Upcoming
Events
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(All events on Oahu, unless noted)
2008
6/5-8/08
World Jiu-Jitsu Championsihps
(BJJ)
(Long Beach, CA)
3/28-30/08
Pan Jiu-Jitsu Championship
(BJJ)
(Carson, CA)
2/08
OTM Grappling Tournament?
1/26/08
NAGA Hawaii
(BJJ & Sub Grappling)
(Location TBA)
Tentative
2007
11/23/07
Kickin It / Hawaii's Most Wanted
(Kickboxing, Various)
(Filcom Center, Waipahu)
Hawaii Fighting Championships 4
(Kickboxing & MMA)
(Dole Cannery Ballroom)
11/18/07
The Quest for Champions 2007 II
(Sport-Pankration, Submission-Grappling, Continuous Sparring)
(St. Louis High School Gym)
11/17/07
Kickin It / Hawaii's Most Wanted
(Kickboxing, Various)
(Filcom Center, Waipahu)
11/11/07
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 / Hawaii's Most Wanted
(Kickboxing, Various)
(Filcom Center, Waipahu)
X-1 Presents
Fight Club Meets The Night Club
(MMA)
(O Lounge Night Club, Honolulu)
10/19/07
Hawaii Fight League
(MMA)
(Dole Cannery)
10/6/07
Gracie Proving Ground
(MMA)
(Blaisdell Arena)
9/28/07
Hawaii's Most Wanted
(Kickboxing, Various)
(Filcom Center, Waipahu)
9/15/07
Elite XC
(MMA)
(Blaisdell Arena)
September
Gracie Fighting Championships
(MMA)
9/8/07
UFC
75
(02 Arena in London, England)
(PPV)
Hawaii Fighting Championships 4
(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)
|
|
October 2007 News
Part 3
|
Casca Grossa Jiu-Jitsu
is now the O2 Martial Arts Academy with 6 days a week training!
We are also offering Escrima (stick fighting) on Monday nights
and Kickboxing Tuesday and Thursday!
Click
here for info!
Take classes from the Onzuka brothers in a family-like environment! |
 
For the special Onzuka.com
price, click on one of these banners above! |
 |
Fighters' Club TV
The Toughest Show On
Teleivision
Tuesdays at 7:00PM
***NEW TIME***
Olelo Channel 52 on Oahu
Akaku on Maui
Check
out the FCTV website! |
Got a question for us? Email info@onzuka.com
or click here to send us
an email.
Looking
for a new Logo for O2 Martial Arts Academy
We are
willing to pay a graphic artist $150 if we choose their design
as the new logo for our school.
Check out this link for details!
|
Onzuka.com
Hawaii Underground Forum is Online!
Chris, Mark,
and I wanted to start an official Onzuka.com forum for a while
now. We were searching for the best forum to go with and hit
a gold mine! We have known Kirik, who heads the largest and most
popular forum on the net, The Underground for years.
He
offered us our own forum within the matrix know as MMA.tv. The
three of us will be the moderators with of course FCTV808 being
the lead since he is on there all day anyway!
We
encourage everyone from Hawaii and our many readers around world
to contribute to the Hawaii Underground.
If you do not have a login, it's simple and fast to get one.
Click here to set up an account.
Don't worry about using Pidgin English in the posting. After
all it is the Hawaii Underground and what is a Hawaii Underground
without some Aloha and some Pidgin?
To
go directly to the Onzuka.com Hawaii Underground Forum click
here!
|
|
10/31/07
Happy Halloween! |
Quote
of the Day
“In
whatever position you find yourself determine first your objective.”
Ferdinand Foch, 1851-1929, French Soldier
|
K-1
HERO'S KOREA IN REVIEW
SEOUL,
South Korea – On Sunday night, even the cheap seats were
sold out in Seoul’s Jangchung Gymnasium where $190 U.S.
would get you a ringside view of the action. Since the demise
of Pride Fighting Championships, K-1 Hero’s has inherited
the moniker of Asia’s premier MMA promotion.
With
a main event pitting Denis Kang against Yoshihiro Akiyama, as
well as fights showcasing former Ultimate Fighting Championship
titleholder Carlos Newton, Japanese TV personality Bernar Ackah,
and the mixed martial arts debut of arguably the best pound-for-pound
submission grappler in the world, Marcelo Garcia, it was no wonder
that one Sprit MC heavyweight, a veteran of shows in this very
stadium, resorted to creeping through a service entrance using
borrowed credentials.
Six
of the twelve main card fights featured Korean fighters, including
four matches billed as “Korea versus Japan,” with the
promoter’s obvious intention being to play upon a long-standing
rivalry and boost television ratings in the two countries, where
MMA events air on an almost daily basis. Going into the contest,
the cumulative record for Korean fighters was 4-10-0, while their
Japanese opponents entered at 57-52-8.
The
evening began with wins for Masanori Tonooka of Japan, (def.
Ryo Kakigawa at 1:30 of the first round via TKO), and Magomed
Sultanakhmadov of Russia, (def. Eun Soo Lee of Korea at 3:33
of round one, also by TKO). Sultanakhmadov was the stand-out
fighter, using a stiff jab from the southpaw stance and brutal
low kicks to the inside of Lee’s left leg as groundwork
for the knockdown and flurry that would finish him. Though relatively
untested at this event, Sultanakhmadov is a well rounded fighter
who won’t be appearing on under cards for long.
The
first of the main card contests was a 205-pound fight between
Bernar Ackah and B. J. Penn protégé Poai Suganuma.
Soon after the bell, Poai improvised a takedown and began striking
to the ribs from Ackah’s half-guard. Transitioning from
an arm triangle attempt into rear mount, Paoi flattened out Ackah
and landed a number of left strikes to the head. After another
cycle through rear mount and rear naked choke and arm triangle
attempts, Poai finally initiated a solid arm bar as Ackah attempted
to escape from full mount. Although Ackah would later protest,
the hold appeared to be sunk tight, and after a yell that was
interpreted as a verbal submission, the referee stopped the fight
with 1:59 remaining in the first round.
Ackah,
who began his MMA career with impressive wins over Hyun Pyo Shin
and retired NFL wide receiver Jonnie Morton, adds this second
loss to a knockout suffered at the hands of Melvin Manhoef in
his last outing.
The
next fight pitted A Sol Kwan, arguably the best Spirit MC fighter
with a losing record, (the twenty-one year old has only two losses,
both to Kwang Hee Lee, the current Spirit MC welterweight champion),
against seasoned DEEP and Pride fighter, Daisuke Nakamura. This
was the fight of the night.
Round
one began with exchanges of low kicks and jabs, evolving into
a true slugfest before Kwan dropped Nakamura with a knee and
ensuing flurry. From there Nakamura had a brief stay at rear
mount, before an unsuccessful toe hold attempt.
The
slugfest turned into a full-blown headhunt in round two. Several
times during this round Nakamura was visibly rubber-legged, but
it was unclear if he was truly rattled or if he was just trying
to bait the less experienced Kwan to within range of his stiff
jab. The round was stopped twice, both times to control bleeding
from Kwan’s nose. Just before the bell, Nakamura landed
a hard right that appeared to send a tooth flying.
In
round three the fight bogged down. With both fighters visibly
exhausted and Nakamura continuing to earn the better of each
exchange, Kwan went on the offensive after a third break to control
the bleeding from his nose, presumably warned by his corner that
he was on the verge of a doctor’s stoppage. After a failed
takedown attempt, Nakamura submitted Kwan via arm bar with 1:49
left in the round. (Korea 0, Japan 1).
In
a 187-pound contract fight, Min Duk Heo took on Katsuyori Shibata.
This fight began with some short-burst, head-down overhand flurries,
only to lull into a mid-round notable for a couple of lead rights
landed by Shibata to the diaphragm of Heo, before evolving into
an exchange of soft knees that ended with the two fighters on
the canvas, Heo in half mount and pounding. Shibata’s defense
prompted a standup, after which Heo landed a right, a knee, and
several unanswered blows, but was too exhausted to capitalize
before the bell.
Between
rounds, an equally wasted Shibata rested on the canvas beside
his stool. After several calls for action from the referee and
some clinch work in the corner, Shibada went down under a deluge
of undercuts and hooks mid way through the second round. (Korea
1, Japan 1).
Next,
Carlos Newton took on Shungo Oyama in what was anticipated to
be a tough battle between experienced, hard-hitting fighters
at pivotal points in their respective careers. It wasn’t.
The former UFC Champion looked heavy and flat-footed from the
start, and out of his natural weight class at the contracted
198 pounds. After being hit early with a series of right-left
combinations, Newton responded with a momentary stare-down before
being hit with a flurry that left him stunned. With 1:51 left
in the first, time was stopped to attend to a cut over Newton’s
right eye. Calls of “Hands up!” and “Chin down!”
from his corner were answered with a takedown attempt that ended
after a scramble with both fighters standing.
In
the second round, Newton was on the losing end of almost every
standing exchange, throwing his punches one at a time while Oyama
answered with combinations. By the third round the stadium was
almost silent. Newton threw a couple flipping jabs that looked
like Floyd Mayweather on Phenobarbital and gin then was stuffed
on a double-leg attempt. Oyama pounded to the side of the head
and Newton tapped out due to strikes.
The
crowd erupted to welcome Marcelo Garcia, three-time Abu Dhabi
Combat Club division champion, to the ring for his professional
MMA debut against Dae Won Kim, a fighter at the losing end of
submissions in two of his last three outings. From the bell,
Garcia went for single leg takedowns. The third attempt ended
with Kim on his back. A lot of scrambling and ineffectual striking
terminated with Garcia in rear mount attempting a rear naked
choke, but Kim escaped and landed a straight right to end the
round.
Kim
went on the attack to start the second. A lunging right hand
left Garcia dazed as the follow-up flurry drove him into the
corner. A hard knee from Kim sent Garcia into guard. The fight
was stopped twenty seconds into round two for a cut that had
opened on Garcia’s forehead.
If
you’ve seen the video of Min Soo Kim getting pummeled by
recent UFC acquisition Brock Lesner, then no description is necessary
for the beating Tae Hyun Lee gave Yoshihisa Yamamoto and you
can skip to the next fight. Ssirim wrestling champion Tae Hyun
Lee is almost that big and the beating he gave the thirty-eight
year old Yamamoto was almost that bad. Think looping lefts and
rights, a middle kick followed by a short pounding on the canvas,
and you’ve got it. (Korea 2, Japan 1).
Coming
off four consecutive MMA losses, Korean punch-sponge Min Soo
Kim was seeking to chock his slide with a win against Japanese
crowd favorite Ikuhisa Minowa. On paper, this fight looked like
a mismatch, (Kim is 3-6-0, while Minowa is 38-25-8), but in this
instance the deciding factor was size, (Kim weighed in at 254
pounds while Minowa tipped the scales at 201 pounds).
Apparently
incensed by the smaller Minowa’s lean build and athleticism,
or motivated out of embarrassment for his own dough-like consistency,
Kim charged from the opening bell. He quickly forced Minowa to
the corner with a deluge of overhand rights and lefts and though
Minowa fought back hard, it was soon clear that the pairing was
a simple size mismatch. A temporary break in the action occurred
with 3:37 elapsed, when Kim was yellow carded for an illegal
knee to the head, (Minowa had three points down), but this served
only to delay the inevitable. Even in the center of the ring,
Minowa simply could not reach the larger Kim. The referee stopped
the fight at 3:46 of the first round. Kim celebrated by climbing
the ropes on each side of the ring and leading the crowd in Minowa’s
signature victory cheer. (Korea 2.5, Japan 1)
The
showcase fights began with Teiei Kin, (212 pounds) of Japan versus
Croatian Zelg Galesic (183 pounds) in what was billed as a 187-pound
contract fight. It took only thirty-six seconds for Galesic to
land a straight right followed by a left high kick that opened
a cut over Kin’s right eye. The fight was ruled a TKO by
doctor stoppage.
The
press conference tension between Dong Sik “I don’t
fight with my eyes” Yoon and Fabio “I know what a real
fight is” Silva carried over into the pre-fight instructions
as Silva once again tried to spontaneously combust Yoon with
his stare. Soon after the bell, Yoon shot in and Silva fell back
to half guard. From there Yoon moved to full mount and began
pounding. After several transitions, Silva spun a reversal. Yoon
locked down and with 6:50 left in the round, action was paused
to re-stand the fight. A clinch on the ropes led to a nice body
lock takedown by Yoon, who began pounding from the half mount
position. Following a failed heel hook attempt, Yoon transitioned
smoothly from half guard to a high tight mount, where he paused
just long enough for all 5,289 in attendance to find cadence
in their chants of, “Arm bar! Arm bar!” Yoon responded
by muscling an arm free and earning his third straight victory
via arm bar submission with 3:42 remaining in the opening round.
Both
main event fighters were coming off extended layoffs – Kang
due to a broken had that required surgery, Akiyama due to suspension
– are Korean crowd favorites and appear to be at or nearing
the prime of his career. Jangchung Gymnasium is home to Spirit
MC, an organization in which Kang currently holds the heavyweight
belt. Akiyama could slather himself with Nonoxynol 9 before a
fight and still be adored by 98% of all Koreans. Both fighters
entered the ring to deafening cheers.
Kang
was the aggressor from the opening bell, mixing hard right punches
with his jabs and landing several low kicks, but Akiyama countered
to end most of the exchanges with more accurate strikes. Around
2:30 into first 10:00 round, the fight was paused to attend to
blood streaming from Kang’s nose. After the re-start Kang
attempted a takedown, but both fighters remained on their feet.
From there Kang elected to face Akiyama with his back to the
corner, but when a single right uppercut dropped Kang, Akiyama
threw only a half hearted follow-up at the obviously disoriented
fighter. Even before the referee could cover Kang, Akiyama was
running toward his corner to celebrate.
Kang
exited the ring under his own power, but skipped the post fight
press conference and left the stadium in an ambulance, while
Akiyama lingered in the ring for a confetti-strewn photo session
with the ring girls.
(Final score: Korea 3.5, Japan 2.)
Final
Results from K-1 Hero’s, Jangchung Gymnasium, Seoul
Yoshihiro
Akiyama def. Denis Kang by KO (Punch) at 4:45, R1
Dong Sik Yoon def. Fabio Silva by Submission (Armbar) at 6:12,
R1
Zelg Galesic def. Taiei Kin by TKO (Doctor Stoppage) at 0:36,
R1
Min Soo Kim def. Ikuhisa Minowa by TKO (Punches) at 3:46, R1
Tae Hyun Lee def. Yoshihisa Yamamoto by TKO (Punches) at 1:03,
R1
Dae Won Kim def. Marcelo Garcia by TKO (Doctor Stoppage) at 0:20,
R2
Shungo Oyama def. Carlos Newton by Submission (Punches) at 2:42,
R3
Heo Min Seok def. Katsuyori Shibata by TKO (Punches) at 1:31,
R2
Daisuke Nakamura def. A Sol Kwon by Submission (Armbar) at 3:09,
R3
Poai Suganuma def. Bernard Ackah
by Submission (Armbar) at 3:05. R1
Magomed Sultanakhmedov def. Eun Su Lee by TKO (Punches) at 3:33,
R1
Ryo Kakigawa def. Masanori Toonoka by TKO (Punches) at 1:30,
R1
Source:
MMA Weekly
|
IFL
INJURIES MOUNT, SO DOES TV COVERAGE
As the International Fight League heads into its first Grand
Prix tournament to crown individual champions, the injuries continue
to mount.
Last
Thursday, the promotion announced that welterweight Brad Blackburn
and heavyweight Reese Andy both had to withdraw from the four-man
tournament format due to injury. Monday, the league announced
that Pat Healy, another welterweight fighter, had been added
to the list due to an elbow injury.
Donnie
Liles, a former member of the now defunct San Jose Razorclaws,
steps in to replace Healy. He will face Jay Hieron, one of the
favorites to win the welterweight division, in a rematch of their
bout from March of this year. Hieron won their initial meeting
with a guillotine choke in the first round.
The
welterweight class now pits Jay Hieron vs. Donnie Liles and Delson
Heleno vs. Gideon Ray.
Despite
the recent changes in the fight card, the IFL has added to its
television coverage for the Grand Prix, which takes place Saturday,
Nov. 3 at the Sears Centre in Chicago.
In
addition to the previously announced one-hour live coverage provided
by MyNetworkTV, IFL coach Pat Miletich and his camp will be featured
on the new ESPN newsmagazine “E:60” on Tuesday night.
Saturday’s
one-hour episode of the IFL on MyNetworkTV is the first live
MMA event on prime time broadcast television. It is scheduled
to feature the light heavyweight championship fight between Vladimir
Matyushenko and Alex Schoenauer and the rematch between Chris
Horodecki and Bart Palaszewski.
Source:
MMA Weekly
|
Anderson
Silva talks about victory
In
special interview to TATAME, the UFC champion of middleweight,
Anderson Silva, talked about his victory over Rich Franklin,
in UFC 77, where he kept the possession of the American event
belt in a spectacular way. “He seemed to be stronger, more
motivated than the last time, it was difficult to hold his neck
in the clinch, it maybe seemed to be an easy fight, but it wasn´t”,
commented Anderson . Check the complete interview HERE:
Anderson
Silva
By Marcelo Alonso
"I have a good friendship with Chuck but I´ll cheer
for Wanderlei because he´s brazillian"
Absolute
In
special interview to TATAME, the UFC champion of middleweight,
Anderson Silva, talked about his victory over Rich Franklin,
in UFC 77, where he kept the possession of the American event
belt in a spectacular way. “He seemed to be stronger, more
motivated than the last time, it was difficult to hold his neck
in the clinch, it maybe seemed to be an easy fight, but it wasn´t”,
commented Anderson . The complete interview you find below.
Was
there any difference in this new fight against Rich Franklin?
He
seemed to be stronger, more motivated than the last time, it
was difficult to hold his neck in the clinch, it maybe seemed
to be an easy fight, but it wasn´t.
So
you think he came to this fight more well prepared?
Yes,
he was more prepared and was tougher.
There
are rumors that your next opponent can be Thales Leites, Ricardo
Cachorrão or another American. Do you know who could it
be? Do you have any preference?
Well,
I´m training hard to fight against the top fighters, so
this is what counts. I don´t have any preference. It can
be anyone.
Since
you´ve won the belt, all of your bouts was to keep the
title. Will it happen any bout without being to dispute the belt?
The
guys only fight to dispute the belt. I would like to fight two
or three times without disputing the belt, but think this will
not happen. But I´m ok, I´m very happy in Ultimate,
the guys treat me well, they do things right and I would like
to thank God, my friends and you from TATAME that are always
giving me all the support to continue doing my work.
Do
you think Shogun became tired or haven´t adapted himself
to octagon in his debut in UFC?
I
think that there´s a moment in life that you must stop
and analyze what you are gonna do and what you are not going
to do. He was married recently, and seemed that he didn´t
trained properly. I don´t know exactly what happened because
I don´t have much contact with him anymore, but he´s
a good athlete, has a good heart and must understand that defeats
happen in our life, it´s natural to have ups and downs.
I think he´ll return in great style, he must be calm, and
forget the past.
There
are people commenting that Wanderlei will debut against Chuck
Liddel. What advice would you give to him?
I
think the first thing he should do is to be together with people
interested in help him to reach his objective and train a lot.
I have a good friendship with Chuck but I´ll cheer for
Wanderlei because he´s brazillian but is a very hard fight
for both of them, but I think this bout will not happen.
Who
do you think that they will put to fight against Wanderlei?
There
are many fighters inside UFC so it´s difficult to say which
one they will choose, but there´s Quinton, Forrest Griffin,
many good fighters in this category.There´s Feijão
that will soon be entering UFC, and there is also Lyoto that
is training hard to get his space in UFC.
So
you confirm that Feijão will soon be in UFC?
In
my opinion he should already be there. I talked about him with
the guys from UFC.
Source:
Tatame
|
Quote
of the Day
“I
grew up with six brothers. That's how I learned to dance -- waiting
for the bathroom.”
Bob
Hope, 1903-2003, British-American Entertainer
|
Fighters'
Club TV New Episode!
Channel 52
Tuesdays at 7:00 PM
Make sure to tell your friends and family!
Yes, we're
back! After a bit of a break due to Mark concentrating on his
fight at Elite XC where he was victorious, FCTV comes back with
another great show!
We
take a look at a new event, in a new venue, by a new promoter...Fighters
Journey!
Mark
interviews one of the top fighters in the world at 160 lbs, Cesar
Gracie student, Nick Diaz. This interview was conducted just
before his now epic battle with Hawaii's own Mike Aina in Elite
XC.
Mike
gets a chance to chat with another Cesar Gracie student and one
of the best at 170 lbs, Jake Shields.
We
have a very special guest for our technique of the week segment
that you do not want to miss!
As
always, your warm and inviting hosts, Mark Kurano and Mike Onzuka
tastefully batter back and forth for your entertainment and enjoyment.
|
14-year-old
Hawaii boy killed in moped crash
Posted on: Monday, October 29, 2007
By Suzanne Roig
Advertiser Staff Writer
The boy that died was one of our best friend, Kaleo Auwae's
students, at Team Papakolea Jiu-Jitsu. As you can imagine, this
is shocking news to him and the team. The two boys competed at
our last in-school tournament and this is an unfortunate tradegy
that stole the life of such a young man before he even had a
chance to experience life. Rest in Peace and our prayers go out
to the family.
WAIALUA — A teenage boy was killed and his brother seriously
injured yesterday when the mopeds they were illegally racing
on Kaukonahua Road crashed into a guardrail during what was called
a "Halloween moped cruise" from Papakolea to the North
Shore, police said.
The
Honolulu Medical Examiner's office identified the dead boy as
Gjino Kanahele, 14. The name of his brother, 15, was not available
last night.
The
brothers were not licensed moped operators. State law says only
licensed drivers older than 15 are permitted to operate mopeds
on public streets.
The
brothers were part of a group of about 60 moped riders, said
Honolulu Police officer Willy Malina, from the Wahiawa station.
Many of the riders were not wearing helmets, including the brothers,
Malina said. Some moped riders may have been riding stolen mopeds,
he said.
After
the accident, all the other riders scattered, Malina said.
The
1:30 p.m. accident, which closed Kaukonahua Road for two hours
while police investigated, was on what residents commonly call
Snake Road because of the many S-curves, Malina said.
"Speed
and inattention to the road caused the accident," he said.
"The teenager tried to correct and was ejected off the moped.
His brother, who was following behind, was unable to avoid the
first moped and crashed."
Both
boys were taken to Pali Momi Medical Center where the 14-year-old
was pronounced dead and the 15-year-old was in serious condition,
police reported.
Sgt.
David Hernandez said police had been tracking the group the boys
were riding with. Some of those in the group were riding souped-up
mopeds that can go faster than 50 mph. Typically, mopeds don't
go faster than 35 mph, Hernandez said.
Police
said the group of riders started from Papakolea, in the Punchbowl
area, and traveling via Kamehameha Highway, reached the Wahiawa
area about noon.
Moped
deaths have fluctuated, from one in 2004 to eight in 2005, according
to figures from the state Department of Health and county police
departments.
Source:
Honolulu Advertiser
|
WANDERLEI
COMMENTS ON RETURN TO UFC
One of the most talked about fights in MMA history has finally
been signed as Wanderlei Silva and Chuck Liddell are set to meet
in the Octagon on Dec. 29 at UFC 79.
Silva
and Liddell are at critical points in their respective careers
with both coming off of back to back losses and a third would
be considerably devastating in a sport that doesn’t hesitate
to create new stars out of a legend’s ashes.
With
so many former Pride stars struggling in their UFC debuts, most
recently Silva’s former training partner, Mauricio “Shogun”
Rua, it is Wanderlei who steps into this latest challenge with
realistic expectations and a renewed fire for fighting.
“A
fight’s a fight,” said Silva. “Now I train only
the cage, the Octagon, of course I want to do my best, I want
to give good emotion for my fans here. I’ve been waiting
for this moment for a long time, and I’m going to give my
best.”
Silva’s
most recent loss was to now UFC light heavyweight Dan Henderson
in a performance that left fans wondering what happened to the
former Chute Boxe star who looked unbeatable for so many years
while defending his Pride middleweight championship.
Now
relocated to the U.S., Silva has started training in Florida
as well as at Xtreme Couture in Las Vegas to get him ready for
his turn to the UFC against Liddell.
“I’m
training hard, I only fight to win,” Silva stated. “I
want to come back to the top and fighting with Chuck now is the
best moment for me.”
Many
have questioned Silva’s stamina in the sport after so many
hard fought battles while competing in Pride, but the Brazilian
is quick to point out the best is yet to come.
“In
the next 2 years, I will give you the best of my career,”
Silva said.
While
his focus is now solely based on Chuck Liddell, many fans are
quick to notice that Silva has two dominant victories over current
UFC light heavyweight champion Quinton “Rampage” Jackson,
but the former Pride champion has his priorities well in line.
“For
me this is the opportunity to come back to the top. First, I’m
going to knock out Chuck and after I want the belt.”
Silva’s
debut will surely garner the attention of every MMA fans that
has been waiting with baited breath for his debut and a fight
with Chuck Liddell after this long will likely be exactly what
they’ve all been waiting for.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
LINDLAND
WANTS TO FIGHT
Matt "The Law" Lindland, ranked #3 middleweight in
the world by the MMAWeekly World Wide rankings, hasn't competed
since April when he lost to Fedor Emelianenko at Bodog Fights
in St. Petersburg, Russia. It's been six months and Matt Lindland
wants to fight.
"It's
been way too long since I've gotten back into the ring,"
said Lindland. "I have two fights left on my Bodog contract,
but I'm not exclusive with them as contracts shouldn't be. You
shouldn't have to be exclusive with one promoter. I'm pretty
much available to whoever wants me to come fight for their organization."
"If
somebody had somebody out there, like say Anderson Silva, that
needed to get beat up, I'd be more than happy to step in the
ropes and take him on. I think that would be a great match up
stylistic wise."
Lindland
was in attendance for UFC middleweight champion Anderson Silva's
title defense against Rich Frankiln at UFC 77 on Oct. 20 in Cincinnati,
Ohio. When questioned about Silva's performance, Lindland said,
"I thought he looked phenomenal. I've always thought he
was a good fighter, and he's getting better and better."
"His
striking is, I think, the best in MMA. I don't think anybody
else uses their striking skills as good as he does. I think my
wrestling is the best in MMA. And I think I'd like to match up
with him and see if I can close the distance and put him on the
ground and out maneuver him on the ground, or see if he can keep
the distance and create that space that he needs to do damage.
And he doesn't need much space."
Questioned
about fighting in the UFC again, Lindland said, "I would
love to get back in there. If they want to deal like professional
businessmen, I would love to work with them."
"I
just want to do it professionally and put everything into a contract
because this is a business, and it's my profession, and it's
how I do business. It's truth and verify. You can say what you
want, but if you can't verify it with a contract than it means
nothing."
Lindland
wants a contract that works to the benefit of both the organization
and him. He commented, "I've fought good guys, and I've
never tried to not do that. I just, I don't want to get stuck
in one of those long-term, low-paying contracts to do it. I just
don't think that's a wise business decision."
Lindland
continued, "I would love to come fight for that organization.
They've got a lot of good talent. They put on a good show. They've
got a great product. They understand how to market this sport.
They understand how to promote. They've got a lot of good things
going on for them, but they're inflexible. It's either our way
or beat it."
"I'm
with the IFL as a coach, and I think that's another sticking
point possibly with the UFC. They want to control every facet
of your life. What I do outside of the ropes: coaching, managing
fighters, or any of that stuff is irrelevant to what I'm doing
as an athlete and who I'm fighting for."
Lindland
simply wants to fight, and the layoff from competition has the
former #1 ranked middleweight frustrated. "I think I"m
in the prime of my career right now, and I don't want to squander
it away by not fighting," said the Team Quest fighter.
Currently
under contract with Bodog, Lindland was unsure what his future
is within the Calvin Ayre owned promotion. "I don't know
where they're going or what direction they're heading. I think
that's a question we've got to ask from them."
"The
other side of that is who do we ask? Every time we talk to them
it seems like it's somebody different that's making the decisions
in that organization."
Source: MMA Weekly
|
SPIKE
TV AND UFC EXTEND PARTNERSHIP
The Ultimate Fighting Championship and SpikeTV have reached an
agreement to extend their relationship through 2011. The announcement
was made by Dana White during a conference call. According to
multichannel.com, the deal between the two entities cost SpikeTV
more than $100 million.
The
deal will allow SpikeTV and the UFC to broadcast four live cards
per year through 2011. The UFC and SpikeTV are apparently working
collaboratively to produce a weekly series of live fights that
will probably not air in the very immediate future. The deal
will also include seasons nine through twelve of The Ultimate
Fighter. In 2008 and 2009, there will be two seasons broadcasted
per year. There will be one season per year in 2010 and 2011.
UFC Unleashed will also be extended with 39 new episodes on the
horizon.
This
deal was announced after the highly publicized deal with HBO
fell through. SpikeTV has been the original network that allowed
the UFC to broadcast mixed martial arts since 2005. Since that
time, the UFC has constantly delivered high ratings with its
live fight cards and with The Ultimate Fighter reality TV show.
“We
have the premiere [mixed-martial-arts] property … the UFC
is to mixed martial arts as the [National Football League] is
to pro football,” said Kevin Kay, president of Spike TV.
“You don’t have to worry about where you put it; everyone
who’s a fan is going to come to see the premiere product.”
Dana
White was equally excited to extend their partnership. “With
the tremendous success and the record ratings we have achieved
over the years, I am very happy to have Spike TV as UFC’s
cable partner,” said White. “I am excited to continue
our relationship with the team that has supported UFC from the
very beginning, and to have even greater success with all of
our UFC programming on Spike TV.”
The
extension of their partnership will allow the UFC to promote
their product even more than before, especially with the announcement
of a weekly live fight series that many fans have been waiting
for. Details of the live fight series are yet to be released,
but it is sure to excite many fans.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
Quote
of the Day
“To
keep a lamp burning we have to keep putting oil in it.”
Mother Teresa, 1910-1997, Albanian-born Humanitarian/Missionary/Nobel
Peace Prïze Winner
|
ShoXC:
Elite Challenger Series Results Release: Hamman Wins, Vazquez
Retires
Submitted by:Keith Mills
SHOXC
STUNNERS: JARED HAMMAN CHOKES OUT AARON ROSA, JAVIER ‘SHOWTIME’
VAZQUEZ RETIRES AFTER FIRST-ROUND WIN
Friday, Oct. 26, 2007, at 11 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME Chumash Casino
Resort, Santa Ynez, California
SANTA YNEZ, CALIF. (Oct. 27, 2007) – On a night when Tito
Ortiz’s protégé Aaron Rosa suffered his first
loss to undefeated Jared Hamman, Javier “Showtime”
Vazquez shocked the Mixed Martial Arts world by announcing his
retirement Friday on ShoXC: Elite Challenger Series on SHOWTIME.
“I am better suited as a coach than I am as a fighter,”
said Vazquez (12-2) following a 1:15, first-round victory by
way of submission (rear-naked choke) over JC “Crayola’’
Pennington (14-4-1). “When the sport feels like it’s
a job and you’re clocking in, then it is time to go.
“Win or lose, I knew this was going to be my last fight.
I signed for this fight about a month ago. But I actually knew
before that this would be it. I just wanted to give myself one
more chance to make sure that I was doing the right thing.
“To train everyday, as opposed to having to train everyday,
are two different things. I don’t know, maybe one day my
feelings will change. But the time feels right, and now I can
focus on my life. My camp and family knew what I was up to about
a month ago. We have a second child on the way.
“Right now, I am retired,” added Vazquez (javiervazquez.proelite.com),
31, of Pomona, Calif., who was one of the top Jiu-Jitsu practitioners
and most explosive and dynamic grapplers in the world. “I
am still going to go to the gym every day. I am a master teacher,
and I feel I will produce better fighters than me. I think I
have made a lot of 145-pound fighters happy.
Gary Shaw, EliteXC Live Events President, was caught totally
off guard by Vazquez’s announcement.
“This came as an absolute surprise,’’ Shaw said.
“I had no clue that he was even considering retiring. I
give Vazquez a lot of credit for doing what he feels is right
for the good of the sport.”
In other televised bouts presented by Los Angeles-based ProElite,
Inc.’s Live Fight Division, EliteXC, that aired at 11 p.m.
ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast) from Chumash Casino Resort:
Malaipet (3-1) outpointed Kaleo Kwan (8-7) at 155 pounds; Mushin
Corbbrey (12-2, 1 NC) rallied to defeat Bobby McMaster (8-2)
at 155 pounds; and Shayna Baszler (10-4) submitted Jennifer Tate
(4-1) at 135 pounds.
In results of contests streamed live on ProElite.com, the Internet’s
premier MMA social networking and entertainment site, that began
at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT: Unbeaten 135-pounder Chris Cariaso
(6-0) scored a unanimous decision over Rick McCorkell (6-4);
undefeated 185-pounder Giva Santana (10-0) submitted Jaime Fletcher
(8-3) in the first round at 2:46; and Shane Del Rosario (3-0)
submitted Amedeo Viola (0-1) in a triangle choke 2:27 into the
first round of their 225-pound bout.
“This was truly another great ShoXC cage fight card,”
Shaw said. “I really believe that ShoXC continues to do
for MMA what ShoBox has done for boxing. Tonight’s card
featured a lot of great, exciting fights and offered a bit of
everything.
“Jared Hamman was awesome. Shayna Baszler exemplified that
women do indeed have a place in MMA and with this win may have
earned a fight with Gina Carano. Malaipet possesses a ton of
talent. I know Kwan’s legs are going to
be sore in the morning. Corbbrey continues to demonstrate a ton
of skills.
“The fans in attendance, the viewers on SHOWTIME and ProElite.com
all received a couple hours worth of quality, competitive, exciting
fights. I am very happy for everybody involved.”
As surprising as Vazquez’s retirement announcement was the
performance of Hamman (10-0), who dominated Rosa (10-1) en route
to triumphing by way of second-round submission (rear naked choke)
at 1:46. Hamman, a college football coach, has yet to have a
fight enter the third round.
“This is definitely the biggest and most important win of
my career,” said Hamman (jaredhamman.proelite.com), of San
Bernardino, Calif., who used a series of body slams to eventually
render control over Rosa (aaronrosa.proelite.com). “Fighting
on SHOWTIME really added more pressure. But what’s cool
is that all my players (at the University of Redlands) were able
to see me fight and win.
“I don’t know what is next, but for now this is very
exciting. Rosa was definitely tough.”
Rosa of San Antonio, by way of Del Rio, Texas, conceded afterward
he was not at full strength.
“I don’t make excuses, but I was not 100 percent,”
he said. “I got sick recently and it totally messed up my
cardio. I got tired in there. I would definitely love to fight
him again.”
Pennington (jcpennington.proelite.com), of Slidell, Louisiana,
is hopeful of getting another shot on a ShoXC fight card.
“I fought a guy in Vazquez who was naturally much bigger
and strong than me,” he said. “I knew Vazquez was tough.
I look forward to fighting again soon and regaining my winning
ways.”
Baszler (shaynabaszler.proelite.com), of Sioux Falls, South Dakota,
made quick work of Tate (jennifertate.proelite.com), of Lodi,
Calif., by way of Stockton, Calif. Baszler triumphed by way of
submission (arm bar) 44 seconds into the first round.
“Honestly, I didn’t expect it to go that quickly,”
Baszler said. “I slipped a punch, the take down was there
and I took it. I did what I trained to do.
“I love fighting on SHOWTIME. I know all of my family and
friends were watching. I didn’t get a lot of airtime, but
I am very happy with this win. I’ve fought the best and
I am ready to fight anybody.”
Offered Tate, “I am really disappointed that the fans didn’t
get to see the real Jen Tate tonight. I am a much better fighter
than I showed and I hope EliteXC and SHOWTIME give me another
chance.”
In a fast-paced, one-sided war, Malaipet registered a unanimous
decision over Kwan.
Kwan landed a left hook and a series of gyrating jabs, drawing
blood over Malaipet’s right eye in the opening round. But
Malaipet dominated the fight with a series of thunderbolt low
kicks and flying knees to Kwan’s face.
“I am happy with my performance,” said Malaipet (malaipet.proelite.com)
of Upland, Calif., who was victorious by the scores of 30-26
and 30-27 twice. “But I guarantee I will be faster, better
and swifter next time. I was not 100 percent for this. But once
I sign for a fight there is no backing out.”
Said Kwan
(kaleokwan.proelite.com) of Waimanalo, Hawaii, “I caught
him with some good left hooks, but I didn’t pressure him
enough. I think I only tried to take him down once. But I am
Hawaiian. You hit me, I hit back. I wanted to test myself. I
lost, but I know I’m not that far behind the best.”
In the opening telecast of the evening, Corbbrey of Bluffton,
S.C., was dominated by McMaster until rallying to win by way
of submission (guillotine) at 4:49 of the opening round.
“He was tough as nails. Tougher than I thought, and I knew
he was going to be tough,” Corbbrey (muhsincorbbrey.proelite.com)
said. “This was a great fight. I was able to show my Jiu-Jitsu
and ground skills. This wasn’t the way the fight was supposed
to go. He had me down a long time, but I kept moving my head.
He never caught me with a solid, great punch.”
Said McMaster (bobbymcmaster.proelite.com), “I am not disappointed.
This was my first fight at the master level, and I thought I
beat him pretty good for the whole round. I will know next time
what not to do. I’m not happy because I lost but these are
the rules of the game.”
The executive producer of the telecast was David Dinkins, Jr.
with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.
EliteXC returns to SHOWTIME Saturday, Nov. 10, when “EliteXC:
Renegade,’’ presented by Gary Shaw Productions, LLC,
makes its highly anticipated debut in Corpus Christi, Texas,
live at 10 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the west coast). Calling the
action will be Mauro Ranallo and Stephen Quadros.
The main event will showcase an EliteXC world title fight in
a brand new weight class – 160 pounds -- between talented,
crowd-pleasing Nick Diaz (15-6) of Stockton, Calif., and exciting,
hard-hitting KJ
Noons (5-2) of San Diego, Calif.
An eagerly awaited match will mark the EliteXC debut of Kimbo,
the legendary underground bare-knuckle fighter who became an
overnight pop-culture sensation when his fighting videos were
posted on various video host sites throughout the Internet. On
YouTube, Kimbo’s videos have been downloaded in excess of
seven million times – and counting.
Kimbo, of Miami, Fla., will face six-foot, 275-pound veteran
Mike “The Rhino’’ Bourke.
A compelling Nov. 10 co-feature will match a Cesar Gracie Jiu-Jitsu
against an Xtreme Couture fighter when streaking, world-ranked
welterweight, Jake Shields faces Mike “Quicksand” Pyle.
In another televised fight, Kyle “KO’’ Noke (13-3-1),
the bodyguard of the late “Crocodile Hunter’’
Steve Irwin, will make his EliteXC debut in a 185-pound fight
against Seth “Mass Destruction’’ Kleinbeck (8-3)
of Ozark, Ark. A fifth television match is expected to be announced
in the near future.
For more information on ShoXC: Elite Challenger Series, EliteXC
and other MMA-related stories, including bios, videos, photos,
stats and much more, please visit ProElite.com and EliteXC.com.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
JAVI
VAZQUEZ WINS, THEN RETIRES AT SHOXC
ProElite, Inc. returned to the Chumash Casino in Santa Ynez,
Calif. to hold the third edition of ShoXC, which gives up-and-coming
fighters a chance to display their skills in order to possibly
get a spot in ProElite’s main show, EliteXC.
Two
undefeated fighters met in the main event as Team Punishment
fighter Aaron Rosa took on IFC Light Heavyweight Champion Jared
Hamman. Rosa dropped Hamman immediately as the fight started
but was unable to capitalize as Hamman recovered and took him
down. The two battled back and forth for the rest of the round,
with neither able to put the fight away.
Hamman
quickly took the fight to the ground in the second round. He
then started to work over Rosa with strikes as he moved into
side control, where he mixed in knees to the body with punches.
Hamman once again mounted Rosa, getting his back and finally
securing a fight ending choke that forced Rosa to tap at 1:46
of the second round.
Former
King of the Cage Lightweight Champion Javier Vasquez returned
to MMA competition after taking eight months off to heal up some
injuries, taking on J.C. Pennington in a catch weight fight at
150 pounds. Vasquez landed a nice left straight from the get
go, following it up with a low kick that spun Pennington around.
From there, Vasquez picked Pennington up and slammed him to the
ground. Vasquez wasted no time as he stood up, landed a punch,
got into side control and then mounted Pennington, who gave up
his back. Vasquez secured the choke shortly thereafter, forcing
Pennington to tapout 1:15 into the first round.
After
the fight, Vasquez announced that he was retiring from MMA competition
to focus on coaching fighters.
“I
am better suited as a coach than I am as a fighter. When the
sport feels like it’s a job and you’re clocking in,
then it is time to go.
“Win
or lose, I knew this was going to be my last fight. I signed
for this fight about a month ago. But I actually knew before
that this would be it. I just wanted to give myself one more
chance to make sure that I was doing the right thing.
“To
train everyday, as opposed to having to train everyday, are two
different things. I don’t know, maybe one day my feelings
will change.
“Right
now, I am retired,” added Vazquez
Decorated
Muay Thai fighter Malaipet looked impressive as he decimated
Hawaiian fighter Kaleo Kwan. Malaipet dominated this fight for
all three rounds as he used his effective low kicks throughout
and mixed in some solid punching combinations to punish Kwan.
Kwan never really looked to offer any trouble except landing
the occasional jab that seemed to annoy Malaipet more then actually
hurt him.
Malaipet
was coasting in the third round, when Kwan finally tried to get
the fight to the ground, but Malaipet was able to defend the
takedown and continue his assault on the feet. At the end of
the day, Malaipet went home with a comfortable unanimous decision
victory with scores of 30-26, 30-27, and 30-27.
Shayna
Baszler once again looked impressive in ShoXC as she quickly
submitted Jennifer Tate. Baszler got this fight to the ground
quickly, working from side mount before transitioning to full
mount. From there, she was able to easily lock on an armbar that
forced Tate to tap 44 seconds into the fight. Baszler now has
two victories in ShoXC and it looks like she has a meeting with
Gina Carrano in the near future.
In
a lightweight bout, Muhsin Corbbrey withstood an early assault
from Bobby McMaster to claim his second victory fighting for
ShoXC. In the early going, Corbbrey looked to keep his distance
on feet with technical punching combinations while McMaster sought
out the clinch. Once McMaster got the clinch, he immediately
took Corbbrey down. He then began a relentless assault of ground
and pound that Corbbrey had no answer for. McMaster was landing
some heavy leather within Corbbrey’s guard when the referee
stopped the action and issued a questionable stand-up. Once on
the feet, McMaster once again looked to clinch, only this time
Corbbrey landed a nice hip toss that put McMaster on his back.
A scramble ensued and Corbbrey locked on a guillotine choke.
McMaster tried to slam his way out of it, but Corbbrey held on,
forcing McMaster to tap with only one second left in the round.
Full
Results
-Jared
Hamman def. Aaron Rosa by Submission (Rear Naked Choke) 1:46,
R2.
-Javier
Vazquez def. J.C. Pennington by Submission (Rear Naked Choke)
at 1:15, R1.
-Malaipet
def. Kaleo Kwan by Unanimous Decision, R3.
-Shayna Baszler def. Jennifer Tate by Submission (Armbar) 0:44,
R1.
-Muhsin
Corbbrey def. Bobby McMaster by Submission (Guillotine Choke)
at 4:59, R1.
-Chris
Cariaso def. Rick McCorkell by Unanimous Decision, R3.
-Giva
Santana def. Jaime Fletcher by Submission (Armbar) at 2:46, R1.
-Shane
Del Rosario def. Amedeo Viola by Submission (Triangle Choke)
at 2:27, R1.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
AKIYAMA
DEFEATS KANG AT HERO'S KOREA
Poai Victorious
in Korea!
SEOUL, October 28, 2007 -- Yoshihiro Akiyama spoiled Denis Kang's
HERO'S debut with a KO victory tonight at the HERO'S Korea 2007.
Held before a boisterous sellout crowd at the Jang Chung Gymnasium,
the HERO'S Korea 2007 was a staggeringly ambitious production
-- featuring no less than 24 fighters in 12 bouts contested under
HERO'S mixed martial arts rules.
The
Main Event, keenly anticipated by fightsport fans in Korea, Japan
and around the world, saw Yoshihiro Akiyama of Japan take on
Canadian Denis Kang.
Akiyama,
the HERO'S 2006 Light Middleweight Champion, was returning to
action after serving a suspension for over-oiling his body at
the HERO'S Dynamite event last New Year's Eve. The slippery 32
year-old Japanese judoka faced a formidable opponent in Kang,
a 30 year-old Canadian mixed martial arts fighter who packs a
heck of a punch, and was making his HERO'S debut. The bout was
contested with an 85kg/187lbs weight contract.
Kang
threw the first strike, a low kick, then tested with jabs and
straight punches. Both men kept their guards high, in no rush
to close there were more jabs, straight punches and low kicks.
Akiyama, fighting in shorts instead of his judogi, stayed at
the perimeter, circling to his left, while Kang, head down, followed
with the occasional punching attack -- textbook combinations
which Akiyama capably evaded or blocked. Meanwhile, in an effective
if unspectacular manner, Akiyama was getting through with counters,
picking his spots, putting the more surgical strikes forward.
By midway through the first, Kang's nose was bloodied.
Somewhat
surprisingly, it was Kang who made the first and only takedown
attempt in the fight. Equally surprising, Akiyama would have
none of it, electing to fight this one on his feet. Time was
running down in the first when Kang backed himself into the corner,
intent perhaps on making his circling opponent approach him squarely.
The tactic backfired miserably however, when Akiyama stepped
in with a dandy little move, feigning a left, then another, before
bringing the right in hard. Kang collapsed to the mat, Akiyama
quickly planting another right for good measure before stepping
back to let the referee through to call it. An impressive win
for Akiyama.
"My
Mother supported me through the problems I had over the last
year," said Akiyama post-bout. "She was ringside tonight
and I just want to say thanks to her and all my fans. I think
I won because I was relaxed, when I saw that my jab had made
Denis' nose start bleeding, it made a big difference, gave me
more confidence and helped me relax and focus even more. I hope
to fight again soon, but it would not be right for me to expect
I will be invited to Dynamite this year, we'll see."
The
HERO'S Korea 2007 attracted a full house of 5,289 to the Jang
Chung Gymnasium. The event was broadcast live across Korea by
CJ Media, and in Japan on the TBS Network.
The evening's
first bout featured 35 year-old multi-disciplinarian Bernard
Ackah of Côte d'Ivoire and wrestler Poai Suganuma, 26,
who fights with the respected BJ Penn Team in Hawaii.
Ackah wanted to stand and strike, but Suganuma took a double
leg takedown and mount early on. The Hawaiian Volcano rained
some punches down, and as the pair were twisting on the mat was
able bring the legs round and lock up an arm, bringing the referee
in to stop the fight even as an unhappy Ackah protested that
he had not tapped out. A TKO win for Suganuma.
Source: MMA Weekly & ADCC
|
CAN
WORLD VICTORY ROAD FILL THE JAPANESE VOID?
Recently
in Tokyo, World Victory Road Inc. (WVR) and Japan Mixed Martial
Arts Federation (JMM) were introduced at a press conference to
rejuvenate the Japanese mixed martial arts market.
Naoya
Kinoshita was named CEO of WVR. He is a successful business figure
in Japan. As the chairman for the Kinoshita Group, a Japanese
real estate company, Kinoshita runs various businesses such as
constructing and managing apartments and mansions, managing public
health care facilities, and manufacturing furniture.
His
connection with MMA remains cloudy since no further information
has been revealed. But like he mentioned at the press conference,
his desire to bring life back to Japanese MMA as a loyal fan
and his experience as an acknowledged businessperson will likely
play a key role in his new challenge.
With
respect to the JMM, Tomiaki Fukuda was named President and Takao
Yasuda was named Vice President of the sanctioning body. Unlike
Kinoshita, Fukuda and Yasuda have spent significant amounts of
time in the world of MMA.
Fukuda,
who also serves as the President of the Japan Wrestling Federation
and Vice President for the International Federation of Associated
Wrestling Styles (FILA), made an appearance at the Pride Fighting
Championships show which took place on New Year’s Eve 2004.
He made an announcement that FILA and Pride would be forming
an alliance allowing wrestlers to compete in MMA. Since then,
FILA sent Aliev Makhmud for Pride 29 and two time Olympic bronze
medalist Eldari Kurtanidze for Shockwave 2006.
Fukuda
has made comments on various occasions that there are no barriers
between professional and amateur wrestlers, stressing that any
wrestler can compete in MMA and return to wrestling at their
will.
Yasuda,
another successful business figure, is the Chairman of the gigantic
Japanese retail chain Don Quijote. Educated at Keio University,
one of the top ranked schools in Japan, Yasuda was an amateur
boxer when he was in college. His boxing skills improved vastly.
But his dreams of turning pro came to an end when he realized
that he had almost lost sight in his left eye from his childhood
fights. Realizing that clear eyesight is a requirement for professional
boxers, he then turned over to the world of business.
Yasuda
started his career as a real estate agent. The company folded
in his second year and he decided to start his own business.
He opened a store selling miscellaneous products at a cheap price.
Yasuda
started his business with no knowledge, no experience, and no
partners. As he continued, he visited every partner by himself
and he worked through the night to purchase and display the products.
The business grew drastically and is now known as Don Quijote.
Offering food, clothing, cosmetics, video games, shoes, and a
myriad of other goods, don Quijote’s stocks are now traded
publicly.
Yasuda
was also cooperative when Pride lost their television contract
in June of 2006, sponsoring Pride events. Nobuyuki Sakakibara,
former CEO at Dream Stage Entertainment (Pride’s former
parent company), mentioned Yasuda’s name in his final speech
before resigning saying that he was thankful for his support.
Having
experience as a fighter and as a businessman, Yasuda brings unique
experience to JMM. He understands exactly how hard the professional
fighters are working out to prepare for fights. He also has the
knowledge of how hard it is to run a business. He may be one
of very few who could provide leadership and understanding as
a fighter and as a businessman.
The
downward spiral of Pride left a gaping hole in Japan’s MMA
scene. These leaders of WVR and JMM have now accepted the challenge
of filling the void. Only time will tell if they are successful.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
Quote
of the Day
"I
still have a full deck; I just shuffle slower now."
Source Unknown
|
ShoXC
Review: Hamman submits Rosa
Kwan loses
decision to Malaipet
By Robert Rousseau
ShoXC: Elite Challenger Series
Chumash Casino
Santa Ynez, CA
Friday, October 26
The ShoXC Elite Challenger Series came to us all on October 26,
2007 from the Chumash Casin in Santa Ynez, California. The commentators?
Al Bernstein and Stephen Quadros. The main event?
A
battle of undefeated fighters as Tito Ortiz protégé
Aaron Rosa was set to take on Jared Hamman. Further, a female
match without Gina Carano—there’s a first—also
was on the docket.
Here’s
how it all went down.
In
the first match of the night, Muhsin Corbbrey took on Bobby McMaster.
Before the fight, Corbbrey said, “my job is to take that
guy out, and that’s what I intend to do.”
This
fight was about a great first round that, unfortunately, was
not without its share of controversy. Early on, McMaster took
Corbbrey down and then unleashed a ground and pound assault on
his opponent for the majority of the round. In sum, Corbbrey
was getting dominated. But then with 44 seconds left in the initial
stanza, for some unknown reason, the referee stood them up despite
a ton of action on McMaster’s part.
When
the two locked up standing again, Corbbrey did an outstanding
job of throwing his opponent to the ground. Moments later, McMaster
found himself caught in a guillotine. Though he picked Corbbrey
up and slammed him, all that did was cinch the guillotine in
tighter.
Thus,
at 4:59 of round one McMaster tapped. A great comeback by Corbbrey,
but the referee should have never stood the two up. Afterwards,
Corbbrey was very gracious and complimented McMaster several
times.
Next
was the anticipated women’s match between Shayna Baszler
and Jennifer Tate at 135 pounds. Said Tate before the match,
“as soon as the bell rings, it’s on.” Interestingly,
Josh Barnett was in Baszler’s corner.
Well,
Tate was right; it was on as soon as the bell rung. But that
was unfortunate for her as Baszler immediately took her down,
mounted her, and then armbarred her.
A
textbook jiu-jitsu move as Quadros said. The fight was over after
only 44 seconds. Wouldn’t mind seeing Shayna Baszler fight
again. That was impressive.
Next up was a lightweight bout between Malaipet of Thailand and
Kaleo Kwan
of Hawaii.
Said Kwan before the match, “I love to knock people out.”
Unfortunately for him, he would not get a KO on this night.
The
story on this fight was simple. Malaipet, a well decorated world
champion Muay Thai kickboxer, ripped up Kwan’s left leg
with ferocious low kicks for the entire battle. Strangely, Kwan—a
man that even Malaipet noted would win if the fight went to the
ground—didn’t really ever try to get his opponent to
the canvas through the first two rounds. Finally, in the third
Kwan did try to get him down, but by then Kwan’s front leg
was probably so beaten he didn’t have the strength to do
so.
In
the end, it was a decisive and unanimous decision victory for
Malaipet. His low kicks are absolutely killer.
Next
came Javier Vazquez versus J.C. Pennington. “I get people
to make mistakes,” said Vazquez before the fight. Would
he prove correct in this one?
In
a word, yes; and rather quickly. Right off the bat, Vazquez was
able to take Pennington down, move to side control, then mount,
and finally take his opponent’s back. Seconds later, Pennington
was tapping from a rear naked choke.
The
fight was over after only one minute and 15 seconds. Afterwards,
Vazquez announced his retirement as he feels that he’s more
able to coach then fight at this point in his life. Further,
Vazquez noted that the sport was beginning to feel like a job
too much.
Finally,
came the main event. Beforehand, Hamman had never seen one of
his fights come to a decision.
Still
hasn’t.
The
first round was a very good one. Rosa dropped Hamman for a moment
with a counter right hand early on. However, from there Hamman
demonstrated his superior takedowns and ground control skills,
dominating his opponent in these areas. Further, he nearly pulled
off a rear naked choke.
In
the second, Hamman once again took his adversary down. From there
he moved to side control and eventually took Rosa’s back.
Moments later, Hamman sunk in the rear naked choke and it was
all over at 1:46 of round two.
In
the end, this installment of ShoXC was a fun one. Malaipet put
on a kickboxing clinic; Hamman is slowly becoming a force and
showed off some excellent ground skills; Baszler exhibited just
how dangerous a female fighter she can be; and Corbbrey demonstrated
just how quickly he can take home a victory with only a small
opening.
As
for Javier Vazquez, good luck to him. It was nice to see him
go out with a decisive victory like that.
Source: MMA Fighting
|
The
Straight Dope: CSAC Releases Drug Testing Numbers
By Steven Marrocco
A
week after the California State Athletic Commission broke the
news of Strikeforce fighter Adam Smith's double positive test
for steroids and drugs of abuse, representative Bill Douglas
released a mid-year report on drug use in boxing, kickboxing,
and MMA.
In
a clear lead for total violations, MMA had 33 black marks opposed
to boxing's eight and kickboxing's paltry 2. Of the events where
testing occurred, boxing led the three sports with 56 tests,
while MMA had 36, and kickboxing eight. Despite a far greater
frequency of random and blanket testing in boxing, MMA's ratio
of positive tests for drugs of abuse and steroids indicate an
epidemic in the sport.
Douglas
had two words for the findings. "Very scary!" he wrote
to media today.
Elevated
T/E ratios (an indicator of recent unspecific steroid use), Nandrolone
Metabolite, and Stanozolol Metabolite were the steroids most
frequently found in athlete's systems, while marijuana positives
dwarfed all other drugs of abuse.
Nandrolone
is widely used by bodybuilders and athletes as a muscle builder
and recovery aid, while Stanozolol is used primarily for cutting
weight.
When
Douglas last spoke to FCF after Smith's positive test, the commission
was hard at work on new legislation to punish athletes more stringently
for drug use.
Though
it could take up to a year to produce any legislative change,
these figures will undoubtedly factor in to the study the CSAC
conducts when drafting new laws. In only six months, California
has outshone Nevada as a center for drug use in the sport of
MMA.
Source: FCF
|
Full-Time
Fighter: Sean Salmon Discusses Fight With Jason “Mayhem” Miller, Possible Bout With
Cung Le
by Sean Salmon/MMAjunkie.com
I’ve
got a lot of catching up to do for my MMAjunkie.com fans and
a lot of thanking to do.
Let
me run this back to last week and thank one more time Duke Roufus,
Eric “Red” Schafer, David Heath, Joe Doerkson, Alan
Belcher, and the rest of Duke’s staff and students for making
me feel so welcome and part of the team when I was up there training
in Wisconsin. I also want to thank my cousin Kyle and his girlfriend,
Jenny, for letting me into their home for a week of training
and dieting. I am not as easy to get along with as these columns
may lead you to believe.
There
was also one night in Milwaukee that I did not get to mention.
I was treated to an awesome night of youth boxing at the Milwaukee
Athletic Club during my trip. I did not have a suit and tie (which
were required), though they let me slide with a TapouT shirt
and sportcoat. It was a great dinner and night of fights, so
I have to thank our host Jay Peters and his friend Steve Beiser.
Thanks to those two guys, I never once felt like an outsider.
Jay was the best host I could ask for, and Steve and I had more
in common than I would ever expect (especially considering he’s
a guy that has to wear a shirt and tie to work — haha!).
I only hope that I can return the favor the third weekend of
August at Irish Fest in Milwaukee (that goes for you too, Duke
and Red!).
On
to the fight. I landed in Calgary two days before the Oct. 19
Hardcore Championship Fighting’s “Title Wave”
event and weighed 196 lbs. I will always wish to be lighter,
but that was right on par with my gameplan. And unlike Finland,
this time I had help; my brother Matt flew up from San Diego.
Matt has recently been hired as my strength and conditioning
coach here in Columbus, as he is moving home soon. There is no
one involved with my career that does not get second guessed,
save Matt. Matt has asked me to inform you all that not only
has he been an athlete his whole life (he once scored 12 goals
in a 4-and-younger youth soccer game), but he was an All-State
soccer player for Worthington Kilbourne, played college soccer
for Marshall University (a great place to visit), has participated
in numerous triathlons and marathons, and is now training for
his first full Ironman. I am blessed to have great people surrounding
me.
The
fight with my opponent, Marcus Vinicios, went just like I planned.
I knew to avoid his kicks by staying out of range or in his face.
I closed distance well and scored takedowns when I wanted to.
There was a time during my warm-ups that I felt that I was giving
him too much credit for his kicks (like I was talking myself
into having one land). I stopped my warm-up, refocused myself,
and said, “There is no one at middleweight that can deal
with your size and speed.” I ended up doing exactly what
I wanted. I will say that Marcus was a great opponent. I got
to meet him before the fight and speak with him after. He is
nothing but a gentleman and a sportsman. I am sure my readers
are getting sick of hearing me say this, but I promise to let
you know if an opponent is anything else.
Hardcore
Championship Fighting (www.cfseries.com) is also run by some
of the best promoters to work for. I was never let wondering
what was going to happen; they kept me informed every step of
the way. I will fight for them anytime they call.
My
last thank you? TapouT. TapouT (www.tapout.com) jumped on board
with me shortly after UFC 71 and my loss to Alan Belcher. Even
I know that there was no reason to believe in me, but they did.
Everything I have asked for I have gotten from them, including
money. I know they seem crazy with their TV show on the Versus
Network, but they truly take care of their athletes. I have never
been confused with where I stand. I only hope that the MMA community
will start putting their money back into the companies that support
the fighters. If you didn’t know, I even weighed in for
my fight in Calgary in TapouT boxer shorts (there’s got
to be pictures out there somewhere).
Now,
onto upcoming fights (or what I am permitted to say, anyway):
I am “for sure” fighting on the Strikeforce card on
Nov. 16. However, Eugene Jackson (my original opponent) is injured
and can’t fight. I know Cung Le’s opponent has fallen
through, and I would like nothing more than to fight him. Here
we go again:
Dear
Strikeforce and Cung Le:
Please
give me this fight. I am looking for this type of opportunity,
and you can give it to me. I will beg if I have too. (Maybe I
need to hang out with my boy Phil Baroni and learn to trash talk.)
I
believe the fans of San Jose derserve this type of fight.
Sincerely,
Sean Salmon
Either
way, I have been assured that I am on this card, but I’m
most likely an “alternate bout” to the tournament.
I can’t complain about that, as I would be honored to fight
anyone in that four-man field.
Next
up, I have been given permission to announce that I will be fighting
Jason “Mayhem”
Miller
on the Dec. 15 HDNet Fights card. I know Mayhem has more fans
than I do (as I am a Mayhem fan myself, but not a numbered Monkey).
Please go to www.hdnetfights.com and let them know how excited
you are about this fight. I am praying that they get 100,000
emails about this fight — double up on your emails if you
feel you should. I have now had 18 fights in less than two years
and think that this one will be great entertainment for the fans.
In fact, I can’t wait to see the replay. If you are a Salmon
fan or a Mayhem fan, go to www.hdnetfights.com and let Guy Metzger
know how excited you are about this fight. Please show Mayhem,
HDNet Fights and me know how badly you want this fight, and ONLY
THIS FIGHT to happen.
I
only have one more issue for my readers at MMAjunkie.com to tend
too. I am going to be promoting a charity this Christmas season
that I am begging all of you to get behind with me. I am neither
rich nor famous, but I want to take advantage of the opportunities
given to me through fighting and this website to give back to
those in need. I am looking for suggestions. I only have two
stipulations: it has to be a U.S.-based charity, and it has to
involve kids. I will also back a runner-up charity if it involves
our troops. I have a cousin serving overseas that I have not
seen since I was 14, and I only want him and his younger brother
to be able to meet our grandma on a beautiful day in rural Wisconsin.
This
is something that I will be devoting a lot of time to and want
to put the full power of this website into. You can email all
suggestions, along with a brief description and website of the
charity, to my personal email address at salmonsean@yahoo.com.
I will be teaming up with the Junkie himself on this project.
This is not something that I want to take credit for alone. I
want to put everyone’s name that visits this website on
it. This is a free website with great information for everybody,
so let’s team up and see what a difference the MMA community
can make together.
Sean
Salmon (14-4 MMA) is an MMAjunkie.com columnist who pens his
Full-Time Fighter column for the site. The Columbus, Ohio-based
fighter and Team Jorge Gurgel member was sponsored by MMAjunkie.com
for his two UFC fights. If you have a question for Salmon, leave
it in the comments section of the post. He answers all respectful
questions.
Source: MMA Junkie
|
SPIKE
TV AND UFC EXTEND STRATEGIC TELEVISION PARTNERSHIP THROUGH 2011
Exclusive Deal Maintains Spike TV as the Home of the UFC®
on Cable TV
New Seasons of "The Ultimate Fighter®,"
UFC® Fights Nights™, New Episodes of “UFC®
Unleashed™,”
And A New Weekly Live Fight Series
NEW
YORK, NY, October 25, 2007 - Spike TV, a division of MTV Networks,
and the Ultimate Fighting Championship® (UFC®) organization
have agreed to a new, three-year extension of their strategic
partnership, it was announced jointly today by Kevin Kay, President,
Spike TV and Dana White, President, Zuffa, LLC d/b/a Ultimate
Fighting Championship. The deal maintains Spike TV as the basic
cable home to the UFC, the premiere brand in mixed martial arts,
the fastest growing sport in America, through 2011. The deal
was brokered by the Endeavor Agency.
The
main components of the deal are:
•
Seasons 9 through 12 of the highly successful reality series,
“The Ultimate Fighter®.” The first five seasons
of “The Ultimate Fighter” on Spike TV were seen by
93 million viewers. *
•
12 live fight cards, “UFC® Fight Nights™,”
hosted by Joe Rogan and Mike Goldberg. Spike TV will telecast
four per year.
•
Two seasons of a new, weekly live fight series (details to be
announced at a later date).
•
39 one-hour episodes of “UFC® Unleashed™,”
hosted by Mike Goldberg, featuring the greatest fights in the
history of the Ultimate Fighting Championship, many of them never
seen before on basic cable. Spike TV will run 13 per year in
‘09, ’10, and ’11.
“With
the tremendous success and the record ratings we have achieved
over the years, I am very happy to have Spike TV as UFC’s
cable partner,” said White. “I am excited to continue
our relationship with the team that has supported UFC from the
very beginning, and to have even greater success with all of
our UFC programming on Spike TV.”
“We
are proud to be the television home of the country’s
hottest sports
brand which is now firmly established as a major, regulated sports
franchise with an ever-growing fan base,” said Kevin Kay,
President, Spike TV. “It is a testament to the dedication
and foresight of UFC President Dana White that the UFC has emerged,
since its debut on Spike TV three years ago, as a must-have for
viewers and advertisers alike.”
In
2007, seven live UFC fights on Spike TV have averaged more young
men in the coveted 18-34 demographic (869,000) on cable than
the more established ‘major’ American sports of basketball,
baseball, football, hockey, and NASCAR including:
62%
more than the NLCS on TBS
143% more than the NBA playoffs on ESPN
24% more than the NBA playoffs on TNT
123% more than MLB Sunday Night baseball on ESPN
48% more than NASCAR on TNT
31% more than NASCAR on ESPN
81% more than the NFL on NFL Network
595 % more than the NHL Stanley Cup Finals on Versus
The
sixth season of “The Ultimate Fighter” currently airs
Wednesday nights at 10:00pm ET/PT and averages over 1.5 million
viewers each week. Season seven begins production in January,
2008. Craig Piligian of Pilgrim Films and Television, Frank Fertitta
III, Lorenzo Fertitta, Dana White of Zuffa, LLC, and Kevin Kay
of Spike TV are the show's executive producers. Brian J. Diamond,
senior vice president, sports & specials, Spike TV is co-executive
producer and Christopher Martello is executive in charge of production
for Spike TV.
Spike
TV is available in 96.1 million homes and is a division of MTV
Networks. A unit of Viacom (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), MTV Networks is
one of the world’s leading creators of programming and content
across all media platforms.
Source: UFC
|
CBS
Sports Questions UFC Credibility
By Gregg Doyel
CBSSports.com National Columnist
CINCINNATI -- I'm going to put this to potty-mouthed UFC president
Dana White in terms he can understand: Your sport has a major
f---ing problem.
It's
the scoring. At best it's a joke. At worst it's corrupt. Those
are the choices, and they are the only choices, as we were reminded
again Saturday at UFC 77: Hostile Territory.
We
have a question for Dana White: WTF? (US Presswire)
Maybe you don't know what I'm talking about. The latest outrage
-- the latest absolute joke -- happened before the UFC 77 card
went live on pay-per-view television. It was the first fight,
between lightweights Matt Grice and Jason Black, and Grice dominated.
He destroyed Black for most of 15 minutes, winning the first
and third rounds and controlling most of the second until Black
mounted his only offensive late in the round. At worst, Grice
won two rounds to one, which on the UFC's 10-point scoring system
would be a 29-28 decision. And an argument could be made that
it was 30-27.
The
fight was announced as a draw. One judge had Grice winning. One
had Black winning. The third had it even.
The
crowd went nuts. Grice was stunned. Black was embarrassed. The
crowd booed for more than a minute, even as UFC announcer Joe
Rogan was interviewing Grice over the public-address system (and
saying he thought Grice had won). Grice was in the middle of
explaining his shock when the frazzled director of the Ohio Athletic
Commission, Bernie Profato, lumbered into the octagon and whispered
something into Rogan's ear.
This
is where a bad situation got ridiculous. Profato was whispering
to Rogan that a mistake had been made. Rogan was relaying the
information to the crowd. Grice was celebrating. Black was nodding.
The crowd was cheering.
Me,
I'm steaming.
Because
this was bad. This was really bad. Understand what happened,
and don't gloss over it. Don't excuse it, as White did afterward.
Here's
what happened: After two minutes of outrage, an official scoring
decision was reversed right before everyone's eyes. Given UFC
judges' history of baffling scoring decisions, it's reasonable
to believe the judges honestly called the fight a draw. And that
White reacted to the crowd's outrage or his own personal shock
and sent word to the judges that their decision was wrong, that
one of them needed to change his card so the official outcome
could reflect what had actually happened in the octagon.
That's
a scary proposition, the UFC manipulating the result of a fight,
but the only other alternative is just as frightening:
UFC
judges can't add small numbers.
White
blamed it on the math.
"They
added it up too fast," he said, addressing the issue without
one of his signature f-bombs. "They looked at the wrong
columns. At least they figured it out. At least they got it straight."
Yes,
but only after the crowd went nuts and Grice nearly had a heart
attack and Black didn't know what the hell to think. Only after
all that, only after several minutes, was the mistake caught.
Sad
to say, this problem isn't exclusive to Saturday night. At UFC
63 in September 2006, Jorge Gurgel dominated Danny Abaddi and
then literally jerked his head in disbelief when the first judge's
card was announced as 29-28 for Abaddi. The UFC later amended
that decision, saying the judge meant to score the fight for
Gurgel.
Meant
to. But didn't. Scary.
This
has been going on for years. After his UFC debut in 1999, Jens
Pulver had his hand raised in victory. Moments later Pulver's
glee became gloom when it was announced that a mistake had been
made, that his UFC 22 fight with Alfonso Alcarez had actually
been scored a draw. Oops.
Now
there's the Grice-Black debacle, which wasn't even the only scoring
embarrassment from Saturday night. Here were some others from
UFC 77:
•
Josh Burkman's victory against Forrest Petz was announced as
a majority decision, then changed to reflect that it was actually
a split decision. As an added bonus, all three judges originally
thought Petz's last name was "Perez." On their cards,
"Perez" has been crossed out and replaced by "Petz."
•
Stephan Bonnar beat Eric Schafer by technical knockout, but the
official ballot originally listed Schafer as the winner. Somehow
that mistake -- unlike those involving Grice-Black and Burkman-Petz
-- was caught before being announced to the crowd.
•
Two official ballots listed the wrong referee. Two had a judge
wrong. And one judge thought victorious middleweight Yushin Okami's
name was Okami Yushin.
Taken
individually, each of those smaller mistakes is a humorous footnote.
But taken as a whole? On a night when Matt Grice's demolition
of Jason Black was originally announced as a draw? This isn't
funny.
This
is a problem.
It's
a big problem, Dana White. Fix your f---ing sport.
Source:
Gracie Fighter
|
Quote
of the Day
"Sports
do not build character. They reveal it."
John Wooden, Hall of Fame American Basketball Player and Coach
|
K-1
HERO'S OCT. 28 FIGHT CARD FINALIZED
Denis Kang, the No. 4 ranked middleweight in the world on MMAWeekly.com,
makes his K-1 Hero’s debut as the headliner on Oct. 28 in
Seoul, South Korea against Yoshihiro Akiyama at the Jangchung
Gymnasium.
Kang's
last fight was in South Korea where he defeated Junggyu Choi
by unanimous decision at Spirit Martial Challenge in March. Akiyama
last competed on New Year's Eve at K-1 Premium 2006 Dynamite!!
against Kazushi Sakuraba. He initially won the bout, but it was
later ruled a no contest.
Also
featured on the card is Dong Sik Yoon vs. Fabio Silva. Brazilian
Jiujitsu expert Marcelo Garcia makes his mixed martial arts debut
against Dae Won Kim, and former Ultimate Fighting Championship
welterweight champion Carlos Newton takes on Shungo Oyama.
K-1
Hero’s Fight Card:
–Denis
Kang vs. Yoshihiro Akiyama
–Dong Sik Yoon vs. Fabio Silva
–Taiei Kin vs. Zelg Galesic
–Ikuhisa Minowa vs. Min Soo Kim
–Tae Hyun Lee vs. Yoshihisa Yamamoto
–Dae Won Kim vs. Marcelo Garcia
–Carlos Newton vs. Shungo Oyama
–Min Suk Heo vs. Katsuyori Shibata
–A Sol Kwon vs. Daisuke Nakamura
–Bernard Ackah vs. Poai Suganuma
–Magomed Sultanakhmadov vs. Eun Soo Lee
–Masanori Tonooka vs RYO
Source:
MMA Weekly
|
Gurgel
not to corner Marcelinho
Alliance leader explains reasons for staying in Brazil
As reported yesterday by GRACIEMAG.com, the Jiu-Jitsu and submission
wrestling star Marcelinho Garcia is already in Korea for his
MMA debut in the K-1 Heroes ring, to take place this Sunday,
in Seoul. Among those accompanying the three-time ADCC champion
is Hermes Franca, UFC fighter, who has been helping him out in
his training.
There
is, however, a major absence in Garcia’s team: none other
than Fabio Gurgel, Marcelinho’s master and one of the leaders
of Alliance. GRACIEMAG.com contacted Gurgel, who explained what
happened.
“I
wanted to go, but a series of factors made my trip difficult.
When we managed to get past the complications, the event had
already sent the tickets and unfortunately Marcelinho will have
to go through this first challenge without me being there. There
is no attrition in our friendship. Even from a distance, I will
cheer a lot for his success in this first fight, for us to be
together for the next ones," Gurgel declared.
Source:
Gracie Magazine
|
Kazushi
Sakuraba vs. Masakatsu Funaki signed for "Dynamite!!"
K-1 has officially announced Kazushi Sakuraba vs. Masakatsu Funaki
in a 187-pound bout for "Dynamite!! 2007" in Osaka,
Japan.
Funaki,
a Pancrase co-founder and a 2-time King of Pancrase, announced
in July that he would return to MMA after seven years of inactive
competition. For his first opponent out of retirement, Funaki
expressed interest in fighting Sakuraba since he felt their styles
would complement each other.
Sakuraba
responded last month and agreed to the blockbuster fight after
defeating Funaki's student Katsuyori Shibara on the HERO'S Middleweight
Tournament Final card at the Yokohama Arena.
Source:
MMA Fighting
|
JOACHIM
HANSEN CONFIRMS SHOOTO RETURN
by Mick Hammond
It’s been nearly eight months since Norwegian lightweight
Joachim “Hellboy” Hansen has stepped into mixed martial
arts competition, but he confirmed to MMAWeekly.com that he is
set to return in November.
With
the selling of Pride Fighting Championships to the owners of
the Ultimate Fighting Championship earlier this year, he has
been one of many fighters under contract to the old Dream Stage
Entertainment regime that has been in limbo as the company transitioned
to the new American-based ownership.
After
spending much of the year keeping his skills sharp with kickboxing,
Hansen said that he has signed a one-fight deal to return to
make his return in Japan.
“I’ve
signed to fight in Shooto on Nov. 8 against Eiji (Mitsuoka),”
he stated. “I have been training hard and I feel in good
shape. I will bring mayhem with me to Japan.
“I
want to thank the faithful fans who supported me through this
time of oblivion. Even though I turned down the UFC offer, I
will be thinking of you people when I’m going into the fight
on Nov. 8. Now I can’t promise you victory, but I can promise
you this … Dark Norwegian Wrath!”
Despite
his confidence, Hansen’s return to MMA may not be an easy
one, as Mitsuoka is currently riding a three-fight winning streak
with his most recent win coming over ShoXC’s Brian Cobb
in March.
Hansen,
however, won his most recent match as well, a submission victory
over Jason Ireland at Pride’s final event this past February
in Las Vegas.
His
fight with Mitsuoka is part of one of Shooto’s biggest cards
of the year, to be held at the Yoyogi National Stadium Second
Gym in Tokyo.
Also
scheduled to appear on the show is current Shooto 123-pound champion
Shinichi Kojima, undefeated top women’s 115-pound fighter
Megumi Fuji, and former Shooto 143-pound champion "Lion"
Takeshi Inoue.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
Anderson
Silva
By Marcelo Alonso
"I have a good friendship with Chuck but I´ll cheer
for Wanderlei because he´s brazillian"
Absolute
In
special interview to TATAME, the UFC champion of middleweight,
Anderson Silva, talked about his victory over Rich Franklin,
in UFC 77, where he kept the possession of the American event
belt in a spectacular way. “He seemed to be stronger, more
motivated than the last time, it was difficult to hold his neck
in the clinch, it maybe seemed to be an easy fight, but it wasn´t”,
commented Anderson . The complete interview you find below.
Was
there any difference in this new fight against Rich Franklin?
He
seemed to be stronger, more motivated than the last time, it
was difficult to hold his neck in the clinch, it maybe seemed
to be an easy fight, but it wasn´t.
So
you think he came to this fight more well prepared?
Yes,
he was more prepared and was tougher.
There
are rumors that your next opponent can be Thales Leites, Ricardo
Cachorrão or another American. Do you know who could it
be? Do you have any preference?
Well,
I´m training hard to fight against the top fighters, so
this is what counts. I don´t have any preference. It can
be anyone.
Since
you´ve won the belt, all of your bouts was to keep the
title. Will it happen any bout without being to dispute the belt?
The
guys only fight to dispute the belt. I would like to fight two
or three times without disputing the belt, but think this will
not happen. But I´m ok, I´m very happy in Ultimate,
the guys treat me well, they do things right and I would like
to thank God, my friends and you from TATAME that are always
giving me all the support to continue doing my work.
Do
you think Shogun became tired or haven´t adapted himself
to octagon in his debut in UFC?
I
think that there´s a moment in life that you must stop
and analyze what you are gonna do and what you are not going
to do. He was married recently, and seemed that he didn´t
trained properly. I don´t know exactly what happened because
I don´t have much contact with him anymore, but he´s
a good athlete, has a good heart and must understand that defeats
happen in our life, it´s natural to have ups and downs.
I think he´ll return in great style, he must be calm, and
forget the past.
There
are people commenting that Wanderlei will debut against Chuck
Liddel. What advice would you give to him?
I
think the first thing he should do is to be together with people
interested in help him to reach his objective and train a lot.
I have a good friendship with Chuck but I´ll cheer for
Wanderlei because he´s brazillian but is a very hard fight
for both of them, but I think this bout will not happen.
Who
do you think that they will put to fight against Wanderlei?
There
are many fighters inside UFC so it´s difficult to say which
one they will choose, but there´s Quinton, Forrest Griffin,
many good fighters in this category.There´s Feijão
that will soon be entering UFC, and there is also Lyoto that
is training hard to get his space in UFC.
So
you confirm that Feijão will soon be in UFC?
In
my opinion he should already be there. I talked about him with
the guys from UFC.
Source:
Tatame
|
Quote
of the Day
"All
is in the hands of man. Therefore wash them often."
Stanislaw J. Lec, 1909-1966, Polish Writer
|
Kaleo
Kwan Fights
on ShoXC Tonight!
ShoXC:
Elite Challenger Series
Chumash Casino
Santa Ynez, CA
Live on Showtime
Friday, October 26 11 PM ET/PT
Undercard Streamed for Free Live on ProElite.com at 6:30 PM PT
*Interviews
& Weigh-ins Below*
Showtime
Fights
Aaron
Rosa (205 lbs.) vs. Jared Hamman (204 lbs.)
Javier
Vazquez (150 lbs.) vs. JC Pennington (149 lbs.)
Malaipet
(153.25 lbs.) vs. Kaleo
Kwan (155
lbs.)
Shayna
Baszler (131.25 lbs.) vs. Jennifer Tate (131 lbs.)
Muhsin
Corbbrey (153 lbs.) vs. Bobby McMaster (154 lbs.)
ProElite.com
Internet Bouts
Shane
del Rosario (225.5 lbs.) vs. Amedeo Viola (223.5 lbs.)
Giva
Santana (184.75 lbs.) vs. Jaime Fletcher (185 lbs.)
Chris
Cariaso (135 lbs.) vs. Rick McCorkell (135 lbs.)
Source: Proelite
|
Hawaii's
Most Wanted Tonight!
WAIPAHU FILCOM CENTER
FRIDAY OCTOBER 26, 2007
DOORS OPEN AT 6:00 PM
JASON NORRIS (JESUS IS LORD) 210 NAKOA (TEAM ANILAND)
JARRID IHA ( NO REMORSE) 140 DEVIN DAMO (ANIMAL HOUSE)
JUSTIN LONO (TEAM ANILAND) 135 KANIALA AHNEE (NO REMORSE)
RYAN KAOPUIKI (TEAM MIXBREED) 230 BLU MONTEZ (HMC)
RUBEN DEL ROSARIO(TEAM MIXBREED) 155 GINO TEVES (ALDEN)
KEPA KAHAIONAMAKAI (NO REMORSE) 150 JOHN (JESUS IS LORD)
JUSTIN KONIA (ANIMAL HOUSE) 175 SHAWN SAKATA (NO REMORSE)
CHARLES SPINHOWER (TEAM MIXBREED) 190 EDDIE OHIA (NO REMORSE)
RANDY KAMAIOPILI (NO REMORSE) 145 OLA SILVA (HMC)
WOODLAN KEKAOHA (TEAM ANILAND) 245 JORDAN PATTERSON (FREELANCE)
TIKI (ANIMAL HOUSE) 160 KAMAKANA CHOYFOO (JESUS IS LORD)
LESTER AGULAR (HAWAII CHINESE KENPO) 165 EUGENE IGE (ANIMAL HOUSE)
SHAWN LEE (FREELANCE) 145 CHRIS MIKASOBE (TEAM ANILAND)
TBA (HMC) 135 ALEX (ANIMAL HOUSE)
RICHARD BERNARD (HSD) 145 JOHN BARNARD (TEAM RUTHLESS)
JERELL MUNOZ (HSD) 140 COLIN MCKENZIE (TEAM RUTHLESS)
CHAD VALENTINE (HMC) 160 RICKY MURILLO (FREELANCE)
LAWRENCE HINOJOSA (TEAM RUTHLESS) 160 DARNELL MASON (HMC)
DALLAS KHIA (HMC) 140 VALANCE SCHMIDT (TEAM RUTHLESS)
MATTHEW FISHER (TEAM ISLAND THUNDER) 165 ADAM PALACIO (JESUS
IS LORD)
TONY PERRERA (WAIANAE KICKBOXING) 161 MAKANA FARONDE (BULLSPEN)
HOKU CUBAN (NAKOA FIGHT CLUB) 185 QUARRY SOARES (TEAM RUTHLESS)
KICKBOXING - HAND TO HAND W/ TAKEDOWNS - GRAPPLING ALL IN ONE
SHOW AND ALL GOING DOWN IN ONE CAGE. NO CRAWLING UNDER THE ROPES
TO GET RESTARTED. NO RESTARTING AT THIS EVENT. IF YOU GOT SKILLS,
YOU DEFINITELY BELONG IN THIS CAGE. SOME OF THE BEST SOON TO
BE MMA FIGHTERS WILL BE SHOWING OFF THIER SKILLS ON OCT 26. BE
SURE NOT TO MISS OUT ON THE FUTURE OF MMA TAKING PLACE AT THE
WAIPAHU FILCOM. (DAS RIGHT)
MATCHES AND PARTICIPANTS MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE
|
RANDY
COUTURE TELLS HIS SIDE
by MMAWeekly.com
Randy Couture kicked off his press conference on Thursday saying,
“I guess this is my opportunity to tell my side of things.”
And
tell his side of things, he did.
Couture
addressed many of the issues surrounding his recent resignation
from the Ultimate Fighting Championship, in every capacity, and
made it apparent that the moment had been a long time in the
making.
“I’ve
had issues with Zuffa and the company since they bought it,”
said the UFC heavyweight champion.
“Got
off on the wrong foot over the ancillary rights in my contract
and signing away my name and image, which then led to the video
game and having myself pulled out of the video game, pulled out
of the ad campaigns with Carmen Electra and all those things.
“Because
I wasn’t willing to just sign those things away like most
fighters had done to date at that point, I think that immediately
put me on the outs with the manager, with Dana and the people
that own the company.”
Of
course, everything always comes back around to money, but Couture
was adamant that the zeros on his checks were not the end game
in his decision to leave the promotion that he spent so many
years helping to build.
“This
was never a money issue,” he said. “It’s been
a prevailing feeling of respect that wasn’t being given.”
Couture
also addressed a recent report from Kevin Iole on Yahoo! Sports
that indicated he was to be paid “between $13 million and
$15 million” for his current four-fight contract.
He
handed out his bout agreements for his last two fights, which
indicated his pay for those bouts, but did not include pay-per-view
bonus money. For the recent fight with Gabriel Gonzaga, he was
paid a base amount of $250,000.
He
then proceeded to state that for his last fight against Chuck
Liddell and his return bout against Tim Sylvia, those pay-per-view
bonuses “amounted to about $500,000” per fight and
that the numbers had not come back yet for the recent Gonzaga
bout.
According
to his presentation, he stood to make roughly $750,000 per fight
on his current contract.
But
again, he circled back to saying that those numbers were not
the whole of his decision. He did not discount that money was
a factor though, saying that the last straw for him was when
Fedor Emelianenko was offered more money as a signing bonus than
he has ever made for a fight.
“I
am tired of swimming upstream,” said Couture. “I am
tired of swimming against the current.”
Source: MMA Weekly
|
Chuck
Liddell vs. Wanderlei Silva official for UFC 79
 
The long-awaited and much-delayed light heavyweight bout between
Chuck Liddell (20-5) and Wanderlei Silva (31-7-1) will finally
happen when the two step foot inside the Octagon Saturday, December
29 at UFC 79: Nemesis.
UFC
President Dana White made the announcement Tuesday night during
Spike TV's "Scream 2007," an award show which celebrates
sci-fi, fantasy and comic books.
White
said: "...We're adding to [UFC 79], the most anticipated
fight in mixed martial arts history, the fight that I've been
waiting for, the fans have been waiting for, finally it's going
to happen. The Iceman Chuck Liddell will face off against PRIDE
superstar Wanderlei Silva. So this is the perfect way to end
2007, and believe me when I tell ya, we've got nothing but megafights
in 2008, plus another season of The Ultimate Fighter."
The
two former champions will each be trying to avoid a third straight
loss. The 31-year-old Silva lost his PRIDE title and was knocked
out in his final two appearances for PRIDE. Liddell, 37, dropped
his UFC title at UFC 71 and was recently upset by Keith Jardine
at UFC 76.
Scream
for Liddell vs. Silva?
By Chad Edward
"When did I confirm Wanderlei Silva is fighting Chuck Liddell?"
Dana White snapped at a reporter from the podium at the UFC post-fight
press conference Saturday night, October 20.
The
reporter explained, "I talked to Wanderlei earlier and he
seems to think he's fighting Chuck..."
Tim
Sylvia smirked and shot back from the stage, "Way to get
him in trouble, pal." Sylvia turned to Anderson Silva's
translator sitting to his left and muttered, "What a dumbass."
It wasn't loud, but loud enough for the reporter to hear.
White
jumped in and said, "It's a possibility."
Evidently
White had confirmed the fight at the 2007 Scream Awards filmed
the day before in Los Angeles.
Today,
UFC Public Relations Spokesperson Rachel Trontel told me, "Watch
the Scream 2007 awards show on Spike TV tonight at 10 pm EST.
Dana is making an appearance and a big announcement."
I
had asked Trontel why the UFC.com description of UFC 79: Nemesis
had changed. Originally, the description read:
"New
Year’s Weekend in Las Vegas has become known for some of
the biggest fights of the year, and 2007 will be no exception.
For 13 weeks, Matt Hughes' and Matt Serra's teams on The Ultimate
Fighter reality show have been at war. Now, the coaches will
have their chance to face off inside the Octagon?, and the world
title is on the line. Then, the match-up that fans have waited
years to see is finally here. UFC legend Chuck "The Iceman"
Liddell will step foot into the cage to finally answer the challenges
of former Pride superstar Wanderlei "The Axe Murderer"
Silva. UFC 79: NEMESIS will be live Saturday, December 29 from
the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas."
Within
hours, the description had been edited, no longer including the
sentence:
"Then,
the match-up that fans have waited years to see is finally here.
UFC legend Chuck "The Iceman" Liddell will step foot
into the cage to finally answer the challenges of former Pride
superstar Wanderlei "The Axe Murderer" Silva."
This
follows DirecTV’s posting of a banner for UFC 79 featuring
Liddell and Silva last week.
Source:
MMA Fighting
|
COUTURE
& WHITE'S WAR OF WORDS
There
has been much speculation surrounding what Randy Couture calls
his “resignation” from the Ultimate Fighting Championship
and what the company's president, Dana White, refers to as Couture’s
“retirement.”
Through
confidential investigation, MMAWeekly has been able to obtain
the common language of the typical Zuffa, LLC agreement relating
to a fighter's "retirement." (Zuffa is the parent company
of the UFC.) It is unclear if this is the exact language in Couture’s
contract, but sources have confirmed that this is the standard
language used:
“If
at any time during the Term, Fighter decides to retire from mixed
martial arts or other professional fighting competition, then
ZUFFA may, at its election, (i) suspend the Term for the period
of such retirement; (ii) declare that ZUFFA has satisfied its
obligation to promote all future Bouts to be promoted by ZUFFA
hereunder, without any compensation due to Fighter therefore;
or (iii) elect to provide Fighter with notice of an Acceleration.”
Based
on White’s repeated public statements, it is clear that
the UFC is interpreting Couture’s statement of resignation
as retirement. Taken in the context of the above provision, this
explains why White continues to state that the UFC has nine months
remaining on Couture’s contract as Zuffa has elected to
"suspend" or stay the term of his contract.
Further,
the use of the term resignation in describing a person's choice
to not perform under a contract is unique. Typically, when a
person decides to not perform pursuant to the terms of a contract,
the person is considered to be in "breach of the contract,"
not resigning from the contract.
However,
when a party allegedly breaches a contract, he/she is able to
argue facts that justify and validate why he/she breached the
contract, which can/may excuse them from performing under the
contract. This may be why Couture is saying he is "resigning"
from Zuffa as he is claiming that the UFC failed to perform its
obligations by not acting in good faith and for its alleged misrepresentation
about his pay scale.
As
there are countless treatises on the subjects of personal services
agreements, the right to earn a living (Couture fighting elsewhere)
and involuntary servitude (the 13th Amendment; Slavery –
forcing Couture to fight for the UFC), this is definitely a fight
for the attorneys to wrangle about in court.
Before
this issue does become a legal wrangling, Couture plans to launch
the next salvo in this war of words on Thursday at his Xtreme
Couture gym in Las Vegas, where he has scheduled a press conference
to respond to White’s recent comments and the accusations
made by Kevin Iole of Yahoo! Sports in regards to Couture’s
alleged payout per fight.
Source:
MMA Weekly
|
UFC
77 Reported Salaries
By Nick Thomas
The
pay numbers for UFC 77 are in:
The
UFC 77 pay-per-view event produced a live gate of $2,519,850
(a U.S. Bank Arena record). A sold-out crowd of 16,054 attended
the show.
Anderson
Silva ($120,000) def. Rich Franklin ($45,000)
Tim Sylvia ($200,000) def. Brandon Vera ($100,000)
Alvin Robinson ($6,000) def. Jorge Gurgel ($7,000)
Stephan Bonnar ($44,000) def. Eric Schafer ($6,000)
Alan Belcher ($22,000) def. Kalib Starnes ($7,000)
Yushin Okami ($24,000) def. Jason MacDonald ($17,000)
Demian Maia ($10,000) def. Ryan Jensen ($4,000)
Josh Burkman ($20,000) def. Forrest Petz ($6,000)
Matt Grice ($6,000) def. Jason Black ($8,000)
In
addition to the salaries above, Silva earned an additional $40,000
Knockout of the Night bonus, Maia earned a $40,000 Submission
of the Night bonus, and Grice and Black each earned a $40,000
Fight of the Night bonus.
Source:
Bloody Elbow
|
BUENTELLO
BATTLES OVEREEM FOR WORLD TITLE
October
23, 2007; San Jose, CA….Heavyweight superstars Paul “The
Headhunter” Buentello (23-9) and Alistair “The Demolition
Man” Overeem (25-11) will battle to become the first Strikeforce
World Heavyweight Mixed Martial Arts Champion in history during
the star-studded Strikeforce mega-event at San Jose’s HP
Pavilion on Friday, November 16th.
“I
just gotta come at him and get in his grill,” said the 33-year-old
Buentello, who toppled former K-1 North America champion Carter
Williams during Strikeforce’s “Shamrock vs. Baroni”
live SHOWTIME PPV card on June 22nd. After a relatively competitive
first round, Buentello exploded in the early seconds of the second,
sending Williams to the canvas with a pair of right uppercuts.
“It’s really the same strategy as I used with Carter
Williams. Close the distance and don’t let him hit me from
the outside. Then attack on the inside.”
Both
seasoned strikers, Buentello and Overeem are expected to produce
fireworks in the cage with heavy exchanges of Muay Thai weapons
that they have honed at two of the most prized camps in the world
- San Jose’s American Kickboxing Academy (AKA) and Holland’s
Golden Glory, respectively.
The
27-year-old Overeem’s start will be his second with Strikeforce.
On June 9th of last year, he staged a dominant performance against
Vitor Belfort, earning a five-round, unanimous decision over
the Brazilian knockout artist in the main event of Strikeforce
“Revenge” at the HP Pavilion. The victory marked a
solid follow-up to Overeem’s conquest of Belfort one year
earlier during a Pride Fighting Championship event in Japan.
Amongst
his other notable successes in the now defunct Pride organization
was Overeem’s submission of Igor Vovchanchyn on June 26,
2005 and his stoppage of Sergei Kharitonov on February 26th of
last year.
Buentello’s
biography reads like a Cinderella story. A roller coaster ride
during the early stages of his career combined with lofty ambitions
prompted the self-trained competitor to leave his family behind
in Amarillo, Texas in search of world-class combat sports training
in California, a martial arts hotbed. In San Jose, he found the
support of AKA coaches Javier Mendez and “Crazy” Bob
Cook and, with their help, eventually rose to become the number
one contender in The UFC.
Buentello
suffered a disappointing defeat at the hands of UFC World Heavyweight
Champion, Andrei Arlovski, but quickly rebounded and reeled off
four straight victories last year, including a 43 second knockout
of mixed martial arts legend David “Tank” Abbott, to
arrive at his upcoming title shot with Strikeforce.
Presented
by BodogFIGHT, Strikeforce “Four Men Enter, One Man Survives”
will be headlined by the first-ever sanctioned mixed martial
arts tournament in the state of California. Slated to compete
in the four-man middleweight (185 lb. limit) playoff are Trevor
Prangley (16-4), Falaniko Vitale (24-7), Yuki Sasaki (21-13-1),
and Jorge Santiago (14-7). Brackets for the single-elimination
event have yet to be determined.
Tickets
for the Strikeforce extravaganza are on sale at Ticketmaster
(408-998-TIXS) and Ticketmaster online (www.ticketmaster.com)
as well as at the HP Pavilion box office (408-287-7070). Ticket
prices range from $30 to $300.
HP
Pavilion doors will open for Strikeforce “Four Men Enter,
One Man Survives” at 5:30 PM PST on Friday, November 16th.
The first preliminary bout will begin at 6 PM and the first tournament
bout will commence at 7:30 PM.
About
Strikeforce
Strikeforce
is a world-class mixed martial arts cage fight promotion which,
on Friday, March 10, 2006, made history with its “Shamrock
vs. Gracie” event, the first sanctioned mixed martial arts
fight card in California state history. The star-studded extravaganza,
which pitted legendary champion Frank Shamrock against Brazilian
Jiu-Jitsu black belt Cesar Gracie at San Jose’s HP Pavilion,
played host to a sold-out, record crowd of 18,265. Since 1995,
Strikeforce has been the exclusive provider of martial arts programming
for ESPN and, after 12 years of success as a leading, world championship
kickboxing promotion, the company unveiled its mixed martial
arts series with “Shamrock vs. Gracie.” Since then,
it has produced the first SHOWTIME PPV mixed martial arts event
in history with its world championship “Shamrock vs. Baroni”
card on June 22nd of this year followed by the first-ever mixed
martial arts event at the world-famous Playboy Mansion on September
29th.
For
More Information and Fighter Interviews, Contact:
Mike Afromowitz
Strikeforce
(917) 566-8754
muaythaimes@aol.com
Source: Mike Afromowitz
|
Quote
of the Day
“Spare
no expense to make everything as economical as possible.”
Samuel Goldwyn, 1879-1974, American Motion Picture Producer
|
PRANGLEY,
SANTIAGO, SASAKI COMPLETE FIRST CALIFORNIA MMA TOURNAMENT DRAW
October
21, 2007; San Jose, CA….Wrestling powerhouse Trevor Prangley
(16-4) along with rising star Jorge Santiago (14-7) and seasoned
road warrior Yuki Sasaki (21-13-1) will join Falaniko “Niko” Vitale (24-7) in the four-man,
single-elimination middleweight (185 lb. limit) mixed martial
arts tournament that will headline Strikeforce’s return
to the HP Pavilion in San Jose, California on Friday, November
16th.
Each
bout in the first-ever sanctioned mixed martial arts tournament
in California, which will be completed over the course of the
10 bout fight card, will consist of two, two-minute rounds. If
a draw is declared following the second round of a matchup, an
overtime round will be added to the bout to determine a victor.
Prangley,
a former national wrestling champion in his native South Africa,
has matured into one of the most feared competitors in the sport’s
185 pound weight class. The 35-year-old will put a five fight
win streak on the line during the tournament affair. His last
victory, a second round stoppage of Japan’s Yuki Kondo,
took place on July 14th.
Twelve
years ago, Prangley, an Olympic wrestling hopeful, left his birthplace
in search of superior training in The United States. After settling
in Couer D’ Alene, Idaho, he secured a wrestling scholarship
with North Idaho College (NIC) and went on to earn All-American
honors both years he spent at the two-year institution.
Following
his second year at NIC, Prangley discovered and fell in love
with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and, soon after, redirected his ambitions
towards establishing himself in the sport of mixed martial arts.
Six consecutive victories highlighted the start of his professional
career, beginning with a debut conquest of Joe Garcia by way
of knee bar on January 18, 2001. Prangley has since attached
himself to one of the sport’s most fearsome fighter breeding
grounds, American Kickboxing Academy (AKA), in San Jose.
Dangerously
quick on his feet as well as on the canvas, the 26-year-old Santiago
notched his single best conquest to date during his last effort,
a meeting with superstar Jeremy Horn, in Dallas, Texas on September
1st. With two minutes remaining in the opening round of action,
Santiago, after catching his far more experienced opponent several
times with quick hands, forced Horn to tap out from a triangle
choke.
Five
months prior to his showdown with Horn, Santiago used his tremendous
flexibility and agility to escape a brutal ground and pound offensive
and, soon after, an arm bar attempt by battle-tested Andrei Semenov,
before turning the tides on the Russian Red Devil team member
in the second round of their matchup and stopping Semenov with
a hard right hand-right uppercut combination.
A
native of Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, Santiago, who holds a black
belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, has found a new home at the American
Top Team in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Sasaki,
a 31-year-old submissions expert, has tasted success with nearly
every major mixed martial arts fight organization in his homeland.
Since he set out to become a force in the sport at the young
age of 19, the former Karate player has traded blows with a host
of elite competitors and triumphed over several big names including
Ronald Jhun and Alex Stiebling.
The
Japanese competitor made his debut in The United States before
a national Spike TV audience on August 7th of last year. Matched
with fellow grappling wizard, Dean Lister, during UFC “Fight
Night 6,” Sasaki escaped a deep triangle choke in the second
round of action and exhausted the American fighter to the extent
that Lister was unable to keep his hands up. After the close
of the third round, however, Lister was proclaimed the winner.
On
July 26th, Sasaki, in his first appearance since the loss to
Lister, returned to the win column with a quick, first round
arm bar submission of Bo Guk So in Tokyo.
The
winner of the four-man tournament playoff will potentially be
awarded the opportunity to challenge Strikeforce World Middleweight
Champion, Frank Shamrock.
Tickets
for the Strikeforce event, which will be presented by BodogFIGHT,
are on sale at Ticketmaster (408-998-TIXS) and Ticketmaster online
(www.ticketmaster.com) as well as at the HP Pavilion box office
(408-287-7070). Ticket prices range from $30 to $300.
HP
Pavilion doors will open for Strikeforce “Four Men Enter,
One Man Survives” at 5:30 PM PST on Friday, November 16th.
The first preliminary bout will begin at 6 PM and the first tournament
bout will commence at 7:30 PM.
About
Strikeforce
Strikeforce
is a world-class mixed martial arts cage fight promotion which,
on Friday, March 10, 2006, made history with its “Shamrock
vs. Gracie” event, the first sanctioned mixed martial arts
fight card in California state history. The star-studded extravaganza,
which pitted legendary champion Frank Shamrock against Brazilian
Jiu-Jitsu black belt Cesar Gracie at San Jose’s HP Pavilion,
played host to a sold-out, record crowd of 18,265. Since 1995,
Strikeforce has been the exclusive provider of martial arts programming
for ESPN and, after 12 years of success as a leading, world championship
kickboxing promotion, the company unveiled its mixed martial
arts series with “Shamrock vs. Gracie.” Since then,
it has produced the first SHOWTIME PPV mixed martial arts event
in history with its world championship “Shamrock vs. Baroni”
card on June 22nd of this year followed by the first-ever mixed
martial arts event at the world-famous Playboy Mansion on September
29th.
Source: Mike Afromowitz
|
|
BUENTELLO
BATTLES OVEREEM FOR WORLD TITLE
October
23, 2007; San Jose, CA….Heavyweight superstars Paul “The
Headhunter” Buentello (23-9) and Alistair “The Demolition
Man” Overeem (25-11) will battle to become the first Strikeforce
World Heavyweight Mixed Martial Arts Champion in history during
the star-studded Strikeforce mega-event at San Jose’s HP
Pavilion on Friday, November 16th.
“I
just gotta come at him and get in his grill,” said the 33-year-old
Buentello, who toppled former K-1 North America champion Carter
Williams during Strikeforce’s “Shamrock vs. Baroni”
live SHOWTIME PPV card on June 22nd. After a relatively competitive
first round, Buentello exploded in the early seconds of the second,
sending Williams to the canvas with a pair of right uppercuts.
“It’s really the same strategy as I used with Carter
Williams. Close the distance and don’t let him hit me from
the outside. Then attack on the inside.”
Both
seasoned strikers, Buentello and Overeem are expected to produce
fireworks in the cage with heavy exchanges of Muay Thai weapons
that they have honed at two of the most prized camps in the world
- San Jose’s American Kickboxing Academy (AKA) and Holland’s
Golden Glory, respectively.
The
27-year-old Overeem’s start will be his second with Strikeforce.
On June 9th of last year, he staged a dominant performance against
Vitor Belfort, earning a five-round, unanimous decision over
the Brazilian knockout artist in the main event of Strikeforce
“Revenge” at the HP Pavilion. The victory marked a
solid follow-up to Overeem’s conquest of Belfort one year
earlier during a Pride Fighting Championship event in Japan.
Amongst
his other notable successes in the now defunct Pride organization
was Overeem’s submission of Igor Vovchanchyn on June 26,
2005 and his stoppage of Sergei Kharitonov on February 26th of
last year.
Buentello’s
biography reads like a Cinderella story. A roller coaster ride
during the early stages of his career combined with lofty ambitions
prompted the self-trained competitor to leave his family behind
in Amarillo, Texas in search of world-class combat sports training
in California, a martial arts hotbed. In San Jose, he found the
support of AKA coaches Javier Mendez and “Crazy” Bob
Cook and, with their help, eventually rose to become the number
one contender in The UFC.
Buentello
suffered a disappointing defeat at the hands of UFC World Heavyweight
Champion, Andrei Arlovski, but quickly rebounded and reeled off
four straight victories last year, including a 43 second knockout
of mixed martial arts legend David “Tank” Abbott, to
arrive at his upcoming title shot with Strikeforce.
Presented
by BodogFIGHT, Strikeforce “Four Men Enter, One Man Survives”
will be headlined by the first-ever sanctioned mixed martial
arts tournament in the state of California. Slated to compete
in the four-man middleweight (185 lb. limit) playoff are Trevor
Prangley (16-4), Falaniko Vitale (24-7), Yuki Sasaki (21-13-1),
and Jorge Santiago (14-7). Brackets for the single-elimination
event have yet to be determined.
Tickets
for the Strikeforce extravaganza are on sale at Ticketmaster
(408-998-TIXS) and Ticketmaster online (www.ticketmaster.com)
as well as at the HP Pavilion box office (408-287-7070). Ticket
prices range from $30 to $300.
HP
Pavilion doors will open for Strikeforce “Four Men Enter,
One Man Survives” at 5:30 PM PST on Friday, November 16th.
The first preliminary bout will begin at 6 PM and the first tournament
bout will commence at 7:30 PM.
Source:
Mike Afromowitz |
Carlao:
Black House can move place but will never end
Last
week we received some messages in our forum saying that Black
House has ended. Before the rumors reached internet we went directly
to the source, Carlão Barreto, technical director of the
team. Although Barreto confirmed that the team can move from
its original house, he said that there´s no possibility
of Black House to close down. “The enormous growth of Black
House´s team brought up some administration problems in
the operation of the X-Gym Academy , but the members of X-Gym
and Black House are talking and trying an agreement”, revealed
Carlão.
“We
can move from X-Gym which is located in Recreio dos Bandeirantes,
but we are still training there as we always have done. We are
restructuring the team and getting new sponsors. As technical
director of Black House I would like to thank the fans that cheer
for Black House, the fans of Lyoto, Anderson, Vitor. You can
calm down that Black House won´t close down”, said
Barreto.
Source: Tatame
|
Mario
Sperry talks about his future at US
Few
weeks after leaving the direction of BTT and fly to , José
Mario Sperry passes through an important moment of transition
in his career. Although he still haven´t announced the
American state where he will definitely settle himself, Zé
Mario already have excellent indications of a good future in
. Besides an invitation to be captain in IFL, the black-belt
of Carlson Gracie was praised by the most respected and popular
MMA American fighter, the champion of the heavyweights of UFC,
Randy Couture. Couture said in the meeting to decide the rules
of the event that he won against Gabriel Napão, that the
training sessions with Zé Mario were very important for
his victory. In the interview you find below, Sperry also talks
about the polemic training with Couture and reveals his plans
for the future.
Zé
Mário Sperry
By Marcelo Alonso
"I went to his (Couture) academy and the reception was very
good. I asked him if I could train there and he said it was OK
in a very politeful way"
Few
weeks after leaving the direction of BTT and fly to , José
Mario Sperry passes through an important moment of transition
in his career. Although he still haven´t announced the
American state where he will definitely settle himself, Zé
Mario already have excellent indications of a good future in
. Besides an invitation to be captain in IFL, the black-belt
of Carlson Gracie was praised by the most respected and popular
MMA American fighter, the champion of the heavyweights of UFC,
Randy Couture. Couture said in the meeting to decide the rules
of the event that he won against Gabriel Napão, that the
training sessions with Zé Mario were very important for
his victory. In the interview you find below, Sperry also talks
about the polemic training with Couture and reveals his plans
for the future.
How
was your arrival in ?
I arrived in Los Angeles and gave many seminars. I still haven´t
decided where I´ll settle myself, I have to think a little
more.
Many
fighters are having difficulties in the transition of the ring
to octagon. Why is this happening?
I think, for example, that Shogun´s defeat happened for
many reasons, first of all because of it was another kind of
event. We were inside their country, in their event, with their
rules and there were some new rules like permission of using
the elbom, the period of the bout and the octagon. The air condition
in California was another reason. All this together can have
influence in the athlete´s performance.
People
say that the air condition in California is different. In these
ten days you were there have you felt something different?
I think that if you are well prepared and you arrive there five
days before the event, you maybe feel the time zone effect. Me,
for example, felt the time zone effect more in Las Vegas than
in Japan because in Japan it´s 12 hours and in Vegas it´s
five and it´s harder to get adapted. The air is more dry,
but I passed some vaseline on my nose and haven´t had problem
anymore.
Who
fighted in the octagon says that one of the most difficult things
is to block the opponent. You that already fighted in the ring,
agree with this opinion?
Well, I feel ease at the octagon, because it helps for the ones
who like to clinch and put down. But in general, the octagon
doesn´t help the Jiu-Jitsu fighters, because it has the
situation where you stay under and against the bars. In the ring
you can put your head outside the ropes and the fight goes back
to the middle and this helps a lot the ones who stay under. Who
stays over and it´s not used to fight in the octagon believes
that will finalize the position, and then the opponent stands
up, so it´s bad when you fight, fight, fight and finally
puts the guy down, but then he stands up again.
In
your opinion, what happened to Shogun in this last fight?
It´s hard to say what happened. I´m not his coach,
I haven´t made the follow up of his training, but he was
always an athlete that impressed me not only because of the technique
but also because of his physical performance. I believe that
the main reason for he to make such a bad fight is that he became
tired. But the reason for him getting tired so fast I don´t
know and I won´t give my opinion. What I think is that
he committed some basic mistakes. He haven´t reached the
position to do the half guard that it´s his strong point
and that he could use to sweep Forrest, and I think this happened
because he was tired. The option he had was to turn around with
his knees on the floor, but he haven´t done the half guard
and became tired.
And
in Cro Cop´s case? Why do you think he haven´t adapted
himself to the octagon?
It´s like I said before, that in the ring there are four
corners and it´s easier to drive the guy into a corner.
In octagon there are eight corners, so it´s harder to make
the fight strategy if you´re not used to fight in the octagon.
I think this was the reason for the defeat of Cro Cop, he haven´t
found the best distance and also became tired. When you become
tired, it´s like having a Ferrari in your hands but without
fuel to drive.
In
the press-conference of UFC 74 our reporter asked Couture how
Wanderlei has helped him in his preparation against Gabriel Napão
and he said that who really helped him was you. How did this
happened?
Actually, I was doing my market research here in and I went to
Las Vegas , and I wanted to keep my training sessions. I met
Couture in 1997 and we have a good professional contact since
then. I went to his academy and the reception was very good.
I asked him if I could train there and he said it was OK in a
very politeful way. I began my training there, for about ten
days and while I was there, he and other athletes came to me
and asked about ground training and I gave them some tips and
they also teached me something about wrestling training. Couture´s
academy is very well structured, like all the big academies of
North America . He has an octagon, a ring, a tatami area and
an area for physical preparation that´s very good. In Randy
Couture´s academy there are many people, many professionals
that are very interested and look after all kind of information,
and I was oine of them that went there to participate in the
training sessions.
Have
you seen Wanderlei during the time you were training there?
No, I think Wanderlei came after me.
Which
of Couture´s athletes has called your attention?
Forrest and Mike Powell were the athletes that liked most, but
there are many good fighters there and some I just can´t
remember their names. They like training hard, everybody wants
to grow in the fighting scene and this is important.
After
watching Forrest training have you imagined that he would make
a tough fight with Shogun?
Well, many people asked me if Shogun was gonna kick Forrest´s
ass, if the bout was gonna be easy and I said that it would be
a hard battle but I believed in Shogun´s victory for everything
that Shogun is showing in the last events. He would be the winner
against any fighter of his weight. But we were wrong…
How
are the negotiations with IFL, any good news or agreement?
I´m going to Las Vegas to a meeting with the guys from
IFL to decide some things and I believe that in January or February
of 2008 the team will debut.
How
many brazillian and foreign athletes can you put in the team?
Can you announce any name?
I will try to put some brazillian athletes at first, but if there
are American fighters interested it would be easier because of
the greencard and so on. But I will make this decision on this
week.
Talking
about Fury, do you think Toquinho will win the tournament or
it depends on the bout´s arrangement?
In this tournament, like in all other tournaments, the champion
would have to be lucky on the bout´s arrangement. It can
make things easy for one athlete or the other. I think Toquinho
has great chances of being the champion, but MMA has its surprises
like any other sport. The first bout is very important.
How
do you feel the growth of MMA in ?
I noticed this when I got here, when I was still on the check-in,
because the guys there ask if you are fighter, if you´re
from and so on… There are many bouts on TV and many events
happening. Like in , things are getting better, but here in everything
gets a great repercussion.
What
do you think of all these changes in with Wanderlei leaving Chute
Boxe and Minotauro making his team?
In
my point of view the main reason for these athletes to leave
their teams was the crisis in the Japanese market. Unfortunately
the Japanese market was kind of closed, we had few contacts with
the north-american market and we depended on the Japanese. Everybody
was surprised when UFC bought Pride, so the great athletes stayed
without contract and they grabbed the opportunities that have
appeared in becoming more professionals and decided to make their
own way. Many of these athletes already had the idea of creating
their teams. Many of them are reaching 30 years old and are already
thinking of retiring, and if they retire with a good relationship
with their team, I think they are doing the right thing.
Are
you following the MTL event? Who do you expect to be the winner?
I´ve been watching it and I´m cheering for Murilo´s
team because of the friendship I have with him and all the team.
But despite of this friendship, I really think that Murilo´s
team is the strongest although all the teams are very strong.
His team faced an easier team, it´s better represented
than the others so I believe that they will be the champions.
Source: Tatame
|
Quote
of the Day
“Spare
no expense to make everything as economical as possible.”
Samuel Goldwyn, 1879-1974, American Motion Picture Producer
|
Hawaii's
Most Wanted
WEIGH-INS
HAWAII'S MOST WANTED: FIGHTER
This THURSDAY, OCT. 26, 2007
6:30PM @ ILIMA INTERMEDIATE
91-884 Ft. Weaver Rd. - EWA BEACH
*Pass 7-11 in Ewa Beach and it will
be on the left off of Ft. Weaver Rd.
REMINDER: Those who are under 18 must be
accompanied by parent/legal guardian w/picture i.d.
NO EXCEPTIONS.
WAIPAHU FILCOM CENTER
FRIDAY OCTOBER 26, 2007
DOORS OPEN AT 6:00 PM
JASON NORRIS (JESUS IS LORD) 210 NAKOA (TEAM ANILAND)
JARRID IHA ( NO REMORSE) 140 DEVIN DAMO (ANIMAL HOUSE)
JUSTIN LONO (TEAM ANILAND) 135 KANIALA AHNEE (NO REMORSE)
RYAN KAOPUIKI (TEAM MIXBREED) 230 BLU MONTEZ (HMC)
RUBEN DEL ROSARIO(TEAM MIXBREED) 155 GINO TEVES (ALDEN)
KEPA KAHAIONAMAKAI (NO REMORSE) 150 JOHN (JESUS IS LORD)
JUSTIN KONIA (ANIMAL HOUSE) 175 SHAWN SAKATA (NO REMORSE)
CHARLES SPINHOWER (TEAM MIXBREED) 190 EDDIE OHIA (NO REMORSE)
RANDY KAMAIOPILI (NO REMORSE) 145 OLA SILVA (HMC)
WOODLAN KEKAOHA (TEAM ANILAND) 245 JORDAN PATTERSON (FREELANCE)
TIKI (ANIMAL HOUSE) 160 KAMAKANA CHOYFOO (JESUS IS LORD)
LESTER AGULAR (HAWAII CHINESE KENPO) 165 EUGENE IGE (ANIMAL HOUSE)
SHAWN LEE (FREELANCE) 145 CHRIS MIKASOBE (TEAM ANILAND)
TBA (HMC) 135 ALEX (ANIMAL HOUSE)
RICHARD BERNARD (HSD) 145 JOHN BARNARD (TEAM RUTHLESS)
JERELL MUNOZ (HSD) 140 COLIN MCKENZIE (TEAM RUTHLESS)
CHAD VALENTINE (HMC) 160 RICKY MURILLO (FREELANCE)
LAWRENCE HINOJOSA (TEAM RUTHLESS) 160 DARNELL MASON (HMC)
DALLAS KHIA (HMC) 140 VALANCE SCHMIDT (TEAM RUTHLESS)
MATTHEW FISHER (TEAM ISLAND THUNDER) 165 ADAM PALACIO (JESUS
IS LORD)
TONY PERRERA (WAIANAE KICKBOXING) 161 MAKANA FARONDE (BULLSPEN)
HOKU CUBAN (NAKOA FIGHT CLUB) 185 QUARRY SOARES (TEAM RUTHLESS)
KICKBOXING - HAND TO HAND W/ TAKEDOWNS - GRAPPLING ALL IN ONE
SHOW AND ALL GOING DOWN IN ONE CAGE. NO CRAWLING UNDER THE ROPES
TO GET RESTARTED. NO RESTARTING AT THIS EVENT. IF YOU GOT SKILLS,
YOU DEFINITELY BELONG IN THIS CAGE. SOME OF THE BEST SOON TO
BE MMA FIGHTERS WILL BE SHOWING OFF THIER SKILLS ON OCT 26. BE
SURE NOT TO MISS OUT ON THE FUTURE OF MMA TAKING PLACE AT THE
WAIPAHU FILCOM. (DAS RIGHT)
MATCHES AND PARTICIPANTS MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE
|
Aloha
State BJJ Championships
Sunday, November
11, 2007
Gym 1 at UH Manoa
Tournament Starts at 10:00 am
Go to http://www.hawaiibjj.com for information and
to register.
Please use this
email
if you need to contact me or call me at 722-7243
Also, the FAX has changed to (808) 941-8771 just in case someone
doesn't want to use the online registration and payment.
Please let me know if you have any questions, comments, or concerns.
Thanks,
David K. Hattori
|
FULL
FORCE MMA 3: "INFERNO" Results
Fight
1- 150lbs: 2R/3M +2M OT(amateur bout)
Jake "Mongoose" Noble (Team Issues- Haiku, Maui) def.
"Flyin" Ryan Cabrera (93 Underground- Kahului, Maui)
by KO (rear nake choke) at 1:32 of Rnd1
Fight
2- 175lbs: 2R/3M +2M OT (amateur bout)
Mike "Sasquatch" Sims (Southside BC- Kihei, Maui) def.
Schaffen Ramos (Kolohe Intentionz/Eastsidaz- Hali'imaile, Maui)
by OT DEC (unanimous)
Fight
3- 215lbs: 2R/5M +3M OT
Jake "Animal" Yasui (93 Underground- Waiehu, Maui)
def. Kekoa Baker (Fearless FC- Kapolei, Oahu) by TKO (ref stoppage
due to strikes) at 1:30 of Rnd1
Fight
4- 130lbs: 2R/5M +3M OT
Len "The Dragon" Gumboc (Maui Mulisha- Wailuku, Maui)
def. Abe "The Slingshot" Cortes-Kaleopa'a (Lava MMA-
Puna, Hawaii) by OT DEC (unanimous)
Fight
5- 165lbs: 2R/5M +3M OT
Mark "The Fireball" Stockwell (Maui Muay Thai- Waiehu,
Maui) def. Chazz "Doughboy" Moleta (Maui Mulisha- Kahului,
Maui) by SUB (rear naked choke) at 54secs of Rnd1
Fight
6- 150lbs: 2R/5M +3M OT
Brandon "The Viper" Visher (WKBC- Kula, Maui) def.
Tyler "The Pitbull" Kahihikolo (KBC- Kona, Hawaii)
by KO (punch) at 4:06 of Rnd1
Fight
7- 155lbs: 2R/5M +3M OT
Alan Hinojosa (WKBC/Impact Zone- Kahului, Maui) def. Kainoa "Mento"
Walther (Lava MMA- Puna, Hawaii) by SUB (rear nake choke) at
1:12 of Rnd1
Fight
8- Super Heavyweight: 2R/5M +3M OT
Lolohea Mahe (Maui Mulisha- Kahului, Maui) def. "Big"
John Rosa (KBC- Kona, Hawaii) by TKO (ref stoppage due to strikes)
at 2:33 of Rnd1
Fight
9- 145lbs: 2R/5M +3M OT
Eddie P. (Maui Mulisha- Wailuku, Maui) def. "The One Man
Riot" Kana Hyatt (Lava MMA- Puna, Hawaii) by TKO (ref stoppage
due to strikes) at 57secs of Rnd2
Fight
10- 175lbs: 2R/5M +3M OT
Matt "Gonzo" Gonzalez (Team C.O.C.K./Issues- Upcountry,
Maui) def. Coby "The Chozen One" Jones (WKBC/Brazil
Free_style_- Kihei, Maui) by KO (punches from inside guard) at
25secs of Rnd1
Source: The One and Only Kawika Veeka
|
FEDOR
SIGNED, SEALED AND DELIVERED... TO M-1
M-1 Global, LLC, a new mixed martial arts promotion under the
ownership of Sibling Sports, LLC, on Monday announced that it
had signed Fedor Emelianenko as the centerpiece of the organization.
Before
signing with M-1 Global, Emelianenko, currently ranked No. 1
in the MMAWeekly.com world heavyweight rankings, had been largely
considered the top free agent on the market.
“Our
goal… with the world’s greatest fighter,” said
Mitchell Maxwell, President and CEO of Sibling Holdings, the
parent company of Sibling Sports, “we feel that we can take
the foundation of mixed martial arts that has been established
by companies such as the UFC and Pride and K-1 and ProElite …
and sprint into the gun lap and take mixed martial arts to a
place where it is appreciated and seen as a sport throughout
the world.
“This
just wouldn’t happen without the world’s greatest fighter,
Fedor.”
Less
than one month ago, Dana White, president of the Ultimate Fighting
Championship, seemed positive that Emelianenko would end up in
his organization.
"I
think that Fedor, right now, the word is he wants to fight in
this Sambo event, but I won't let him fight in it if he's with
us. I think he's going to wait until he fights in this thing
in October, November, and we'll probably come to a deal with
him at the end of this year or the beginning of next year,”
he said following UFC 76 on Sept. 22.
"I'm
very positive we're going to end up with him. It would be crazy
for him to fight anywhere else other than the UFC."
Emelianenko
indicated that he went a different direction “because M-1
Global is not going to be a closed in company. It is going to
be a global open company. I will be able to meet with different
champions.”
His
manager, Vadim Finkelchtein added, “We didn’t sign
with the UFC because we would like to create a global organization.
We don’t think that today the UFC is a global organization.”
Speaking
to that point, M-1 Global’s president and CEO, Monte Cox,
said, “We really want to work with all of the other organizations.
A lot of people give that lip service, but we’re already
talking to other organizations.”
Maxwell
backed that up saying, “In Fedor’s contract with M-1
Global, we have a clause to offer the UFC champion $1,000,000
over and above what the UFC would offer their champion to fight
Fedor, and $1,000,000 to the winner of that fight over the general
purse for that fight.”
Source: MMA Weekly |
BROCK
LESNAR SIGNS WITH UFC
The Ultimate Fighting Championship on Saturday night in Cincinnati
announced the acquisition of one of the most desired free agents
in the mixed martial arts market, Brock Lesnar.
In
a brief interview with commentator Joe Rogan, Lesnar stated,
“I finally made the big time baby.”
Lesnar
only has one professional MMA fight to his credit, a win over
Min Soo Kim at K-1 Dynamite!! USA in Los Angeles, but he has
18 years of amateur wrestling in his background including a National
Collegiate Athletic Association national title. He also has extensive
training in MMA.
“I’ve
been training about two years now for this sport,” said
Lesnar. “I’ve always loved this sport. I’ve always
wanted to participate in it (and) I’m on the battleship,
the U.S.S. UFC.”
No
timeframe or opponent was given for Lesnar’s UFC debut.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
M-1
GLOBAL ANNOUNCES CEO MONTE COX
In a press release on Monday, it was announced that the newly
formed Sibling Sports, LLC is the company behind M-1 Global,
LLC, a new mixed martial arts company believed to be the new
home of highly sought after free agent Fedor Emelianenko.
It
was also revealed that Monte Cox, a veteran of the mixed martial
arts industry, was named President and CEO of M-1 Global.
Though
not stated in the release, it is commonly believed that M-1 Global
will, at a press conference on Monday, be announced as the organization
that has signed Emelianenko, currently ranked as the No. 1 heavyweight
fighter in the world by MMAWeekly.com.
"We
are excited to announce the formation of Sibling Sports, LLC
and our new mixed martial arts organization M-1 Global,"
said Mitchell Maxwell, President and CEO of Sibling Holdings.
"Mixed martial arts is the fastest growing sport in America.
It is the boxing of the 21st century.
"We
have pulled together a world-class group of people to lead our
new organization. Our new management team has extensive mixed
martial arts experience in Europe, Russia, Asia and the U.S.,”
he continued.
"We
are pleased to announce Monte Cox as our CEO. Monte has been
recognized as one of the most influential persons in mixed martial
arts in the world today. He is generally considered one of the
world's most successful fight managers, having produced a record
seven world champions in the Ultimate Fighting Championship and
built an impressive team of nearly 60 world-class competitors."
“It’s
exciting,” Cox told MMAWeekly.com. “I’ve accomplished
almost everything a person can accomplish in MMA. I’ve managed
world champions. I’ve take guys from the beginning of their
careers and seen them grow, helping them along. I’ve run
smaller shows. The one thing I haven’t done is I’ve
never worked for a big show.
“All
of us in MMA sit back and criticize and talk about how if it
was us, we’d do it different. Well, now I have that opportunity.”
"I
have been involved in mixed martial arts for almost 13 years.
While I have been offered many other positions over the years,
this is the first one that I have accepted,” said Cox. “I
am elated to have the opportunity to work with Mitchell Maxwell
and the great team of managers he has been able to assemble.
We look forward to continuing to move mixed martial arts into
the mainstream, not only here in the U.S., but worldwide.
"We
have developed an alliance with M-1 Mix Fight and we are honored
to be working with Vadim Finkelchtein, Apy Echteld, and Joost
Raimond. They have many years of experience managing fighters
and staging events in Europe, Russia, and Asia. Rounding out
our new management team are Bob Clark, currently serving as President
of Sibling Theatricals, and Brian Patton, a CPA, and business
manager for MMA legend Matt Hughes."
Source: MMA Weekly
|
A
WORD FROM THE ASIAN SENSATION...
…respect.
re·spect
1.
esteem for or a sense of the worth or excellence of a person,
a personal quality or ability, or something considered as a manifestation
of a personal quality or ability: I have great respect for her
judgment.
2. the condition of being esteemed or honored: to be held in
respect.
3. favor or partiality.
Boos.
They
seem to follow Tim Sylvia. Despite being victorious, it amazes
me at the lack of respect he continues to garner. Many antagonistic
fans have a preconceived dislike for the former champ and are
responsible for many disrespectful comments. It’s simply
unwarranted.
At
6’8” tall, the “Maine-iac” is one of the
most physically imposing heavyweights in Ultimate Fighting Championship
history. He may not be the most gifted fighter in mixed martial
arts, but his size and fighting style make him a difficult match-up
for most opponents.
People
waited nearly a year to see Sylvia face Brandon Vera. Did the
fight live up to expectations? Judging by post-fight responses,
a lot of fans were left in a state of listlessness. Conversely,
I may be one of the few who enjoyed the match. I was not surprised
by the fight’s outcome. In fact, it turned out almost exactly
as I expected, sans a knock out.
Sylvia
fought intelligently and used his size and strength to his advantage.
The first two rounds were a bit lackluster as both fighters were
unwilling to over-commit. Vera landed a few clean shots in the
first round, but Sylvia remained the aggressor and negated his
attempts to utilize his wrestling/grappling background. Vera
earned the subsequent round and Sylvia let his hands go in the
third, finishing the fight strong.
Is
it Sylvia’s intent to produce what some consider ‘uninspired’
fights? No. The Miletich fighter expressed on many occasions
that he’s determined to finish his opponents. Styles make
fights and no fighter can dictate the exact outcome of each and
every one of their match-ups.
It’s
unfair to verbally ostracize Sylvia for his proclivity to stand
and trade. Tim Sylvia is Tim Sylvia. His style can frustrate
his opponents and at times produce fights that fail to entertain
the fans. He utilizes what he knows and at this point in his
career I think it’s unreasonable for people to expect Sylvia
to change the way he fights.
Tim
Sylvia is not perceived as the most popular fighter in the world.
Arguing about that is futile. A fighter’s induction into
MMA history is based on his/her achievements and ultimately that
should be the only thing that matters.
He’s
been the winner. He’s been the loser. He’s been favored
to win and he’s played the role of the underdog. Tim Sylvia
is a former UFC heavyweight champion and has proven critics wrong
on many occasions.
Contentious
fans, please take note of his accomplishments. It’s time
to give Sylvia his dues.
The
Seemingly Indestructible Mr. Silva
He’s
been touted as the “Roy Jones Jr. of MMA”. He’s
a former Cage Rage and Shooto Champion. His striking accuracy
is deadly and the way he picks his opponents apart can be seen
as a thing of beauty. Behind the lanky frame lies his deceivingly
devastating power. Did I mention he has one of the best defensive
guards in the business?
Anderson
Silva continues to reign at the top of the UFC’s middleweight
division.
With
another impressive win over Rich Franklin, the “Spider”
proved why he’s widely considered the number one middleweight
fighter today and arguably the best pound-for-pound fighter in
the world.
At
UFC 64, Silva challenged then-champion Franklin for the 185-pound
belt. Critics were unhappy that he was given the opportunity
to contend for the title in only his second UFC appearance. He
proved them wrong with a first round destruction Franklin.
This
past weekend, their second meeting told of the same story. A
very game Franklin entered the Octagon with a renewed confidence
and a different strategy in place. Unfortunately, the Ohio resident
was once again unable to overcome Silva’s striking prowess
and experienced another knockout loss that left the former champion
pondering about his fighting career.
Silva
has been nothing short of impressive in his five appearances
and remains undefeated in the Octagon. If the Black House fighter
continues to be successful at this rate, it’s quite possible
he’ll surpass Matt Hughes and Chuck Liddell and be recognized
as the most dominating champion in his respective weight class
in UFC history.
Who
can beat Anderson Silva and end his reign over the 185-pound
division?
We
may never find the answer to that question.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
EMELIANENKO
WINS AT HCF IN CANADIAN DEBUT
Aleksander Emelianenko made his Canadian debut on Friday night
in the main event of Hardcore Championship Fighting “Title
Wave” in Calgary. And he didn’t waste any time, choking
out Dan Bobish little more than one minute into the first round.
Thomas
Schulte, a teammate of World Extreme Cagefighting welterweight
champion Carlos Condit at F.I.T. NHB in New Mexico, handily defeated
Ariel Sexton with a choke of his own and even bettered Emelianenko
on the timing, securing the submission 50 seconds into the bout.
The win also earned Schulte a belt of his own, The HCF World
Lightweight Championship.
In
the women’s bantamweight championship, Sarah Kaufman improved
on her unbeaten streak, defeating Ginele Marquez by TKO for the
title.
Hardcore
Championship Fighting
"Title Wave"
Friday, Oct. 19, 2007
The Stampede Corral
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Aleksander
Emelianenko def. Dan Bobish by Submission (Guillotine Choke)
at 1:09, R1
Gegard Mousasi def. Damir Mirenic by TKO (Strikes) at 4:46, R1
Thomas Schulte def. Ariel Sexton by Submission (Triangle Choke)
at 0:50, R1
Sarah Kaufman def. Ginele Marquez by TKO (Strikes) at 3:22, R2
Sean Salmon def. Marcus Vinicios by TKO (Strikes) at 4:22, R2
Ryan Machan def. Brad Cardinal by Submission (Kimura) at 1:44,
R1
Gerald Lovato def. Len Tam by Split Decision
Myles Merola def. Juan Barrantes by TKO (Strikes) at 1:04, R2
Andrew Buckland def. Lucas Rota by Unanimous Decision
Garret Davis def. Toby Johnson by Submission (Rear Naked Choke)
at 3:03, R1
Tim Smith def. Mike Rowbotham by Split Decision
Larry Lytle def. Steven Hachey by Submission (Rear Naked Choke)
at 2:08, R1
Source: MMA Weekly
|
Quote
of the Day
“The
most incomprehensible thing about the world is that it is at
all comprehensible.”
Albert Einstein, 1879-1955, German-born American Physicist
|
Fighters'
Club TV New Episode!
Channel 52
Tuesdays at 7:00 PM
Make sure to tell your friends and family!
Yes, we're
back! After a bit of a break due to Mark concentrating on his
fight at Elite XC where he was victorious, FCTV comes back with
another great show!
We
take a look at a new event, in a new venue, by a new promoter...Fighters
Journey!
Mark
interviews one of the top fighters in the world at 160 lbs, Cesar
Gracie student, Nick Diaz. This interview was conducted just
before his now epic battle with Hawaii's own Mike Aina in Elite
XC.
Mike
gets a chance to chat with another Cesar Gracie student and one
of the best at 170 lbs, Jake Shields.
We
have a very special guest for our technique of the week segment
that you do not want to miss!
As
always, your warm and inviting hosts, Mark Kurano and Mike Onzuka
tastefully batter back and forth for your entertainment and enjoyment.
|
Hawaiian
kickboxer joins Kau Inoa, places his name
Written by Public Information Office
Friday, 19 October 2007
Native Hawaiian MMA fighter Kaleo Kwan, right, signed papers
yesterday placing his name in the Kau Inoa registry. Kwan also
agreed to help spread the word about Kau Inoa. At left is Kwan's
trainer, Mike Onzuka. Lisa Asato photo.
Hawaiian
kickboxer joins Kau Inoa, places his name
The
Office of Hawaiian Affairs Hawaiian Governance Hale announced
yesterday a new partnership formed with professional boxer, kickboxer
and mixed-martial arts (MMA) fighter Kaleo Kwan. Kwan is of Native Hawaiian ancestry,
born and raised in Waimanalo.
Po'alima,
26 'Okakopa 2007, Kwan will be fighting in Las Vegas, Nevada
for ShoXC. Kwan’s fight will be aired on the Showtime national
network, where he will be wearing Kau Inoa gear.
"This is a great opportunity for us to embark on new territory
and gather more Hawaiians from across the US," said Kaelene
Nihipali of Hawaiian Governance Hale. "Please help us in
welcoming Kaleo to the OHA ‘Ohana, and show your support
for him in his upcoming ventures."
Kwan
has also agreed to promote Kau Inoa by appearing in a television
commercial urging Hawaiians to "place their name" on
the Kau Inoa rolls.
Native Hawaiian MMA fighter Kaleo Kwan, left, greeted OHA
Hawaiian Governance Hale Director Theresa Bigbie yesterday. Lisa
Asato photo.
Kwan is the second Native Hawaiian MMA fighter to partner with
OHA.
Earlier
this year, fighter BJ
Penn agreed
to support the Kau Inoa effort. He is currently appearing in
a multimedia campaign that includes print ads, radio spots and
television commercials.
Penn
fought for the UFC lightweight title in 2001, but lost in a close
decision. In subsequent fights, he went up a division to welterweight
and won the belt, only to have it stripped later when he left
the UFC.
Next
month, Penn gets another shot at the UFC lightweight title belt.
Kaleo Kwan and Mike Onzuka with the OHA Hawaiian Governance
Hale group, yesterday. Lisa Asato photo.
For
more information on Kaleo Kwan, please see http://www.proelite.com , or on his trainer
Mike Onzuka's site at http://www.onzuka.com .
For
more information on ShoXC, see http://www.elitexc.com .
For
more information on BJ Penn, please see http://www.bjpenn.com .
For
more information on Kau Inoa, please see http://www.oha.org
Source: Oha.org |
CSAC
CANCELS SATURDAY'S BRAWL FOR IT ALL
The California State Athletic Commission canceled the Brawl For
It All mixed martial arts event scheduled for Saturday night
in San Francisco, Calif.
There
was a sign at the parking entrance notifying spectators that
the event had been cancelled and that ticket refunds could be
obtained at the original point of purchase.
CSAC
executive director Armando Garcia decided to shut the event down
earlier in the afternoon because the caged enclosure that the
fights were to have taken place in was missing two of the support
beams according to a report on Sherdog.com.
The
cancellation appeared to be the culmination in a series of mishaps
for the event, which saw its fight card change several times.
The confusion over the fight card got the point where the athletic
commission on Tuesday issued its own updated fight card; a rather
unusual occurrence.
Source: MMA Weekly
|
Celebrities
to fight it out on TV
Press Release
Intuition Media Group and Mammoth Sports & Entertainment
are currently developing an MMA based television show. The show
presently known as "Stars in the Cage" is a celebrity
based reality show which will feature celebrities facing off
against one another in the cage. The celebrities will be trained
by well known figures in the MMA community. The stars will compete
and train as members of a team. The show will feature ten teams
with each team being comprised of one male celebrity, one female
celebrity, and one professional MMA fighter. In addition, there
will be live music during the show. Shooting is projected to
begin in spring 2008.
"Stars
in the Cage" is a joint venture between Atlanta based Mammoth
Sports & Entertainment and New York based Intuition Media
Group and has been in development for the past year.
Source: MMA Fighting
|
Cachorrao
signs UFC deal
Contract is good for six fights
On
first hand for GRACIEMAG.com, Ricardo Almeida revealed that he
has just signed a six fights contract with UFC. Cachorrao is
considered one of the most talented fighters today. The comeback
of Renzo Gracie’s black belt to MMA was scheduled to happen
early this month at Cage Fury Fighting Championship, but the
event never came through. Therefore, Cachorrao negotiated a deal
with Dana White.
Before
signing, Almeida looked into five different offers. His first
bout should be scheduled for the beginning of 2008. “The
final goal of my return was to get to the UFC, so I thought why
not go straight there at once,” said Cachorrao to GRACIEMAG.com.
Source: Gracie Magazine
|
Quote
of the Day
"Be
true to your teeth and they won't be false to you."
Soupy Sales, American Comedian and Actor
|
Hawaii's
Most Wanted
WAIPAHU
FILCOM CENTER
FRIDAY OCTOBER 26, 2007
DOORS OPEN AT 6:00 PM
JASON NORRIS (JESUS IS LORD) 210 NAKOA (TEAM ANILAND)
JARRID IHA ( NO REMORSE) 140 DEVIN DAMO (ANIMAL HOUSE)
JUSTIN LONO (TEAM ANILAND) 135 KANIALA AHNEE (NO REMORSE)
RYAN KAOPUIKI (TEAM MIXBREED) 230 BLU MONTEZ (HMC)
RUBEN DEL ROSARIO(TEAM MIXBREED) 155 GINO TEVES (ALDEN)
KEPA KAHAIONAMAKAI (NO REMORSE) 150 IAN DELAQUESTA (JESUS IS
LORD)
JUSTIN KONIA (ANIMAL HOUSE) 175 SHAWN SAKATA (NO REMORSE)
CHARLES SPINHOWER (TEAM MIXBREED) 190 EDDIE OHIA (NO REMORSE)
RANDY KAMAIOPILI (NO REMORSE) 145 OLA SILVA (HMC)
JUMAR ESCOSIO (ANIMAL HOUSE) 135 MAX HALLOWAY (TEAM RUTHLESS)
ROB CARLYON (HMC) 150 JOHN (JESUS IS LORD)
WOODLAN KEKAOHA (TEAM ANILAND) 245 JORDAN PATTERSON (FREELANCE)
TIKI (ANIMAL HOUSE) 160 KAMAKANA CHOYFOO (JESUS IS LORD)
LESTER AGULAR (HAWAII CHINESE KENPO) 165 EUGENE IGE (ANIMAL HOUSE)
JUSTIN KAHALEWAI (TEAM ANILAND) 90 THEODORE WALLACE (TEAM RUTHLESS)
SHAWN LEE (FREELANCE) 150 CHRIS MIKASOBE (TEAM ANILAND)
TBA (HMC) 135 ALEX (ANIMAL HOUSE)
RICHARD BERNARD (HSD) 145 JOHN BARNARD (TEAM RUTHLESS)
JERELL MUNOZ (HSD) 140 COLIN MCKENZIE (TEAM RUTHLESS)
THOMAS MATHIAS (WAIANAE KICKBOXING) 135 TBA
CHAD VALENTINE (HMC) 160 RICKY MURILLO (FREELANCE)
LAWRENCE HINOJOSA (TEAM RUTHLESS) 160 DARNELL MASON (HMC)
DALLAS KHIA (HMC) 140 VALANCE SCHMIDT (TEAM RUTHLESS)
MATTHEW FISHER (TEAM ISLAND THUNDER) 165 ADAM PALACIO (JESUS
IS LORD)
TONY PERRERA (WAIANAE KICKBOXING) 161 MAKANA FARONDE (BULLSPEN)
MATCHES AND PARTICIPANTS MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE
TICKETS AVAIL @ PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS
also ticket info. @ #450-1553
Source: Rick Lee
|
UFC
77 REVIEW: ANDERSON SILVA IS UNDISPUTED
Anderson Silva, the No. 1 middleweight fighter in the world,
put an exclamation point on that fact – yes fact –
on Saturday night as the Ultimate Fighting Championship landed
in Cincinnati, once again dominating Rich Franklin.
The
fight was much more competitive than their first go around, but
the result was much the same, with Franklin crumpled to the ground
following some devastating knees.
While
Franklin was aggressive with his striking throughout the first
round, Silva never seemed shaken, more or less appearing to bide
his time. In the second stanza, it was all Silva, who dropped
Franklin with a right hook before backing him against the fence
for the final onslaught of knees.
Silva's
performance underscores his current standing as the most dominant
fighter currently in the UFC.
But
he was as humble as ever following the fight, something that
seems to ingratiate him with American fans, despite his inability
to communicate in English.
“Rich
Franklin is a great athlete, a great person, a great champion
and he deserves everyone’s respect,” said the middleweight
champ through his interpreter following the fight.
Franklin
returned the respect, imploring his hometown fans not to boo
Silva.
“Just
about 30 seconds ago, I realized that I was in Cincinnati again.
He’s a great warrior and a class act, so please don’t
boo him.”
Former
heavyweight champion Tim Sylvia, in what was a de facto elimination
bout for a title shot, didn’t fight as exciting of a bout
as he had intended in pre-fight comments, but he did end up dominating
Brandon Vera and scoring a unanimous decision victory.
Sylvia
used his size to wear Vera down as the two continually clinched
throughout the fight. He got the better of the striking whenever
they separated, save for a stunning left hook by Vera as round
two opened.
As
round three wore on, Sylvia seemed to gain steam as Vera slowed.
The former champ opened a cut on top of Vera’s head in the
final moments before putting a statement on the win with a flurry
leading up to the final bell.
Following
the fight, Sylvia gave Vera his due, but then moved on to new
business calling out another heavyweight contender.
“There
is someone that I want to fight and that’s Cheick Kongo.
We really don’t know what’s going on with Randy, so
it could possibly be for a number one (contender’s spot).”
Asked
if he would now consider moving down to light heavyweight, Vera
dispelled any such notion, saying he would remain at heavyweight.
After
dropping his UFC debut to Kenny Florian, Alvin Robinson overcame
a difficult first round to dominate Jorge Gurgel throughout rounds
two and three. The Brazilian continued to look for the armbar,
but Robinson stayed calm, keeping himself in position to deliver
damage with a relentless ground and pound attack en route to
a unanimous decision.
“I’ve
seen tape on Jorge and he’s really good with the armbar,
so I was prepared for it,” stated Robinson after the fight.
“Jorge is a warrior, he came out ready to fight. He put
me in some trouble, but I was able to get out and get the win.”
Stephan
Bonnar continued his return following a nine-month suspension
by dominating round two-action against Eric Schafer. Schafer
continually tried to get the fight on the mat, searching for
a submission, but Bonnar continually made him pay for grounding
the action with a brutal ground and pound attack, earning a TKO
stoppage.
In
a middleweight bout between two up-and-coming contenders, Alan
Belcher put on a Muay Thai clinic on the face of Kalib Starnes.
It’s not that Starnes wasn’t dishing out some punishment
of his own, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Marvin
Eastman-like gash that Belcher opened over his right eye in the
opening round. The referee called a halt to the bout upon the
ringside doctor’s recommendation less than two minutes into
round two.
“I
would prefer to win by knockout,” said Belcher before a
disappointed crowd, but the second-straight victory raises his
UFC record to 3-2 and moves him another rung up the middleweight
ladder.
Yushin
Okami returned from a controversial decision loss to Franklin
in his last outing to dominate Canadian fighter Jason MacDonald.
The fight started off slow, but Okami shifted gears in the second
and third rounds, ground and pounding his way to a unanimous
decision victory. This win is likely to put Okami near the top
of the list for a shot at Silva’s middleweight title.
Brazilian
jiu-jitsu world champion Demian Maia wasted no time making an
impression in his UFC debut. He took Ryan Jensen down immediately
and finished him off with a rear naked choke about halfway through
the first round.
Josh
Burkman bounced back from an earlier loss to Karo Parisyan, if
barely, by winning a split decision over Forrest Petz in the
second bout of the evening.
Coming
into this fight, Burkman really felt like he needed a win, saying,
“My back’s against the wall. You lose two in a row
in the UFC and you might as well start looking elsewhere.”
Matt
Grice and Jason Black kicked the night off in style with a back
and forth battle, Grice earning the victory via a split decision,
but not before a little extra drama. The original decision was
read as a split draw, but after reviewing the scorecards it was
determined that Grice had actually won on two of the cards to
Black’s one.
UFC
77 FINAL RESULTS
Anderson Silva def. Rich Franklin by TKO (Strikes) at 1:07, R2
Tim Sylvia def. Brandon Vera by Unanimous Decision, R3
Alvin Robinson def. Jorge Gurgel by Unanimous Decision, R3
Stephan Bonnar def. Eric Schafer by TKO (Strikes) at 2:47, R2
Alan Belcher def. Kalib Starnes by TKO (Doctor Stoppage) at 1:39,
R2
Yushin Okami def. Jason MacDonald by Unanimous Decision, R3
Demian Maia def. Ryan Jensen by Submission (Rear Naked Choke)
at 2:40, R1
Josh Burkman def. Forrest Petz by Split Decision, R3
Matt Grice def. Jason Black by Split Decision, R3
Source: MMA Weekly |
Kimbo
Slice On EliteXC Card
By Brian Knapp
Famed YouTube street fighter Kevin “Kimbo Slice” Ferguson
will face Mike Rourke in his promotional debut at EliteXC “Renegade”
on Saturday, Nov. 10 at the America Bank Center in Corpus Christi,
Texas, according to representatives from ProElite, Inc.
Ferguson
does not yet have a professional MMA bout under his belt, though
he submitted former boxer Ray Mercer with a guillotine choke
in an exhibition match at a Cage Fury Fighting Championships
event in June. The fight lasted 72 seconds. Ferguson was scheduled
to face veteran brawler David “Tank” Abbott at a CFFC
event Oct. 12, but the plug was pulled on the show after promoter
Felix Martinez lost a “major investor.”
EliteXC
announced it had reached a multi-year deal with the 6-foot-2,
250-pound brawler last week. Ferguson trains under MMA legend
Bas Rutten.
EliteXC
“Renegade”
Saturday, Nov. 10
America Bank Center
Corpus Christi, Texas
EliteXC
Lightweight Championship
Nick Diaz vs. KJ
Noons
Jake
Shields vs. Mike Pyle
Kevin Ferguson vs. Mike Rourke
Seth Kleinbeck vs. Kyle Noke
Source: The Fight Network
|
Dana
White has a lot to say
If you’ve experienced any problems lately with the site
loading slowly or not loading at all, you’re not alone.
There’s been a lot of traffic hitting our server as of late.
Make
sure to get your picks in for the Hardcore Championship Fighting
show over at MMA Predictions.
Just
asking… If Monte Cox is going to be the CEO of M-1, how
is this any different than the situation Stephane Patry is in
with TKO (as both a promoter and an agent)?
Dana
White is laying the hammer down in regards to fighters who are
unhappy about their UFC paychecks. Fox Sports quotes White as
saying that Couture “belongs to me.”
“I’ve
got these guys for three-, four-, five-, six-fight deals and
then their contracts come up, why are they re-signing with me?
Why do they keep re-signing with me when all these other guys
are out there throwing crazy money around? Because we’re
paying these guys very well and we take care of them.”
And…
“At
the end of the day, he’s someone I consider a friend,”
White said. “As men, as humans, we all have our own paths
to walk down. I don’t know what he’s doing. The thing
that upset me is when he said me and [Zuffa owner] Lorenzo [Fertitta]
lied to him. Lorenzo and Frank [Fertitta] are good people and
never lie to anyone. This just isn’t the Randy I know, and
I’ve dealt with him for eight years. Does it hurt the company?
Yeah. He could have had one more big fight. But it’s not
going to hurt us long-term."
Source: Fight Opinion
|
Rudimar
Fedrigo
By Marcelo Alonso
“In the sport we have positive and negative results nobody
is absolute. Until the last bout, Shogun had a performance of
88%”
Leader
of Chute Boxe and promoter of Storm Samurai, Rudimar Fedrigo
conceded an interview to TATAME in which he confirms he has to
postpone the heavyweight final of the Storm GP. “We decided
to give more time for the athletes to prepare themselves because
it will be three bouts in only one night, with a very tough final.
All the athletes are understanding our position and it will be
a great show, a great final. The new date will probably be in
February”, said Rudimar, in special interview, where he
also talks about his new job as supervisor of the Sports Secretary
of Curitiba and also about Shogun´s defeat. The complete
interview you find below:
How
was the invitation to be the new supervisor of the Sports Secretary
of Curitiba ?
I was invited by the mayor Beto Richa, that´s considered
the best mayor in with 78% of approval. He invited me to be the
superintendente, that in reality will assessor the Sports Secretary.
It´s an important job and I want to continue the good work
that´s been made here in Curitiba , and create a special
project for the martial arts. I want to take all the martial
arts , Capoeira, Muay Thai, Caratê, Jiu-Jitsu, to the streets
terminals that already have spaces for sports and if possible
another project giving the chance for the people who don´t
have money to enter an academy to practice martial arts.
You
already have a social project that helps poor children. Will
you continue with this project?
This is a project of Chute Boxe that have the collaboration of
all the masters and we have about 100 children practicing with
us. We have a partnership with a school of the region and the
project is growing a lot. We even had graduation exams. It´s
being fantastic.
How
was the repercussion in the team after your nomination?
It was good. I expect to maintain the programs that already exist
and open the doors for the sports in general.
Do
you believe that the resistance of the media with MMA has decreased?
Sure. I think that the sport is growing here in but there are
still many things to improve. Soon the sport will be on a big
TV channel and with big sponsors. MMA is growing in every place
in the world where the sport exists. In , in the television has
increased 33% this year.
Will
the GP be realized in 27 of October?
No. We decided to give more time for the athletes to prepare
themselves because it will be three bouts in only one night,
with a very tough final. All the athletes are understanding our
position and it will be a great show, a great final. The new
date will probably be in February.
The
prize is still the same? A car for the champion?
Exactly. A new car is waiting for the winner.
What
do you think of Shogun´s defeat in the last fight?
Shogun himself explained what happened. He´s a young guy,
but is a great fighter and I have no doubt that in these next
three bouts of the event he can win the belt. He will return
more powerful. He knows what he wants and so do us. We learn
a lot with bad experiences and now we work for a better future.
In
your personal opinion, what was different in this bout? Many
pressure, the crowd?
Well, the event is realized in and the crowd cheers for the American
athletes, but as time goes by people will know better the characteristics
of the brazillian athletes. In the beginning this is natural.
Any
news about the team? Who will be the next fighters in the ring?
Cyborg its waiting for his fight, Ninja signed to make six bouts,
Daniel Acácio is being prepared to Fury in the end of
the year, Werdum is expecting to fight in UFC, he´s ready
for it. There are new athletes coming, a new generation with
only 18 years. I can name Junior Santos and Pel, you will hear
good things about these kids.
After
Shogun´s defeat and with other defeats in the team, many
people are commenting that the team is in crisis. What can you
say about this?
In the sport we have positive and negative results nobody is
absolute. The follow-up of the next bouts will show that everything
is ok. Until the last bout, Shogun had a performance of 88%.
Wanderlei had 85%, so we are doing a good job, we are a strong
team, and we are doing a good preparation. Each athlete knows
what is his aim and some changes will be announced as times goes
by. Our plan is being well executed.
How
is the team reacting with all this changes, with Wanderlei going
to and with Werdum´s arrival?
It´s good, these changes are natural, it happens in any
kind of work. We are very calm and expecting Wanderlei to have
success in his debut. Werdum is well integrated to the team.
He should have come to Chute Boxe before but now is the moment
and we are very happy with his participation inside the team.
Source: Tatame
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Quote
of the Day
"Acting
is a question of absorbing other people's personalities
and adding some of your own experience."
Paul Newman, American Actor and Film Director
|
BJ
Penn UFC
Fight Postponed to Super Bowl Weekend!
By Loretta Hunt
Former UFC welterweight champion BJ Penn might not grace the
Octagon at Dec. 29’s UFC 79 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center
in Las Vegas. The popular Hawaiian lightweight, who once tangled
with current UFC light heavyweight fighter Lyoto Machida at heavyweight
in Japan’s K-1 HERO’S, might be moved to fight a month
later during UFC’s Super Bowl weekend festivities.
Penn
(11-4-1) will face either UFC lightweight champion Sean Sherk
(31-2-1) or contender Joe Stevenson (28-7-1). On Oct. 31, Sherk
appeals a yearlong suspension handed down by the California State
Athletic Commission for steroid use following his successful
July 7 title defense over Hermes Franca (18-6) at UFC 73 in Sacramento,
Calif. If Sherk is unable to get a reduced suspension, Stevenson
confirmed to The Fight Network last month that he he will step
into the role if need be. Xtreme Couture’s Stevenson has
lit a fire in the cage since his turn on “The Ultimate Fighter
2,” clocking in four straight victories. In August, Stevenson
earned a decisive unanimous decision win over Kurt Pellegrino
(10-3) at UFC 74 “Respect.”
Even
with the loss of Penn, UFC 79 doesn't seem devoid of star power.
The culmination of Spike TV's "The Ultimate Fighter 6"
will see coaches Matt Hughes and Matt Serra collide that night,
while it is all but announced that former UFC light heavyweight
champion Chuck Liddell will get his long-awaited match with former
PRIDE champion Wanderlei Silva.
Source: Fight Network
|
COUTURE
AGENT REFUTES REPORTED SALARY NUMBERS
“Not Even in the Ballpark,” He Says
By Brian Knapp
A
published report placing UFC heavyweight champion Randy Couture’s
contract agreement at four fights for between $13 and $15 million
was not accurate, according to Matt Walker, Couture’s agent
at The Gersh Agency.
Kevin
Iole, of Yahoo! Sports, cited “non-UFC sources” in
the report and indicated pay-per-view percentages were included
in the figures, which would put Couture’s earning potential
at between $3.25 and $3.75 million per fight. Couture earned
a $250,000 purse for each of his last two fights.
“Based
on Randy’s contract, $3.25 to $3.75 million is not even
in the ballpark,” Walker said. “It’s beyond exaggerated.
He’d never make that. I know what he’s been paid; I've
seen the pay-per-view numbers. The numbers that are being thrown
around are not accurate. Whoever gave that information does not
have their facts straight.”
Iole
told The Fight Network he stands by his report.
Walker
reiterated that compensation was only one of the many factors
that led to Couture’s decision to walk away from the UFC.
“Going forward, people need to realize this is a decision
made not on the money but on principle,” he said. “Randy
is a man built on integrity and character. It’s about respect,
appreciation and Randy not having the opportunity to fight Fedor
[Emelianenko]. He has nothing left to prove in the UFC.”
Couture
resigned from the promotion one week ago today, leaving two contracted
fights, his job as an on-air analyst and the UFC heavyweight
championship on the table. His abrupt departure dealt a significant
blow to the world’s most visible MMA organization. Couture
was not only a beloved competitor – UFC president Dana White
once called him “the greatest fighter in UFC history”
– but also a revered spokesman for a company that had long
struggled to gain mainstream acceptance.
In
Cincinnati to promote UFC 77 “Hostile Territory,” White
took aim at Walker and the manner in which Couture’s resignation
was handled during a news conference today.
“It
was done very Hollywood,” White said. “He’s shooting
a movie in South Africa. His agent releases all this information.
The timing, the way everything was done, it was pretty s—tty.”
White
also called Couture’s motives into question. “Couture
is up to something,” he said. “I don’t know what
the end game is here. He just signed a new contract he was thrilled
with eight months ago. Eight months later, now apparently he’s
not happy with it.”
Couture
made his MMA debut at UFC 13 in 1997, where, at age 33, he defeated
Tony Halme and Steven Graham on the same night to win a heavyweight
tournament. Just seven months later, he ousted famed kickboxer
Maurice Smith in Yokohama, Japan to win the UFC heavyweight crown
for the first time.
Couture
remains the only man to win UFC championships in two weight classes,
as he held both the heavyweight and light heavyweight titles.
White believes his departure will have a minimal long-term impact
on the Las Vegas-based promotion.
From
Walker’s perspective, White’s comment represents another
slap in the MMA icon’s face. “He’s so revered,
but the UFC hasn't appreciated the dedication he brought to both
the league and the sport,” Walker said. “A Randy Couture
comes around once in a lifetime.”
*
Couture is a paid on-air analyst and host for The Fight Network.
Source: The Fight Network
|
The
Japanese MMA landscape is fraught with peril
By Jeff Comstock
Pride Worldwide abruptly shuts down operations, citing “uncooperative
staff from Dream Stage Entertainment” – Pride’s
former parent company, as the reason for the company’s inability
to conduct business operations in Japan. This might seem surprising
if it weren’t for the documented reasons for Pride’s
financial collapse and subsequent sale in the first place.
FightOpinion.com’s
archives are full of such documentation but perhaps a little
analysis of foreign investment in Japan and the problems faced
with doing so is in order. In particular when it comes to dealing
with Japan’s organized crime syndicates. Due-diligence when
investing in Japan often involves employing as many former FBI
and other law enforcement agents, as it does accountants.
On
November 6, 2001, the Japan Society heard a panel of experts
on Japan’s underworld share their knowledge of Yakuza behavior
and debate the extent of financial risk to foreign investors.
Yakuza Inc.: Foreign Investment Meets Organized Crime in Japan,
Robert Whiting, author of Tokyo Underworld states:
“If
your standard is that you will not do business with any firm
with connections to the Yakuza, you might as well not come to
Japan.”
Source: Fight Opinion
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EliteXC
quietly making moves while UFC is in turmoil
By: Adam Morgan
While the big news in mixed martial arts over the past two days
has obviously been the resignation of Randy Couture from the
UFC and the aftershock of his statements towards UFC management,
EliteXC has been quietly making some big moves to sign marquee
talent.
Over
the past two days they have signed ex-UFC fighter Nick Diaz to
a long term contract as well as everyone’s favorite YouTube
fighter, Kimbo Slice.
Diaz
had a pretty big fan following in the UFC and now has an even
larger one due to his decisive and stunning submission victory
over Takanori Gomi at PRIDE 33. Diaz is charismatic, not afraid
to say what he feels, and is a very marketable guy. He trains
hard, he fights hard (that’s an understatement), and he
brings a very good skill set to the cage. His boxing is good,
his jiu jitsu is fantastic, and he is spectacular at winning
scrambles.
Although
I don’t like the idea of creating a weight class specifically
for Nick Diaz, I feel 160 lbs. is the best possible weight for
him. 155 is too tough to get down to and he is too small for
170. So while I don’t like the idea of creating new weight
classes and muddying up the rankings, I do feel this is the best
possible weight for Nick to fight at. Since I have no control
over the weight classes, I guess I’ll just enjoy it.
Either
way, signing a fighter the caliber of Nick Diaz is big for EliteXC.
They are coming to a point where they need to start creating
marquee stars and Diaz is one of those guys that can give EliteXC
a face. Kimbo, however, can be the real steal of the past couple
of days.
While
the signing of Slice may be a somewhat controversial one, the
fact of the matter is that he’s marketable as hell. He’s
already got the fanbase from his internet videos plus a growing
MMA fanbase who see that he is taking the sport seriously and
training with world class guys. He’s a promoter’s dream.
A rags to riches story, a physically imposing character, a built
in fanbase, and his name is Kimbo Slice for crying out loud.
If you root for guys like Charles Bennett and Jorge Masvidal,
your better be able to root for Kimbo, too.
While
we have yet to see the full extent of what Kimbo can and cannot
do inside the cage, we have seen him show, at the very least,
that he is taking the sport seriously and that he should be taken
seriously. What’s done is done, and what’s in the past
is in the past. The here and now is that Kimbo Slice is signed
to a legitimate mixed martial arts promotion, is training with
Bas Rutten, Shawn Tompkins, and has plans to stick around for
awhile.
The
heavyweight division in EliteXC is something we haven’t
seen a whole lot of. Most of the heavyweight fights have been
buried on the undercards and they have yet to crown a heavyweight
champion. Kimbo will be brought along slowly just like Gina Carano
is being handled. If there’s a guy who knows how to handle
this kind of situation, it’s Gary Shaw.
Here’s
to hoping EliteXC sticks around for awhile and continues to do
good things. I think the signing of Kimbo Slice and Nick Diaz
to long term contracts are a step in the right direction.
Source: Five Ounces of Pain
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Bart
Palaszewski: Two victories away from IFL 155-lb. title
By Chris Yucus
Bart “Bartimus” Palaszewski says he’s never been
in a street fight. “The closest I’ve came is having
somebody push me at a bar, I just went and got the bouncers,”
he says. It’s not surprising after you’ve spent anytime
speaking with him, and experience his laid back and respectful
demeanor. For Palaszewski MMA is a labor of love, not a reflection
of street survival. He’s a gentleman in a sport that has
it share of ruffians.
When
Palaszewski, who hails from Wonder Lake, IL, tells the tale of
how he got involved in MMA, he says the name Jeff Curran frequently.
He refers to Curran as his “mentor,” and the vast amount
of respect he has for Curran is obvious. Palaszewski, 24, started
training at Curran Martial Arts in April 1999, only 3 years removed
from his native Poland. It was in December of that year, that
Palaszewski would have his introduction to the world of MMA,
when Curran invited him to watch one of his locally produced
XFO shows.
“I
wasn’t sure what the show was about, I just kind of went
along with it,” Palaszewski, says. “I didn’t even
know that MMA existed,” he continues, “but when I saw
that show I fell in love with it.”
After
witnessing his first MMA event, Palaszewski was eager to embark
on his own MMA career. He stayed under Curran’s tutelage,
begging to begin his fighting career, “until one day he
decided I was old enough to fight.”
After
a stint in the amateur ranks, Palaszewski turned pro in 2002.
He lost his first four professional fights, but quitting never
entered his mind. “I didn’t care” says Palaszewski,
as fighting was more than him to than just wins and losses. “In
the long run, it might have hurt me having all those losses on
my record,” says Palaszewki, who currently sports a record
of 28-9.
In
a growing sport like MMA, early career losses don’t carry
near the weight they would in other combat sports like boxing.
Palaszewski is a testament this, as he is currently one of MMA’s
up and comers at 155 pounds. He is now far removed from his inauspicious
start, only two victories away from becoming the first lightweight
champion of the IFL.
Palaszewski
will face a stern test in his quest to become an IFL champ. On
November 3rd, he will rematch against Chris Horodecki in the
IFL individual Grand Prix Semi-finals. Horodecki handed Palaszewski
his first loss in the IFL, garnering a split decision win in
February of this year.
Palaszewski’s
calm demeanor shows through in the interview process. He makes
it clear that he does not have any personal grudge against Horodecki,
in fact he praises him as a good fighter. In a time where so
many fighters take any opportunity they can to trash talk and
belittle their opponents, Palaszewski is a breath of fresh air.
Sure, he would like to avenge the loss, but the most important
thing to him is simply “to put on a good show for the fans”.
It
is this dedication to entertainment that has provided fans of
“Bartimus,” a nickname given to Palaszewski from Curran,
with plenty of great matches. He has ended 11 of his fights by
(T)KO, a mark very high for a lightweight. Palaszewski’s
stand and bang mentality is all for the fans, if entertainment
wasn’t an issue he would try and utilize more jiu-jitsu,
which he considers his strongest asset as a fighter.
On
November 3rd, Palaszewski will use every ounce of his punching
power, to try and finish Horodecki and not leave the fight in
the hands of the judges. If he succeeds in winning the fight,
and avenging his prior loss, he will be only one fight away from
becoming the lightweight champion of the IFL. Not too bad for
someone who started off 0-4 as a pro.
Source: MMA Fighting
|
Minotauro
on Randy's exit
Brazilian may fight for the HW belt
Randy
Couture’s resignation shocked not only his fans, but an
entire weight division of UFC fighters. The old guy’s sudden
decision to leave the organization left the heavyweight tilte
vacant.
It
is only natural that a lot of rumors come up at this point. As
GRACIEMAG.com informed before, Rodrigo Minotauro’s next
fight was almost certain to be against French kickboxer Cheick
Congo, but things changed completely. As the division cannot
stay without a champion, it has been said that Minotauro could
fight for the title with the winner of Tim Sylvia vs. Brandon
Vera, scheduled this Saturday, at UFC 77.
We
went after the Brazilian fighter and he said he was sorry about
Couture’s withdrawl: “I am really sad. I really wanted
to fight him. I hope there’s a chance he comes back.”
Minotauro also said that there’s been a change of plans
with Couture’s decision. “My strategy will change,
once I will no longer have to face such a experienced and skilled
guy to get to the title. My next fight is set to take place on
February 3rd, but I’m uncertain about the opponent. If it’s
kongo, it will not be for the title; If it’s Vera or Sylvia,
the belt will be for grabs. I’m flying to the USA to watch
Anderson Silva’s bout and I’ll probably know who’s
going to be my adversary,” completed the former Pride champion.
Source: Gracie Magazine
|
Matt
Hughes vs. Matt Serra official for UFC 79: Nemesis
The UFC officially announced Wednesday that Matt Serra will defend
his welterweight title against Matt Hughes on December 29 at
UFC 79: Nemesis from the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas.
Tickets
go on sale 10am PT on Sunday, October 21 for UFC Fight Club members.
Newsletter subscribers can purchase tickets Tuesday, October
23 at 10am PT by entering "PUNCH" as the pre-sale code.
Tickets for the general public starts Wednesday, October 24 at
10am PT.
Source: MMA Fighting
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