FIGHTERS COVER (DEC'10) A-W
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BRINGING MARTIAL ARTS TO LIFE!!!
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MARTIALARTSSHOW the
CAGE
DECEMBER/JANUARY 2011 £3.95
www.fightersmag.co.uk
THE NEC BIRMINGHAM 7TH & 8TH MAY 2011
WARS Evolution Not Revolution!
PACQUIAO TO MAYWEATHER... You Don’t Belong in The Same Ring as me!
FEMALE CAGE FIGHT! UK’s Top MMA Organisation Debuts First Ever Female Fight
DEREK CHISORA Heavyweight Boxing Champion of The World?
UFC CONFIDENT ...of Four to Six UK Events in 2011
IRISH SECTION News & Views From The Emerald Isle
RISE OF A CHAMPION! Elite FC
KICKBOXING - MUAY THAI - MMA - K-1 - BOXING
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EFC002/03
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CONTENTS
CONTENTS
6
NEWS ROUND-UP Domestic & International
10
THE NEIL ADAMS SUBMISSION CLINIC By Fergus Dullaghan
12
JFCC JUNIOR FULL CONTACT COUNCIL Fight Preparation
18
UNFIT2FIGHT With Mark ‘Wartime’ Carling
22
NEW!!! FIGHTERS IRISH SECTION All The Latest News & Views From ‘The Emerald Isle’ inc... Aisling Daly, Graham Boylan & Cage Warriors, Norman Parke and Cage Contenders
36
EVOLUTIONS GOLDEN BOY! Evolution Not Revolution
40
DEREK CHISORA A Different Perspective
42
CASSIE ROBINSON Rumbling at The Reebok
44
ISKA & MANNATECH Join Forces to Aid Their Athletes
46
RICHARD SMITH’S BAD COMPANY Clinchwork & Elbows Seminar
49
BIGFIGHT LIVE By Alexander Evans
52
EFC THE ULTIMATE BATTLE Rise of a Champion
58
STRIKEFORCE Feijao Shocks ‘King Mo’
62
MARTIAL COMBAT 11 Evolve MMA Rules The Roost
66
MARTIAL COMBAT 12 Stunning Finale For Asia’s Biggest MMA Event
70
HISTORY IN THE MAKING 4 @ Kelham Hall
74
ROUND 2 WAKO Pro Show
78
WORLD TITLE SELL OUT World Championship Kickboxing
EDITORIAL Well, as another year draws to a close there is no doubt that 2010 has been a big year on the Fighting scene! One thing is for sure, Full Contact martial arts just seem to go from strength to strength and in particular 2011 is looking pretty amazing for the whole MMA scene. This sport just seems to keep on growing and next year is looking BIG! Who knows, maybe we will even have a British UFC title holder? Back to this months mag and once again we have it covered! From the first born of the mother art to Muay Thai, from MMA to Kickboxing, we’ve got something to interest everyone! We even have an interesting insight into one of Britain’s brightest boxing prospects, Derek Chisora on the eve of his big heavyweight title showdown with current champ Wladimir Klitschko. We take a unique look at Derek’s path to a title shot, from the first time he walked through the doors of his local boxing club to a few short years later being catapulted into the number one contenders spot for the unified Heavyweight Belt. Sound Unbelievable? Read on... Back on the MMA scene we take a look at the rise of Cage Wars Championships and talk to CEO Patrick Mooney about his plans for the future and what he has in store for 2011 to continue making CWC bigger and better. Mark ‘Wartime’ Carling continues his regular look at the British MMA scene and this month gives us a rare insight into what it is like for a professional fighter before, during and after a big fight on his continued journey from writer to fighter. As usual we have all the latest news from Ireland in our Irish MMA section, this month including an exclusive piece on Women’s MMA superstar Aisling Daly and her continued efforts to concquer the US. There is also a look at two of Ireland’s biggest organisations, Cage Warriors and Cage Contenders. This month’s tournament round up section is jam packed with top names from across the entire full contact spectrum. We’ve got a full review of the latest night of action from one of the UK’s biggest growing championships, EFC. Every fight from this exciting action packed night of Mixed Martial Arts is covered, along with some amazing pictures in our exclusive feature it’ll feel like you were actually their!!! We’ve also travelled around the world to cover some of the best events on offer, from Strikeforce in the US to Martial Combat in Asia we’ve got it covered. So read on and until next month, train safe, fight hard and above all else, enjoy what you do. In closing, congrats go to Carlos Vemola on his spectacular win at UFC 122 (read his exclusive interview in next month’s issue!), and if you see me at UCMMA or the CWC event in Ireland be sure to say hello and I might even give you a free Fighters T-Shirt. Paul. cliftoncombat@aol.com
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WWW.FIGHTERSMAG.CO.UK PUBLISHER/EDITOR IN CHIEF Paul S. Clifton paul@martialartsinprint.com SENIOR DESIGNER Mark John Davies GRAPHIC DESIGN Kevin Thompson ADVERTISING/SALES EXECUTIVE Jan Harley 0121-351-6930 fighters@btconnect.com UK THAI SUB EDITOR Dan Green UK MMA SUB EDITOR Rob Nutley UK BJJ SUB EDITOR Carl Fisher UK KICKBOXING SUB EDITOR Cris Janson-Piers UK BOXING SUB EDITORS Luke Calvert, Mark Wilson Smith THAI / KICKBOXING Tony Myers, Shaun Boland, Bob Spour, Paul Hennessy, Neil Holden, Dean Sugden
CONTRIBUTORS Steve Dileo, Bryan Levick, Fergus Dullaghan, Ben Cartlidge, Alan MacDonald, Christina Castellana, Teddy Galbally, Craig Bush, Seymour Yang, Rocki Sondhi, Tommy Thompson HOW TO GET WORK PUBLISHED Drop us an email at fighters@martialartsinprint.com or give the editorial team a call on 0121 351 6930 NEWS ITEMS For all news related items, simply mark your envelope “FIGHTERS NEWSLINE” and together with a photograph (if required) and a covering letter, send it to: FIGHTERS, Head Office or E-Mail: fighters.news@btconnect.com HEAD OFFICE: Unit 20, Maybrook Business Park, Maybrook Road, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands, B76 1BE. Tel: 0121 351 6930 E-Mail: fighters.magazine@btconnect.com ADVERTISING DETAILS If you would like to advertise in FIGHTERS email us at fighters@martialartsinprint.com to obtain details, deadline dates and costs. DISCLAIMER FIGHTERS is published by M.A. Publications Ltd, Unit 20, Maybrook Business Park, Maybrook Road, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands, B76 1BE. The publishers reserve the right to reject editorial and/or advertising material as they see fit. The Publishers accept no responsibility for the return of unsolicited material. However, the Publishers will endeavour to return such matter providing that it is accompanied by a stamped addressed envelope. Any material accepted by the Publishers shall be revised or altered should the Publisher deem it necessary to do so. The act of submitting manuscripts and/or materials shall be considered an express warranty that such material is original and in no way infringes upon the rights of others. It is expressly forbidden for any part of the magazine to be reported whatsoever without the permission of Editor / Publishers. The views or comments expressed in these pages are not necessarily those of the editor or Publisher. Distribution by COMAG. No part of this magazine may be produced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without prior permission. Fighters, may not be sold at more than the recomended retail price shown on the cover. SUBSCRIPTION RATES To take out a subscription to Fighters, just send your cheque for the correct amount made payable to M.A. Publications ltd. to: Subscription Dept. Unit 20, Maybrook Business Park, Maybrook Road, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands, B76 1BE. or telephone: 0121-351 6930 12 issues = UK @ £44.95 EUROPE @ £75 (Airmail) REST OF WORLD @ £90 (Airmail)
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Page 6 NEWS ROUND-UP - DOMESTIC & INT’
NEWS ROUND-UP
Have you got news for us? You have? Then e-mail us at fighters.news@btconnect.com
NEWS ROUND-UP NOVEMBER 2010
Jorge Rivera Vs. Michael Bisping Possible For UFC 127 Originally revealed by the fighter himself following his cancelled-at-the-lastminute UFC 122 co-main event bout with Alessio Sakara, Jorge Rivera may next be seen in the Octagon opposite UK standout Michael “The Count” Bisping. Sources have the bout taking place at the unofficial UFC 127 card that will likely be going down on February 27th at the Acer Arena in Sydney, Australia. Rivera is currently on a three-fight winning streak having racked up wins over Nissen Osterneck, Rob Kimmons and Nate Quarry. 20-3 as a professional, Michael Bisping has made it well known that he is searching for a title shot, but the Wolfslair Academy product will likely need to add to his current two-fight winning streak before he gets there. Though the UFC and Rivera’s camp both seem to be in favor of the bout, the fight may not happen as “El Conquistador’s” manager Lex McMahon recently said that he believes Bisping will not accept the offer to face Rivera.
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is widely recognised as the world’s toughest and fastest growing sport. Attracting a celebrity audience including Katie Price, Alex Reid, Dizzee Rascal, Danielle Lloyd and JLS, MMA is the ultimate test of an athlete’s skills and endurance. Now for the very first time on the 4th December - due to public demand - UCMMA is hosting its first female bout between 50 kg (flyweight) fighters: Michelle Tyler and Vickie Watts, both making their professional debut. This is a significant milestone for MMA. With the UK legislation of women’s boxing only being approved in 1998 - it remains a highly controversial topic which has caused a much heated discussion, most notably by the vocal opposition of boxing promoter Frank Warren. Wokingham based former Thai Boxer, Michelle Tyler, fights out of London’s premier MMA gym London Shootfighters. Michelle said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for me to prove myself on the UK’s highest profile MMA Organisation and I’m training hard to do myself and my team proud.”
UCMMA’s First Female Cage Fight
Michelle’s progress from training through to her debut fight is being filmed by Arid Pictures, for a forthcoming televised documentary investigating the public’s attitudes towards women competing in combat sports. This documentary invites the viewer into a shocking, roller coaster ride of what it’s like to be female, British, and a fighter and is set for broadcast in 2011.
UK’s top MMA Organisation debuts first ever female fight, Saturday December 4th, Troxy, London (London, October 28th) Ultimate Challenge (UCMMA) the UK’s top MMA Organisation, is pleased to announce its first ever female fight taking place on December 4th at UCMMA 17: Kings of The Cage live from London’s Troxy.
Hull based Vickie Watts is managed by internationally ranked British fighter and Cambridge educated mathematician, Rosi Sexton. Sexton said: “It’s great that bigger shows are now putting women’s fights on and higher up on the card too. Previously UK fights have been mismatched and one-sided with someone less experi-
“UFC likes the fight, we like the fight, but I don’t think Bisping is man enough to fight Jorge,” McMahon said. “He has no warrior spirit, he knows Jorge will break his will and crush him.”
enced being brought in to fight someone bigger. What stands out about this show is that it is really well matched. This is a big thing and a real sign of progress that we have got to a stage where we can see competitive female fights. This will be a chance to showcase female MMA at its best.” UCMMA Promoter Dave O’Donnell said: “It’s going to be mince pies and black eyes on December 4th Christmas has come early for UCMMA. There’s already a lot of hype around this and it’s going to be one of the most talked about fights this year.”
Coming to a Live Stream Near You M-1 Challenge XXII: Gallicchio vs. Zavurov Airs to a Worldwide Audience Fresh of the momentum of crowning their first-ever Lightweight and Heavyweight champions, M-1 Global is gearing up for its sophomore megaevent of 2010 with M-1 Challenge XXII: Gallicchio vs. Zavurov which goes down Friday December 10th from the Druzhba Arena in Moscow, Russia. Fans worldwide will be able to catch the action LIVE online for free on the organization’s official website www.M-1Global.com starting 11:30am EST / 8:30 PST. “Challenge XXI was our best event to date in 2010 and we’re building off its success,” says Evgeni Kogan, Director of Operations for M-1 Global. “The live feed played a significant role in the event’s positive reviews and because of this we’re making December’s M-1 Challenge XXII available via live, streaming telecast as well. The fans have spoken and M-1 Global is listening.” Free broadcast coverage of the entire M-1 Challenge XXII event will be available live to viewers worldwide on www.M-1Global.com . To receive the iframe embedding code to air the event, please email Eric Nicholl at ericnicholl.M1@gmail.com or ericnicholl1977@hotmail.com for more info.
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NEWS ROUND-UP - DOMESTIC & INT’ Page 7
NEWS ROUND-UP
Have you got news for us? You have? Then e-mail us at fighters.news@btconnect.com
NEWS ROUND-UP NOVEMBER 2010
Pacquiao to Mayweather: ‘You don’t belong in the same ring as me’ Actions speak louder than words. Saturday night eight time world champion Manny Pacquiao made a big statement in his dominating win over the bigger and stronger Antonio Margarito, and it was directed right at Floyd Mayweather Jr. -’you don’t belong in the same ring as me’. Going into the fight there was much speculation as to how Pacquiao would handle the size difference between he and Margarito. Giving away 17 pounds and nearly five inches, some thought that would be the end of the impressive reign Pacquiao has held over the numerous weight classes.
of losing his unblemished record. But if he continues to duck Pacquiao his undefeated record should have a giant asterisk next to it which reads ‘COWARD’. If you want to be the best, you have to beat the best. Plain and simple. That is all there is to it. So until Mayweather mans up and signs to fight Pacquaio, he has no grounds for claiming to be the best fighter, and will only continue to tarnish what was once an impressive legacy he was building for himself.
But he showed why is champion, and not only escaped with a victory, but clearly outfought Margarito and was too much for the Mexican fighter to handle. So if Mayweather was ducking Pacquiao prior the light middleweight championship bout, then he must be hiding under a rock now. Mayweather and his camp bought time earlier this year when they failed to sign the contract to make the ‘superfight’ boxing fans have been yearning for happen, but now he is out of excuses. It is his time to step up. He has never been too shy as to tell the world that he is not only pound-forpound the best boxer in the game, but also the best the sport has ever seen. But it’s easy to talk that way when you don’t have a threat like Pacquiao in your weight class. Now that Pacquiao has been in his face and is ready to throw hands, Mayweather has done something boxing fans have never seen him do before-be speechless. The ‘superfight’ may never take place because Floyd Mayweather is scared
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NEWS ROUND-UP - DOMESTIC & INT’ Page 9
NEWS ROUND-UP
Have you got news for us? You have? Then e-mail us at fighters.news@btconnect.com
NEWS ROUND-UP NOVEMBER 2010
BAMMA Fight Card set for “The Beast vs. The Bear” BAMMA are pleased to announce their next event will feature none other than Bob ‘The Beast’ Sapp in a heavyweight contest against British brawler Stav ‘Crazy Bear’ Economou!
Sinclair and Mark Adams. Sinclair takes on another ranked European opponent in Olivier Pastor who is 105-0 and has a very high submission percentage in his wins.
making some really good progress. I don’t know how close we are yet, but maybe in 60 days we could have a really exciting announcement about that.
The highly ranked Adams takes on none other than the UK’s highest ranked Featherweight in Robbie Olivier. The dangerous Olivier who has held featherweight belts in many other UK organisations and holds wins over Bendy Casimir, Ronnie Mann, Ashleigh Grimshaw and Brad Pickett is looking to make a return to the big stage.
“I think that’s still the number, our budgeting and the numbers we use in our planning remain based on the four-to-six event scenario. There’s an appetite for it, and we have enough quality matches to make those very solid cards.”
December will see the best in mixed martial arts action hit Newcastleupon-Tyne when BAMMA 5 takes place at the Metro Radio Arena!
Featuring a supporting card of exceptional fights that feature the best talent from the UK, BAMMA 5 takes place at the Metro Radio Arena in Newcastle-upon-Tyne on 4th December 2010.
Headlining the event are heavyweights Bob ‘The Beast’ Sapp and Stav ‘Crazy Bear’ Economou.
UFC chief still confident of four-to-six UK events in 2011
World-famous MMA star Bob ‘The Beast’ Sapp is a man of many talents; movie star, NFL player, professional wrestler and kickboxer, Sapp is a gigantic 6’4” fighter who tips the scales at 150kg (24 stone). With a pro record of 11-6-1, Sapp is known for his explosive style and crushing power. Stav ‘Crazy Bear’ Economou is a 24year-old British-Cypriot fighter with a 10-1-1 record. A wild and unpredictable fighter, 70% of Economou’s victories have come inside the first round. At 6’1” and 114kg (18 stone), ‘Crazy Bear’ will have a size disadvantage when facing ‘The Beast’, but with power in both fists and a ruthless ability to finish fights he’ll be sure to make it a fight to remember! The co-main event’s sees the long awaited return of none other than the BAMMA Lightweight and Featherweight Champions, Rob
Following the UFC’s latest foray into Europe for UFC 122 in Germany, British MMA fans can expect to see far more events on UK and Ireland shores next year, according to Marshall Zelaznik. The UK UFC president has spoken openly with ESPN over his dream of bringing “four to six” events to the UK in 2011, the majority of which would take the form of a Fight Night.
Charged with the responsibility of looking after the European wing of the UFC business, Zelaznik is more aware than most of the demands that need satisfying in England, and his latest update bodes well off the back of the suggestion that the UK could host a title fight in 2011.
Vemola DESTROYS PETRUZELLI AT UFC 122 Former UCMMA and CWC champ Karlos Vemola a former heavyweight making his light-heavyweight debut, dazzled on the night’s preliminary card with a first-round TKO of Seth Petruzelli. The Czech fighter simply outstruck and overpowered his opponent, and after a vicious string of punches left Petruzelli bleeding profusely, the referee halted the bout at the 3:46 mark of the opening round.
Quite rightly, Zelaznik has taken a caution-first approach ever since he informed ESPN of his plan at the start of October, knowing there are plenty of obstacles to overcome before his vision becomes reality. However, six weeks further down the line, Zelaznik remains just as confident of giving British MMA fans a regular diet of UFC action in the next 12 months. “It’s looking very good,” he told ESPN. “I was just in Vegas and we’re
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Page 10 THE NEIL ADAMS SUBMISSION CLINIC
The Neil Adams
Submission Clinic By Fergus Dullaghan
Part 7 - Yoko Sankaku jimi Yoko sankaku jimi is a submission that is currently almost exclusively a judo specialism. It has for some reason been overlooked by both MMA and jiu jitsu practitioners . It is however a devastating technique when used correctly. Although the judo method relies heavily on using the gi to facilitate transition, it is possible to perform the move in a no-gi environment. In Fig 1 we can see that the opponent is in the turtle position, perhaps having been tripped or having failed in a double leg attack. Neil takes advantage of his confusion and opens him up further before he can settle. He does this by using a grip on the collar and the belt to tug his opponent suddenly forwards (Fig 2). As he does so he simultaneously enters his left leg behind the opponent’s right arm (Fig 3). He then drops his weight on his opponent and brings his right knee tight down beside his opponent’s ear (Fig 4). Neil ends up kneeling on his right leg (Fig 5). From the other angle we can see that Neil now grabs the opponent’s gi to get purchase for the following roll, but this can be done equally successfully with an under-hook under the opponent’s left arm (Fig 6). He now begins his turn over by going over his left leg (Fig 7-8). Neil lands on his side (Fig 9) with the opponent’s right arm still trapped
Fig 1
behind his left leg. Neil then underhooks his opponent’s left arm and bends his own wrist so that his palm is facing upwards. This traps the opponent’s arm. (N.B. if the opponent now releases his arm in the direction of his feet Neil will simply apply a straight arm lock -juji gatame) Fig 10. Now that the left arm is secure Neil seizes the opponent’s right wrist with his spare hand and uncrosses his legs (Fig 11). Looking back briefly at Fig 10 you can see how Neil’s leg is trapped underneath the opponent. Now that Neil has taken control of both of the opponent’s arms he is free to correct this by sliding his left leg back towards the head and leaving it there like a pillow (Fig 12). Without letting go of either arm Neil now re-crosses his legs but this time the other way around, with the left foot hooking behind the right knee (Fig 13). This puts Neil in position for yoko sankaku jimi or the side-triangle strangle with the legs. To apply the strangle Neil simply turns his hips in the direction of
Fig 2
the opponent’s head. Additional pressure can be brought to bear on the opponent by simultaneously applying a one handed kimura on the out-stretched arm. (Fig-14-15). Of course, more advanced grapplers will have noticed that the other arm can also be attacked either with a straight arm lock or a standard kimura. And as a final tip for those of you who do compete with a gi, you can tie the opponent’s left arm off to get even greater control at the stage shown in Fig 10. This can be achieved by feeding either the belt or the lapel into your waiting left hand (Fig 16-17) before swapping the legs over (Fig 18). Enjoy! Neil Adams is a former World Judo Champion and Olympic Silver Medallist. He is currently the Belgian national coach and his new online tutorials featuring all his judo secrets are available from www.cagefilm.com in association with Combat Magazine and Fighters Magazine.
Fig 3
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THE NEIL ADAMS SUBMISSION CLINIC Page 11
Fig 4
Fig 5
Fig 6
Fig 7
Fig 8
Fig 9
Fig 10
Fig 11
Fig 12
Fig 13
Fig 14
Fig 15
Fig 16
Fig 17
Fig 18
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Page 12 JUNIOR FULL CONTACT COUNCIL COLUMN
JFCC
Junior Full Contact Council Column
Fight Preparation Written by Dean Sugden Head of JFCC “Junior Full Contact Council� Former Professional World Kick Boxing Champion & Trainer of several World, numerous European, Commonwealth & countless British / National Champions.
Over the next few issues I am going to cover Fight Preparation for juniors and will focus on the 3 x KEY Elements. There are a number of aspects which are aimed at the older juniors due to the physical stress the body will be put under. Before taking part in any serious training you must consult your GP and Coach to ensure this program or certain aspects of this program will benefit you. If in doubt email me dean@juniorfullcontact.co.uk 3 x KEY Elements to Fight Preparation - Physical, Technical & Mental I promised last month to cover in some more detail on the 3 Key elements.
Physical Training as a junior you will have natural fitness and stamina. The key element to your training schedule is to experi-
ment and ensure your training program works for you. 6 weeks training program is more than enough of your building towards a peak for a championship fight. For those who are fighting over 3 rounds continuous training throughout the year will suffice. Personally speaking and as fighters get to 14/15 plus your training needs to change and incorporate some strength
JFCC Squad training students holding the plank a fter an intense 2 hour training session
training and a specific program for fighting. Up to this age they will be able to get themselves physically fit by taking part in 3 to 5 kick boxing classes per week. At 14 they will need to add a couple of weight training programs plus start to consider some cross training / running to cope with the physical differences. In the week preceding a fight you should rest and only be keeping yourself ticking over to ensure you are close to your fighting weight. The kickboxing classes should incorporate sparring, pad work and bags in addition to flexibility training along with flexibility work. Next issue I am going to cover the week after a fight, Injuries, Diet & Nutrition.
Technical Basic Stance and feet are the MOST important principles of fighting. Everything you do should ensure you revert back to your stance. Use the mirror and a partner to ensure your feet are in the correct position. Weight distribu-
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JUNIOR FULL CONTACT COUNCIL COLUMN Page 13
tion is important and the magical gap between your feet so your balance is correct if attacked from front or side. If you are left handed then practice your natural South Paw stance but its always important to practice techniques from both stances. On the basis there will be moments in a fight when you are in your opposite stance and need to be able to deliver any technique will come in useful. If your balance is affected by a kick, punch or defensive move then you need to move or adjust your feet.
Mental Strength What should I expect from Full Contact? A clear understanding of the contact allowed along with clear rules and regulations. The standing 8 count, why is used and the protection it gives you if you are hurt or being out classed. Doctors & Paramedics ringside along with pre fight medical check to ensure you are fit to fight. License and record book which shows you and your coach how many fights your opponent has taken part in prior to your contest. Rankings that are neutral and unbiased. The same skill level is required if not more to be able to deal with the physical stress of a full contact fight. What should / can I do to prepare for this? Sparring at other clubs can benefit you in several ways. It creates nerves which are similar to how you will feel on fight night. It also gives you an opportunity to practice your skills against fighters with different styles. Again with all the of these things its not ideal to experience them for the first time on fight night. If you practice all of your skills developed within your own school then home them when sparring at other clubs.
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Page 14 JUNIOR FULL CONTACT COUNCIL COLUMN
Tom Smart v James Gridley
Chad & Grand Master Geoff Bates with 2 Belts IKF World & JFCC World “ The UNIFICATION” Belt
NEWS Despite only recently being formed, the JFCC has been responsible for attracting new talent to the Full Contact scene with James Gridley from Star Kickboxing. James featured on one of if not the biggest promotions of the year at the fantastic Kelham Hall in Newark. The show adeptly named History in The Making 4 had a twist to it with the main event being Andrew Tate v Jamie Bates. One of the most anticipated clashes for some time. Other JFCC starlets were also in action with Dillon O Connor from Ireland IKF & JFCC 5 Nations Champion defeated WAKO Pro British Amateur Champion Ben Fahey.
Dillon O Connor with Irish FLAG on shoulders
Also James Gridley hot of his success at the World Tae Kwon Do championships was in fine form as he took on and defeated Tom Smart WKA British Champion. James another bi product of the JFCC 5 Nations tournament showed why the JFCC Juniors / Cadets are the best out there with a win against Tom Smart from UFBDA for the vacant IKF English Title. Regis Sugden another JFCC 5 Nations champ was in action for the second time under K-1 rules. He destroyed the heavier and taller Robin Lowe from Gladiators gym in 2 rounds after landing some ferocious kicks and punches.
The Amateur card main event was no other than Chad “2 Slick” Sugden fighting against unbeaten David Lenson from Brooklyn New York USA. Chad the highest profile JFCC fighter and Captain to the 5 Nations Team wore his JFCC Bottoms with pride. Chad will captain a team of 20+ fighters from Winspers 3 Lions Impact Black Dragons & Ireland will travel to Florida next year to take part in the IKF World Classic. David came into this unification fight which was billed as The Undisputed with 2 x IKF World Classic Titles. Chad 3 times World Champion holding Golden Belt, EFK and IKF at the lighter weight was moving up to 68kg to attempt to secure his 4th World Title. At the end of this fight which saw Chad take on the Brooklyn Bomber and win over 5 rounds was presented with the JFCC World Title. Grand Master Goff Bates who is the most senior and highest ranking official in Full Contact today presented the belt. The JFCC had decided that they would present their belt in recognition of the fact that these 2 cadets were regarded as the very best in the World. Who could argue with 5 x World Title Belts between them and the 6th being on the line October 16th? In a climate where there are so many Champions, this was something which I was more than happy to support in my role of Head of JFCC. In addition if there are any juniors / cadets out there who think they are the best. Please send in your details into the rankings officer Phil Swanwick phil@juniorfullcontact.co.uk All the fighters registered with the JFCC are actively competing on all reputable sanctioning body shows. All the fighters from the JFCC Championships have gone on and beaten the best out there from all other orgs following the Championships at the beginning of the year. They say success breeds success and that this will attract more competitors to our Championships next year. The plan is to hold JFCC events every 8 weeks next year as the interest in this exciting and safe format has grown. Culminating with a championships at the end of the year where ISKA, WKA, WAKO, IKF, EFK, GOLDEN BELT, WRSA best of the best can come together and compete against each other at the Junior Full Contact Championships for the second year running.
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Calendar of Events coming up... * JFCC Squad Training 19th December 2010 @ NMA NG24 IBE Start time 11am to 1pm *
CKA Gym show “ICO”Nov 7th 2010 Walsham Le Willows Pete Dunnett
* NMA /IKF & JFCC Ireland Cappaquin 20th November Promoter Ross Barrett * WRSA Nottingham 28th November Long Eaton Promoter Surg Johal * WAKO Pro Show Dinnington Sheffield Chad “2 Slick” K-1 Debut Dec 4th 2010 * BLCC Light Continuous event Derby held by Mushtak Khan A1 Lions Dec 5th 2010 * WKA Full Contact Fight Night Juniors & Seniors 3 Lions Gt Yarmouth Dec 5th 2010 * IKF World Classic July 15,16,17 2011 Orlando Florida ( JFCC 5 Nations Team attending)
Insurance for Full Contact We have a very comprehensive Insurance Policy for clubs, instructors and students alike who want to train and compete under Full Contact Rules. This policy can be seen on our website, I wish more Associations would follow suit and publish their policy and cover. I know there are a lot of people in this sport who think they are insured but probably are not. We can also offer event insurance for reputable clubs promoting Full Contact, Light Continuous, K-1, White Collar Boxing & Muay Thai. As long as they are working with a reputable body we will insure their event. Anyone interested in insurance quote or details please check out our website or contact me on dean@juniorfullcontact.co.uk If you have any questions you would like to put to me or the JFCC please don’t hesitate to email me dean@juniorfullcontact.co.uk OR If you have a junior fighter that feels he deserves his / her moment in the limelight please send details to me with some high quality photos.
Dean Sugden Head of JFCC “Junior Full Contact Council”
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Interview with JFCC “Fighter of the Month� Name Regis Sugden Age 15 Weight 59 kilos Trainer Dean Sugden Kick Boxing / K-1 Phil Swanwick Boxing Regis would also like to thank Dave Munro, Bin Tyler & Leigh Edlin for their help in preparation for his recent K-1 fight. How long been training 10 years Who is your favourite fighter? Damien Trainor K Star Gym What is your favourite technique? Spinning Hook Kick What are you ambitions for the sport? Win K-1 Max & K-1 Grand Prix No of Fights by style K-1 2f 2w, Full Contact 17f 16w 1d, Light Continuous 50f 47w 3l Titles Won: Full Contact Titles EFK World Title, EFK European Title, Golden Belt European 2 x WKA British Champion, WKA World Championships 2009 Gold Medalist Full Contact & K-1. JFCC 5 Nations Gold Medalist 2010, IMGC / WFK World Games Gold Medalist Thailand 2008 Full Contact, EFK British Champion & ISKA / BLCC English Champion.
jumping for joy aft e r his Kelham Hall victory under K-1 rules
Hardest Fight & Why? Aaron Town Clan Kickboxing, he is very awkward fighter and very effective. He has a great engine and also a great will to win. Very similar to myself:) Influences & Inspirations? My Dad has been my biggest influence on my career and had a big impact in developing my fighting style. He has encouraged me to fight to my strengths. My big brother Chad has inspired me as he has always been one step ahead of me in my career as a kickboxer. He has just become the undisputed Junior World Champion. I would like to achieve that accolade and also achieve a World Title under K-1 rules.
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Page 18 UNFIT2FIGHT WITH MARK ‘WARTIME’ CARLING
What a month it has been! Tom Watson and Alex Reid put on the best UK fight I have ever seen, those two guys are pure warriors and prove that we are a nation of exciting fighters. UFC kicked off in London with a few hard losses for amazing fighters like Dan Hardy and my favorite UFC fighter John Hathaway (the guy trains like a machine and is a real gentleman outside the cage, more people like John mean more big investors). Our own shores are now starting to really push the boundaries for fighters and promoters and for me Ultimate Challenge is easily the best show in Europe still, selling out tickets two shows in advance! I have just started full prep for my next fight in February at UCMMA and now I will be trimming to a featherweight to really cause some mayhem the cage. Apart from terrorizing people in the cage I have been filming ‘Gym of the Week’ for the Cage Fighter show and we have had some real crackers recently, so tune in every Wednesday night at about 10pm to watch the magic unfold on Sky Sports and show your support for UK MMA.
Now it’s time for my monthly give away! and what a selection we have for you:
There is an unbeatable new diet pill on the market to help with all your hard cuts Capsilite - check out http://capsilite.com/
● A full weeks complimentary gym pass to every class at Gym Xtreme in Worthing (one of the best MMA gyms in the UK.)
Watson vs Reid
● One bottle of the best new diet pill available Capsilite ( this helped me shed 25 kilos of fat in 16 weeks!) ● One Ultimate Challenge T-shirt - dress like a top fighter ● One Ultimate Challenge DVD - watch the top fighters
STOP, SHOCK AND KNOCKOUT We caught up with the most famous man in UK MMA, the one and only Tom Watson. Tom has done more than most for the sport that we all love, with his exciting fighting style and what many people have called the fight of the year - his victory against Alex Reid. Name: Tom ‘Kong’ Watson Age: 28 Fighting out of: Jacksons Submission Academy/ Zahabi MMA (Tristar, Montreal) Food: Nandos Fun: Women Colour: Red Time: Watch Place: New Mexico Style: Pimping Music: Anything Hate: Posers Love: ? Fight: Club If you want to find out more about Tom ‘Kong’ Watson then go to tomkongwatson.com
Tom ‘Kong’ Watson (pictured right)
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Quote of the month...
I’m just here for the knock out! - The legend Dave O’donnell
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Page 20 UNFIT2FIGHT WITH MARK ‘WARTIME’ CARLING
Mark with Gary Turner looking on
Talk-time with WARTIME As the lights beamed down on me and the music shook the floor, I set foot onto the runway. Hundreds of cameras flashed and the sound of the crowd chanting “CARLING, CARLING, CARLING” was audible well above the music I’d chosen to walk into. I was focused and finally ready to meet my destiny in that cage and it felt so good. No fear, no nerves, no doubt, just ready. The incredible energy coming from the crowd made me feel stronger and more powerful with every step I took towards the cage. I could feel myself and my body feeding off the intense atmosphere, absorbing the desire and will to win from the sea of support that was engulfing me. Like a tenacious parent, proud and supportive, the crowd was with me and I was grateful. The cage door was looming, and my opponent was waiting. Gary Turner was there for the final checks and words of encouragement, whilst Pete Mercer smothered my face with the obligatory Vaseline. It was time for me to cross the line into a world like no other I’d experienced before. A place where you attack or be attacked, where
STOP, SHOCK AND KNOCKOUT
your every move is your armour against defeat. You do not stop, you must not stop, trained to never give in, until the second they pull you from your foe. Gary and I had run through this scenario a thousand times in my mind and I knew what had to be done. I connected gloves, smashed fists with Jason Barrett at the centre of the octagon. Not for a second did I avert my gaze from Jason. Without breaking my stare away, I backed towards my red corner, and rested my leg against the ropes of the cage, in preparation to let myself go. The moment had arrived, the time was now. All my training, all my mind coaching and everything that Gary Turner had taught me about ring behavior was about to be put into practice. At that moment I ‘jump started my heart’ by beating my fist against my chest and shot across the cage, charging at Jason with a fast hard jab, then swung over the top with a powerful elbow. Jason was ready, sparring with pace, the fight was really on. All that was going through my mind was to attack Jason, relentlessly, as I forced forward trading punches with him, never stopping and never giving him a moment’s break. The whole time the rhythmic chanting from the crowd “CARLING, CARLING, CARLING” was pushing me on, encouraging me to fight. The underdog was fighting back so hard and the crowd where lapping it up. Then BANG a hard right sent me to the floor, but dazed I scrambled to my feet taking the onslaught of punches determined to grab Jason’s head. The moment I feel his sweet canister in my hands I yank it down straight onto my knee.
Peter Mercer is the UK Middleweight K1 Champion, holding three of the five titles around the country and just about to step out and fight UCMMA veteran Jake Bostwick for the fourth. He is a force to be reckoned with and a gentleman. In his camp he can name Gary Turner, Alex Reid, Nick Chapman and Jessie Sanders just to name a few - and every one of those guys means business.
Fun: Naughty sex parts and fighting Colour: Purple is my favorite colour Time: Never enough, always shuffling for more time Place: Going to bed or in the ring Style: My girlfriend looks after that I would be in shorts and flip flops Music: If I’m training metal or House and in the car Funky Buddha Hate: Bullying Love: Love it Fight: Win always WIN
Name: Peter Mercer Age: 29 Fighting out of: Indie Fighter Food: I like eating way to much
If you want to catch Peter Mercer fight then click on ucmma.com and get down to ULTIMATE CHALLENGE on October 23rd and see mayhem in the cage................
As Jason recoils I force him to the fence, smothering his face with my hand and smashing him with hook after hook to the head, before he wriggles out and returns the knee to me in devastating fashion. Now overcome with rage, nothing can hurt me. I keep walking to Jason as he is hacking my legs, bang, bang I just laugh and gesture him with my hands to “come on!. “ Now I start to see the fear in his eyes, still trading punches we keep going round the octagon. Jason lets out a massive round house connecting perfectly with my jaw and shaking me, but still I will not give up and keep forcing forward. I can’t see now, I’m dizzy and receiving blow after blow then it all goes blank... As I sit in the dressing rooms with Pete Mercer, Gary Turner, Nick Chapman, Paul Dash, Alex Reid, Jimmy Yardley and Dale Hatt I receive a humbling round of applause. All the other fighters around me are preparing for their own fights and in the busy hustle and bustle of the changing room, I smile through my daze and it doesn’t quite register that the applause is for me. Through the fog of my concussion the messages of praise and kind words continue, and I can hear Alex Reid tell me that I’m a “Warrior”. I had my first cage fight and now I have the taste for it. My debut was spectacular, but I did not get the result I was after - so now it’s back to my training camp and I will be stepping out again in February at the one and only Ultimate Challenge. After waking up from my first knockout the first thing I did was get my girlfriend and hit the UCMMA after party - and order in a pizza that I scoffed in a crowded bar. That was my first reward to myself and it tasted better than any beer I have ever drunk. 12 weeks without fast food was hard! None of Unfit2Fight would have ever been possible without the amazing team I have around me and that made me realise one phenomenal thing. MMA is a team sport. I never would have come so far in such a short time had it not been for people like Dave O’Donnell mentoring me and all the support from UCMMA, Gym
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Xtreme (giving me somewhere to do everything), Miad Najafi teaching me ground work. It has taken Mark Prince to help me strike, Dale Hatt to condition, and Nick ‘Head Hunter’ Chapman to perfect my ground and pound ability. I’ve needed Gary Turner to teach half beats and a piece of his own personal magic, Dede Dean with his strict diet, Peter Mercer’s ring dominance, and Jimbo Slice with his perfect Triangle. Training has been in the form of Jack Mason for grappling, Kenny Moyston for the kicks, Jesse Saunders for Mauy Thai, Brighton boot camp for the dawn cardio classes, and Bikram Yoga for the help with my breathing. Zara has provided the constant humour, and the team at Blockhouse Films for the birth of a great concept. Final mention goes to my beautiful Sophia for always being there at the end of it. Keep happy, never stop training and always help others as one good turn today can become the most rewarding thing you have ever done tomorrow Believe in yourself as you are only limited by your own mind. I have just started my own TV production company called ‘Wartime Productions’, and we are all about MMA, find us at www.wartime-productions.com
Carling vs Barrett @ UCMMA Showdown
NEWS IN BRIEF
STOP, SHOCK AND KNOCKOUT
• Catch my new slot Gym of the Week on Cage Fighter - Sky Sports. • I fight out of the Fight-Science Team • The donate button is up and working on unfit2fight.com, use it now! • I’m sponsored by Evolution Sport Nutrition. • I’m now sponsored by Gym Xtreme. • Go to unfit2fight.com to see the new trailer.
This month I’m going to interview my team mate Nick ‘Head Hunter’ Chapman. This guy has exploded onto the MMA scene in the most spectacular style possible, defeating his first opponent in 37 second and making everyone at Pride Fighting down in Portsmouth go mental in one of the most exciting fights I have ever seen - and catching the eye of legendary promoter Dave O’Donnell. Now let’s hit him with a one minute interview, ten words and what they mean to him, let’s go!
Last but not least my long term girlfriend Sophia agreed to marry me when I asked her at ULTIMATE CHALLENGE, this was the only time I have ever been lost for words...
Name: Nick ‘Head Hunter’ Chapman Age: 34 Weight: LH Fighting out of: Fight-Science Food: Nutrition, what the body needs to get better Fun: Punching people’s heads in! Colour: Black and it is a colour Time: As long as it takes Place: Inside the cage Style: Ground and Pound Music: Motivates me Hate: Losing Love: My wife Fight: Is what we do!
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FIGHTERS IRISH SECTION
All the latest news and views from The Emerald Isle...
“Fighting Irish” Making Huge Progress in MMA With the rapid rise in popularity of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) throughout the world, we’ve seen new websites appear daily, clothing lines such as Silver Star, Badboy and TapouT being worn in the high street on an increasing scale. New MMA gyms have been opening throughout the world. Fighters such as Brock Lesnar, Anderson Silva and GSP are being talked about in playgrounds by a new generation of MMA fans throughout the country. All of which has helped bring MMA more into the mainstream than ever before. Ireland with its world famous reputation for excelling in combat sports has been making huge progress in MMA lately. Many of the “Fighting Irish” have been busy knocking opponents out or submitting them to claim various titles. So much so that Fighters Magazine have created a new Ireland MMA section which will include; gym profiles, fighter interviews, fight reports, an opinions section and general Irish MMA news in order to keep up with the growing reputation of Ireland as a serious player on the world stage. Each month this column will look at all the recent events and keep fight fans up to date as to the progress and state of Irish MMA. Many Irish organisations
Cage Contenders
have been making a huge impact throughout the UK and European promotional scene. Organisations such as Cage Contender, Clan Wars and Cage Wars have had huge success over the past few years in promoting Irish MMA. We shall feature each of these Irish organisations in the Ireland section, talk to those directly in charge and look at the future plans each of them have. Irish fighters have enjoyed recent success in the octagon over the past month with many being crowned champions. Fighters such as Paul “Metabolic” McVeigh (17-6) regarded as Europe’s number 1 ranked Mixed Martial Artist and one of Ireland’s great prospects recently won the Cage
Contender Bantamweight title in Dublin on July the 27th, defeating a tough and unpredictable Artemij Sitenkov via triangle armbar. McVeigh believes that Ireland has some very talented fighters coming through the ranks. He said: “Ireland and Scotland suck at football and popular sports but we have some world class violent merchants. No idea why it is but if you get wee man syndrome on a national level you tend to end up with some really hard bantamweights and featherweight guys.” Many of Ireland’s promising fighters appeared recently at Cage Contenders VI in Manchester on August 28. US based Irishman Damian “The Rage” Rooney (7-2-1) earned a draw in a tough fight against Declan “Kid Dynamite” Williams. Promising Irish fighter, “Stormin” Norman Parkes also proved victorious at Cage Contender VI putting in a dominating performance against Stu Davies to win in round 2 via TKO and establish a 3 fight win streak. We speak to this Irish prospect this month. MMA giants Bellator have also taken notice of the fighting talent available in Ireland. Female Mixed Martial Artist, Aisling Daley who we also feature in this months edition and fighting out of SBG Ireland, ranked number 1 in Ireland and 3rd in the world, she
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FIGHTERS IRISH SECTION recently signed for the organisation and suffered her first loss to Lisa Ward via decision at Bellator 26. The Dublin native’s record now stands at (9-1) and is another great example of the strides taken in Irish MMA. There are exciting times ahead for Irish MMA. Team Kaobin have experienced the talent of Irish fighters. Ronan Mc Kay based at EFR Antrim has been dubbed the “Kaobin Killer” after defeating 3 opponents based out of the UK team. Irish eyes are smiling in MMA!
By Thomas McCullough
All the latest news and views from The Emerald Isle...
number 1 ranked Paul “Metabolic” McVeigh (17-6)
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All the latest news and views from The Emerald Isle...
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FIGHTERS IRISH SECTION
All the latest news and views from The Emerald Isle...
Aisling Daly “Ash the Bash” Wants Pay Back! “I feel sorry for the opponent who gets me next,” says Bellator fighter Aisling Daley. Ranked as Ireland’s best female fighter and number 3 in the world, fighters would be wise to take notice of what this wrecking machine plans to do when she enters the octagon again to avenge her loss to Lisa Ward at Bellator 26. Known as “Ash the Bash” she holds an impressive (9-1) record suffering her first ever loss in the prestigious Bellator 26 female 115llbs tournament on August the 26th. The tournament featured many of the worlds leading female MMA fighters such as submission expert Megumi Fujii.
Travelling to the US to take part in the prestigious tournament also opened Daly’s eyes as to the superiority complex that exists outside Europe, one which has perhaps proved a factor in Irish and UK talent being overlooked by American promotions such as Strikeforce, WEC and the UFC.
Many fighters who aspire to reach the very top of their fight game decide to relocate Stateside in search of better training and sparring partners. “Ash the Bash” however has no such plans of doing so and is very confident of her own surroundings and plans to keep training out of her Dublin camp.
The Dublin native, fighting out of Straight Blast Gym Ireland (SBGI) felt disappointed at her overall performance against Lisa Ward and was very frustrated at how the fight unfolded. She said: “To be honest, everything about me didn’t feel right. I didn’t feel at my best and I don’t want to sound like I’m making excuses. In the fight I felt I’d no power or strength especially at the 115llbs weight. If I’m honest it was a boring fight. I think I will give it one more fight and see how it goes before I would consider moving back up to 125llbs. If I perform well, hopefully I will remain at this weight.”
“There’s an attitude which exists in the US that European MMA is substandard to them. A lot of the fighters and the fans believe that places such as the UK and Ireland aren’t on their level and this attitude is perhaps filtered down to the promoters of the big organisations who then ignore the talent that we’ve got to offer. The UK and Ireland aren’t substandard to the US as we have some great coaches and great MMA exponents. There were even some negative comments towards my own coaching team.”
“I’m still training in Dublin and I’ve no plans to go elsewhere. I might travel to the States and do some training but I don’t think it will make a difference to me if I stay in Ireland. I’ve an excellent coach in John Kavanagh. Many people seem to always define an expert in something if they come from out of town. In Dublin we’ve got some really good lightweight guys who I train with and I don’t think I would get that type of training in the US with girls. The female MMA scene is small so it could be competition I would be training with.”
Daly has been having a huge impact on the MMA scene and is one of Ireland’s very few fighters to receive the call up by a big international promotion such as Bellator. She has helped put Irish MMA on the global stage and is very proud of her achievements but is also quick to point out the quality involved in UK and Irish MMA. “I’m very proud of my achievements so far and especially to be signed by Bellator for a 6 fight contract. I just kept my head down and kept plugging away and I’m very pleased with myself to be with the organisation and give Irish MMA a platform.”
Aisling is looking to avenge her only defeat to Lisa Ward
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IT’S BACK! RTIAL MAAMRRATTIA SL M A R T IA A L MAARRTTIASRSTLHSOW M ARRSTTIASSLHOW RRSTATHIA SOLHWOW MAAMRRATATIA S ARSTHSSOHWOLW SHOW the
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22ND & 23RD MAY 2010
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Saturday the 7th & Sunday 8th May 2011 www.themartialartsshowlive.com
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‘ASH THE BASH’ WANTS PAY BACK! Page 27
FIGHTERS IRISH SECTION From the age of ten, Aisling first began Martial Arts in the form of Karate and has been doing some form of combat training ever since. “I began Karate for a few years and was then introduced to Jiu Jitsu. My teacher used to take out old mats (when I was around fourteen or fifteen) and showed us submission holds. I became hooked and started beating up guys on the mat and eventually quit karate and began Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training.” “Ash the Bash” began MMA training at a time when most girls considered yoga and walking on a treadmill to a rocky soundtrack as punishable forms of exercise. “When I started MMA training not many girls did it, maybe 4 or 5 at amateur or pro level. I was the only girl in the class. People started talking about the UFC and I wanted to become more involved. Now you hear more and more girls training in MMA. Some are doing it to compete while others are doing it for fitness. Many of them are shocked at my work ethic and how hard I train... I’m always willing to help those around me as well.” Daly doesn’t base her style on any particular fighter and believes that MMA has now evolved from being a one dimensional sport to a more, well rounded GSP type fighter. She said: “I’ve my own unique fighting style. I like well rounded fighters. The era of one dimensional fighter’s is gone. MMA is now a complete sport and not a boxer that does MMA or a wrestler that does it. I like GSP as a well rounded fighter.” Until she is matched up again by Bellator, Daly plans to put in as much competition and fight training as possible and would even love to have a rematch with her American opponent Lisa Ward. “I’m itching to get back. I would love to fight Lisa Ward again. I’m really hungry for my next fight. There’s talk about Bellator staging another tournament, so I would love to be involved in that. But in the mean time I will take part in submission wrestling competitions, boxing and Muay Thai.” A highly ranked fighter and one of the best female fighters to emerge from Irish MMA in recent years “Ash the Bash” likes comedy films when she’s not competing in the cage but it won’t be a laughing matter for her next opponent!
All the latest news and views from The Emerald Isle...
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All the latest news and views from The Emerald Isle...
Graham Boylan &
“Everything Stops With Me” says New CWFC Irish Chief Established in 2001, Cage Warriors Fighting Championship (CWFC) has grown to become one of the UK’s longest serving and most successful Mixed Martial Arts organisations around, attracting many octagon stars. Irish influence on MMA has been making a real impact throughout the UK and Europe and this influence will be felt at CWFC with Graham Boylan being appointed the new Director of the successful UK organisation. “Everything stops with me. The plans for CWFC and Warrior Promotions are to take what’s been created to the next level. Cage Warriors is a historical MMA Event
Graham Boylan
in UK MMA history and I will do what I can to cement it more for years to come,” says Graham. Graham Boylan, who runs 4 gyms, 3 of which are in London known as the MMA clinic and 1 in Ireland, the Boxing clinic, first became aware of MMA while having a beer in Australia. It became a life changing experience for the Irishman. He said: “I was introduced to MMA in 2000 when I was living and training in Australia. I shared a house with 8 Canadians who where UFC fanatics. I had no idea what they were talking about while having a few beers on my arrival to the house. At this point, everything changed for me. I was shown a few fights, guys such as Gracie, Abbot, Shamrock and Liddell. I was hooked like I had never been hooked on anything before. MMA became an obsession.” His new found obsession took him increasingly away from his various business interests and more towards MMA. “It made me realise how much I loved fighting. I honestly thought in my head there was
something wrong with me. I got majorly tied up in business with a few companies to the point where I’d had enough. I went back to boxing and became a full time UFC fan”. He added, “I started training with Paul Hines who was head coach at Pancreas London. I trained with Paul for about 2 years in rented community halls, I got really frustrated with the situation as we needed a cage to train properly, so I established the MMA Clinic and we haven’t looked back,” said Graham Boylan. Prominent fighters have entered the octagon under the CWFC banner. Theses include, Dan Hardy, Michael Bisping, Ross Pearson and Rosi Sexton. As the new director, Graham Boylan is planning to take the organisation to the next level and Ireland features heavily in his plans. Ireland, with its “Fighting Irish” spirit has been making a huge impact on the UK and European MMA scene and this is something that hasn’t been missed by Graham Boylan.
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GRAHAM BOYLAN & CAGE WARRIORS FC Page 29
FIGHTERS IRISH SECTION He said: “Ireland’s been generating top athletes as far back as I can remember, not just in the fight game. For a small country we don’t do badly at all. I will be taking a very close look at Irish based fighters and doing whatever I can to help develop it.” It’s quiet clear that Irish MMA will feel Graham Boylan’s influence as the director of CWFC.
All the latest news and views from The Emerald Isle...
“There’s a different breed of fighter in Ireland. Irish lads are hungry, they’ve no fear but a lot of education in MMA is needed and that’s what I’m going to work on their. I’m not far away from finishing the details of a project that will help young talent, both in the UK and Ireland.”
The future is bright; the future is green.
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FIGHTERS IRISH SECTION
All the latest news and views from The Emerald Isle...
Irish prospect
By Thomas McCullough
Norman Parke “Stormin” through the ranks Rising star of Irish MMA, Norman Parke (12-2) has been making a huge impact in Ireland and throughout the UK with impressive victories in the cage. Based in Bushmills, the fighter known as “Stormin” Norman currently fights out of the Institute of Mixed Martial Arts (IMMA) in Ballymena under the tutelage of head coach Rodney Moore. Over the last 2 years the Lightweight fighter, who has appeared at events such as Strike and Submit, OMMAC and Cage Contender has been making fight fans sit up and take notice of what is proving to be a potential star attraction throughout Ireland and the UK. Irish Lightweight Cage Contender Champion and fellow Irish prodigy, Myles Price is just one of the fighters who’ve lost to the talented IMMA fighter via guillotine. His latest win came against Stuart Davies via TKO in round 2 at Cage Contender VI in Manchester on August 28. It’s a fight
which the Irishman felt very comfortable in and added to his impressive record even further.
while as I want to train with many great fighters and coaches which can only make me a better fighter.”
Having enjoyed his victory, “Stormin” Norman said: “The plan was just to feel him out (Stuart Davies) for a while then clinch up with him. I knew he didn’t want to clinch so I took him down with a sweep and the assault started from there. I worked my ground and pound hitting him with elbows and I knew he didn’t want to be there. I could’ve went for the finish a few times but I was quite enjoying the fight and I was never in trouble. I wanted to get a few rounds in the bag.”
A life of drugs and self destruction became a strong possibility for the talented Irishman, who began Judo and boxing as a youngster. He began to fall into the wrong crowd until a chance meeting with a former Judo coach, Alan Ashcroft, helped turn Norman’s life towards Mixed Martial Arts.
Determined to add to his already growing skill set in the cage the talented fighter plans to travel to the US and obtain some high quality training with American Top Team who can boast fighters in its stable such as Thiago Alves, Denis Kang, Mike Brown and Cole Miller, with the latter set to fight Ross Pearson at UFC 120. His fight record and desire to travel abroad is something which he hopes will make people take notice. He said: “I think people should start to take big notice of me. I’m not to be looked past. Each time I step into the cage to compete I’m more composed and you get to see a better me. I’m going to American Top Team to train for a
He said: “I’ve been doing judo since I was sixteen and started boxing around seventeen. I’ve really started taking things seriously since last year. I was a really keen footballer but it just wasn’t enough for me. I was out one night and met my former judo coach Alan Ashcroft who said he was running a judo club in Bushmills. I decided to give it a go and it all started from there. It was the best thing that happened to me as I was mixing with the wrong crowd and getting into drugs. It was just paving a way for a self destructive life which I didn’t want.” Ireland’s lightweight division represents one of the most stacked and talented divisions in the country. Norman Parkes believes new emerging fighters are always coming through the ranks just like he did.
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IRISH PROSPECT NORMAN PARKE Page 31
FIGHTERS IRISH SECTION
All the latest news and views from The Emerald Isle...
“We’ve a great deal of talent in this country. There’s always someone popping up somewhere just like myself for example. Last year I had my first pro fight and I’ve came storming through the ranks putting together a (121) record along the way (not including the total mismatch I had with Greg Loughran 4 years ago). But for sure, we’ve got great talent and it’s only getting better. Big shows like Cage Contender, Cage Wars are being televised which is great exposure.” It’s not surprising for “Stormin” Norman, who rates his ground game, takedown defence and offence as his strong point, rates George St.Pierre as his inspiration, he said: “GSP is my favourite fighter. He’s the complete package. For someone who never wrestled in college look at him now. He really inspires me the way he dominates top position and controls opponents.” Like all fighters, this ambitious and talented fighter wishes to go to the very top of his game with the US being the Holy Grail. He said: “I would love to fight on any of the big American promotions such as Strikeforce, WEC or the UFC. Theses are
my priorities but there are a lot of other top promotions. It would be an achievement getting into them and even bigger staying in it. I just want to push myself and see how far I can really go.”
“Stormin” Norman Parke is one Irish fighter that talent scouts should keep an eye on..
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Page 32 FIGHTERS IRISH SECTION
FIGHTERS IRISH SECTION
All the latest news and views from The Emerald Isle...
“No Bull and No Gimmicks” Welcome To Cage Contender “We put on fights that people want to see, we don’t put on washed up fighters from yesteryear. The MMA community have more knowledge now than to be fooled by this. We put on high octane, value for money shows with no bull and no gimmicks,” says Cage Contender Managing Director John Ferguson. It’s this attitude and philosophy which has propelled Cage Contender into one of Ireland’s leading MMA promotions. The organisation hit the ground running since its creation in 2009. Its first event was a Lightweight 6 man knockout style tournament based at the Clarion Hotel, Carrickfergus. From these humble beginnings, Cage Contender within 8 months had signed various TV deals and is now shown around 24 countries throughout the world highlighting the best of Irish MMA.
Despite having no MMA background, John Ferguson devotes most of his waking hours to the continued success of the promotion. He said: “I really have no MMA background. I’m purely a promoter, that said, MMA and Cage Contender now takes up 90% of my waking hours. Cage Contender is now owned by Fight Options International, a company owned by myself and UK based boxing promoter/football agent Mick Carney. As MD of the company, I look after the day to day running of the company including all match making and strategic planning for the development of the brand.” Such has been the rapid success of Cage Contender; the organisation has staged 6 promotions so far to the delight of fight fans. From the Clarion Hotel beginnings, it quickly spread its wings. The organisation packed out the world famous Kings Hall arena in Belfast on May the 1st. Known throughout the world for staging world class fights, Cage Contender IV ensured it stayed true to its reputation. From the Kings Hall in Belfast, Dublin became the next venue for the ever growing popularity of Cage Contender in Ireland. Cage Contender V saw 3 Irish titles on the line at the National Basketball Arena on July the 27th. Fight
fans witnessed some of Ireland’s leading Mixed Martial Artists battle it out for various titles. Irish favourite and European number 1 Bantamweight, Paul “Metabolic” McVeigh won the Cage Contender Title defeating Artemij Sitenkov via triangle armbar. Fight fans also witnessed Dublin native, Cathal “The Punisher” Pendred, defeat knockout specialist Liam Shannon via decision to claim the Welterweight Cage Contender Title. Lightweight Title holder, Martin “The Heat” Begley, lost his Lightweight Title to hot Irish prospect, “Magic” Myles Price via rear naked choke in round 2. Dublin, like Belfast showed the continuing growth and popularity of Cage Contender as a serious MMA promotion. Irish eyes began to look towards England for the next edition of the Cage Contender promotion. With so much success in Ireland, Manchester was to be the stage for the first export of the Cage Contender brand in what became known as Cage Contender VI held on August the 28th and saw Icelandic Welterweight Gunnar Nelson defeat Danny Mitchell via rear-naked choke in round 1 to establish a 7 fight win streak in the main event bout.
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WELCOME TO CAGE CONTENDER Page 33
FIGHTERS IRISH SECTION John Ferguson has been asked many times why Cage Contender decided to stage an event outside of Ireland and he offers a simple response. “Why not”? “Wherever we go we put on local shows working with local fighters and local gyms. This has been a feature of Cage Contender from the very beginning. The first Manchester show went really well, just one glance at the fight card of Cage Contender VI will show anyone the commitment we have to putting on quality shows where ever we go.” He added, “It was hard work breaking into a new market, but we achieved our goals for the event, it was great to see Ricky Hatton and 5 or 6 premiership footballers in the crowd too, it again shows that people are willing to come and watch the shows we produce.”
All the latest news and views from The Emerald Isle...
Irish MMA is in a very healthy state right now according to the Cage Contender chief. Many coaches and promoters throughout the country are doing exceptional work and is something that hasn’t gone unnoticed by John Ferguson as well as scouting for stars of the future from Ireland. He said: “Irish MMA has a massive future ahead of it. There are some great clubs and coaches in Ireland with some cracking fighters coming through the ranks. I think it’s in a strong place right now.
There are a few big promotions and some decent shows all giving opportunities to fighters to progress their career. The clubs and coaches around Ireland have put massive efforts into their work and it is starting to pay off much more than ever before.” He added, “As for fighters catching my eye there a few but the one to watch in my view is Joe “kid chaos” Clarke from the PCCB fight team. This kid has bags of talent and is totally dedicated to his craft.”
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WELCOME TO CAGE CONTENDER Page 35
FIGHTERS IRISH SECTION Its talented prospects such as “Kid Chaos” who will benefit from the continued growth of Irish MMA and the coverage it’s starting to receive from throughout the world. Such coverage was perhaps lacking in previous years and might be one reason why bigger shows such as the UFC, WEC and Strikeforce ignored the “Fighting Irish”. It’s something that John Ferguson believes will certainly change. “I can’t answer on behalf of the international promotions (as to why Irish fighters were overlooked) but it could be down to a lack of coverage that Irish shows get on the world stage. Hopefully, with ourselves on TV in over 24 countries and Cage Wars with a great TV distribution, it will help get fighters in the frame quicker than before. I would love to see more Irish lads on the world scene. I’m sure it’s not too far away,” says John Ferguson. With the continued growth of MMA throughout the globe, various promotions have been established much to the criticism of some people who feel we’re
All the latest news and views from The Emerald Isle...
now stacked with too many promotions. Ireland, being such a small country, hasn’t escaped the critics either. John Ferguson was keen to point out the difference between a “Show” and a “Promotion”. He said: “It’s important to understand the difference between a “Show” and a “Promotion”. There are many guys running shows that label them promotions when it’s clearly not the case. I think the way it may go is similar to boxing, where there will be various local clubs level shows. In Ireland 2 of the best are Rumble in Rush and Immortal, which are great at what they do and provide a much needed platform for fighters coming through the ranks. Then you will have the promotions who can offer the next set of opportunities; TV, Media coverage etc to these fighters. Fighters and coaches will then make the choice “Which show/promotion can bring my career further at this point”. It’s up to the coaches and managers to make the correct choices for the fighters in their charge.”
Pointing out the impact managers can have on a fighter, John Ferguson said: “I’ve heard a story recently where a well known Irish manager told his fighters that he will not put them on my fight cards because he has a gripe with me, well that’s just childish and holding the careers of those fighters back in my view.” Cage Contender plans to continue its rapid growth throughout 2011. “The plan for season 2 in 2011 is to have 9 events, 3 in Belfast; 3 in Dublin; and 3 in the UK. “What’s most important is that we continue to put on quality fight cards stacked with the very best local talent. This in turn will grow the brand further,” says John Ferguson. For more information visit: www.cagecontender.net/
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Page 36 MMA’S GOLDEN BOY! CAGE WARS CHAMPS
MMA’s
Golden Boy! Evolution not Revolution It was the American businessman Howard Schulz, the man who led Starbucks to become a household name, who said: “I’d encourage everyone to dream big, lay your foundations well, absorb information like a sponge, and not be afraid to defy conventional wisdom.” Oh, if only the vast majority of mixed martial arts promoters had taken heed. Ever since the Ultimate Fighting Championship began making serious money from the MMA business in 2005, largely thanks to being bankrolled by owners Frank and Lorenzo Fertitta, dozens of promoters have thrown their hat, and their cash, into the ring in the hope of getting their piece of the pie. What most didn’t factor in, however, was the patience that the Fertittas showed with the UFC brand, taking a $40m hit to their casino-driven bank accounts before finally turning things around four years after
Cage Wars CEO Patrick Mooney
their purchase of the company. The likes of Elite XC and Affliction Entertainment, believing that money was all that was required to make them long-term players in the MMA game, were gone before they really arrived. How refreshing, then, to know that while the new investment in the Cage Wars Championship group will be celebrated with a huge event at Belfast’s Odyssey Arena (the UFC’s first-choice venue to hold UFC 72 in June 2007) on December 10, the company’s philosophy on star names, match-making, and opportunities for local fighters will remain the same. Clearly, despite the added resources at their exposure, it’s a case of evolution, not revolution. “The philosophy for us has always been very simple: to build something, and to build it well,” Patrick Mooney, CEO of Cage Wars Championship, told Fighters. “Fundamentally, what we try to achieve is a good fight card every time we run a show. I’ve always felt that if we do that correctly, then on that foundation, all that we want to achieve will follow.” “When people bring big names to their show, they tend to just focus on those names,” he added. “What we try to do is to shine the
light of those name fighters onto the younger guys who need that push. Putting the younger guys against the veterans is a great opportunity for them; they may not win, but it’s a way for these talented people to be seen. It’s that break that everybody needs to get to make a real success of themselves. So what we’ve always tried to do is elevate these guys to a higher level, to make them more noticeable, and to allow them to make a living out of the sport that they’ve put so much into.” “Validation”, as the upcoming show has been subtitled, will afford the combatants the chance to do exactly that, but Mooney is well aware that, having taken almost a year to negotiate new television deals - which now see the company have significant viewing figures in Europe, North America, and Asia - and created a public limited company to house the CWC brand, now is the time to let the fighters fight, and to let the fans enjoy the show once again. “A realistic goal for us would now be to run four events every year in any single region,” surmised Mooney. “We would’ve liked to have more events in recent times, but we wanted to build the foundation of our business. A lot of people that go into MMA promotion don’t have a model or a path that
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“That future is being secured by the TV deals and the DVD distribution that we’ve been working on, which mean that we’re being seen by more and more people across the world. Television remains the most popular medium out there, and our goal is to get as much good-quality TV exposure as we can. Last year in North America alone we had over 18 million people tune in to watch our programming over the course of 13 to 14 months. In Asia, we’re in 26 countries on 14 different networks, and while a lot of those channels don’t release their ratings, if those networks are coming back to us and asking for more content, which they are, the programming is being watched, and what we offer is obviously working for that station. And now that we’ve furthered the business, and created a public company out of it, we’re ready for a major rise in the number of live shows that we do.”
But anyone fearing a similar scenario for CWC can delight in the fact that while there may be new people involved the brand, Mooney and his original team have retained creative control. “We’ve always been approached by companies that either wanted to work with us, or actually buy the company outright,” Mooney noted. “That wasn’t something that we were prepared to do, but we’d talk to some people in any case, and sure enough, they’d ask for total control over the direction we took. But always knew that we were the best people to make the decisions, because we’d been doing this for a long time.”
‘‘
“We went through various deals until we got to a group of people that that would work for. What we wanted to do was create our own public company, a parent company for Cage Wars, which is where Causeway Entertainment arose from - Cage Wars is now a wholly-owned subsidiary of that company. We wanted the company to be valued accurately, and not over-inflated in any way, and for the company to continue to be built responsibly, so that when the share price goes up, it’s because it’s real, and not the figment of someone’s imagination. We want to show people that if you invest in this company, you’ll make money in the immediate six to 18 months, but if you stay with us, we’ll do much more over the course of the next three to five years. We’re thinking of the next 10, 20, or 30 years as opposed to the next five or six months.”
‘‘
they are certain that they want to take; for them, it’s more a case of something sounding like a good idea, and not thinking about the road ahead. But we’ve always tried to do things right, by creating a business structure behind the shows that we run, and having that foundation for the future.”
Lets be in no doubt, Cage Wars was the first ever cage fighting event to take place in the UK and Ireland
Speaking of the publicly limited company, anyone familiar with English football will be able to speak of how becoming a PLC has spelled horror for fans of clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool, whose owners have (or had, in the recent case of Liverpool) driven the club into serious debt.
“So what we wanted to do was keep 55% to 60% of the shares, and have control of the board, because we didn’t want someone coming in and saying that what we were doing was now solely about the bottom line. And while running a company is about the bottom line, in the growth period you have to be less concerned about that, and more so about the value of what you are creating, because that will serve you well in the long run. We had to work with people that believed in what we were doing.”
If the new investment is not going to change the company’s strategy, then, the question is begged as to exactly what benefit it is going to have, especially for the fans. The answers to that question may not be obvious from a viewer’s perspective, but will make the experience of Validation, and future shows, even better for those in attendance, and watching at home.
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Page 38 MMA’S GOLDEN BOY! CAGE WARS CHAMPS
“What it also does is allow us to work on Cage Wars full-time. We’ve taken the brand to where it is with around 20% to 30% of our time, so now that we can work full-time on it, every moment of the day is spent thinking about how to improve the brand, and putting those ideas into action. Even in just the last several weeks, the number of doors that we’ve opened around the world has been remarkable, with potential TV projects that executives are excited to work with us on. Going forward, there’s going to be a lot of stuff that we do that a lot of the other European brands can’t even come close to thinking of.”
“When Cage Wars first started, it was really just a hobby. We worked at it and we put our own money into it; we didn’t make a lot of money, but that was never our goal. All we wanted to do was turn over enough on one show to be able to use it for a second. So what this investment allows us to do is to plan much more in advance, and therefore to be much more productive when it comes to marketing because we can work with advertising agencies, for example, on a longer-term basis.”
Already signed to compete at Validation are UFC veterans Jeremy Horn - who, with 111 fights (86 wins) on his record, is believed to be the record-holder for the most professional MMA contests - and Rich Clementi,
‘‘
defeating Chris Stringer via submission in November 2009. Clementi is full of praise for Mooney and the entire Cage Wars Championship group, stating that they are among the best promotions he’s ever competed for. “I’ve run a lot of casino-level shows here in Louisiana in the past, and to be honest I’ve stopped doing those for now, because of the amount of people that are just coming into the sport to make a fast buck, and don’t really caring about the fighters, or what happens on the shows in the area. But when I first met Patrick and the guys from Cage Wars, I was really impressed with the oldschool mentality that if you do it right, good things will come, and I really respect that about the brand. Cage Wars put on solid fights that the fans want to see, and that’s truly what the sport is about. Y’know, that’s what happened to boxing; the sport started to become all about money, and not about the fights, and that’s one reason that when Cage Wars call me, I’m all on it.”
‘‘
UFC veteran Rich Clementi
Cage Wars were the catalyst for the growth in the Cage fighting/MMA scene in the UK and Ireland today who is appearing for CWC for the second time in as many shows, after
Added to the bouts involving Horn and Clementi, the group have signed a UK lightweight championship tournament, to be contested between Nomaan Khalid, Tommy Maguire, Bobby McVitie, and Ali Maclean. It’s a first championship contest for CWC, and for good reason, with the added incentive that the fighter that claims the beautiful, brand new belt will get to keep it.
“We’ve always stayed away from any title belt whatsoever, because it’s ridiculous to claim that your company has a World title belt, when you don’t hold shows worldwide,” explained Mooney. “One thing that I liked about the UFC in really early days was that when you won the tournament, and the title of UFC champion, you had really earned it. These days people ask questions about where certain fighters are ranked, and with all of the different promotions around, there’s just no way to tell how a fighter stacks up against someone in another organisation. But if a guy walks into a tournament and wins two or three fights in one night, you have to give him the respect afforded to a champion, whether he’s a World champion or not.” “What we want to do is set tournaments up in various regions around the world, like the UK, the rest of Europe, the USA, and Canada, and eventually have tournament
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champions in every region, in every weight class. So that’s why the Lightweight tournament on December 10 is for the UK championship, because in a few years’ time, when we have champions in all of those territories, we’ll be able to bring them together to fight in a tournament for a legitimate, significant World championship.” “With the belt, what we really wanted to have was something of value. When we’ve had fighters come to our shows in the past, sometimes they’ve told us that they’re a champion, but when we ask where their belt is, they tell us that the belt gets taken from them when the leave the cage. There are obvious reasons for that, but when you are going to go to the bother of promoting a champion, you have to give them a belt that they can take back to their hometown, and keep in their trophy room. So our belt is 24karat, gold-plated, with silver nickel, crys-
tal, and nappa leather, and altogether it weighs over 4 kilos - and the fighter who wins the tournament gets to keep it. And there will be a new belt for every title defence; if he defends the title 10 times, he’ll own 10 belts.”
vision for mixed martial arts comes right back to providing for the fighters, and the fans.
“The bottom line is that we want the fighter to be able to use the title positively, to enhance his career,” concluded Mooney. “We want to build those guys, and help to promote them. We want fighters to see that if they work with us, we’re going to build their profile properly, and we’re going to get behind them on a brand that is going places.”
Tickets for Cage Wars Championship “Validation” are available from Ticketmaster, or by calling the Odyssey Arena Box Office on 028 9073 9074.
Since November 2009 and their last event, “Nightmare”, those in charge of Cage Wars Championships have talked TV deals, DVD sales, becoming a PLC, and many other pieces of behind-thescenes business. But at the core, their
Howard Schulz would most-assuredly approve.
If you wish to invest in Cage Wars Championship or Causeway Entertainment, stock is trading on the OTC Bulletin Board, with stock symbol CIST.
By Tom Skates
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Page 40 DEREK CHISORA - A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE
A Different Perspective on
Derek Chisora
An experienced young boxer, around 15 or 16 years of age, trains at this local club. A new member walks in the door, who the young boxer (and other club members) can’t help but notice. Whilst the new member is of a similar age to the young boxer, their size couldn’t be more different. The new member exudes confidence as he walks in the door of the gym, his obviously heavyweight frame not affecting the smoothness of his swagger. Sneering glances are shot at the new member from all the existing boxers, so much so you can almost hear what they are all thinking….‘this guy doesn’t have a clue of what he’s walking into here’ and ‘we won’t see him here for long when the hard work starts’. Blessed with the confidence of his cocky street attitude, the new member struts confidently around the changing rooms, claiming he ‘runs’ the local town. That he is a ‘face’ not to be messed with. The experienced young boxer laughs and tells the new member that he’s lived in the local town all his
life and has never even seen or heard of him – the changing room full of boxers can barely hide their sniggers at this, even feeling some sympathy for the seemingly deluded new member that his ‘street cred’ will carry any weight in the boxing gym.
But, despite reality check experienced by the new member and the alien nature of the hard work to get himself into fighting shape, the new member does keep coming back to the gym. Whilst the new member is perhaps not gifted with a rare god given natural talent, he works hard to ensure that he makes the most of the qualities that he has in the ring; decent hand speed, solid power, a lot of heart. He’s extremely raw in terms of ability but he’s extraordinarily hungry for success. Tough sparring sessions see the new member’s skills improve, smoothening the rough edges. He soon earns respect in the gym. The experienced young boxer is impressed and despite changing boxing clubs, he keeps track of the new member’s progress from a distance. A couple of short years later and the young boxer watches as the new member impressively reaches the heights of British Amateur Boxing by winning the Heavyweight ABA (Amateur Boxing Association) Title, clearly defeating all opponents in front of him. The young
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DEREK CHISORA - A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE Page 3
boxer is astounded. Whilst the new member managed to earn respect in the gym, thoughts that he could reach such heights seemed ludicrous. Yet the new member’s ascent continues as he turns professional. The new member remains unbeaten and wins the British Heavyweight Title, beating a former Mike Tyson conqueror along the way. This is followed by adding the Commonwealth Title in a victory over another rising British Heavyweight on the biggest British boxing show in recent years. The young boxer continues to be astounded by the new member’s progress, but can only watch in admiration, cheering him on from afar. The latest victory catapults the new member to the upper echelons of boxing – a shot at the unified World Heavyweight Title. Sound unbelievable? I can understand that. It sounds like a shortened version of a Rocky movie, minus the excruciating action sequences. But, the story is 100% true and verifiable. This is the true story of Finchley, North London’s Derek Chisora. The 14-0 Heavyweight boxer who has been catapulted into a World Title shot on 11th December 2010 against the Ukrainian Giant, Wladimir Klitschko.
Despite the fight only being made official in the past 24 hours, critics have already rounded on Chisora, claiming he’s not ready for this fight, that a sustained beating could end his top level career for good, that he should gain more experience before stepping into the lion’s den. The young boxer’s story of the new members perseverance should serve as a warning not to write Chisora off, that whilst success may appear a long shot, Chisora does have a chance. A small chance, yes, but if the young boxer had been told Chisora would get this far when he first walked into the gym 10 years ago, he wouldn’t have been able to stop laughing for days. Chisora is undoubtedly the underdog here as he is fighting an accomplished and experienced World Champion, on his adopted home turf in Germany. The crowd will be against him, the difficulty of winning a points decision as a visiting boxer in Germany will be against him. But, write Chisora off at your peril. Even if you consider that he has only a one percent chance of winning this fight, you can be certain he will do all he can to maximize that one percent when he’s in the ring with Klitschko.
Oh and the experienced young boxer that traded insults with him all those years ago? That was me.
By Luke Calvert
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Page 42 CASSIE ROBINSON - BY KRU SHAUN BOLAND
Cassie
Robinson
Rumbling at The Reebok As an instructor/coach you guide and mentor your students to reach their full potential. Some students may take longer than others to reach their full potential and succeed, but nevertheless if they show commitment and heart you will always have something to work with. Occasionally a student will arrive at your gym gifted with natural talent, enthusiasm and a will to succeed. This is indeed a gift for any instructor. Darren Morris, chief instructor for Salford Muay Thai, has received such a gift with his student and fighter, 21 year old Cassie Robinson. Cassie ventured into the Salford gym back in April of 2009 on the advice of her boyfriend at the time, who told her that Muay Thai was an excellent way to
get in shape. Darren Morris remembers thinking that she must have trained before as her technique seemed inch perfect and yet, in fact, Cassie had never had any formal training and had never had a fight, even at school. Under Darren’s tutelage, Cassie trained 3 times a week and took to Muay Thai like the proverbial duck to water. In the August of 2009, after only 4 months of training, Cassie had her first professional fight on the ‘Ultimate lad’s night’ which Darren promoted at the Reebok stadium.
As a footnote; if you have ever been to one of Darren’s promotions, ‘Rumble at the Reebok’ etc, you will know that they are thoroughly professional shows which billboard some of the best fighters in the UK and International fighters such as; Damien Trainor, Daitan Jackson, Andy Thrasher, James France, Frankie Hudders, Andrei Kotsur and Tawatchai Budsadee to name just a few. So not only was this Cassie’s first fight but she was also being presented on one of the best promotions in the country. Her opponent was Paula O’Rouke from Master Alby Bipson’s gym in Liverpool. This was to be a risky first fight as Paula had already chalked up 3 fights and had been training for over 3 years. So, with just 4 months training under her belt, Cassie was having her very first fight against a more experienced fighter. It can always be a risk when you believe your student has a natural talent and you test them from the off, but Darren’s foresight paid off and Cassie didn’t disappoint. Coming out all guns blazing she stopped O’Rouke in the opening seconds of the 2nd round with a barrage of powerful punches.
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CASSIE ROBINSON - BY KRU SHAUN BOLAND Page 43
Still into her first 15 months of training Cassie racked up a further 10 fights with only 2 losses and all this was done within 10 months of her first fight. Cassie even travelled to Canada to fight under full Muay Thai rules against the very coveted Jessica Gladstone, the Canadian ranked number 1, Cassie controversially lost a hard fought fight on points even after putting Gladstone down in the first round and the third causing both the Canadian sport authority and the promoter to be baffled by the decision. However, Cassie was now making ripples in women’s’ Muay Thai. Back on UK soil Cassie went up in weight from 57kg to 59kg, to fight the vastly experienced Gemma Coast for the UKMF Northern area title. Cassie was not fazed at all by Gemma’s experience and won the title on points. So, with a current record of 10 fights of which she has notched up an unprecedented 8 wins and only 2 losses and is the current holder of the UKMF Northern Area title, what’s next for Cassie? Darren Morris is helping to prepare Cassie towards becoming a new breed of UK Thai boxer in that she may well be one of the first to make a living as a
professional fighter. With the current level of purse still very low for UK fighters, Darren says that with careful management and lucrative sponsor deals, Cassie is already making a healthy living and this is a goal to which he both personally and actively is trying to achieve for our sport. Cassie’s next challenge was at ‘Rumble at the Reebok’ in Bolton on October 9th against Cornwall’s highly rated fighter, Lucy Payne. Lucy has a good pedigree and after being in the sport for 8 years had racked up 16 fights, being trained by one of the World’s best pound for pound female fighters, Julie Kitchen. The fight was under full Thai rules and was for the coveted UKMF British title belt. Unfortunately Cassie lost the fight to Lucy via knockout in round 2 due to knees to the head. For a full report of ‘Rumble at the Reebok’ check a future issue of Fighters magazine. This was a big step up for Cassie and helping her prepare her technical skills was non other than Ross ‘the real deal’ Pearson who, along with Mike ‘The Count’ Bisping, now trains at Salford Muay Thai. I refereed Cassie during her last fight at the Rumble and this girl can punch and
kick. For a girl who has only been in the sport for such a little amount of time and with the careful management and tutelage under Darren Morris, Cassie Robinson may well be a name to remember and a destiny to make something very special of herself. If anyone is interested in training at the Salford Muay Thai gym then you can contact them on 0843 444 8462 or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/salfordmuaythai
By Kru Shaun Boland
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Page 44 ISKA & MANNATECH JOIN FORCES
ISKA & Mannatech Join Forces To Aid Their Athletes An Interview with Robert A. Sinnott, Ph.D., MNS, Co-CEO and Chief Science Officer, Mannatech. Cory Schafer, President, International Sport Karate Association.
What is so important about this partnership for both organizations?
R.A SINNOTT: Anytime a prestigious athletic organization like the ISKA handpicks a dietary supplement company to endorse, it speaks volumes to the commitment it has in providing health and wellness to its students. We are honoured to be a part of that mix.
C. SCHAFER: One of our chief priorities is to surround our training center owners and their students with access to the best in health and wellness. Mannatech has exhibited leadership in this industry for years, and we are proud to associate with such a notable brand in the supplement field. In the world of mixed martial arts, there are several partnerships with health products. What makes this different?
C. SCHAFER: As event supervisor for mixed martial arts franchises around the country, including Strikeforce, I know the dedication these athletes have to sustaining physical fitness with muscle building supplements. What this partnership with Mannatech allows us to provide is a natural resource based upon science to provide our athletes with the proper nutrients necessary for healthier living.
Robert Sinnott and inset Corey Schafer
R.A SINNOTT: From MMA to classical martial arts, ISKA represents athletes who understand the need for healthy living. With the ISKA seal endorsing our proprietary “Real Food Technology” solutions, these athletes will have better access to the standardized levels of natural- and plant-sourced nutrients that are so vital to the human body. How do you see this partnership benefiting the martial arts community as a whole?
R.A SINNOTT: Since 1986, ISKA has set an unprecedented standard for competitive martial arts. A reputation like that requires a dietary supplement provider that stresses the same excellence in its field. Mannatech’s Real Food Technology solutions combine cutting-edge science with food-sourced ingredients to create the most nutritionally beneficial products for the human body.
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ISKA & MANNATECH JOIN FORCES Page 45
C. SCHAFER: To Dr. Sinnott’s point, Mannatech was selected by the ISKA because of the quality of personal health and wellness we want to provide to our elite athletes in training centers across the county and around the world. We share Mannatech’s outstanding commitment towards its consumers and associates, and we are proud to forge a long-lasting partnership. What is the outcome of this partnership?
C. SCHAFER: Several of Mannatech’s products will become the only health supplements in the global marketplace to receive an ‘ISKA Certified for Elite Athletes’ seal to feature on its packaging. This product will be available on Mannatech’s website and will eventually be featured in training centers everywhere. R.A SINNOTT: This partnership allows Mannatech’s brand promise and scientifically based products reach many more consumers who may not know about what we offer, but hold the same dedication to real products, real passion and real possibilities. We know this partnership will benefit the thousands of martial arts competitors and enthusiasts in studios where health, fitness and performance are a priority, and it excites us that their members can have a business opportunity to develop out of this partnership as well. Mannatech has several impressive products in its catalogue. Which ones are particularly ISKA certified?
R.A SINNOTT: Mannatech has always prided itself on the science behind our products. They are both NSF- certified and based upon the sustaining nutrients for healthy living. Those products are now recognized, respected and certified by the ISKA. They include: ● Advanced Ambrotose(r) capsules and powder ● Ambrotose(r) complex capsules and powder ● Ambrotose(r) AO capsules ● BounceBack(r) capsules ● Optimal Support Packets ● PhytoMatrix(r) caplets ● PLUS(tm) caplets
Chip Townsend, Team Mannatech athlete and 14-time ISKA world breaking champion
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Page 46 RICHARD SMITH’S BAD COMPANY SEMINAR
Richard Smith’s Bad Company
Clinchwork and Elbows Seminar On Saturday 25th September 2010, Bad Company chief instructor Richard Smith gave his latest ‘Clinchwork and Elbows’ seminar to a select group of Muay Thai exponents from around the country. Anyone with more than a passing interest in Muay Thai will of course be familiar with both Richard Smith and the Bad Company gym, so it was obvious that those attending the seminar would be expecting to take away some useful knowledge. They were not disappointed. After letting the attendees warm up, Richard started the seminar by asking each of the participants to briefly introduce themselves to the rest of the group as an ‘ice-breaker’. This set the scene for a friendly and quite informal session, which was none the less intensive in terms of both the quality and quantity of the information being relayed.
Once happy that everyone had grasped these exercises, Richard started to build on it. Amongst those participating was Bad Company stalwart Richard Cadden, and Richard first demonstrated concepts and techniques with him, before moving around the group to check on their progress and provide advice and correction where needed.
With the introductions out of the way it was time to don the gloves, split into pairs and begin. The first section of the seminar concentrated on footwork, both in the clinch, and moving into it. Richard revealed the dangers of trying to close the difference with a big step, which leaves the front leg vulnerable to attack. He also encouraged the participants to avoid going backwards in the clinch, which again, can leave one vulnerable and off-balance.
Next, Richard moved onto using footwork for body evasion, stepping smoothly around the opponent to always remain in the best position. As each idea was absorbed and processed, he would add to it and develop it further so that the attendees were constantly building on techniques and ideas that they had already assimilated, rather than constantly jumping into new and untried territory for each section.
To the outsider, whether from another Martial Art, or indeed, the layman, the techniques of Muay Thai look very simple and straightforward. Someone seeing the art practised for the first time could be forgiven for thinking that it is purely about being the fastest and hardest hitter. Indeed, the techniques are very direct with a great economy of movement, and none of them are made up of long and complex series’ of individual movements (there simply would be time in a genuine match to pull of those kinds of techniques). Muay Thai is, however, much more complex than it first appears. Whilst the techniques might not appear as expansive as in some other arts, there is a subtlety in their application at the more advanced levels. This became apparent as Richard demonstrated putting pressure on an opponent so that you can use his resistance and forward momentum to set him up for a low kick to the leading leg. It is these, more subtle aspects that can be hardest for practitioners of the art to get used to. However, everyone practised and started getting a feel for it before the next section. Richard then introduced elbow work into the mix. It’s always the point at which people need to be reminded to be careful, as the elbow is such a potentially damaging weapon. Fortunately, all who were present were so absorbed in the learning process that there were no over-zealous movements and everyone was in the ideal receptive state for learning; relaxed and focussed.
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RICHARD SMITH’S BAD COMPANY SEMINAR Page 47
Gradually, Richard had the group putting together everything that they had learned so far, side-stepping kicks and countering; defending the push kick and countering with an elbow; countering with the knee, and so forth. It became apparent that with good footwork as a starting point, your options for attack, defence and counter are considerably widened. At this point in the proceedings, Richard gave everyone a well-earned break. It was an opportunity for everyone to get a drink and ponder on the information that had so far been imparted. After the break, it was time to move into the ring for some application of techniques against the ropes, again using the opponent’s own resistance to open them up to the attack. Once again, the subtlety and strategy inherent in the art showed through. When I first met Richard Smith in 2008, he told me that one of the attractions of Thai Boxing was that it’s quite easy to get fairly good at it but very, very difficult to get very good at it.
Seeing how the layers of understanding of what initially look like very simple moves can be applied, it’s obvious that there is always something new to work on. After adding in some turning and unbalancing techniques, Richard then took the group back out onto the floor to build up to throwing techniques. Throwing techniques are always spectacular (audiences just love to see people hit the deck), but they can be quite difficult to pull of. To anyone who has practised the throws used in Judo or Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai throwing techniques can at first seem difficult, even counter-intuitive. However, once the technique has been embraced, they are an effective way of dumping an opponent on the floor with a bang. Finally, Richard gave a short-talk to sum up the ideas that had been practised, and re-iterated the importance of footwork. It was obvious that everyone had been given plenty to think about and work on in the future. As I have mentioned, it was an insight into some of the subtleties of the art that are often overlooked. Indeed, much of what was practised today would be readily transferable to other arts. This led me to wonder whether Richard had considered giving such seminars to practitioners of other styles:
“Of course,” he confirmed. “In fact, a lot of what we’ve been doing today would be of use to other styles. I’d certainly be interested in working with MMA groups, for instance. It’s something that I’m interested in and I think a lot of this would be useful to them.” For more information, visit the Bad Company website at: www.badcompany.co.uk Alternatively, you can contact Richard by email at: mrsmith@badcompany.co.uk or by telephone on 07885 270267.
Report by Rick Hinchliffe
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KERRY LOUISE PR - BIGFITE LIVE Page 49
Kerry-Louise
By Alexander Evans
BIGfite Live
Dinnington, Sheffield, South Yorkshire! Is this little Mining town tucked away in the corner of our county where you would expect to see one of the countries most elite sporting spectaculars? In fact Dinnington is just about to have its largest and most prestigious sporting event ever held right in the heart of the town. On Saturday 4th December 2010 “Kerry-Louise” (Kerry-Louise Norbury of Anston), the chief instructor to Falcon Fight Academy of Dinnington (www.falconfightacademy.co.uk) will take centre stage at the Lyric Theatre on Laughton Road Dinnington to challenge South African kickboxing champion Natalie van Niekerk in an Intercontinental title fight under WAKO K1 rules. Kerry-Louise, who had a serious car accident a few years ago was told she would never fight again, but now is a 7 times World Pro Kickboxing Champion and was also a Gold Medalist in this years World Combat Games. She has opted for the devastating style of K1 Rules to contend this title and when asked why she answered.... “ I have achieved a lot in my sport, it is certainly not over yet and it is at this time I feel I need another challenge. This time there are dangerous techniques allowed such as Low Kicks into the legs, Knees into the body and face, clinching and the spinning backfist, but unless I test myself I will never know my true potential as an all round fighter. I received the Mayors commendation for my contribution and success in World level sport and I am going to make sure I continue doing this for myself, my students and my coach” Cris Janson-Piers who owns the local academy is also the long term partner of Kerry-Louise and is well known for pro-
ducing many champions as National Coach to the British arm of the World Governing Body to Kickboxing. The Dinnington gym has too many title holders and accolades to mention. Cris commented....”This is going to be big! I know Kerry-Louise has put the work in, but I know the South African girl will not come ill prepared. I used to fight at the Lyric myself many years ago and I know when I hear the National Anthem on the night, I am going to have shivers running down my spine. We only fought at interclub level here in the 80’s under the local greats of that day who have now sadly passed away, Sensei’s Phil Milner and John Robinson and the atmosphere was electric then. We have held two events at the Lyric recently which were both sell outs and this one is certainly only going to leave standing room! (Tickets are on sale now and selling very fast! Ticket hotline 07973 748907). The sanctioning through the World governing body and the cost to bring the South African over and her coach and then accommodate them for 7 days is phenomenal but one Cris says is worth it as this foreign fighter from another continent will add the final prestige required for such a fight. The ticket sales will barely cover the full expenditure of the event but again Cris says he is very confident that KerryLouises sponsors and other sponsors will help alleviate the burden. KerryLouises Local and long term personal sponsor has already placed some
money in the pot. (Cris will be looking for an event sponsor and individual bout and trophy sponsors. This event will be covered by the local press and by all the top Martial Arts National and International magazines. It will serve to promote not only local businesses but any national companies wanting to be seen at the forefront of the art. For all fight fans, local people, family, friends and the inquisitive, come along and watch for yourself the local homegrown talent in Kerry-Louise, who has trained intensively for this event and who promises to give 110% regardless of the outcome. Her intention is to fulfill her extended dream and make everyone proud of her and the area, county and country we all live in! Kerry-Louise will be being interviewed by local radio, newspapers and hopefully television I the next few months, keep your ears and eyes open in the lead up to what can only be one of the biggest fights of this year on the kickboxing scene! A massive thank you to Allsports International of Doncaster (Who have sponsored Kerry-Louises sports food supplementation for several years now which in turn has enabled her to maintain high levels of intensity to win such titles). Cris, who also manages Kerry-Louise can also be contacted by email at crisjansonpiers@googlemail.com
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Page 52 EFC: THE ULTIMATE BATTLE
The Ultimate
Battle
Rise of a Champion - A rumble in Romford ends with a submission ace as champion There aren’t many fighters who are willing to enter the cage three times in one night, but six men came to Romford and stepped forward to test their grit by competing in the tournament for EFC’s middleweight title. Those who made it to the final would have to participate in all stages of contest in one night, with the winner getting the belt and a £5000 prize. It wasn’t just a tournament with some of the UK’s best middleweights on the September 12th card; several semi-pro fights, a boxing bout and professional match ups all resulted in a night of fierce battles and dramatic finishes. Two semi-pros collided in the cage first, but even with their amateur status these guys put on a show that would give professionals a run for their money. Team Conflict’s James Grieves showed excellent wrestling skills in big double leg takedowns, but he had to be weary of Peter Pressland’s superb guard that was constantly hunting for triangles and armbars. In the end it turned out too close to call, Grieves’ aggressive style and Pressland’s submission hunting weighed even in the judges eyes that resulted in a well deserved draw. From MMA we switch to the boxing game, where Tony Munday and Chris Cooch donned the large gloves. The two met under Queensbury rules and
Grieves vs Pressland
which obviously suited Cooch well as he comfortably knocked Munday down with a right hook in the first minute of the first round. Although Munday was the faster fighter, Cooch’s aggressive and powerful punches stormed through Munday’s defences that sent him stumbling around the ring on more than one occasion. The fight ended with the judges giving a clear unanimous decision to Essex’s Cooch. The tension raised as the first round of the middleweight tournament began with Middlesex’s always dangerous Denniston Sutherland taking on seasoned pro Steve Dossett in a stand up war. Although Dossett landed a superb spinning back fist and Sutherland got a
Munday vs Cooch
takedown, it was the clean and powerful strikes which gave Sutherland the advantage. Dossett’s confidence waned in the second and Sutherland brutalised him with punches in the clinch until the doctor called a stop to the fight due a cut over Dossett’s eye, giving the win to Sutherland via TKO. The second preliminary tournament bout had two fighters that both had reputations for being the most fearless out there. Sheffield’s Shaun Lomas used his big powerful hooks to keep SWS Fightclub’s Earl Brown on the back foot, but Brown had been working on his wrestling and showed some slammed Lomas to the mat with some takedowns. Loma’s aggressive ground
Lomas vs Brown
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Sutherland vs Dossett
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Page 54 EFC: THE ULTIMATE BATTLE
Da Silva vs Aurelijus
and pound was too much for Brown’s impressive grappling and Lomas etched out the win from the judges. Claudio Henrique Da Silva is as well known for his submission skills as for his superb performance at EFC’s last event. Although the mysterious fighter Claudio faced, simply known as Aurelijus, marched forward with no fear, there was no time wasted in Da Silva taking the fight to his zone with a double leg takedown. Aurelijus put up a good fight attempted to scramble out of Da Silva’s mount, but the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt set up a sweeping armbar from guard that got him the tap and through to the next round. Next we came back to the semi-pros and Team Conflicts Dan Cowan struggled to find his ground against Nathan Cook of Ministry of Martial Arts, Rayleigh, Essex from the start. Although Cowan managed to reverse Cook’s takedown, it didn’t take long for Cook to sweep and then press on to get to the mount. After one painful looking americana and armbar attempt, Cook kept excellent control in the mount
Cowan vs Cook
until he tied up another americana submission that Cowan could not gut his way through, tapping out and giving Cook the win. Two Essex boys came to touch gloves, but Gracie Barra’s Greg Burrows put a bit too much faith in Fight Club Essex’s Lole Watts who came changing after him as soon as the sportsmanship gesture was over. Burrows made his attentions clear in constantly wanting to get it to the ground, pressing Watts against the fence. Showing excellent takedown defence, Watts kept the fight standing and hurt Burrows in several breaks with dirty boxing and strong right hands. A staggered fight that Watts won by decision due to his crisp punching and clinch work. The semi-finals of the tournament had began with Denniston Sutherland facing Shaun Lomas. Sutherland’s excellent grappling won him the first round with a huge takedown and solid control on the ground, despite Lomas’ good hip movement, that got into mount on a couple of occasions. In the second Sutherland kept the fight in his favour by getting the takedown again
Sutherland vs Lomas
Watts vs Burrows
after a strong right hand that shook Lomas. Never giving up, Sheffield’s Lomas always looked to recover but had little counter to Sutherland’s superior technique. It went to the final bell and a clear judges’ decision in favour of Sutherland. Earl Brown had been given the draw to get a second chance in the tournament, but his match up in the semi-finals was the submission magician Claudio Da Silva. Once again Da Silva straight away got a big double leg take down and proceeded to pass to mount. Brown tried to escape, but Da Silva was waiting for him and wrapped up an armbar as they rolled over. Brown struggled to get his arm free, but Da Silva extended his hips and Earl was in checkmate. Da Silva got the submission win and his name in the final to face Sutherland. MMA Clinic’s Ben Hair knew he had to be wary of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu brown belt Spencer Hewitt’s ground skills, but he must have been taken by surprise when Hewitt landed an uppercut that knocked him onto his back. Hewitt swarmed on his dazed opponent, but Hajir recovered well to protect himself. Hewitt knew he could end it though and held nothing back as he rained down punches on Hajir, leaving an opportunity for Hewitt to take the back. Once he had the hooks in Hewitt worked slowly to threaten the neck, tightening it up until the rear naked choke was in and Hajir had to tap. The main event was set between Claudio Da Silva and Denniston Sutherland, both eager to become EFC’s first middleweight champion and the bold claim they had defeated three fighters in one night. There was no mistaking Da Silva’s intentions, but Sutherland made his presence known landing a strong straight right hand that temporarily put the Brazilian on shaky legs. Claudio knew he could not mess around in the stand up and dove for the legs, tripping Sutherland down but not getting him to the mat. As the two scrambled Da Silva climbed onto the back of Sutherland as he stood up to escape, leaving Claudio to be carried around like a backpack. Sutherland tried to fight off his impending fate, but Da Silva crept his arm round and closed up the rear naked choke. After a few seconds Denniston collapsed to the floor, going to sleep before he hit the
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ground. As Denniston laid passed out on the floor, the submission master stood above him celebrating his win and the ownership of belt that said “Middleweight Champion”. For more information about EFC and their upcoming events, head to http://www.efc-mma.co.uk
Da Silva vs Sutherland
Da Silva vs Brown
Hajir vs Hewitt
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Page 56 EFC: THE ULTIMATE BATTLE
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Claudio Da Silva shows great sportsmanship by helping Deniston Sutherland a fter their thrilling fight!
EFC promoter Ian Gerrans center with James Knight (l) & Matt Pinkerton (r)
Claudio Da Silva celebrates his victory with EFC promoter Ian Gerrans and ring girls
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Page 58 STRIKEFORCE - FEIJAO SHOCK’S ‘KING MO’
Strikeforce Feijao shocks “King Mo” HOUSTON – Hard-hitting striker Rafael Feijao shocked STRIKEFORCE World Light Heavyweight (205 pounds) Champion “King Mo” Lawal with a devastating third round knockout in Saturday’s SHOWTIME® televised main event at STRIKEFORCE: Houston at Toyota Center. In a tactical co-feature, world-class submission specialist Ronaldo “Jacare” Souza captured the vacant STRIKEFORCE World Middleweight (185 pounds) Championship with a unanimous decision over American military hero Tim Kennedy. In an all-action fight, Mo (7-1) was the aggressor in the first, scoring a body slam in the opening minute of the round. But, Feijao (10-2) was unfazed by the take down and got to his feet without suffering any significant damage. After trading punches in the second, Feijao came out swinging in the third. He landed a few strong combinations and caught Mo with a powerful knee. Clearly wounded, Mo tried to take his opponent to the ground to minimize the damage but, while locked up standing, Feijao battered Mo with a series of brutal slashing elbows to Mo’s head, knocking him out at 1:14. “I hit him hard with the right hand and the
Lawal vs Feijao
knee,” Feijao said. “I saw he was hurt, but I was just going to continue to hit him. I felt his grip loosening and knew that he was done. “I have a new coach in boxing and Muay Thai that made the difference. “I just made my dream. I saw in his last fight he wanted to get inside. My strategy worked perfectly.” A wounded Mo was disappointed but not dejected in his performance. “I just got to make a few adjustments,” Mo said. “He fought a hell of a fight, but I’m not worried. I’ll come back stronger.” Jacare (13-2-1) wasn’t able to get Kennedy to the ground, but his effective and relentless counterpunching was
the difference maker in the fight. A deep gash opened up over Kennedy’s left eye early in the third round. Kennedy (12-3) tried taking the fight to the mat, but it was ineffective against Jacare, who was the superior striker landing the harder, crisper punches. Kennedy continued to attack Jacare throughout the fight, never giving up, but was unable to land anything that hurt his opponent. “I felt through the fight that he felt my hand,” Jacare said. “I was landing some big punches and I thought I was winning the fight. I was ready to fight everywhere in the cage, but I was surprised how strong he was. He was strong, but I was the one connecting and landing the damaging punches.” Kennedy, who landed more punches with a higher percentage, was a bit surprised in the unanimous decision loss. “I was really frustrated with the end result,” Kennedy said. “Jacare is an amazing contender and now a champion. I was humbled that I was able to go five rounds with him, but I think it goes without saying that I’d like another five rounds with that guy. It’s going to be different.“We’re talking about the most decorated grappler in the planet. I expected him to want to grapple. He countered with me the whole time and I was surprised. I should have put more pressure on him. The only time anyone got dropped in the fight was when I dropped him, but he’s got the belt.” In a featured lightweight (155 pounds) bout, KJ Noons scored a second round KO (:19) over fearless brawler and
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Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt Jorge Gurgel in a short, but spectacular match.The two exchanged powerful punches in the first, but a powerful and controversial blow from Noons a split second after the sound of the closing bell for the first round proved to be the difference. Noons (10-2) came out swinging in the second, landing an overhand right followed by a left hook that sent Gurgel (13-7) flying to the canvas. He followed it up with punches on the ground, but the fight was clearly over as Gurgel could not recover. “By any means am I a dirty fighter, no,” Noons said. “I was just going in there to try to engage and get the round. I was in the heat of the moment and I couldn’t stop my hands as they were going. It wasn’t cheap and I’m not trying to be dirty – I’m just trying to finish the fight. I didn’t’ intentionally do it, it’s just the rush”.
“I thought it was a great fight. He had a really good game plan. He was moving around the ring and was trying to get me to engage more. I just knew I had to not over commit on my punches and my kicks and I’d be able to keep standing. I’m not surprised he didn’t take me down.” Gurgel didn’t make any excuses or complaints in losing. “I apparently got hit a couple of times when the round was up, but it’s not KJ’s fault,” Gurgel said. The referee is responsible for separating the fighters. I’m not taking anything away from (KJ) He landed a good right hand and a left hook. “I have no excuses whatsoever. I came up short in my performance and I’m really upset. I thought I had his number. I’ve never been rocked before. I’ve had 20 professional fights and I’ve never felt that. KJ is a world class fighter.”
In the opening fight of the SHOWTIME telecast, Chad Griggs won an upset, TKO victory over previously unbeaten Bobby Lashley at the end of the second round. An experienced and talented wrestler, Lashley immediately took the fight to the ground in the first round. He expended a lot of energy trying to hit Griggs (9-1) while on the ground, but Griggs was able to counter and opened up a gushing cut over Lashley’s left eye.Once again, Lashley (5-1) took the fight to the ground in the second, but his punches didn’t do enough damage to the more experienced Griggs. The cut worsened with Lashley apparently gassed in the closing moments of the second round and the referee called the bout immediately following the conclusion of the round.
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“This is a dream come true fighting for STRIKEFORCE. I got offered a big fight right off the bat and I’m super pumped I got the win,” Griggs said. “I know he was bleeding all over me. I think he was tired and he was hurt already. I think it was a good call to end it.“I felt him starting to fade a little bit at the end of the first round. I could hear him breathing really hard and could feel him using a lot of muscle to land punches. I was comfortable because he wasn’t really catching me and he was using a lot of energy. I don’t think that he’s really been hit before or been tested. I could see it in his eyes that the fight was changing. He was still hustling, but I think he was losing some heart in there.”
Jacare vs Kennedy
Results: STRIKEFORCE World Light Heavyweight Championship Rafael Feijao def. “King Mo” Lawal – KO (elbows) – Round 3 (1:14) STRIKEFORCE World Middleweight Championship Jacare Souza def. Tim Kennedy – Unanimous Decision – 49-46, 48-47 twice. KJ Noons def. Jorge Gurgel – KO (strikes)– Round 2 (:19) Chad Griggs def. Bobby Lashley – TKO – End of Round 2 NON-TELEVISED UNDERCARD Daniel Cormier def. Jason Riley – Submission (strikes) – Round 1 (1:02)
Andre Galvao – def. Jorge “Macaco” Patino – TKO (strikes) – Round 3 (2:45) Vinicius “Draculino” Magalhaes – def. Rocky Long – Unanimous Decision – 29-28, 30-27, 30-27. Adam Schindler def. Kier Gooch – Submission (Rear Naked Choke) Reynaldo “The Truth” Trujillo def. Jose Santibanez – TKO (Strikes)
Chad “Robo” Robichaux def. Humberto DeLeon – Split Decision – 29-28 (Robichaux), 29-28 (DeLeon), 2928 (Robichaux) Artenas Young def. Chad Cook, – Unanimous decision – 30-27, 298-28, 30-27
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Page 62 MARTIAL COMBAT 11 - EVOLVE MMA RULES
Martial Combat
11
Evolve MMA rules the roost at Martial Combat 11. Penultimate Martial Combat fight sees first female title fight go to Sun Jiao of China SINGAPORE, 15 October 2010 - The crowd at Resorts World Sentosa were privileged to witness fantastic, action packed fights at Martial Combat 11, highlighted by Evolve MMA dominating Martial Combat 11 with three fighters hauling in first-round submission wins. Zhang Mei Xuan China 4-0-0 vs Reggie Amarante Philippines 3-0-0 Winner: Zhang wins via unanimous decision Amarante had a troubled youth but is now a reformed character who does all of his fighting inside the cage. He is a boxer who is famous in the Philippines for appearing on a reality TV show. His opponent, Zhang, comes from a Sanda background but is also a competent wrestler.
Xuan vs Amarante
Zhang landed a couple of hard low kicks and followed up with a head kick which dropped Amarante. This only seemed to bring out the brawler in the Filipino fighter and soon overcame his difficulty finding his range against a taller opponent. As the round went on, Amarante began to connect, chasing Zhang around the cage and throwing wild hooks. In round two, Zhang dropped Amarante with another head kick but the Filipino
came back banging again looking to use his boxing. Amarante went for the takedown but Zhang sunk in a deep guillotine which the Filipino fighter eventually managed to escape from. Sensing he is behind on the scorecards, Amarante attempted a takedown straightaway in the final round. Once again, he walked straight into a guillotine attempt and again was able to escape. Zhang went for a kimura but ended up mounted and gives up his back trying to escape. Amarante went for a rear naked choke but Zhang exploded out of the submission attempt and gets back to his feet. Zhang looked to finish the fight and landed some heavy leg kicks, which took some of the spring out of Amaranteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s step.
Mitchell Wheeler USA Debut vs Arthur Cesar Brazil 12-4-0 Winner: Cesar by knee bar after 0:36 of round one. Cesar of Evolve MMA is a BJJ black belt who is currently enjoying a winning streak of five fights. His opponent,
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Ritch vs Elbe
Choi vs Wang
Wang Jin Gan China 5-0-0 vs Brian Choi South Korea / Singapore 3-1-0 Winner: Choi via kimura after 1:57 of round one
Wheeler, has an impressive amateur record but is facing a serious step up in opposition on his professional debut. Wheeler is a beast of a man and looks to be the stronger of the two fighters but Cesar is much more experienced and appears to be a strong favourite to win. Cesar gets an early takedown, sinks in a knee bar and finishes the fight after only 36 seconds.
Wheeler vs Cesar
Choi is a wrestling instructor at Evolve MMA who already holds one Martial Combat win to his name. He is up against a Sanda specialist who also has experience in Muay Thai and boxing. After a patient start, Choi shoots for a takedown and presses his opponent up against the cage where he is able to submit him with a kimura.
Shannon Ritch USA 45-70-0 vs Ray Elbe USA 24-11-0 Winner: Ray Elbe after 0:57 This is a rematch which has been six years in the making. Both men are BJJ black belts but Ritch won by submission the first time they met, handing Elbe a loss he has been desperate to avenge.
With more than 150 incredible fights between them, this was a rare match in Asian MMA history where two fighters bring so much collective experience into the cage. Ritch somersaults to the centre of the cage to receive the refereeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s instructions and both fighters look motivated for this contest. Elbe stalks his opponent but Ritch goes for the takedown and hoists him up in the air. Elbe is undeterred and looks to sink in a midair guillotine. Ritch slams him to the canvass but Elbe sinks in a triangle choke to leave his opponent unconscious on the canvass after less than a minute.
Sun Jiao China 3-1-0 vs Ella Tang Malaysia Debut Winner: Sun Jiao via ground and pound 4:25 of round three The first female title fight in Martial Combat history saw Sun Jiao of China against Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ella Tang. Sun made her mark at Martial Combat 5 where she fought impressively but lost against Claire Haigh of England and was looking to get back to winning ways. Tang was making her MMA debut and has a background in Muay Thai and Sanshou.
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Both came out banging, and Sun landed some accurate solid punches to the body and head of her opponent. The action was briefly interrupted when Tang lost her mouth guard, but it was the calm before the storm as Sun began to unload as soon as the fight resumed. Tang was getting absolutely battered but showed no signs of quitting, while the question for Sun was how much did the five-minute onslaught took out of the Chinese. Sun appeared to be pacing herself at the start of the second round, and that was when Tang started to come back into the fight. The Malaysian was still eating punches but at a much lower frequency and both fighters looked like they are beginning to feel the pace. Sun appeared rejuvenated in the final round and landed some vicious combinations to her opponent’s body and head. Tang’s response was to go for the takedown but she ended up in Sun’s guard. The Chinese fighter reversed the position and ended up briefly in mount before Tang escaped as both looked for simultaneous leg locks. The referee stopped the action and deducted a point from Tang for an illegal kick to the head of her grounded opponent, meaning that the Malaysian fighter needed a knockout to win. Despite knowing that a decision win is virtually
Sun Jiao vs Ella Tang
guaranteed, Sun wanted to finish the fight and got her as she moved into the mount and rained down several vicious elbows before giving the referee no option but to call a halt to the contest.
Liu Guo Quan China 3-1-0 vs Leandro Issa Brazil 8-2-0 Winner: Issa via arm triangle after 1:08 of round one Issa is a BJJ world champion and was looking to make it three out of three Martial Combat wins. His opponent Liu Guo Quan from China is an experienced Sanda fighter who has been working hard on his ground game.
Issa vs Quan
Issa approached the cage accompanied by an army of Evolve MMA team mates, and the Brazilian had a lot of pressure with his club’s winning record weighing on his shoulder. Liu was expected to have a slight advantage in the stand up department but Issa looked very comfortable on his feet and threw a few strikes of his own before shooting for the takedown. Brazilian was in his element once the fight went to the floor quickly mounted his opponent and swiftly submitted him with an arm triangle.
Sun Jiao vs Ella Tang
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Page 66 MARTIAL COMBAT 12 - CONCLUDES ON A HIGH
Martial Combat
12
Inaugural season of Resorts World Sentosa Martial Combat concludes on a high Martial Combat 12 provides a stunning finale for Asia’s biggest MMA event SINGAPORE, 16 October 2010 - Martial Combat’s inaugural year ended with a stunning finale in front of a sold out crowd at Resorts World Sentosa, highlighted by three mixed martial arts super stars who have emerged over the course of the 12 shows. Yeun Seob Kwak USA 7-6-0 VS Zorobabel Moreira Brazil/Singapore 3-1-0 Winner: Moreira by rear naked choke after 1:42 Both men were looking to bounce back from disappointing losses. Moreira was knocked out by welterweight prospect Joe Ray after just 13 seconds in June’s Martial Combat 3 while Kwak suffered a first round submission loss to Moreira’s team mate Arthur Cesar. Kwak is highly experienced and has fought for a Muay Thai world title, whereas Moreira is a black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Kwak was supposedly the superior striker but Moreira looked confident on his feet and landed a couple of kicks before taking his opponent down. The Brazilian softened his opponent up with some ground and pound before taking his back and sank a rear naked choke. The Evolve MMA team rushed to congratulate their fighter who would be delighted to have bounced back from the first loss of his fledgling career.
Chris Barnett Spain 5-0-0 vs Eric Prindle USA 1-1-0 Winner: Eric Prindle by majority decision Martial Combat keeps getting bigger and the final show of the year featured the two biggest fighters ever seen in Singapore. Eric ‘American Soldier’ Prindle weighed in at 132 kg while his opponent, Chris ‘Beast Boy’ Barnett hit the scales at 136 kg. Barnett is an up and coming fighter who is amazingly agile for his size and has already been tipped for the top. With a background in traditional martial arts such as Judo and Taekwondo he has a slightly unorthodox skill set. Prindle is a former US soldier and a well decorated boxer during his military days. He is now focusing exclusively on his MMA career and has been training extensively with reigning UFC heavyweight champion Brock Lesnar. With a combined weight in excess of 250 kg, these two fighters rocked the crows at Resorts World Sentosa. At the start of the fight, Barnett landed a hard kick and they clinch up against the cage and he looked for the takedown. They
break and Barnett connected with a superman punch before the action is briefly halted due to a groin strike. Barnett continued to surprise the crowd considering his size and attempted a crowd pleasing spinning back kick. He looked for another takedown but ended up underneath. Barnett was able to escape and as they rise to their feet he flings Prindle to the floor. Barnett moveed from side control into the mount and used his massive weight to pin his opponent to the floor and landed some ground and pound. The Resorts World Sentosa crowd sounded their appreciation for these giant warriors as the bell rang to end the opening round. Round two began with an eye catching, albeit ineffective, spinning kick from Barnett who then caught Prindle’s kick and worked for the takedown. They break and Barnett bull rushes Prindle against the cage, which withstood the impact , much to the relief of the spectators in the front rows. Prindle landed a big right hand but Barnett shook it off. Both men began to brawl throwing wild haymakers to the
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Kwak vs Moreira
Barnett vs Prindle
delight of the crowd. Barnett tried a spinning back fist but receives a hard kick for his troubles. A groin strike halted the action again with both men grateful for a break. The fight resumed with a few seconds left in the round and Prindle landed a head kick right on the buzzer but once again Barnett shakes it off.
effective strikes from the bottom. Barnett preserves enough energy for an end-of-round onslaught, presumably for the benefit of the judges.
Prindle appeared to have more left in the tank in round three as Barnett attempted to pick him up but was unable to complete the takedown. Barnett is exhausted and Prindle begins to systematically pick him apart with kicks and body shots. Barnett caught a kick and took Prindle down, moving instantly into mount. Prindle tied him up well and was able to land some
Winner: Laursen via ground and pound after 2:18
Laursen vs Kai
Chee Jian Kai Malaysia 1-0-0 vs Ole Laursen Denmark/ Philippines 4-2-0
Malaysia has never been renowned for its MMA fighters but there are growing signs that this might gradually change. Chee is the latest to emerge from the burgeoning MMA scene in Malaysia but he was facing a real baptism of fire against the crowd favourite Ole Laursen.
Laursen is one of the top fighters in the region and was looking to put on show for the Singapore fans after a slightly lackluster performance in his last fight. Born in the Philippines but raised in Denmark, he is a world class Muay Thai fighter with a rapidly evolving ground game. Chee is a veteran of over 30 Muay Thai fights but was a major underdog against Laursen who has won his last four MMA fights and has not been beaten since 2006. Laursen stalked his opponent but gets rocked by a flush left hook and Chee swarmed all over him looking for an early finish. Laursen regained his composure and worked for a submission.
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Vuyisile Colossa S.Africa 2-0-0 vs Eduard Folayang Philippines 8-1-0
Haigh vs Forrest
Winner: Folayang via unanimous decision This was probably the most eagerly anticipated fight in Martial Combat history. Colossa looked hugely impressive against Alex Niu at Martial Combat 7 and is a Muay Thai world champion who holds a win over Contender Asia winner Yodsanklai Fairtex.
He moved into mount and trapping Chee’s arm, began to pepper him with punches. The Malaysian clearly did not intelligently defend himself and the referee had no option but to step in and stop the fight.
Eilleen Forrest Australia 0-2-0 vs Claire Haigh England 5-0-0 Winner: Haigh via rear naked choke after 2:06 of round three Featuring two top-ranked Muay Thai fighters from opposite ends of the globe - Claire Haigh from the UK has really made a name for herself by fighting and training in Thailand, while Forrest of Australia is fast establishing a reputation as one of the top Muay Thai fighters there. Forrest also has professional boxing experience, but Haigh has been working hard on becoming much more than just a Muay Thai fighter and showed off her new found versatility by beating one of the most recognizable female fighters in the world, Angie Parr, on her MMA debut. Haigh previously put on a great show at Martial Combat 5 to defeat Chinese
Colossa vs Folayang
fighter Sun Jiao with her clinch work and superior ground game making the difference. While both fighters will feel equally comfortable on their feet, Haigh was confident of imposing her superior ground game on Forrest if she could take the fight to the floor. Both fought for position in classic Muay Thai style, and Haigh landed a couple of trademark leg kicks before the two fighters went for the clinch. Haigh seemed to have the better of the exchanges and landed a couple of hard knees to Forrest’s mid section. Forrest shot for the takedown but it was easily stuffed by Haigh. The Australian fighter used her reach to good effect, landing a series of jabs, but Haigh continued to pepper the inside and outside of her left leg with kicks throughout the round. The second round followed a similar pattern to the first with Forrest’s lead leg taking some sustained punishment. They clinch against the cage again but once again no fighter was able to gain a clear advantage. Haigh is the busier of the two fighters but Forrest countered with punches to good effect. Haigh narrowly missed a high kick at the end of round two. Forrest went for a takedown early in the final round but Haigh ended up in a dominant position and moved into side control. Forrest tied Haigh up well but ate a few elbows in the process. Haigh won her Martial Combat fight via ground and pound but she showed her versatility by sinking in a rear naked choke to win the fight.
The South African who is now based in Hong Kong has had no problem making the transition to MMA, showed some crisp, accurate striking skills against Niu. Colossa even held a submission victory to his win and is working hard to become a truly well-rounded mixed martial artist. Folayang is close to being the finished product and has three wins to his name already this year. He has a background in Sanda but was forced to rely on his wrestling to get a decision win in his last fight against Bao She Ri Gu Leng after being picked apart for the opening two rounds. Folayang is rumoured to be on the verge of being offered a contract by the UFC but Colossa feels he has at least as much potential as the Filipino and wants to prove it with a win over him at Martial Combat 12. Folayang landed a couple of inside leg kicks before hoisting Colossa up and slamming him to the canvas. This was not where the South African wanted to be but he escaped and exploded to his feet. Colossa patiently continued to stalk Folayang without ever really pulling the trigger. Folayang was able to repeatedly take Colossa down but was unable to capitalize with strikes or a submission. Colossa looked very composed but with Folayang seemingly taking him down at will, needed to pick up the pace in order to impress the judges. He finally managed to land a sharp left hook on the break but Folayang is comfortably outworked him as the bell sounded to end the opening round. Colossa started the second round with more aggression but Folayang wasted little time in taking him down. Colossa looked for a guillotine but the Filipino fighter wriggled free. Colossa landed a
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knee and Folayang countered with a combination of punches which appear to wobble the South African. Colossa began to impose his stand up skills backing Folayang up. The Filipino appeared reluctant to engage but managed to take Colossa down yet again. This time Colossa was able to reverse the position and took Folayang’s back but the Filipino escaped and reversed the position. Normal service is resumed at the start of round three with Colossa stalking Folayang and the Filipino backpedalling frantically. Colossa took Folayang down and looked for another rear naked choke but just when he seemed to have it sunk in, Folayang somehow escapes and reversed the position. Colossa showed a real willingness to attempt submissions and Folayang was forced to escape from a standing kimura attempt but Folayang’s takedowns are still the story of this fight. Colossa landed a push kick which sends Folayang flying across the ring and provokes a furious exchange at the end of the round which Folayang ended up on the ground with Colossa on top of him
Chilson vs Bing
raining down blows, one of which opened a sizeable cut above his left eye. Again Colossa looks for a rear naked choke and again Folayang appears to be in trouble but wriggles free.
had to be found after the Korean withdrew with injury. Xue Guo Bing, an Art of War veteran who is primarily a Sanda fighter, has been working hard on his ground game.
With the clock ticking away Colossa went absolutely ballistic chasing Folayang around and throwing a flurry of strikes which saw the Filipino literally running for his life. The bell rang with both fighters engaged in a furious exchange and the audience rose to sound their appreciation.
It was fitting that the 2010 Martial Combat series should finish with a fight featuring Singapore’s most famous fighter. Chilson was looking to make it a night to remember by adding to the increasingly impressive collection of belts at Evolve MMA.
Mitch Chilson USA/Singapore 5-1-0 vs Xue Guo Bing China 8-1-0 Winner: Mitch Chilson via rear naked choke after 1:26 of round one Local hero Mitch Chilson captured the imagination of the Resorts World Sentosa crowd, as well as a Superfight belt, at Martial Combat 2. Chilson, who lives and works in Singapore, emerged victorious from a bloody battle with Zhang Jing Xiong courtesy of a dramatic third round knock out. He was originally scheduled to fight Jong Man Kim but another opponent
After a tentative start Chilson landed a takedown but Xue was able to spring back to his feet. The Singapore based fighter took him down again and escaped a guillotine to move into mount. Chilson began to tee off but Xue was extremely composed and escapes again, only to be a victim of another takedown and mounted, as the bell sounded to end the round. The game plan for Chilson was to take the fight to the floor and he did so early in round two. Xue gives up his back in an attempt to escape and Chilson made him pay by sinking in his hooks and securing a rear naked choke for the victory.
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Page 70 HISTORY IN THE MAKING 4 @ KELHAM HALL
History In
The Making @ Kelham Hall Saturday 16th October 2010
So much pressure was on the shoulders of Chad Sugden (16) History in the Making 4 / Whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the Daddy? A packed Kelham Hall rocked as their local young sporting hero was due to face his toughest challenge to date against Brooklyn bomber David Lenson from New York. A great Amateur Fight on the undercard to the most anticipated Professional contest of the year between Jamie Bates and Andrew Tate. Prior to this epic dust up Regis Sugden (15) was in action. Regis was up against a last minute change in opponent due to a hand injury of his scheduled opponent. Regis and NMA camp never to shy away from a challenge or fight. Regis took on the heavier opponent from Gladiators gym in Long Eaton Robin Lowe. Regis weighed in at 59kg and Robin 62kg. When the boys came to the middle of the ring Regis looked the smaller of the 2 but was in immaculate shape. As the first bell sounded everybody waited in anticipation to see how Regis would take to the different style. Wearing just shin and insteps within a few seconds Regis connected with a stunning round house kick to the head followed by strong knees. Robin tried to respond but Regis calmly and coolly made him miss and made him pay.
Robin tried to clinch Regis but Regis pulled him in and worked even turning him as they both landed on the canvas. Regis inside work looked natural and his power and speed looked immense. The end of the first round ended in Regis putting his man down for a count of 8 with tremendous body kick. The second round Regis was in devastating form and carrying on with clinical knees, kicks to head and body. Regis landed a perfectly timed spinning kick which sent his opponent reeling. This time Regis stepped in and knocked his opponent to the floor. The Ref started his count but on 8 although his opponent was up was deemed in no position to continue. As the fight was stopped the celebrations started. Regis winning his second K-1 Rules bout with an immaculate performance and explosive stoppage.
Fahey vs Barrett
Salter vs Ta te
NMA had a good night with wins for debutant Stella Oxley stopping Laura Burnett from Kuei Ling from South Shields in the second round. Lewis Fallon defeated Dimitri Kalatis from Scorpio gym in Middlesboro in a close 3 rounder under full contact rules. This win for NMA was followed by a defeat for Mickey Blackburn against the up and coming Ryan Edmunson from Highlander Kickboxing in Bristol. This was a last minute change due to weight differences on the scales. Ryan original opponent Mushy Younis from USKA defeated the game and durable cage fighter from MDMA gym in Hull. Shortly after these contests Newark Martial Arts Irish Club (NMA Ireland) ran by Ross Barrett brought Dillon O Connor over to fight Ben Fahey from
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Chikara in Lincoln. It was a close fight but Dillon the lesser experienced of the two fighters came away with a majority points win. This was a real unification bout as Dillon the current IKF and JFCC 5 Nations Champion took on and defeated WAKO Pro British Champion Ben Fahey in a close contest.
affair with the fight swinging both ways during the 5 rounds for the vacant British IKF Title. After 5 very hard fought rounds with both fighters landing big shots it was anyone guess who was going to get the judge’s decision. It was declared a draw so watch out Newark these 2 big guys could be doing it again.
Then it was time for Newark first title fight and Kelham Hall is just the BEST venue for any fight. Never mind a title fight. Steve Salter from NMA against Tristan Tate from Storm Gym in Luton. This was the first Tate brother to fight on the show and it was a very close
The main event on the amateur card was the UNIFICATION TITLE FIGHT between 2 cadets that had proved them to be the best in the World after winning no fewer than 5 World Titles. The stage was set for Chad “2 Slick” Sugden, could he end
Regis vs Lowe
his Junior career with a win that would cap a career which is unrivalled and has culminated in him winning 10 Championship Belts including 3 World Titles. The stakes were high as not only was the IKF World Welter Weight Title on the line. But the Junior Full Contact Council had agreed that the winner would receive their World Championship Belt as this Title fight was regarded as The Undisputed Best Junior / Cadet in the World. Chad still 16 could technically defend this title for another 18 months. But realistically the opponents U18 have dried up and
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Page 72 HISTORY IN THE MAKING 4 @ KELHAM HALL
Chad vs Lenson
David Lenson from Brooklyn New York 2 x World Classic Champion was the only one left out there to beat. Chad came into the fight as IKF Light Weight World Champion, Golden Belt World Champion and EFK World Champion under Full Contact Rules. The crowd went wild as all the Kids that Chad helps teach at The Martial Arts Centre on Castlegate lead him out with each of his belts. David looked unfazed and confident as he and Chad came face to face in the centre of the ring. The noise and atmosphere was electric as the fight started. Within 30 seconds of the first round if anyone thought this was going to be an easy outing for Chad there were wrong. David had come to fight and had incredible hand speed and
timing. Chad attacked and David countered. David attacked and Chad countered. It was an incredible exchange of skill, strength and speed beyond their years. This first round was without doubt probably the hardest round of Chads kickboxing career. The NMA camp reevaluated the situation and decided to change tactics slightly to ensure that Chad remained in control. Winning the first 3 rounds in a 5 round fight is absolutely crucial. Chad started to land some of his trade mark kicks in second and third round which David had evaded in the first. Chad also put his foot on the gas earlier and went through the gears earlier than we had planned to cope with the Americans fast start. These tactics worked well as Chad got stronger and David started to tire which enabled Chad to really stamp his authority on this massive fight. David continued to try and close the gap. Chad mixing it up really well showed an incredible amount of flexibility and versatility with his punching and kicking. The variety of techniques being used by Chad seem to cause David more problems as the rounds went on. Although every round was competitive Chad was convincing in his approach to winning each round. Chad continued to show resilience and as always a slick fighting style. Choosing to trade and mix it up at times then showing David why he is called “2 Slick” with head movement and awesome footwork. The last round saw Chad really step on the gas and pressure his fighter as someone’s unbeat-
Chad vs Lenson
en record had to go. Chad had his best round of the fight and although the American raised his arms there was only going to be one winner. After a tense wait Chad’s hand was raised as he was declared The Undisputed World Champion to delight of the Newark Crowd. Everyone was on their feet as the MC announced by UNANIMOUS decision and NEW UNDISPUTED CHAMPION OF THE WORLD from Newark Chad Sugden. Shortly after Grand Master Goff Bates who is the most senior and highest ranking official in the UK presented Chad with the Junior Full Contact Council Belt in recognition for what he had achieved in unifying all the World Titles. It was probably the most remarkable sporting moment ever achieved by such a young man. I have been saying for a while now he just improves and improves. Tonight there was incredible pressure on his shoulders at 16 years of age. Chad felt that everything he had ever achieved was on the line. I knew he was nervous and was concerned that nervous energy could affect his performance. To be fair seniors have folded under less pressure along with seasoned professionals. Chad just seems to take it in his stride...Chad “Undisputed Best Cadet in the World” just seems to take it all in his stride. Next up from Newark was Grant Duller NMA White Collar Boxing Heavyweight KO King was in dominant form with a points win. Although he had Phil Miller from MDMA Hull down several time during the bout, both boxers gave there all and deserved to see the final bell. But there could only be one winner Grant Duller with a clear unanimous points win to the Newark fighter. Newark’s Martial Arts Professional fighter Chris Deakin showed massive improvement in his bout against Nathan Kirk from Gladiators Gym Long Eaton. Chris looked to get hit with a massive shot in the round 2 which looked to shake up the Newark’s Kickboxer. But it actually spurred him on to an absolutely clinical performance which ended in Chris forcing a stoppage in round 6. Nathan receiving his 3 rd count in the round was stopped with the 3 knock down rule being in effect. Chris looked to back to his very best with some new techniques and spring in his step which will no doubt leave him top of the -70kg division.
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The Main event had been talked about for over a year as the 2 most exciting Cruiserweights in the country talked about what they were going to do to each other. Every pocket of the kickboxing community had turned out to watch this one and they weren’t to be disappointed. The fighters entered the ring and Andrew went straight up to Jamie and stood head to head eye ball to eye ball. The fight everyone had waited for was about to start. Referee Clive Tennant gave them their final instructions. The first 2 rounds were very cagey and neither fighter wanting to over commit. Then Jamie started to frustrate Andrew with his range and telescopic legs. Jamie’s movement and speed of combination frustrated Andrew for several rounds. Andrew tried to pin Jamie down but failed and looked like he was going to have to settle for a close points loss until the last round. Tate landed a perfect head kick with the shin and knocked Bates clean of his feet and out. Referee waived it all of as it was clear Jamie was not going to make the count. It was an explosive finish to a great fight that looked like it was going to be a clinical and technical points win for the previously unbeaten Jamie Bates.
Tate vs Bates
Chad celebrates his victory
Andrew left it late but to be fair without doubt said he would stop Jamie. I don’t think going into the last round anyone anticipated just what was going to happen. Now I guess Andrew will be looking to avenge an early loss in his pro career to Scott Gibson. Other fighters being mentioned are Shaun Ford and Ashley Collins. And after such a great fight up to the Knock Out Jamie Bates is definitely still in the mix. Jamie is such a young talent and will come back stronger from this loss I am sure.
The show event and venue has already been inundated with accolades about the standard of Kick Boxing on display. Dean Sugden in association with Newark Martial Arts will be doing it again March 19th 2011. Kelham Hall was officially declared the best Kickboxing venue in the UK and October 16th was officially the best line up to date. Anyone who is interested in Fighting on these great shows please contact dean via email dean@newarkmartialarts.co.uk
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Round 2
WAKO Pro show at Essex Story and pictures by Cris Janson-Piers Following on from the last show, “The Beginning”, another great show hosted by Tony and Kellie Willis of 5 Elements Martial Arts in Essex and their staff from Wickford took place on October the 2nd at the Selex Club in Basildon this time aptly named “Round 2”. Tony Willis has already earned himself the title of a “WAKO Pro Gold Star Promoter” in that his shows have continually equalled or exceeded the exacting standards of the pro arm of the World Governing body for kickboxing an award only a few promoters hold in the UK at the moment. This time Tony was also keen to bring MMA into the mix under WAKO’s new amateur system. This was to provide the opening of the show of what promised to be action packed and was to include the exciting format of WAKO K1 Rules along with Full Contact. To add to the mix Tony had secured 2 Amateur British title fights,
Emma Porter v Ros Wi l s o n
one being a long awaited rematch between John Lee and Audifax Kinga and another for hometown girl Helen Robinson-Carey. To finish the night was the return of Ryan “The Hammer” Hamer who has remained mainly inactive this year due to the lack of opponents and a couple who have veered off in other directions for some reason? With the stage set, ring girls, MC and the WAKO Pro full medical team in place the stage was set and the show was opened with 2 demo bouts introducing the new system in WAKO amateur MMA. 1st up was Jordan Waring from Falcon Fight Academy Dinnington and local
boy Neal Heather from 5 Elements Wickford, both showing a great display of stand up and ground work for the pleasure of the audience. The 2nd bout was Sean Helders from Falcon Fight Academy, Dinnington and Local fighter Elliot Tubbs, a shorter fight finishing in the first round with a triangle choke by Helders. Although demos, it had been agreed a tap out would stop the bout but with no winner announced as it was only a demonstration. This served to give essential experience to fighters, coaches and officials alike in the run up to many more proposed fights for the future. Truly a great display of WAKO MMA from all fighters.
Wayne Russell v Ashleigh Bray
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Emma Porter (NMA) v Ros Wilson (Bristol Lau Gar) A good start from Ros using good solid side kicks to the body and head. Emma threw good attacks but Ros had good movement which made Emma miss with her own attacks a lot of the time. The second round had much of the same with Emma trying new things but Ros read them well. In the 3rd Emma dealt with the side kicks better but was still missing out on her own scoring shots. This was a great one for the ladies Winner unanimous Ros Wilson.
Wesley Scott (5 Elements) v Dean Drewery (Combat & Exercise) Both fighters started off a guns blazing, Dean got an early warning for throwing and then the fight appeared to settle down, both fighters throwing good strong leg kicks with maximum effect. Wes worked well in the clinch scoring good knees to head and body. Excellent sharp kicking off Wesley. In the second round good solid punches and knees from Scott but a shoulder injury taken by Dean forced the fight to stop early in the second round. Winner by way of injury stops contest, Wesley Scott
Ibrahim Heidari (kicks gym) v Gareth Ford (Leicester PKA) After a rocky start to the day where Ibrahim had to return to the weigh station twice both fighters fought carefully and were very cautious in the opening round, good kicks from Ibrahim includ-
Audifax Kinga v John Lee
ing jump kicks but Gareth appeared more accurate with his boxing skills. In the 2nd Ibrahim continued with his jumping kicks which certainly made Gareth more cautious. The 3rd round saw Ibrahim catch Gareth with a good right hand which dropped him to the canvas. The referee counted Gareth but amazingly he recovered and the fight continued. Ibrahim saw red and went for Gareth and the pressure was too much, all Ford could do was try to defend himself, but Phil Dews with his experience had seen enough and he waved off the fight. Winner by RSC Ibrahim Heidari
Mark Allan (Bulldog Gym) v Alex Grigorjev (Musashi) With Alex Grigorjev coming out of one of the newer gyms set up by Latvian instructor Alexis Bolsunovs in Northampton and taking the fight at just one weeks notice people were not too sure how this fight was going to pan out? Mark Allan started the fight with a very powerful round kick to Alexâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s thigh which certainly got audiences attention and the fight going. Alex was on his toes and moved around the outside of the ring and was using his better boxing whilst countering with kicks well. Both fighters keeping out of the clinch. Round two, Mark moved into the clinch and worked his knees well and the low kicks. Alex working his movement and boxing well but in the 3rd round he started to tire and did well to
Ibrahim Heidari v Gareth Ford
keep fighting. Maybe if he had been give a little more notice he may have been a bit more prepared and it could have possibly have made a difference to the outcome of this fight? Winner by unanimous decision Mark Allan
Wayne Russell (5 Elements) v Ashleigh Bray (Combat & Exercise) A very energetic fight from start to finish. Both fighters throwing strong punches and kicks, but a little scrappy at times. A hard one for the judges to score. Both guys gave their all but maybe the way it was fought didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t actually bring the best out in both fighters? Winner by unanimous decision Wayne Russell
Audifax Kinga (Spring Health) v John Lee (Grimsby MAA) The rematch everybody had been waiting for.....the hard and powerful John Lee against the sharp and flamboyant Audifax Kinga.
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Helen Robinson- Carey v Emma Leam
will say one thing, Audi was a worthy winner but what a shame that John was stopped so near the final bell, his efforts didn’t warrant a stoppage as his efforts were immeasurable!! A very worthy WAKO title fight and a well deserved winner. Winner By TKO and still WAKO British champion Audifax Kinga
Helen Robinson- Carey (5 Elements) v Emma Leam (Grimsby MAA) The first punch from Emma caused Helen’s nose to bleed, great shots from both fighters with Helen being the more aggressive and accurate fighter.
Both fighters for the first 3 rounds showed excellent power, skill, movement, aggression and accurate boxing and kicking skills. John, more relaxed this time round saving energy and picking good shots over his usual steam train approach. In the 4th round Audi hit john with one of the best spinning hook kicks I had ever seen which no one including John saw coming as his full foot landed on John’s head, he wasn’t fazed buy it, telling Audi “Good shot mate!” and the fight continued but it was clear to see Audi had taken the fight up a level.
James Cornick V R y a n “The Hammer” Hamer
John took Spinning back kick after back kick body shot in the corner followed by a variation of crisp and accurate body shot punches which physically hurt him. It was only a matter of time until the referee stepped in and counted John who needed the recovery of 8 seconds. John fought from the heart, which he was wearing proudly on his sleeve but at 1 minute 54seconds of the 5th and final round and with just 6 seconds to go the referee stepped in as John had taken too much punishment and stopped the fight. John had fought like a warrior and accepted defeat in a very professional manner. He even placed the title belt around Audis waist, but I
Round 2 Helen’s nose still bleeding but she wasn’t flustered by it as she threw straight lefts with good power most of which were unanswered by Emma. When Emma got the confidence to use her own skill it was very effective and she forced Helen to Clinch to stay out of trouble. Helens nose still bleeding in the 3rd and 4th round with blood covering both fighters, Helen’s kicks hurting the side body of Emma with visual redness. Emma always pushing forward with some great techniques. There was an excellent 10 second exchange of boxing at the end of the 4th. Both fighters gave 100% from start to finish of the last round, both scoring with a lot of powerful boxing and never stopped until the final bell went. A fantastic and very close title fight. Winner and new WAKO British champion Helen Robinson-Carey
James Cornick (Bulldog Gym) V Holder Ryan “The Hammer” Hamer (Falcon Fight Academy) This fight started off with a typical “pros” start, both fighters cautious and trying to search out the faults and weaknesses of their opponent. Both fighters also showing early on the fantastic power from both hands and feet. Towards the end of the first round both Hamer and Cornick stepped it up, James pushing forward and Ryan moving and striking on the counter with very powerful boxing. The mid rounds saw James continuing to work, but Ryan just kept pushing forward using his ring craft well which forced James to miss with his attacks on
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several occasions. James looked strong throughout but couldn’t land that big shot on an ever moving Ryan. Ryan threw some of his big “Bombs” to the body of James and he absorbed them well even as the sound of the punches echoed through the building. The final round came and Ryan had done enough to take the win and James now needed the KO. Knowing this his corner ( John Orchard) had told him to tuck up and go for it and he really pushed for it but Ryan played careful, just as coached for the last and he hit and moved to stay out of trouble. A very technical fight with James Cornick coming away from the fight he took at a heavier weight with so much valuable experience. This man is certainly one to watch and one you may see as a champion very soon himself! Winner and still WAKO Pro British champion Ryan Hamer. The night had been yet again another success with great fight matching and it has already left Basildon in Essex yearning for more shows of the same calibre.
The event was overseen by a team of “A” class officials, all actually of International level, including the regular and very popular figure of Mr Phil Dews as Chief Referee. Only one fight was ruled under the majority decision as with most WAKO shows where the officials are known for being unbiased and very consistent. This being due to the constant and ongoing training of all WAKO’s officials at the national headquarters. No further ado, Tony Willis has already called and booked the next WAKO Pro show which will include MMA, K1 and Full Contact for Saturday 7th May 2011. If you as a promoter are interested in promoting any WAKO titles or fight nights please contact Cris Janson-Piers on 07973 748907 or contact him at crisjansonpiers@googlemail.com
Jordan Waring V Neal Heather
Sean Helders V Elliot Tubbs
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World Title
Sell-out at Coventry. 30/10/2010
Tom morris and Coventry freestyle presented a night of world championship kickboxing at the Jaguar sports & social club. In Coventry. The night was A complete sell-out Got to have been 750-800 attendees with many people ending up in the standing area. The bill was packed with 18 fights on the bill. The show was sanctioned with the W.R.S.A here are the results. Michael Patterson[ Stranraer kickboxing.] vs Ethan Piggott.[coventry freestyle.]
Jake Huebner[samurai kickboxing] vs Sean Morgan.[Coventry freestyle.]
Steve Crosby,[stranraer kickboxing] vs Gurdeep Sangera. Birdies allstyles.
Junior Light Contact Bout. This was an excellent performance from these 2 young fighters. Showing of good technique and skills.very close bout but the results just went to Patterson. 2 fighters who can only excel in the sport if they work hard.and keep up the good work.
Junior Light Contact Bout. Again both fighters showing excellent skills, huebner just showing a bit more.both lads showing great promise for the future,
Both fighters came out slugging in round 1 throwing everything but the kitchen sink in there.. sangera was throwing good head kicks in the exchange. Round 3 seen both fighters standing toe-to -toe and just threw hell for leather. Both fighters landed head shots.but the unaminous decision went to the blue corner. Gundeep sangera.
Result going to Huebner on a majority decision.
Luke Fowler.[Jado f/c/ Northampton.] vs Mark trey [Coventry freestyle.] An exciting bout of full contact. Fowler dominating the first round with very good techniques with both hands and feet. Round 2 not many kicks thrown in this round but trey came back with good solid punches.rnd 3. this last and final round saw lack of kicks again from the blue corner. Good hand skills but as the bout was kickboxing the decision went to Fowler on a unaminous decision.
Adam Bailey.B.D.M.A Lincoln. Vs Gavin Buckland,[Cov freestyle.] From the start of the fight seen Buckland throwing good solid shots. Lots of holding in this round., baileys way of trying to survive the round. I think.
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Rnd 2 having gained much confidence in the first round buckland came out like a raging bull, wild and furousious, Bailey just didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t seem to want to know. And retired. Decision went to buckland, a good first fight in the bag.
Craig Bailie,[Stranraer Kickboxing] vs Graham Russell. (Coventry freestyle.] Rnd 1 seen Bailie storming in swinging, punches and kicks, Russell was just weathering the storm and returning with good clean techniques, rnd 2 seen bailie start strong but Russell came back with good head kicks then uppercuts, then from nowhere threw an excellent ax kick to the head. Rnd 3. both fighters came out for the win Russell landing with some very good head shots with both feet and hands. Bailie parring well both fighters were good in there the judges decision went to Bailie.
Dean Ellis[Paras gym.] vs Aaron Kavanagh.[Coventry freestyle] This round started with Kavanagh coming out with a barrage of punches and a solid round house kick Ellis just soaked all this up.but kavanagh seemed to be to strong for ellis,rnd 2 was a slower round. But still Kavanagh was catching ellis with
much better punches. Rnd 3 Kavanagh was running out of steam on this round which seemed to spur ellis on who worked better this round all be it a bit scrappy at times, but left it to late in the fight, decision unaminous to Kavanagh,
Craig Allman.[samurai fitness gym] vs Tobias White.Coventry Freestyle.
Ashley Griffins[ B.D.M.A. Lincoln] vs Adam Hedge.[Coventry freestyle].
White Hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Had a good year so far yet he seemed composed and determind at the start of this fight he came out all cylinders firing and totally dominated the round landing with some body shots and Allman seemed to be on survival mode. Rnd 2 Allman definitely was giving this fight a go, but White still looked focused on the job in hand.rnd 3 Allman was saved by the bell in this round and received a standing 8 count. There seemed to be no stopping White tonight . rnd 4 seen Allman gets another count and in the end the corner threw the towel in. white was just on fire tonight and no one was taking his title on this night, good win for white perhaps needed to get his focus back on his game, fair play to Allman who took the fight on a weeks notice. After someone dropped out. Respect for that.
This bout was dedicated to the gary Johnson memorial bout. Whether this spurred Hedge on to do well he came out like a raging bull and proved to strong on this occasion for Griffins and the fight was stopped in favour of Hedge who won by KO in round 1.
Chris Ashforth,[U.K.C.B.A. Evesham] vs Michael Rimmer.[Mansfield k/b] These 2 fighters showed class out there both fighters showing good skill and ringcraft. Rimmer was very composed,where as Ashforth was throwing good stuff was more wanting to get the fight over. Rnd 2 saw a very even matched round with both fighters going tit for tat. Nothing between the fighters in this round. Rnd 3 again a good round for both fighters nothing between them other than Rimmer still being the more composed of them both. The judges obviously agreed as the decision came out a draw. Which seemed fair to both fighters,
This bout seen White Defend His British title against Allman who beat white at boxing the last time out.
Josh Reeves.[Rugby thai Kickboxing.] vs Luke Sanfilippo. [Coventry freestyle.] Sanfilippo came out strong in the first round but Reeves seemed the more composed fighter throwing some strong shots which seemed to rock Sanilippo
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was going to go. A fantastic bout like out of a scene from the rocky movies. The judges decision went to Celia.
James Smith [Stranraer kickboxing.] vs Jake Livingstone. Coventry freestyle.] Both fighters came out at right away you could see that Smith had some boxing skills looking good bobbing and weaving and landing some good quality shots. But Livingstone was trying to hold his own but Smith just seemed to dominate the whole fight. Livingstone ended up having a nose bleed. The fight was good talent from both these young fighters but on the night the decision was unaminous to Smith definitely a young lad with talent and one to watch for the future,
Mark Bruce.[Jado f/c/ Northampton.vs Danny bull.[ Mansfield.kickboxing.] .rnd 2 the pace slowed down more this round reeves throwing good straight punches looking to follow in the shot that done damage in the first round. But an even round for both fighters Rnd 3 both fighters showing signs of fatigue reeves throwing good punches but no kicks which seen Sanfilippo stealing this round with the kicks he landed the judges decision went to Josh Reeves.
Carl Swann.[B.D.MA.Lincoln.] vs Brian Layng.[Coventry freestyle] Layng came out at the start of the round and walked straight into a front kick but came back with very heavy punches but swann was throwing some excellent kicks.rnd 2 was more scappy which seen
loads of holding onto each other and even the odd rabbit punch thrown.rnd 3 both fighters came out determind to win the fight but forgot to use legs this round, the decision went with a majority decision to Brian Layng.
Kevin Celia.[Jado f/c Northampton.] vs Soloman Saghu. [Coventry freestyle] This was quite an even round with Celia starting of strong but Saghu taking the 2nd part of the round rnd 2 seen Saghu take more control of this round. Starting to believe that this fight was his. The crowd spurring him on, rnd 3 an exciting round this one both fighters landing good solid heavy punches, rocking each other the crowd were going crazy as you just couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t tell what way the fight
Round 1 was very even stevens both fighters throwing good kicks and punches Rnd 2 both fighters keeping very busy bruce just showing a bit more skill and maiking very good use of the ring.rnd 3 bull the more aggressor of fighters but forgot to make use of his legs this round but a good round for him never the less. The judges went for Bruce on this occasion but a good performance from both lads.
Eddie Smith[Paras Gym] vs Kyle Jefferies.[Birdies Allstyles.] These 2 heavyweight lads came out slugging Smith was throwing some hard punches but Jefferies was just soaking them up and plodded along, both fighters going tit for tat not the most exciting of fights however fair play to both these lads for having a go, the judges decision went to Smith
Craig Bailie,[Stranraer kickboxing.] vs Lee Duke.[Coventry freestyle.] This fight was the JJ memorial belt, unfortunately about 4 fights before the original fighter pulled out of the fight, so Craig Bailey very kindly offered to step in again to save the night. The Memorial belt was first presented to Lee Duke in memory of JJ and the light contact bout followed,the fight was evenly matched actually and both lads showed excellent skills and both done there clubs proud, a good performance and the decision reflected that with the result being a draw .
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Akim Chayem. Team wiet France, vs Ricky [the gladiator] glover. U.K.C.B.A. Evesham. W.R.S.A WORLD SUPERLIGHT WEIGHT TITLE FIGHT. This fight was for the vacant title and both fighters weighed in the night before just touching 61kgs. Both fighters looked extremely fit and ripped for this bout. The crowd were on there feet before the fight even started it was obvious from the start that glover is a very popular lad. The first round seen Akim come out with some of the fastest kicks I think I have ever seen in the ring. Using both legs. Glover trying to get shots off was using the ring well. It was apparent at this point this lad came here to upset and wanted an early knock out, glover finished this round with good head shots. Glover seemed to be saying something to his corner about his ear.in the break. Rnd 2 seen glover more composed and was moving well, watching Akims every move and just getting out of range, then from nowhere glover threw a big right
hand and send Chayem to the canvas, it was a while before he got up and you just knew he wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t going to come back from it, however at that the corner retired him anyhow, the crowd were in uproar. The new W.R.S.A. ricky glover was announced. A well deserved title holder. glover was sent of to hospital with a perforated ear drum he also damaged his wrist with the almighty punch, he is okay has been advised not to do any running or jumping in any way, and is having regular appointment to watch the progress. A bit upsetting for the camp as they wanted to push forward in the next 6 months with rickys fights, and to finish on the 8 man tournament that fighters magazine themselves are staging. At ??????????? Glover spoke to me after the fight and explained that he played the final countdown as his ring music as a tribute to the late chris sledgehammer ballard who was a stable mate in u.k.c.b.a. and was thrilled to have Stuart Awesome green at ringside who was also a stable mate but is definitely one of his idols.
A great night staged by tommy morris and the lads at Coventry freestyle, probarly the biggest show they have done to date, the next event will be held on march 26th. A big thank-you to all trainers.fighters,officials, sponsors and the W.R.S.A for all there help and continuing support.
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Welcome to...
WAKO WORLD ASSOCIATION OF KICKBOXING ORGANISATIONS President: Tom Hibbert M.B.E., F.S.M.A.
Founded in 1970 WAKO is the largest unified kickboxing organisation in the World with over 100 nations currently in membership. WAKO World H.Q. is based in Milan. ★ WAKO History ★ WAKO started its activity in Europe in 1976. The founder was Mr Georg Bruckner from Berlin, who promoted the first ever World Championships in semi and full contact karate (as it was called in those days) back in 1978 with 110 competitors representing 18 countries. WAKO immediately created the rules and regulations for the new fighting sports and acted, since the very beginning, as the authentic Kickboxing Federation of the world. In our Championships, only national teams are accepted. Each member country can present only 1 competitor in each weight class. The WAKO World Championships are NOT open competitions therefore each representative is the premier competitor in that category, from their country.
World Governing Body for Kickboxing World and European Amateur Championships Title Fights held continually both Amateur & Professional Regional Competitions are held throughout the year British Amateur Championships to choose British Teams Full-Contact, Light Continuous-Contact, Semi-Contact, Musical Forms Licence, Membership and Insurance available to all of U.K., Southern Ireland and Republic of Ireland Coaching courses, Referee Training, Seminars and Training Dan Gradings and WAKO certificates for all Members For upto the minute details of all forthcoming W.A.K.O events visit our website To see national ama/wako listings of over 13,000 instructors/clubs on the web, type: www.bt.com/thephonebook then in ‘business’ type: martial arts and town
Contact: WAKO, 66 Chaddesden Lane, Chaddesden, Derby, DE21 6LP Tel: 07973 507716 / 01332 663086 (after 6pm and weekends) or Fax: 01332 280286 Email: info@wakogb.co.uk WAK001/24
www.wakogb.co.uk
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WRS001/04
What Does the WRSA offer you? • Insurance for Fighters, Instructors and Promoters So you are fully protected
• Regular Tournaments around the country. Already 40 planned for 2009. See Website for details.
• Gradings with Specially designed certificates and badges. Each Belt Grade Certificate is Unique
• Courses for Judges and Referees. The WRSA encorages experienced fighters and coaches to take our judges and referees course so they understand what judges are looking for
• Regular Meetings Meetings so member can express their views of how the WRSA is being run. What they think is good and what they feel needs improving.
• Courses First aid courses run by qualified instructors. Training courses for ring craft, weapons course, etc.
• The WRSA does not interfere with how you run your club. It does not restrict you or your fighter as to which shows you fight on.
• The WRSA welcomes Kickboxing Clubs, Thai boxing clubs, Kung Fu Clubs, Traditional Karate clubs.
For Further Information contact the WRSA or Steve Humphrey, Cressdene, Evesham Road, Offenham, Evesham, Worcestershire, WR11 8SA Tel: 01386 48452 Mobile: 07881 784839 Email: ukcba@lineone.net
www.worldringsportsassociation.com
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CWC001/04