Upcoming
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(All events on Oahu, unless noted)
2008
1/26/08
NAGA Hawaii
(BJJ & Sub Grappling)
(Location TBA)
Tentative
2007
11/24/07
Kickin It
(Kickboxing)
(Dole Cannery Ballroom)
11/18/07
The Quest for Champions 2007 II
(Sport-Pankration, Submission-Grappling, Continuous Sparring)
(St. Louis High School Gym)
11/10/07
Aloha
State Championship of BJJ
(BJJ/Sub Grappling)
(Klum Gym UH Manoa)
10/27/07
Freedom Fighting
"Battle on the Base"
(MMA)
( Kahunas Ballroom, MCBH, Kaneohe)
10/26/07
Kickin It / Got Skills
(Kickboxing, Varios)
(Filcom Center, Waipahu)
X-1 Presents
Fight Club Meets The Night Club
(MMA)
(O Lounge Night Club, Honolulu)
10/6/07
Gracie Proving Grounds
(MMA)
(Blaisdell Arena)
9/28/07
Kickin It / Got Skills
(Kickboxing, Various)
(Filcom Center, Waipahu)
9/15/07
Icon Sport: Fearless
(MMA)
(Blaisdell Arena)
September
Gracie Fighting Championships
(MMA)
9/8/07
UFC
75
(02 Arena in London, England)
(PPV)
Hawaii Fighting Championships
(Kickboxing & MMA)
(Dole Cannery Ballroom)
8/31/07
Fighters Journey
Pro-Am MMA Event
(MMA)
(tba)
X-1 Presents
Fight Club Meets The Night Club
(MMA)
(O Lounge, Honolulu)
8/25/07
UFC
74: Respect
(Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, Nevada )
(PPV)
8/23-25/07
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu World Championshihps
(BJJ)
(The Pyramid, Long Beach, CA)
8/12/07
Punishment
In Paradise 17
(MMA & Kickboxing)
(Hawaiian Waters, Kapolei)
***Postponed***
8/10/07
Hawaii's Most Wanted
(Filcom Center, Waipahu)
8/4/07
X-1
(MMA)
(Blaisdell Arena)
Island Warriors Fighting Championship
(MMA)
(Maui War Memorial Gym, Wailuku, Maui)
7/28/07
Maui
Jiu-Jitsu Tournament
(BJJ & Sub Grappling)
(Maui War Memorial Gymnasium, Wailuku, Maui)
7/21/07
Garden Island Cage Match 6: Caged Fury
(Kickboxing, MMA)
(Hanapepe Stadium, Kauai)
Palolo Boxing Club & Kawano Boxing Club
presents amateur boxing
(Boxing)
(Palolo Gym)
7/14/07
Patriot Fighting Championships
(MMA & Kickboxing)
(Kaneohe Marine Corps Base)
***Postponed***
7/13/07
Hawaii Fighting Championships: Stand Your Ground 3
(Kickboxing & MMA)
(Dole Cannery Ballroom)
7/8/07
Dan Henderson Seminar
(MMA)
(O2
Martial Arts Academy, Aiea)
7/7/07
UFC
73: Stacked
(PPV)
7/1/07
Mike Swain Seminar
(Judo)
(O2
Martial Arts Academy, Aiea)
6/30/07
Icon Sport: Fearless
(MMA)
(Blaisdell Arena)
***Postponed
to 9/15***
6/29/07
MMA Contendors: Conflict - The Beginning
(MMA)
(Farrington H.S. Gym)
X-1 Presents
Fight Club Meets The Night Club
(MMA)
(O Lounge Night Club, Honolulu)
6/23/06
Ultimate Fight Night
(BJ Penn vs Jens Pulver)
(Spike TV)
6/23/07
Hawaiian
Open of BJJ
(BJJ/Sub Grappling)
(Klum Gym UH Manoa)
6/22/07
Got
Skills
(Kickboxing/MMA)
(Waipahu Filcom)
6/16/07
UFC 72: Victory
(PPV)
6/12/07
UFC
Fight Night
(MMA)
(Spike Oceanic 559)
6/3/07
The Quest for Champions 2007
(Sport-Pankration, Submission-Grappling, Continuous Sparring
and Sport-Jujitsu)
(Saint Louis High School Gym)
5/27/07
Benefit Concert for the 2007 Hawaii Junior Olympic Boxing Team
(Ewa Ranch, Ewa Beach)
5/26/07
UFC
71 Liddell vs Rampage
(MMA)
(PPV Oceanic 701)
Memorial Day Mayhem
(Kickboxing)
(Kalaheo High School Gym)
5/19/07
Kickin it
(Kickboxing)
(Waipahu Filcom Center)
5/12/07
Punishment In Paradise: Untouchables
(Kickboxing)
(Hawaiian Waters, Kapolei)
USA-Boxing Hawaii Fundraising Event
(Boxing)
(Palolo Gym)
5/5/07
ROTR Qualifer: Beat Down 3
(MMA)
(Hilo Civic Center, Hilo)
4/28/07
Pride
Fighting Championships:
(PPV)
(Thomas & Mack Center, Las Vegas, NV)
Maui MMA Event
(MMA)
(Maui)
K-1 World GP
(Kickboxing)
(Honolulu)
4/27/07
XMA
(MMA, Kickboxing)
**Cancelled**
4/24/07
Professional Boxing
(Boxing)
(Waipahu Filcom Center)
4/20/07
Kickin It 2007 Part 3
(Kickboxing)
(Filcom Center, Waipahu)
4/7/07
Got Skills
(Kickboxing)
(Waipahu Filcom Center)
Papakolea Jiu-Jitsu Club Tournament
(BJJ & Sub Grappling)
(King Intermediate, Kaneohe)
4/6/07
Hawaii Fighting Championships: Stand Your Ground 3
(MMA)
(Dole Cannery Ballroom)
4/5/07
Ultimate
Fight Night
(Spike TV)
3/31/07
Icon Sport
(MMA)
(Blaisdell Arena)
3/25/07
Kickboxing Benefit Event for Mrs. Faagai
(Kickboxing)
(Waianae H.S. Gym)
3/24/07
Garden Island Cage Match
5
(MMA)
(Kauai)
The 2007
Hawaii State/Regional Junior Olympic Championships (Boxing)
(Palolo District Park)
UFC:
Tito Ortiz vs. Dana White boxing match
(Nevada)
*Cancelled*
3/17/07
X-1
(MMA)
(Blaisdell Arena)
Island Warriors
(MMA)
(Maui War Memorial)
3/13/07
Ultimate
Fight Night
(Spike TV)
3/10/07
Hawaiian Championship of BJJ
(BJJ/Sub Grappling)
(Klum Gym UH Manoa)
3/3/07
UFC 68
(PPV)
(Columbus, Ohio)
Kickin It
(Kickboxing)
(Waipahu Filcom)
2/24/07
Pride Fighting Championships:
(PPV)
(Thomas & Mack Center, Las Vegas, NV)
2/17/06
Got
Skills
(Kickboxing/MMA)
(Waipahu Filcom)
2/16-17/07
USA-Boxing Hawaii State & Regional Championships
(Boxing)
(Palolo District Park Gym)
2/16/07
Punishment
In Paradise 15
(MMA & Kickboxing)
(Hawaiian Waters)
2/9/07
Icon Sports
(MMA & Kickboxing)
(Blaisdell Arena)
2/3/07
UFC
67
(Lutter vs Silva)
(PPV)
2/2/06
Got
Skills & Kickin' It
(Kickboxing/MMA)
(Waipahu Filcom)
1/23/07
Ultimate
Fight Night
(Spike TV)
1/20/07
IFL
(MMA)
1/14/07
NAGA Hawaii
(BJJ & Sub Grappling)
(St. Louis H.S. Gym)
1/13/07
USA Boxing Amateur Boxing
(Boxing)
(Palolo Gym)
1/12/07
K-1 Dynamite
(MMA)
(PPV, 5:00 PM Ch: 701)
|
|
August 2007 News
Part 2
|
Casca Grossa Jiu-Jitsu
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We are also offering Escrima (stick fighting) on Monday nights
and Kickboxing Tuesday and Thursday!
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The Toughest Show On
Teleivision
Tuesdays at 7:00PM
***NEW TIME***
Olelo Channel 52 on Oahu
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Check
out the FCTV website! |
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Quote
of the Day
“My
body is like breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I don't think about
it, I just have it.”
Arnold Schwarzenegger, Austrian-American Actor/Bodybuilder/Politician
|
ROGER
HUERTA READY FOR ANOTHER WAR
Roger Huerta, now 4-0 in the UFC, will make his return to the
Octagon on August 25th when he takes on Alberto Gonzalez Crane.
He stopped by MMAWeekly Radio recently to talk about the fight
and his career of late.
Since
gracing the cover of Sports Illustrated a few months ago, Roger
Huerta has become one of the most popular fighters in the sport,
but the Texas native doesn’t let the hype get to him too
much.
“I
try not to think about it,” said Huerta about his newfound
fame. “I’m a fighter first and foremost. People are
like ‘you’re an awesome fighter, you’re a great
fighter’ and it’s awesome because I hope I am. I come
in there and I try to bang and put on a good show.”
His
upcoming bout will be a showdown with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu expert
and former King of the Cage lightweight champion, Alberto Gonzalez
Crane.
Huerta
admits that Crane is a dangerous opponent harnessing one of the
best ground games in the lightweight division.
“I’d
be stupid to say I’m going to go on the ground with a black
belt in jiu-jitsu guy like that,” Huerta stated about his
opponent. “This is MMA, it’s mixed martial arts, so
I’m going to go in there and do what MMA is about which
is to bang. If it goes to the ground, it goes to the ground.
If it’s standing, it’s standing. So basically it’s
wherever the fight takes, I’ll go and that’s where
we’ll end up.”
In
this fight, Crane will be returning to action for the first time
in over 2 years and ring rust as well as cardio could play a
major factor in the bout.
“It
could definitely be a factor, especially with me, I’m really
conditioned,” said Huerta “One of my biggest assets
is that you fight me, you better be ready to go forever. I’m
not going to gas. I’ve got gas in the tank and I’m
ready to go for a long time. To my opponents and to Alberto,
I hope he’s well conditioned.”
A
student of Dave Menne, Huerta has fought a variety of fighters
with varying styles in his fights this year, but his training
regimen stays the same.
“I
train the same basically for every opponent,” stated Huerta.
“Basically with that said, is just going 100 miles an hour.
I just come in there to bang and to fight. I’m a fighter
and that’s what I do.”
With
his growing popularity and tremendous skill, the question always
comes up for Huerta. When does he want a shot at the title?
“I’ll
be ready whenever,” said a confident Huerta. “It just
depends when Dana White, Joe Silva and my manager Monte (Cox)
decide. Whenever, whatever those guys think. Whenever they think
it’s the time for me to go for that.”
The
bout with Crane will be the fourth this year for Huerta, but
he feels he would like another turn in the Octagon before 2007
expires.
“To
me, I believe there should be one more fight in me before the
year ends.”
With
UFC 74 just a week away, Huerta seems confident going into his
fight with Alberto Crane and wants to make a statement following
his previous fight with Doug Evans.
“You
guys will be in for an awakening,” said Huerta about the
upcoming fight. “I’m quite awakened after my last fight
when I fought Doug (Evans). I got two weeks notice and a week
and three days of training really at the same time so much was
on my mind and I was just so flat in that first round. I have
a lot to prove again. I’m hungry, I feel like I need to
go in there and put on a good show again.”
Huerta
will get his chance when he faces Alberto Crane on August 25th
in Las Vegas on the main card of UFC 74.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
ALBERTO
GONZALEZ CRANE TALKS UFC DEBUT
Many fans don't know who Alberto Gonzalez Crane is, but he plans
on changing that next Saturday night when he faces off against
UFC lightweight star Roger Huerta.
While
Crane's first test in the Octagon isn't an easy one, he brings
a lot of tools to the table that could lead to a very exciting
fight with Huerta. Alberto is a Brazilian jiu-jitsu practitioner
who has competed in Abu Dhabi and in Grappler's Quest. He is
also a former King of the Cage Lightweight Champion. Undefeated
at 8-0, with only one victory by decision, Crane is a submission
expert who likes to finish the fight.
Alberto
Gonzalez Crane hasn't fought since January of 2005, but is now
refocused on his MMA career. “I took a break. I worked.
I sat on the sidelines and watched everybody else.
“I
thought about if I really wanted to do it. I'm back. Before I
wasn't committed, the difference now is I'm 100% committed.”
Crane
has moved to Los Angeles and trains with Renzo Gracie black belt
Shawn Williams as well as The Ultimate Fighter Season 5 runner
up, Manny Gamburyan.
A
couple of years ago, the lightweight division was non-existent
in the UFC, therefore it was hard for the lighter fighters to
make good money. Now with the UFC lightweight division being
one of the most potent divisions in the world, there're plenty
of opportunities for rising stars to make a good living.
“It's
the best time ever to fight in the UFC,” said Crane.
Crane
can instantly boost himself up in the lightweight division with
a win over the very popular Roger Huerta. While Huerta has received
the popularity, many fans feel he hasn't been tested, yet. Huerta
struggled badly in the first round against Doug Evans in his
last fight, but rebounded to force a TKO stoppage in the second.
Crane
knows that he has a tough task ahead of him, but is very confident
in his skills. “I think he's a real tough guy. He has great
stamina. He's aggressive. I think there’s a lot of holes
in his game though and I want to take advantage of that. That's
just my opinion.”
Many
fighters put pressure on themselves in their UFC debut, but Crane
doesn't feel that way. He's just excited to be there and to be
on the main card. “I'm not putting any pressure on myself.
I'm just happy to be in the UFC. It's something that I've been
wanting for a long time and I'm excited. I'm really grateful
for the opportunity to fight Roger and to fight in the UFC.”
Some
people may believe that Alberto Gonzalez Crane would have some
ring rust after not fighting for over two years, but he believes
he'll be fine. “I've been competing a lot in grappling,
so I feel good.”
With
UFC 74 coming up next weekend, this fight is definitely looking
to be one of the most exciting fights on the card. “You
can expect an awesome, dynamic, crazy fight. Don't miss it.”
Source: MMA Weekly
|
FIGHT-BY-FIGHT:
SHOOTO "THE ARRIVAL" [UPDATE]
Shooto makes its long awaited debut on the U.S. mainland on Saturday
night as Manly Promotions presents Shooto: The Arrival at the
No Limits Event Center in Irvine, Calif. Three Shooto standouts
make their way to the mainland.
[UPDATE]
The promotion had intended to have UFC and Pride veteran Nick
Diaz face Shinji Sasaki in a submission grappling match, but
the California State Athletic Commission would not allow Diaz
to compete. According to Jason Manly, Shooto's promotional partner
in the U.S., the commission said that due to Diaz' suspension
in Nevada, he "cannot compete in any fashion" in California.
SHOOTO
LIGHTWEIGHT BOUT:
TENKEI FUJIMIYA VS. BAO QUACH
Shooto
Lightweight 2005 Rookie Champion Tenkei Fujimiya takes on rugged
veteran Bao Quach. Tenkei Fujimiya has a 7-1-2 record in MMA
and trains out of the Shooting Gym Yokohama with Mamoru. Bao
Quach has a 9-8-1 record in MMA and trains out of the No Limits
Training Center with Colin Oyama. Fujimiya, the #7 Featherweight
in the MMAWeekly World MMA Rankings, is coming off a disappointing
decision loss to current Shooto Lightweight Champion Akitoshi
Tamura at Shooto: Back to Our Roots. Quach last scored a knockout
victory over Del Hawkins at IFO: Eastman vs. Kimmons.
Out
of the three match-ups involving Shooto talent, this is the most
evenly matched as both fighters will come out looking to bang.
Fujimiya is coming off two rather uninspiring performances in
the ring, first drawing with Katsuya Toida then dropping a decision
to Akitoshi Tamura, a fighter that Fujimiya had previously knocked
out. Quach is a veteran of Shooto and has reeled off three straight
wins to put his record over .500.
This
fight basically comes down to who will be the first fighter to
connect with a solid shot then be able to pounce and finish his
opponent. When it’s all said and done, look for Fujimiya
to prove a point and impressively knockout a less talented Quach
in exciting fashion.
Prediction:
Tenkei Fujimiya by KO in the first round.
SHOOTO
WELTERWEIGHT BOUT:
KENICHIRO TOGASHI VS. BRAIN COBB
BJJ
black belt Kenichiro Togashi returns to California to take on
Gladiator Challenge Lightweight Champion Brian Cobb. Kenichiro
Togashi has a 7-4-4 record in MMA and trains out of Paraestra
Hiroshima with Keisuke Sakai. Brian Cobb has a 9-4 record in
MMA and trains out of Team Pain and Suffering in California.
Togashi won a fairly easy submission victory over Darren Crisp
at a recent Warrior’s Cup show. Cobb earned his third victory
over John Reedy at ShowXC: Noons vs. Berto.
Togashi
is easily one of the most underrated lightweights in the world
due in part to his deceiving record, which doesn’t tell
the whole story behind the fighter. Although they are recorded
as losses, Togashi fought two close wars with two top ten lightweights
in Joachim Hansen and Mitsuhiro Ishida where he held his own
with both. Cobb has been impressive of late, notching three straight
victories after an unsuccessful debut in Japan against Eiji Mitsuoka
at Cage Force 2.
Both
fighters seem to be very competent on the ground and that is
going to be the undoing for Cobb. Cobb is nowhere near the same
level on the ground as Togashi and that is where he will falter.
Look for Cobb to put up a good fight against Togashi but he eventually
fall to the superior ground skills of Togashi.
Prediction:
Kenichiro Togashi by submission in the second round.
SHOOTO
WELTERWEIGHT BOUT:
“WICKY” AKIYO NISHIURA VS. JOE CAMACHO
Shooto
Lightweight 2006 Rookie Champion “Wicky” Akiyo Nishiura
will make his debut at 155lbs as he takes on Joe Camacho. “Wicky”
Akiyo Nishiura has a 6-2 record in MMA and trains out of the
Shooting Gym Yokohama with “Lion” Takeshi Inoue. Joe
Camacho has an 8-11-2 record in MMA and trains out of Aloisio
Silva BJJ in California. Wicky comes scored a close split decision
victory over Hideki Kadowaki at Shooto: Back to Our Roots 2.
Camacho comes off a stoppage victory over Hector Pena at California
Cage Championships: Road to the Championship.
Plain
and simple this is going to be a showcase fight for Wicky, who
will make his debut at a higher weight division. Wicky has had
trouble in recent fights making weight at 145lbs and has decided
that he is better suited at 155lbs, where he might have a little
more pop in his already strong punch. Camacho has been around
for a while and is a respected veteran, but he has always faltered
against top competition as his record shows.
This
fight isn’t going to be any different. Look for Wicky to
take advantage on the feet and finish off on the ground with
strikes in an exciting fashion.
Prediction:
“Wicky” Akiyo Nishiura by TKO in the first round.
SHOOTO:
THE ARRIVAL
Saturday, August 18
No Limits Event Center
Irvine, California
-Main
Event: Tenkei Fujimiya vs. Bao Quach
-Kenichiro Togashi vs. Brian Cobb
-Akiyo “Wicky” Nishiura vs. Joe Camacho
-Brett Cooper vs. Vince Guzman
-Raja Shippen vs. Leo Hirai
-Rudy Gomez vs. Nick Breaker
-Kelvin Nimsiriuengphal vs. Rick McKorkal
-Travis McRoberts vs. Richie Collingham
-Martin Bautista vs. Albert Hill
-Steve Grode vs. Carlos Fuentes
-Brian Platfoot vs. Shane Delrosario
Source: MMA Weekly
|
Quote
of the Day
"If
you're bored with life
-- you don't get up every morning with a burning desire to do
things
-- you don't have enough goals."
Lou Holtz, American College Football Coach and Motivational Speaker
|
More
red ink for the IFL
The IFL filed it’s 10-Q report with the SEC (links here
and here). The numbers don’t lie. Pay attention to the comments
section of this post, as I expect a lot of our smart financial
readers to chomp into the data here. Here’s the first thing
that stands out from the latest 10-Q:
For
the three months ended June 30, 2007, we incurred a net loss
of $6.9 million, or $0.13 per share, as compared to a net loss
of $1.8 million, or $0.10 per share during the comparable period
in 2006. For the six months ended June 30, 2007, we incurred
a net loss of $13.8 million, or $0.26 per share, as compared
to a net loss of $2.4 million, or $0.14 per share, during the
comparable period in 2006.
Revenues
for the three and six months ended June 30, 2007 were $2.7 million
and $4.2 million, respectively. During 2006, revenues for the
comparable periods were $738,000.
Regarding
the IFL’s cash reserves:
Based
upon management’s current forecast of future revenues and
expenses, the Company believes its cash resources will likely
be sufficient to fund operations into the second quarter of 2008.
The Company is also evaluating the profitability of other revenue
sources, such as franchise or team sales, digital rights and
pay-per-view broadcasts.
Now
you see why they like the team concept — they’re hoping
to reel in some money marks who would pony up cash to ‘own’
a team.
The
10Q states that on 12/31/06, the IFL had $16.6 million USD in
cash and cash equivalents. As of 6/30/07, they have $2.5 million
USD in cash and cash equivalents. The most damning number is
their accumulated deficit figure, which was $9.6 million USD
on 12/31/06 and is now nearly $23.5 million USD as of 6/30/07.
The IFL’s current outstanding liabilities are at $1.9 million
USD as of 6/30/07.
It
actually gets worse. Their 2007 house show revenues are $1.4
million USD as of 6/30/07. The cost to make that money at the
gate? $12 million USD. Now throw in the figures they made from
TV. The revenues would be $4.2 million USD, with only $141,224
USD of that coming from sponsorships (not good). The cost of
that $4.2 million in revenues is $13.8 million USD. Even though
the IFL made nearly double off of TV rights as they did on house
shows, they still are massively hemorrhaging cash to produce
events. The current operating loss for the IFL in 2007 is $14
million USD and the net loss is $13.8 million USD.
The
end result is that the numbers look real bleak for the IFL. There’s
no sugercoating the bad financials. I’m not as nice about
it as Steve Sievert is. I’ve got a fantastic idea - let’s
have an MMA version of an “I Quit” match between the
IFL and Pro Elite, except it’s really a Loser Leaves Town
match.
Plus,
more bad news for the IFL - Rory Markham will be out of the IFL
team finals on 9/20 in Florida.
Source: Fight Opinion
|
Bustamante
defeated Wanderlei at MTL
In
an amazing dispute, the Wildfire, team that had Murilo Bustamente
as coach, defeated Hurricane, headed by Wanderlei Silva by a
3x2 score at MO Team League, that was hold at São Paulo,
last Saturday, August 10. Wildfire scored first after Luciano
Azevedo finished Ocimar Costa with a triangle position on the
third round, after lost the first and been better on the second,
staying almost all time on Ocimar’s back. At 77kg category,
Flávio Alvaro defeated Gérson Conceição
by judges decision, and tie the score for Wanderlei’s team.
Making
the best bout of the night, Rafael Sapo made one more point for
Wanderlei’s Hurricane, winning Silmar Rodrigo in 84kg category.
Sapo took Silmar down in the third rounds and almost submitted
him in the first, when took Silmar backs and tried a rear naked
choke. Avoiding Wanderlei’s Hurricane victory, Alexandre
Cacareco used all his experience to take down, pass to the half
guard and submit Rafael Monteiro with a Kimura at 1m20s of the
initial round.
The
decision stayed for the heavyweight bout. André Mussi
(Hurricane), that had already defeated Joaquim Mamute (Wildfire)
at XFC Brasil, didn’t repeated the same performance. After
took Mussi down and hitting him from the guard on the first round,
Mamute repeated the take down on the second, passed the guard
and stayed on the north-south position, submitting the fight
with a choke that guarantied the victory for Murilo Bustamente’s
Wildfire.
COMPLET
RESULTS
MTL
Club Athlético Paulistano, São Paulo, Saturday,
August 11, 2007
Alternate
fights:
- Marcos Babuino defeated Rodrigo Ruiz at judges decision;
- Allan Fróes defeated Paulo Arruda at judges decision;
Wildfire
3x2 Hurricane:
- Luciano Azevedo (70kg) submitted Ocimar da Costa (69,9kg) with
a triangule position;
- Flavio Álvaro (76,5kg) defeated Gerson Conceição
(77kg) at judges decision;
- Rafael Sapo (83,8kg) defeated Silmar Rodrigo (83,4kg) at judges
decision;
- Alexandre Cacareco (92,7kg) submitted Rafael Monteiro (92,8kg)
with a kimura;
- Joaquim Mamute (114kg) submitted André Mussi (119,2kg)
with a choke.
Source: Tatame
|
A
Gentle Giant's Existentialist Woes
by John Lee
Last
Wednesday, a special report on Hong Man Choi was broadcast on
Korea's version of 60 Minutes, the disingenuously titled In-depth
60 Minutes, which has led to the resurgence of a controversy
surrounding Choi's health.
There
was a media circus earlier this June when it was revealed Choi's
scheduled bout with Brock Lesnar on K-1's June 2nd Dynamite!!
USA card was cancelled because MRI results showed the clinical
presence of a tumor near the South Korean's pituitary gland.
The
TV special comes hot off the heels of a California State Athletic
Commission (CSAC) hearing on Aug. 6 at which Choi's appeal of
the commission's decision to deny him a license was on the agenda.
Not
only did the CSAC uphold its original decision to bar Choi from
fighting, it also revealed surprising evidence to suggest that
the fighter's camp and promoter, Fight Entertainment Group, had
possibly falsified medicals for one of Choi's K-1 matches in
Nevada a year earlier.
The
paperwork filed with the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC)
showed a "perfect MRI" without a tumor, said CSAC Executive
Officer Armando Garcia, whereas the MRI results taken this year
clearly showed the presence of a tumor roughly 2 cm wide. Logically,
this could mean only two possible scenarios: a) the MRI submitted
in California was doctored, or b) a tumor appeared within a year,
which is plausible, but unlikely as Choi admitted to having a
tumor since high school.
The
official position of Choi's camp is that no MRI was submitted
to NSAC, only a medical statement. Choi's camp and FEG Korea
are preparing a case to counter these allegations. Apparently,
in Nevada, if a fighter has taken an MRI within a year, he or
she has the option of submitting a medical statement by a licensed
doctor based on that MRI, instead of being required to take a
new scan at a state appointed hospital as in California.
While
Choi has not specifically commented on the impact this will have
on his fighting career, it is generally viewed that he will not
be able to fight in the U.S. any time soon. However, the fact
that neither representatives from FEG or the fighter's camp were
present at the hearing on Aug. 6 suggests that they are not overwhelmingly
concerned with Choi's suspension in the U.S.
What
is a concern is that this will negatively impact the K-1 World
Grand Prix Final 16 to be held in Seoul, Korea on Sept. 29. This
event, which has traditionally been held in Osaka, Japan, has
tremendous significance for K-1: it signals K-1's move to expand
its presence in Korea and the rest of East Asia.
The
Sensibilities of a Giant
Perhaps
because this incident threatens Choi's participation in the September
event and by extension his livelihood, the "Techno-Goliath"
seems to be taking the recent media coverage detailing his illness
very personally.
Following
the news report that stressed the life-threatening severity of
acromegaly and gigantism, of which Choi is claimed to be suffering
from, he has since gone into seclusion, resurfacing just once
to hold an interview with ISplus.com and express his resentment
towards the Korean media, which he claims has painted a malicious
and erroneous depiction of his illness.
"I'm
a human being too," he said. "Like everyone else I
want to live a long and healthy life. I'm the kind of person
who believes your health is more important than money. Why would
I have jumped into K-1 if I thought I was going to die in a few
years? If I felt that there was even a 0.01 percent possibility,
I'd walk away.
"I'm
thankful people are concerned, but right now I just want to leave
the country and live overseas," wailed an indignant Choi
in response to accusations of the moral depravity in risking
one's health for money.
At
the August 6 hearing Garcia entreated Choi to receive immediate
medical attention and duly withdraw from active competition.
"Even
I got scared when I head about the CSAC's announcement in June,"
responded Choi. "But I felt the initial tests were carried
out a bit carelessly and went out and got a second, third and
fourth opinion, all of which said I didn't need surgery."
Robert
S. Bray, a Medical Director with Saint John's Spine Institute
in Los Angeles, confirmed that while Choi does have "an
active growth-hormone-secreting tumor," it is not a serious
threat to his health or life and can be treated with a few weeks
of drug therapy, and so "should not restrict Mr. Hong Man
Choi from continuing to fight," which it did not as recently
as Aug. 5 when he stopped Gary Goodridge in Hong Kong.
Choi's
reactions are partly understandable: when you are 7' 2"
and 350 pounds, it doesn't take a genius to figure out what people
are snickering behind your back.
Garcia
vindicated … to a certain extent
While
all the attention has focused on Choi's illness, one lesson that
could be taken away from all this is the importance of medical
regulation in combat sports, something that should not be lost
in raising greater awareness of fighters' safety in South Korea.
Moreover,
Garcia's statement that "the interests of the event, promotion
or management come second to the interests of the fighter"
seems to have reverberated fairly loudly in Korea: since the
TV special, the media, various figures in the sports community
and medical doctors have through interviews expressed the need
to increase the standards of medical regulation in combat sports.
Korea
is notorious for its lax medical standards. In most instances,
the onus is placed entirely on the fighters to look out for their
own safety; the Korean government currently leaves it up to the
fighters to deem for themselves whether they are fit to compete
or not.
In
fact, Korea witnessed its first MMA related death at a Gimme
5 event (now known as Neofight) in 2005. The cause of death was
due to brain hemorrhaging after the fight, but many blamed the
death on the promotion's inadequate medical standards.
Despite
this shocking death, not much has changed since: at MMA events
today, only one or two general practitioners, who do not have
much experience in dealing with MMA-related injuries, are dispatched
from local hospitals.
In
comparison, the medical standards are vastly better in Japan;
however, due to this fiasco with Choi, K-1 in particular has
suffered a serious blow to its image.
Many
people are now beginning to question K-1's actions in knowingly
allowing Choi to fight at risk to himself and accusing K-1 of
moral corruption and corporate exploitation. And, there is always
the issue of steroids in Japan.
In
the long run this incident could prove to be beneficial to combat
sports in Korea and East Asia in general, similar to how John
McCain's renouncement of the UFC as "human cock-fighting"
brought about vast regulatory changes that ended up saving the
UFC and mixed martial arts in the U.S.
The
Korean government has not yet intervened, but as more people
take up the cause and demand greater medical regulation, that
could happen.
As
for Choi, one can only hope that he truly believes in the aphorism
he has displayed on his personal Web site: "What won't kill
me, will only make me stronger."
Choi
isn't the most graceful fighter in the world, but he may very
well be the saving grace of combat sports in Asia.
Source: Sherdog
|
IFL
World Team Championship rosters announced
The International Fight League (OTC.BB: IFLI), the world’s
number one professional mixed martial arts league, today announced
the rosters for the 2007 IFL World Championship on Thursday,
September 20, at Seminole Hard Rock in Hollywood, Fla. Many of
the league’s top stars will be in action as the second-seeded
New York Pitbulls (3-0 regular season), coached by Brazilian
Jiu-Jitsu master and MMA legend Renzo Gracie take on the defending
champion Quad Cities Silverbacks (2-1), led by MMA champion Pat
Miletich. Additionally, a series of preliminary bouts will feature
other stars of the IFL and competitors from American Top Team,
one of the country’s largest and most active MMA squads.
Among
the most anticipated matchups in the final include rematches
between heavyweights Bryan Vetell (Jamaica, N.Y.) of the Pitbulls
and Ben Rothwell (Milwaukee, Wis.), and between middleweights
Fabio Leopoldo (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) and Ryan McGivern (Bettendorf,
Iowa). Rothwell, the undefeated heavyweight, brings an 8-0 IFL
record into the match, including four wins in 2007. He won a
first-round KO over Vetell in their 2006 meeting in Moline, Ill.
Leopoldo was the victor in the previous matchup with McGivern,
via second-round submission at the same event.
Fans
are also excited about the battles between light heavyweights
Jamal Patterson (Hoboken, N.J.) and Mike Ciesnolevicz (Williamstown,
Pa.) and lightweights Deividas Taurosevicius (New York) and Bart
Palaszewski (Wonder Lake, Ill.). Patterson has first-round wins
in all three of his IFL triumphs and faces a tough test in Ciesnolevicz,
who has won five straight bouts. Taurosevicius, who served as
the Pitbulls’ alternate earlier in the year, was promoted
to starter for the team’s semifinal win over the Tokyo Sabres
and proved up to the task with a victory. He steps up against
Palaszewski, whose eight wins match Rothwell’s for the most
in IFL history.
The
Pitbulls’ Delson Heleno (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) will take
on a replacement at welterweight for the Silverbacks, as standout
Rory Markham (Chicago) injured his left hand in his semifinal
victory and will not be available for the final.
“I
think it’s fitting that two of our flagship franchises meet
for the World Championship rings,” said IFL Commissioner
and Co-Founder Kurt Otto. “We are looking forward to a night
of non-stop action as the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu style of Renzo
Gracie’s athletes goes up against Pat Miletich’s patented
methods.”
The
Pitbulls advanced to the finals by edging the Sabres, 3-2, while
the Silverbacks registered a 4-1 triumph over the top-seeded
Los Angeles Anacondas, on August 2 at Continental Airlines Arena
in East Rutherford, N.J. The two teams did not meet during the
2007 regular season, but the Silverbacks did record a 3-2 win
on Sept. 23, 2006, in Moline, Ill.
In
addition to the team competition, the night will include four
preliminary bouts of interest to IFL fans as well as local enthusiasts.
In action will be popular IFL lightweight Ryan Schultz (North
Platte, Neb.) of the Portland Wolfpack against American Top Team’s
Aaron Riley (Port St. Lucie, Fla.); light heavyweight Allan Goes
(Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) of the Tiger Sharks against Chris Baten
(Tampa, Fla.); and welterweight Brad Blackburn (Olympia, Wash.)
against Travis Cox (Naples, Fla.). Rolles Gracie (New York),
a Jiu-Jitsu champion, also makes his MMA debut against ATT’s
Seth Petruzelli (Orlando, Fla.).
Following
the Championship, the IFL will hold its season-ending “World
Grand Prix,” pitting the league’s top athletes at each
weight class. The semifinals will be held on Nov. 3 at the Sears
Centre in Chicago, with the winners advancing to the World Grand
Prix finals on Dec. 29 at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn.
The
full rosters for the Finals follow. Bout order will be determined
by coaches’ choice prior to the Official Weigh-in on September
19.
No.
4 Silverbacks (2-1 regular season team, 9-6 indiv.) vs. No. 2
Pitbulls (3-0, 10-5)
155 lb.: Bart Palaszewski (Wonder Lake, Ill.) (8-1 IFL, 28-8
overall) vs. Deividas Taurosevicius (Lithuania) (2-0, 8-2)
170 lb.: TBD vs. Delson Heleno (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) (4-2,
11-3)
185 lb.: Ryan McGivern (Bettendorf, Iowa) (4-4, 10-5) vs. Fabio
Leopoldo (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) (3-1, 5-2)
205 lb: Mike Ciesnolevicz (Williamstown, Pa.) (5-2, 13-2) vs.
Jamal Patterson (Hoboken, N.J.) (3-1, 3-1)
265 lb.: Ben Rothwell (Milwaukee, Wis.) (7-0, 22-5) vs. Bryan
Vetell (Jamaica, N.Y.) (2-2, 3-2)
Preliminary
Bouts
155 lb.: Ryan Schultz (North Platte, Neb.) (3-2, 16-9-1) vs.
Aaron Riley (Port St. Lucie, Fla.) (0-0, 23-9-1)
170 lb.: Brad Blackburn (Olympia, Wash.) (3-2, 10-9) vs. Travis
Cox (Naples, Fla.) (0-0, 4-4)
205 lb.: Allan Goes (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) (3-1, 10-5-2) vs.
Chris Baten (Tampa, Fla.) (0-0, 5-2)
265 lb.: Rolles Gracie (New York) (0-0, 0-0) vs. Seth Petruzelli
(Orlando, Fla.) (0-0, 7-4)
Source: MMA Fighting
|
Wand
trains with Couture
In Las Vegas, Silva trains with the veteran
Randy Couture gained a heck of a reinforcement for the final
stretch of his preparations for his fight against the Brazilian
Gabriel Gonzaga, set for August 25, in defense of his UFC heavyweight
belt. The latest star to move to Las Vegas, Wanderlei Silva had
barely arrived in the world capital of MMA when he went to train
at the academy of the veteran UFC champion.
According
to the site Xtreme Couture MMA, Wand even risked a prediction
for the main bout of UFC 74. “Randy is ready for this fight,
with good boxing. He will win,” said Wand, whose final days
in Brazil you can learn about in NOCAUTE #55, which will hit
the newsstands in Brazil by Friday.
The
praise doesn’t stop there. “He is really strong on
the ground. He has excellent Jiu-Jitsu and a lot of stamina.
He is stronger than I thought,” Wand said as an observation.
Source: Gracie Magazine
|
Quote
of the Day
"The
reverse side also has a reverse side."
Japanese Proverb
|
Mixed
martial arts 'Uprising' will get national TV audience
By Dayton Morinaga
Advertiser Staff Writer
ELITEXC:
UPRISING
What:
Professional mixed martial arts
Where:
Blaisdell Center Arena
When:
Sept. 15, preliminary bouts start at 3 p.m.
Who:
Robbie Lawler vs. Murilo "Ninja" Rua in main event,
plus 10 other bouts.
TV:
Five bouts, including the main event, will be shown live on Showtime.
Tickets:
$25 for upper level, $35 for risers (off center), $45 for loge
and risers (center), $75 for floor; $150, $250 or $400 for ringside.
Available at Blaisdell box office or www.ticketmaster.com.
Millions of eyes are expected to focus on Hawai'i for a mixed
martial arts event Sept. 15.
The
EliteXC organization is spending millions of dollars to put on
a good show.
Gary
Shaw, president of live events for EliteXC, made an official
announcement yesterday that the "Uprising" card at
the Blaisdell Center Arena on Sept. 15 will be televised live
on the Showtime cable network. It is the first MMA event from
Hawai'i to be televised across the nation.
"We're
flying in a large group to produce this event, and we're also
going to help the economy by hiring local crew as well,"
Shaw said. "We're looking at $1.5 million, at least, just
to make this happen."
Iowa's
Robbie Lawler will face Brazil's Murilo "Ninja" Rua
for the EliteXC middleweight world championship in the main event.
Five
bouts are scheduled to be televised on Showtime, starting at
4 p.m. (Hawai'i time). Only subscribers of Showtime can view
it (it could be blacked out in Hawai'i, depending on ticket sales).
Shaw
said Showtime currently has more than 15 million subscribers.
"That's
a lot of people," Shaw said. "But I've always believed
that Hawai'i is the home of mixed martial arts, and that's a
big reason why I wanted to do this."
In
addition to Lawler-Rua, the other bouts scheduled for broadcast
are: Nick Diaz vs. Mike Aina; Joey Villasenor vs. Riki Fukuda;
Jake Shields vs. Renato "Charuto" Verissimo; Gina Carano
vs. Tonya Evinger.
Aina
and Verissimo train in Hilo. Several other Hawai'i athletes are
scheduled to appear on the non-televised undercard.
To
help promote the event, EliteXC signed Hawai'i's top two MMA
organizations — Icon Sport and Rumble on the Rock.
"Without
a doubt, Sept. 15 will be the biggest and greatest MMA event
Hawai'i has ever seen," Icon Sport president T. Jay Thompson
said. "But Sept. 15 will not be the biggest and greatest
event Hawai'i will ever see. I think this is the beginning of
what will be some amazing MMA on the islands."
Rumble
president Jay Dee Penn said: "There's two different fan
bases with Rumble and Icon, so I think this will bring the two
bases together and take the sport to a whole new level."
Thompson
and Penn have both promoted numerous MMA shows at the Blaisdell
Arena, but both said EliteXC's production will be different.
"This
will be bigger and better than anything we've seen in Hawai'i
for MMA," Thompson said. "The bells and whistles that
come with this show are something else, not to mention the quality
of fights."
It
should be noted that Icon Sport and Rumble on the Rock are collaborating
for the Sept. 15 event only.
Rumble
on the Rock is scheduled to host its own show Oct. 20; Icon Sport
has its own show scheduled for Nov. 17.
Thompson
said Lawler and Wai'anae's Kala Kolohe Hose are scheduled to
meet for the Icon Sport championship on the Nov. 17 card, regardless
of what happens on Sept. 15.
Before
the EliteXC deal went through, Lawler and Hose were scheduled
to meet Sept. 15. Hose is scheduled to face Jeff Cox on the undercard
Sept. 15.
"UPRISING"
CARD
185
pounds: Robbie Lawler vs. Murilo "Ninja" Rua. 155:
Nick Diaz vs. Mike Aina. 185: Joey Villasenor vs. Riki Fukuda.
170: Jake Shields vs. Renato Verissimo. 135 (women): Gina Carano
vs. Tonya Evinger. 185: Kala Kolohe Hose vs. Jeff Cox. 185: Mark
Kurano vs. Jose Diaz. 135: Mark Oshiro vs. Nui Wheeler. 170:
Brandon Wolff vs. TBA. 135: Albert Manners vs. Tyson Nam. 160:
Kolo Koka vs. Justin Buchholz.
Reach
Dayton Morinaga at dmorinaga@honoluluadvertiser.com.
Source: Honolulu Advertiser
|
Kapolei
girl a whirlwind in, out of the boxing ring
By Brandon Masuoka
Advertiser Staff Writer
Alyssa's
dad David is an O2 Martial Arts Academy student. Congratulations
Alyssa!
"I really want to do this, especially for the 2012 Olympics,"
says boxer Alyssa-Lende Kane, who trains five to six days a week.
JOAQUIN SIOPACK | The Honolulu Advertiser
PACKING A PUNCH
Name:
Alyssa-Lende Kane
Hometown:
Kapolei
Age:
13
Height,
weight: 5-1, 114 pounds
Weight
class: Age 13-14, girls intermediate 114-pound division
Coach:
Bruce Kawano
Trains
at: Kawano Boxing Club, Waipahu Boxing Club, Palolo Boxing Club
and 'Ewa's 5-0 Boxing Club
Started
boxing: November 2006
School:
Myron B. Thompson Academy, eighth grade
Titles:
2007 Ringside World Champion; 2007 Hawai'i Junior Olympic Champion
Family:
Parents, David and Aloha; siblings, Anolani, Kawika, Anuhea;
and dog Hokule'a
Activities:
Assists with Hawaiian Homestead Association, Office of Hawaiian
Affairs and local church; competes in club volleyball; dances
for Hula Halau Kaululaua'e.
Life with Alyssa-Lende Kane is a flurry of club volleyball, hula,
church, volunteer work and body punches. The tireless 13-year-old
world boxing champion from Kapolei does it all, and even works
comedy.
After
winning the Ringside World Boxing Championship this month at
Kansas City, Mo., Kane said the feeling was "better than
ice cream and lasagna."
"It
hasn't sunk in yet," said Kane, who earned a big title belt
after going 2-0 in the girls intermediate 114-pound weight division.
In the title bout, she stopped defending champion Shelby Bialkowski
of Canada less than a minute into the first round with a hard
body shot.
It
was a quick victory, and an equally meteoric rise to boxing stardom
for Kane, who was inspired by the boxing movie "Million
Dollar Baby." She started the sport in November 2006 after
neighbor Patrick Trani told her about the Waipahu Boxing Club
where she met coaches Al Silva and Armando Blue.
Hawai'i
coaches are betting her work ethic, smarts and skill will eventually
lead her to the 2012 Olympics in London. By that time, Kane will
be a seasoned 17-year-old and, hopefully, women's boxing will
be popular enough to become an Olympic sport.
"I
really want to do this, especially for the 2012 Olympics,"
Kane said. "My dad (David) was telling me that boxing is
big in the Olympics. It's the biggest tournament in the world.
The whole hype of it sounds awesome. Women's boxing hasn't passed
for the Olympics yet, but I'm pretty sure it's going to pass
by 2012."
Another
of Kane's coaches, Bruce Kawano, called her a "great ambassador
for boxing" and praised her "unbelievable work ethic."
Kane
said she works out five to six days a week. She runs 2 miles
in the morning, keeps a strict diet without white rice and junk
food, and catches the bus from Kapolei to Kalakaua gym where
she spars with boys Emmit Bolibol, Mason Cornelio and Jonathan
Benitez.
"Before,
I took it easy on her," said Bolibol, 14, a ninth-grader
at Farrington High School. "But once she hit me hard in
the stomach, I stopped taking it easy on her. She's way better
than the first time I met her."
Kane
said her first sparring bout with a girl was a painful one.
"I
sparred with an 18-year-old girl for one round and she hit me
with a mean body shot and I went down," Kane said. "My
dad asked me if I still wanted to spar, and I told him, 'Yes.'
He was surprised.
"I
really want to go far in this sport."
Kawano
believes Kane has the charisma and aura to attract more females
to boxing. Recently, Kane's 16-year-old cousin, Rebecca Sarce,
decided to give the sport a try.
"Hopefully
with Alyssa doing well and being a role model, it might stir
some interest," said Kawano, who estimated that Hawai'i
has about 10 competitive female boxers.
Kane
is in the eighth grade at Myron B. Thompson Academy, where students
can be homeschooled. She has been homeschooled for three years
and enjoys it.
"I
don't miss out on my friends because I am so active and I have
a busy schedule," said Kane, who wants to become a lawyer
or psychologist. "I meet more than enough friends in my
neighborhood, church, boxing, volleyball, hula and my community
service (beach clean ups, Hawaiian Homestead Association advocate)
and volunteer work (Office of Hawaiian Affairs clerical work)."
Finally,
for Kane to make the Olympics, Kawano said she would have to
perform well at USA Boxing qualifying tournaments, probably starting
in 2011.
"She
would have to really step it up from there," he said. "I
think she can do well if she keeps her work ethic and keeps her
hunger."
NOTES
Nine
Hawai'i boxers won Ringside World Championships, held July 31
to Aug. 4 at Kansas City, Mo. The Hawai'i competitors were:
Boys
11-12, novice — 65 pounds: Guillermo Ruiz, Carson, Calif.,
def. Brandon Hashiguchi, Wahiawa; 70: Shayson Soares, Wai'anae,
def. Christian Bernudez, Brooklyn, N.Y.; 85: Andrew Mccue, Waipahu,
def. Hunter Turbyfill, Olive Branch, Miss.; 90: Isaac Manalo,
Waimanalo, def. Federico Ambriz, Pampa, Texas; 100: Jazavian
Palmer, Lubbock, Texas def. Mason Cornelio, Honolulu.
Boys
13-14, novice — 95: Samuel Villareal, Larado, Texas def.
Jonathan Benitez, Wai'anae.
Boys
15-16, novice, blue — 112: Isaiah Manalo, Waimanalo, def.
David Palacios, Kitchener, Ontario; 132: Richard Soto, San Antonio
def. Arnold Berdon, Wai'anae; 141: Boston Salmon, Wai'anae, def.
Louis Flores, Kansas City, Mo.; 201: Noa Suiaunoa, Wai'anae,
def. Brandon Carmack, Kansas City, Mo.
Girls
11-12, open — 70: Jada Pereira, Wai'anae def. Villa Madison,
Wichita, Kan.
Girls
13-14, open — 114: Alyssa Kane, Kapolei, def. Shelby Biakowski,
Windsor, Ontario.
Girls
15-16, open — 119: Angela Bradford, Fort Worth, Texas def.
Helena Delacruz-Lopes, Wai'anae.
Men's
17-34, novice red — 132: Thomas Matias, Wai'anae def. Kyle
Duke, Kansas City, Mo.
Reach
Brandon Masuoka at bmasuoka@honoluluadvertiser.com.
Source: Honolulu Advertiser
|
Vitale Agrees to Deal with
K-1, Strikeforce
Falaniko
Vitale (Pictures) has agreed in principle on a multi-fight deal
that will put him in both the K-1 HERO's ring and Strikeforce
cage, the Hawaiian's manager Ken Pavia confirmed to Sherdog.com
Tuesday evening.
The
deal puts an end to any discussion of Vitale fighting Riki Fukuda
on the Showtime-televised EliteXC card in Honolulu on Sept. 15.
"We
tried to take as professional a course as we could during negotiations,"
said Pavia, who spoke with ProElite about a deal for Vitale since
June. In the end, the manager indicated the K-1/Strikeforce offer
was more attractive for Vitale because the agreement yielded
"more money and provides international exposure."
Vitale
is expected to appear on either the Sept. 17 K-1 HERO'S card
in Yokohama, Japan, or Sept. 29's Strikeforce event at the Playboy
Mansion in Los Angeles.
Source: Sherdog
|
Latest
quarterly report from Pro Elite Inc.
Here are the links:
Form
10QSB for Pro Elite, Inc.
Full
10QSB filed with the SEC
Cash
and cash equivalents as of June 30, 2007 was $3,953,778. Additionally,
on July 12, 2007, we received net proceeds of $20.2 million from
a private placement of our common stock. Our cash and cash equivalents
are expected to be sufficient to execute the next 18 months of
our three year business plan. As such, we continue to seek additional
financing. If we are unable to raise sufficient additional financing,
our growth may be limited. There can be no assurances that we
will be able to raise sufficient financing on favorable terms
and conditions. Management believes that we currently have sufficient
cash and cash equivalents to finance our current operations for
the next twelve months.
I’ll
let those smarter on the financial side of things analyze these
reports in the comments section. One thing - read the part about
bad accounting practices at hand. Unbelievable.
Source: Fight Opinion
|
WANDERLEI
SILVA SIGNS WITH THE UFC
Former Pride Champion to Make Return to the UFC in December
By FCF Staff
The official Ultimate Fighting Championship website is reporting
that former Pride Middleweight Champion, Wanderlei Silva, has
signed with the promotion and will make his return to the UFC
in December. The announcement ends the rumors that have surrounded
Silva more recently, in particular, rampant speculation focusing
on whether or not the Chute Boxe fighter would face Chuck Liddell
at UFC 76 next month. Silva, who is currently in the midst of
relocating to the U.S., made several public statements stating
he would prefer to begin his UFC return later this year. Keith
Jardine will now face Liddell on September 22nd, while Silva
has apparently got his wish, and will begin fighting for the
UFC again near the end of 2007. Silva last fought for the organization
back in 2000 at UFC 25, where he lost by Unanimous Decision to
Tito Ortiz. According to the report by UFC writer, Thomas Gerbasi,
the promotion’s President Dana White referred to the signing
as the “pinnacle” of his 7 year career with the company.
Silva,
or “The Axe Murder” as he is often called, will head
to the Octagon with a record of 31-7-1. Although the Brazilian
fighter has lost 3 of his last 5 fights, against notable opposition
in Ricardo Arona, Dan Henderson and Mirko Filipovic, he still
remains one of the sports most feared and highly regarded fighters.
FCF’s 5th ranked light-heavyweight hold’s two wins
over current UFC 205 lb. champ, Quinton Jackson, and also in
turn holds victories over Arona and Henderson.
No
exact date or opponent has yet been confirmed for Silva’s
UFC return.
Source: FCF
|
Ralek
Gracie Fighting MMA for 2nd Time.
K-1 just announced that Minowaman will face Ralek Gracie at the
HERO’s 9/17 Yokohama Arena show. Also on the 9/17 Yokohama
card is JZ Calvan vs. Vitor “Shaolin” Ribiero and Black
Mamba vs. Kaoru Uno in Middleweight tournament matches.
Source: Fight Opinion
|
Silva-Liddell
could happen in December
Wanderlei Silva is eyeing a December 29 date for his return to
the UFC, says the official Xtreme Couture MMA blog.
Silva,
who recently moved from Brazil to open a school in America, said
he wants to finally give fans the Silva-Chuck Liddell fight that
they have been waiting anxiously for years.
The
31-year-old Brazilian is currently at the Fizogen-Xtreme Couture
in Wellington, Florida to help prepare UFC heavyweight champion
Randy Couture for his UFC 74 fight against Gabriel Gonzaga.
"It’s
great to have him in the gym. I’m anxious to pick his brain.
To explore his training tactics and techniques," Couture
told his training center's blog. "I’m also looking
forward to building a rapport with him going forward."
December
29 is the date of UFC 79 at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, where
Matt Serra will be making his first welterweight title defense
against former champ Matt Hughes.
Kyle
Maynard denied a license
The
Georgia Athletic and Entertainment Commission has voted unanimously
to reject Maynard's application to compete in a mixed martial
arts event in Georgia. Maynard was born without hands, forearms,
or feet. [Continue Reading]
Rory
Markham off IFL Team Finals
The
IFL has removed Silverbacks' Rory Markham from its World Team
Championships Finals lineup. Markham will not recover from a
hand injury in time to fill his welterweight position on the
Quad Cities squad against Delson Heleno of the New York Pitbulls.
Sergio
Gomez featured on TapouT
Tonight's
new episode of TapouT focuses on Sergio Gomez out of Dave Strasser's
Freestyle Academy during his training for May 12's WEC 27. Gomez
is struggling to juggle his day job along with meeting the demands
of being a fighter. TapouT airs every Wednesday at 10pm ET on
Versus.
Justin
Levens to fight Kenny Ento for PFC title
The
Palace Fighting Championship (PFC) has announced that Justin
Levens will face Kenny Ento for the promotion's middleweight
belt. This will be former IFL Condors member Levens' first of
three fights with the PFC. [Continue Reading]
Four
title bouts scheduled for Battle Cage Xtreme II
Team
Sports and Entertainment is bringing "Battle Cage Xtreme"
(BCX) to Atlantic City's Boardwalk Hall with a 16-bout card,
including these four title fights: Carlos Moreno vs. Chris Volo
for the USKBA heavyweight title, Brian Demuro vs. Tom Gallicchio
for the USKBA middleweight title, Cory Laplant vs. Kevin Roddy
for the BCX lightweight title and Matt Zaccaria vs. Steve D'Angelis
for the BCX featherweight title.
Source: MMA Fighting
|
Henderson
unhappy to go to UK
The American still dreams of popularity in the USA
On September 8th, Dan Henderson will have one of the greatest
challenges of his career: to face Quinton Jackson, current champion,
for the UFC light heavyweight title. Nevertheless, what was a
reason for extreme happiness is more of a let down for the current
Pride middleweight champion. That is because the battle with
Rampage will take place on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean,
more specifically London. An established name in the Land of
the Rising Sun, Hendo is still fighting for the recognition of
his compatriots.
“I
have to admit I was disappointed to hear I would fight in London.
I am famous in Japan but nobody knows me in my own country. I
was hoping to fight here (USA)," said the fighter in an
interview with MSNBC.com.
Putting
aside the location for UFC 75, Henderson knows the importance
of the coming bout: “It is the greatest fight of my career,
the chance for me to become an undisputed champ in MMA.”
Not
even Quinton Jackson’s knock out of Chuck Liddell scares
him “He “Jackson” has some flaws in his game and
I can take advantage of them. He didn’t seem too be doing
too well in his last couple of fights,” he finished.
Source: Gracie Magazine
|
Quote
of the Day
"If
you're going to play the game properly, you'd better know every
rule."
Barbara Jordan, 1936-1996, American Politician
|
Leland
Chapman, Dog the Bounty Hunters Son in his Pro MMA Debut
Also
making history is Mia St John making her MMA Pro Debut along
with none other then Leland
Chapman, Dog the Bounty Hunters Son in his Pro MMA Debut.
Additionally,
a fight many will be dubbing as one of the most anticipated events
in 2007, Keith KO Berry, KOTC Light HeavyWeight Champion will
face off against the AKA Academy Bad Boy Matt Major who is hungry
and ready to prove yet again, he has the skills to compete.
Other
matches that are currently being signed, Jeff Munson, Vernon
Tiger White, Kimo, James Thompson and the return to California
sanctioned fighting Dan Severn, Zane Frasier, Brian Pardoe, Bo
Cantrell, Krazy Horse, Jake Hatten, Gabe Ruediger, Vince Lucero,
Gabe Rivas, Shawn Bias ,Shawn Klarzyck, and more over 15 total
fights.
Tickets
can be purchased at Ticketmaster for this event at www.ticketmaster.com
and start as low as just $15.
Source: Gracie Fighter
|
Warriors
Realm 10: Hawaii vs. Australia Results
By John on August 13, 2007
BJ Penn’s
team, led by Albert “Always Bad” Manners, traveled to the Gold
Coast from their home in Hawaii to face two local heroes at Warriors
Realm 10 last Saturday night. The much anticipated visit of BJ
never eventuated due to other commitments, but the knowledge
that Moreno and Manners trained with the great man in Hawaii
was enough to set the crowd on edge, the venue filled with that
mixture of anticipation and apprehension that always precedes
big fights.
Manners
set the tone by living up to his nickname. He stared down Daniel
Lima at the introductions for all the fighters and made his bad
intentions known to all by gesticulating aggressively in his
opponent’s direction, all the while keeping up a steady
verbal accompaniment on the subject of Lima’s (negligible)
chances of escaping the hexagon unharmed. Lima, originally from
Brazil but now fighting out of Queensland, seemed to take it
all with good humor, although he appeared somewhat surprised
by such an overt display of pre-fight aggression. Time would
reveal whether Manners could back up the talk; one thing was
certain – Lima, as ever, had come to fight. For his part,
Moreno took a more subdued approach, he and Pang sizing each
other up in silence, making their final mental preparations for
the coming onslaught.
Albert
Manners (USA)
v Daniel Lima (AUS) U60kg: Manners, hyped up by his pre-fight
histrionics and the resounding welcome given to Lima, charged
out of his corner determined to make it a short night’s
work. A fluid swinger in the way of his mentor BJ, he threw hard
punches and spectacular kicks, each one a potential fight finisher.
Lima did his best to withstand the attack, but his lack of reach
and a deficit in speed proved to be insurmountable obstacles
as Manners beat him to the punch every time, eventually driving
him back to Lima’s own corner. A right uppercut from Manners
put Lima down. Reigning kicks and punches on his prone opponent,
Manners went in to finish, ending up in Lima’s half guard
as Lima operated in survival mode. Catching Manners’ left
leg and shaping to apply a leg lock, Lima forced his opponent
to scramble out, and the breathing space allowed Lima to regain
his feet. Manners early confidence was looking well placed as
he continued the onslaught. Lima then managed to catch his opponent’s
left foot as Manners attempted a front kick. In an extraordinary
escape attempt, Manners leapt into the air and attempted a spinning
back kick with his right heel, Lima all the while keeping hold
of Manners’ left leg. The kick missed Lima’s head narrowly,
and Lima used his grip to put Manners on his back where he worked
from the guard as Manners made a weak attempt at a triangle choke.
The fight was stood up, and Manners continued to dominate on
the feet, catching his opponent with a huge left hook that snapped
Lima’s head back with its ferocity. Incredibly, Lima stood
his ground and rather than wilting under the relentless pressure,
fired back and drove Manners to the cage. Lima then controlled
Manners against the cage and the seconds ticked away to end a
dramatic first round.
The
second round started with Manners continuing to swing fight-ending
shots. However, fatigue taking its toll, his accuracy was beginning
to suffer and his punches became wilder and more desperate. If
this fight were going to end in Manners’ favor it would
have to be soon. Lima seemed to sense that the momentum was shifting,
and he was able to stay out of the way of the worst of his opponent’s
shots. Manners retreated and Lima again controlled him against
the cage, taking the tiring Manners down, first working from
the guard and then, regaining his feet, launching hard kicks
at his prone opponent. Lima then fell on Manners and worked for
side control. With no advancement being made by either party,
the fight was stood back up. Now it was Manner’s turn to
be on the receiving end of some powerful striking, but his greatest
enemy was fatigue, and he backed away whenever possible, breathing
hard, hands down around his waist, firing wild shots only when
Lima went on the attack. Lima again tied him up against the cage,
now finding more openings for body shots and knees. His punches
to the head also began to find their mark and Manners, his back
to the cage, struggled to hold on as the battering twisted him
left and right. Suddenly Manners reeled back and sat on the canvas,
blinking hard and informing the referee that he had been poked
in his left eye. The referee called time and Manners’ corner
entered the ring. As Lima watched calmly from a neutral corner,
the discussions between the referee, Manners and Manners’
corner continued. For a brief while it looked as though Manners
would not be able to go on and the crowd voiced their disapproval.
Manners eventually regained his feet, and the respite appeared
to have been to his advantage, as his hands returned to their
rightful position protecting his chin and his punches lost some
of their wildness. The second round wound down with little further
incident.
The
third round opened with Manners looking even more refreshed;
it wouldn’t last. Manners punches having lost their ability
to intimidate, Lima attacked with confidence and pushed him against
the cage where he landed hands and knees. Now Manners was back
on the deck again, claiming to be the victim of a low blow. Getting
back to his feet, he remonstrated loudly with Lima, and the referee
struggled to keep Manners under control. Again Manners corner
entered the ring and again the fight was delayed. When the action
restarted, Lima continued to control all elements of the bout
and Manners, low on conditioning but high on determination fought
on, no real chance of winning now, fighting for pride. There
was another break to adjust Manners’ cup, which the referee
noticed had become dislodged. This was too much for the crowd.
They howled in deafening derision, outraged at yet another respite
for Manners as his corner worked for too long on repositioning
the cup, the crowd fully aware that these interruptions were
diminishing Lima’s chances of putting his opponent away.
The war re-commenced and Lima became more confident, launching
a Sakuraba-like leaping kick to his prone opponent on two occasions
as the seconds ticked down to the end of the fight.
The
controversy was not over. Lima was awarded a unanimous decision,
but Manners seemed to think that he has been on the receiving
end of some dubious tactics, and rejected Lima’s attempts
at reconciliation. The crowd again voiced their disapproval and
it looked like this ugly end would be the defining moment of
Warriors Realm 10. All was made right by Manners though, who
later returned to the ring of his own volition and apologized
for his actions. This time the crowd applauded, and it is hoped
that he will return to fight another day, perhaps next time bringing
enough cardio to allow him to showcase his skills over three
rounds.
Dave
Moreno (USA)
v Adrian Pang (AUS) U65kg: The final international fight of the
night saw Pang and Moreno circling each other to start the first
round, trading cautious kicks and punches before Moreno got a
single leg takedown on Pang and worked from his guard. He wasn’t
able to advance his position substantially, and Pang was able
to regain his feet relatively unscathed. Working with his back
to the cage, Pang again became the victim of a single leg takedown,
and now Moreno worked in the half guard as the round ended.
The
second round began and Moreno launched a kick that allowed Pang
to grab his leg and deposit Moreno on his back. Moreno defended
himself with upkicks and Pang swung hard punches over the top,
wide and long, before falling into Moreno’s guard. Pang
was not able to do much damage though as Moreno defended well,
controlling Pang’s head and preventing him from rising up
to drop hard shots. The fight was stood up and Pang got underhooks
and took down Moreno down, the round ending with Pang in Moreno’s
guard.
Moreno
took Pang down early in the final round and landed a hard right
elbow that opened a cut above Pang’s left eye. The action
was halted to have the cut examined and then re-started with
the fighters in the same position. The cut was ominous for Pang,
and he was desperate to end the fight early. Pang managed to
sink in an arm triangle choke from the bottom but was again forced
to stand and have his cut examined. The action resuming from
the same position, he continued to work the choke and Moreno,
finding escape impossible, was forced to tap at 2:38 of the third
round. Overall this was a professional, clinical display from
Pang, who did not panic under duress.
Warriors
Realm 11 is scheduled to return to the Gold Coast in early November.
Here
are all the results for WR 10:
FIGHT
1: Winner - Korey Gibson (Rear Naked Choke) at 4:21 of Round
1 against Jason Harris
FIGHT
2: Winner - Ian Bone (Rear Naked Choke) at 1:36 of Round 1 against
Jim Taylor
FIGHT
3: Winner - Mick Mortimer (Split Decision) at 5:00 of Round 2
against Taka Kitahara
FIGHT
4: Winner - Bernardo Magalhaes (Unanimous Decision) at 5:00 of
Round 2 against Jai Bradney
FIGHT
5: Winner - Matt Cain (Armbar) at 1:35 of Round 3 against Jon
Valuri
FIGHT
6: Winner - Daniel Lima (Decision) at 5:00 of Round 3 against
Albert
Manners
FIGHT
7: Winner - Damon Mc Clure (Triangle Choke) in Round 1 against
Jeff King
FIGHT
8: Winner - Adrian Pang (Arm Triangle Choke) at 2:38 of Round
3 against Dave
Moreno
Source: MMA Fighting
|
Freedom
Fighting "Battle on the Base"
New MMA event Freedom Fighting "Battle on the Base"
will be making it's debut on October 27th at the Kahunas Ballroom
at MCBH. Freedom Fighting will primarily be a military base promotion
touring the likes of Schofield, Hickam AFB and MCBH to show our
appreciation to the troops. All shows will be open to the public.
Freedom Fighting is currently looking for pro/am prospects and
can reach Mike Malone @723-0960. All sponsorship and advertising
inqueries can reach Yogi @428-7707
Freedom Fighting would like to thank it's sponsors
*Budweiser
*WarriorWear Clothing
*Sindication
*RedBull
*Kikskin
And of course Onzuka.com
Source: Freedom Fighting
|
Final
stretch for the Worlds
Record number of participants about to be broken
Anyone that hasn’t yet signed up needs to get on the stick.
Sign-ups for the 2007 Jiu-Jitsu World Championship, to take place
from the 23rd to 26th of August, in the California State University
Long Beach gymnasium, end tomorrow night (midnight Los Angeles
time). According to the latest count done by GRACIEMAG.com, up
until last night the International Jiu-Jitsu Federation already
includes 1,330 registrees, thus only 52 more need to sign up
to break the record established in the 2006 Worlds, which took
place in the Tijuca Tennis Club, in Rio de Janeiro.
Among
the participants, 146 black belts are already guaranteed, and
many others will likely show up in the coming hours. “Folks
tend to leave signing up till the last minute. Everything is
in place to break the last record of sign-ups," states Marcelo
“Siriema” Araujo, IBJJF representative.
One
of those that should sign up as time runs out is Roger Gracie.
The three-time world champion of the super heavyweight division
and second place of the absolute in the last for Worlds arrives
in Los Angeles today, starving to win the title that has eluded
him.
To
bring even more to the table for the first edition of the event
to take place outside of Brazil, the Worlds organization promises
to inaugurate an electronic point system in the finals of the
black belt so the crowd will be better able to follow all the
emotion of the bouts among the greatest fighters of the gi wearing
world.
As
it could be no other way, GRACIE Magazine and GRACIEMAG.com will
be present for the 2007 Worlds and promises special coverage
so that you will miss nothing of the greatest competition of
the year. Stay tuned.
Source: Gracie Magazine
|
Rani
fights for WEC belt
Brazilian replaces Tapia, fights Beebe
Sitting
under-66kg ADCC champion, Rani Yahya may soon add another title
to his impressive resume. Information coming from the USA suggests
that the black belt will replace Manny Tapia in the bout against
Chase Beebe, current under-62kg WEC champ, on September 5th.
Beebe
(10-1), became champion as he beat former champion Eddie Wineland
by unanimous decision at WEC 26 last March. Rani, whose record
shows 11 wins and two losses, debuted in the American promotion
with a dazzling victory over the American Mark Hominick, who
was choked out in only 1:19min
Source: Gracie Magazine
|
Quote
of the Day
“The
guy who invented the first wheel was an idiot. The guy who invented
the other three, he was a genius.”
Sid Caesar, American Comic Actor and Writer
|
VILLASENOR
TALKS ABOUT HIS FIGHT AT ELITEXC
IN HAWAII
ON SEPTEMBER 15!
EliteXC premiered on the Showtime network in February of this
year and has since gone on to work various events with other
promotions. On September 15, the promotion returns to Showtime
with a fight card featuring some of the top fighters in the world.
The
main event features newly-crowned EliteXC Middleweight Champion
Murilo “Ninja” Rua making his first defense against
ICON Middleweight Champion Robbie Lawler.
The
portion of the undercard that is to be televised on Showtime
features bouts between Nick Diaz and Mike Aina, Renato “Charuto”
Verissimo and Jake Shields, and Gina Carano and Tonya Evinger.
The
undercard was also expected to feature a middleweight contenders’
bout between Falaniko Vitale and Riki Fukuda, but that was before
Vitale instead, according to Sherdog.com, accepted an offer to
fight for K-1 and Strikeforce.
In
the wake of Vitale’s exodus, Greg Jackson-trained fighter
Joey Villasenor has agreed to take the fight with Fukuda in the
hopes of getting a return match against either Ninja or Lawler,
both of whom he has lost to.
“I’d
like to fight both of them again, eventually. I’d like to
get a win against both of them and then have that rubber match.
Kind of like Roberto Duran and Sugar Ray Leonard, you know?”
said Villasenor.
But
before that happens, he isn’t looking past Fukuda. “He’s
gonna be tough. We’re just gonna prepare and go at it,”
commented Villasenor. “I’ve got five weeks to get ready
for the fight. But I’ve been working out [since the Ninja
fight in June]. I’ve been training, so the timing isn’t
too bad.”
For
Villasenor this fight is a little bit more than a pick-me-up
for himself following the loss to Ninja. Several other members
of the Jackson’s team have had a rough go of it in their
most recent fights as well. Nathan Marquardt lost in his UFC
title bid against Anderson Silva, Rashad Evans had a draw with
Tito Ortiz at UFC 73, and Keith Jardine was unexpectedly TKO’d
at the hands of Houston Alexander.
So,
Villasenor is looking to help right the ship, so to speak. “We’re
in a growing stage as a team. We’re a young team,”
says the 31 year old. “We’re going to learn from it
and get better because of it. We’re all going through this
together and it makes us all the more hungry.”
EliteXC:
Hawaii is scheduled for September 15 in Honolulu with a portion
of the fight card, including the main event, to air on the Showtime
premium channel and a portion of the undercard to stream live
on ProElite.com.
SHOWTIME
BOUTS
(10pm EST / Televised on Showtime)
Middleweight
Championship:
Murilo "Ninja" Rua vs. Robbie Lawler
Nick
Diaz vs. Mike Aina
Joey Villasenor vs. Riki Fukuda
Renato
"Charuto" Verissimo vs. Jake Shields
Gina Carano vs. Tonya Evinger
PROELITE.COM
BOUTS
(Following Showtime Telecast / Streamed on ProElite.com)
Jaw
Suk Kim vs. Brandon Wolff
Kala Kalohe
Hose vs.
Jeff Fox
Mark Oshiro vs. Nui Wheeler
Mark Kurano vs. Jose Diaz
PRELIMINARY
BOUTS
(9pm EST / Non-Broadcast)
Justin
Bucholz
vs. Kolo
Koka
Tyson Nam
vs. Albert
Manners
Source: MMA Weekly
|
SHAWN
TOMPKINS JOINS XTREME COUTURE
Shawn Tompkins has pulled up roots and is officially settling
down as a coach at Xtreme Couture in Las Vegas.
The
talented Muay Thai instructor and coach of the IFL’s Anacondas
has left training at other centers for the time being and will
now be an instructor at Couture’s gym instead.
Tompkins
has led his fighters to Xtreme Couture for some time now, but
as of this weekend after finishing moving into a new house, he
will be relocated to Las Vegas and help with instruction at the
gym.
The
IFL coach has most of his students already training at the gym,
but now the coach himself will be a fixture at Xtreme Couture
and should prove to be an excellent addition to some already
stellar trainers at the gym.
UFC
heavyweight champion Randy Couture commented on Tompkins’
presence at Xtreme Couture in a recent interview with MMAWeekly
Radio.
“Shawn
has stepped up and bought a house here and we got him on staff
at Xtreme Couture and he brings that Muay Thai background as
well as a very, very strong coaching background in mixed martial
arts, which is great for the guys. [He] puts all the pieces together
very, very well, so we’re excited to have him in the gym.”
With
this move, Xtreme Couture continues to add to an already impressive
list of coaches and fighters teaching and training at the gym.
Many see the training center as one of the top teams in the United
States for mixed martial arts.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
Shaolin:
“It will be not an anticipated final”
FEG
had announced yesterday that Vitor Shaolin will face Gesias Cavalcanti
at Hero’s GP semi final, that will be hold at September
17 at . “I had Gesias in my mind since July. They couldn’t
let a Brazilian final happen”, said Shaolin. Even though
appointed by Brazilian fans as a anticipated GP final, Shaolin
doesn’t have the same opinion. “It will be not an anticipated
final. A fight is a fight. I have my mind at this fight against
Gesias and after that I will think about the final”, said
the Nova União black belt.
In
the other semi final Caol Uno will face Black Mamba to see who
will face a Brazilian fighter at the main bout of Hero’s
GP. “It is impossible to know who is going to be more jaded
at the final. Everything depends of a kick, a punch, or a submitting.
The fight can go till the end of the third round or finish before
and the guy come rested to the final”, finished Shaolin.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
MONSON
READY FOR TWO FIGHTS IN TWO WEEKS
As far as tough, experienced heavyweight MMA fighters go, Jeff
‘The Snowman’ Monson is certainly among the top echelon
competing today.
As
a grappler, Monson has secured multiple victories in the Abu
Dhabi Submission Grappling World Tournament and has won impressively
at NAGA, Grapplers Quest and the Budweiser Invitational, a tournament
that he is still active in today.
With
an MMA record of 23-6 with 14 submissions, Monson has also proven
that he can take his ground skills well beyond a grappling tournament
and incorporate them successfully into an MMA fight as well.
‘The
Snowman’ is obviously an exceptional athlete who has a deep
desire for competition, but a large part of Monson’s success
also has to be attributed to the American Top Team (ATT), the
Florida-based fight club that Monson calls home. ATT hosts a
stable of fighters nearly unparalleled by any other gym in the
world, with fighters like Monson, Marcus Aurelio, Din Thomas,
Thiago Alves, Wilson Gouveia, Denis Kang and Jorge Santiago all
calling ATT their home-base.
On
September 1st, Monson will again have the chance to test his
skills in the ring when he steps up against gritty, hard-hitting
veteran Pedro ‘The Rock’ Rizzo. Monson will face Rizzo
for the IFA Heavyweight Championship in Dallas, Texas, in Sun
Sports Entertainment’s newest production, Art of War 3.
Rizzo
earned the IFA title by defeating former UFC title contender
Justin Eilers by Unanimous Decision in March of this year and
his upcoming fight with Monson will be his first opportunity
to defend his new belt.
In
a recent conference call with the media, ‘The Snowman’
spoke about his upcoming IFA title fight with Pedro Rizzo and
gave his thoughts on his lengthy MMA career, his preparation
for his upcoming fights and his recent training stint in England.
As
was already mentioned, Monson trains primarily at ATT in Florida,
but for this fight Jeff decided to mix it up a bit and try his
hand at training overseas in England.
Jeff
said, “I have been training here [in England] for a couple
of months to prepare for the fight. The training is the same
here in England; it is just a different environment. For one,
there is no cell phone ringing off the hook, so we can really
concentrate.
“I
am working on my boxing, which is a little bit of a change. As
far as conditioning and mat work, I am doing that as well, but
I am now focusing more on boxing than I have in the past.”
Monson
needs his boxing skills to be on par when he steps in to fight
the always-dangerous striker Pedro Rizzo, since Rizzo will no
doubt want to keep the fight on the feet for as long as he can.
Rizzo
is not only extremely talented, he also has faced a number of
top heavyweight fighters in his career, some of which include:
Randy Couture (twice), Sergei Kharitonov, Ricco Rodriguez, Josh
Barnett, Dan Severn, Kevin Randleman and Mark Coleman. With the
combination of experience levels in both Rizzo and Monson, fans
can likely expect a tenacious, though technical throw down when
these two MMA giants meet.
Jeff
said of his opponent, “Pedro is a great name and has fought
for the UFC title a couple of times. He is a hall-of-fame type
of guy, so I’m excited with the match up with him.”
Monson
has the scheduled title fight with Rizzo on September 1st, but
not before he fights Chris Guillen in the Global Fighting Championships
on August 17th. There is some speculation on whether or not Monson
will be able to fulfill both engagements, but Monson is confident.
“I
have fought back-to-back weekends before and to me I don’t
take one any lighter than the other. Hopefully the first one
will go well, and if it does, it gives me more preparation. I’m
planning on two fights, but I’m going to peak for this one
on the 17th and take a couple of days and then I will be back
in the gym working… but I will already be in good shape,”
Monson said.
Talking
with MMAWeekly Radio, Monson said he doesn’t really worry
much about being injured in the first fight. “Every time
you fight, there’s a risk of getting cut or some kind of
injury. But that can happen in training as well. It’s not
like I’m taking anyone lightly.”
Although
Monson is getting up in age as far as competitive combative sports
go, he believes that his time to shine is now.
“There
are so many young guys now and at 36-years-old I feel like the
elder statesmen. It [MMA] is so big now and they have long careers
ahead of them and I am on my last leg so to speak – but
I think I am in my prime.
“In
5 years they will still all be fighting and I won’t be.
When I was 25, I wasn’t as good as I am now and I wasn’t
prepared for this kind of environment,” Jeff said.
Since
Monson is older and wiser than some of the rookie fighters nowadays,
fans will likely see him employing a well-thought veteran’s
game plan when he faces Rizzo for the title.
Monson
has shown that he can and will submit almost any opponent he
faces if he gets the chance and Rizzo has proven time and time
again that he has both serious knockout power and superstar potential
if he only comes into the fight with the confidence to match.
When
the Dallas American Airlines Center opens for business on the
night of September 1st, one thing will be certain…two veteran
gladiators will be ready to butt heads in a ring and put their
celebrated reputations on the line.
But
there is even more at stake for Monson. Knowing that his career
is likely winding down, Monson would like to make a return to
the UFC, where he lost to Tim Sylvia in a heavyweight title fight
his last time in the Octagon.
“I
had an opportunity to go fight for them again [following the
Sylvia fight], but we’re the ones that opted out of the
contract to try and fight Fedor and that fell through,”
said Monson on MMAWeekly Radio.
“I
have a good relationship with the UFC and we’ve been talking
back and forth about fighting [in the UFC] after the Pedro fight.
A lot of people watch the UFC, that’s kind of where it’s
at. I’d love to be back in there.”
Before
he gets another shot in the UFC though, he will step in with
Chris Guillen on Saturday night and then Pedro Rizzo two weeks
later. Monson will definitely have to earn his return to the
Octagon.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
TEAM
REPORT: AMERICAN TOP TEAM
American Top Team continues to grow as one of the premier mixed
martial arts training camps in the world. From their home base
in Florida, ATT has one of the largest rosters of fighters and
many top contenders that continue to grow out of their camp,
as well as many new faces than seek out ATT for some of the best
training in all of MMA.
With
many fighters having upcoming bouts, MMAWeekly recently spoke
to representatives from American Top Team about much of their
top talent.
DENIS
KANG APPEARING SOON
One
of the most sought after middleweights in the world, Denis Kang,
is expected to sign with an organization soon and will hopefully
fight in September.
Kang,
who is the #6 middleweight in the MMAWeekly World MMA Rankings,
has been weighing many options since Pride was purchased by Zuffa
some months ago. It looks as though the 183lb Pride Grand Prix
runner-up is soon to fight a new home. Speculation has run rampant
lately about where he’ll end up, but the wait should be
over soon as an announcement should be coming any day now.
JEFF
MONSON TO FIGHT TWICE IN TWO WEEKS
American
Top Team heavyweight Jeff Monson has always been a very active
fighter, moving from grappling tournaments to mixed martial arts
bouts on a frequent basis. The one time UFC fighter is now set
to take on Chris Guillen at the Global Fighting Championships
this weekend and then he’ll move on to September 1st where
he’ll fight Pedro Rizzo for the Art of War heavyweight title.
“I
slowed down when I was with UFC because you can’t do that.
I have fought back-to-back weeks and to me I don’t take
one any lighter than the other and if it goes well, it gives
me more preparation,” said Monson about fighting two fights
so close together. “I will peak for this one on the 17th
and then I will be back in the gym working - but I will already
be in good shape.”
DIN
THOMAS TAKING ON KENNY FLORIAN
After
a staph infection took Spencer Fisher out of the main event of
the upcoming UFC Fight Night event, Din Thomas got quick word
that he will now face Kenny Florian instead.
Thomas
has been on a run since his appearance on the fourth season of
The Ultimate Fighter and the bout with Florian has fireworks
written all over it.
MELVIN
MANHOEF WORKING OUT AT ATT
Current
K-1 middleweight Melvin Manhoef is in Florida currently working
out with the fighters at American Top Team. Manhoef is expected
to stay with the team for a few weeks while he works on his overall
MMA game. In turn, Manhoef will help the rest of the team learn
from his vast striking background.
THIAGO
ALVES RETURNS
The
UFC welterweight division is already stacked and adding Thiago
Alves to the mix will only bolster an already impressive weight
class. Alves has been out since he defeated Tony DeSouza at UFC
66 in December due to testing positive for a banned diuretic
following the fight.
He
will look to return to top form against Japanese fighter Kuniyoshi
Hironaka at UFC Fight Night on September 19th.
GESIAS
“JZ” CALVANCANTI TAKES ON VITOR RIBEIRO
One
of the brightest up and coming lightweights in the world, Gesias
“JZ” Calvancanti will take the biggest step towards
proving he belongs among the top lightweights in the world when
he steps in to take on Vitor “Shaolin” Ribiero in September
as part of the K-1 154lb tournament. Many thought this would
be the finals match-up, but instead of taking chances, K-1 put
these two together in the semifinals instead.
Calvancanti
was dealing with an injury that kept him out of the first round
of the tournament, but he will return to take on the #6 lightweight
in the world in Vitor “Shaolin” Ribiero.
OTHER
ATT FIGHTERS WITH UPCOMING BOUTS:
-Jorge
Santiago will be on the Art of War show along with his teammates
when he takes on former UFC middleweight Jeremy Horn.
-Aaron
Riley will be featured in an IFL Superfight versus Ryan Schultz
during the upcoming IFL Finals show on September 20th in Florida.
-Gleison
Tibau travels to England to be a part of UFC 75 and faces up
and comer Terry Etim.
-Cole
Miller returns for the first time since The Ultimate Fighter
Finale to square off against Team Jackson lightweight Leonard
Garcia at UFC Fight Night on September 19.
-Mario
Rinaldi steps into the Art of War show as well, taking on Ron
Waterman in a super heavyweight bout.
-Kalib
Starnes has signed to fight at UFC 77 in Cincinnati against Alan
Belcher.
-Wilson
Gouveia is set to face Jason Lambert at UFC 76 in what should
be a great light heavyweight match-up.
-Marcus
“Maximus” Aurelio is just over a week away from making
his UFC debut against the always-tough Clay Guida in what could
end up being Fight of the Night for UFC 74.
-Steve
Bruno is currently dealing with injuries and will not be competing
in the near future but upon his return he has made it known he
wants a match-up in the UFC against former Pride lightweight
Hayato "Mach" Sakurai.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
Quote
of the Day
“Where
there is no vision, there is no hope.”
George Washington Carver, 1864-1943, American Botanist
|
Mike
Aina vs Nick Diaz at Icon!
On September 15th there will be a Team B.J Penn vs. Team Cesar
Gracie showdown. Penn's pick to face Jake Shields was Charuto
Verrisimo and now he has named B.J Penn team member, Mike Aina,
as his representative to face Nick Diaz.
This
will be Diaz's first fight back since defeating Takanori Gomi
and a subsequent suspension by the NSAC. He has kept busy with
his usual training schedule, including this past weekend's IronMan
triathlon event. The Ironman is a grueling 2.4 mile swim followed
by a 112 mile bike ride and then a 26 mile run. Diaz placed 3rd
in his age group.
Source: Gracie Fighter
|
COUTURE
WEIGHS IN ON HW DIVISION
Randy "The Natural" Couture takes on Gabriel Gonzaga
for the UFC Heavyweight Championship of the World next weekend
at UFC 74 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Couture weighed in on the current
state of the heavyweight division worldwide.
A
year ago mixed martial arts fans were complaining about the lack
of depth in the UFC heavyweight division. Since then we've seen
Mirko 'Cro Cop' Filipovic, Heath Herring and Antonio Rodrigo
Nogueira added to the roster, Randy Couture's return, and the
emergence of Gabriel Gonzaga.
"They
aren't making my job any easier are they, commented Couture about
the influx of talent brought in over the last several months.
He
added, "I came in and it was pretty much the Tim [Sylvia]
and Andrei [Arlovski] show for a long time there. Suddenly I
come out of retirement and these guys come out of the woodwork.
I was going, what the heck is going on? There's a lot of great
fighters in that weight division now. It was kind of not as deep,
and now it's one of the deepest weight classes. It makes it a
lot of fun for me to look at these guys and see how it's going
to shake out and what the next interesting match up might be.
There's certainly a lot of them. I don't want to look past Gabriel
Gonzaga. After that, we'll see what happens."
One
can not talk about the heavyweight division in mixed martial
arts without mentioning Fedor Emelianenko. Questioned about the
number one ranked heavyweight in the world, Couture replied,
"I don't know anybody who wouldn't want to fight him. He's
probably the best fighter in the world right now. We as fighters
want to be considered the best, and you've got to fight the best.
I've certainly admire his skill and admire his approach to our
sport. I think he's amazing to watch, and to get a chance to
fight a guy like that would be a dream. It would be awesome."
Questioned
who could become the next number one contender for the UFC heavyweight
title: Tim Sylvia, Nogueira, Mirko 'Cro Cop,' Andrei Arlovski,
or Brandon Vera? Randy answered, "Well, I think those are
some interesting fights. I think you're going to see Vera and
Tim Sylvia hook it up. Brandon Vera is going to get back in the
mix here. He's got some new management, so I think he's going
to be dealing with the UFC on a little more positive way. I think
that's a very interesting fight."
Continuing,
Couture said, "You've still go Arlovski, who in my opinion
is one of the best athletes in the heavyweight division sitting
out there. I think in a lot of ways is still recovering from
the fights with Tim. I just don't see him as aggressive and pulling
the trigger the way he was before getting knocked out by Tim.
I think if he figures that out he's still physically one of the
best guys in the weight class."
Addressing
Mirko 'Cro Cop' Filipovic, Couture commented, "He's got
a great fight with Cheick Kongo, who I was surprised to see get
beat in that last fight of his. I think whoever comes out of
that fight is certainly going to be in contention."
"Nogueira
had a rocky start. [Heath] Herring was on top of things. I thought
Herring had a great opportunity to finish him in that fight.
Nogueira being one of the toughest guys out there, I've seen
that guy take some shots. It's been pretty amazing. He managed
to recover and find a way to win," said Couture.
'The
Natural' went on to say, "Any one of those guys would be
great fights. It would just be interesting to sit back and see
how it all settles out."
"I
think the landscape in the heavyweight division keeps getting
tougher and tougher," said the current UFC heavyweight champ,
and that pretty much sums it up.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
Sperry
looking for a new life at USA
After
make a successful debut in England, at the Cage Rage 22, that
was hold at July 14 in London, where Sperry was well superior
than his opponent and showed a kid breath, taking down, passing
guard and taking back to submit in 1m39s with a rear naked choke
the English Lee Hasdell. Mario Spery tell us in a exclusive interview
to TATAME about his futures fights, about his IFL team and about
his moving to the US. “I received a few proposes and this
is a dream that I have since long time, to make a work here on
. I guess that this is the moment, It has to be now”, said
the Jiu-Jitsu black belt who is in agreeing the details for his
moving.
New life
By Marcelo Alonso
After
a good time out of the ring, how was the fight at the Cage Rage?
How was the adrenalin?
I
was a good time out of the ring, but I was confident, well trained,
relaxed. The adrenalin was normal, what I like most, is the vibration
of fight.
What
do you fell about English fans, making a comparative to Japanese
one?
The
Japanese fans are different than any other one. The English,
American, and even Brazilian are really close, they support the
house guys. And that what happen there, the crowd was only for
the guy, my opponent. But after I won the fight, they clap hands
and recognized my victory.
That
was your strategy for the fight?
The
strategy was finish quickly as possible the fight, to submit
the fight early, by knock out or submission. When the fight start,
I felt that he was waiting for a leg attack and this open another
way for me. He was with a low guard, I attack him and strike
him with a straight punch and a cross punch that took his face.
Then I went to the double-leg and he defends, but in the single
leg he fall. I was with a good ground game, well trained, so
I made my game and I let him make a mistake, I turned and got
his back and I trained that position a lot, so it was tight.
How
are the negotiations to your next fight? Did you start to talk
with the Cage Rage promoters?
Everything
was fast, because on the morning before the fight I leave. I’ll
wait things set down and keep in touch with then and others organizations
too. The people of EliteXC were there, the people of Bodog too
and let see if we can capitalize something after this victory.
I’ll keep training hard.
At
IFL, did you have already define your team?
I
didn’t because I still going to talk with the IFL president,
but we should make a presentation these year and start to fight
the league in 2008. I have a few names in mind, but the priority
is to make a team strong, to conquer the title.
You’re
moving to US? How was that, what motivates you?
I
received proposes and this is a dream that I have since a long
time, to make a work here on . I guess now is the right moment,
It has to be now. I have few proposes for a training center with
my name. The Bazilian Top Team keeps going, as always, and I
going to try a new project on , taking BTT as a model. Make a
training center where the excellence will be fight on the ground,
based on Jiu-Jitsu and Submission and we can work with MMA part,
but the main techniques will be Jiu-Jitsu and Submission.
You
know where at you will are going to live or your team name?
I
have no idea yet. I’ll stay down here for a couple of weeks
trying to resolve that. I going to talk with some peoples that
are making me some proposes, I’m going to four different
places. When I go back to I’ll chose the place and make
the project and I believe that I could be ready to start at September.
Source: Tatame
|
Father
not happy with last Paulão Filho performance
One
week before Father’s Day in , the most careful father from
Brazilian MMA, had everything to be radiant with the anticipated
present given by his son, on last Sunday, August 5. Mr. Paulinho
Leite, Paulão Filho’s father, even vibrating with
the conquest of the son in Las Vegas, . “I thing was a shit
performance. That wasn’t Paulão fighting!” said
an emotive careful father. “After his knee surgery, Paulão
was weighting 102kg. For this fight he lost 18kg in less than
two months. He fought anemic, he wasn’t strong enough and
pass 24 hours without eat. The red globe tax was lower. To worst
the things he isolated himself at Niterói and converted
to a church” comment Mr. Paulo Leite.
It’s
good to remember that Mr. Paulinho was essential at the beginning
of Paulão career. After convince his son to give up Karate
to practice BJJ and Judo, Mr. Paulinho, for more then ten years,
took his son to train by bus at Cube de Regatas Flamengo and
Carlson Gracie Academy . Even with this complains, Mr. Paulo
is very proud. “It was good because of the belt and he has
to thank his amazing boxing teacher, Distak, because octagon
was made for Boxing. BJJ fighter has serious problem to fight
in the cage”, comment Paulo’s father making a warning
for his son’s opponent “Paulão is a three times
BJJ Mundial champion and five times Brazilian champion. In normal
conditions, well fed, no one can stop him, even at 83kg category,
even less at 93kg category, were I like to see him fighting”
finalized Mr. Paulo Leite.
Source: Tatame
|
Miltinho
to fight at Pancrase
The
Brazilian Top Team (BTT) athlete, Miltinho Vieira is confirmed
to fight at next 5 September Pancrase event, which will be held
at Tokyo, . Miltinho wilçl face Fabricio Monteiro’s
executioner, Satoru Kitaoka, and assured that he is ready for
the fight. “I watch a little bit of his fight against Fabricio.
He is left hand, its something to worry a little. He has a high
kick with the left leg, but I’m ready to defend it and make
a counterattack. My Muay Thai is sharp as has never been…
it’s the new age of the slim guy here” said Miltinho,
who comes from a submission victory at Deep.
Source: Tatame
|
Quote
of the Day
“Perfection
is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we can catch excellence.”
Vince Lombardi, 1913-1970, Hall of Fame American Football Coach
|
Fighters'
Club TV Tonight!
Be sure
to tune in to the long anticipated new episode of FCTV tonight
at 7:00 PM on Channel 52.
We
preview the new Icon Sport Martial Arts and Fitness Center and
talk to their many instructors!
We
end the age old question of is it "Leeben or Layben"
for UFC Vet Chris Leben who is one of the head instructors at
Icon.
We
talk with local grappling star Rylan Lizares.
Lastly, we talk with the man behind the promotion and center,
T. Jay Thompson.
Make
sure you tell everyone that we are still on and on Channel 52
at 7:00 pm!
|
FLORIAN
SEES THOMAS AS STEP TOWARDS TITLE
Kenny Florian has officially been announced as the replacement
for Spencer Fisher in the main event of UFC Fight Night taking
place on September 19th in Las Vegas, where he will take on American
Top Team member Din Thomas.
Florian
joined MMAWeekly Radio just after the announcement to talk about
the fight and his decision to take the fight on short notice
for the opportunity to take on Thomas in a fight that could have
major implications on the UFC’s lightweight division.
Florian
took over for Spencer Fisher who had to drop out of the bout
due to a staph infection that has spread to numerous other members
of the Miletich camp where he trains.
“Unfortunately,
it came here because of bad news. Its obviously good news for
me, but what people forget is that Spencer Fisher is unable to
fight because he has staph (infection),” said Florian. “I
guess Miletich has a bad staph epidemic going on over there and
it looks like a bunch of fighters are going down, so first and
foremost I hope those guys stay safe and get healthy as soon
as possible.
“We
got a call from Joe Silva saying that it was possible that Spencer
wasn’t going to be able to fight and there was a serious
staph infection that he was dealing with and I wanted to step
up. I talked to the team and they allowed me to do it, they’re
the ones who really make the decisions at the end of the day
for me, but I really wanted this fight.”
Coming
off of a dominant victory at UFC 73 over Alvin Robinson, the
Boston native is excited to get back in the Octagon to take on
another top-notch opponent.
“I’m
hungry right now. Din’s a great fighter and I want to challenge
myself,” Florian stated in his interview with MMAWeekly
Radio. “I’m in a different situation than I was last
year before the Sherk fight. I’m actually healthy now, so
these are the things that I want. I want to be healthy so I can
take things like this every once in a while. It’s not something
I’m going to take all the time. I want to fight the best
and Din is one of the best.”
Din
Thomas is currently on a three fight win streak since the end
of The Ultimate Fighter season 4 in which he made his return
to the UFC.
Following
his fight at UFC 73, Florian made a strong statement about his
immediate future in the lightweight division and his desire to
work his way back into title contention.
“This
is the fight I wanted to get me half way back to the title and
after the Alvin Robinson fight, I wasn’t joking, I want
to fight the top guys and make sure there’s no one left
but me. I want to beat them all and I want to be the only contender
left to fight for that title. Din’s that next step,”
said Florian about the match-up with Thomas.
The
match-up pits two very evenly matched fighters, both hoping to
get on the fast track to a championship bout in the future. Florian
feels that this will be a tough fight for both men.
“This
fight is going to come down to a battle of wills,” said
Florian
Kenny
Florian will take on Din Thomas on September 19th in Las Vegas
at UFC Fight Night from the Palms Casino & Hotel as the lead-in
to the sixth season premiere of The Ultimate Fighter.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
UFC
FIGHTERS VISIT TROOPS IN AFGHANISTAN
Recently, a number of UFC fighters visited troops in Afghanistan
as part of a goodwill tour in support of the troops’ efforts
overseas. Two of the fighters, Heath Herring and Kenny Florian,
recently spoke to MMAWeekly Radio about the trip to visit the
troops and their experiences in Afghanistan.
“It
was awesome, one of the best experiences of my life to be honest
with you,” said Herring about the trip.
Herring
also spoke about the welcome and treatment the UFC fighters received
from the men and women fighting in Afghanistan.
“We
got the royal treatment; we had a great time. We got to go to
the Special Forces camp with all the green berets and work out
with those guys. We got to fly around in helicopters; I’m
telling you it was the time of my life,” said Herring.
Florian
echoed similar sentiments about the troops’ reaction to
the fighters visiting.
“They
were pumped. I mean the hardcore UFC fans couldn’t believe
we were there and they just freaked out. Some of these guys have
been out there for like 15 months without seeing anybody and
their living conditions are pretty rough.”
The
reality of the situation was also quick to set in on the fighters
who saw a very harsh war zone where American troops are literally
dying everyday. Florian spoke to MMAWeekly about the situation
in Afghanistan and the respect he has for the troops risking
their lives in the war.
“From
the moment you landed in Afghanistan you knew you were in a war
zone,” stated Florian. “I was flying around in Blackhawks,
flying around Afghanistan with the doors open and anyone would
be able to shoot you down. It puts things into perspective, these
guys put their lives on the line 24/7 and they’re on alert
all the time. It’s just inspiring, I mean think about all
the nerves you have going into the Octagon and these guys are
out in the field hunting down the Taliban or being hunted down
themselves. Its crazy out there; the job they’re doing is
amazing.”
Heath
Herring also spoke about the loss of life that they saw first
hand when visiting the troops overseas.
“Six
servicemen died while we were over there unfortunately and they
had what’s called ‘the fallen comrade ceremony’
which we were part of one. It kind of brings it home to you;
they’re risking their lives every day. It’s no joke,”
said Herring about the fallen troops.
Both
fighters seemed very appreciative to be able to do something
for the troops and Herring hopes to relive the experience again
in the future.
“I’d
really like the chance to go to Iraq to go hang out with the
servicemen over there,” said Herring. “I mean, how
many chances do you have to go over to Afghanistan, and not only
that, but how many times do you get to hang out with our servicemen
and tell them thanks for all the wonderful things they’ve
done. They’re not getting paid that much and they’re
doing a whole lot.”
Source: MMA Weekly
|
K-1
FIGHTERS WEIGHED IN FOR TONIGHT'S FIGHTS
The official weigh-ins for tonight's K-1 World Grand Prix '07
event in Las Vegas were held yesterday and all the fighters are
ready to go.
The
event, held at the Bellagio Hotel and Casino, is comprised of
an eight-man tournament format and three superfights.
The
official weights (courtesy of K-1):
TOURNAMENT
Tsuyoshi
Nakasako (Japan) 207lbs/94kg
Alexandre Pitchkounov (Russia) 226lbs/103kg
Rick
Cheek (USA) 255lbs/116kg
Imani Lee (USA) 310lbs/141kg
Rickard
Nordstrand (Sweden) 199lbs/90kg
Patrick Barry (USA) 232lbs/105kg
Esh'Chadar
Brown Ton (USA) 221lbs/100kg
Zabit Samedov (Belarus) 203lbs/92kg
SUPERFIGHTS
Stefan
Leko (Germany) 215lbs/98kg
Mighty Mo (USA) 299lbs/136kg
Bjorn
Bregy (Switzerland) 279lbs/127kg
Ray Sefo (New Zealand) 250lbs/113kg
Petr
Vondracek (Czech Republic) 238lbs/108kg
Ariel Mastov (Israel) 205lbs/93 kg
UNDERDOG
WINS BELLAGIO K-1 TOURNEY
LAS VEGAS, August 11, 2007 -- Doug Viney came to the Bellagio
Hotel and Casino carrying his own bags, inconspicuous in an entourage
that included K-1 superstar Ray Sefo and World Grand Prix Tournament
favorite Alexandre Pitchkounov. Viney had a minor role to play,
he was slotted for the tournament reserve bout -- an undercard
contest that takes place while the house lights are half on and
the stands are half empty, long before pyrotechnics and music
trumpet the "elite" fighters' arrival. But when the
night was over, Viney was standing center stage with the tournament
trophy and a spot in next month's K-1 WGP Final Elimination in
Seoul. It is an understatement to say that this was one hell
of an achievement for Doug Viney.
Doug
who?
Viney,
32, was born in Auckland. He had only five amateur bouts to his
name when he first fought professionally in 2001. In 2004, Viney
represented New Zealand, in a losing cause, in Super Heavyweight
Boxing at the Athens Olympics. Five weeks ago, he began training
with Ray Sefo, whom he has known since he was a teen. "We
worked a lot on the basics," said Sefo after Viney's victory.
"Tonight Doug proved what he can do, and this is just the
beginning!"
Viney's
road to victory started with a 2nd round TKO of American fighter
Mahmoud Fawzy the reserve fight.
"I
expected to have one fight," said Viney, "and winning
that was awesome. But what happened afterward was bloody marvelous!"
First
up in tournament action was Viney's sparring partner, karate
stylist Alexandre Pitchkounov of Russia. At fight time Pitchkounov
was the favorite to win it all, sitting at 8/5 on the Bellagio
Sports Book odds board. His opponent was Tsuyoshi Nakasako of
Japan, the longshot at 25/1.
Pitchkounov
controlled the distance well throughout, snapping in low, front
and middle kicks and making good contact with the left straight
punch. Nakasako fired in the fists in the second, but Pitchkounov
was better on the counters, and caught the Japanese fighter in
the face with a front kick before scoring a down with a left
hook. The pair stayed inside through much of the third, Pitchkounov
picking his spots and getting the better of Nakasako to take
the fight by comfortable unanimous decision and advance to the
semifinals.
Ranked
second on the odds board, at 3/1, was former American Armed Forces
Heavyweight Boxing Champion "Savage" Rick Cheek. To
get anywhere in this tournament Cheek first had to get past the
formidable Imani "Juggernaut" Lee, also a former heavyweight
boxer, and the biggest fighter in the tournament at 141kg/310lbs.
A
good first round in this bout, both men pushing with low kicks
and jabs, Cheek showing superior evasions and combinations, Lee
surprisingly technical and quick for his size. The second saw
Cheek dancing and circling, flying in a knee; and Lee powering
in a left hook or two to keep it close. A Cheek spinning back
punch smacked Lee across the lip, and Cheek also put a left straight
through -- but the durable Lee was not fazed, and kept tossing
in the low kicks. Lee came out fast in the third, chasing his
opponent with the fists. Midway through, after taking an innocent-looking
right punch to the midsection, Lee bent forward in pain, motionless
in the center of the ring. Cheek leapt in with a knee that mercifully
missed before the referee stepped in to call the fight for Cheek.
Lee protested, but Cheek had the win and trip to the semis.
The
third quarterfinal featured a couple of muay thai fighter --
American Patrick Barry, fresh from a stint in Amsterdam training
with the legendary Ernesto Hoost; and Rickard Nordstrand of Sweden.
The
smallest fighter in the tournament at 90kg/199lbs, Nordstrand
nevertheless brought a lot of spirit to this thrilling bout.
An early Barry left high kick sent the Swede to the canvas --
some saw a slip, but the referee issued a count. Behind on points,
Nordstrand fired in a bunch of low kicks and stung Barry's left
leg. But the American's superior power and low kicks took their
toll on Nordstrand. Barry showed excellent technique, focus,
blocking and balance, evading Nordstrand's knees on several occasions.
Barry won it in the second when a low kick put Nordstrand down
past the count.
The
last of the quarterfinals saw two more muay thai fighters mix
it up. Belorussian Zabit Samedov, who at 23 was youngest in the
tournament, met Esh'Chadar Brown Ton of the United States.
Fast-paced
action here, Samedov the more aggressive and confident fighter,
getting the better stuff through. Brown Ton had his chances,
but inexperience at this level of competition handicapped the
Texan. Brown Ton's face was bloodied in the first, and he went
down from a barrage of body blows at the clapper. Bravely, the
American answered the bell to start the second, even as ringside
officials were checking the cut on his face. Samedov chased his
opponent, spinning in a rear heel hick to the midsection to put
Brown Ton down for good. A full-throttle effort from the Belorussian,
and a trip to the semis.
Viney
got into the tournament when Rick Cheek could not continue due
to a leg injury sustained in his bout with Lee. Under K-1 tournament
rules, Viney was parachuted into the tournament to face Alexandre
Pitchkounov.
"I
only had about 10 minutes notice," said Viney, "and
I was didn't really want to fight with Alex because he trains
in the same camp as me. My brain was 50/50."
But
the shot at glory is what every reserve fighter dreams of, so
Viney stepped into the ring. The Kiwi was measured but able in
his attacks early on, firing in occasional low and high kicks,
denying Pitchkounov his distance and coming in quickly with sharp
counters. By the bell Pitchkounov's nose was bloodied and he
had not landed a single solid blow -- a great start for Viney.
The
pace slowed in the second, but for a couple of punching exchanges
midway through, with Viney putting through the better stuff.
Pitchkounov landed a promising knee, but Viney stayed mobile
and out of harm's way, ducking and blocking and repeatedly stepping
in with straight punches and low kicks. A unanimous decision
for Viney, and a trip to the final.
The
second semi was a power-on-power showdown between Patrick Barry
and Zabit Samedov. A fast start with the boys closing hard --
head-to-head, pumping the fists. Samedov scored with a hard straight
punch before Barry got a high kick up, which Samedov answered
with some Ray Sefo-style taunting. In the second both had chances,
Barry working low kicks and a good overhand right, Samedov smart
with his footwork and movement, scoring from inside with body
blows and an uppercut. The third saw crowd favorite Barry looking
confident, blocking or evading Samedov's high kicks, countering
well with low kicks. A split decision which the crowd did not
at all like -- the win and trip to the finals going to Samedov.
And
so we had the Viney the reserve fighter and Samedov the youngster
in the final.
Viney
looking good with his meat-and-potatoes punching attacks, while
Samedov, confident to the point of cockiness, went with style
and creativity. Viney opened with two hard low kicks, then a
right hook that made partial contact. An aggressive Samedov launched
a high kick but this was blocked. Viney showed good focus and
timing to rattle Samedov with a right straight punch here. In
the second Samedov blocked a Viney high kick and countered with
a solid low kick and right hook, as the Belorussian's footwork
evolved to dancing and taunting. A hard low kick came late in
the round, which Samedov won on all cards.
But
Samedov, who was battling the flu, appeared to be tiring. In
the third Viney got the fists going, and although Samedov connected
with a handsome left hook, Viney was countering well, threading
in a right straight punch and simply outworking his opponent.
It was close. Samedov later said he was sure he'd won; and the
crowd wanted another round. But the judges had seen enough to
give it to Viney by the slimmest of unanimous decisions.
"To
fight at this level, with these guys, is a dream," said
Viney afterward. "I feel now that if I continue to train
properly, focusing on myself, I can take on the world!"
In
the card's Superfights:
Ray
"Sugarfoot" Sefo of New Zealand has made Las Vegas
his home for the last year. Tonight, the 36 year-old slugger
played host to Bjorn Bregy of Switzerland. A karate stylist,
the 6'8"/203cm Bregy won the K-1 Europe GP in Amsterdam
last year.
A
tentative first, with both men testing -- Sefo with low kicks,
Bregy using his long reach to tag with the jab, putting up a
hard high kick which Sefo blocked. Frequently, Sefo closed with
one-two footwork and left jabs, looking to work the hook or uppercut
from inside, but was stymied by Bregy's evasions. A couple of
Sefo punch and high kick combinations started the second, and
the Kiwi made partial contact with a spinning back kick. Bregy
was able to control distance though, and but for a brief series
of body blows Sefo still could not close to effect. Bregy glanced
a right high kick off Sefo's chin in the third, and got a decent
knee up from the clinch. A flurry of Sefo punches late in the
fight were not enough to even things up, and Bregy notched the
upset win by split decision.
"It
was a good decision," said Bregy, "He was really strong,
which surprised me, but I know I did a good job."
Said
Sefo: "I don't want to cry over spilled milk, but I hoped
he'd stand and trade. Instead he was always running away, he
looked like a 100 meter sprinter!"
In
the penultimate Superfight, German kickboxer Stefan Leko -- whose
straight punch KO of Peter Aerts at the Bellagio made the ESPN
year-end sports highlight reel in 2001 -- took on American powerhouse
Mighty Mo, a big fellow with one heck of a right hook.
Leko
started with a spinning back kick and spent most of the first
throwing low kicks. Mo led with the left jab, pushing forward,
finally throwing the right hook late in the round, missing but
following with a left that made partial contact. Leko brought
the spinning back kick again in the second, otherwise it was
mostly low kicks from the German. With his guard high, Leko did
not present much of a target for Mo's right, and met the American
with low kicks and the clinch when he attempted to close. Mo
threw low kicks throughout, but these did not appear to bother
Leko at all. Mo did land some fists in the third, but Leko was
better with a spinning back kick and a few good straight punches
of his own. Mo pushed repeatedly with the left but his power
potential was never realized, and the judges gave the fit and
quick Leko a unanimous decision.
The
third Superfight featured Petr Vondracek of the Czech Republic
and Ariel Mastov of Israel. A spunky Mastov downed Vondracek
early with a right, and after resumption planted a dandy spinning
kick to keep the pressure on. Vondracek got the upper hand in
the second, landing a high kick and a couple of straight punches
then chasing his opponent with a hook for the equalizer. Vondracek
wanted to overwhelm Mastov here but the Israeli showed he could
take a lot of punishment, and was able to mount creative attacks
on the counter. In the third Vondracek had the textbook one-two
punch and low kick combinations working, but Mastov again showed
flexibility, doing well with body blows and stunning his opponent
with a series of overhand rights. Vondracek looked tired and
Mastov exploited a defensive lapse, spinning in a heel kick to
the midsection to drop the Czech fighter, who could not beat
the count. The crowd loved this one.
All
fights were conducted under K-1 Rules (3Min. x 3R with a possible
tiebreaker).
The
K-1 World Grand Prix '07 in Las Vegas attracted a sellout crowd
to the Bellagio Grand Ballroom. It was broadcast in Japan on
the Fuji TV network, with rebroadcasts set for a total of 135
countries.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
Quote
of the Day
"You're
never beaten until you admit it."
George S. Patton, 1885-1945, American Army General during World
War II
|
Fighters
Journey
MANOA GRAND
BALLROOM
IN THE JAPANESE CULTURAL CENTER
AUG. 31, 2007
145lb
Amateur MMA
Jesse Castillo (808 Figt Factory) v
Van Shiroma (HMC)
185lb
Amateur MMA
Joshua Lindsey (Anmial House) v
Carl Barton (HMC)
155lb
Amateur MMA
Rob Carlyon (HMC) v
Keoni Diggs (808 Fight Factory)
145lb
Amateur MMA
Cory Nemoto (Team Kritikul) v
Paul Lopes (Jesus is Lord)
130lb
Amateur MMA
Sam Quel (Team Ruthless) v
Joseph Benevente (808 Fight Factory)
145lb
Amateur MMA
Jeremy Kubo (Team Kritikul) v
Colin Mackenzie (Team Ruthless)
155lb
Amateur MMA
Garren Mouser (Animal House) v
Jeff Thome (BJ Penn Academy)
165lb
Amateur MMA
Cheyne Todani (808 Fight Factory) v
Eugene Ige (Anmial House)
175lb
Amateur MMA
Ray Tintor (Freelance) v
Ryan Desoto (Team Ruthless)
170lb
Amateur MMA
Zane Kamak (Guts and Glory) v
Micah Ige (Animal House)
145lb
Amateur MMA
David Balicao (Jesus is Lord) v
Jon Barnard (Team Ruthless)
185lb
Pro MMA
Bob Ostovich (Jesus is Lord) v
Tyson Primm (Team Submit)
137lb
Pro MMA
Jay Bolos (Animal House) v
Peni Taufa'ao (Eastsidaz)
155lb
Pro MMA
Duke Saragosa (808 Fight Factory) v
Dean Lista (HMC)
170lb
Pro MMA
Ramon Franco (Kailua Jiu Jitsu) v
Daniel Devers (808 Fight Factory)
145lb
Pro MMA
Brandon Pieper (Jesus is Lord) v
145lb
Pro MMA
Tony Giraldi (No Mercy) v
Zach Rapal (Fighters Union)
255lb
Pro MMA
Deutsch Puu (Freelance) v
Thomas Rosser (808 Fight Factory)
Tickets
go on sale Aug 10. getem at Watchchaback in windward mall,
Adrenaline Koncepts, TCA Wireless in Waipahu, and Jesus is Lord
gym
Source: The Tan Superman
|
GURGEL
RETURNS AT UFC 77 IN CINCINNATI
Jorge Gurgel is returning to the Octagon after suffering a broken
jaw in his last fight to take on Doug Evans at UFC 77 in Cincinnati,
Ohio as reported by Gurgel on his MySpace blog.
“To
all my fans I would like to announce that I will be fighting
Doug Evans at the UFC in Cincinnati on October the20th. It’s
a great honor to finally be able to perform in front of my home
crowd, students and family. I would like to thank everyone in
advance for all the support over the years. I will do my best,”
stated Gurgel in his blog.
Gurgel
went to war with Diego Sariava in his last bout at UFC 73 in
July which earned fight of the night honors by the UFC.
Shortly
after the bout, Gurgel spoke to MMAWeekly and confirmed that
he had a broken jaw which would require surgery to have it wired
shut.
Despite
the injury, Gurgel was still able to train and now after calling
Cincinnati his home for the past 10 years, fighting in front
of his adopted hometown crowd is a dream come true.
“In
my mind I was on the card. In my mind I was totally on the Cincinnati
card,” said Gurgel during an appearance on MMAWeekly Radio.
“You can’t take stuff for granted, I swear to God,
the card had been full. There’s nothing Joe Silva or Dana
(White) could do about it, and Monte (Cox) my manager called
me and said the card is full, we’re going to have to wait
to November or December. And I wrote Joe Silva, I said ‘please,
please, I will fight for free, I just want to fight in front
of my students and in front of my family, it means more to me
than a title shot, I just want to fight at home.’ Two days
ago, Monte called me and says ‘how are you doing?’
and I’m like, I’m great, I don’t have anything
to do, I miss training and I’m waiting to get my jaw open
and he goes ‘you better get ready’ and I said for what,
and he goes ‘you’re fighting on the Cincinnati card."
During
the initial excitement about the chance to fight in front of
the Cincinnati crowd, Gurgel did forget one crucial thing…who
he was fighting.
“When
Monte told me I was fighting I was like ‘thank you, thank
you, thank you so much’ and I hung up the phone and I started
running around and telling everybody and everybody was ‘I’m
so happy for you’ and I didn’t even ask who I was fighting.
I never care who I’m fighting, like I always say, my job
is to get a name, a location, a date and I’ll show up as
prepared as I can possibly prepare myself to fight. So I called
him back and said ‘who am I fighting?’ and he said
‘you’re an idiot, you just hung up the phone, you’re
fighting Doug Evans.’ And I remembered because I saw his
fight with Huerta, he’s a very good wrestler, he’s
got extremely good conditioning, but I’m very confident,
I don’t underestimate my opponents,” said Gurgel.
Doug
Evans made an impressive performance in his UFC debut even in
a losing effort after giving highly touted lightweight Roger
Huerta everything he could handle in their bout in June.
Gurgel
explained that he looks at every opponent with the same thought
in mind.
“For
me right now, like Diego (Sariava) was, Doug Evans is the most
dangerous lightweight in the world and I’m going to prepare
for war and he better do the same or he’s going to get hurt.”
The
entire card for UFC 77 has not yet been announced, but it will
be headlined by a UFC Middleweight Title rematch between champion
Anderson Silva and Cincinnati’s own Rich Franklin.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
EVANS
NOT FIGHTING GURGEL AT UFC 77
Doug Evans will not be the opponent for Jorge Gurgel at UFC 77
in Cincinnati, as confirmed by Evans’ manager, Chuck Wichert,
late Saturday evening.
Gurgel
announced the fight via his MySpace blog and then went into greater
detail about the fight being offered to him during an appearance
on MMAWeekly Radio on Friday night.
During
the broadcast, Gurgel told MMAWeekly that he was offered a fight
in his adopted hometown of Cincinnati and that it would be versus
Alaskan lightweight fighter Doug Evans.
The
word from Evans’ camp is that he is currently dealing with
an injury and that they are unsure if he will be 100% by October
20th.
Wichert
confirmed that the fight with Gurgel was offered to Doug Evans
by UFC matchmaker Joe Silva, but unfortunately due to the injury
they had to decline the fight.
No
official announcement has been made by the UFC about Gurgel's
opponent at the debut event in Cincinnati, Ohio, now that it
has been confirmed Evans will not be his opponent.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
Quote
of the Day
"Difficult
times always create opportunities for you to experience more
love in your life."
Barbara De Angelis, American Author and Expert on Relationships
and Personal Growth
|
Punishment
in Paradise This Weekend Is Postponed!
Due
to high number of fighters withdrawing themselves from the fight
card due to injury, Punishment In Paradise has decided to postpone
the event instead of holding an event that did not meet the promoter
or fan’s expectations. You can be sure that we will make
it up in the next event.
Source:
Event promoter
|
JJ
World Championship includes stars
More than one thousand signed up
The
thousand-person mark for people signed up has been passed (there
have been at least 1060 confirmed) and the Jiu-Jitsu World Championship
will include the presence of some of the greatest gi-wearing
names on the planet. According to information obtained by GRACIEMAG.com
from the International Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF), well-known
and historic characters have guaranteed their participation.
Current
lightweight black belt two-time champion, Celsinho Vinicius,
Gordo JJ, will try for a third. His training partner, Antonio
Braga Neto, last year’s standout for winning the absolute
brown belt (repeating the feat at blue, brown and purple), debuts
in the championship at black belt.
One
to shine among the most advanced and also confirmed is Fernando
"Margarida" Pontes, absolute black belt champion in
2001. The ADCC 2007 champion Robert Drysdale, as well as Eduardo
Telles, Mario Reis, the Americans Mike Fowler and Rafael Lovato
Jr., and Fernando Soluço are some other full-fledged celebrities
that will be in action at the California State University Long
Beach gymnasium, in Long Beach, California, from the 23rd to
26th of August.
It
is worth paying attention to the fact that there are only 10
days remaining for the sign-up deadline. Click here to sign up.
Click
here to check the updated list of those signed up for the 2007
World Championship and stay tuned to GRACIEMAG.com for more news
relating to the greatest Jiu-Jitsu tournament on earth.
Source: Gracie Magazine
|
Priscila
Belfort's Murderer Confesses
by Sherdog.com Staff
The
kidnapper and eventual murderer of Priscila Belfort, sister of
popular mixed martial artist Vitor Belfort, confessed to authorities
on Monday, according to Brazilian media.
Elaine
Paiva, 27, admitted to kidnapping and murdering Belfort after
receiving money when the gang she worked under was dissatisfied
with ransom negotiations.
Paiva
was arrested along with three others alleged to be involved in
the kidnapping that took place in January 2004.
Police
are searching for the body on a small farm near Rio, where Belfort
is said to have been buried.
Source: Sherdog
|
New
life
By Marcelo Alonso
I received a few proposes and this is a dream that I have since
long time, to make a work here on USA. I guess that this is the
moment, It has to be now.
After
make a successful debut in England, at the Cage Rage 22, that
was hold at July 14 in London, where Sperry was well superior
than his opponent and showed a kid breath, taking down, passing
guard and taking back to submit in 1m39s with a rear naked choke
the English Lee Hasdell. Mario Spery tell us in a exclusive interview
to TATAME about his futures fights, about his IFL team and about
his moving to . “I received a few proposes and this is a
dream that I have since long time, to make a work here on . I
guess that this is the moment, It has to be now”, said the
Jiu-Jitsu black belt who is in agreeing the details for his moving.
Check the complete interview below:
After
a good time out of the ring, how was the fight at the Cage Rage?
How was the adrenalin?
I
was a good time out of the ring, but I was confident, well trained,
relaxed. The adrenalin was normal, what I like most, is the vibration
of fight.
What
do you fell about English fans, making a comparative to Japanese
one?
The
Japanese fans are different than any other one. The English,
American, and even Brazilian are really close, they support the
house guys. And that what happen there, the crowd was only for
the guy, my opponent. But after I won the fight, they clap hands
and recognized my victory.
That
was your strategy for the fight?
The
strategy was finish quickly as possible the fight, to submit
the fight early, by knock out or submission. When the fight start,
I felt that he was waiting for a leg attack and this open another
way for me. He was with a low guard, I attack him and strike
him with a straight punch and a cross punch that took his face.
Then I went to the double-leg and he defends, but in the single
leg he fall. I was with a good ground game, well trained, so
I made my game and I let him make a mistake, I turned and got
his back and I trained that position a lot, so it was tight.
How
are the negotiations to your next fight? Did you start to talk
with the Cage Rage promoters?
Everything
was fast, because on the morning before the fight I leave. I’ll
wait things set down and keep in touch with then and others organizations
too. The people of EliteXC were there, the people of Boodog too
and let see if we can capitalize something after this victory.
I’ll keep training hard.
At
IFL, did you have already define your team?
I
didn’t because I still going to talk with the IFL president,
but we should make a presentation these year and start to fight
the league in 2008. I have a few names in mind, but the priority
is to make a team strong, to conquer the title.
You’re
moving to ? How was that, what motivates you?
I
received proposes and this is a dream that I have since a long
time, to make a work here on . I guess now is the right moment,
It has to be now. I have few proposes for a training center with
my name. The Brazilian Top Team keeps going, as always, and I
going to try a new project on , taking BTT as a model. Make a
training center where the excellence will be fight on the ground,
based on Jiu-Jitsu and Submission and we can work with MMA part,
but the main techniques will be Jiu-Jitsu and Submission.
You
know where at you will are going to live or your team name?
I
have no idea yet. I’ll stay down here for a couple of weeks
trying to resolve that. I going to talk with some peoples that
are making me some proposes, I’m going to four different
places. When I go back to I’ll chose the place and make
the project and I believe that I could be ready to start at September.
Source: Tatame
|
Steroids
in Mixed Martial Arts
By Robert Rousseau
Last season, Shawne Merriman, a ferocious outside linebacker
for the San Diego Chargers, was found to be in violation of the
NFL’s drug policy after the anabolic steroid Nandrolone
was found in his system. Earlier that same year, Tour de France
winner Floyd Landis was found to have elevated levels of testosterone
of the synthetic variety in his system And, of course, we’re
all very well aware of the constant steroid allegations that
have followed baseball players like Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire,
and Sammy Sosa.
So
why would the sport of mixed martial arts be any different?
Since
word came back after a recent UFC Lightweight Championship bout
between Hermes Franca and Sean Sherk that both fighters had tested
positive for a banned substance (in Franca’s case it was
Drostanolone; in Sherk’s, Nandrolone Metabolite) the media
has truly honed in on the issue as it relates to MMA.
Here’s
what we do know. First, White, of course, does have to do something
about the burgeoning steroid problem. Why him? Simply because
he’s the president of the biggest mixed martial arts organization
on the planet. Further, he recently admitted this to ESPN The
Magazine when he said, “this thing is on my lap.”
Steroids
are hardly a problem exclusive to the UFC right now, and that’s
true even when it comes to the sport of MMA. Recently, after
a Strikeforce bout on June 22, 2007 where Phil Baroni lost via
rear naked choke to Frank Shamrock, Baroni’s test results
came back positive for the banned substances Boldenone and Stanozolol.
And what is possibly the greatest shake up the MMA world has
experienced in some time, the legendary Royce Gracie tested positive
for the substance Nandrolone Metabolite after his recent victory
over Kazushi Sakuraba at K1 Hero’s: Dynamite!! USA.
All
of the aforementioned happened only in a little over a month’s
time. Of course, there will/ have been appeals. Not surprising
as what’s on the table are fines and one-year suspensions.
Royce Gracie (though there will be no appeal by him), Sherk,
and Baroni have all denied the accusations.
Taken
together, the steroid problem clearly pervades all of athletics.
Along with this, it probably could’ve been predicted that
MMA fighters might get involved as much, if not more, than other
professional athletes simply because of the level of training
these guys have to endure to get in the cage or ring. After all,
MMA fighters have to be both strong and quick; and they have
to be in the kind of shape that no other sport asks their athletes
to reach (try fighting 3-5 five minute rounds someday). MMA is
not a sprint, nor is it a strength competition, nor is it a marathon.
It’s
kind of like all three.
And,
unfortunately, steroids allow athletes to recover faster and
work harder, both of which are paramount to success in the sport.
So there is a lot of temptation.
In
suit, Dana White had a lot to say in the interview mentioned
earlier with ESPN regarding what he plans on doing about the
problem. First, he reportedly plans on withholding contract bonuses
depending on whether or not fighters pass their drug tests. It
appears that this may hold true regardless as to whether the
drugs are of a performance enhancing nature or not. Second, he
said “when we get a break after the Sept. 22 card, I'm putting
on a two-day seminar. It's not going to be just about drugs,
but that'll be a big part of it. It's going to be all of our
top-level guys and all of our mid-tier guys. It'll easily be
50 fighters, maybe over 100.”
Now
here’s the question that his ESPN interviewer asked more
than once. Is that enough to clean up the sport?
First,
the realization of the drug problem, at least when it comes to
high profile MMA athletes, is relatively new. Although it probably
could’ve been predicted– and therefore dealt with beforehand
better– it wasn’t, and it’s not fair to blame
anyone for that. Second, when athletes use a banned substance
that they know is illegal, then they are truly the ones at fault,
not a commission or a league. In the end it’s about two
things– punishments for wrongdoing and proactive work if
the problem is going to get cleaned up.
Are
the commission’s current punishments enough (a small fine
and one year suspension)? Clearly not, or the surplus of recent
transgressions wouldn’t have occurred. Will the withholding
of contract bonuses help? Yes, it will probably help some–
particularly with guys that make a lot of money that way–
but for mid and low tier guys withholding bonus money that isn’t
even there won’t do much at all.
In other words, that extra oomph won’t fix the problem by
itself.
White’s
idea to put on a two-day seminar that goes into drugs in a big
way is a good one. Maybe he can speak to them about the ridicule
one will go through; perhaps even find an athlete to talk to
them– even if it isn’t an MMA guy– that has gone
through it. After all, beyond the loss of livelihood for one
year and the money, there’s reputation. People will say
that you cheated, and they will be right.
Sean
Sherk is appealing his decision. According to White, “other
guys who've been busted for the same steroid have had over 50
nanograms in their system. What my experts tell me is, there's
no way that he would only have 12 in his system.” Unless
he wins his appeal– perhaps even if he did– can you
imagine how hard it’s going to be for him to win back fans?
One test can change a lifetime of accomplishment and hard work.
In
the end, however, it might be even better if all mixed martial
arts organizations were to have a mandatory seminar for new fighters
on this.
Now
that would truly be proactive.
So
basically we’re in a wait and see game here. Will the changes
White wants to implement stop steroid use altogether? Obviously
not, as significantly increased penalties in other sports have
not succeeded in the elimination. Besides, MMA isn’t just
the UFC: EliteXC, K1, and friends need to get involved too.
The
goal should be to significantly reduce the problem, and the UFC
is the best place to start in that regard. White appears ready
to make some relatively minor changes. Further– and this
is somewhat respectable– he doesn’t want to throw fighters
under the bus that he’s a friend with, like Sean Sherk.
After all, he cares about his fighters and realizes that they’re
more than just some guys we watch on television, they’re
human beings.
The
sport having this many high profile positive tests in such a
short span is obviously terrible publicity and does nothing to
help some of the negative stereotypes regarding it. Both fighters
testing positive in a UFC Lightweight Championship bout really
couldn’t be any worse.
So
if this doesn’t clear up in a big way soon, White is probably
going to have no choice but to step up the penalties. After all,
when you’re talking steroids, you only have two options:
Proactive discussions and reactive punishments.
Perhaps
seeing what has happened to Sherk, Franca, Baroni, and Gracie
will help to stop future transgressions. Hopefully, anyway.
Source: MMA Fighting
|
Quote
of the Day
"Failure
comes only when we forget our ideals and objectives and principles."
Jawaharlal Nehru, 1889-1964, Indian Nationalist and Statesman
|
Matt
Hume Seminar Today!
Any questions?
Shoot an email to: info@razegear.com
Source: The
Vince
|
BJ
Penn Fighters
competing in Australia!
WARRIORS REALM
Presents
WARRIORS
REALM REALITY FIGHTING 10
THIS
IS IT, THE REAL DEAL! NO HOLDS BARRED!
SATURDAY
11th August 2007
Southport
RSL Scarborough Street GOLD COAST
This
August sees Warriors Realm the famous steel Caged Hexagon return
to Queenslands Gold Coast for the 2nd time. Titled USA/Hawaii
vs Australia, Warriors Realm 10 will be held on Saturday 11th
August 2007 at the Southport RSL Scarborough Street, Southport
GOLD COAST.
This
unbelievable, extreme event will bring together some of the most
exciting Warriors from across Australia to compete at this well
respected Mixed Martial Arts event.
USA/Hawaii
Vs Australia is going to be huge and will include Team Australia
against a tough USA/Hawaii Team, trained by no other than BJ
‘The Prodigy’ Penn and plenty of hard hitting MMA Under
card action including an Australian Welterweight title that will
be contested by Queensland’s Matt Cain against South Australian
Brad Thompson. We have planned out a gripping evening, watching
some of the toughest men in Australia battle it out.
The
Warriors Realm is a hexagon eight metres in diameter with a seven
ft high chain mesh fence and this heavily reinforced cage has
only one gate. Come and watch as these champion Warriors battle
it out in the hexagon using pure strategy, strength and combat
skills.
Each
Warrior uses a blend of modern and traditional fighting techniques
called Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). MMA is sometimes referred to
as the Triathlon of fighting. With MMA practitioners having to
be equally skilled in stand up striking, clinching, takedowns
and throws and submission wrestling, these fights are an amazing
strength and skills test. Don’t miss out on this opportunity
to watch as these ultimate fight matches are fought live at South
RSL Gold Coast in May. Each fight is highly regulated and MMA
fights are one of the safest and exciting combat extreme sports.
May the best man win!
The
beautiful ‘Warriors Realm Reality Fighting’ ring girls
will also be on hand to keep the crowds entertained throughout
the evening. These young ladies are an elite group of ring girls
selected from some of the most beautiful women in the Queensland.
Come
down to Warriors Realm Reality Fighting 10, USA Hawaii Vs Australia
at Southport RSL Gold Coat on the 11th August 2007 for the ultimate
night of unbelievable Mixed Martial Arts action. Check out the
website on www.warriorsrealm.tv
Source: Tatame
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GREG
JACKSON COMMENTS ON SPLIT WITH DIEGO SANCHEZ
by Damon Martin
Diego Sanchez has officially left Team Jackson and moved to California
to be closer to his son according to former trainer Greg Jackson,
who commented during an appearance on MMAWeekly Radio on Wednesday
night.
“Diego
has moved to California to reconnect with his son out there,”
said Jackson. “He’s always a part of the team, but
he’s going to train out there for a while. We love him to
death, he still loves us; it’s just kind of a thing where
he wants to get out there and get to know his boy and live a
good life. He’s such a great kid and we all love him to
death, the whole team, and we wish him the best of luck while
he’s out there and can’t wait for him to get back.”
Sanchez,
who is slated to take on Jon Fitch at UFC 76, has trained with
Greg Jackson his entire career and this will be the first camp
where the guru from New Mexico won’t be present.
“I
know he’s working with Rob Garcia,” stated Jackson
about Sanchez’s new training camp. “He’s a great
trainer and a great guy and they told me he’s going to work
with some other people out there and there’s always lots
of sparring and stuff going on in California. And I’m sure
he’ll always come back here, if he needs us, we’ll
always be here for him.”
Despite
reports that the split was not amicable, Jackson insists that
he supports Diego’s decision and would welcome him back
at his camp anytime.
“No
hard feelings, no animosity, we love him to death,” said
Jackson
Jackson
has also been omnipresent in the corner of Diego Sanchez during
his rise from The Ultimate Fighter show to currently being ranked
#6 in the MMAWeekly World Rankings, but he will be absent in
that role as well for his upcoming bout with Fitch.
“He’ll
have Rob there and Rob’s great,” said Jackson about
who will be in Diego’s corner. “But I already have
my hands full with Leonard Garcia and Keith Jardine that same
night.”
Diego
Sanchez will face Jon Fitch at UFC 76 in California, while Greg
Jackson and his team help prepare former UFC Welterweight Champion
Georges St. Pierre for his upcoming bout with Josh Koscheck at
UFC 74.
Source: MMA Weekly
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Werdum
next to Chute Boxe
BJJ
Mundial championship, Fabrício Werdum is next of having
a deal with Chute Boxe. “I was going today to Curitiba to
talk with Rudimar, but I got sick. I am going to try a deal,
watch some trainings and to meet the structure that they have
there. I train here with my friends, but I need a bigger structure
and I think that Chute Boxe is the biggest Team in the world.
I received invitation from others big teams but Chute Boxe is
near my house and I don’t want to stay far from my family”,
said Werdum.
Asked
about the Heavyweight visit at Chute Boxe, the lider of the team
Rudimar Fedrigo was very optimist. “ First of all he is
coming to participate from some trainings and to meet the team.
I hope that everything goes well, because it would be a nice
acquisition to Chute Boxe”, said Rudimar.
Source: Tatame
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Hard
work for Liddell
The Iceman will have to win two fights to dream of the belt
The
fact that he was the most dominant light-heavyweight champion
of the UFC in recent years doesn’t mean life will be easy
for Chuck Liddell. Knocked out by Quinton Jackson in May, the
Iceman will have to sweat to have another chance at winning back
the belt that was once his. The one saying so is Dana White,
president of the American organization.
“Chuck
will have to win more than one fight. I think he should win two
in a row and then he will be back in the game. He was knocked
out in 1 minute 30 seconds of the first round. It doesn't matter
how great he is. I would like to see Liddell in action a couple
of times for him to then fight for the belt,” declared White.
Although
it has yet to be confirmed, White’s words lead specialists
to believe the adversary of the winner of the fight between Quinton
Jackson and Dan Henderson will likely be the one victorious after
the battle between Mauricio Shogun and Forrest Griffin.
Source: Gracie Magazine
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