-1 for the services
of both Couture and Belfort.
According
to these sources, K-1 would like to make a rematch between Couture
and Josh Barnett. They would also like to match Belfort against
'Lyoto' Machida.
According
to these same sources, PRIDE would like to match Couture against
Hidehiko Yoshida, Quinton Jackson, and Vanderlei Silva. They
would also like to match Belfort against Vanderlei Silva, Quinton
Jackson, and Mirko 'Cro Cop' Filipovic.
Source:
Fight Sport |
|
JAPANESE
MEDIA CONFIRMS FIGHTSPORT.COM SCOOP
The
Japanese media is reporting what Fightsport.com first reported
a few months back, that Pedro Rizzo has signed on with K-1.
According
to inside sources, Rizzo's first opponent will be against a Japanese
pro-wrestler.
Source:
Fight Sport |
KING
of the CAGE - June 12th Preview!
by: Keith Mills
The countdown is on to King Of The Cage’s next pay-per-view
show titled “Unfinished Business”. So far the headline
fights are:
-
John Alessio vs. Jorge Santiago for the Welterweight belt
- Joe Stevenson vs. Randy Velarde for the Lightweight belt
- Thomas Denny vs. Steven Renaud
- Charles “Krazy Horse” Bennett vs. William Sriyapai
Velarde
has been turning his career around since his days in Gladiator
Challenge where up until the end of 2001 he held a pro record
of 2-3. Since then he has fought mostly in KOTC with a post-2001
record of 4-1 with the one loss being to former WEC champ and
former #5 ranked Shooto fighter Shonie Carter. His last three
fights have been wins via TKO or submission to strikes.
Stevenson
is on an 8-fight winning streak including taking the KOTC Lightweight
belt from Thomas Schulte back in November and defending it twice.
Stevenson is mainly known lately for devastating use of knees
to the head on the ground, a technique allowed in KOTC but not
most other promotions. Both were last known training out of Williams
Combat Grappling so they should be familiar enough with each
other to make it an especially intriguing match.
Alessio
was originally the Superfight champion since beating Chris Brennan
in June of ’02. He is also the former UCC (now TKO) champion,
a belt he lost to Team Extreme’s Jason Black last year.
This phase of the Welterweight belt started when the vacated
belt was first won by currently #5 ranked Ronald Jhun when he beat Shonie Carter in May
of last year. Alessio beat Jhun to take the belt in September
and now this is Alessio’s first defense. Alessio has one
other non-KOTC win from March via armbar. Interesting to note
is the Welterweight belt in the history of KOTC as only been
successfully defended once when Joe Hurley defended it back in
February of ’02. Since then it has either not been successfully
defended like when Stevenson has it or has been vacated by the
likes of Gil Castillo and Romi Aram.
Santiago
fights out of American Top Team in Florida. He has two losses,
one to Shooto’s #7 Manvel Gamburyian in KOTC by KO and one
to Keith Wisniewski in AFC by TKO. It was first Santiago’s
win over Laverne Clark in HFC 2 and then John Cronk in KOTC’s
Florida show in January that earned Santiago the belt shot. This
one is likely to be a very fast paced fight transitioning between
standing and the ground although not likely to reach a judges’
decision.
This
show takes place at Soboba Casino in San Jacinto, California,
For tickets or pay-per-view information check out www.kingofthecage.com.
Source:
ADCC |
VERY
BUSY TIME FOR QUINTON JACKSON
Quinton Jackson is gearing up for his upcoming fight against
Ricardo Arona on June 20th. Rampage will be leaving for Japan
on the 16th as he competes for a shot at a rematch with Vanderlei
Silva, IF he can get by the very tough Arona.
Training
has been going well for the man they call "Rampage",
but one notable thing about this training session for this fight
is the fact that Jackson has not been training with Tito Ortiz.
No reason has been given other than the fact"He's doing
his own thing right now", Jackson told MMAWeekly.
In
addition to his busy time training, one thing you might not have
known about Rampage is the fact that he reaches out to the homeless.
So much so, that he has done a documentary film about the homeless.
The
documentary will be coming out July 1st called, "City of
Lost Souls: The LA Homeless." Rampage actually interviews
the homeless himself and thinks it will be a great informative
piece on the homeless situation and possibly even prevent some
from going down the same path.
Rampage
is also doing something maybe never done before. For everyone
that spends $20 on his online store, they will recieve a raffle
ticket to accompany Rampage to Japan for a future fight and come
down the ramp with him to act as his waterboy for that event.
He
also asked MMAWeekly that we put up the number for fans to call
him, 1-714-465-6794. He said he tries to answer as many calls
as possible. He also had his "Rampage Unchained" DVD
come out June 1st. It's a highlight video as well as some behind
the scenes stuff.
Source:
MMA Weekly |
SERRA
READY FOR MENJIVAR
MMAWeekly SoundOff Radio's sixteen fighters in sixteen days continued
Thursday with guest Matt "The Terror" Serra. Matt will
be facing Ivan Menjivar at UFC 48 on June 19th, in a fight he
thinks will be a "fun fight for the fans." He spoke
about the match up and the lightweight division in general.
Matt
is coming off a unanimous decision win over Jeff Curran at UFC
46, after suffering back to back loses at the hands of Din Thomas
and BJ Penn. He commented on not having the added pressure of
coming off a loss and, in this fight, he has more freedom to
open his game up more.
Serra
had nothing but good things to say about his opponent, Ivan Menjivar.
He, himself enjoys watching Ivan fight and considers him "an
exciting fighter." Matt is excited about this fight and
is looking forward to it. He described Ivan as a very energetic
fighter who has "a lot of balls," quick hands and throws
"punches in bunches."
Serra
has been training hard on his all around game. He has a game
plan but hasn't limited himself to it. He said he can go with
the flow and feels "game anywhere." In some of Serra's
past fights, he thinks, he has been overanxious. He has been
sparring in a cage working on "stalking guys down."
Ivan is usually a fighter who takes the fight to his opponent
but Serra is prepared if Menjivar starts to "back peddle."
Matt said he is coming in "full force" and he "wants
to put him away."
Matt
spoke a little about the 155 pound division. When asked who was
the best at that weight, Serra replied, there's "not one
guy who's head and shoulders above the rest." He feels that
there are a ton of great fighters and it depends on the given
day. He isn't worried about the title picture, or if the division
is going to be dropped, he just likes to fight. Source: MMA Weekly
Source:
MMA Weekly |
Ivan
Menjivar Interview
by Rob King
Fighting
out of Montreal, Quebec, Ivan Menjivar has put together a MMA
record of 13-2-0 (with 1 no-contest). He will be putting that
mark on the line when he fights Matt Serra.
Rob
King: Thanks for taking the time to talk to us Ivan. You were
born in EL Slavador. When did you move to Canada?
Ivan
Menjivar: I moved to Canada from El Salvador 10 years ago. I
just recently turned 22.
Rob
King: What is your martial arts background?
Ivan
Menjivar: Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, boxing, muay thai and wrestling.
Rob
King: How did you get started in MMA fighting?
Ivan
Menjivar: Well, I started training with friends a few years back
and fighting just for fun. It seemed like the next logical step.
I just love to fight.
Rob
King: You got a huge fight coming up at UFC 48 against UFC veteran
Matt Serra. Who are you training with in preperation for this
fight?
Ivan
Menjivar : Like always, I am training with the guys from Tri-star
Gym in Montreal, Angelo Exarhakos, Firass Zahabi and all the
Tri-star fighters. My training is the same as always so I also
do boxing and wrestling. That's who I'm training with. As for
who I'm training for, I am training for myself.
Rob
King: What are your thoughts on Matt Serra?
Ivan
Menjivar : Like all opponents I respect him. That is all I will
say.
Rob
King: How are you going to approach this fight?
Ivan
Menjivar : My approach is to enjoy myself. I just want to have
fun, travel with friends, and fight. That is my idea of a nice
vacation. Hotel, food, the pool, fighting...that is the life!
Rob
King: What does it mean to you to get a shot in the UFC?
Ivan
Menjivar : It is definitely cool, but I try to approach it like
I would any other fight. I am doing what I like and that is fighting.
The important thing is to just make the most of it and appreciate
the moment.
Rob
King: Now you were originally scheduled to fight Matt at UFC
46 as a replacement for Gerald Strebendt. What happened? Some
sort of visa problems, correct?
Ivan
Menjivar : Yeah. Seeming it was last minute it was not possible
to work out all the papers in time. However, this time around
everything is taken care of and there should be no problem.
Rob
King: Now most American fans will recognize your name from your
fight against Vitor Ribeiro in the Absolute Fighting Championships.
You took it on short notice and pushed Shaolin to the limit.
What that the toughest fight of your career?
Ivan
Menjivar : I would not say it was the toughest fight of my career.
I do not believe in distinguishing between a tough fight and
not a tough fight. No matter the opponent, training lasts 1 to
2 months, if not more. That is the hard part. If you train hard,
dedicate your time, and take your beatings in training you have
got the main part done. I do not dwell on the past either.
Rob
King: Could you also briefly touch on your fight with Jay Palmer
out in Hawaii. I have to say that is my favorite fight of yours.
That slam you used to finish the fight was one of the sickest
slams I have ever seen.
Ivan
Menjivar : Thanks! The opportunity was there and so I took it.
I had seen tapes of Palmer and thought he was really good. He’s
had some super KO’s in past fights. He’s a true fighter.
Rob
King: Shooto over in Japan seems to be the place for the lighter
weight classes. Would you like to fight in Shooto? Have you ever
been contacted about fighting over there?
Ivan
Menjivar : That would be great. I am open to everything. At this
point I am taking one day and one fight at a time. We will see
what happens after this fight.
Rob
King: What is the biggest victory in your career?
Ivan
Menjivar : They all are. Every fight is special for me. I just
do not like saying this win over that fighter is my biggest win.
Rob
King: What does the future hold for Ivan Menjivar in terms of
every day life as well as your fighting career.
Ivan
Menjivar : If I take the example of Randy Couture, I still have
20 years left to fight if God is willing. Then again, there is
also family and work and life is ever changing. I want to do
all there is in my power to become a man I can be proud of and
live a happy life and share it with the people I love.
Rob
King: Thanks for taking the time to talk to us Ivan and best
of luck against Matt Serra.
Ivan
Menjivar : Thank you!
Source:
Sherdog |
Hélio
Gracie confirmed at Meca
Never a Brazilian Fight event had so many important guests as
Meca 11, which happens tomorrow (5) in Teresópolis, Rio
de Janeiro. Besides the high Pride people, BJJ legend Hélio
Gracie will be seen at the Pedro Jahara gymnasium. 'He confirmed
he will be there, and he's very anxious... he told if it was
a BJJ event he wouldn't go, but how is a Vale-Tudo one and due
our friendship, he will definitely be there," revealed one
of the organizers, Jorge Guimarães, the Joinha.
Other
new is for the first time, the event will be transmitted to 15
different countries. "We are dealing with Philippines, Korea,
Indonesia and many other places in Europe," commented Joinha,
confirming the live broadcasting to Brazil and Portugal. 'We
are growing harder even more. This is such a recognize of our
work and the popularity of show 'Passando a Guarda', which has
great audiences abroad," guaranteed Joinha.
COMPLETE
CARD (subject to change):
-
Emerson Portilho Vs Wataru Takahashi
- Alex Gazé Vs André Jacão;
- Suyan Queiroz Vs Luciano Azevedo;
- Ivan Batman Vs Alexandre Baixinho;
- Luciano Cardoso Vs Parazinho;
- Junior Besouro VS Luiz Brito;
- Delson Pé de Chumbo Vs Jorge Patino Macaco;
- Daniel Acácio Vs Eric Tavares;
- Jadyson Costa Vs Milton Vieira;
- Gustavo Ximu Vs Nilson Castro;
- Luiz Azeredo Vs Tony de Souza;
- Fabrício Monteiro Vs Antônio Tello
Source:
Tatame |
CBJJO
is searching for new talents
Its this weekend! The Copa Norte Nordeste de Jiu-Jitsu Olímpico
debuts in Brazil hoping to find out new names of Soft Art in
the country. The president of Brazilian Olympic Confederation
of Jiu-Jitsu (CBJJO in Poryuguese), Luíz Hermínio,
believes the new competition, he will run into new talents, much
more among the blue and purple belts. 'The athletes have no conditions
to fight in Rio de Janeiro and they will have Copa Norte Nordeste
as an opportunity to highlight over the Brazilian scene,' revealed
Luizinho. The stage for the competition will be the Recife's
Clube Internacional in Recife (PE) and it will receive fighters
from Natal, João Pessoa, Fortaleza, Maceio, Salvador and
Rio de Janeiro. The tournament will start at 10h and it will
feature the divisions: young, male adult and master and female
from white to black.
Once
again, the Confederation features a great cash prize for the
winners. The blue champions will earn R$200, purple R$300, brown
R$400 and black R$500. 'With this money, the athlete will get
excited and will join the World Cup in July, in Bahia. They will
also be able to get a sponsorship and contributing for Jiu-Jitsu's
development,' believes Luizinho, who rent a bus, who will drive
56 Nova União's athletes, among Leo Santos, Eduardo Pessoa
and Bruno Bastos. Luizinho announces he has been think about
other regional competitions. 'I already closed a deal with Corleta,
South Federation's president, and I wanna do it during the second
semester the Sul Sudeste de Jiu-Jitsu Olímpico,' revealed
Luizinho, stating the competition will be in Porto Alegre (RS).
Source:
Tatame |
Quote
of the Day
"We are all in the gutter but some of us are looking at
the stars."
Oscar Wilde, 1856-1900, British Author, Wit
|
LUA
SEMINAR JUNE 19 & 20
For
more information Call or Write to:
Kumu
Lua Ramsay Taum
808-394-5557
Email: halaulua@hawaii.rr.com
Olohe
Solomon Kaihewalu
4th Annual Lua Seminar
Honolulu, Hawaii
Saturday and Sunday
June 19th & 20th, 2004
**Participants
must register!
**Registration 7AM on Saturday
**Pre-Registration available
or
contact Ramsay Taum (info listed above)
Fees
are for both morning and afternoon sessions on both days
--you do not need to attend all days/times.
Open
to all styles!
Open
to the public all days!
Niu
Valley Middle School
310 Halemaumau Street
Guest
Instructors--Pro Black Belts Joining
Grand
Master, Olohe Solomon Kaihewalu
(They
will teach in their systems and styles)
Professor
Mike Tiwanak, CHA-3 Kenpo - Honolulu, Hawai'i
Sifu
Al Dela Cruz, Kajukenbo Chuan Fa - Honolulu, Hawai'i
Professor
George W. Iversen, Kajukenbo - Honolulu, Hawai'i
Guro
Dr. Bahati Nershant, Indonesian Silat - Kona, Hawai'i
Rudy
Valentino, Kick Boxing - Hilo, Hawai'i
Shihan
Jaz Yglesias, Hawaiian Combat Jujitsu - Kona, Hawai'i
George
and Patrice Lim, Lim's Kawai'i Kenpo - Mesa, Arizona
Sensei
Lou Klaff, Shizen Ryu Jujutsu - Glendale, Arizona
Sensei,
Hans C. Ingebretsen, Danzan Ryu Ju Jitsu - Campbell, California
Professor
James Muro, Kosho Ryu Kenpo - Seaside, California
Sam
Combes, Aikido Yoshinkai - Anaheim, California
Shihan
John Masculine, Kenpo Go Shin Jitsu
Sensei
Dale Kahoun, Danzan Ryu Jujitsu - Aptos, California
For
more information Call or Write to:
Kumu
Lua Ramsay Taum
808-394-5557
Email: halaulua@hawaii.rr.com
Source:
Nai`a Watson |
SHOWDOWN
AT UFC 48: VERISSIMO VS HUGHES
Recap by Jeff Cain
With the daunting task of having to fight Matt Hughes coming
off his first loss in three years, Renato "Charuto" Verissimo joined MMAWeekly SoundOff
Radio Wednesday as a part of it's sixteen fighters in sixteen
days segment. "Charuto" discussed his up coming fight,
his training, and BJ Penn.
Training
has been going great for Verissimo, "So far so good,"
as he put it. He has been training with the same guys and brought
in some grapplers from the Olympic Training Center to test his
Jiu-Jitsu skills on. He said he isn't doing anything "special"
to prepare for Matt Hughes. He is in final phase of training
and most of what lies ahead is mental preparation.
Verissimo
walks around at about 180-185 pounds. He is weighing 178-180
right now and said he will have no problems at all making 170.
He prefers to stay as active as possible and to fight the best
competition.
He
made his UFC debut by defeating Carlos Newton and now is set
to face Matt Hughes in his second UFC appearance. He means it
when he says he wants to fight the best.
"Charuto"
is really looking forward to this fight and just hopes Matt Hughes
comes in at his best. "If I'm going to beat him, I want
to beat him at his best," stated Verissimo.
He
thinks Matt will be more cautious in this fight and and try to
do what he does best, ground and pound. He said he will use Matt's
strength to his favor. He went on to say that he thinks Matt
will have a hard time trying to predict what he will do. He added,
"if he wants to trade with me a little bit, I'll be more
than glad," and "Hopefully, he comes to fight because
I'm ready."
Verissimo
spoke a little about BJ Penn and said, BJ is just relaxing right
now, waiting for what comes next. Primarily, BJ is focused on
helping Verissimo prepare for this fight.
Although,
"Charuto" didn't accompany Penn to Japan for BJ's match
with Duane Ludwig, BJ will be in Verissimo's corner for the Hughes
fight.
To
hear all of what Verissimo had to say, like how he got the nickname
"Charuto," get yourself a Premium Membership. For only
five dollars a month, you gain access to the radio archive, our
video library of one on one interviews, behind the scenes coverage
of weigh ins and press conferences, Tips of the week from the
top fighters in Mixed Martial Arts and so much more.
Source:
MMA Weekly |
Black
Belt GP: M. Feitosa faces scales
Gracie Barra's black belt fighter Márcio Feitosa, has
his first battle confirmed for next Black Belt GP, which happens
on next June 24th in São Paulo: against the scales! Feitosa
is now 75kg and the tournament promises to join together the
tough fighters under 70kg. 'I've been training hard to win my
first obstacle: my weight,' revealed the fighter, who commanding
Gracie Barra team during the Brazilian Nationals, held on last
weekend, got the first place among the teams.
'The
whole crew was great at Brazilian Nationals. We ruled the super-featherweight,
the featherweight and the lightweight... and many other vice
champions. They did a great job. It was amazing,' celebrated
Feitosa, Gracie Barra Combat Team's star, who has been out of
the Vale-Tudo tournaments. 'I am a little out of it. The proposals
were not good. Among the lightweights, the purses are not that
great as the heavyweights.'
Source:
Tatame |
SAPP:
LOST AND FOUND
Earlier this week K-1 said that Bob Sapp was missing. K-1 apparently
lost contact with Bob Sapp since his loss to Kazuyuki Fujita.
Sapp was scheduled to do a pro-wrestling match today, but no
one has been able to contact him, except MMAWeekly.
MMAWeekly's
Tom Call reports that Sapp is currently in his home state of
Washington seeing different doctors about his eye injuries.
Both
eyes were badly swollen after his loss to Fujita and Call reports
that doctors are checking out the damage he sustained in his
loss. These are the same doctors who looked at Sapp after his
loss to Cro Cop when his eye socket was broken.
Sapp
has been laying low in nearby Bellevue, hanging with his friends
and hasn't talked about his future at all. He plans to get away
from the fight game for awhile to take some much needed time
off.
Sapp
could be appearing on MMAWeekly Radio in the next few days as
well, so make sure you tune in for a possible surprise guest
in the upcoming days.
Source:
MMA Weekly |
MENJIVAR
VS SERRA
It's that time again, MMAWeekly SoundOff Radio kicked off it's
sixteen fighters in sixteen days Wednesday with Ivan Menjivar.
Today you can hear from his opponent, Matt Serra.
Ivan
will be making his UFC debut June 19th against Matt "The
Terror" Serra. Menjivar spoke about making his UFC debut,
his opponent, and his preparation for the fight.
For
those who haven't seen Ivan fight or don't know much about him,
get ready because you will. He has a 13-2 professional MMA record
with his only loses being to Jason Black and Vitor Ribeiro, both
undefeated. Ivan describes himself as a well rounded fighter
and said, "I'm a good Mixed Martial Arts fighter."
When
asked about making his UFC debut, Menjivar said it is just another
fight to him. He has been preparing for this bout the same as
he usually does, "nothing special." He has been training
with training partner and friend Georges St.Pierre, who is fighting
Jay Hieron on the same UFC 48 card.
When
asked about his opponent, Matt Serra, Ivan stated, "I have
respect for him as a good fighter." He doesn't formulate
a game plan going into fights. To Menjivar, "Each fight
is different, a different feeling, different people, and different
fighters." His game plan is just to do what he needs to
do in order to win.
Ivan
walks around at about 160 pounds and will not have any problems
at all making the 155 pound weight limit for the fight. He likes
to fight at 145 but said he has no problems going up in weight
depending on the promotion and opponent. He thinks many of the
guys who fight at 155 are heavy for that weight and he can tell
the difference during the bouts. He commented, "I am good
at 145, 155 is just for fun."
Source:
MMA Weekly |
Uncensored Interview:
ROYLER GRACIE
by André Araújo
After three years away from MMA competition, multi time BJJ &
submission champion Royler Gracie faced the Japanese fighter
Genki Sudo and suffered a KO in the first round at the recent
K-1 Romanex event, held in Japan last May 22nd.
Royler accepts the
results and doesn't make excuses about the KO. 'I was with him
the entire time. I clinched and I didn't want to lose him. I
pull him from my guard a couple of times, but he let himself
free... until the damn knee hit me and it was not so strong,
but hit me in the right place. It gave me a blackout. I don't
think I made a mistake on the ground. It was a fight were everything
could happen. it was such a fight where everything could happen.
My evaluation is: due to my inactivity, plus his weight and other
factors created a hard time for me,' said the youngest son of
Master Hélio Gracie.
What would you do
in case of a rematch with Sudo? I really want to face him again,
but I do need to be ready for it. I do need to train harder and
know about the fight a while before. But even before facing him
again, I would like to do another fight first, in Vale-Tudo.
He has been training and fighting and it was important. I didn't
feel insecure... mistakes are made. I was feeling great and after
seeing the tape, I realized it was a damn good fight.
It seems Sudo challenged
Royce after the fight...
Sudo surprised me.
He is such a humble guy and he is pure and very professional.
He is a tough man in the ring and a gentleman outside. At the
end of the fight, he came to me and asked me how was I feeling.
I've heard he said he would like to face Royce, but everything
depends on the deal and everything else.
Lots of people were
surprised that two Gracies were KO'd in the same weekend... you
at K-1 and Ralph at Pride... Does this prove Jiu-Jitsu is no
longer enough in Vale-Tudo? I don't see it that way. Boxing and
Muay Thai help Vale-Tudo, but Jiu-Jitsu is still the most efficient
one. What cannot happen is you fight without being prepared,
and agree to fight with heavier fighters than you. Nowadays,
all the fighters are more prepared. The Brazilian fighter used
to think, just because he had technique, he didn't need to worry
about the physical part. More important than that is not to give
chances to your opponents.
You were at Pride.
How do you see Gracie Vs Japan challenge? Cachorrão did
a great job and he ruled the ring. In Ralph's bout, that knee
was just an unlucky move for him. Those things happen. Ryan fought
really well. I think he was a little out of shape, but his head
was damn good. He put the opponent down, caught his back, maybe
in the end, he got a little tired, but he honored the family.
How do you see the
Japanese evolution?
I see it as a natural
thing. It's like a car model gets improved... The car used to
run on gas, and then alcohol, diesel. About the Japanese evolution,
they have been studying the art of fighting for a while. Fighting
is life for them and they just love it! They are no longer concerned
about who will win or lose. They want to see the show. I also
was very welcomed when I went to Pride to support my family.
Sudo is a BJJ brown
belt, practices Muay Thai and Wrestling. Do you think his knowledge
of JJ helped his victory? No, I don't think so. He didn't try
to choke me or even pass my guard. He enjoyed his opportunity...
I didn't even know he practiced Jiu-Jitsu with Marcos Vinícius?
I felt he was okay on the ground with me, but he seemed a little
worried. If he wanted to fight on the ground with me, it would
be fine for me. Who knows? In fact he didn't run, but he was
ready. He also told me after the fight how important it was fighting
me. He said he's wrote on the wall of his gym his dream was facing
Royler some day.
Some people commented
there was a delay, from the time you went down to when the referee
stopped the fight. What do you think about it? I am suspect to
talk about it. I guess he didn't realize I was out. Maybe because
of his angle and the not powerful knee. After I fell I ate a
few punches. In my opinion, the referee could stop the fight
a little earlier. He always has to have in mind the physical
health of the athlete. But it was a really weird situation. I
believe he didn't know I fell down KO'd.
On your last fight
with Sakuraba, there was a huge controversy... Sakuraba was trying
the Kimura and the referee interrupted the bout... That was a
completely different situation. I didn't scream or asked to stop
and he stopped the bout. This time I collapsed!
You took control
of the fight in the beginning... Boxing was important, or did
that bother you? Boxing has never bothered me. What really happened
was I had no time to train Boxing, to sharpen my hands and get
a bigger punch. The fact I was away from competition and trained
just two weeks was the main reason for my loss. I don't have
a need to place blame. A fighter's life is full of victories
and losses. If somebody tells me I am allowed to go back to the
past, I have no regrets.
Did you talk to
your father after the fight? What did Mr Hélio Gracie
say? He told me that KO's happen, and he told me to not be upset
about it. KO's happen only to fighters in the ring!
Source: ADCC |
Pride
Bushido 4 - BTT versus Japan?
by: Marcello Tetel
As soon as DSE/Pride finalized the card for the Pride GP, rumours
started to fly regarding other upcoming DSE ventures. Pride Bushido
4 is scheduled for Nagoya next July 19th, and negotiations for
developing the card are in progress. As a standard feature, Pride
Bushido will present a Japanese team fighting against a famous
MMA team. The first event had Gracie team X Japan, Pride Bushido
2 had Chute Boxe facing the Japanese squad, and the third edition
of Bushido featured the return of what we could start to call
a rivalry: Gracies X Japan.
Now,
for the fourth edition of Pride Bushido, plans are in the works
to feature Brazilian Top Team facing Japan. Names were not confirmed
yet but the return of Murilo Bustamante as one of the fighters
defending BTT is highly likely.
Rogerio
Nogueira is another likely fight as well, despite his Gladiator
FC fight in Seoul, South Korea scheduled for the same month.
The third Brazilian Top Team representative will be a newcomer
around 170 lbs.
As
soon as names are released and contracts are signed we will post
details. Any further comments may cause problems during negotiations.
Source: ADCC
Source:
ADCC |
INSIDE
SCOOP: LANDLESS POSSIBLY BANNED FROM UFC
By Scoop McTroll
Word on the street is that UFC president Dana White has demanded
that Larry Landless never ref another UFC fight again.
This
is strictly unofficial because the NSAC are supposed to be the
ones who nominate the referees for each show. Apparently Dana
was furious with Landless for not stopping the Tanner-Baroni
fight when Tanner was on queer street. He couldnt believe that
Landless let Tanner recover and then tried to stop the fight
when Baroni was mounted.
"Dana
said Landless was like a bizarro version of Big John McCarthy,
stopping the fight to give the wrong fighter the win" said
a UFC informant.
"Dana
personally did not care that Baroni punched Landless but he had
to make out as though he was pissed with Phil. The truth is that
he blames the whole incident on Landless, not Baroni." -
said the same source.
Apparently
he let Landless work on the following show to make it look like
there were no hard feelings. But where has Larry been lately....?
Source:
Fight Sport |
Catching
up with Joe Doerksen
Team Extreme’s Joe Doerksen has been making a good impression
on scouts and promoters alike for the past couple of years. In
the ADCC News archives Joe has talked about TKO, winning the
SuperBrawl/Extreme
Challenge Middleweight tournament series, and specific opponents like Denis
Kang and David Loiseau. Most recently he won a unanimous decision
over Riki Fukuda in SuperBrawl and defended his FFC Middleweight
belt against previously unbeaten WEC Middleweight champion Chris
Leben from Team Quest in another decision victory. Now we catch
up with him on the eve of stunning news…as manager Monte
Cox confirms they have received an offer for Joe to fight in
August’s UFC.
KM:
Last time we updated was around March when you were preparing
for SuperBrawl. Since then you picked
up two wins. Congratulations. How are you feeling about your
career right now coming off these two wins?
JD: Thank you. I feel good I guess. Everything is going the way
we want it to go. It’s been a lot of hard work and stuff
but it’s been going the way we want it to. We’re not
trying to rush or anything. I’m pretty happy, I think everything
is going fine. Don’t really have any complaints.
KM:
Last time we were talking about you had one fight after nine
months off and I was making the point the Dan Anderson fight
was a tough one. Not really what we would expect for a “comeback”
or “brushing off the rust” fight. Your last two were
even harder. Do you think that nine-month layoff is now behind
you?
JD: Definitely. The last two fights were probably the two toughest
I’ve ever had. I got through them just fine. I’m definitely
ready for whatever is coming.
KM:
You are stepping up in competition. From what I heard the Riki
Fukuda fight was the fight of the night in SuperBrawl.
JD: Yeah, that is what some people were saying. It was a pretty
good scrap. It was a tough one. I didn’t feel at any time
I was in danger of getting submitted or knocked out but it was
a tough, draining fight because Fukuda just wouldn’t quit
no matter what I did to him. He had so much heart and obviously
was prepared to fight. It was a difficult to fight to get through
emotionally because you are throwing everything you got at the
guy and he keeps coming and keeps coming ad just will not quit.
KM:
That was three five-minute rounds. What was it about that fight
that you think got you the decision? Was there a turning point?
JD: I think I dominated from the beginning to the end, it wasn’t
a matter of me having to do anything special to win. I think
I was landing most of the punches standing and was active on
the floor. I never really got on top of him on the floor but
was always busy. Even when he was on top he didn’t do a
whole lot. I was always more active going for submissions and
trying to get some shots in there. Standing I think I dominated
completely.
KM:
You fought Chris Leben just a month later. Was that any kind
of issue knowing you had another fight coming up in a month?
JD: For me I didn’t even know who Chris Leben was, I didn’t
know what I was getting myself into. I try to concentrate on
one fight at a time and basically as soon as I was in the locker
room after the Fukuda fight I started thinking of the Chris Leben
fight. I went straight home and back to the gym. I was in the
gym the night I got home from the airport and I started training
right away.
KM:
And fighting Leben was defending your Middleweight belt in FFC?
JD: That is correct.
KM:
Do you know much about Chris Leben now?
JD: Yeah, more than I did before I fought him. He was a tough
guy, probably one of the toughest I’ve ever fought. Again
technically on the floor I think I was doing pretty good. I got
a few takedowns in the first round and a few submissions attempts
and one armbar actually I heard his arm crunch but he just seemed
to have this idea in his head he wasn’t going to tap out
and he stuck to it. Again, emotionally a difficult fight to get
through because you know you are hurting him but he just keeps
coming at you. I think he was more dangerous than Fukuda because
he was throwing some heavy shots and was a more experienced fighter.
In terms of me being in danger I think it was a more difficult
fight because he was attacking and I was forced to defend as
well as attack. It was definitely tougher than the Fukuda fight,
more dangerous, but it went my way and I’m happy.
KM:
I was at KOTC so missed it but heard from one of the guys at
WEC you had two armbars on him, not just that first one you just
mentioned.
JD: I got him in a kimura from the guard and he just kind of
powered out of it and I guess it did some damage to his shoulder
before he got out of it but again he just was determined just
not to give up, not to quit.
KM:
And you ended up giving him a cut that kept him out of the WEC
show where he was supposed to defend his belt against Steve Heath.
JD: I didn’t realize he was fighting the next week I know
I cut him. He had eight stitches over one eye. Again, just tough
guy. You see a guy in front of you cut ad bleeding and you know
you hurt his arm and the same arm you almost broke he is throwing
huge shots at you with…you are in the middle of the fight
trying to figure out what is wrong with this guy, why won’t
he quit. It makes for a very exciting fight for the fans. I’m
really happy with the way it went because we both came in there
and fought our hearts out ad ultimately the fans are the ones
that won out in the end.
KM:
I was joking around with some of the press at WEC that I was
mad at you because his fight against Heath was one of the ones
I was looking forward to the most and you hurt him.
JD: I’ll have to apologize for that. (Both laugh).
KM:
Now that you know more about him how does it make you feel you
beat someone of that level? Do you look at that one as helping
your career more than some of your other fights?
JD: I think it did. Basically the day after his fight I found
out I was going to fight in the UFC.
Don’t
you hate cliff-hangers? Don’t worry, in part 2 Joe talks
more about it.
Source: ADCC
|
U.S.
OLYMPIC WRESTLING TRIALS ON USA NETWORK THIS SATURDAY MORNING,
JUNE 5
For
those who were not fortunate enough to attend the 2004 U.S. Olympic
Team Trials in wrestling, held May 21-23 in Indianapolis, and
for those who were there and cherished the drama, guts, technique,
and toughness on display, a chance to relive that event is being
made possible through a television broadcast this coming Saturday
morning.
There
will be a two-hour broadcast this Saturday, June 5, of the 2004
U.S. Olympic Team Trials in wrestling starting at 10 AM EDT and
running to noon on the USA Network. It will feature many of the
best matches from this event's finals. It is being broadcast
as part of the USA Network's series of telecasts of U.S. Olympic
Trials in various Olympic sports. As always, check your local
listings.
The
network has wisely chosen to highlight the most exciting finals
matches of this event, including the 16:54 classic between Dennis
Hall and Brandon Paulson. Also to be shown are matches between
Cael Sanderson and Lee Fullhart, Rulon Gardner and Dremiel Byers,
Kerry McCoy and Tolly Thompson, Toccara Montgomery and Kristie
Marano, Patricia Miranda and Clarissa Chun, and Daniel Cormier
and Tim Hartung. In addition, there will be footage shown of
all 17 American wrestlers who will represent the USA in wrestling
at the 2004 Athens Olympics in August.
Make
sure to get your video recorders ready.
Here
is the press release put out by USA Wrestling's Gary Abbott with
more details of this broadcast.
Seven
key matches are showcased during U.S. Olympic Team Trials broadcast
on USA Network, Saturday, June 5 at 10:00 a.m. Eastern
by
Gary Abbott - USA Wrestling
The
U.S. Olympic Team Trials - Wrestling will be aired on USA Network
on Saturday, June 5 from 10:00 a.m. - noon Eastern Time.
The
two-hour show will include footage of all 17 athletes to qualify
for the Olympic team in the three Olympic styles.
However,
seven matches will receive special focus during the production,
three in men's freestyle, and two each in women's freestyle and
men's Greco-Roman.
Two
of these Championship Series went to a third and deciding match
before an Olympian was determined. They were:
*
Cael Sanderson, Ames, Iowa (Sunkist Kids) vs. Lee Fullhart (Colorado
Springs, Colo./Gator WC) at 84 kg/185 lbs. in men's freestyle
* Dennis Hall (Plover, Wis./Sunkist Kids) vs. Brandon Paulson
(Coon Rapids, Minn./Minnesota Storm) at 55 kg/121 lbs. in men's
Greco-Roman
The
Sanderson vs. Fullhart series went to the final match after Sanderson
won the first bout and Fullhart claimed the second bout. Sanderson
was a 2003 World silver medalist, but Fullhart had beaten Sanderson
in the U.S. Nationals to claim the No. 1 position in the Olympic
Trials.
Hall
and Paulson were teammates on the 1996 Olympic team at different
weight classes, and both won Olympic silver medals. Hall dropped
in weight to challenge Paulson, even though they are friends
and frequent training partners. The third and final match of
this showdown was one of the most compelling in Olympic Trials
history, going into an extended overtime, needing almost 17 minutes
until a champion was determined.
Two
of the matches were at the super heavyweight division in men's
wrestling, and featured members of the 2000 Olympic team:
* Rulon Gardner, Cascade, Colo. (Sunkist Kids) vs. Dremiel Byers
(Colorado Springs, Colo./U.S. Army) at 120 kg/264.5 lbs. in men's
Greco-Roman
* Kerry McCoy (Bethlehem, Pa./New York AC) vs. Tolly Thompson
(Cedar Falls, Iowa/Sunkist Kids) in men's freestyle
The
Gardner vs. Byers match was the first time in U.S. Greco-Roman
history that two past World champions battled for a single spot
on the U.S. Olympic team. Gardner boasts a 2000 Olympic gold
medal and 2001 World title, while Byers has a 2002 World title.
Gardner became a national sports hero when he beat three-time
Olympic champion and previously unbeaten Alexander Kareline of
Russia in the Sydney Games.
McCoy
placed fifth in the 2000 Olympic Games, and won a World silver
medal in 2003. Thompson is a veteran who has won a U.S. Nationals
title in the past and has extensive experience.
Two
of the matches feature women's freestyle wrestling, the newest
sport on the Olympic Games program. They are:
* Toccara Montgomery (Cleveland, Ohio/New York AC) vs. Kristie
Marano (Colorado Springs, Colo./New York AC) at 72 kg/158.5 lbs.
in women's freestyle
* Patricia Miranda (Colorado Springs, Colo./Dave Schultz WC)
vs. Clarissa Chun (Colorado Springs, Colo./Gator WC) at 48 kg/105.5
lbs. in women's freestyle
The
Montgomery vs. Marano showdown feature a pair of international
stars. Montgomery boasts two World silver medals. Marano is a
two-time World Champion and seven-time World medalist. Both were
2003 U.S. Nationals champion, but Marano missed weight at the
Olympic Trials and moved up to challenge Montgomery.
Miranda
has won two World silver medals, and has dominated her U.S. opponents
in recent seasons. Chun is a veteran who has been the top challenger
in this division for a number of years.
The
final featured match is at 96 kg/211.5 lbs. in men's freestyle,
showcasing Daniel Cormier (Stillwater, Okla./Gator WC) vs. Tim
Hartung (Minneapolis, Minn./Minnesota Storm). Cormier was fifth
in the 2003 World Championships, while Hartung was a member of
the 2002 U.S. World team. Both are highly skilled competitors.
All
of the Championship Series winners will be included in the show,
and sports fans will get the chance to see every athlete who
will be going to Athens representing our nation.
The
broadcast crew that handled the coverage of the U.S. Olympic
Team Trials will be the same announcers who will work wrestling
for NBC at the Athens Games. They include veteran wrestling announcers
Russ Hellickson and Jeff Blatnick, who handle the play-by-play
and color commentary duties, as well as veteran NBC broadcaster
Len Berman, who conducts the interviews.
The
event was originally held at the RCA Dome in Indianapolis, May
21-23.
Wrestling
fans are asked to e-mail this information to all of their friends
to let them know about this exciting broadcast.
USA
Network is available in 86 million U.S. television households,
one of the most prominent cable networks in the nation. USA Network
will capture the drama and excitement of at least 10 different
Olympic sports qualifying athletes to represent the USA at the
2004 Olympic Games in Athens.
Featured
matches from the U.S. Olympic Team Wrestling
On the USA Network broadcast June 5
MEN'S
FREESTYLE
84 kg/185 lbs. - Cael Sanderson, Ames, Iowa (Sunkist Kids) vs.
Lee Fullhart (Colorado Springs, Colo./Gator WC)
96 kg/211.5 lbs. - Daniel Cormier (Stillwater, Okla./Gator WC)
vs. Tim Hartung (Minneapolis, Minn./Minnesota Storm)
120 kg/264.5 lbs. - Kerry McCoy (Bethlehem, Pa./New York AC)
vs. Tolly Thompson (Cedar Falls, Iowa/Sunkist Kids)
WOMEN'S
FREESTYLE
48 kg/105.5 lbs. - Patricia Miranda (Colorado Springs, Colo./Dave
Schultz WC) vs. Clarissa
Chun (Colorado
Springs, Colo./Gator WC)
72 kg/158.5 lbs. - Toccara Montgomery (Cleveland, Ohio/New York
AC) vs. Kristie Marano (Colorado Springs, Colo./New York AC)
MEN'S
GRECO-ROMAN
55 kg/121 lbs. - Dennis Hall (Plover, Wis./Sunkist Kids) vs.
Brandon Paulson (Coon Rapids, Minn./Minnesota Storm)
120 kg/264.5 lbs. - Rulon Gardner, Cascade, Colo. (Sunkist Kids)
vs. Dremiel Byers (Colorado Springs, Colo./U.S. Army)
Source: ADCC
|
THREE
MORE MATCHES ANNOUNCED FOR CRITICAL COUNTDOWN 2004!
LOS
ANGELES, California - Three additional matches have been announced
for CRITICAL COUNTDOWN 2004, which will take place on June 20th,
2004 from the Saitama Super Arena in Japan and is scheduled to
debut on North American pay per view on same day delay. These
matches are non-tournament matches.
For
the rank of #1 middleweight:
Quinton "Rampage" Jackson (USA) vs. Ricardo Arona (Brazil)
The winner of this match will be positioned for a title shot
in October 2004
Kazushi
Sakuraba (Japan) vs. Antonio "Nino" Schembri (Brazil)
Hidehiko Yoshida (Brazil) vs. Mark Hunt (New Zealand)
Tournament
Matches:
Fedor
Emelianenko vs. Kevin "The Monster" Randleman
Antonio Rodrigo "Minotauro" Nogueira vs. "The
Texas Crazy Horse" Heath Herring
Paulo Cesar "Giant" Silva vs. Naoya Ogawa
Semmy Schilt vs. Sergei Kharitonov
Fight
Card Subject to Change.
The
schedule for the tournament is as follows:
PRIDE
FC 16-Man Heavyweight Tournament
CRITICAL
COUNTDOWN 2004
June 20, 2004
Saitama Super Arena
(Second Round)
FINAL
CONFLICT 2004
August 15, 2004
Saitama Super Arena
(Semi-Finals and Finals)
PRIDE
FC: CRITICAL COUNTDOWN 2004 will premiere on North American pay
per view through iNDEMAND, DIRECTV, DISH NETWORK, UrbanXtra,
TVN1, VU!, and Viewer's Choice Canada on Sunday, June 20th, 2004.
The premiere time is 9:00pm EST, 6:00pm PST and the count down
show is at 8:30pm EST, 5:30pm PST. For additional replay times,
please contact your pay per view provider.
Source: Booker K
|
COUTURE
VS. BELFORT III SET FOR AUGUST UFC
Yesterday, during an interview conducted by MMAWeekly’s
Mick Hammond, Randy Couture confirmed that he will finally get
his rematch with Vitor Belfort at UFC 49 on August 21st. He was
told by the UFC, and the Nevada State Athletic Commission’s
schedule confirms, that the rematch will take place at the MGM
Grand Hotel & Casino, marking the first time the UFC has
used that venue since November of 2002 when Tito Ortiz and Ken
Shamrock squared off.
Couture
and Belfort first squared off in the Octagon at UFC 15 in October
of 1997, where Couture overwhelmed Belfort and finished the fight
in a flurry of punches. They faced each other again, over six
years later, at UFC 46. This time things fell Belfort’s
way as his glove grazed across Couture’s eye, not landing
flush, but causing a freak cut to Couture’s eyelid and an
eye abrasion which caused a TKO stoppage in Belfort’s favor.
Couture’s
eye is now fully healed and he’s anxious to get back in
the ring. “My eye is 100% back to normal. In fact, I was
back training two weeks after the injury… there was no permanent
damage,” said Couture.
Although
many rumors had Belfort defecting from the UFC for Pride or K-1,
it appears that those rumors would be false. Despite a trying
year in which Belfort has had to face the trials of his sister’s
disappearance (she has yet to be found) and the uproar over the
way he won the title from Couture, he has stepped up to the plate.
Couture,
for one, is appreciative. “I thank Vitor for stepping up
and signing to fighting me. I look forward to another great UFC
and to finally settling the score between Vitor and myself."
Check
back tomorrow for the full interview and read what Couture had
to say about Belfort, he and Matt Lindland’s Sportfight
promotion, BJ Penn’s defection, and more.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
16
FIGHTERS IN 16 DAYS
Join
Ryan Bennett today on MMAWeekly Radio as we kick off 16 Fighters
in 16 Days working our way towards June 19th and UFC 48. Today,
Bennett will have guests Renato "Charuto" Verissimo
and Ivan Menjivar on the air.
Charuto
Verissimo burst
into the MMA mainstream's eye when he made his Octagon debut
at UFC 46 by dominating fan favorite Carlos Newton. Known mainly
as BJ Penn's Brazilian Jiujitsu trainer, Verissimo has an accomplished
record of 5-0 in MMA with wins over the aforementioned Newton,
as well as UFC veteran Gil Castillo. He will square off against
Matt Hughes at UFC 48.
Ivan
Menjivar, not widely known in the United States, is one of Canada's
brightest MMA stars. Fighting primarily for promotions in the
Great White North, he holds a record of 13-2, his only losses
to undefeated fighters Vitor "Shaolin" Ribiero and
Jason Black. He holds wins over UFC veteran Jeff Curran and Miltech
Fighting Systems rising star Mike French. Menjivar makes his
Octagon debut at UFC 48 against Renzo Gracie fighter Matt Serra.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
TICKET
SALES SLOW FOR UFC 48
Despite a headliner featuring Ken Shamrock and Kimo Leopoldo,
according to insider sources, ticket sales for UFC 47 haven't
gone as expected. In fact, ticket sales seem to be lagging well
behind where sales for UFC 47 were at three weeks before that
show.
The
UFC was apparently banking on the name recognition of Shamrock,
whose last bout helped propel the UFC to what insiders believe
was their most successful pay-per-view show ever under the ownership
of Zuffa, LLC and a record setting live gate. The UFC reportedly
scored big with reports of pay-per-view buys in the area of 140,000-150,000,
when they had been averaging somewhere in the neighborhood of
40,000-60,000 buys before Shamrock squared off against Tito Ortiz.
(Zuffa does not officially release their pay-per-view numbers.)
With
just under three weeks remaining until the show, there is still
time for ticket sales to pick up and there is still hope for
substantial pay-per-view numbers.
Shamrock
faced Ortiz with a torn anterior cruciate ligament and was soundly
defeated despite giving it everything he had to give. He now
says that the knee won't be an issue, "Well, you know, it
isn't 100% yet, but when the bell rings June 19th, I'll show
how 100% I am."
Kimo,
despite having lost to Shamrock in just 4:24 at UFC 8, feels
that this time will be different. He believes that he has since
improved in every facet of the game and that Shamrock will be
facing an entirely different fighter than he did eight years
ago.
Shamrock
doesn't appear to be worried, "This time it may take me
eight minutes. He's improved a whole bunch... I haven't gotten
worse. Actually, I've gotten a lot healthier, so now, I'm back
on my game. I just say it may take me a little bit longer...
he's probably gotten better defense, but the result is going
to be the same."
Source: MMA Weekly
|
Quote
of the Day
"Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress;
working together is success."
Henry Ford, 1863-1947, American Industrialist, Founder of Ford
Motor Company
|
Hard
Knocks Gym in Waipio
We are in Waipio Gentry next to the Public Storage.
It's in the same complex with Teachers Plus and across the street
(and down a bit) from the Waipio Spa.
Hard
Knocks Hawaii
94-547 Ukee Street Suite 209
Waipahu, Hawaii
808-671-5406
email address: hardknockshawaii@aol.com
website will be up soon: hardknockshawaii.com
|
A
great wrestler is gone: Alexander 'Sacha' Savko
A great wrestler, an even better coach and a very good friend
has left us for the great mat in the heavens. Alexander 'Sacha'
Savko died 2 weeks ago while training for the Athens Olympics.
Sacha, a former World Champion from Belarus was one of the pioneer
instructors in the ADCC Wrestling program. A great person with
a gift for coaching 'Sacha' was loved by his students and everyone
that met him.
Sacha
competed in three ADCC's placing second in '99 to Kareen Barkleev
in the 77 - 87 KG division. The thing that made Sacha so difficult
and such a feared competitor in ADCC was his uncanny ability
to use his wrestling moves against Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, his 'unorthodox'
escapes and attacks, in addition to his impeccable balance made
him a perennial favorite for the podium.
But
Sacha's accomplishments in ADCC World Championships and even
his World Wrestling title paled next to his ability to teach.
The man simply had a gift! He was the original trainer for ADCC
Wrestling team and quickly turned a group of young kids into
master competitors with his unbelievable knowledge, his tremendous
enthusiasm and his tremenous caring for each athlete under his
wing. Sacha had the incredible ability to read each individual's
capabilities and mold techniques to that specific person.
An
incredible wrestler even at an age that most wrestlers were past
their time, Sacha was one of those rare talents that exceed the
sport. A few years back Sacha was vacationing in his home Country
of Belarus and went to see his old Wrestling coach. The coach
egged Sacha into competing against the young bucks that were
vying for the Belarus Olympic Team. Sacha competed one weight
category above his normal because he didn't want the sacrifice
of dropping weight and still beat the team and qualified for
a spot! At the time, Sacha was employed full time at ADCC and
declined to compete. That must have rekindled his dream as a
few years later Sacha returned home and proceed to train again.
Two
weeks ago Sacha collapsed on the mat while training. He was taken
to the Hospital and later pronounced dead. Sacha died doing what
he loved best and that is some comfort for those who knew and
loved him.
I
met Sacha in Abu Dhabi in '99 and we quickly became friends,
he was a very kind man and super intelligent. We'd spend hours
talking and he'd tell me about his experiences growing up in
the Soviet Union and his experiences climbing the ranks of their
Wrestling team. As our friendship grew my admiration for him
grew even more.
He
leaves behind his wife Svetlana and his son Misha and a host
of friends that will miss his wisdom but especially miss his
friendly warm smile!
Das
ve dania Big Sacha! We will miss you!
Source:
ADCC
|
155
POUND TOURNAMENT STACKED
While the UFC figures out what they want to do with their 155
division, look for more organizations like the MFC to step up
and put together some top fight tournaments in the 155 weight
class.
In
October at the Trump Taj Majal Arena, there will be a 155 pound
tournament; as well as, a heavyweight tournament that will take
place over a few months. MMAWeekly has learned the names of those
participating in the 155 division, and it's spectacular to say
the least.
These
fighters are confirmed for the tournament. Yves Edwards, Joaquin
Hansen, Hermes Franca, Phil Johns, Rich Clementi, Sergei Golyaev
, Naoyuki Kotani, Dave Gardner and Kurt Pellegrino.
Hermes
Franca is recovering well from his nose surgery and is starting
to become active in training. Hermes plans on being cleared to
fight in the October Euphoria MFC 8 man lightweight tournament.
After
a couple of frustrating close losses in the UFC, Franca sees
the opportunity to further establish himself as one of the best
in the world at 155. "Those losses in the UFC were so frustrating
because they could have been two wins, not two losses",
Franca told MMAWeekly. "But I will live with the decisions."
Franca
is just one of many names scheduled to compete at the MFC card
scheduled to be at the Trump Taj Mahal Arena in October. There
are some other quality names on the card as well; such as, UFC
Veterans Rich Clementi and Yves Edwards.
The
first round for the 8 MAN LIGHTWEIGHT TOURNAMENT will be on October
16th. There will also be an 8 MAN HEAVYWEIGHT TOURNAMENT with
the first round also starting on the same day. Franca's teammate,
Jeff Monson is also planning on fighting in that show in the
Heavyweight Tournament.
Monson
recently fought his second boxing match and scored a KO for his
first pro win. Jeff is now 1-0-1 as a pro boxer and plans on
entering Euphoria MFC 8 man Heavyweight Tournament.
In
other American Top Team news, Din Thomas also picked up his first
professional boxing win recently by a unanimous decision and
uped his record to 1-0-1.
Din
will continue boxing professionaly but is looking to get another
mma match under his belt this summer. Dustin "Clean"
Dennes has been training hard for his long awaited and overdue
Shooto light heavyweight title shot against Masinouri Suda, which
will be held on July 9th in Hawaii.
Aaron
Riley recently took a short vacation to visit his family back
in Indiana and Kentucky and has just returned home to begin training
for a fight in August which will most likey be down in Brazil
for AFC Brazil. AFC will also have a show in Wisconson on Saturday
June 12th. This card will feature Wilson Goveia; as well as,
the pro mma debuts of Petrus "Buffalo" Walker and Thiago
"Jambo." Marcus Aurelio was victorious once again in
ZST, he defeated Naoyuki Kotani by TKO at 3:34, RD 2. Marcus
is interested in fighting in the next PRIDE Bushido show.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
SEAN
SHERK: TWO FIGHTS IN TWO WEEKS
Sean Sherk is ranked in the top five in the world in his weight
class. He has just one loss in his professional career and that
was for the UFC title against Matt Hughes.
Now
Sherk will be staying very busy with a fight this weekend in
Idaho, only to follow that up with another fight the following
week at Extreme Challenge.
"I've
got to pay my bills...", Sherk said laughing when asked
about his busy schedule. " This is what I get paid to do,
so I'm looking forward to my next couple of fights", Sherk
told MMAWeekly.
As
far as his future on the bigger shows, look for Sherk to return
to Japan, not the UFC sooner than later. "The UFC has shown
they are looking for standup fighters, not MMA fighters. Look
at the last UFC. How many fights even went to the ground...maybe
two?", Sherk said perplexed. "I love fighting in Japan
and I know I will be fighting again soon enough, so I look forward
to that challenge."
Sherk
is currently ranked #3 in the world in the latest MMA Fighters
and Broadcasters Poll behind BJ Penn and Matt Hughes. Sherk will
be one of the featured guests today on MMAWeekly Radio talking
about his fight this week in Idaho; as well as, his upcoming
fight in Extreme Challenge.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
COLORADO
TIGHTENS UP ON MMA
As
mixed martial arts and combat sports in general continue to grow
throughout the United States; especially, at the grass roots
level, States are more and more starting to sanction and regulate
events. Despite being overshadowed by the prominent sanctioning
bodies such as the Nevada State Athletic Commission and the New
Jersey State Athletic Control Board, regulating bodies such as
the Colorado Boxing Commission are continuing to play an ever
increasing role in the governing of mixed martial arts.
Talking
with Director Josef Mason of the Colorado Boxing Commission (CBC),
MMAWeekly has learned that the commission is just about set to
institute some changes in the state that will affect both amateur
and professional mixed martial arts fighters and promoters.
First
off, the state is just about set to move forward with some new
regulations that will put more responsibility on the shoulders
of promoters of amateur mixed martial arts events. Thus far,
amateur MMA promotions in the state have been largely unsanctioned.
Mason
told MMAWeekly that the CBC is just about ready to institute
new policies that would require amateur event promoters to carry
a minimum amount of medical insurance for the fighters, as well
as having medical care available at all times during the event,
among other possible requirements. “It’s all about
fighter safety,” says Mason.
Most
around the state see these requirements as just a common sense
issue and are supportive of the commission’s stance. Ring
of Fire promoter Sven Bean said that he was “all for it”
and that it would only help to “keep things safe for the
fighters.”
This
really only affects those promoters who run shows under questionable
circumstances and tend to stray away from the common sense practices
that the commission is wanting to enforce. There are various
“fight club” type promotions that do not adhere to
weight classes, carry insurance, or have any trained medical
personnel available should a fighter suffer an injury that needs
immediate attention. These are the promotions that will feel
the brunt of the new rules.
The
most respected MMA promoters in the state (such as Bean, who
runs both amateur and professional promotions; Steve Alley, who
runs the Kickdown Classic, both amateur and professional bouts;
and Keith Schmeltzer of Proving Grounds) have instituted such
policies from the get go and should feel little affect from the
CBC’s new policies when they are instituted.
The
second major change that the commission will be instituting is
a little more debated, the rules that dictate a professional
fighter. Mason was clear to state that he will be taking the
matter under consultation with other athletic commissions, but
that he is currently leaning towards considering a professional
boxer, kickboxer or mixed martial artist to be one and the same.
This
means that, basically, if a competitor competes as a professional
in any of the three sports (boxing, kickboxing, or mixed martial
arts), he or she will be considered a professional in any of
the other sports. Mason’s main concern is that a fighter
could become so skilled in his or her specific sport that they
could cross over into the other sport with a relative novice
and inflict major damage or, at the least, provide unfair contests.
Many
in the state argue that a professional boxer or kickboxer may
not last long in the ring with even a novice mixed martial artist
and needs time to acquire the skills to become a well rounded
MMA fighter. It’s an understandable argument, but one that
Mason seems to feel isn’t worth the risk of an amateur athlete’s
health.
In
Colorado, nearly anyone can enter the ring as an amateur competitor.
Not much is required other than the promoter’s acceptance
of the fighter’s desire to participate. This leaves the
door wide open for mismatches of a varying degree, which could
potentially be very risky to a competitor’s health. Right
or wrong, the commission seems to be leaning towards the professional-in-one,
professional-in-all approach to help curb the possibility of
such mismatches.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
SMALL
PROMOTIONS CONTINUE TO GROW
We have seen smaller promotions really make a name for themselves
in the past couple of years. Companies like Rumble on the Rock, Hook N Shoot and others have really
grown in the past couple of years, but a show that continues
to get bigger and biggers is World Extreme Cagefighting. All
you need to do is look at the picture above to see how popular
WEC is becoming with the fans.
World
Extreme Cagefighting proved once again that it is one of the
top MMA shows in the nation with it’s sold out "WEC
X Bragging Rights" show produced last Friday May 21st at
The Palace Indian Gaming Center in Lemoore California. Crowd
estimates topped 5000 and created an evening of all out excitement
for both the fans and the fighters. The event is believed to
be the largest Mixed Martial Arts event ever held in California.
When
a fighter comes out and the sound system is literally shaking
the entire venue and they see a crowd of over 5000 fans cheering
them on, it just makes for more exciting and compelling fights"
states Scott Adams, President and match maker for the WEC.
Reed
Harris, who is in charge of production of the show was very pleased
with the event and wanted to extend his thanks to all those who
helped make the show a success "I especially want to point
out to the fans out there that these shows would not take place
without the absolute commitment of the staff and the tribe at
The Palace Indian Gaming Center…The have become some of
MMA’s biggest supporters! I especially want to thank Christian
Printup, The Events Manager at The Palace."
"He
is not only the best event manager on the West Coast, but understands
the sport, the fighters and most of all, what the fans want to
see. We approach every show as a team with the goal of putting
on the best show possible." "As always, Paul Smith
Commissioner of the IFC was on hand and oversaw the sanctioning
of the event and we always appreciate his expertise".
While
the WEC continues to work together as a team, it's interesting
to note how many fighters in the WEC have gone on to fight in
the Octagon. Eight fighters from recent shows have not only competed
in the Octagon but won their matches, including Nick Diaz KO'ing
Robbie Lawler at UFC 47. This organization has made a commitment
to bringing in world class level fighters.
Chuck
"The Iceman" Liddell attended the last show and as
Scott Adams, told MMAWeekly "the last time I saw him he
was still signing autographs about 45 minutes after the show
had ended and still had about a 100 people crowded around him…he
has always supported WEC and we really appreciate it. He is a
credit to the sport".
Another
reason why MMA is so great because the fighters truly love the
fans and the fans appreciate the effort fighters give everytime
they step in the ring. When was the last time you Shaquille O'Neal
sit around and talk with the fans about his upcoming game in
the NBA Playoffs?
WEC
is one of the few shows that is working with television networks.
WEC 10 was filmed by HDNET, the high definition television network
owned by Mark Cuban, owner of the Dallas Mavericks. The network
recorded two different shows for future broadcast, as the broadcasting
team was made up of MMA broadcast veterans Jeff Blatnick, Ryan
Bennett and Stephan Quadros.
The
latest word from HDNET is that WEC X "BAGGING RIGHTS"
will premier on Wednesday June 2 at 7:00 p.m. Pacific 10:00 Eastern.
It's
amazing to see this promotion grow up over the past two years.
The WEC has gone from being a new promotion, to one of the most
successful promotions in not only California, but the United
States as well. The WEC's next show will be in August on the
20th. In the meantime WEC will continue to grow as they now have
become on of the premiere companies in the United States.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
Pride
in Curitiba adds Meca's card
The
Pride promoters are already in Curitiba (PR) and brought with
them some news for Meca 11, which happens on June 6th in Teresópolis
(RJ). Nobuhiko Takada and other five members of Pride, not satisfied
in watch the event, decided to add the card with Japanese fighter
Wataro Takashima. Takada's pupil will face a local fighter, member
of Bita academy. Besides the Pride members, are in Curitiba the
Fuji TV crew.
In
Cutitiba, the Japanese met Chute Boxe's academy and they are
on the way to Minas Gerais to watch the soccer game Brazil Vs
Argentina, by the World Cup trials. After this, the Japanese
crew goes to Rio. According Chute Boxe's leader, Rudimar Fedrigo,
Takada is anxious about Meca. 'He is counting on his fingers
the days for Meca," revelaed Rudimar, who also guaranteed
high members of Pride on the event: 'The president Sasakibara
has already confirmed his presence and vice-president Sotaro
Shinoda is on the way'.
News
don't stop in there. Jenigleison Tibau (Kimura/Nova União)
is also confirmed at Meca 11. He will face Spanish fighter, member
from brand new Chute Boxe Spain. Besides the new filial in Europe,
Rudimar announces other new Chute Boxe's filial. Chute Boxe Bervely
Hills, with Marcos Vinícius's partnership, promises to
rock California in the end of July.
Take
a look at the other fights at Meca 11 (subject to change):
-
Alex Gazé Vs André Jacão;
- Suyan Queiroz Vs Luciano Azevedo;
- Ivan Batman Vs Alexandre Baixinho;
- Luciano Cardoso Vs Parazinho;
- Junior Besouro Vs Luiz Brito;
- Delson Pé de Chumbo Vs Jorge Patino Macaco;
- Daniel Acácio Vs Eric Tavares;
- Jadyson Costa Vs Milton Vieira;
- Gustavo Ximu Vs Nilson Castro;
- Luiz Azeredo Vs Tony de Souza.
Source:
Tatame
|
Brazil's
ADCC 2005 trial in two phases
Changes at ADCC 2005 trials in Brazil. In opposite to feature
a circuit with four phases, plus a fifth one, the Brazilian trial
will be held in two phases. The beginning of the disputes will
be held in November (27 and 28) in Campos dos Goytacazes. The
four qualified will join together with invited fighters and will
do the final on December 11th and 12th at the Ibirapuera gymnasium,
in São Paulo.
For
Campos, 32 athletes will be chosen by categories and will fight
under trails system. Who wants to join ADCC Brazil Trials 2004
must send a resume to the event's organization. The address will
be released soon. It will be accepted resumes from graduated
fighters from any modality. The refereeing will be made by ADCC,
with international referees in Rio and São Paulo, with
TV coverage by BandSports.
Responsible
for Brazilian trails, former Kickboxing World Champion Paulo
Zorello explains that the reduction of four phases for two ones
had to be made to increase the quality of the process. "We
want to democratize the trail's access. All fighters now can
apply and who knows have a chance to run for the gap. My history
does not come from the ground fight and because of it, I can
be neutral during the trial. Who owns a good resume will be invited.
Four trials would be very expensive, once we would count with
international referees," explains Zorello, who remembers
that champion and vice will be qualified for ADCC 2005.
Source: Tatame
|
Ricardo
Cachorrão is Gracie for a day
He
was one of the responsible fighters for the victory of Gracie
Team over Japan Team at Pride Bushido 3, held on last May 23rd
in Japan. Ricardo Almeida, known as Cachorrão, beat Ryo
Chonan by referee's decision. BJJ black belt under Renzo Gracie,
Cachorrão, tried to do everything to submit his opponent,
in many different situation, but he couldn't finish it. Other
factor which bothered Almeida was the jet leg. 'I don't wanna
blame on it, but the jet leg bothered me a little bit,"
revealed the BJJ fighter during an exclusive interview you may
read here at TATAME.com in the end of the day. Keep tuned!
Source: MMA Weekly
|
Quote
of the Day
"If you don't like something, change it, If you can't change
it, change your attitude."
Maya Angelou, 1928-, African-American poet, Writer, Performer
|
THE
ROAD TO THE CHAMPIONSHIP CONTINUES - CRITICAL COUNTDOWN 2004
LOS ANGELES, California – The four match ups for the second
round of the sixteen-man heavyweight tournament, CRITICAL COUNTDOWN
2004, have been announced. The event will take place on June
20th, 2004 from the Saitama Super Arena in Japan and is scheduled
to debut on North American pay per view on same day delay.
At
TOTAL ELIMINATION 2004 in April, sixteen fighters started, now
eight remain!
Fight
Card:
- Fedor Emelianenko vs. Kevin “The Monster” Randleman
- Antonio Rodrigo “Minotauro” Nogueira vs. “The
Texas Crazy Horse” Heath Herring
- Paulo Cesar “Giant” Silva vs. Naoya Ogawa
- Semmy Schilt vs. Sergei Kharitonov
Several
more non-tournament matches will be announced soon. Fight Card
Subject to Change.
In
the first announced match for the second round of the tournament,
reigning PRIDE FC heavyweight champion Fedor Emelianenko will
take on former UFC heavyweight champion Kevin “The Monster”
Randleman. Emelianenko is one of the hardest hitters in the sport,
but besides his heavy hands, he is also technically versed in
submissions (he was the 1997 Russian National Judo & Sambo
Champion, the 1997 European Sambo Champion and placed first in
the 2002 World Sambo Championships in the heavyweight division).
In the first round of the tournament, Emelianenko eliminated
2000 Grand Prix champion Mark “The Hammer” Coleman
with a lightning quick arm bar from the guard. Now he is set
to take on Coleman’s top student and teammate, Kevin Randleman!
“The Monster” was a state-wrestling champion in high
school and also wrestled for Ohio State University where he was
a three-time All-American and two time national champion. Randleman
is coming off of one of the biggest upsets in mixed martial arts
history after his KO victory over the seemingly invincible Mirko
“Cro Cop” Filipovic during the first round. With Coleman
in his corner, Randleman is looking to eliminate another of the
tournament favorites in Fedor Emelianenko.
In
the second bout, PRIDE FC interim heavyweight champion, Antonio
Rodrigo “Minotauro” Nogueira will take on Heath Herring
of Texas. A member of the Brazilian Top Team, Nogueira is one
of the finest practitioners of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in the world.
Whether on the ground or standing toe to toe, “Minotauro”
can mix it up, peppering his opponents with quick jabs and knees
from the clinch. In the first round of the tournament, Nogueira
eliminated a very game opponent in Japan’s Hirotaka Yokoi.
Fighting out of Holland and representing Team Golden Glory, “The
Texas Crazy Horse” Heath Herring brings with him a well-balanced
arsenal of submissions, strikes, and wrestling. Always a top
contender in the heavyweight division, Herring eliminated Japanese
fighter Yoshiki Takahashi via KO during the first round of the
tournament. Now Herring moves on to possible redemption, as his
match with Nogueira is not only to advance in the tournament
but also a long-awaited rematch! These two previously met in
the ring in 2001 at PRIDE FC: CHAMPIONSHIP CHAOS in which Nogueira
won via decision in one of the most action-packed heavyweight
bouts in PRIDE FC history.
In
the third bout, Giant Silva will go head to head with Japanese
star Naoya Ogawa. At 7’5” and 528 lbs, Paulo Silva
Cesar, better known as “Giant Silva,” is one of the
most imposing physical specimens ever to compete in mixed martial
arts. With his incredible strength and reach advantage, he constantly
poses match-up problems for his opponents. In the first round
of the tournament, Silva was very impressive, submitting Sumo
wrestler Henry “Sentoryu” Miller. The 6’4”,
253-pound Ogawa is a silver medallist in Judo (at the 1992 Barcelona
Olympic Games) and brings in a mixed martial arts record of 6-0.
In the first round of the tournament, Ogawa eliminated K-1 striker
Stefan Leko by choke.
In
the final tournament bout of the night, Russia’s Sergei
Kharitonov will face Dutchman Semmy Schilt. Kharitonov hails
from Moscow, Russia and this undefeated fighter (8-0) has quietly
made his presence felt in mixed martial arts; in his two PRIDE
FC appearances he was impressive, armbarring both of his opponents
(Jason Nobunaga and L.A. Giant). In the first round of the tournament,
Kharitonov completely dismantled the dangerous Murilo “Ninja”
Rua via KO. The pride of Holland, the nearly seven-foot tall
Semmy Schilt is an expert kick boxer who uses his reach advantage
to cause havoc in mixed martial arts. Schilt is devastating on
his feet, often using a massive barrage of punches, kicks, and
knees to overwhelm his opponents. Thus far during his career,
this Golden Glory team member has won the titles of Hokutoki
DaiDoyuko Champion and King of Pancrase. In the first round of
the tournament, Schilt dispatched “Big” Gan McGee via
arm bar.
The
schedule for the tournament is as follows:
PRIDE
FC 16-Man Heavyweight Tournament
CRITICAL
COUNTDOWN 2004
June 20, 2004
Saitama Super Arena
(Second Round)
FINAL
CONFLICT 2004
August 15, 2004
Saitama Super Arena
(Semi-Finals and Finals)
PRIDE
FC: CRITICAL COUNTDOWN 2004 will premiere on North American pay
per view through iNDEMAND, DIRECTV, DISH NETWORK, UrbanXtra,
TVN1, Bell Express Vu, and Viewer’s Choice Canada on Sunday,
June 20th, 2004. The premiere time is 9:00pm EST, 6:00pm PST
and the count down show is at 8:30pm EST, 5:30pm PST. For additional
replay times, please contact your pay per view provider or pridefc.com.
Participants
and fight card are subject to change.
For
more information on PRIDE FC, visit http://pridefc.com!
Source:
ADCC |
WEC
post-fight with 155 champ Gilbert Melendez
In
WEC X “Bragging Rights” four championship belts were
awarded, the North American Heavyweight, North American Lightweight,
World Welterweight, and World Lightweight belts. In the World
Lightweight title fight local hero Olaf Alfonso took on Cesar
Gracie’s Gilbert Melendez.
For
three rounds Gilbert mixed standing toe to toe with Olaf with
total domination on the ground. Olaf couldn’t stop Gilbert’s
high altitude slams, unusual to see in a Lightweight match. On
the ground Melendez kept Olaf down and threw punches as he would
advance from guard to full mount. Olaf had some minor scoring
on the feet and tried for two kimuras from guard but aside from
that was on defense the entire fight. With only six seconds left
in the fight Gilbert, again mounted on Olaf,
KM:
Congratulations on winning the belt. How do you feel about having
the belt?
GM: I’m happy. I’m just happy I won. I worked really
hard for it and I was looking forward to fighting Alfonso because
everyone likes him and I thought it would be a good victory.
KM:
He’s a big local favorite but you are Team Cesar Gracie.
GM: Definitely. He’s tough. I just stuck to my gameplan.
He beat one of our boys. I thought I was a better wrestler, better
at jiu-jitsu. He had good feet; I tried to bang with him a little
but I wanted to stick to my gameplan which was to take him down,
get good position, and pound him.
KM:
You showed a hole in his game.
GM: I tried.
KM:
With him being the fight of the night on the last WEC and people
who aren’t familiar with Team Cesar Gracie looking at you
as an underdog does this feel like the biggest fight of your
career?
GM: My last fight was against Stephen “Bozo” Paling who is the #1 ranked Shooto champ
but he is 145. That was my biggest fight ever. I cut down for
that fight and came out with a victory there as well but I think
that was probably my biggest fight right there. He is very well
rounded and more recognized, a real fighter instead of just a
local favorite. No credit taken away from Olaf, he was tough.
KM:
First time I saw you was in WEC 6. Wasn’t that a week or
so notice?
GM: It was that day notice. I just came back from spring break.
I train all the time. Frank Shamrock was the headliner and I
was confident enough I had to take advantage of that opportunity
when someone like Frank Shamrock is headlining. I want to fight
on the same card so people are going to watch the show and see
me too. I think the promoters like it as well too if I’m
willing to step up and invite me back.
KM:
This one you had how much notice?
GM: About a month notice. I was training hard and getting ready
twice a day getting pushed hard by Jake Shields all the time.
I went up to David Terrell’s school and worked out with
some of his top students and Cesar Gracie. Sparring with Nate
Diaz, Nick’s little brother, sparring with Nick Diaz…everything
was cool, I just worked out hard.
KM:
That is just it…with Team Cesar Gracie there are so many
high level fighters like Jake Shields fighting in Shooto, David
Terrell in Pancrase and supposed to be in that Abu Dhabi submission
show…how does it feel to train with those people? Is it
at all intimidating?
GM: No, it’s great. I love to bang and it’s an honor
to be able to train with people like Jake Shields, David Terrell,
Nick Diaz, Gil Castillo…all I can do is take advantage of
the opportunity and grow from it. That is what I do.
KM:
In the past year it seems like you have been overshadowed by
the success of the other Cesar Gracie fighters. Is it now your
time?
GM: If Cesar says ‘fight’ I fight. I’ll fight
whoever, whenever. I’m not saying I’m the best but
I’ll still fight whoever whenever. I love everyone on my
team, they help me become who I am. That doesn’t matter
to me, my time will come.
KM:
How old are you now?
GM: 22. Just turned 22 in April.
KM:
Happy birthday. Any sponsors to thank?
GM: Fairtex started sponsoring me with some gear. R&L Plumbing,
a Bay Area plumbing.
One
note about the belt is the other WEC world belts are getting
to be pretty prestigious. Ron Waterman won the Super Heavyweight
belt and moved on to Pancrase and Pride. Mike Kyle won the Light
Heavyweight belt and was next in the UFC. Chris Leben won the
Middleweight belt in January an has been much hyped since then
although a cut in a loss to Team Extreme’s Joe Doerkson
a week prior to this show forced the cancellation of a belt defense
on this card. Finally the Welterweight belt won by Shonie Carter
against J.T. Taylor on this card was fought for and won by fellow
UFC vet Karo Parisyan, believed by many to be on his way right
back to the UFC. Will Gilbert quickly follow in the footsteps
of Nick Diaz to the UFC or Jake Shields to Shooto? Will he take
another year or so to step up to that level? Only time will tell
but in the meantime he has made quite an impression in a very
small time.
Source:
ADCC |
Schembri
vs Sakuraba: The rematch!
On
April 25th, the Japanese star Kazushi Sakuraba stepped into the
ring of the 3rd edition of Bushido, grabbed the microphone and
said out and loud. ‘There are many fighters I have fought
that I would like to TKO in the future. I’ll fight every
single one of them. I’ll be here, at the Saitama Super Arena,
next june 20th even if the don’t want me to,’ said
Sak.
Today,
his promise became real as he was confirmed to face the Brazilian
Jiu-Jitsu star Antonio ‘Elvis’ Schembri on the next
Pride’s GP edition, schedule to take place on June 20th.
It is going to be the second fight between them. At the first
one, during the Pride 25, on March of 2003, Nino Schembri TKOed
Sakuraba using his knees.
Now,
recently transferred to Chute Boxe, Nino wants to beat Sakuraba
again and get back into the track of success. ‘When I came
to Chute Boxe, I got focused again. I liked being part of a new
family and I always dreamed with the opportunity to fight Sakuraba
again,’ said Nino.
Nino
made a short break during his training in Curitiba to share with
us some of his impressions about his next opponent. ‘I consider
Sakuraba a great fighter for everything he’s done. He always
attracts a great audience and, losing or winning, he is a showman.
Besides that, as a top fighter, he is complete. He knows how
to fight on the ground and has good striking skills. He is one
of the most perfect fighters in Pride,’ said Nino.
Nino
is aware of the six months period Sakuraba stayed away from the
ring. The fact of the Japanese has lost five of his seven last
fights does not mean anything to the chuteboxer. ‘He faced
many fighters much bigger than him. The only one he fought that
was smaller was I. Maybe this is the reason for his several losses,’
stated Nino.
Pride
GP
June 20th
Saitama Super Arena, Japan
Card
official line-up:
Special
matches:
Kazushi
Sakuraba vs Antonio 'Elvis' Schembri
Quinton 'Rampage' Jackson vs Ricardo Arona
Mark Hunt vs Hidehiko Yoshida
Pride
GP 2nd fase:
Fedor
Emelianenko vs Kevin Randleman
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira vs Heath Herring
Naoya Ogawa vs Giant Silva
Sergey Kharitonov vs Semmy Schilt
Source:
ADCC |
Interview:
ATT's RICARDO LIBORIO
What
made you decide to move from Brazil to America and to open your
own school? I was one of the founders of the Brazilian Top Team.
As Minotauro was fighting against Mark Coleman, I prepared him
for that fight and I was there in Japan with him. – he finished
him with the Triangle Choke – yes that’s right. He
finished him with a triangle. So someone offered me to teach
in Japan for six months, and I’ve started training there
but at the same time, I’ve had to fly to the United States,
because Murilo was fighting in the UFC against Chuck Liddell
(UFC 33 – lost against Liddell on Points). There in the
US I’ve met my new Partner Marcellus and I’ve told
him that I have a offer in Japan to stay there for six months
but my Marcellus told me, to stay on America and coach there.
I agreed, because Japan is a total different culture and we mostly
worked / fought in America and at the same time, I could develop
my English better. So after 4 Months they offered me to open
a School there. I agreed and sold my parts of the Brazilian Top
Team to my Partners and I bought the right to build the American
Top Team. And nowadays its one of the biggest team in the states.
We have really good fighters who take part in MMA Events, Submission
Wrestling Events and all that.
Do
you often go to Brazil and what do you miss most, about not living
in Brazil? What I miss most is my family and friends. I used
to go often to Brazil, but now I’m in America, I have a
American Wife, so I can't go so often anymore to Brazil because
I have a lot of responsibility because of my family and also
my school. Sometimes its tough, but I prepare to go to Brazil
in August.
What
made you decide to become a professional Fighter and Coach and
what’s important to become professional? I graduated with
business administration in Brazil and was a manager in a Bank.
But then one day I realised, that this is something I love to
do, so as I’ve won the World Championships in the States,
I’ve got sponsorship from the Bank of Brazil and I was training
a lot. And as the sponsorship contract ended, I really decided
to become professional, because this is my dream – I’m
good in it and I wanted to make my dream come true. To make money
with the work, that you would like to do. So this was the reason,
why I’ve decided to become professional and I just can say,
that I’m really happy.
Do you have a dream? Yeah – my dream is to make to ATT the
best team in the world. This is my dream and this is what I wonna
do – this is what I’m gonna do! At Deep2001 you fought
against Ikuhisa Minowa and the fight ended in a draw.
Was
there any possibility of a re-match? Well, the thing is, that
I’ve trained to become a pro-fighter, as I had a accident.
I broke my jaw and lost four teeth. I was preparing for a tournament
in Saudi Arabia long time ago. So as I broke my jaw, I had to
have surgery and the doctor told me, that I can't train for at
least seven months. So at that time, Murilo and Mario was training
both for a fight so I’ve started to coach them. And I’ve
realized that my coaching was really good. And this made me think
about it. You know, its really hard to be the best fighter and
to be the best coach at the same time. Its nearly not possible
to concentrate and put everything together to be on top as a
fighter and as a coach. So because I’ve realized, that I’m
really good in coaching, I’ve decided to continue coaching.
But I like to fight again! When you saw my fight against Minowa,
you could clearly see, that I dominated him. – I haven’t
seen the fight for myself, so I will check it out. – It
was a really good fight. But I’m really not interested in
a re-match. – Yeah and also he belongs now to the BTT, right?
– Yes his part of the Brazilian Top Team, he is a really
nice guy. But I’m thinking about it to compete in the United
States. But at the moment I have to concentrate on my coaching
for my fighters, so It will take some more time.
What
do you like most about your Job and what you don’t like?
I like everything. I’m really satisfied with what I’m
doing. I realized that I could do it professionally and also
earn money with it at the same time – I love it. What I
don’t like so much is, that I can't train that much to be
the fighter that I like to be. So I choose to be a coach right
now. – I understand, also for Mario Sperry it must be difficult
to be a coach and a fighter at the same time – definitely!
Its really hard. I would like to be the best in everything that
I do. And I’m in the best sport in the world, so I’m
trying…
What’s
your favorite vacation spot? Well, you know, I love to travel,
but as far as vacation goes, I like to rest. There is no better
place in the world for me as home, where I can rest. I just love
to be at home and to spend time with my family. But I also love
to go to Brazil and I like surfing a lot. Also Costa Rica is
nice, but when I really like to rest, I choose my house.
During
a fight, or while you coach someone and the fight is running,
what’s going on in your mind? The best thing for a fighter
during the fight is try to stay calm. I think the secret is to
be really rational about everything. As a coach and as a fighter,
you need to be focused. And don’t let your emotions come
out, that your pissed off because of something. Just do your
thing and be focused on it. I think, that’s the most important
thing.
How
does a day in your life looks like? Oh my god … (laughs)
… I get up around 5AM – so early? – yeah, with
my wife. Then I go jogging with my wife and after that, around
8AM, I go to work, teach there until noon and take a break for
lunch, go back again to the dojo at around 3.30PM and stay there
until 9PM. So really whole day teaching the Professionals and
also Amateurs. If I’m not working, Then I do Seminars or
go with my fighters to events, where they compete. –
Is
your training 7 days a week? – no, 6 days in the week.
What kind of fighting style do you teach? Only BJJ or also other
styles? I teach BJJ and I coach the Pro NHB fighters. You call
it here freestyle, right – freefight – ah yeah, freefight.
So I have a lot of experience about that and I coach a lot of
really good guys. But I also try to bring in good Boxing, Wresting
and Muay Thai Coaches. They train separately but I connect them
and I’m responsible for that.
You
was the Co-Founder of the Brazilian Top Team and was the Founder
of the American Top Team. In Russia there is the Russian Top
Team and now Germany has also there own Top Team. What do you
think about that? When I had the idea to create the American
Top Team, I told to many people to open their Top Team in different
countries, but they didn’t realized about that. When I opened
the ATT I did it by myself. I guess they just followed the Idea,
but the Russians for instance are not connected to the Brazilian
Team.
Any
final word to the European Martial Arts Fans? I think you guys
in here doing really good work and build up something big. We
are the founders of the thing, the Sport we created it. And to
bring it to Europe is great! MMA is the sport of the Future.
– I also think so! – Nobody has doubt about that. And
you guys has big possibility because of the different location
in here, so its going to be big in here too.
Thanks
a lot for the Interview! No problem, thank you too.
Source:
ADCC |
|
After
changing its name due to legal reasons, Brazil's MECA event is
good to go!.
In
order to fullfill legal requirements, Meca World Vale Tudo has
changed it's name to Meca Fighting Championship. The reason is
that the term 'Vale Tudo' in Brazil brings the old concept of
'Anything goes' which we are far from nowadays. Technically,
'vale tudo' is forbidden in Brazil, due to the lack of protection
for the fighter's health. 'The city of Teresopolis is welcoming
us once again but we had to explain to the Justice department
the difference between Vale Tudo and MMA' stated Meca promoter
Jorge Guimaraes. Although the rules of Meca fullfill the concept
of MMA (Rules are similar to Pride), the official name had the
term 'Vale Tudo' included , which caused some confusion among
officials. After 2 or 3 meetings, the promoters decided to change
the name to Meca Fighting Championship in order to follow the
worldwide pattern for MMA shows.
'We
had to show them which rules we have and which were the differences
between MMA and Vale Tudo. To make this very clear we have plenty
of material from the International Valetudo Championship, held
years ago when we were able to see bloodfests and fighters performing
without gloves or protection. On the one hand, we had extra work,
but on the other hand now we are sure that we did our part to
advance the sport, because if anyone is willing to promote a
MMA show they can't without following the high standard request
by officials' continues Jorge Guimaraes.
Jorge
Guimaraes told us also that he is very pumped with the guests
that they will have at this upcoming show 'It's definately an
honor to be the first event in the world to have Pride CEO Nobuyuki
Sakakibara and Producer Nobuhiko Takada as our guests. This makes
everybody give 101%. From promoters, increases our responsability
on putting an even better event and for fighters give an extra
incentive to perform , since the eyes of Pride promoters can
recognize their sweat with a chance on Pride Bushido events which
have a full schedulle until the end of this year. I am going
to Teresopolis tomorrow in order to take care of final adjustments
for the production to get everything ready. We are expecting
a crowded venue, even more than in the last edition there. Teresopolis
is the only city but the hometown of Meca, Curitiba, to host
our show and we are back here because the audience is great and
the city is doing everything to make this possible.Tomorrow we
gonna have more surprises on the card since Pride representatives
withnessing our efforts to make a great show, are willing to
have one representative fighting in our show. When we think nothing
could be even better we have this kind of surprise!!' - finalizes
Guimaraes.
Source:
ADCC |
Quote
of the Day
"Some men see things as they are and say, Why?
I Dream things that never were, and say, Why not?"
George Bernard Shaw 1856-1950, Irish-born British Dramatist
|
Super
Brawl 36:
Big fight for Vitale & Return of the 155lb Tourney 
HONOLULU, Hawaii -- For Niko Vitale, his time in the spotlight
was far too short.
After shocking the world with a win over Matt Lindland in his
UFC debut, the victory and his abilities seemed to be forgotten
when he lost to Lindland in his UFC rematch six months later.
Even an impressive win over former UFC champion Dave Menne didn't
get the telephone ringing with offers from the bigger events.
However, on Friday, June 18, Vitale hopes to open some eyes in
Japan when he faces Yushin Okami, a two-time Pride winner with
an 8-1 record, in the main event of Super Brawl 36.
"This is the kind of opponent who is very respected in Japan,"
promoter T.Jay Thompson said of Okami. "I feel very fortunate
to get him to come here and give Vitale a chance to show what
he can do. Of course, an impressive win by Vitale should open
some doors for him."
Vitale has a 17-3 record and has been one of the most consistent
of a large group of successful Hawaiian fighters. His record
includes nine victories in his last 10 fights, with the lone
loss coming to Lindland.
In addition to Vitale-Okami main event, the Super Brawl/Extreme
Challenge tournament returns... this time with some of the nation's
top up-and-coming 155-pounders.
Competing in the event are:
Bart
Palaszewski of Chicago... a student of Jeff Curran, Palaszewski
has a record of 8-3, but has won eight in a row.
Roger
Huerta of Minneapolis... a student of Dave Menne, Huerta has
a 9-0-1 record and a solid college wrestling background.
Justin
James of Omaha, Neb... an explosive fighter who has a 6-4 record
and the abilty to end fights quickly.
Ryan
Schultz of Gresham, Or... a member of Team Quest with a 6-2 record
that includes a recent win over UFC veteran Gil Castillo.
Harris
Sarmiento of Honolulu...
member of 808 Fight Factory with a 10-7 record. Has won 7 of
his last 8 bouts.
Kolo
Koka of Honolulu...
a member of Grappling Unlimited with an 8-5 record. A solid 170-pounder
who recently made the move to 155.
Dain
Agbayani of Honolulu...
trained with 808 Fight Factory and sports a 4-4 record.
Mike
Aina of Hilo...
a member of BJ Penn's MMA with a 1-0 record. A bit of a darkhorse
in the tournament, but comes with Penn's recommedation.
Also
on the card will be the comeback of 808 Fight Factory coach Kai
Kamaka. He will face Tony Espitia who also trains on Hilo.
MAIN EVENT
Niko Vitale 17-3, Grappling Unlimited/808 Fight Factory
Vitale
is coming off an impressive victory over former UFC Champion
Dave Menne. Although he still has his sights set on the UFC,
a win over Okami could easily land him in one of the biggest
events in Japan.
Vs.
Yushin Okami 8-1 Wajyutsu, Tokyo Japan
Okami
is 2-0 in Pride events, including the last Bushido, and has a
strong ground and pound style. Look for him to fight Niko's aggressive
style with more aggression.
Source:
Super Brawl |
PRIDE
GP: June Brackets Announced!
PRIDE Heavyweight GRAND PRIX - Second Round
June 20th, 2004
Saitama Super Arena, Tokyo, Japan
DSE
officially announced the PRIDE GP 2nd round matchups.
PRIDE
Heavyweight GP:
- Emelianenko Fedor vs Kevin Randleman
- Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira vs Heath Herring
- Naoya Ogawa vs Giant Silva
- Semmy Schilt vs Sergei Kharitonov
OTHER
RUMORED MATCHES:
- Quinton 'Rampage' Jackson vs Ricardo Arona
- Kazushi Sakuraba vs Nino 'Elvis' Schembri
- Mark Hunt vs Hidehiko Yoshida
Additionally,
the big announcement of K-1 star Mark Hunt appearing on this
event may be DSE's first salvo in their battle with K-1. K-1's
first all MMA event 'ROMANEX' got good reviews, but seems to
have suffered from low attendance and ratings, and there are
rumors of a worked match or two (who knows). K-1 is rumored to
be planning 'ROMANEX 2' this fall. There are rumors of a bidding
war between PRIDE and K-1 for 28-year old Judo star Yoshihiro
Akiyama .
Meanwhile,
the postponed Yuki Kondo vs. Vanderlei Silva bout appears to
be officially set for the 8/15 PRIDE event at Saitama Super Arena.
Takada also stated that while any plans for PRIDE in Las Vegas
in September have been postponed, there will be an expansion
of PRIDE in America and Brazil in 2005.
*The
source of some of this material is http://www.puroresupower.com/.
Source:
ADCC |
MAYEHM
ADDRESSES THE FANS
The following story was on the Underground as Jason "Mayhem"
Miller addressed the fans about his situation of why he isn't
fighting at the next UFC. You can also see an interview we did
many months back "In the Cage" with Mayhem Miller.
"About
8 months ago I was (here) in Atlanta at some boxing fights. One
of my friends fought that night, and won, so I was really excited,
and was having a good time. I hadn't drank a bit, but was still
acting wild. One of my buddies was drunk, and outta nowhere grabbed
me and picked me up. I started laughing, but some squirrel neck
came over and started acting like a tough-guy, first grabbing
my buddy, then pushed me. I didn't overreact, then, my girlfriend
came up yelling and the guy grabbed her in an improper manner
and gave her a nice uppercut..... So I Knocked him out. one punch,
a very expensive one. Security tossed me out and I was very courteous
to them. While I was getting into the LA Boxing Escalade, the
cops chased me down with guns drawn and took me to jail. I spent
23 hours in jail for simple assault, (a misdemeanor) and they
released me with everything done. That was 8 months ago. "
"Apparently,
This sissy, who STARTED the fight in the first place, finds out
I'm a pro-fighter, files a 200,000 dollar lawsuit, AND gets the
DA to file Assault with a Deadly weapon charges on me. Soooo.....
I'm on my way to training exactly 31 days ago, and get in a minor
fender bender. I exchange info with the guy, he calls the cops,
and I give my ID to the officers when they show up. Next thing
I know, "GET ON THE GROUND!!" and I'm like "Huh?"
They take me to Las Vegas Jail, hold me for 20 days, then Stuff
me on a School bus full of Scum and cart me all over the country
for another 10 days, without stepping off the bus once, until
I come to Atlanta, where my lawyer gets me out the next day."
"So,
in short, I got screwed over, but I had alot of time for introspection,
and realized alot of things about myself.
The guy has no case, I only reacted in self defense, and the
defense of my friends, so I'm sure everything will turn out for
the best, but I'm positive it will be a long and expensive headache.
I just want to apologize to the few fans I have that my UFC debut
will be delayed. Now my main focus is that both Phil Baroni and
J Hieron win their fights.
MayheM
Source:
MMA Weekly |
Jens
Pulver beats Parrumpinha at NAGA
BJJ black belt Fábio Holanda (Brazilian Top Team), has
conquered the under 175lbs division at Naga Grappling Championship,
which happened it's debut in Chicago on last May 22nd. Responsible
by trains at BTT in Boston, Holanda shared the $1,000 with America
Top Team fighter JZ Calvacante. The winner of the category over
175lbs was ATT fighter Jeff Monson. In one of the super-fights
of the event, Brazilian Marcos "Parrumpinha" Damatta
ended defeated by American Jens Pulver. Marcos also got a tight
triangle, but lost the position and allowed Jens score and win
the bout.
COMPLETE
RESULTS:
Danny
Ives (Bolao) submitted Bob Schirmer (Combat-Do) via rear naked
choke
John Stutzman (Jorge Gurgel) defeated Jeff Curran (Curran's MA)
by points
Jens Pulver (Miletich Martial Arts) defeated Marcos "Parrumpinha"
Damatta (American Top Team) by points.
Source:
Tatame |
PANCRASE
SIGNS EX-SUMO WRESTLER
Wakashoyo
The
Japanese media report that Pancrase has signed 38-year old ex-Sumo
wrestler Wakashoyo.
Wakashoyo
is 5'11 (1.81 m) and 350 pounds (160 kg). He was also an elder
pupil of Sumo grand champions Takanohana and Wakanohana.
Source:
Fight Sport |
|
FILHO
VS. FUJITA
The
Japanese media is reporting that K-1 wants to make an MMA matchup
of Francisco Filho vs. Kazuyuki Fujita for their next 'Romanex'
show, which is tentatively scheduled for September.
Source:
Fight Sport |
|