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October 2005 News
Part 3
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10/31/05 Happy Halloween! |
Happy
Halloween!
Please keep an eye on your children and warn them to watch for
cars while they are out, tell them to never enter anyone's house,
and to trick or treat in groups. Finally, make sure that they
wait until their parents inspect the candies before they eat
them.
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a fun and safe Halloween from Onzuka.com!
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Quote
of the Day
"Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which
it is impossible to be silent."
Victor Hugo, 1802-1885, French Poet/Dramatist/Novelist
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Rei
Zulu keeps fighting
At age 58, mythical MMA fighter faces adversities typical to
the Brazilian population, but still struggles for consecration
By Raimundo Garrone
“Is there any money in for me?” This was Casemiro Nascimento
Martins (or King Zulu’s) second reaction as he found out,
through telephone, about our desire to interview him. The first
was to kick the ass of anyone in the magazine who might wish
to challenge his majesty. Thank God that was not our intention.
But what kind of a king is this who only speaks about making
money with what is left of his fame and courage? Is he not the
one who traveled to fight some of the country’s greatest
stars?
Mixed
Martial Arts’ black king today is but another ordinary Maranhao
citizen in the same situation as millions of other poor Brazilians.
Now the challenge is to beat the poverty issued by 30 years of
fighting. The man who was once called king lives in a single-bedroom
house at one of the most violent areas of Sao Luis, the capital
of Maranhao, in the company of Maria Graça de Carvalho,
grandson Elieson Costa, a few chickens and ducks, plus three
stray dogs – Dirty Leather, Two-face and Little Cougar.
The rest is old furniture, a few trophies and other rusty stuff.
“He
did not own a thing. It was after we got married that our life
became a little better and nowadays we even have our own house,”
Mrs. Graça says, while she takes advantage of her husband’s
absence to smoke a cigarette and tell us about the ups of being
companion to the man who “will never cease to be a king.”
It
was in the presence of Graça’s flatteries –she
was saying he looked like and elegant 40-year-old– that
Zulu showed up. Directly he came in sweaty, he went back to the
phone conversation, whether there was any chance of him getting
a few bucks for the interview. Then he sat down sternly, his
hair dyed black, and asked the first question, which he would
repeat the whole day.
“Does
Ratinho read the magazine?” referring to a popular television
artist known for making a show out of poor people’s disgrace
and helping them get the assistance they need. “If he finds
out about the condition I’m in, he’ll help me.”
The king’s will is to set up his own academy and get someone
to sponsor his travels to the Brazilian inland towns where he
has fought and, he believes, there are still some worshippers
left. For now, what is left of his majesty is an old album full
of newspaper clippings and a long-expired passport of his Japan
excursion.
There
is no explaining his career’s KO. What’s for sure is
that he maintains his family with only R$500 a month, which he
earns whenever he is able to set up fights at the Maranhao inland.
The result is that, on the stove, the two old pans contain what
could be considered a punch on the stomach: the inexorable menu
of rice and beans with some jerked meat.
He
is only able to change the dish when the owner of the ducks and
chickens Zulu breeds in the backyard bestows one of them upon
the legendary warrior, or when the latter arrives from one of
his excursions with a few bucks to get food at the joint around
the corner. It is amid the backyard animals that Zulu drags a
truck tire at the break of dawn before having oatmeal, during
the training spans.
Then
he goes through the daily routine of walking around the neighborhood
–where he is quite famous– bearing an out-of-phase
Ericsson cell phone. That is how he stays in touch with inland
folks interested in new fights. And, in order to make easier
for people to challenge him, he claims to be 60 years old. It’s
actually 58, completed on June 9th.
“The way I am right now it’s hard to do professional
bouts. So I travel inland challenging amateurs, these young tough-guys
from gyms,” he reveals. But, he stresses, with the proper
nutrition and training he is in condition of giving many competent
fighters a hard time.
“Does
anyone not know me? I’ve traveled across Brazil and hit
a lot of people,” he brags. Fame, however, is not enough
to take him from poverty, diminished by the land he got in the
invasion he lives in.
“It
used to be worse. I lived in a straw house…” he recalls.
Zulu refrains from explaining this “gift” from Luizao,
controversial fellow who probably had some protection from a
couple of politicians, and supposedly promoted an invasion industry
in Sao Luiz, and ended up murdered. Zulu only claims him to have
been his Zulu’s fan.
It
was from another fan, amazonense Luis Alberto Nicolau, that he
obtained the bricks to erect the present house. But living on
favour Doesn’t take him away from Olympia, where he seems
to hide, nourishing a glorious past. He remembers the fights
against Rickson Gracie both in Brasilia DC and in a packed Maracanazinho
(little brother to Maracana stadium, once the biggest football
arena in the world).
“I
only lost because they made up rules disabling me to kick ass
and I got immobilized,” he argues, contradicting reports
of those days that described kicks and punches on the face. Not
even the typical poverty horizon is able to take his mind from
the heavens; however, we rest in doubt about how long this past
will be able to keep him standing. Besides the limited nutrition,
Zulu’s family, like most of the neighbors, depends on Unified
Health System for any sort of treatment.
Suddenly
Zulu is required to assist an old man with an asthma crisis who
was about to die right in front of a desperate family, because
the public hospital two blocks away doesn’t have an ambulance
to pick him up.
“No-one
here’s got health insurance. We count only on God and that
hospital nearby,” he bewails while remembering that his
wife suffers from the same kind of agony. She needs to urgently
remove an ovary myoma, and the king hasn’t yet arranged
a room for her.
No
one knows whether he is going to stop having children after the
nine he has left scattered in the country. His heritage will
go to the only one who lives in Maranhao. Wagner Conceiçao
Martins, “Zuluzinho,” is 6’9’’ tall,
weighs not-so-well-distributed 290lb, and follows Dad’s
footsteps: he is training to cross Brazil challenging anyone
who dares come across him.
The
essence running through his veins is responsible for 35 wins
in 35 MMA fights, three by KO, conquered in Maranhao as well
as other states in Brazilian Northeast and North. Unlike his
father, he divides his time between working as a security guard
in reggae clubs scattered through the city. “That’s
where I make some money,” he clarifies. His father jokes,
“He was raised by his grandmother, is kind of slow, but
he’s got a future.” Zulu himself refuses to work as
a guard. “I’m Zulu, King Zulu, and I won’t be
anyone’s employee or security. I’ll live or die out
of fighting,” he insists. And, just to make sure, he asks
if Ratinho reads the magazine…
Source: Gracie Magazine
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IS
TITO BACK IN THE GAME?
by Jeff Cain
There have been two rumors that have surfaced the past month
about the Huntington Beach Bad Boy. Could Tito Ortiz be close
to signing a deal with the UFC? Is he about to start his own
promotion?
'The
Huntington Beach Bad Boy' has said in many recent interviews
that he planned on starting his own organization. In August,
in an interview with MMAWeekly, Ortiz talked about starting his
own promotion. He said, "It's going to be a big one. It's
going to be here in States, and Las Vegas is the first place
we're looking to make it happen."
Over
the last several months Tito has been working to make it a reality.
He hinted about the news on the Underground Forum Friday by starting
a thread titled, "This is big!" It simply read, "The
W.F.A. Stay Tuned!" Some fighters have told MMAWeekly that
he is reportedly finalizing the acquisition of the World Fighting
Alliance (WFA), John Lewis' former Las Vegas based fight promotion.
The details of the transfer of ownership are still unknown, but
it appears that John Lewis is willing to part with his portion
of the company.
The
WFA is a sanctioned event in the state of Nevada. It's a reputable
promotion who've always put on good shows and treated the fighters
well. MMAWeekly's own Frank Trigg is a former WFA welterweight
champion. They've had numerous top fighters compete in their
organization. Just to name a few: Rich Franklin, Josh Thomson,
Dennis Hallman, Mike Van Arsdale, Kimo Leopoldo, Alex Stiebling,
Vitor Ribeiro, 'Tiki' Ghosen, Ronald Jhun, and Marvin Eastman. If and when the deal is
finalized there would be nothing in the way of the WFA holding
events as soon as they can put the cards together and secure
a venue.
Tito
Ortiz could soon be a promoter, but what about Tito Ortiz the
fighter? 'The Huntington Beach Bad Boy' was on Live Audio Wrestling
last week where Ortiz revealed that he and UFC match maker Joe
Silva are in negotiations for his return to the octagon. Sources
have told MMAWeekly that part of the deal Tito was offered was
a fight with 'The Ultimate Fighter' season one light heavyweight
winner Forrest Griffin for early next year, possibly April.
Tito
Ortiz and Forrest Griffin have a bit of history that began when
Dana White said on MMAWeekly SoundOff Radio, "I can tell
you right now that Stephan Bonnar and Forrest Griffin.....more
people know who they are right now than know who Tito Ortiz is.
They were a part of a show that ten million people were watching
at one point." Ortiz responded by commenting online that
his "nuts" were more popular than Forrest Griffin.
Ortiz
would later say about 'The Ultimate Fighter' participants, "I
don't see them as really that good of fighters to me." He
even went so far as to refer to them as "cronies."
There's definitely a storyline for that fight to be built around,
but will Ortiz actually be back in the UFC?
Ortiz
recently turned down a six fight deal with Pride that was rumored
to be for $125,000 to show and another $125,000 winning bonus.
He told Live Audio Wrestling his reasons for declining the offer
was, "It just didn't interest me that much. Six fights with
them seemed like too long of a time for me. This sport is growing
so quick that you just never know what the next step is going
to be. I will fight in the States though man."
Tito's
always maintained that he'll fight again, and he made it clear
that he wants to fight in the United States. The question now
is, will it be in the UFC or the WFA?
Source: MMA Weekly
|
Bustamante:
"I hope Henderson comes for a clean fight this time”
Fighter talks about his career and the upcoming duel against
Dan Henderson
by Pablo Lima
I usually compare a great athlete to a fine dish, because both
depend on a proper combination of ingredients to succeed. And
even so one is never quite sure whether it’ll turn out to
be good. And since we’re talking adequate preparation, I
recall two moments that help me in learning to be a mixed martial
artist.
The
first of them was against Quinton Jackson, in the 2003 Pride
Grand Prix. That was insane; I had no fighting condition, but
had to do it to honour the academy’s promise. The one supposed
to fight was Arona, but he had broken his foot the day before
and, since I had closed a good deal with the Japanese, I chose
to replace him, so I walked into the ring. I started off well
in the fight but in the last two rounds I felt very tired, didn’t
do as well as I could have and in the end lost by decision. The
techniques I gained in years of Jiu-Jitsu made it possible for
me to take the combat all the way to the end.
A
similar case occurred against Nakamura, also in Pride. The villain
this time was overtraining. Three weeks before the fight I was
physically and technically great, but the wear caused by the
tiresome training routine left me exausted throughout the fight.
I felt the wear the time I needed more stamina. I learned with
it that no athlete gets well prepared overnight.
Another
important aspect: equilibrium between physical activity and rest.
When I began in MMA, my routine was all messed up; at the time
I’d train twice a day, sometimes once, and my work would
put a lot of stress on working out, without correctly combining
activities with resting. Nowadays I rely on the supervision by
physical expert Marcio Pimentel, who adjusts me to MMA regarding
my potentialities and limits. I train about 14 times per week,
in which I practice several fighting styles with a Jiu-Jitsu
basis, and at times it’s mandatory to break the rules and
just rest, for I know my limits and am aware of how important
it is to take a day off once in a while
Another
fundamental point is the psychological factor. Being ready to
face difficult and unexpected is also indispensable to control
one’s nerves during the fight. Against Nakamura I suffered
my third consecutive loss and thus had a hard time renewing my
contracts – which was really tough psychologically. It is
truly important to know how to turn things around, find motivation
to make good fights and win again.
The
psychological side counts a lot too in the ring, because defeats
do arise and some are unfair. After I fought Chuck Liddell I
thought I had won it, but the referee raised his arm. I was clearly
superior throughout the match, he ended it almost fainting; even
his team congratulated me.
The
same happened when I took on Dan Henderson, whom I’m meeting
again in December. He gave me a head strike, the fight was interrupted
and they granted him a knockout win. It is not easy to lose because
of head strike, but we must be prepared for some opponents’
tricks. He gave Gono three of those strikes, had already done
it to Minotouro, and that is something that can really upset
you and make you lose control. I always fight according to the
rules and don’t use any trick to impair my adversary’s
performance. I hope he is willing to make a clean fight this
time, because I am sure we can perform a great show.
At
39 I am at my best thanks to my physical, technical and psychological
preparation, the most important ingredients to get to great victories.
I am glad I’m returning this year, and really motivated
with the conquests that may arise. By the way, a belt is belt,
and it’s always good to get one.
As
to titles, Brazilian Top Team and Chute Boxe, I’m glad we
have this healthy rivalry, with great athletes who, when they
face one another, perform brilliantly. We are still fighting
many times, after all we are the best MMA teams on the planet.
And together, one might add, we’ve got the four best middleweights
in the world: Arona, Wanderlei, Minotouro and Shogun.
Source: Gracie Magazine
|
Quote
of the Day
"Creativity involves breaking out of established patterns
in order to look at things in a different way."
Edward de Bono, Maltese-born Psychologist and Authority on Creative
Thinking
|
X-1
Battlegrounds at the O-Lounge
Is Looking
for Fighters
X-1 Battlegrounds at the O Lounge 2
O Lounge Night Club, Honolulu, Hawaii
November 11, 2005
Tentative Fight Card (Subject To Change)
Derek Thornton (Rock Bottom Fight Team) vs. Deutsch Puu (Freelance)
Vilatonu Fonokalafi (Freelance) vs. Tomas Rosser (Freelance)
Danny Ferriera (Freelance, Streetfighting) vs. Joshua Ferreira
(Freelance, Kickboxing)
Jensen Reese (Freelance, Boxing) vs. Hugh Jones (Freelance, Boxing)
Makoa Hanaike (Team M.M.A.D, Wrestling) vs. Bronson Delima (Bulls
Pen)
Bernard Monderen (Freelance, Kickboxing) vs. Kenneth Mack (Team
Submit)
Chris Procopio (Eastsidaz) vs. Derek Stadler (Bulls Pen)
Thomas Gilbert (Team Mix Breed) vs. Ikaika Jhun (Freelance, Boxing)
If you have not competed in MMA before or have 1 or 2 fights
and are looking to get some experience, please contact Mike Miller
at 689-8867. The next event is scheduled for November 11, 2005
at the O-Lounge Night Club. The O-Lounge is located next to Ala
Moana Shopping Center and is above Venus night club.
Source:
Event Promoter
|
Rumble
World Entertainment Announces
"Just Scrap" Qualifier
November 5th event
will be held in Hilo on the Big Island
HILO, HAWAI'I - Oct 28, 2005 Rumble World Entertainment (RWE),
producers of Rumble on the Rock (ROTR) and ROTR Qualifiers, has
announced the final Qualifier of the series, “Just Scrap!”
The event will be held on November 5th, 2005 at Edith Kanaka'ole
Tennis Stadium in Hilo, Hawaii.
This
is the third Qualifier event scheduled and will determine which
fighters will move forward to participate in the January 20th
main event, Rumble on the Rock 8.
The
Rumble on the Rock Qualifiers offer local fighters the opportunity
to compete in the bigger shows by testing their skills in a professional-level
environment. Rumble World Entertainment utilizes the tournament-style
qualifier events to scout talent for its bigger shows in Honolulu
and throughout Hawai‘i.
Scheduled
fights for "Just Scrap" are:
Wesley
"Cabbage" Correira vs TBA
Ross "Da Boss" Ebanez vs TBA
Jay "Excalibur" Carter vs Jason Dacquell
Kaleo Padilla vs Sean Castro
"Sugar" Shane Nelson vs TBA
Tama vs Scott "Superman" Spencer
Justin "Merc" Mercado vs David Moreno
Albert Manners vs Gavin Mata
Buddy Betts vs Maluhia
Mike Bickers vs Ashton Castro
Ticket
Prices:
• General $25
• Cageside $50
• Military & Students (ID Required) $20
Ticket
Locations:
• Health Haven
• CD Wizard
• Employment Experts
• Big Island Surf
Learn more...
About
Rumble World Entertainment
Rumble World Entertainment (RWE) is a Hawai‘i-based entertainment
company who produces Rumble on the Rock (ROTR), Rumble on the
Rock Qualifiers, and RumbleVision. In less than two years, RWE,
formerly Prodigy Productions, has taken ROTR from a small Hilo-
based show to a globally recognized event broadcast in 90 countries
including Japan Pay-Per-View and U.S. Pay-Per-View. Known as
Hawai‘i’s premiere MMA event, ROTR draws record audiences
of 12,000. RWE hopes to bring their events to California and
Las Vegas in the near future.
Website:
http://www.rumbleontherock.com
Source: Event Promoter
|
Rumble
World Entertainment Announces Next Big Event
Promoters
decide to re-schedule November event and prepare for star-studded
eight-man tournament in January
HONOLULU, HAWAI'I - Oct 27, 2005 Rumble World Entertainment,
the organization behind Hawai‘i’s premiere Mixed Martial
Arts (MMA) event Rumble on the Rock (ROTR), have announced the
rescheduling of their November 19th ROTR event. The next ROTR
event will be held on January 20th at the Neal Blaisdell Center Arena in Honolulu.
According
to J.D. Penn, president of RWE, “Due to unforseen circumstances
we have decided to postpone our event until January 20th. We
look forward to bringing another class-act ROTR event with the
top MMA athletes to Honolulu fans,” he said. “ROTR
8 promises to be a card packed with some of the headlining athletes
in the sport. This tournament will crown our first-ever Welterweight
Grand Prix champion,” he said. Penn went on to comment that
the postponement of the event is due in part to his desire to
bring one of the best tournament cards yet into the ROTR cage.
The
January 20th event, titled "ROTR 8 – World Championships"
will feature an eight-man tournament of Welterweights who will
compete to become the first ROTR Grand Prix champion. This will
be the first tournament-style ROTR event RWE has done and promoters
are confident that the format will be a success. The event will
be held under MMA rules. Confirmed welterweight competitors include
Brazilian sensation Renato “Charuto” Verissimo, former
Shooto champion Jake Shields, Dennis “Superman” Hallman,
and Chris “Lights Out” Lytle.
The
event will also feature world-renown Polynesian entertainment
group Malu Productions, known for their Snoop Dogg video performance
on MTV as well as their performances with the NFL and the Hawai‘i
International Film Festival. Malu Productions highlight the Polynesian
dance styles of Tahiti, Hawaii, New Zealand, Tonga and Samoa.
Learn
more...
About
Rumble World Entertainment
Rumble World Entertainment (RWE) is a Hawai‘i-based entertainment
company who produces Rumble on the Rock (ROTR), Rumble on the
Rock Qualifiers, and RumbleVision. In less than two years, RWE,
formerly Prodigy Productions, has taken ROTR from a small Hilo-
based show to a globally recognized event broadcast in 90 countries
including Japan Pay-Per-View and U.S. Pay-Per-View. Known as
Hawai‘i’s premiere MMA event, ROTR draws record audiences
of 12,000. RWE hopes to bring their events to California and
Las Vegas in the near future.
Website:
http://www.rumbleontherock.com
Source: Event Promoter
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Jorge
Macaco: In state of grace
By Eduardo Ferreira
The
32 old fighter Jorge Patino Macaco did a real show at Show Fight
3, when KO'd Gabriel Vella on last September 21. The combat,
held at Ibirapuera Gymnasium (SP) marked the return of Macaco
to the Ibirapuera after almost ten years since his last fight.
'It was a lot of emotion. When I saw my fans I was so moved.
It was good fighting at home,' said Macaco, who after the win,
challenged Vella's master Ryan Gracie. Read the full interview
below:
When
did start the rivalry between you and Gabriel Vella?
Seven
years ago! When Gabriel Vella fought with pupil at São
Paulo Jiu-Jitsu Championship, at Pacaembú Gymnasium. In
the middle of the fight, there were a mess and Vella beat another
pupil for backwards. When Vella turned sideways, he met me. I
beat him in the face and he fell. He did not handle the pressure
and he left.
According
to Vella, he said he was 16 years old by that time.
He
was overage. If he was 16, he would have suited me. Years later,
I met him in Maresias (city in the São Paulo coast) and
extended my hand for him. I apologized and said he might punch
me in the face to get even. But he didn't want to. Then I asked
if he was okay with that and he said he was fine. But during
his first chance to challenge me, he did it.
Tell
me about your strategy. Did you have a clue it would be so easy?
My
strategy was having Jesus in my heart and Chute Boxe in the vein,
hey!!!! I trained a lot to KO. I was prepared for more than one
hour of fight, but the guy has a chin made of glass. Vella didn't
find me in ring. I didn't suffer a single beat from him. I was
expecting for 15 minutes of fight at least, because he is a good
young fighter, but he only lasted one minute and a half.
Did
you do some special preparation for this event?
I
trained a lot the blow I applied in Vella with Dida. He freed
one jab and I applied a sequence of crossed punch with upper
and I finished the fight. He was training five times per day
for this fight. I trained a lot with the master Rafael Cordeiro,
with Nino Schembri, Daniel Acácio, Murilo Ninja, Evangelista
Cyborg and I passed in the test of assimilation with Wanderlei
Silva.
What
was this assimilation test?
Wanderlei
said to me: 'Macaco, we want to know if you are ready. I will
simulate that I am beating you up and we will see how you can
handle.' I said: 'What is this Wandeco?' (laughing). Wanderlei
wore an 18 ounces glove and kicked my ass. I arrived in São
Paulo hurt with black eyes. Well, I passed in the test.
After
the event, you challenged Ryan... when are we going to see you
guys fighting?
Honestly,
I think that this fight will never happen. He will hide himself
behind the purse. He will say is a Pride champ. But I have fought
28 fights and I am able to fight anyone.
How
it was to come back to a crowded Ibirapuera after almost 10 years
of your last fight in São Paulo?
There
were eight thousand of people. It was a lot of emotion. When
I saw my fans, I was so moved. It is very good fighting at home.
Chute Boxe fans crying out heyyyy!!! It was too good.
Which
are your plans for the future? Do you have a fight soon?
I
am scaled to fight the Jungle Fight against a foreigner on November
26. I might fight at New Year's Eve Pride or at December 2nd's
Cage Rage. I don't know
I've
heard a rumor that you would be leaving Chute Boxe. This is true?
Never!
I do not leave Chute Boxe nor died. I already said to master
Rudimar that he will get tired of me! (laughs). They are all
very nice there. The team does not have traitors and everybody
wants to help each other. Master Rafael and master Rudimar have
a huge heart.
Source:
Tatame
|
Quote
of the Day
"Forget injuries, never forget kindnesses."
Confucius, 551-479 B.C., Chinese Ethical Teacher and Philosopher
|
Icon
Sport 43 Results!
Icon Sport 43: Opposites Attract
Blaisdell Arena, Honolulu, Hawaii
October 28, 2005
By Chris Onzuka - Chris@Onzuka.com
Thanks to Connie for the picture!
Icon Sport put together the most anticipated fight in Hawaii
since Egan Inoue vs. Marcelo Tigre. The local boy and former
Icon Sport Champion, Falaniko Vitale takes on the most dangerous
"Haole" (foreigner) to come to Hawaii since Captain
Cook. The man they call Mayhem, Jason "Mayhem" Miller.
Both fighters are coming off of big losses after reaching the
pinnacle of their careers. After capturing the Icon Sport Middleweight
title with a spectacular knock out of Masanori Suda, it was Vitale
who got KO'd by Robbie Lawler in his first title defense. Miller,
on the other hand, has been on a tear, not losing a fight in
Hawaii in his five appearances. This earned him a shot in the
UFC, where he lost a bloody battle to Georges St. Pierre. Miller
returned to Hawaii to settle a score with Mark Moreno, taking
him out in the first round. Miller's antics have created a love-hate
relationship with the local Hawaii crowd. The fans that hate
him, really hate him, but Miller has become a kind of adopted
son of Hawaii earning the respect of Hawaii fight fans with his
ability to "walk the talk." The winner of this fight
earns a shot at current champ Robbie Lawler. The war began as
both fighters met in the center of the ring and fired off leg
kicks at the same time. From then on, it was a great back and
forth war with Miller taking the edge on the ground and Niko
landing hard punches on their feet. The deciding factor in the
fight was Miller's ability to take Vitale down and kept him there.
After barely surviving a tight rear naked choke by Vitale, Miller
turned the whole fight around by taking Vitale's back and slipping
in a choke of his own to end the match. The respect and admiration
of the fans as seen by the uproar when Miller won the fight showed
that Miller has won over more than his fair share of Hawaii's
fans.
The
under card consisted of great exchanges between fighters just
wanting to throw down. Both fighters tried to assert their dominance
on their feet or scrambled on the ground to gain good position.
Some fighters exchanged punches even when it turned out to be
to their detriment. Makana Albino utilized his reach to bloody
a tough Martinez, who kept coming back for more. Kevin Delima
turned the fight around after being dominated by Chico Cantiberos
and ended up unloading on him forcing the tap out. Harvey Nakamura
and Ryan Lee exchanged blows in what turned out to be a very
close and bloody fight. The Pride trials winners continued their
success with Nick Ring showing his versatility, taking out Mike
Malone, while KJ Noons showed that he is as good as they say,
pounding a tough Harris Sarmiento. Sarmiento tested Noons' chin
as he did not go down without a fight and took a tremendous amount
of hard punches, knees and kicks before succumbing to Noons.
Overall it was a great night of fights with a number of fights
that kept the crowd at the edge of their seats only for everyone
to get out of their seats for the main event.
3
Rounds - 3 Minutes
MMA: 155-lb:
Makana Albino (Grappling Unlimited) def. Bryce Martinez (Bulls
Pen)
Unanimous decision [(30-27), (30-27), (30-27)] after 3 rounds.
3
Rounds - 3 Minutes
MMA: 155-lb:
Ikaika Choy-Fu (Jesus is Lord) def. Lorenzo Moreno (Bulls Pen)
TKO via referee stoppage due to strikes from the mount at 2:55
minutes in Round 3.
3
Rounds - 2 Minutes
Kickboxing: 135lbs
Tyson Nam (Lee's Shaolin Boxing) def. Ed Newalu (808 Fight Factory)
Unanimous decision [(30-27), (30-27), (30-27)] after 3 rounds.
3
Rounds - 3 Minutes
MMA: 205-lb:
Lyle Nicely (Team M.M.A.D.) drew Billy Hall (HMC)
Draw [(29-28), (28-29), (29-29)] after 3 rounds.
3
Rounds - 5 Minutes
MMA: 145-lb:
Kevin DeLima (Bulls Pen) def. Chico Cantiberos (Eastsidaz)
Submission due to punches from the mount at 4:42 minutes in Round
1.
3
Rounds - 3 Minutes
MMA: 155-lb:
Brain Wiehle (Team M.M.A.D.) def. Jose Fernandez (JKD Unlimited)
Unanimous decision [(30-27), (30-27), (30-27)] after 3 rounds.
3
Rounds - 3 Minutes
MMA: 135-lb:
Harvey Nakamura (Grappling Unlimited) def. Ryan Lee (Bulls Pen)
Unanimous decision [(29-28), (29-28), (29-28)] after 3 rounds.
3
Rounds - 2 Minutes
Exhibition: MMA: 175-lb:
Kimo Woelfel (Eastsidaz) def. Aaron Rose (808 Fight Factory)
Unanimous decision [(30-27), (30-27), (30-27)] after 3 rounds.
3
Rounds - 3 Minutes
MMA: 185-lb:
Steve Byrnes (Team MMAD) def. Bob "Bob-O" Ostovich
(Jesus is Lord)
Submission via key lock at 1:08 minutes in Round 2.
3
Rounds - 5 Minutes
MMA: 185-lb:
Nick Ring (AMC Pankration) def. Mike Malone (Eastsidaz)
TKO via referee stoppage due to strikes from the back mount at
3:04 minutes in Round 1.
3
Rounds - 5 Minutes
MMA: 160-lb:
K.J. Noons (City Boxing) def. Harris "Hitman" Sarmiento
(808 Fight Factory)
Submission due to punches at 4:37 minutes in Round 3.
3
Rounds - 5 Minutes
MMA: 185-lb:
Jason "Mayhem" Miller (Cobra Kai) def. Falaniko Vitale
(808 Fight Factory)
Submission via rear naked choke at 2:41 minutes in Round 2.
|
Central
Pacific A.C. In Hilo Diversifies Its Activities
What does this have to do with martial arts in Hawaii? Well,
when gyms are struggling to stay open by charging reasonable
tuition rates, it is an interesting idea, when you have the capability
to find creative ways to pay the rent and keep a gym going for
all your athletes. If you are in Hilo, check it out.
Source: Wally Carvalho
|
Updated
Kickin It Fight Card
WHAT : KICKIN IT 2005 "THE SEQUEL"
KICKBOXING CHAMPIONSHIPS
WHEN : NOVEMBER 25, 2005 (FRIDAY 6PM - 10PM)
WHERE : ILIKAI HOTEL BALLROOM
MAIN EVENT
BOB ATISANOE (3-0) KING OF THE GIANTS TITLE (2-2) ANTHONY BILIANOR
HSD 251 AND OVER GOODSPORT KICKBOXING
DAVID BALICAO (9-1) SEMI-PRO WELTERWEIGHT TITLE (5-0) BRANDON
VISHER
HSD 140-146 GOODSPORT KICKBOXING
NUI WHEELER (3-1) LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE (3-3) TAVIS KAGAWA
TEAM SOLJAH 130 - 134 LAUPAHOEHOE MUAY THAI
VINNIE DELASANTOS (2-1) SUPER WELTERWEIGHT TITLE ((3-2) DEREK
MINN
TEAM SOLJAH 147 - 152 LAUPAHOEHOE MUAY THAI
KAIKA CHOYFOO (2-2) MIDDLEWEIGHT TITLE (2-0) SHANEN KIRA
JESUS IS LORD 153 - 159 TEAM MIXBREED
THIS FIGHT IS SURE TO BE ONE OF THE NIGHTS MOST EXCITING FIGHTS
DUE TO THE FACT THAT CHOYFOO IS A FIGHTER WITH QUICK POWERFUL
HANDS. HIS OPPONENT KIRA IS THE OPPOSITE WITH THE FAST DEVASTATING
KICKS. CHOYFOO IS A SUPERBRAWL VETERAN WHO HAS FOUGHT A LOT OF
THE BEST KICKIN IT FIGHTERS FROM RODRIGUES TO MORENO. KIRA HAS
MADE HIS MARK BY STOPPING HIS FIRST OPPONENT AND DESTROYING HIS
LAST OPPONENT WITH HIS VICIOUS LEG KICKS. THIS FIGHT WILL BE
HANDS VS LEGS.
DALE KAMAI (2-1) LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE (2-0) NICK TIQUI
TEAM SOLJAH 167 - 174 ANIMAL HOUSE
JUSTIN DANO (3-1) CRUISERWEIGHT TITLE (2-0) ALAN ULIT
HSD 175 - 183 ANIMAL HOUSE
TEENAGER CHAMPIONSHIPS
BEN RODRIGUES (4-1) SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT JR. TITLE (2-0) LORENZO
MORENO
HSD 158 -165 BULLSPEN
THIS FIGHT IS ANOTHER PROMISING MATCH UP. BEN WHO IS 17 WILL
FACE 19 YRS OLD LORENZO WHO HAD AN OUTSTANDING WIN AGAINST CHOYFOO.
LORENZO HAS KNOCKED OUT EVERYONE THAT HE HAS MET AND MADE HIS
WORK SHORT AND QUICK WHEN HE STEPS INTO HIS OFFICE. BEN WILL
DEFINITELY HAVE HIS HANDS FULL ON NOVEMBER 25TH.
SHAISON LAUPOLA ((3-0) SUPER WELTERWEIGHT JR. TITLE (2-1) TIM
LAPITAN
JESUS IS LORD 147-152 BULLSPEN
RED DAVIS (2-1) SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT JR. TITLE (1-2) EDMUND LI
ANIMAL HOUSE 135-139 HMC
JUSTIN PIAMONTE (2-1) FEATHERWEIGHT JR. TITLE (1-2) DARRYL LABRADOR
ANIMAL HOUSE 120 - 124 HSD
KIDS CHAMPIONSHIPS
SAGE YOSHIDA (2-1) 11 -13 YRS OLD BANTAMWEIGHT TITLE (1-0) FRED
WAGNER
HMC 110 - 114 HSD
KONA MEYERS 8 YRS. OLD 55# TITLE TBA
HSD HMC
KAI KAMAKA (1-1) 10 YRS. OLD 65# TITLE (2-0) JUSTLY LAQHION
808 FIGHT FACTORY HMC
MICAH ABCEDE 9 YRS. OLD 70# TITLE KYLIE ROMERO
EWA BEACH FIGHT CLUB HMC
MICAH IS A FIGHTER WITH TREMENDOUS HEART. KYLIE IS AN AGRESSIVE
FIGHTER WHO WONT STOP TILL HE HEARS THE BELL RING. MICAH'S HEART
WILL BE PUT TO THE TEST ONCE AGAIN WHEN HE FACES THE NON STOPING
BULL RUSHING KYLIE ROMERO. KYLIE PROVED TO BE A CONTENDER WHEN
HE EXHIBITIONED THE 2004 7 YRS OLD 55# KICKIN IT CHAMPION IN
A FIGHT A FEW MONTHS AGO AND GAVE DAHWEN BRIGHT A FIGHT HE DIDNT
EXPECT. BUT MICAH ALSO PROVED TO BE A CONTENDER WHEN HE STOOD
AND TRIED TO TRADE WITH KYLIE'S TEAMMATE JUSTLY LAQHION IN A
PREVIOUS FIGHT. WILL HEART BE ENOUGH TO DENY AGRESSIVENESS A
CHAMPIONSHIP BELT? FIND OUT.
ROBBIE OSTAVICH (2-0) 12 YRS. OLD ATOMWEIGHT TITLE (0-0) WAYNE
SMITH
JESUS IS LORD 98 - 103 ANIMAL HOUSE
JACELYN 12 YRS. OLD GIRLS ATOMWEIGHT TITLE JACELYN KIM
EWA BEACH FIGHT CLUB 98 - 103 GOODSPORT KICKBOXING
DAHWEN BRIGHT 8 YRS OLD 60# TITLE JESUS SANTOS
HSD HMC
ALL PARTICIPANTS AND MATCHES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE
Source: Derrick Bright
|
"Dynamite":
Royce Fights on New Year's Eve
by Stephen Martinez
TOKYO, Oct. 27 — Mixed martial arts legend Royce Gracie
will face Japanese judo prodigy Yoshihiro Akiyama on the New
Year's Eve K-1 "Dynamite" card scheduled for the Osaka
Dome, K-1 officially announced Thursday.
Gracie
has been inactive since December 2004's K-1 "Dynamite,"
where he submitted Sumo Yokozuna Akebono in just over two minutes.
Akiyama, meanwhile, is 2-1 this year with submission victories
in K-1 HERO's and K-1 MAX.
Gracie-Akiyama
is the second official match-up for "Dynamite," which
goes head-to-head against PRIDE and other popular Japanese programming
in one of the biggest ratings nights of the year for Japanese
Television.
This
fight joins the HERO's Middleweight Grand Prix finals between
Kid Yamamoto and Genki Sudo, Other fighters expected to participate
on the card but do not yet have opponents include Bob Sapp, Jerome
Le Banner, Peter Aerts, Hideo Tokoro, and Korean giant Choi Hong-Man.
Source:
Sherdog
|
Quote
of the Day
"If
an idea's worth having once, it's worth having twice."
Tom Stoppard, British Dramatist and Screenwriter
|
Icon
Sport 43 Today!
Icon Sport: Opposites Attract
Friday, October 28, 2005
Blaisdell Arena
Fight
Card
185-lb: Falaniko Vitale (20-4, 808 Fight Factory)
vs.
Jason "Mayhem" Miller (13-4, Team Punishment)
170-lb: K.J. Noons (3-1, City Boxing) vs. Harris "Hitman"
Sarmiento (26-10, 808 Fight Factory)
185-lb: Nick Ring (4-0, AMC Pankration) vs. Mike Malone (1-3,
Eastsidaz)
185-lb: Steve Byrnes (3-0, Team MMAD) vs. Bob "Bob-O"
Ostovich (3-6, Jesus is Lord)
135-lb: Harvey Nakamura (Grappling Unlimited) vs. Ryan Lee (1-0,
Bulls Pen)
155-lb: Brain Wiehle (0-0, Team M.M.A.D.) vs. Jose Fernandez
(1-0, JKD Unlimited)
155-lb: Makana Albino (0-0, Grappling Unlimited) vs. Bryce Martinez
(1-0, Bulls Pen)
205-lb: Lyle Nicely (0-0, Team M.M.A.D.) vs. Billy Hall (0-0,
HMC)
145-lb: Chico Cantiberos (2-0, Eastsidaz) vs. Kevin DeLima (1-2,
Bulls Pen)
170-lb: Kimo Woelfel (1-2, Eastsidaz) vs. Aaron Rose (1-1, 808
Fight Factory) (Exhibition Match)
155-lb: Ikaika Choy-Fu (0-0, Jesus is Lord) vs. Lorenzo Moreno
(0-0, Bulls Pen)
|
Karl
James Noons
Background
Raised in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Noons started in martial arts
at the age of 5 years old with Grand Master Ed Parker’s
Kenpo Karate in Kona. He was the first Ed Parker student in the
State of Hawaii to earn a junior black belt at the age of 11.
Before the age of 13 he had won numerous tournaments nationwide
in both Kumite (contact fighting) and Kata (forms). At the age
of 10, KJ started boxing with Golden Gloves. At the age of 12,
he started kickboxing with Rudy Valentinos gym in Hawaii, boxing
and competing full contact.
At age 15, KJ then started to train in Muay Thai kickboxing,
and at age 17, fought for the ISKA Super Middleweight International
belt and won. In 2001 he was invited to China to represent the
United States in US vs. China, San Shou rules. Since then KJ
has won US Open International Middleweight Championship, and
Art of War Middleweight Championship.
Shortly after making it to the semi finals 2004 Olympic trial,
Noons turned pro in boxing. He also has competed in professional
Mixed Martial Arts bouts, and in 2005 was selected as the best
striker, and one of winners for the Pride Fighting Championship
Auditions (along with teammate Tyrone Glover).
Most recently in boxing, KJ Noons defeated Damon Franklin with
a devastating knock out punch in the third round. The fight was
held September 22 at the Henry Fonda Theater in Hollywood.
Source: Triple H in the SDC
|
BJ
Penn visits
TT-Jiu-Jitsu in London
Steve "Sugarpop" DaSilva, Manxinha & BJ
Sugarpop is a close friend of the Onzuka brothers. It is good
to see that he is helping spread BJJ in the UK!
Last week, TT-UK athletes received a very special guest in their
academy, in London. Due to Bushido Europe, which was held in
Holland in October 9, BJ Penn showed up in there to train with
his first teacher, the Nova União black belt Sugapop.
"He was in the neighborhood and he heard about an academy
called TT-UK. He knows (Fernando) Terere and decided to visit
us. BJ is such a great guy and he rolled with me and other pupils
of mine. He also brought his brother and other pupil," celebrated
Luiz Manxinha Ribeiro, the leader of TT Jiu-Jitsu in England.
If you want to do the same as BJ and visit TT-UK, take a look
at www.tt-ukjiujitsuteam.co.uk for more information.
Source:
Tatame
|
UFC
55: Fury Hawaii Airing Today!
Ultimate Fighting Championship 55: Fury
Fighters battle one another with mixed martial arts in the Octagon.
From Uncasville, Conn.
10/28/2005
2:00PM
Channel: 701 IN1
|
Conflicting
Parisyan Reports
BREAKING
NEWS: RIGGS STEPS IN TO FIGHT HUGHES!
by Ryan Bennett
MMAWeekly.com
has learned that Joe "Diesel" Riggs will now step in
to face Matt Hughes on just three weeks notice for the UFC Welterweight
Championship. Karo Parisyan, who talked to MMAWeekly Radio just
days ago told MMAWeekly.com "My injury is just getting worse
and worse. I wanted to give the UFC as much time as possible,
but it's not getting any better."
That
means the Diesel, who stepped and looked very good in his initial
fight at 170 vs Chris Lytle will step up to fight Hughes. "I'm
honored to get a title show against Hughes.." Riggs told
MMAWeekly.com. "I was already getting ready to fight anyway,
I'm always in good shape, I will be ready."
Source:
MMA Weekly
PARISYAN
INJURY
A
strained muscle won't keep Karo Parisyan announced that he recently
strained a muscle in training, but will still be facing Matt
Hughes on the UFC 56 card on November 19th.
Source:
Fight Sport
|
Ryan
Gracie Hospitalized with Gun Shot Wound
Renzo, Ryan, Royler, Robin
Ryan Gracie has been hospitalized and required a blood tranfusion
after suffering from a gun shot wound. Acoording to his father,
Robson, "Ryan accidently shot himself when handling a firearm.
The bullet went into his femur and caused a lot of bleeding.
In another 10 minutes he would have died if he hadn't gotten
to the hospital. The worse is over and he should recover."
Source:
Gracie Fighter
|
AFP
TOP TEN FOR THE MONTH OF OCTOBER
HEAVYWEIGHT
1.) Fedor Emelianenko Russia
2.) Rodrigo 'Minotauro' Nogueira Brazil
3.) Mirko 'Cro Cop' Filipovic Croatia
4.) Sergei Kharitonov Russia
5.) Fabricio Werdum Brazil
6.) Andrei Arlovski Belarus
7.) Frank Mir USA
8.) Pedro Rizzo Brazil
9.) Tim Sylvia USA
10.) Alexander Emelianenko Russia
LIGHT
HEAVYWEIGHT
1.) Mauricio 'Shogun' Rua Brazil
2.) Ricardo Arona Brazil
3.) Vanderlei Silva Brazil
4.) Quinton 'Rampage' Jackson USA
5.) Chuck Liddell USA
6.) Randy Couture USA
7.) Rogerio 'Minotoro' Nogueira Brazil
8.) Alistair Overeem Holland
9.) Renato 'Babalu' Sobral Brazil
10.) Vitor Belfort Brazil
MIDDLEWEIGHT
1.) Dan Henderson USA
2.) Murilo Bustamante Brazil
3.) Kazushi Sakuraba Japan
4.) Rich Franklin USA
5.) Paulo Filho Brazil
6.) Yuki Kondo Japan
7.) Anderson Silva Brazil
8.) Matt Lindland USA
9.) David Loiseau Canada
10.) Evan Tanner USA
WELTERWEIGHT
1.) B.J.
Penn USA
2.) Matt Hughes USA
3.) Georges St-Pierre Canada
4.) Frank Trigg USA
5.) Renato
'Charuto' Verissimo Brazil
6.) Antonio Schembri Brazil
7.) Daniel Acacio Brazil
8.) Sean Sherk USA
9.) Crosley Gracie Brazil
10.) Karo Parisyan USA
LIGHTWEIGHT
1.) Hayato Sakurai Japan
2.) Takanori Gomi Japan
3.) Vitor 'Shaolin' Ribeiro Brazil
4.) Joachim Hansen Norway
5.) Tatsuya Kawajiri Japan
6.) Yves Edwards USA
7.) Genki Sudo Japan
8.) Kaoru Uno Japan
9.) Koutetsu Boku Japan
10.) Luis Azeredo Brazil
FEATHERWEIGHT
1.) Jens Pulver USA
2.) Gilbert Melendez USA
3.) Norifumi 'Kid' Yamamoto Japan
4.) Hideo Tokoro Japan
5.) Alexandre 'Pequeno' Nogueira Brazil
6.) Joao Roque Brazil
7.) Ivan Menjivar El Salvador
8.) Rumina Sato Japan
9.) Hiroyuki Takaya Japan
10.) Jeff Curran USA
AFP
fighter rankings can be viewed at AFP TOP 10
Source:
Fight Sport
|
Quote
of the Day
"The mode by which the inevitable comes to pass is effort."
Oliver Wendell Holmes, 1809-1894, American Author and Poet |
Icon
Sport Weigh Ins Today!
Icon Sport, the new face of Super Brawl, will be holding the
official weigh ins
today at 4:00 pm at 24 Hour Fitness Kapiolani. Come down to meet your favorite fighters!
Icon
Sport: Opposites Attract
Friday, October 28, 2005
Blaisdell Arena
Fight
Card
185-lb: Falaniko Vitale (20-4, 808 Fight Factory)
vs.
Jason "Mayhem" Miller (13-4, Team Punishment)
170-lb: K.J. Noons (3-1, City Boxing) vs. Harris "Hitman"
Sarmiento (26-10, 808 Fight Factory)
185-lb: Nick Ring (4-0, AMC Pankration) vs. Mike Malone (1-3,
Eastsidaz)
185-lb: Steve Byrnes (3-0, Team MMAD) vs. Bob "Bob-O"
Ostovich (3-6, Jesus is Lord)
135-lb: Harvey Nakamura (Grappling Unlimited) vs. Ryan Lee (1-0,
Bulls Pen)
155-lb: Brain Wiehle (0-0, Team M.M.A.D.) vs. Jose Fernandez
(1-0, JKD Unlimited)
155-lb: Makana Albino (0-0, Grappling Unlimited) vs. Bryce Martinez
(1-0, Bulls Pen)
205-lb: Lyle Nicely (0-0, Team M.M.A.D.) vs. Billy Hall (0-0,
HMC)
145-lb: Chico Cantiberos (2-0, Eastsidaz) vs. Kevin DeLima (1-2,
Bulls Pen)
170-lb: Kimo Woelfel (1-2, Eastsidaz) vs. Aaron Rose (1-1, 808
Fight Factory) (Exhibition Match)
155-lb: Ikaika Choy-Fu (0-0, Jesus is Lord) vs. Lorenzo Moreno
(0-0, Bulls Pen)
|
"The
Quest For Champions II"
Tournament 2005
Featuring:
Sport-jujitsu--Sport-pankration--Continuous Sparring--Novice(Jr./Adult)
division Grappling
When:
Sunday, November 20, 2005
*Action starts at 10:00am*
Where:
Hawaiian Mission Academy Gymnasium
1438 Pensacola Street
For more information Please contact Kempo Unlimited Hawaii
778-3601 or email kunltd@hotmail.com
Mahalo, Tommy Lam |
Icon
Sport/Fighter's Corner Offer!
 |
Tuesday
Night Fights at the Plaza Returns with a Double Header!
After a successful inaugural event, Tuesday Night Fights returns
for two events in one month! November will be a busy month for
fight fans as Toughman Hawaii hosts its popular event two weeks
apart from each other. The events will be held at the Academic
& Athletic Training Center.
Tuesday, November 15, 2005
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Visit Central Pacific A.C.'s Academic and Athletic Training Center
for tickets.
More
details including the fight card will be coming soon!
Source:
Event Promoter
|
Quote
of the Day
"The mode by which the inevitable comes to pass is effort."
Oliver Wendell Holmes, 1809-1894, American Author and Poet |
X-1
Is Still on Pay-Per View
Check
it out on digital cable
Channel
221 On Demand
See
the Dan Severn-Shannon Ritch fight yourself and decide if it
was legitimate or not. See UFC veterans Ricco Rodrigues, Jeff
Monson, and Chris Brennan along with some of Hawaii’s best
fighters such as, Harris Sarmiento, Kaleo Kwan, Sidney Silva
and Mark Moreno fight in Hawaii’s newest MMA event.
Source:
Event Promoter
|
|
X-1
Battlegrounds at the O-Lounge Is
Looking for Fighters
If
you have not competed in MMA before or have 1 or 2 fights and
are looking to get some experience, please contact Mike Miller
at 689-8867. The next event is scheduled for November 11, 2005
at the O-Lounge Night Club. The O-Lounge is located next to Ala
Moana Shopping Center and is above Venus night club.
Source:
Event Promoter |
NEWTON
TALKS FUTURE AT FIGHT NETWORK PARTY
The
Fight Network Premier Party : Fighters and Fans Celebrate The
Debut Of The Most Action Packed Station On Television
In
Toronto on Friday night, a mix of both media, fans and fighters
gathered to welcome the Fight Network to television and with
the turnout the party garnered, it can only be described as a
huge success.
The
2,000 fans were treated to a muay thai kickboxing bout, a pro
boxing match, a mixed martial arts demonstration (as MMA is still
not allowed in Ontario), and two wrestling matches featuring
the stars of TNA.
While
a party is still a party, there was much news to come out of
the star studded event. Former UFC welterweight champion and
fan favorite, Carlos “The Ronin” Newton made an appearance
and talked with MMAWeekly about his immediate future which for
fans of MMA, unfortunately doesn’t include fighting. “My
focus right now is school,” said Newton. “I was splitting
too much time between the fight game and school, and right now
my focus is on school. I have two years left to get my degree
and that’s what I’m going to focus on.”
The
biggest star to appear, judging by the masses of fans that flocked
around him all night, was current UFC Light Heavyweight champion,
Chuck “The Iceman” Liddell. The California native could
barely take three or four steps without being stopped by someone
asking for an autograph or a picture.
“The
people here in Toronto are great, they love the sport of MMA”
Liddell told MMAWeekly. When asked if he was fighting Randy Couture
in February, Liddell smiled and said, “Just wait and see…it
would be a lot of fun to throw down one more time with him.”
Also
in attendance was former UFC and Pride veteran and current K-1
star, Gary “Big Daddy” Goodridge. He commented that
he was looking forward to fighting again soon, but wasn’t
sure when or where it would be.
Top
welterweight fighter and MMAWeekly radio co-host, Frank Trigg
was on hand and was walking just fine after his ankle surgery
and said everything is healing very well. It has been rumored
that both Jungle Fight and Rumble on the Rock are hot on the
heels of Trigg to bring him to their respective promotions. One
of the oddities seen backstage at the event was seeing the often
outspoken Trigg talking with pro wrestling icons, Jimmy “Mouth
of the South” Hart and current TNA champion, Jeff Jarrett.
“It
was cool talking with those guys about what they do and what
they go through day in and day out,” Trigg commented. “Jimmy
and Jarrett are both really good people who have put a ton of
years into their sports entertainment and that I respect.”
When
asked if Trigg had been contacted by TNA about a possible future
in pro wrestling, the former WFA champion said, “Is this
where I’m supposed to say no comment? You never know when
or where you will see me next.”
MMAWeekly’s
own Ryan Bennett was the MC for the event along with Live Audio
Wrestling’s, Dan Lavranski. Bennett seemed impressed with
the crowd and with the Fight Network’s dedication to showing
the best in mixed martial arts, boxing and wrestling.
“It’s
pretty amazing to see the launch of the first 24 hour fight network
launched in North America,” Bennett said. “ This is
what MMA fans have dreamt about and it’s nice to see that
the network has been launched in Canada for a month now. I wish
the American fans could see this channel, because it would blow
their minds how good the programming and content is of this network.
Last night I watched the International Vale Tudo matches from
Brazil featuring a Goodridge fight I've never seen before, then
Chuck vs Pele was awesome, then Pride showed Anderson Silva vs
Alex Steibling in a fight I heard about, but had never seen,
did I mention K-1 and Rumble on the Rock later that night?”
Other
fighters and wrestlers in attendance included former boxing champion
and hall of famer, Larry Holmes, pro wrestlers Rhino, Sabu and
Samoa Joe from the TNA organization, and Canada’s own wrestling
legend, Bret “The Hitman” Hart.
The
club was packed all night with fans getting a chance to see what
the Fight Network is all about and this is just the beginning.
Hopefully, the United States will get a taste of the 24 hour
station devoted to the sports we love to watch. Until then, the
neighbors to the north will enjoy the excellent programming put
on by the Fight Network, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Source: MMA Weekly |
Quote
of the Day
"The mind has exactly the same power as the hands; not merely
to grasp the world, but to change it."
Colin Wilson, English Author
|
Auto
Body Work?
is anyone in out there in Onzuka.com land that does auto body
work to fix dent and re-paints cars? A friend of ours is looking
for someone. Please email us if you do that or know someone that
does that is reasonable.
Thanks!
|
TRAIN
WITH CHARUTO!
Nova Uniao black belt Renato "Charuto" Verrisimo isnow
offering private lessons at his home in Kaimuki. Charuto is a
very technical instructor as well as aUFC, Rumble on the Rock,
and Abu Dhabi veteran.
For more info email renatoverissimojj@yahoo.com.
Source: Fokai
|
Icon
Sport This Friday!
Niko vs. Mayhem
Just
a friendly reminder...
Press Conference
Eastside Grill
2:00 PM Wednesday!
The Icon Sport "Niko versus Mayhem" Press Conference
is 2 p.m. this Wednesday at Eastside Grill. Eastside Grill is
located in Pucks Alley on University Avenue. Parking is available
in the Pucks Alley garage & lot.
All Reporters: As you may know, we are no longer known as Super
Brawl. As of our last event, we have changed our name to Icon
Sport. We are hearing reports from the Blaisdell that some fans/ticket-buyers
are confused. If possible, please help us spread the word that
Icon Sport is "the new face of Super Brawl."
Also, tickets are flying out the door for this show. Looks like
we're headed towards a sell-out (knock on wood). Please encourage fans
to get their tickets early this week. The Blaisdell is going to be a mad-house
come Friday night.
Thanks again for all of your support!!! We hope you can all make
it to the event...this is going to be our biggest show ever!
Patrick Freitas
Icon Sport
375-1645
Don't
miss the Icon Sport Preview!
WHO:
Icon Sport, The New Face of Super Brawl
WHAT: Icon Sport: Niko versus Mayhem 30-minute Preview Show
WHEN: *11 p.m. Every Night; Sunday, October 16 – Thursday,
October 27 (no broadcast Oct 20 & 22)
WHERE: K5 The Home Team, KFVE Channel 5, Honolulu
Source:
Icon Sport |
RASHAD
EVANS ARTICLE
The
following article is courtesy of the 'Tonawanda News':
Heart
of a fighter: Niagara-Wheatfield grad trying for spot in Ultimate
Fighting Championship
Aaron Besecker
Thursday, October 20, 2005
Punch
him in the jaw. Kick him in the ribs. Go ahead, he likes it.
That's
the story of Niagara Falls native Rashad Evans, a former local
high school athlete now competing on reality TV for a chance
to be an ultimate fighter.
"I
fell in love with it," said Evans via phone from his home
in Lansing, Mich., about training and fighting in mixed martial
arts.
Evans,
26, is one of 18 contestants competing for a spot as a professional
fighter in the UFC, or Ultimate Fighting Championship. The reality
series "The Ultimate Fighter: Season 2" airs Monday
nights on Spike TV.
Evans
has survived eight episodes of the show, which whittles down
the competition until two men are left and earn the coveted spots
as real, full-time fighters.
The
show's finale airs Nov. 5.
As
a running back and safety for the Niagara-Wheatfield Falcon football
team, wrestler for the school's wrestling team and as Division
I wrestler at Michigan State University, Evans has seen his share
of tough hits, takedowns and tackles.
He
flew to Las Vegas in May after he was called for an interview.
Evans was one of hundreds of entrants who submitted audition
tapes. Producers then taped the show over a six-week period.
At
the tryouts, it was a coach who encouraged Evans to keep pushing
despite a lackluster showing in the evaluations. Rich Franklin
told Evans he believed in him, and that's what kept him going,
Evans said.
And
the relationships he developed with the other contestants grew
stronger as the competition continued.
"There's
no other outlet to turn to except for each other," Evans
said. "You kind of get to the nitty gritty of the person."
For
Evans, the show was another chance to shoot for the stars. Life's
too short to just hope, he said.
“"ust
throw caution to the wind and go after my dreams," he said.
Al
Pogel was one of Evans' football coaches at Niagara-Wheatfield.
He wasn't shocked to learn Evans was picked out of a huge group
of athletes to compete on national television, he said.
"I'm
not surprised at anything Rashad does because he is one of those
young men that I've always been proud of," Pogel said. "The
fact that he went through N-W and then community college and
became a D-I athlete, that's a testament to his heart and his
desire to be successful."
For
Evans' mother, Shirley Ann, seeing her son fighting on television
is like remembering all the guests at her home in Rashad's childhood.
"People
couldn't come to the house without wrestling him," Shirley
Ann said.
But
Shirley Ann still doesn't know how her son did in the end. Rashad
didn't tell her how he fared on the show, as he can't talk about
the show's outcome. Will he be one of the winners of a three-year,
six-figure professional fighting contract?
"I'm
left waiting for the ending just like everybody else," Shirley
Ann said.
Source: Fight Sport
|
Quote
of the Day
"Security is when I'm very much in love with somebody extraordinary
who loves me back."
Shelley Winters, American Actress
|
Randy
Couture Seminar Sold Out!
This is to let everybody know that the Randy Couture seminar
on October 29th and 30th is SOLD OUT. Thanks to everyone who
is supporting the seminar, and thanks to all of you who were
patient enough to put your name on the waiting list. Randy is
excited about teaching this seminar, and I know that he is going
to give us great tools and details to improve our skills.
Thanks also to the Onzukas for their help in getting the word
out.
Aloha! Burton Richardson
|
UFC
ANNOUNCES TUF FINALE: DIEGO VS DIAZ
Press Release
DIEGO SANCHEZ READY TO BATTLE NICK DIAZ
AS MAIN EVENT FOR UFC® AND SPIKE TV’S
THE ULTIMATE FIGHTER™ SEASON 2 FINALE
LIVE FROM LAS VEGAS SATURDAY, NOV. 5
Card
Also Features The Ultimate Fighter Season 1 Star Kenny Florian
vs Four-Time World Muay Thai Champion Kit Cope
Las
Vegas, NV (Oct. 21, 2005) –When the bell rings for Diego
“The Nightmare” Sanchez Saturday, Nov. 5, he vows to
show Nick Diaz that he is a legitimate fighter and that his perfect
15-0 MMA record is as real as it gets. Diaz, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
brown belt training under Cesar Gracie, recently criticized Sanchez
for being a TV star who has never fought any tough opponents.
Sanchez is ready to take the battle against Diaz inside the Octagon™
as the featured main event for UFC® and Spike TV’s The
Ultimate Fighter™ Season 2 Finale live in Las Vegas from
the Joint at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Saturday, Nov.
5, 2005. Doors open at 3:30pm PT and the undercard action starts
at 4:15pm PT.
The
Ultimate Fighter Season 2 Finale will also telecast live nationally
on Spike TV starting at 9:00pm ET/PT.
Sanchez
(15-0) 5’11”/170 lbs., fighting out of Albuquerque,
NM, is a Gaidojutsu black belt who is known for his grappling
and his aggressive style. He fought four extremely tough fighters,
Alex Karalexis, Josh Rafferty, Josh Koscheck, and Kenny Florian,
to become the first-ever middleweight winner of The Ultimate
Fighter. He also submitted dangerous striker Brian Gassaway at
UFC 54 (8/20/05) at 1:56 of the second round.
Diaz
(11-3-0) 6’0”/170 lbs., fighting out of Stockton, CA,
made a big impression in the UFC with a submission win over Jeremy
Jackson and a knockout win over “Ruthless” Robbie Lawler.
He also scored impressive first round TKOs of Drew Fickett and
Pancrase fighter Koji Oishi. With a combination of excellent
Jiu-Jitsu skills and potent striking, Diaz is considered to be
one of the welterweight division’s fastest rising stars.
As
a special attraction, The Ultimate Fighter Season 2 Finale also
includes an exciting matchup between The Ultimate Fighter Season
1 star Kenny “KenFlo” Florian and four-time professional
Muay Thai World Champion Kit “Havoc” Cope.
Florian
(5-2) 5’10”/170 lbs., fighting out of Boston, MA, is
a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt who has won many grappling championships.
He has also shown dangerous striking skills, including elbows,
which he used to score stoppage wins over Chris Leben and Alex
Karalexis in fights during The Ultimate Fighter Season 1.
Cope
(2-2) 6’0”/170 lbs., fighting out of Las Vegas, NV,
is a four-time professional Muay Thai World Champion and a Muay
Thai World Bare Knuckle Champion. Having established himself
as a world class kickboxer, Cope is out to defeat Florian and
prove that he can also be a top level UFC competitor.
The
Ultimate Fighter Season 2 Finale will also feature the fights
between the heavyweight and middleweight finalists of the hit
reality series, currently airing on Spike TV Mondays at 11:00pm
ET/PT. The winners of each weight division will be awarded a
six-figure contract with The Ultimate Fighting Championship®
organization.
More
fighters and bouts, including the middleweight and heavyweight
finalists for The Ultimate Fighter Season 2, will be announced
in the near future.
The
Ultimate Fighting Championship
The Ultimate Fighting Championship® brand is the world’s
leading professional mixed martial arts organization and offers
the premier series of MMA sports events. Owned and operated by
Zuffa, LLC, and headquartered in Las Vegas, Nev., UFC® fight
programs feature six live pay-per-view events annually through
cable and satellite providers. In addition to its U.S. distribution,
UFC fight programs are distributed throughout the world including
broadcast on WOWOW, Inc. in Japan, Globosat in Brazil and Bravo
in the United Kingdom. Zuffa, LLC licenses the distribution of
its fight show DVDs through Studioworks Entertainment, a Ventura
Distribution company. For more information, or current UFC fight
news, visit www.ufc.tv.
Ultimate
Fighting Championship, Ultimate Fighting, UFC, The Ultimate Fighter,
Submission, As Real As It Gets, The Octagon and the eight-sided
cage design are registered trademarks, trademarks, trade dress
or service marks owned exclusively by Zuffa, LLC in the United
States and other jurisdictions. All other marks referenced herein
may be the property of Zuffa, LLC or other respective owners.
Spike
TV, the first network for men, is available in 88 million homes
and is a division of MTV Networks.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
Pride:
historical meeting at the Hotel
The lobby of Pride fighters was the stage of a historical meeting
of Brazilian fighting. Chute Boxe's leader Rudimar Fedrigo met
Rei Zulu and reminded old times. With only 18 years old, Rudimar
saw Zulú fighting in Curitiba and got impressed. "By
that time I only dedicated myself to Muay Thai and I invited
Zulú for a train,' he said. During the train Rudimar got
punched. "That punch made me realize I need other styles
to win". After that I promoted a Vale-Tudo for Rei Zulú
at Círculo Militar and he had no problems. It's a pleasure
to meet him in Japan. We are rooting for Zuluzinho, said Rudimar.
COMPLETE
CARD (subject to change):
Pride
30
Sunday, October 23, 2005
Saitama Super Arena, Saitama - Japan
-
Kazushi Sakuraba vs Ken Shamrock;
- Mirko Cro Cop vs Josh Barnett;
- Murilo Ninja vs Murad Chunkaiev;
- Sentoryu vs Zuluzinho;
- Sergei Kharitonov vs Fabrício Werdum;
- Makoto Takimoto vs Yoon Dong Sik;
- Hiroi Yokoi vs Quinton Jackson.
- James Thompson vs Alexandru Lungu.
Source: Tatame
|
DSE/PRIDE
MOVIE 'NAGURIMONO' DEBUTS IN JAPAN
'Nagurimono', the movie which was produced by DSE/PRIDE, debuted
in Japan this month.
The
movie has recieved decent reviews, and features PRIDE veterans
such as Vanderlei Silva, Kazushi Sakuraba, Don Frye, Yoshihiro
Takayama, and Quinton Jackson, all playing the roles of underground
fighters.
Source: Fight Sport
|
'CRO
COP' RESPONDS TO BARNETT
Mirko 'Cro Cop' Filipovic recently spoke with NOVA TV in Croatia,
and responded to derogatory comments recently made by Josh Barnett.
Here's what Cro Cop had to say:
"This
fight is a new challenge and motivation for me. My life is fighting.
He is a cretin. He is not well brought up and he can't behave
like that to other fighters.
Barnett
is an arrogant idiot and I don't know why is talking such stupidity.
He was talking like this before our first fight, but when he
got into the ring, he was so scared that his eyes were as wide
as saucers. It would be better for him to shut up and to be modest."
-Mirko 'Cro Cop' Filipovic
Source: Fight Sport
|
Quote
of the Day
"Someone's sitting in the shade today because someone planted
a tree a long time ago."
Warren Buffett, American Investment Entrepreneur
|
Updated
Kickin' It Card
WHAT : KICKIN IT 2005 "THE SEQUEL"
KICKBOXING CHAMPIONSHIPS
WHEN : NOVEMBER 25, 2005 (FRIDAY 6PM - 10PM)
WHERE : ILIKAI HOTEL BALLROOM
MAIN EVENT
BOB ATISANOE (3-0) KING OF THE GIANTS TITLE (2-2) ANTHONY BILIANOR
HSD 251 AND OVER GOODSPORT KICKBOXING
DAVID BALICAO (9-1) SEMI-PRO WELTERWEIGHT TITLE (5-0) BRANDON
VISHER
HSD 140-146 GOODSPORT KICKBOXING
NUI WHEELER (3-1) LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE (3-3) TAVIS KAGAWA
TEAM SOLJAH 130 - 134 LAUPAHOEHOE MUAY THAI
WHEELER IS AN EXCITING FIGHTER WHO SUFFERED HIS ONLY LOST FROM
KAGAWA. THE FIRST TIME THESE TWO MET, WHEELER CONTROLLED THE
WHOLE FIRST ROUND. BUT HE BOGGED OUT THE LAST TWO ROUNDS. KAGAWA
WAS THE #1 CONTENDER LAST YEAR WHO FOUGHT AND LOST TO CHAD PAVAO
FOR THE SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT DIVISION. HE WILL HOPE TO GET WHAT
HE WAS DENIED LAST YEAR WHILE WHEELER TRIES TO REPEAT WHAT KAGAWA
FELT LAST YEAR.
VINNIE DELASANTOS (2-1) SUPER WELTERWEIGHT TITLE ((3-2) DEREK
MINN
TEAM SOLJAH 147 - 152 LAUPAHOEHOE MUAY THAI
KAIKA CHOYFOO (2-2) MIDDLEWEIGHT TITLE (2-0) SHANEN KIRA
JESUS IS LORD 153 - 159 TEAM MIXBREED
DALE KAMAI (2-1) LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE (2-0) NICK TIQUI
TEAM SOLJAH 167 - 174 ANIMAL HOUSE
JUSTIN DANO (3-1) CRUISERWEIGHT TITLE (2-0) ALAN ULIT
HSD 175 - 183 ANIMAL HOUSE
TEENAGER CHAMPIONSHIPS
BEN RODRIGUES (4-1) SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT JR. TITLE (2-0) LORENZO
MORENO
HSD 158 -165 BULLSPEN
SHAISON LAUPOLA ((3-0) MIDDLEWEIGHT JR. TITLE (2-1) TIM LAPITAN
JESUS IS LORD 147-152 BULLSPEN
SHAISON IS THE ONLY UNDEFEATED 16 YRS OLD FIGHTER ON THE KICKIN
IT 2005 "THE SEQUEL" CARD. THIS IS ACTUALLY A REDEMPTION
FIGHT FOR TIM. TIM HAS LOST TO SHAISON WHEN THEY MET AT THE DOLE
CANNERY AND WILL BE LOOKING TO REDEEM HIMSELF ON NOV. 25. SHAISON
SCORED A STUNNING KNOCKOUT VICTORY AT HIS LAST FIGHT AGAINST
EDMUND LI. BE EXPECTING TO SEE A DIFFERENT TIM ON FIGHT NIGHT.
WATCH FOR THIS FIGHT, IT WILL DEFINITELY BE ACTION PACKED.
RED DAVIS (2-1) SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT JR. TITLE (1-2) EDMUND LI
ANIMAL HOUSE 135-139 HMC
JUSTIN PIAMONTE (2-1) FEATHERWEIGHT JR. TITLE (1-2) DARRYL LABRADOR
ANIMAL HOUSE 120 - 124 HSD
KIDS CHAMPIONSHIPS
SAGE YOSHIDA (2-1) 11 -12 YRS OLD BANTAMWEIGHT TITLE (1-0) FRED
WAGNER
HMC 110 - 114 HSD
SAGE AND FRED ARE TWO KIDS THAT YOU WOULD WANT TO HAVE AS FRIENDS
IF YOU WERE IN ELEMENTARY. FRED IS A NEWCOMER IN KICKBOXING WHO
WILL STEP HIS GAME UP AGAINST LAST YEARS 10 - 12 YRS OLD 105#
KICKIN IT AND 2005 G-3 CHAMPION WHO IS WELL KNOWN FOR HIS WICKED
SPINNING BACKFIST. FRED WILL HAVE A HEIGHT AND AGE ADVANTAGE
AGAINST SAGE BUT THAT DONT MEAN A THING TO SAGE FOR HE HAS FOUGHT
WITH THIS DISADVANTAGE THROUGHOUT ALL OF HIS FIGHTS. ADVANTAGE
WILL NOT PLAY A BIG PART FOR ANYONE IN THIS FIGHT.
KONA MEYERS 8 YRS. OLD 55# TITLE TBA
HSD HMC
KAI KAMAKA (1-1) 10 YRS. OLD 65# TITLE (2-0) JUSTLY LAQHION
808 FIGHT FACTORY HMC
MICAH ABCEDE 9 YRS. OLD 70# TITLE KYLIE ROMERO
EWA BEACH FIGHT CLUB HMC
ROBBIE OSTAVICH (2-0) 12 YRS. OLD ATOMWEIGHT TITLE (0-0) WAYNE
SMITH
JESUS IS LORD 98 - 103 ANIMAL HOUSE
JACELYN 12 YRS. OLD GIRLS ATOMWEIGHT TITLE JACELYN KIM
EWA BEACH FIGHT CLUB 98 - 103 GOODSPORT KICKBOXING
DAHWEN BRIGHT 8 YRS OLD 60# TITLE JESUS SANTOS
HSD HMC
ALL PARTICIPANTS AND MATCHES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE
Source: Event Promoter
|
BARNETT:
'FIRST FIGHT AGAINST CRO COP WAS A FLUKE'
Josh Barnett recently spoke with the Japanese media regarding
his upcoming fight against Mirko 'Cro Cop' Filipovic. Here's
what Barnett had to say:
"The
last time was a fluke. This time will be different. For me this
isn't a new fight, but the finish to the first. I will show Mirko
what total defeat feels like. Mirko, I hope you're strong and
ready for our fight because I want no excuses and no reasons
why you lost. Get ready!" -Josh Barnett
Source:
Fight Sport
|
Interview
– Murilo "Ninja" Rua
By Takimoto
Takimoto-
How was your preparation for the fight against Murad Chunkaiev
at Pride 30?
Ninja
Rua- I trained a lot. I'm coming of losses and I need this victory
real bad. At the morning part, I trained muay thai with masters
Rudimar Fedrigo and Rafael Cordeiro. I trained a lot of wrestling
with Daniel and Cristopher to improve my takedowns. At the afternoon
I did physical preparation as I never did before. I trained with
professor Gerson "Queixo" and he left me with a lot
of strength, very well physically prepared. I lost 7 kg for this
fight. And, at night, my ground was sharpened by Nino "Elvis"
Schembri's supervision. I thank all the guys that helped me in
this preparation. I know this fight is very important for me.
Takimoto- How was your expectation for this fight?
Ninja
Rua- It is a win or win situation. I want this victory real bad,
for my brother and for my academy. I will give my best. I'm ready
to knock him out or submit him. Whatever happens, I will be ready.
Takimoto- What was your impression of Luiz Azeredo and Daniel
Acacio's fights in the Pride Grand Prix?
Nina
Rua- I thought Luiz's show was real good. He is, for sure, one
of the bests in his weight division. But he fought against Gomi,
the guy to be beaten in this category. He did an excellent fight
with Gomi, but couldn’t win. It was a great fight. Daniel,
on the other hand, was not in his day, he didn't let his game
flow, take the guy down. Nothing did well. But we learn with
defeats. I'm pretty sure that in the next bouts he will win again.
This defeat was learning for him.
Takimoto- A dispute between Chute Boxe and BTT always develops.
Tell us a little bit about this rivalry.
Ninja
Rua- This rivalry is only inside the ring. This feeling is good,
it brings excitement. I think it has to exist; after all, it
is professional.
Takimoto- Who provoked who, just before the fight between your
brother and Ricardo Arona?
Ninja
Rua- I told to my brother: kill this son of a bitch. But I said
it like an incentive to my brother. After all, it was the GP
final. I never tried to offend Arona's mother. It is nonsense.
But Filho took it to the other side and said a lot of bullshits
about myself, Daniel and my team. I want him.
Takimoto- Filho has 10 victories and is undefeated in MMA competitions.
Do you feel capable to win this bout?
Ninja
Rua- Of course. I know that I am a tough fighter. I never give
up, I have heart. You have to KO me or put me to sleep. All my
defeats were against excellent fighters and all were tough battles.
He, on the other hand, always got easy competition. I really
want to face him.
Takimoto- How is it like to train everyday with the champion
Wanderlei Silva?
Ninja
Rua- It is great. He is an unbelievable person, with a lot of
character. Train with hi is hard, because he is very tough. He
has the heaviest hands on the circuit and already proved it facing
the best fighters. He doesn't have to prove nothing to anyone;
everybody has him as a role model.
Takimoto- Pedro Rizzo is considered the best Brazilian heavyweight
striker. How were his trainings at Chute Boxe?
Ninja
Rua- Pedro is a wonderful person. He is an excellent fighter.
He is really the best heavyweight in muay thai and also very
good at wrestling. He passed me a lot of positions, gave a lot
of tips. You are wrong thinking that Pedro is only muay thai.
Takimoto- Being the brother of the best in the year when it comes
to the until 93kg category helps or hinders?
Ninja
Rua- It only helps. I'm glad that he became the best of the year.
I always expect him to win the belt. He is really well, very
strong. He is a complete fighter, good in everything. Nowadays,
is hard to beat him. He is great. Being his brother makes me
happier to train and fight.
Takimoto- I consider the fight between Mauricio "Shogun"
Rua and Rogerio "Minotouro" Nogueira one of the best
of the year. What do you think about this fight?
Ninja
Rua- Very impressive. It was amazing. I thought my brother was
going to KO in the first round. But Minotouro came with a good
boxing, he surprised me. He took a lot of punishment, the same
as my brother. It was a knockdown to each one. It was really
an spectacle. In my opinion, the best fight of all time. It is
what the audience and promoters want and like to see.
Takimoto- Leave a message to the fans.
Ninja
Rua- For the ones who likes me, I'm coming back strong. Support
me. I will do a great fight and obtain another win
Source:
Maxfighting
|
'ZULUZINHO'
READY FOR PRIDE DEBUT
"Zulu" with his son, "Zuluzinho".
'Zuluzinho',
who is the 6'7 (2.00 m) and 341 pounds (155 kg) son of Brazilian
vale tudo legend Zulu', recently spoke to Brazilian magazine
'Tatame' regarding his upcoming PRIDE debut, and his father,
who will be cornering him in his fight. Here's what Zuluzinho
had to say:
"My
father was Rickson Gracie's first opponent in vale tudo. He only
lost to Rickson because they changed the rules ten minutes before
the fight, saying that no strikes would be allowed. He helped
build the Rickson Gracie myth, and many more fighters have made
their careers because of that. Now I'm going to start collecting
interest on that debt in his name. I'm going to prove the value
of the Zulu name, and I'm going to do that together with my father.
Noone will beat me in PRIDE." -"Zuluzinho"
COMPLETE
CARD (subject to change):
Pride
30
Sunday, October 23, 2005
Saitama Super Arena, Saitama - Japan
-
Kazushi Sakuraba vs. Ken Shamrock;
- Mirko Cro Cop Will vs. Josh Barnett;
- Murilo Ninja Will vs. Murad Chunkaiev;
- Sentoryu Will vs. Zuluzinho;
- Sergei Kharitonov vs. Fabrício Werdum;
- Makoto Takimoto vs.Yoon Dong Sik;
- Hiro Yokoi vs. Quinton Jackson.
- James Thompson vs. Alexandru Lungu.
Source:
Tatame
|
WWE
CONTINUES TO DESTROY UFC IN HEAD-TO-HEAD RATINGS
'The Wrestling Observer' reports the ratings for this past Monday
night's head-to-head ratings war between the WWE and the UFC:
WWE:
'Raw': 3.7
UFC: 'Unleashed': 1.0
UFC: 'The Ultimate Fighter': 1.1
Both
UFC shows went up against WWE: 'Raw', but could not manage to
get above the 1.1 mark combined, and came nowhere close to competing
with the WWE's phenomenal 3.7 rating.
Source:
Fight Sport
|
Quote
of the Day
"Do not confuse motion and progress.
A rocking horse keeps moving but does not make any progress."
Alfred A. Montapert, American Author
|
UFC
55: Fury Hawaii Airing Tomorrow Early Morning!
Ultimate Fighting Championship 55: Fury
Fighters battle one another with mixed martial arts in the Octagon.
From Uncasville, Conn.
10/23/2005
2:00AM
Channel: 701 IN1
10/28/2005
2:00PM
Channel: 701 IN1
|
Source: James Tanaka
|
SHIELDS
IN ROTR TOURNAMENT
The camp of Jake Shields announced that he will be participating
in the 'Rumble On The Rock' GP tournament in early December.
Complete
list of fighters rumored to be in the ROTR GP tournament:
Renato
'Charuto' Verissimo
Frank Trigg
Jake Shields
Dennis Hallman
Chris Brennan
Matt Serra
Source:
Fight Sport
|
Marcelo
Tigre Fighting In Brazil
The IX edition of Fight Club Tournament takes place tomorrow,
October 21 at Banni Club academy, in Taguatinga/DF. According
to the organization, seven bouts are on the program of the show,
which will also feature International fighter Marcelo Tigre,
who was the main name of last edition, when submitted Edson Godzilla
with a choke from the back. If you are near from Brasilia that
is a great chance to see the best candango fighters in action.
Tickets available for R$15 and R$20 at the local. For more information,
please call 61- 352-3705.
Source:
Tatame
|
NAMES
IN THE GAME: WEC CHAMP COLE ESCOVEDO
by Ryan
Bennett
He is the WEC champion at 145 pounds. He has stepped up in weight
lately to fight at 155. He finishes all of his fights and most
of the time he can pull out a triangle choke out of anywhere.
If you don't know the name Cole Escovedo yet, you soon will as
he is the latest one to talk with MMAWeekly.com in our Names
in the Game segment.
MMAWeekly:
You dominated the 145-pound division and now you are stepping
up at 155. Why come up in weight?
Cole:
Well, I wouldn't say I've dominated the 145-pound division given
the level and very long list of better more experienced fighters
I’ve yet been against. I haven't stepped up to the 155 division,
it's just that the Poppies fight was demanded, not by me, to
be at 155 almost 160, and my last fight was to find a descent
opponent to warm up for that rematch and Joe’s record is
not bad. He is 0-2 pro, but was like 4-3 or better in amateur
fights and fights are fights whether you get paid or not. So,
no I am not stepping up, it's just unfortunate for me that my
last couple of fights have been there even though I barely made
it up to 150 by weigh-ins. I walk at like 147. I’m a true
145er.
MMAWeekly:
As dominant as you've been in the lower weight, do you feel you
can still be dominant when the fighters at 155 are so much bigger
than you are?
Cole:
Again, I've been lucky, not dominant. I think 10%training and
90% luck in this sport. “The more I train, the luckier I
get." (Rickson Gracie-Choke) I do not wish to try and fight
challenging opponents at 155 till I get more experience and can
consistently walk around above 155, so that I'm not so out weighed
at weigh-ins. But if Ultimate Fighter came a calling then I might
think twice. Hint... hint... Dana.
MMAWeekly:
You are the king of the triangle. I saw the flying triangle out
of you this past weekend. You put it off like it's nothing. How
did you get so proficient at the triangle?
Cole:
I don't know about the king. There are a lot of other fighters
that pull off multiple moves like nothing. I just see my opening
and take it. While they think punch, I think leg over the shoulder.
Now, as far as being proficient, I have great coaches and partners
who expect nothing less; guys like David and Daniel Camarillo
of Camarillo Jiu-Jitsu and A.K.A. and Josh Koscheck, Ted Stobie,
Jason Hannon, T.K., Seo and Greg Asbury who all push me and each
other to make each other better.
MMAWeekly:
Would you rather finish your opponents by KO or Triangle?
Cole:
I would always rather submit, not necessarily triangle, over
KO simply because I’ve broken my hand fighting Boa Quach
when we beat the hell out of each other. So more tapping, less
punching and I keep my medical bills down and my opponents more
likely to have a drink with me at the after party.
MMAWeekly:
Whom do you look up to in the fight game?
Cole:
Guys like Chuck Liddell, who comes back from a loss, changes
what he needs to and wins is a perfect example of evolution in
our sport today. Nick Diaz is a guy who still takes time at shows
to talk to the fans no matter how far he's gone. He remembers
where he started and doesn't forget what it's like to be that
nervous guy, still new to the sport. As cocky as he seems, it's
more confidence of his abilities, I think.
MMAWeekly:
For the fans who haven't seen you, who fights most like you in
UFC or Pride?
Cole:
I wouldn't say I’m like any UFC or PRIDE fighter for two
reasons: 1.) I don't think I’m anywhere near their level,
and 2.) I want to be recognized for my own style and my own personality.
This way I don't become just another name in the masses. I want
to standout. But If I had to pick, I would say PRIDE: Nogueira
because he loves to submit and can at will; UFC: maybe Nick Diaz
cause everyone expects him to submit you and then Bang! He knocks
out Robbie Lawler. I have knocked people out when they expected
me to submit them.
MMAWeekly:
Is there anybody in the UFC or Pride you feel you can beat right
now? Who would it be?
Cole:
In my most honest opinion, no, I don't feel I weigh enough yet
to be even on weight, nor do I feel I have the experience yet
of the level of fighters in those organizations, but hopefully
there will be a true 155 or 145 tournament and then maybe I could
have a chance in the big show.
MMAWeekly:
Who is overrated in the fight game?
Cole:
I wouldn't really say that I think any opponent is truly overrated.
Everyone has their opinions. I think everyone is overrated at
one point or another.
MMAWeekly:
Who is underrated?
Cole:
Again, everyone is underrated at one point or another like Franklin
was for a while until he proved why he shouldn’t be.
MMAWeekly:
Is there one guy out there you would love to fight?
Cole:
I don't go looking for fights; it's just not me. I fight who
they give me. I know how cliché it sounds, but I just
want to build experience against opponents who will up the challenge
every fight so I train and I fight who they tell me. I know eventually
to get the big pay days and get the big show exposure and recognition
I want, I will have to pick fights, but when I am ready to fight
at that level then I will.
MMAWeekly:
Thanks for making time, anybody else you want to thank?
Cole:
Yeah, my team at Pacific Martial Arts in Fresno, California.
(Mike Popp especially.) The guys up at A.K.A., David Camarillo,
Josh Thomson, Mike Swick, and Jon Fitch, especially Bob Cook
a great trainer and corner. My mom brother and daughter and my
girl who all support me and help me anyway they can. And well
I didn’t really have any sponsors this time around except
Sucker Punch Fight Wear and the guys of TAPOUT hooked me up this
time out. And to all who helped and continue to help me train
hard and keep fighting. Thanks for taking the time to interview
me Ryan; I really appreciate the exposure from such a recognizable
name in the sport.
Source:
MMA Weekly
|
Couture
v. Liddell III ???
By Sean McClure
In a recent interview with another MMA media outlet, Randy Couture
confirmed that his rubber match with Chuck Liddell is tentatively
set for the Super Saturday PPV early next year. "Nothing
has been signed yet, but we have both verbally agreed to fight
at the UFC's Super Saturday show to be held in February”,
stated the former UFC heavyweight and light heavyweight champion.
No
word from Liddell’s camp but given Chuck’s past history
of taking on all comers it seems a sure thing that if the UFC
puts the ink to the paper and offers it up then this fight would
be a go. Randy has wanted a rematch ever since he was knocked
out by Chuck at UFC 52 when he made an admitted mistake by letting
his emotions get the better of him and straying from his original
game plan. This fight would decide once and for all who the better
man is since each of their two fights was won in dominating fashion
by the other.
Source:
Maxfighting
|
JAMES
THOMPSON
by Mick Hammond
There
are few MMA fighters in the world quite like 26-year-old James
“The Colossus” Thompson. Standing 6’4” tall
and weighing in around 260lbs of pure muscle, he is indeed a
physical specimen to behold. But as imposing as Thompson is physically,
his fighting style may be more intimidating, as there is no other
way to describe it other than 100% adrenaline fueled aggression.
Hailing
from England, this one time debt collector is now collecting
wins on the biggest stage in the sport, Pride FC. Recently Thompson
took time out of his training schedule to answer some questions
for MMA Weekly about his professional careers and his upcoming
match with Alexandru Lungu at Pride 30.
MMA
Weekly: First off James, this is your third fight in Pride. How
do you feel now that you are a veteran of the organization compared
to when you first came in last year?
James
Thompson: Before the first show my training was irregular; a
chaotic medley of different venues and styles. I didn’t
have access to the sort of ordered training that is required
for such a tough event. I knew after my loss to Aleksander (Emelianenko,
Pride 28) something had to change, so I joined the Trojan Free
Fighters, one of the UK’s top MMA teams, and haven’t
looked back. The support I get from the team coaches and the
other squad members is beyond compare. One of the coaches Tony
Myers said, “James if you are not prepared, then you are
prepared to fail.” This ethos strongly influenced my preparation
for my second appearance and my training became structured but
purposeful under the Trojans guidance. I wanted to win and my
coaches had the knowledge and experience to show me how. My preparation
for this trip has followed this formula, but without the pressures
of the unknown.
MMA
Weekly: You speak about your second appearance, which was your
first win for the company over Henry “Sentoryu” Miller
at Bushido 8. How did it feel to get your first win for the company?
James
Thompson: Speculation was rife about the outcome of this fight,
with some saying Henry would win. As a former high level Sumo
wrestler, Henry had the additional pressure of raised expectation
from his Japanese fans, while I had to overcome the stigma of
my last loss. We therefore both had a lot at stake and much to
prove. I was determined to take my rightful place in the ranks
of regular Pride fighters, so when I won against Henry, I felt
a great sense of accomplishment. I had succeeded where many had
expected me to fail and all the hard work I’d put in had
paid off.
MMA
Weekly: The fight with Miller was the last time American fans
got to see you fight, but just last month you went back to England
and got a win in the Cage Rage organization. How did it feel
to compete there and get a win in front of the hometown crowd?
James
Thompson: I love fighting in England as the sport is growing
and I know I am one of the first generation of profile fighters
to come through. Cage Rage is the leader of the pack when it
comes to MMA events in the UK. Andy (Geer) and Dave (O’Donnell,
Cage Rage Promoters) are good guys and I know they are keen to
support and develop indigenous fighters. They have put a lot
on the line to bring MMA main stream and I am just pleased I
can support them. There are other events like Urban Destruction
that are helping to develop the UK MMA scene, which although
still in its infancy is very much on the up. The fight against
(Andy) Costello, although a stoppage win, was not one of my better
performances. I had not prepared well, as I was recovering from
a broken bone in my hand. I’m not making excuses, but this
did have an adverse affect on my preparation; as a result I wasn’t
able to dispose of him in the way in which I had in mind. Nevertheless
I suppose a win’s a win and that’s what really matters.
MMA
Weekly: You mentioned earlier how joining the Trojan Free Fighters
team has had positive effect on your career lately. With that
in mind how would you say your three-year career has been going
so far?
James
Thompson: When I started MMA I took a few chances. I may not
be the most skilled fighter but I always fight to the best of
my ability and give one hundred and ten percent. I think my career
has accelerated because of this dedication and commitment. My
development was slow until I joined the Trojans, but now it has
picked up in pace and I know I can become a star in Pride. There
simply isn’t anyone in Pride as hungry as me, and I don’t
mean show me a KFC hungry! The Pride team have been very supportive,
particularly Yukino (Kanda, Executive VP of DSE, Pride’s
parent company). They have demonstrated a faith in me and I intend
to deliver.
MMA
Weekly: So what would you say is the biggest difference before
and after joining the Trojans?
James
Thompson: My skills have improved dramatically, but the desire
to win remains unchanged.
MMA
Weekly: You’ve only lost twice so far in your career. Now
that you’ve got your training set, would you like to rematch
those fighters and how do you feel you would do the second time
around?
James
Thompson: My first loss was against Tengiz (Tedoradze), who I
know I would destroy now as my skill level is so much higher.
Aleksander would be a bit more complicated, as he is always evolving
as a fighter, though if we were to meet some time next year I
have every confidence that there would be a much different outcome
from our first meeting.
MMA
Weekly: Aside from your physical attributes, you’re also
known for your intensity heading into a fight. Can you tell us
what goes through your mind when you psyche yourself up?
James
Thompson: There are a number of things going through my mind
at once. I think about all the effort myself and my trainers
have put into my training to get me where I am, and how I can’t
let them down. I imagine my opponent being an obstruction along
my path to success and I visualize them trying to take my future
away from me. This fusion of thoughts energizes me and helps
me focus my aggression on my opponent in preparation for the
match. We can be friends AFTER the fight!
MMA
Weekly: Before we talk about your upcoming fight, let’s
jump out of MMA for a second. In your professional life you’ve
also been a debt collector, are there any interesting or funny
stories you can tell us from those days?
James
Thompson: Yes, I had to get some money of this dodgy geezer who
had ripped off a load of pensioners for tens of thousands of
pounds, one of them aunt. As they had no money my mum asked me
to go around and sort it out for nothing. I went to his house
and the lights were on in the front bedroom. I knocked on the
door and a dominatrix answered! I explained that I was here to
see the house owner as a matter of urgency, calling him by his
first name. She led me in but said I would have to wait a moment
while she told the owner who it was. As she walked towards the
stairs I bolted past her only to see this pale scrawny arsed
individual tied face down in a dog basket. I explained that one
of the people he had ripped off was a relative of mine and that
I didn’t take kindly to it. Whilst I was "growling"
(having a stern word) at him, I noticed the dominatrix trying
to slip out the door. Fearing she would make a bolt for it I
told her to get in the dog basket and stay still. She must have
thought things would take a turn for the worse if she didn’t
do what I said so she scampered into the basket and curled up
next to Mr. Pale Arse. With both in my sight I questioned Pale
Arse further, but as time went on he became increasingly uncooperative.
So the dominatrix, who by this point was becoming irritated by
his intransigence, decided to give him a whack to loosen his
tongue. The whack was full power and makes me wince when I think
about it; it certainly shocked the fraudster. The Dominatrix
then went onto give him a right old slap without me laying a
finger on him. The combination of my growling and her thrashing
seemed to have the desired affect, as the bloke coughed it up
promptly and soon after left town.
MMA
Weekly: Funny stuff James, now let’s talk about your upcoming
fight against Alexandru Lungu at Pride 30. Lungu is a multiple
time Judo and wrestling champion in his native Romania. Can you
tell us anything about your strategy going into this fight?
James
Thompson: It might be better to answer this one after the fight,
as I don’t want to give anything away. What I can say is
that I know Alex is a skilled and aggressive Combat Sombo stylist
who likes to take the fight to you. I think I will have to see
what comes, but one thing is for certain I will go in there with
the intent of making him regret over-eating on goulash!
MMA
Weekly: Speaking of over-eating, every opponent you’ve had
in Pride is bigger than the last. Do you enjoy the challenge
of fighting bigger opponents?
James
Thompson: He’s bigger in stature but my desire to win far
outweighs his. I also believe that skill and game plan play a
big part in your success. If I were to put on another 20kg (44lbs)
it wouldn’t necessarily make me a better fighter and would
perhaps slow me down. In some ways I enjoy the challenge of fighting
someone bigger than me, as it allows me to really pressure test
the new skills I’ve learned.
MMA
Weekly: If you win this fight you’ll take another step up
in the Pride rankings. Is there anyone in particular you would
like to face next?
James
Thompson: It will be two wins. I’d like to fight Mark Coleman
as we were scheduled to fight in Korea, but it didn’t happen.
I also respect him greatly as he was one of the first people
I saw fight MMA, he epitomizes the spirit of a warrior. As a
second choice it would have to be Bob Sapp, as he has a similar
style to me, but is less skilled. It would be a war from the
start. I’d run at him and knock the living daylights out
of him. I would soooooo love to beat him up just for being an
ugly critter, but I doubt he’d risk facing me, as he knows
it would be too hard a fight.
MMA
Weekly: Critter hunting aside, what kind of plans do you have
for yourself for the remainder of the year?
James
Thompson: At the moment I have to take one fight at a time. Pride
have preliminarily penciled me in for the New Years Eve show.
When I get back I will be training intensively for it with one
of the Trojans rising stars Croatian, Zelg Galesic. He is unbelievable
and will blow everyone away when he explodes onto the international
scene with his aggression and dynamism. He comes over for a month
at a time, so I’ll be training pretty much full time with
him in preparation for New Years Eve.
MMA
Weekly: Thank you very much for your time James, is there anything
you’d like to say as we head out?
James
Thompson: I’d like to thank Opaltech who sponsor my team
and who help fund the young fighters. iESPN, Fight DVD and Evolution
fight wear for their supporting me as an individual fighter.
For all the fans of Pride, I promise you one thing and that is
full on action from the moment the bell rings. There really will
be only one man left standing and that’s The Colossus.
Source:
MMA Weekly
|
Quote
of the Day
"You will find as you look back upon your life that the
moments when you have truly lived are the moments when you have
done things in the spirit of love."
Henry Drummond, 1786-1860, British Banker, Politician, Religious
Leader
|
Hawaii
Marial Artists Victorious in Japan
I just
wanted to recognize Tommy
Lam and Kynan Yonamine on their recent victory in Japan. They are also
both my clients. The following information was provided by Satoshi
Kimura who is the SAW (Submission Arts Wrestling)
In Tokyo, Japan, local martial artist Tommy Lam and Kynan Yonamine
representing Team Kempo Unlimited Hawaii were both victorious
in their professional mixed martial arts match at the SAW (Submission
ArtsWrestling) Federation's Global Championships held in Shinjuku,
Japan on October 9, 2005.
Tommy
Lam fought reigning and defending 5 time SAW champion Tomoyuki
Tachi in a stand up battle with both fighters trading solid leg
kicks and crisp hand combinations. The fight later went to the
ground where Tommy secureda Triangle Choke submission that forced
Tachi to tap out at 4:33 of the first round to claim the lightweight
title.
Kynan
Yonamine defeated "Pancrase" veteran and Sambo/Judo
specialist Hajime Ubukata via heel hook submission at 2:30 of
the first round to claim the light heavyweight title.
The
Submission Arts Wrestling Federation Global Championships held
inTokyo, Japan, is an annual event that attracts some of the
world's best and most prominent fighters. The organization is
headed by one of Japan's most prestigious submission grappling
instructor Hidetaka Aso. Aso sensei is best known for his books
the Submission Bible, The Last Submission, The Joint Lock Encyclopedia
and numerous instructional videos.
Results:
T.Lam (Hawaii) defeats T. Tachi (Japan) via submission round
1
K. Yonamine (Hawaii) defeats H. Ubukata (Japan) via submission
round 1
J. Ohishi (Japan) defeats S. Terry (Australia) via submission
round 1
H. Hatachiya (Japan) defeats D. Higgs (Australia) via decision
round 2
S. Wachi (Japan) defeats S. Bilinski (Australia) via decision
round 2
B. Livingston (Australia) defeats N. Kawamura (Japan) via TKO
round 1
Hugh Rogers (Canada) defeats R. Takaya (Japan) via submission
round 1
M. Takahasi (Japan) defeats M. Yamamoto (Japan) via decision
round 2
Source: Satoshi Kimura, Thanks to Liann C.
|
BJ
PENN INTERVIEW
B.J. Penn
B.J.
Penn was recently interviewed by German MMA website GroundAndPound.de.
Here's what Penn had to say (translation by Andreas R.):
Interviewer:
In your last three fights, it seemed like you were looking for
a standup battle more than a ground fight. Has your basic approach
changed or do you just enjoy slugging it out?
Penn:
I just like to fight. Of course you know your opponents have
different tendencies, but I like to be good in all aspects and
use all of them in fights.
Interviewer:
First Rodrigo, then Renzo Gracie - is Ryan next for you now?
Penn:
I don't really know who is next. I am just taking some time off
and waiting to see what happens.
Interviewer:
How much of an advantage is it for you to fight in your home
state in front of your home crowd?
Penn:
It is very comfortable for me, I can sleep so well at home. I
believe it is a huge advantage.
Interviewer:
What does your typical fight day look like?
Penn:
Wake up and eat carbs all day. I eat soba noodles, Ezekiel bread,
and brown rice. I eat fruit and light meats like chicken or fish.
Interviewer:
Your fights against the Gracies have been at middleweight - do
you feel most comfortable at 185 pounds?
Penn:
I think I would like to get to 175. I want to look more lean.
Interviewer:
At lightweight, six of your seven wins came prematurely. Can
you still finish your opponents at the higher weight?
Penn:
I definitely feel I can. The fights I had were with Gracies,
you know how those type of fights will be. I feel Lyoto is a
good fighter but he was tying me up on the ropes a lot.
Interviewer:
Had PRIDE invited you to take part in their welterweight Grand
Prix, would you have accepted the challenge?
Penn:
PRIDE did not invite me. As of now I am fighting with K-1, so
I don't think I will be in PRIDE anytime soon.
Interviewer:
If you got to pick a single opponent to fight - who would be
your absolute dream matchup and why?
Penn:
Royce Gracie, because if promoted well it would be a huge fight
all over the world.
Interviewer:
You have fought both in a cage and in the ring. What are the
advantages and disadvantages, in your opinion, and what's your
preference?
Penn:
I have no preference, they are both fine. There are so many differences
in techniques that you would use for both. An example is that
when taking someone down in the cage you are blocked with your
hands against the fence sometimes. With the ropes your hands
can go through the ropes to get their legs.
Interviewer:
In May you were in the news for allegedly striking a police officer.
I hope this has all been cleared out in your favor...?
Penn:
It is still in pending so I can't talk about it.
Interviewer:
Are you a little disappointed that you haven't become as popular
with the Japanese fans as you did with your supporters stateside?
Penn:
I just never had a chance to fight a Japanese guy. When the time
comes it will be ok.
Interviewer:
Some of the American MMA media has turned sour on you for 'wasting
your potential', because they feel you are not fighting the strongest
opponents possible. What do you retort to those critics?
Penn:
Who's the strongest? Is it all the guys that Hughes beat? The
same media says I am crazy for wanting to fight Vanderlei Silva.
That's the problem with these guys. They don't want to see a
fight unless they think you can win. It's about stepping up and
winning when nobody thinks you can.
Interviewer:
Your Mixed Martial Arts academy has helped almost twenty fighters
making their pro debut. Who do you think has the biggest potential
besides the already established Charuto and Cabbage?
Penn:
Ross 'The Boss', Royden Demotta, Kaynan Kaku, Mike Aina and Shane
Nelson, but there are much more.
Interviewer:
Did you regret the way things turned out with the UFC? Would
you consider returning to the promotion if they offered you an
instant title fight?
Penn:
That is the only thing they could ask me to do. I won't work
my way up when I am the real - you heard that Matt Hughes and
Dana White - the real champ!
Interviewer:
Do you have a message for your German fans?
Penn:
This is amazing that I'm doing an interview for Germany. I'm
so excited, maybe I'll stop by and see what Germany's MMA is
like. Thanks for all the support!
Source:
Fight Sport
|
ROGER
HUERTA NEW IFC LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMP
by Mick Hammond
It’s been a good year for American 155lb standout Roger
Huerta. Earlier this year he took the ISKA-MMA Welterweight Championship
by defeating Brad Blackburn, now this past weekend he claimed
the IFC World Lightweight Championship in front of a hometown
crowd in Texas in a win over Lee King.
Huerta
raised his overall record to 17-2-1 in convincing fashion, submitting
King, a kickboxer by trade, early in the first round to claim
his second title in three fights. According to Huerta, Texas
MMA rules and his opponent’s style played a big part in
how Roger approached the fight.
“First
of all, Texas rules have a standing 8-count if you knock the
guy down,” Huerta told MMAWeekly. “I’m like, ‘this
isn’t boxing,’ so right off the bat my gameplan is
I’m not going to deal with this guy standing. Also, after
hearing that he was a good kickboxer, I decided I was going to
take him down right away and ground ‘n pound him.”
Huerta
continued, “So the fight started and we pretty much go in
and that’s what happened. We touched gloves and he threw
one knee and I admit he got me on the chin. I was able to get
the takedown and I drove him against the cage and got the full
mount and I was about to start raining punches like I did against
Blackburn, but right away he rolled over and gave me his back.
I got the rear naked choke and I sunk it in hard right away and
got the win.”
Roger
had normally fought at 155lbs for most of his career, but due
to taking some fights on short notice and school taking away
from his training time, he hadn’t had to make the weight
in a while, and he felt it this time. “It was quite a thrill
(to fight at lightweight), I hadn’t fought down there in
a while. It took me quite a bit to get down and I was hurting,
but I weighed in at 153lbs.”
The
win over King also represented the first time Huerta had fought
in front of a hometown crowd in Texas in his nearly 3-year career.
According to Roger, having to perform in front of family and
friends had him nervous for the first time ever, but thanks to
family, he was able to overcome it.
“It
was kind of strange and weird to fight in front of all my family
and friends,” explained Roger. “It was good though,
kind of cool. I was nervous actually and I’ve never been
nervous before. It was mainly because I was fighting in front
of my hometown crowd. My mom understood I’d be nervous so
she came out to Minnesota (where Huerta trains and goes to school)
before the fight and calmed me down.”
Now
that Huerta has taken yet another title, his future is looking
even brighter. When asked what he planned to do throughout the
remainder of the year, Huerta said, “Monte (Cox, Huerta’s
Manager) and I talked about it before I flew out of Minneapolis
and we decided I’m going to take the year off and heal up
and finish out this semester of college.”
“He
was telling me don’t mess around and finish this kid right
away. He asked me if I wanted something else, one more fight
before the end of the year, but we decided not to. Basically
it’s his choice too, he wants me to take the rest of the
year off and heal my knee and shoulder 100% because it’s
not worth it fighting injured,” further commented Roger.
Roger
then discussed what’s next after he takes time off to heal.
“We’ll start it back up next year in January. Monte
heard that the UFC is looking to bring back the 155lb division
so that’s a possibility now and he’s also trying to
get me in Japan at 160lbs.”
Huerta
concluded, “I want to thank Sprawl for sponsoring me and
Oscorp Construction too. I want to thank Oscar, Mikki, Poncho,
Carlos, Dr. Garza, Mrs. King, Alvarez, the McCarthys, my mom
and my girlfriend Jessica for coming down. I want to thank Paul
Smith, Monte Cox, MMAWeekly, Daryl Guthmiller and the wrestling
team for helping me out. Thanks to the fans for their support,
and I want them to know I’m taking some time off, but 2006
will be a big year for me; I’m looking forward to beating
all the ranked guys.”
Source:
MMA Weekly
|
KEN
SHAMROCK ON SAKURABA
Ken Shamrock recently spoke with the Japanese media regarding
his upcoming fight against Kazushi Sakuraba. Here's what Shamrock
had to say:
"I'm
really looking forward to fighting Sakuraba. He's a very technical
fighter and has a long record in mixed martial arts. I'm very
excited to be able to fight that kind of fighter. This fight
is very important for me and there's no doubt that this will
be a great match for the mixed martial arts fans, too. I'm also
very happy that I will be able to fight once again in the PRIDE
ring." -Ken Shamrock
SAKURABA
ON SHAMROCK
Kazushi Sakuraba recently spoke with the Japanese media regarding
his upcoming fight against Ken Shamrock. Here's what Sakuraba
had to say:
Sakuraba
when asked if he feels any pressure to win: "I'll do my
best. Please support me."
Sakuraba
when first asked about Ken Shamrock: "I don't have any particular
impression of Shamrock. Chute Boxe beat me up too much and I've
lost all my memory of the past."
Sakuraba
on his upcoming fight against Ken Shamrock: "I'm getting
myself in tune for the fight. [Shamrock] looks strong. He's been
active for a long time and I've always wanted to fight him once,
so I'm looking forward to this."
Sakuraba
expands more about the upcoming fight:
"I
think this is a fight that I have to do my absolute best in.
I lost my last fight so I definitely want to win. I won't know
how effective my training will be until I actually fight. I don't
have a theme for my fights. I just want to win. I want to win,
and if it's a good fight on top of that, great. That's always
my goal. I want to have fun and I'm looking forward to this fight."
Sakuraba
on possibly having to cut weight to make it to 205 pounds: "I'm
plump. (laughing) I ate too much Churrascaria [a Brazilian BBQ]."
Sakuraba
when asked if he will display a new fighting style: "I don't
know the names but they taught me a lot of muay thai and jiu-jitsu
techniques. I don't think I will completely change but I'd like
to use the new techniques I've learned, in addition to my old
ones."
Source:
Fight Sport
|
The
Light Heavyweights: Breaking Down the Top 10
By Sean McClure
1.
The Iceman” Chuck Liddell
Chuck
Liddell started his UFC career at UFC 17 back in 1999 with a
win over Noe Hernandez via decision. In his illustrious career,
he has suffered just three losses and these were to Jeremy Horn
by TKO at UFC 19, Randy Couture by TKO at UFC 43, and to Quinton
Jackson by TKO at Pride Final Conflict 2003. Since then he has
had tremendous success in the UFC and seen his popularity rise
along with it thanks the Ultimate Fighter Season 1 coaching position
opposite Randy Couture. After his loss to Jackson, Chuck has
beaten Tito Ortiz, Vernon White, and avenged his losses against
Randy Couture and Jeremy Horn. Chuck knocked out Renato “Babalu”
Sobral at UFC 40: Vendetta showing he could beat world-class
fighters and stealing the show with one of the most talked out
knockouts among fans. Not only has he beaten Babalu, but Chuck
has a hit list of well-known fighters that have fallen to his
sprawl and brawl style. Alistair Overeem, Vitor Belfort, Murilo
Bustamante, Kevin Randleman, and Guy Mezger make up just some
of the other victims of Chuck’s power. He has proven he
is the number one, most dominant light heavyweight in the world
by taking anybody they put in front of him and dominating them
like only Chuck can.
2.
Mauricio "Shogun" Rua
Shogun
Rua has been a sensation in pride for some time and his fights
are always exciting. Although he does not have the lengthy record
of Chuck Liddell, it is impressive all the same. He has knocked
out Quinton Jackson, knocked out Ricardo Arona, and beaten Antonio
Rogerio Nogueira in his last four fights. Shogun is the most
talked about Pride fighter on the forums today next to Mirko
Filipovic and Fedor Emilianenko thanks to his wins at Pride Final
Conflict 2005. Although his younger brother is also a well-respected
fighter, Mauricio and not Murilo is the most widely known and
talked about. Shogun needs a few more wins over impressive opponents
before he can surpass Chuck at the number one spot.
3.
Randy “The Natural” Couture
Dominating.
That is why he is held in such high regards. Randy dominated
two men who no one thought it was possible to dominate in Chuck
Liddell and Tito Ortiz. He started his UFC career with a win
back at UFC 13 and continued his rise from there. He has beaten
Vitor Belfort and Pedro Rizzo twice in his long career. Two men
who most would have liked to say that they beat just once in
their careers. After his loss to Ricco Rodriguez at UFC 39, Randy
shocked everyone by moving down to the light heavyweight division
and beating Liddell at UFC 43 in impressive fashion. At UFC 44,
Randy beat Tito Ortiz for the light heavyweight title in a complete
squash shocking the world once again. With that performance,
Randy became the first man to win titles in two weight classes
in the UFC.
4.
Wanderlei “The Axe Murderer” Silva
Wanderlei
Silva owned Pride’s light heavyweight division with 20 wins
in that organization and he is unrivaled by any other fighter
there. He has bested Japanese hero Kazushi Sakuraba three times
in as many fights. many US fans are not really in the "know"
about Silva due to his 2-2 record in the UFC... with his last
fight in that promotion going to a decision favoring his opponent,
a young Tito Ortiz. Silva lost a fight that most people thought
he should have won when he was beaten by Ricardo Arona at Pride’s
Final Conflict 2005.
5.
Ricardo Arona
Despite
his victory over Wanderlei Silva, Ricardo lost in the finals
of Pride’s Final conflict to Silva's teammate Mauricio Rua.
Overall, his fight record is impressive with wins over Sakuraba,
Jeremy Horn, Guy Mezger, and Murilo Rua (Mauricio's brother).
Arona’s one weakness is a “lay and pray” attitude
in some big fights. Arona’s skills are definitely strong
and he has a calm exterior in the ring that hides his mean streak.
6.
Antonio Rogerio Nogueira “Minotoro”
The
twin brother of former Pride heavyweight champion Antonio Rodrigo
Nogueira, Rogerio is a well-rounded fighter and a threat in his
own right. Despite fighting in the shadow of his brother’s
outstanding accompishments as a Heavyweight, Antonio has managed
success on his own. He has beaten solid competition in Kazuyushi
Sakuraba, Dan Henderson, and Guy Mezger.
7.
Renato “Babalu” Sobral
Babalu
is the victim of one of the nastiest knockouts in UFC history
that came from a meeting of Chuck Liddell’s shin and his
forehead. Since that loss, Sobral has won 9 times with wins over
Mauricio Rua (number 2 on this list), Travis Wiuff, Jeremy Horn,
and Trevor Prangley. Babalu last fought and won at UFC 55 against
Chael Sonnen via triangle choke. Babalu is one of the most dominant
light heavyweights in the UFC today and possibly the world.
8.
Tito Ortiz “The Huntington Beach Bad Boy”
People
loved Tito as he was the face of the UFC, their poster boy if
you will. His legendary fight with Ken Shamrock at UFC 40 is
over as well as his decision victory over Vitor Belfort. He has
amassed one of the most impressive win resumes in the business,
having defeated Evan Tanner, Wanderlei Silva, Vladimir Matyushenko,
Yuki Kondo, and Elvis Sinosic... Unfortunately, Tito has not
fought in a UFC ring since that fight but there are rumors he
has signed with K-1. Tito is the most controversial figure the
UFC has ever seen and was one of the most dominant champions
in their long history.
9.
Dan “Hollywood” Henderson
Dan
Henderson looks like the guy next door but fights like a machine.
He has impressive wins over Murilo Bustamante, Murilo Rua, and
Ryo Chonan. Dan’s record is solid at 18-4-0 with losses
to Wanderlei Silva, Rodrigo Nogueira, Rogerio Nogueira, and Ricardo
Arona. Henderson is one of the most talked about fighters in
the forums and is always seen as the “dark horse”,
or the guy who is just a big fight away from a spot in the top
three.
10.
Quinton “Rampage” Jackson
Rounding
out our list is Quinton Jackson whose power does his talking
for him. Quinton has beaten Murilo Rua, Chuck Liddell, Ricardo
Arona, Kevin Randleman, and Igor Vovchanchyn to name a few. One
of his most memorable moments came when he knocked out Ricardo
Arona via nasty slam at Pride’s Critical Countdown 2004.
Rampage is known for his intensity although some fans say he
lost some of it in the last year.
Source:
Maxfighting
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