FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE – OPEN TO THE PUBLIC –
THIS WEDNESDAY, 2 P.M., BANKATLANTIC CENTER
FOR SATURDAY’S PRIMETIME
CBS ELITEXC FIGHT CARD
WHO/WHAT: The CBS ELITEXC SATURDAY NIGHT FIGHTS fighters and those appearing
on the undercard will participate in the FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE
before the big event, Saturday, Oct. 4, at the BankAtlantic Center at Sunrise, Fla.
The third installment of CBS’s primetime MMA event will be broadcast live
on Saturday, Oct. 4 from 9-11 p.m. ET/PT on the CBS Television Network.
The televised lineup for CBS ELITEXC SATURDAY NIGHT FIGHTS: Kimbo
Slice vs. Ken Shamrock (heavyweights); EliteXC 170-pound champion Jake
Shields vs. Paul Daley; Andrei Arlovski vs. Roy “Big Country" Nelson
(heavyweights); Gina Carano vs. Kelly Kobold (140 pounds); and Murilo
"Ninja" Rua vs. Benji Radach (middleweights)
Tickets start at $30 and are available at all Ticketmaster outlets, by phone
at (954) 523-3309 in Broward County, (305) 358-5885 in Dade County and
(561) 966-3309 in Palm Beach County, online at www.ticketmaster.com
and at the BankAtlantic Center box offices (954) 835-7825.
The BankAtlantic Center box offices’ normal business hours are 10 a.m.-
6 p.m., Monday through Friday. The box office will be open the day of the
event beginning at 10 a.m. The first live fight begins at 6 p.m. ET.
WHERE: Chairman's Club at BankAtlantic Center
1 Panther Parkway; Sunrise, Fla. 33323
WHEN: Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2008; 2 p.m. E
Monday, September 29, 2008
Masvidal vs Schultz
This was a really good fight from the Sengoku card. I've followed Schultz since he was in the IFL. His chin is a little iffy, so his fights are always a matter of can he get the guy down before they hit that little button that puts him to sleep. Masvidal has been impressive from what I've seen of him. He got dropped by Rodrigo Damm, which was a shock to me.... all I had ever seen of Damm was him making short work of Black Mamba in Bodog. I figured Masivdal would be able to stay up right long enough to pop Ryan and that is what happened.
Shame they have to fight half a world away......
Wow.....
The Mrs. Happen on Fedor Video.. it is the stuff of legend.. wow, that thing has over 27k hits on youtube.... I have to take a little bit of credit. I was writing for Bloodyelbow at the time and ran across that thing when it had about 600 hits or so.... i thought this vid was the most adorable thing ever, a Juno with MMA knowledge.... so i put up a link to it for shits and giggles. It got some hits then...... then sherdog got ahold of it.... it blew up.... recently Ariel Helwani at MMARated.com got ahold of it and posts her stuff on a regular basis......
The hair just keeps getting worse, though, lol.....
Carano On Craig Ferguson
Gina Carano, will be a guest on "The Late, Late Show with Craig Ferguson" on CBS, Monday night (September 29th). The show airs at 12:35am PST.
Other scheduled guests are Melina Kanakaredes (of "CSI:NY") and Marg Helgenberger (from "CSI").
Gina will be promoting her upcoming EliteXC fight this Saturday, October 4th on CBS. Other fights on that card include Andrei Arlovski vs Roy Nelson and the much-anticipated Kimbo Slice vs Ken Shamrock.
Other scheduled guests are Melina Kanakaredes (of "CSI:NY") and Marg Helgenberger (from "CSI").
Gina will be promoting her upcoming EliteXC fight this Saturday, October 4th on CBS. Other fights on that card include Andrei Arlovski vs Roy Nelson and the much-anticipated Kimbo Slice vs Ken Shamrock.
Their Words, Not Mine
“We've created a fast-paced, edgy show,” he said, adding that he and White have a good insight into the young adult male demographic because “we are the two most immature 39-year-olds on the planet.”
--Lorenzo Fertitta, to Multi-Channel News
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Tales From The UnderGround: Renzo
From the folks at Almeida BJJ:
It was late this Friday afternoon when Ricardo Almeida picked up the phone and heard the familiar, unique, and upbeat of Renzo Gracie shout:
"Cachorrao, can you be at the Manhattan Academy by 6:00 PM?"
While 2 hours to get from Hamilton to Manhattan would normally be difficult, the thought about battling rush-hour traffic on the New Jersey Turnpike at 4:00 PM on a Friday afternoon wouldn't keep him from being there for his mentor and best friend.
"Mestre, I'll be there as fast as I can, but may I ask why I need to be there by 6?"
Firing back with his usual wit, Renzo Gracie shouted, "No, you may not! Just make your way there, I'll meet you in a little bit, my brother! You'll like the surprise!"
Looking at his always present and loyal student Tom DeBlass (who happened to have spent Friday afternoon at his house planning his training schedule with his teacher), Ricardo grinned: "Mestre Renzo is the only man alive that can get me out of my house on a Friday night, and on such short notice . . . are you coming?" Always eager to see what surprises Renzo might have up his sleeve, Tom laughed and replied, "I'm not missing out on that, I can't wait! This should be good!"
As Ricardo, his wife and Tom drove closer to Manhattan, a familiar sight greeted them: a long line of cars stretching from the Holland Tunnel, extending for miles. Worried that he would leave Renzo waiting for him at the Academy, Ricardo called to let him know he was running late. Instead, Renzo responded with, "don't worry my brother, traffic will be lighter after that bridge – I'm right behind you!" It turns out that Mestre Renzo was actually running late as well. Even with 15 years of life in the United States, Renzo still sets his watch to "brazilian time" – but somehow, he always makes it in the end!
Just as he predicted, traffic lightened up, and as he approached the Holland Tunnel's entrance, Prof. Almeida drove behind a very nice car, and after discussing some of the car's features with Coach Tom, he realized that it must be a real nice car – the driver was Renzo! But as he crossed into the Big Apple, only one thought remained in his mind: "What was Renzo's surprise?"
After finally arriving at the Academy, and greeting long time friends and Renzo Gracie's students, he made his way to his favorite corner on the mats, hoping to take advantage of the opportunity to get some great training in under Renzo's watchful eye. As the class ends, Renzo in that same great mood he's always in, steps on the mats and starts to speak. The packed house knows that something special is about to happen, and begin to gather on the mats.
Renzo gets everyone's attention: "Guys, I'd like to call over one of the greatest Black Belts I have ever had the pleasure of teaching and promoting. Cachorrao, get over here!" Renzo continues: " We have been through so much together; I have cornered every one of his fights and he amazed me each time, over and over. It was amazing to watch how his skills were constantly improving, and what a strong mind he has. His fights where always a huge test, and he made me so proud each time."
After telling some heart-warming stories of when Prof. Almeida first lived with Mestre Renzo and his family upon first arriving in the U.S. in 1997, Renzo continues: "A long time ago we were in Japan for a huge event (Pride FC) and one of the fighters got hurt. They needed a last minute replacement and Ricardo said he would like to give it a try. I asked him 'are you sure you want to do this?' Ricardo told me, 'if you tell me I'm ready, I'm all over it.'"
His voice swelling with pride, Renzo continued: "I knew he could do it, so he had my blessing. Guys, it was Ricardo's 1st professional fight and the opponent was a very tough Japanese fighter, who I had fought around that time and it went to a draw. His name is Akira Shoji." The students listen on intently -- after all, who wouldn't want to gather around Renzo Gracie and hear one of his tales? And as Renzo announced, "Ricardo went out there on a couple of days notice and beat the hell out of that guy!" applause and cheers washed over the Academy.
"Another great memory I have also happened in Japan in the Pancrase event. Ricardo fought a real tough guy for the championship, a guy named Nathan Marquardt. Ricardo submitted him with our signature submission, the guillotine with the arm in. I clearly remember looking at him from his corner and screaming 'Cachorrao, go for it! Just go!'. He looked at me with that look 'do you really think I should' and I screamed even louder 'just do it, go!' He went for it and the rest is history."
Lost in the good memories, Renzo finally gets to his surprise: "Well guys, I'm sure most of you have seen the Pancrase Belt, but the fighters don't get to keep the belt! It's worth a LOT of money because it's made of pure platinum and there's a huge diamond right in the center. In fact, so many security guards were around us while Ricardo had the championship belt, I was almost suffocating! After the fight, we were walking around taking pictures with fans and having a blast, but in my mind, I was already looking for an exit sign or something so we could take off with that belt!"
Needless to say, laughs took over the large room.
As he paced the hallowed blue mats, Renzo wondered aloud, "Guys, how can they give you something you've worked so hard to get and take it away from you that same night? I knew Ricardo wasn't thrilled about that, even though he didn't mention anything. So after much dedication to this project, I was able to get my student a surprise."
With that, Renzo walked into the office at the rear of the mats, and returned with a large white box, announcing, "I am now proudly giving my student Ricardo Almeida in the name of all of us a perfect replica of his King of Pancrase Belt. Although the huge diamond is not real, this is the closest it gets to the real thing."
In fact, the belt was better than the real thing – to receive the belt directly from Mestre Renzo was a perfect way to receive the belt, and the look on Ricardo's face was priceless as his teacher put that belt around his waist. The attendees happily started applauding, cheering, hitting the mats with their hands, and an overwhelming noise washed over all in the room.
Always with some words of wisdom and encouragement, Renzo glanced at Ricardo as he was leaving the Academy, grabs his head and proudly tells him: "That's my boy... don't you think I didn't notice half of your mouthpiece hanging out of your pocket when you walked in. You always come prepared for any situation."
In fact, this was a lesson Ricardo Almeida had learned from Renzo – who knew how to fulfill an unspoken wish of one of his many students, even five years later! Thank you, Mestre Renzo. There's no way to repay all of your contributions to the sport and to people's lives. You are a true legend, a flawless mentor and a true gentleman.
It was late this Friday afternoon when Ricardo Almeida picked up the phone and heard the familiar, unique, and upbeat of Renzo Gracie shout:
"Cachorrao, can you be at the Manhattan Academy by 6:00 PM?"
While 2 hours to get from Hamilton to Manhattan would normally be difficult, the thought about battling rush-hour traffic on the New Jersey Turnpike at 4:00 PM on a Friday afternoon wouldn't keep him from being there for his mentor and best friend.
"Mestre, I'll be there as fast as I can, but may I ask why I need to be there by 6?"
Firing back with his usual wit, Renzo Gracie shouted, "No, you may not! Just make your way there, I'll meet you in a little bit, my brother! You'll like the surprise!"
Looking at his always present and loyal student Tom DeBlass (who happened to have spent Friday afternoon at his house planning his training schedule with his teacher), Ricardo grinned: "Mestre Renzo is the only man alive that can get me out of my house on a Friday night, and on such short notice . . . are you coming?" Always eager to see what surprises Renzo might have up his sleeve, Tom laughed and replied, "I'm not missing out on that, I can't wait! This should be good!"
As Ricardo, his wife and Tom drove closer to Manhattan, a familiar sight greeted them: a long line of cars stretching from the Holland Tunnel, extending for miles. Worried that he would leave Renzo waiting for him at the Academy, Ricardo called to let him know he was running late. Instead, Renzo responded with, "don't worry my brother, traffic will be lighter after that bridge – I'm right behind you!" It turns out that Mestre Renzo was actually running late as well. Even with 15 years of life in the United States, Renzo still sets his watch to "brazilian time" – but somehow, he always makes it in the end!
Just as he predicted, traffic lightened up, and as he approached the Holland Tunnel's entrance, Prof. Almeida drove behind a very nice car, and after discussing some of the car's features with Coach Tom, he realized that it must be a real nice car – the driver was Renzo! But as he crossed into the Big Apple, only one thought remained in his mind: "What was Renzo's surprise?"
After finally arriving at the Academy, and greeting long time friends and Renzo Gracie's students, he made his way to his favorite corner on the mats, hoping to take advantage of the opportunity to get some great training in under Renzo's watchful eye. As the class ends, Renzo in that same great mood he's always in, steps on the mats and starts to speak. The packed house knows that something special is about to happen, and begin to gather on the mats.
Renzo gets everyone's attention: "Guys, I'd like to call over one of the greatest Black Belts I have ever had the pleasure of teaching and promoting. Cachorrao, get over here!" Renzo continues: " We have been through so much together; I have cornered every one of his fights and he amazed me each time, over and over. It was amazing to watch how his skills were constantly improving, and what a strong mind he has. His fights where always a huge test, and he made me so proud each time."
After telling some heart-warming stories of when Prof. Almeida first lived with Mestre Renzo and his family upon first arriving in the U.S. in 1997, Renzo continues: "A long time ago we were in Japan for a huge event (Pride FC) and one of the fighters got hurt. They needed a last minute replacement and Ricardo said he would like to give it a try. I asked him 'are you sure you want to do this?' Ricardo told me, 'if you tell me I'm ready, I'm all over it.'"
His voice swelling with pride, Renzo continued: "I knew he could do it, so he had my blessing. Guys, it was Ricardo's 1st professional fight and the opponent was a very tough Japanese fighter, who I had fought around that time and it went to a draw. His name is Akira Shoji." The students listen on intently -- after all, who wouldn't want to gather around Renzo Gracie and hear one of his tales? And as Renzo announced, "Ricardo went out there on a couple of days notice and beat the hell out of that guy!" applause and cheers washed over the Academy.
"Another great memory I have also happened in Japan in the Pancrase event. Ricardo fought a real tough guy for the championship, a guy named Nathan Marquardt. Ricardo submitted him with our signature submission, the guillotine with the arm in. I clearly remember looking at him from his corner and screaming 'Cachorrao, go for it! Just go!'. He looked at me with that look 'do you really think I should' and I screamed even louder 'just do it, go!' He went for it and the rest is history."
Lost in the good memories, Renzo finally gets to his surprise: "Well guys, I'm sure most of you have seen the Pancrase Belt, but the fighters don't get to keep the belt! It's worth a LOT of money because it's made of pure platinum and there's a huge diamond right in the center. In fact, so many security guards were around us while Ricardo had the championship belt, I was almost suffocating! After the fight, we were walking around taking pictures with fans and having a blast, but in my mind, I was already looking for an exit sign or something so we could take off with that belt!"
Needless to say, laughs took over the large room.
As he paced the hallowed blue mats, Renzo wondered aloud, "Guys, how can they give you something you've worked so hard to get and take it away from you that same night? I knew Ricardo wasn't thrilled about that, even though he didn't mention anything. So after much dedication to this project, I was able to get my student a surprise."
With that, Renzo walked into the office at the rear of the mats, and returned with a large white box, announcing, "I am now proudly giving my student Ricardo Almeida in the name of all of us a perfect replica of his King of Pancrase Belt. Although the huge diamond is not real, this is the closest it gets to the real thing."
In fact, the belt was better than the real thing – to receive the belt directly from Mestre Renzo was a perfect way to receive the belt, and the look on Ricardo's face was priceless as his teacher put that belt around his waist. The attendees happily started applauding, cheering, hitting the mats with their hands, and an overwhelming noise washed over all in the room.
Always with some words of wisdom and encouragement, Renzo glanced at Ricardo as he was leaving the Academy, grabs his head and proudly tells him: "That's my boy... don't you think I didn't notice half of your mouthpiece hanging out of your pocket when you walked in. You always come prepared for any situation."
In fact, this was a lesson Ricardo Almeida had learned from Renzo – who knew how to fulfill an unspoken wish of one of his many students, even five years later! Thank you, Mestre Renzo. There's no way to repay all of your contributions to the sport and to people's lives. You are a true legend, a flawless mentor and a true gentleman.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
American Top Teamer Steps Up To Face “The Silencer”
SAN JOSE, Calif. —American Top Team member and two-time New York State Metropolitan Boxing Champion, Carlos Zevallos (0-0), will fill the recent void left by Pat Barry, and make his professional mixed martial arts (MMA) debut against Andre “The Silencer” Walker (2-3), in a light heavyweight (205 lb. limit) contest during Strikeforce “Payback” at Broomfield, Colorado’s Broomfield Event Center on Friday, October 3rd.
Like his opponent, Zevallos brings to the cage a rich history in the striking arts, winning back-to-back New York State Metropolitan Championships in 2005 and 2006. A student of Muay Thai since the age of 16, the Queens, New York native, now 29, captured the World Kickboxing Association (WKA) National Heavyweight Muay Thai Championship in 2004.
“I’ve been waiting for this moment for a long time,” said Zevallos of his upcoming MMA debut. “I’m gonna make it very far (in MMA) because I pay a lot of attention to detail. I really dissect the sport and study it to the fullest – every aspect of it. “Not only do I learn it very fast, but I get really good at it. It’s a constant never ending search for perfection that drives me to MMA.”
“My striking is a lot more advanced than the average MMA guy,” the fighter stressed. “ I take it for what it is and thank God that I have that edge over them but, at the same time, anyone can lose at any given moment so you always have to find whatever weaknesses you have and work on that.”
Zevallos’ experience in kickboxing and amateur boxing competition, which also includes three runs at the annual Golden Gloves Championships, has helped prepare him to fight in pressure situations like the one in Broomfield that pits him against a veteran of five MMA bouts.
“To this day, that holds a big part of my heart,” explained Zevallos of his efforts in the boxing ring. “I just remember things like fighting this guy in one of the tournaments and getting caught with a real nasty left hook. I felt my body starting to collapse while I was on the ropes. Right before I started going down, I remembered that my cousin and one of my best friends were in the audience and all I started feeling was their emotions in the back of my head and that woke me up. I came back and won the fight.”
Last year, Zevallos packed up his belongings and relocated to South Florida, the home of fearsome fight squad, American Top Team, to pursue a new challenge in the world’s fastest growing sport. He has since been taken under the wing of famed ATT head instructor and Carlson Gracie black belt, Ricardo Liborio.
“I had heard about (American Top Team) and seen them on TV a lot. I liked the fact that they were winning consistently and I wanted to train where the best people were training.”
Zevallos’ opponent, Walker, is a Denver native and former student of Sabaki Karate under martial arts legend, Clarence Thatch. In the late ‘90s, Walker utilized his striking skills to go on an unbeaten, 5-0 run in “Toughman” competition.
“The Sabaki helps my stand-up (skills) in MMA a lot,” explained Walker. “I’m able to swing my opponent and knock him off balance. It’s a matter of using his weight against him.”
Walker made his greatest impression in the fight world to date on August 11, 2001 when he stopped Carter Williams in the second round of their K-1 matchup at Las Vegas’ Bellagio Hotel and Casino. Williams went on to capture the K-1 North America tournament championship two years later.
Tickets for Strikeforce “Payback,” priced from $30, are on sale at Ticketmaster (303-830-TIXS) and Ticketmaster.com
In the main event, knockout artist and Denver native, Duane “Bang” Ludwig (16-8), will attempt to avenge a previous knockout at the hands of “The Ultimate Fighter” season three veteran, Sam “The Squeeze” Morgan (19-10).
Superstar Frank “Twinkle Toes” Trigg (17-6) will take on Hawaiian submission expert, Falaniko “Niko” Vitale (26-8), in a featured middleweight (185 lb. limit) contest.
Also back in action at Strikeforce “Payback” will be “The New York Badass” Phil Baroni (12-10) and “The Ultimate Fighter” season four veteran, “The Secret Weapon” Pete Spratt (18-14), who will battle Donnie Liles (11-5) in a welterweight (170 lb. limit) showdown.
Broomfield Event Center doors will open for Strikeforce “Payback” at 5:30 PM MST and the preliminary card will begin at 6:30 PM MST. The main card will commence at 8 PM MST.
Like his opponent, Zevallos brings to the cage a rich history in the striking arts, winning back-to-back New York State Metropolitan Championships in 2005 and 2006. A student of Muay Thai since the age of 16, the Queens, New York native, now 29, captured the World Kickboxing Association (WKA) National Heavyweight Muay Thai Championship in 2004.
“I’ve been waiting for this moment for a long time,” said Zevallos of his upcoming MMA debut. “I’m gonna make it very far (in MMA) because I pay a lot of attention to detail. I really dissect the sport and study it to the fullest – every aspect of it. “Not only do I learn it very fast, but I get really good at it. It’s a constant never ending search for perfection that drives me to MMA.”
“My striking is a lot more advanced than the average MMA guy,” the fighter stressed. “ I take it for what it is and thank God that I have that edge over them but, at the same time, anyone can lose at any given moment so you always have to find whatever weaknesses you have and work on that.”
Zevallos’ experience in kickboxing and amateur boxing competition, which also includes three runs at the annual Golden Gloves Championships, has helped prepare him to fight in pressure situations like the one in Broomfield that pits him against a veteran of five MMA bouts.
“To this day, that holds a big part of my heart,” explained Zevallos of his efforts in the boxing ring. “I just remember things like fighting this guy in one of the tournaments and getting caught with a real nasty left hook. I felt my body starting to collapse while I was on the ropes. Right before I started going down, I remembered that my cousin and one of my best friends were in the audience and all I started feeling was their emotions in the back of my head and that woke me up. I came back and won the fight.”
Last year, Zevallos packed up his belongings and relocated to South Florida, the home of fearsome fight squad, American Top Team, to pursue a new challenge in the world’s fastest growing sport. He has since been taken under the wing of famed ATT head instructor and Carlson Gracie black belt, Ricardo Liborio.
“I had heard about (American Top Team) and seen them on TV a lot. I liked the fact that they were winning consistently and I wanted to train where the best people were training.”
Zevallos’ opponent, Walker, is a Denver native and former student of Sabaki Karate under martial arts legend, Clarence Thatch. In the late ‘90s, Walker utilized his striking skills to go on an unbeaten, 5-0 run in “Toughman” competition.
“The Sabaki helps my stand-up (skills) in MMA a lot,” explained Walker. “I’m able to swing my opponent and knock him off balance. It’s a matter of using his weight against him.”
Walker made his greatest impression in the fight world to date on August 11, 2001 when he stopped Carter Williams in the second round of their K-1 matchup at Las Vegas’ Bellagio Hotel and Casino. Williams went on to capture the K-1 North America tournament championship two years later.
Tickets for Strikeforce “Payback,” priced from $30, are on sale at Ticketmaster (303-830-TIXS) and Ticketmaster.com
In the main event, knockout artist and Denver native, Duane “Bang” Ludwig (16-8), will attempt to avenge a previous knockout at the hands of “The Ultimate Fighter” season three veteran, Sam “The Squeeze” Morgan (19-10).
Superstar Frank “Twinkle Toes” Trigg (17-6) will take on Hawaiian submission expert, Falaniko “Niko” Vitale (26-8), in a featured middleweight (185 lb. limit) contest.
Also back in action at Strikeforce “Payback” will be “The New York Badass” Phil Baroni (12-10) and “The Ultimate Fighter” season four veteran, “The Secret Weapon” Pete Spratt (18-14), who will battle Donnie Liles (11-5) in a welterweight (170 lb. limit) showdown.
Broomfield Event Center doors will open for Strikeforce “Payback” at 5:30 PM MST and the preliminary card will begin at 6:30 PM MST. The main card will commence at 8 PM MST.
WILSON REIS TAKES UNANIMOUS DECISION
WILSON REIS TAKES UNANIMOUS DECISION OVER ABEL CULLUM
TO CAPTURE FIRST-EVER ELITEXC BANTAMWEIGHT TITLE
IN MAIN EVENT ON SHOXC: ELITE CHALLENGER SERIES _____________________________________________________________________________________
Friday, Sept. 26, at 11 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME,
Chumash Casino Resort, Santa Ynez, California
SANTA YNEZ, Calif. (Sept. 27, 2008) – In an excellent, competitive matchup between skilled, determined, well-conditioned fighters, unbeaten Brazilian Wilson Reis (6-0) of Philadelphia registered a close, unanimous five-round decision over Abel Cullum (11-2) of Tucumcari, N.M., to capture the first-ever EliteXC bantamweight title Friday in the main event on ShoXC: Elite Challenger Series.
Los Angeles-based ProElite, Inc.’s live fight division, EliteXC presented the crowd-pleasing event from the Chumash Casino Resort. It aired on SHOWTIME at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).
In other SHOWTIME fights, Shane Del Rosario (5-0) of Irvine, Calif., scored a second-round TKO (strikes) over Carl Seumanutafa (4-1) of San Francisco, Calif.; in perhaps the fight of the night, David “Tarzan” Douglas (6-1) of Antioch, Calif., registered an upset third-round TKO (strikes) over Malaipet (3-3) of Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., Jaime Jara (20-5) of North Highlands, Calif., earned a hard-fought split decision over previously undefeated Giva Santana (12-1) of Laguna Niguel, Calif., and Eric “Bad” Apple (10-1) of Orange County, Calif., submitted (rear naked choke) Matt Makowski (3-1) of Philadelphia in the second round.
Non-televised bouts: Scott Lighty (4-0) of San Luis Obispo, Calif., registered a 4:15, first-round TKO (strikes) over Jamiah Williamson (3-1) of Los Angeles; Damian Douglas (3-1) of Antioch scored a 0:46, first-round submission over Joe Schilling (1-3) of Los Angeles; Steve Gable (3-0) of San Diego, Calif., won a split decision (29-28 twice and 28-29) over Josh McDonald (3-3) of San Francisco; Luke Riddering (2-0) of San Luis Obispo, Calif., stopped John Corstophine (1-2) of North Highlands, Calif., on strikes at 3:44 of the first; and Fernando Bettega (3-2) of Los Angeles submitted Mono Otero (3-3) of Albuquerque, N.M., with a rear naked choke a 2:27 of the opening round.
The main event fighters – both Abel and Wilson – displayed high-level grappling skills, but Reis (pronounced “H-ace’’) did enough to ground out a victory by the scores of 49-46 twice and 48-47.
“This was my dream, to win the 140-pound world title,’’ said southpaw Reis, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt stud who improved to 4-0 since coming to EliteXC in January 2008. “This is all very exciting.’’
Cullum, who had a 10-fight winning streak snapped, appeared physically smaller and was stepping up in weight. But he gave a fantastic account of himself, landed the vast majority of the telling punches and seemed to win over the crowd in attendance.
“No one wants to lose, but he was a strong guy and tough for me to keep off,’’ said Cullum, the King of the Cage 135-pound titleholder. “I wanted to be the aggressor, but I wound up on the ground too much. I thought the referee could have stood us up a couple of times, but it didn’t happen.’’
Del Rosario mostly dominated before the fight was stopped at 1:07 of the second.
“I didn’t feel that good before the fight but once I got into the cage I was fine,’’ said Del Rosario, who was making his third consecutive appearance on ShoXC. “I thought I had him once, and he came sort of close to getting me, but overall I am very happy.’’
For sheer excitement, Douglas-Malaipet was as good as it gets. A fight that featured numerous changes in momentum exceeded all expectations until it was stopped at 2:51 or the third.
“I stuck to my game plan, never quit and came out on top,’’ Douglas said. “I have never been in a fight this hard and I am exhausted and know I will be hurting tomorrow. But getting the victory makes it all worthwhile.’’
Malaipet, a Lumpinee champ in Thailand, lost his second consecutive start. The world-class kickboxer is an extremely dangerous striker, but he lacks a ground game and it cost him again.
“I thought I would do better on the ground, but overall I am happy,’’ said Malaipet, who was cut badly below his eye. “You haven’t seen the last of me and I thank all my fans for their support.’’
In an exceptional effort, Jara outpointed Santana by the scores of 29-28 twice and 28-29. The victory was the fourth in a row for Jara, who is 15-1 with one No Contest since June 2004.
“This was my hardest fight and he is definitely the toughest fighter I have faced,’’ Jara said. “I knew it was tight, but I felt I had done enough to win.
Santana is known as “The Arm Collector.” Ten of the unbeaten submission whiz’s 11 victories have come by armbar. But he did not come close to submitting Jara, who has not tapped out since November 2003.
“I am not going to complain about the decision but I felt I’d done enough to win and landed all the harder punches, especially in the third round.’’
Apple, who was making his ShoXC debut and first start since March 2007, forced the previously unbeaten Makowski to tape out at 2:04 of the second.
“I thought I was going to break his arm,’’ Apple said. “I came in thinking I was a little better than he was in all aspects of the game, and I was right. This was the perfect fight to knock the ring rust off.’’
----------------
Now playing: Nicole Atkins - Together We're Both Alone
via FoxyTunes
TO CAPTURE FIRST-EVER ELITEXC BANTAMWEIGHT TITLE
IN MAIN EVENT ON SHOXC: ELITE CHALLENGER SERIES _____________________________________________________________________________________
Friday, Sept. 26, at 11 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME,
Chumash Casino Resort, Santa Ynez, California
SANTA YNEZ, Calif. (Sept. 27, 2008) – In an excellent, competitive matchup between skilled, determined, well-conditioned fighters, unbeaten Brazilian Wilson Reis (6-0) of Philadelphia registered a close, unanimous five-round decision over Abel Cullum (11-2) of Tucumcari, N.M., to capture the first-ever EliteXC bantamweight title Friday in the main event on ShoXC: Elite Challenger Series.
Los Angeles-based ProElite, Inc.’s live fight division, EliteXC presented the crowd-pleasing event from the Chumash Casino Resort. It aired on SHOWTIME at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).
In other SHOWTIME fights, Shane Del Rosario (5-0) of Irvine, Calif., scored a second-round TKO (strikes) over Carl Seumanutafa (4-1) of San Francisco, Calif.; in perhaps the fight of the night, David “Tarzan” Douglas (6-1) of Antioch, Calif., registered an upset third-round TKO (strikes) over Malaipet (3-3) of Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., Jaime Jara (20-5) of North Highlands, Calif., earned a hard-fought split decision over previously undefeated Giva Santana (12-1) of Laguna Niguel, Calif., and Eric “Bad” Apple (10-1) of Orange County, Calif., submitted (rear naked choke) Matt Makowski (3-1) of Philadelphia in the second round.
Non-televised bouts: Scott Lighty (4-0) of San Luis Obispo, Calif., registered a 4:15, first-round TKO (strikes) over Jamiah Williamson (3-1) of Los Angeles; Damian Douglas (3-1) of Antioch scored a 0:46, first-round submission over Joe Schilling (1-3) of Los Angeles; Steve Gable (3-0) of San Diego, Calif., won a split decision (29-28 twice and 28-29) over Josh McDonald (3-3) of San Francisco; Luke Riddering (2-0) of San Luis Obispo, Calif., stopped John Corstophine (1-2) of North Highlands, Calif., on strikes at 3:44 of the first; and Fernando Bettega (3-2) of Los Angeles submitted Mono Otero (3-3) of Albuquerque, N.M., with a rear naked choke a 2:27 of the opening round.
The main event fighters – both Abel and Wilson – displayed high-level grappling skills, but Reis (pronounced “H-ace’’) did enough to ground out a victory by the scores of 49-46 twice and 48-47.
“This was my dream, to win the 140-pound world title,’’ said southpaw Reis, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt stud who improved to 4-0 since coming to EliteXC in January 2008. “This is all very exciting.’’
Cullum, who had a 10-fight winning streak snapped, appeared physically smaller and was stepping up in weight. But he gave a fantastic account of himself, landed the vast majority of the telling punches and seemed to win over the crowd in attendance.
“No one wants to lose, but he was a strong guy and tough for me to keep off,’’ said Cullum, the King of the Cage 135-pound titleholder. “I wanted to be the aggressor, but I wound up on the ground too much. I thought the referee could have stood us up a couple of times, but it didn’t happen.’’
Del Rosario mostly dominated before the fight was stopped at 1:07 of the second.
“I didn’t feel that good before the fight but once I got into the cage I was fine,’’ said Del Rosario, who was making his third consecutive appearance on ShoXC. “I thought I had him once, and he came sort of close to getting me, but overall I am very happy.’’
For sheer excitement, Douglas-Malaipet was as good as it gets. A fight that featured numerous changes in momentum exceeded all expectations until it was stopped at 2:51 or the third.
“I stuck to my game plan, never quit and came out on top,’’ Douglas said. “I have never been in a fight this hard and I am exhausted and know I will be hurting tomorrow. But getting the victory makes it all worthwhile.’’
Malaipet, a Lumpinee champ in Thailand, lost his second consecutive start. The world-class kickboxer is an extremely dangerous striker, but he lacks a ground game and it cost him again.
“I thought I would do better on the ground, but overall I am happy,’’ said Malaipet, who was cut badly below his eye. “You haven’t seen the last of me and I thank all my fans for their support.’’
In an exceptional effort, Jara outpointed Santana by the scores of 29-28 twice and 28-29. The victory was the fourth in a row for Jara, who is 15-1 with one No Contest since June 2004.
“This was my hardest fight and he is definitely the toughest fighter I have faced,’’ Jara said. “I knew it was tight, but I felt I had done enough to win.
Santana is known as “The Arm Collector.” Ten of the unbeaten submission whiz’s 11 victories have come by armbar. But he did not come close to submitting Jara, who has not tapped out since November 2003.
“I am not going to complain about the decision but I felt I’d done enough to win and landed all the harder punches, especially in the third round.’’
Apple, who was making his ShoXC debut and first start since March 2007, forced the previously unbeaten Makowski to tape out at 2:04 of the second.
“I thought I was going to break his arm,’’ Apple said. “I came in thinking I was a little better than he was in all aspects of the game, and I was right. This was the perfect fight to knock the ring rust off.’’
----------------
Now playing: Nicole Atkins - Together We're Both Alone
via FoxyTunes
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Vitale Fight “Just Another Day” For Trigg
SAN JOSE, Calif. —Off the heels of his latest conquest in Japan, mixed martial arts (MMA) superstar Frank Trigg (17-6) doesn’t seem too concerned about his next challenge, submission expert, Falaniko “Niko” Vitale (26-8). In fact, Trigg’s seemingly nonchalant attitude toward the 185-pound limit matchup with Hawaii’s top talent could be mistaken for brash overconfidence.
“To me, it’s just another day for me,” said Trigg, a 2000 Olympic wrestling trials finalist and former UFC welterweight championship challenger who will battle Vitale in a featured Strikeforce “Payback” MMA contest at Broomfield, Colorado’s Broomfield Event Center on Friday, October 3rd. “All of my days start to run together so I don’t have any thoughts about a particular fighter.”
When the subject of conversation turns to the state of his career, though, Trigg’s tone suddenly becomes more focused and intense. “I’ve only got a couple fights left so every fight is important to me.”
At 38, Trigg may be nearing the end of his splendid run in professional MMA. It is in the last two years, however, which he has also turned in some of his most impressive performances, to date, including back-to-back wins over Jason “Mayhem” Miller and Kazo “The Grabaka Hitman” Misaki.
Trigg attributes these recent, good fortunes to his adoption of all-time great, Randy “The Natural” Couture, as a mentor. Training at the Xtreme Couture academy in Las Vegas, Nevada has provided him with a new outlook towards competition.
“One of my biggest problems has been that I’ve been my own worst enemy,” admitted Trigg. “I let that get in the way of my fights. One thing about Xtreme Couture, especially hanging out with Randy, is he (emphasizes) doing the best you can, so it really takes the stress off of you. For him, it’s always about being fun. So, it’s kind of interesting to see how he trains and I try to mimic the style.”
While he has surely carved out a legacy in the sport that almost anyone would be proud to call his own, Trigg remains most proud of his career in amateur wrestling, which included team competition at University of Oklahoma and culminated with his outstanding showing in the Olympic trials.
“The whole thing was a great memory for me,” said Trigg. “It’s one of those things that I’ll never forget, especially at the level I took it to. I took it to a level that very few people ever get to go to. Being an amateur wrestler is something that will always be important to me. It developed who I am, what I do, and how I approach things.”
Tickets for Strikeforce “Payback,” priced from $30, are on sale at Ticketmaster (303-830-TIXS) and Ticketmaster.com
In the main event, knockout artist and Denver native, Duane “Bang” Ludwig (16-8), will attempt to avenge a previous defeat at the hands of “The Ultimate Fighter” season three veteran, Sam “The Squeeze” Morgan (19-10).
Also back in action at Strikeforce “Payback” will be “The New York Badass” Phil Baroni (12-10) and “The Ultimate Fighter” season four veteran, “The Secret Weapon” Pete Spratt (18-14), who will battle Donnie Liles (11-5).
Broomfield Event Center doors will open for Strikeforce “Payback” at 5:30 PM MST and the preliminary card will begin at 6:30 PM MST. The main card will commence at 8 PM MST.
“To me, it’s just another day for me,” said Trigg, a 2000 Olympic wrestling trials finalist and former UFC welterweight championship challenger who will battle Vitale in a featured Strikeforce “Payback” MMA contest at Broomfield, Colorado’s Broomfield Event Center on Friday, October 3rd. “All of my days start to run together so I don’t have any thoughts about a particular fighter.”
When the subject of conversation turns to the state of his career, though, Trigg’s tone suddenly becomes more focused and intense. “I’ve only got a couple fights left so every fight is important to me.”
At 38, Trigg may be nearing the end of his splendid run in professional MMA. It is in the last two years, however, which he has also turned in some of his most impressive performances, to date, including back-to-back wins over Jason “Mayhem” Miller and Kazo “The Grabaka Hitman” Misaki.
Trigg attributes these recent, good fortunes to his adoption of all-time great, Randy “The Natural” Couture, as a mentor. Training at the Xtreme Couture academy in Las Vegas, Nevada has provided him with a new outlook towards competition.
“One of my biggest problems has been that I’ve been my own worst enemy,” admitted Trigg. “I let that get in the way of my fights. One thing about Xtreme Couture, especially hanging out with Randy, is he (emphasizes) doing the best you can, so it really takes the stress off of you. For him, it’s always about being fun. So, it’s kind of interesting to see how he trains and I try to mimic the style.”
While he has surely carved out a legacy in the sport that almost anyone would be proud to call his own, Trigg remains most proud of his career in amateur wrestling, which included team competition at University of Oklahoma and culminated with his outstanding showing in the Olympic trials.
“The whole thing was a great memory for me,” said Trigg. “It’s one of those things that I’ll never forget, especially at the level I took it to. I took it to a level that very few people ever get to go to. Being an amateur wrestler is something that will always be important to me. It developed who I am, what I do, and how I approach things.”
Tickets for Strikeforce “Payback,” priced from $30, are on sale at Ticketmaster (303-830-TIXS) and Ticketmaster.com
In the main event, knockout artist and Denver native, Duane “Bang” Ludwig (16-8), will attempt to avenge a previous defeat at the hands of “The Ultimate Fighter” season three veteran, Sam “The Squeeze” Morgan (19-10).
Also back in action at Strikeforce “Payback” will be “The New York Badass” Phil Baroni (12-10) and “The Ultimate Fighter” season four veteran, “The Secret Weapon” Pete Spratt (18-14), who will battle Donnie Liles (11-5).
Broomfield Event Center doors will open for Strikeforce “Payback” at 5:30 PM MST and the preliminary card will begin at 6:30 PM MST. The main card will commence at 8 PM MST.
Kimbo Will Do His Magic With David Blaine Tonight, Jimmy Kimmel Tomorrow
LIGHTS! CAMERA! ACTION!
KIMBO ON TV THE NEXT TWO EVENINGS
EliteXC Heavyweight Sensation Will Appear On David Blaine Special Tonight;
Then Will Be a Featured Guest On “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” On Thursday
LOS ANGELES (Sept. 24, 2008) -- Incredibly popular YouTube fighting legend and undefeated mixed martial arts superstar, Kimbo Slice, will face legendary Hall Of Famer, Ken Shamrock, on Saturday, Oct. 4, on CBS at the BankAtlantic Center in Sunrise, Fla.
First, however, Kimbo, will appear on a new, two-hour primetime special, David Blaine: Dive of Death tonight and will be a special guest on the nationally televised late-night talk show “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” the following night, tomorrow/Thursday, Sept. 25.
Both shows air on the ABC Television Network. David Blaine: Dive of Death will be televised from 9-11 p.m. ET/PT. “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” airs at 12:05 a.m. ET/PT and 11:05 p.m. CT.
Kimbo will be featured in a unique segment with Blaine in which the magician attempts to replicate the “trick” that took the life of Harry Houdini. Blaine says he chose Kimbo to participate because the exciting, hard-hitting fighter is one of the few people he fears.
So, what’s the “trick” and does Blaine succeed? Well, you’ll have to tune in and find out.
Sitting across from Kimmel, the personable, always-entertaining Kimbo will discuss, among other topics, his eagerly anticipated matchup with Shamrock, “The World’s Most Dangerous Man.’’
Kimbo-Shamrock is a featured fight on the third installment of CBS ELITEXC SATURDAY NIGHT FIGHTS on the CBS Television network. The two-hour broadcast (9-11 p.m. ET/PT) also will include fights featuring EliteXC welterweight champion Jake Shields against Paul Daley, women's superstar Gina Carano and MMA standouts Murilo "Ninja" Rua, Benji Radach and Kelly Kobold.
Tickets start at $30 and are available at all Ticketmaster outlets, by phone at (954) 523-3309 in Broward County, (305) 358-5885 in Dade County and (561) 966-3309 in Palm Beach County, online at www.ticketmaster.com and at the BankAtlantic Center box offices (954) 835-7825.
The first live fight begins at 6 p.m. ET. The event is presented by Los Angeles-based ProElite, Inc.’s live fight division, EliteXC.
Besides Kimbo, Kimmel's guests Thursday will include actor Rob Lowe and Chef Chris Bianco.
KIMBO ON TV THE NEXT TWO EVENINGS
EliteXC Heavyweight Sensation Will Appear On David Blaine Special Tonight;
Then Will Be a Featured Guest On “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” On Thursday
LOS ANGELES (Sept. 24, 2008) -- Incredibly popular YouTube fighting legend and undefeated mixed martial arts superstar, Kimbo Slice, will face legendary Hall Of Famer, Ken Shamrock, on Saturday, Oct. 4, on CBS at the BankAtlantic Center in Sunrise, Fla.
First, however, Kimbo, will appear on a new, two-hour primetime special, David Blaine: Dive of Death tonight and will be a special guest on the nationally televised late-night talk show “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” the following night, tomorrow/Thursday, Sept. 25.
Both shows air on the ABC Television Network. David Blaine: Dive of Death will be televised from 9-11 p.m. ET/PT. “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” airs at 12:05 a.m. ET/PT and 11:05 p.m. CT.
Kimbo will be featured in a unique segment with Blaine in which the magician attempts to replicate the “trick” that took the life of Harry Houdini. Blaine says he chose Kimbo to participate because the exciting, hard-hitting fighter is one of the few people he fears.
So, what’s the “trick” and does Blaine succeed? Well, you’ll have to tune in and find out.
Sitting across from Kimmel, the personable, always-entertaining Kimbo will discuss, among other topics, his eagerly anticipated matchup with Shamrock, “The World’s Most Dangerous Man.’’
Kimbo-Shamrock is a featured fight on the third installment of CBS ELITEXC SATURDAY NIGHT FIGHTS on the CBS Television network. The two-hour broadcast (9-11 p.m. ET/PT) also will include fights featuring EliteXC welterweight champion Jake Shields against Paul Daley, women's superstar Gina Carano and MMA standouts Murilo "Ninja" Rua, Benji Radach and Kelly Kobold.
Tickets start at $30 and are available at all Ticketmaster outlets, by phone at (954) 523-3309 in Broward County, (305) 358-5885 in Dade County and (561) 966-3309 in Palm Beach County, online at www.ticketmaster.com and at the BankAtlantic Center box offices (954) 835-7825.
The first live fight begins at 6 p.m. ET. The event is presented by Los Angeles-based ProElite, Inc.’s live fight division, EliteXC.
Besides Kimbo, Kimmel's guests Thursday will include actor Rob Lowe and Chef Chris Bianco.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Gina and Kimbo Comments
KIMBO SLICE AND GINA CARANO
OPEN MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES
WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 17, 2008
Legends Mixed Martial Arts Training Center, Los Angeles
There was a tremendous turnout at the Kimbo Slice and Gina Carano open media workout Wednesday at Legends Mixed Martial Arts Training Center in Los Angeles. The fighters will appear on the upcoming third installment of CBS ELITEXC SATURDAY NIGHT FIGHTS, broadcast live from the BankAtlantic Center, in Sunrise, Fla., on Saturday, Oct. 4 (9-11 p.m., ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network.
A major attraction, the undefeated, incredibly popular Kimbo, of Perrine, Fla., near Miami, will face legendary Hall Of Famer Ken Shamrock in a featured fight on a stellar, star-studded mixed martial arts card that includes women’s superstar Gina “Conviction” Carano and MMA standouts Jake Shields, Paul Daley and Murilo “Ninja” Rua.
Tickets start at $30 and are available at all Ticketmaster outlets, by phone at (954) 523-3309 in Broward County, (305) 358-5885 in Dade County and (561) 966-3309 in Palm Beach County, online at www.ticketmaster.com and at the BankAtlantic Center box offices (954) 835-7825.
The BankAtlantic Center box offices are located on both the North and South sides of the main entrance. Their normal business hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday through Friday. The box office will be open the day of the event beginning at 10 a.m.
The first live fight begins at 6 p.m. ET. The event is presented by Los Angeles-based ProElite, Inc.’s live fight division, EliteXC.
Besides Kimbo-Shamrock, Shields defends his EliteXC welterweight belt against Daley, Carano collides with Kelly Kobold in a 140-pound bout and Rua, a former EliteXC middleweight belt-holder, faces Benji Radach at 185 pounds.
Cristiane “Cyborg’’ Santos meets Yoko Takahashi and Florida-based Edson Berto faces Hawaii’s Mike Aina at 170 in top undercard fights. The undercard also will feature Florida favorites Crafton Wallace and Seth Petruzelli, who will face foes to be announced. Wallace has won four straight and six of seven. Petruzelli, a former cast member of the Ultimate Fighter, has won eight of his last 10 fights.
What the fighters had to say Wednesday:
KIMBO SLICE:
“Once again, I’m fighting back in the crib. It feels like the backyard except, in EliteXC, we have a cage.
“I’m looking forward to beating Ken (Shamrock) and kicking his butt.
“I’ll kick his butt and let you guys take names. I’m hoping to see the best of Ken because he’ll see the best of Kimbo.
“My camp has pushed me harder than ever before. I have the endurance and I am prepared to go the distance. I doubt this fight will go the distance, but if it does, I’m ready.
“I’m like a sponge. I pick up something from everyone I work with. If something doesn’t work in the cage I will switch it up to something that does. I’ll do whatever it takes to win.
“I’ve worked on punches, takedowns, takedown defense, chokes, armbars, you name it. Anything that Shamrock tries on me, I am prepared for.
“Nothing is going to stop me once that fight starts. I’ll fight with a broken arm if the referee doesn’t stop the fight. I will be unstoppable on Oct. 4.
“I’ve envisioned anything that can happen in the cage. I’m ready for anything that can possibly go down.
“I question Ken’s ground game. He’s going to try and find a way to make me uneasy, but that’s not going to happen. I’m never uptight.
“Bas (Rutten) has done everything he can to help me. Bas and Randy (Khatami) have made me a complete and well rounded fighter.
“Everyday I train it’s a serious problem for all the heavyweight fighters out there. Everyday I get better and they should all be scared.
“LaDainian Tomlinson was a good guy to work out with. That was a lot of fun.
“EliteXC and CBS are a good thing for the sport. This is making the sport bigger and better. If it wasn’t this big, think about what you and I would be doing.
“Against (James) Thompson I learned that no matter what happens, nothing will hurt me. It’s mind over matter. Mentally, I knew I was alright. It may have looked like I was in trouble, but I was fine. It’s mind over matter.
“Nothing really scares me, except for myself. At times, I find myself unpredictable. It’s a mental struggle. A mental fight.
“I love training with Bas and Randy. I know how to control my entire game right now.”
GINA CARANO:
“I’ve got one of the toughest fights of my life coming up. I’m coming ready to fight. I’m going to give it my all.
“I’ve handled the press and won’t let it get to my head. I’m just living my life and doing my best.
“It’s been unbelievable to be at the forefront of women’s MMA. Raising the recognition of the sport has been a blessing. The fan support has been amazing. I’m standing up here because of the fans.
“There is something so pure and honest about two women fighting. The fans just love it.
“Randy and Kim, the whole Extreme Couture family, is tough. They expect the best from me and push me to my limits.
“My dad told me to stay in school because he wanted the best from me. But I think I’ve learned some of the best lessons in life from fighting. I don’t have the college degree I was going for, but I have the experiences.
“America is a strange place to be when you are a star. I wish our culture would respect people as human beings and not as objects. When you’re in the spotlight they love you, but that is very short lived.
“This training camp has been going very well. I have a lot of knowledge of what I’ve been doing right and what I’ve been doing wrong.
“I’m a fighter. My job is to fight.
“EliteXC is doing great things for the sport. I’m not trying to be a promoter. I just put on a good show and hope that people watch it.
“I am a recognized female in the sport, but I don’t think that I am the face of women’s MMA. It’s just a label. I’m Gina Carano. You can label me that.
“I am a different person everyday. I may not look my best at a weigh in, but I’ll be good the next day.
“Kelly (Kobold) is well rounded and she is coming to fight. I’m glad I’m going to be tested.
“My game plan is to fight a good fight. I’ve been studying her style, how she reacts under pressure and when she gets hit, but nothing compares to when you get in there and the fight starts.
“I’m a fighter first and foremost. American Gladiators was a good experience. I’m motivated by learning experiences, not by money or fame, so it opened my mind to a lot of things.
“Everyone has their own niche in life. I just seem to gravitate towards physical violence.”
OPEN MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES
WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 17, 2008
Legends Mixed Martial Arts Training Center, Los Angeles
There was a tremendous turnout at the Kimbo Slice and Gina Carano open media workout Wednesday at Legends Mixed Martial Arts Training Center in Los Angeles. The fighters will appear on the upcoming third installment of CBS ELITEXC SATURDAY NIGHT FIGHTS, broadcast live from the BankAtlantic Center, in Sunrise, Fla., on Saturday, Oct. 4 (9-11 p.m., ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network.
A major attraction, the undefeated, incredibly popular Kimbo, of Perrine, Fla., near Miami, will face legendary Hall Of Famer Ken Shamrock in a featured fight on a stellar, star-studded mixed martial arts card that includes women’s superstar Gina “Conviction” Carano and MMA standouts Jake Shields, Paul Daley and Murilo “Ninja” Rua.
Tickets start at $30 and are available at all Ticketmaster outlets, by phone at (954) 523-3309 in Broward County, (305) 358-5885 in Dade County and (561) 966-3309 in Palm Beach County, online at www.ticketmaster.com and at the BankAtlantic Center box offices (954) 835-7825.
The BankAtlantic Center box offices are located on both the North and South sides of the main entrance. Their normal business hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday through Friday. The box office will be open the day of the event beginning at 10 a.m.
The first live fight begins at 6 p.m. ET. The event is presented by Los Angeles-based ProElite, Inc.’s live fight division, EliteXC.
Besides Kimbo-Shamrock, Shields defends his EliteXC welterweight belt against Daley, Carano collides with Kelly Kobold in a 140-pound bout and Rua, a former EliteXC middleweight belt-holder, faces Benji Radach at 185 pounds.
Cristiane “Cyborg’’ Santos meets Yoko Takahashi and Florida-based Edson Berto faces Hawaii’s Mike Aina at 170 in top undercard fights. The undercard also will feature Florida favorites Crafton Wallace and Seth Petruzelli, who will face foes to be announced. Wallace has won four straight and six of seven. Petruzelli, a former cast member of the Ultimate Fighter, has won eight of his last 10 fights.
What the fighters had to say Wednesday:
KIMBO SLICE:
“Once again, I’m fighting back in the crib. It feels like the backyard except, in EliteXC, we have a cage.
“I’m looking forward to beating Ken (Shamrock) and kicking his butt.
“I’ll kick his butt and let you guys take names. I’m hoping to see the best of Ken because he’ll see the best of Kimbo.
“My camp has pushed me harder than ever before. I have the endurance and I am prepared to go the distance. I doubt this fight will go the distance, but if it does, I’m ready.
“I’m like a sponge. I pick up something from everyone I work with. If something doesn’t work in the cage I will switch it up to something that does. I’ll do whatever it takes to win.
“I’ve worked on punches, takedowns, takedown defense, chokes, armbars, you name it. Anything that Shamrock tries on me, I am prepared for.
“Nothing is going to stop me once that fight starts. I’ll fight with a broken arm if the referee doesn’t stop the fight. I will be unstoppable on Oct. 4.
“I’ve envisioned anything that can happen in the cage. I’m ready for anything that can possibly go down.
“I question Ken’s ground game. He’s going to try and find a way to make me uneasy, but that’s not going to happen. I’m never uptight.
“Bas (Rutten) has done everything he can to help me. Bas and Randy (Khatami) have made me a complete and well rounded fighter.
“Everyday I train it’s a serious problem for all the heavyweight fighters out there. Everyday I get better and they should all be scared.
“LaDainian Tomlinson was a good guy to work out with. That was a lot of fun.
“EliteXC and CBS are a good thing for the sport. This is making the sport bigger and better. If it wasn’t this big, think about what you and I would be doing.
“Against (James) Thompson I learned that no matter what happens, nothing will hurt me. It’s mind over matter. Mentally, I knew I was alright. It may have looked like I was in trouble, but I was fine. It’s mind over matter.
“Nothing really scares me, except for myself. At times, I find myself unpredictable. It’s a mental struggle. A mental fight.
“I love training with Bas and Randy. I know how to control my entire game right now.”
GINA CARANO:
“I’ve got one of the toughest fights of my life coming up. I’m coming ready to fight. I’m going to give it my all.
“I’ve handled the press and won’t let it get to my head. I’m just living my life and doing my best.
“It’s been unbelievable to be at the forefront of women’s MMA. Raising the recognition of the sport has been a blessing. The fan support has been amazing. I’m standing up here because of the fans.
“There is something so pure and honest about two women fighting. The fans just love it.
“Randy and Kim, the whole Extreme Couture family, is tough. They expect the best from me and push me to my limits.
“My dad told me to stay in school because he wanted the best from me. But I think I’ve learned some of the best lessons in life from fighting. I don’t have the college degree I was going for, but I have the experiences.
“America is a strange place to be when you are a star. I wish our culture would respect people as human beings and not as objects. When you’re in the spotlight they love you, but that is very short lived.
“This training camp has been going very well. I have a lot of knowledge of what I’ve been doing right and what I’ve been doing wrong.
“I’m a fighter. My job is to fight.
“EliteXC is doing great things for the sport. I’m not trying to be a promoter. I just put on a good show and hope that people watch it.
“I am a recognized female in the sport, but I don’t think that I am the face of women’s MMA. It’s just a label. I’m Gina Carano. You can label me that.
“I am a different person everyday. I may not look my best at a weigh in, but I’ll be good the next day.
“Kelly (Kobold) is well rounded and she is coming to fight. I’m glad I’m going to be tested.
“My game plan is to fight a good fight. I’ve been studying her style, how she reacts under pressure and when she gets hit, but nothing compares to when you get in there and the fight starts.
“I’m a fighter first and foremost. American Gladiators was a good experience. I’m motivated by learning experiences, not by money or fame, so it opened my mind to a lot of things.
“Everyone has their own niche in life. I just seem to gravitate towards physical violence.”
Wilson Reis going for EXC gold
ELITEXC WILL INTRODUCE 140-POUND TITLE
WITH WILSON REIS FACING ABEL CULLUM
FRIDAY, SEPT. 26, AT CHUMASH CASINO RESORT
___________________________________________________________________________________
Telecast Will Include Fights Between Shane Del Rosario and Carl Seumanutafa,
Malaipet and ‘Tarzan’ Douglas, “Arm Collector’’ Santana and Jaime Jara,
Erik Apple and Matt Makowski
LIVE on SHOWTIME at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast)
LOS ANGELES (Sept. 19, 2008) – The first-ever EliteXC bantamweight (140-pound) champion will be crowned when promising, undefeated Brazilian Wilson Reis (5-0) of Philadelphia faces streaking King of The Cage titleholder Abel “The Silent Assassin’’ Cullum (11-1) of Tucumcari, N.M., in a solid matchup in the main event on ShoXC: Elite Challenger Series Friday, Sept. 26, live on SHOWTIME at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast) at the Chumash Casino Resort at Santa Ynez, Calif.
ShoXC, a presentation of Los Angeles-based ProElite, Inc.’s live fight division, EliteXC, showcases young, talented fighters in tough matchups. A springboard for the future stars and champions of EliteXC, ShoXC is patterned after the SHOWTIME boxing series ShoBox: The New Generation.
In other SHOWTIME fights, Shane Del Rosario (4-0) of Irvine, Calif., faces Carl Seumanutafa (4-0) of San Francisco, Calif., in a battle of unbeaten heavyweights; Malaipet (3-2) of Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., meets David “Tarzan” Douglas (5-1) of Antioch, Calif., at 150 pounds; Giva “The Arm Collector” Santana (11-0) of Laguna Niguel, Calif., takes on Jaime Jara (19-5) of North Highlands, Calif., at 185; and Matt Makowski (3-0) of Philadelphia throws down with Eric “Bad” Apple (9-1) of Irvine, at 170.
Tickets, starting at $35, are available by visiting the Chumash Casino Resort’s Club Chumash, by visiting the website at www.chumashcasino.com or by calling StarTicketsPlus at (800) 800-585-3737. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. First live fight is at 6 p.m. PT.
Non-televised bouts: Jamiah Williamson (3-0) of Los Angeles collides with Scott Lighty (3-0) of San Luis Obispo, Calif., at 205; Steve Gable (2-0) of San Diego battles Josh McDonald (3-3) of Antioch at 160; Mono Otero (3-2) of Albuquerque, N.M., goes against Paul Arras (4-1) of Los Angeles at 185; Luke Riddering (1-0) of San Luis Obispo opposes Devin Howard (1-1) of La Habra, Calif. at 170; and Michael Gahan of Santa Ynez engages Eric Franco of Los Angeles in a clash of debuting 160-pounders.
The championship fight – Reis vs. Cullum – is scheduled for five 5-minute rounds. All other fights on the card are scheduled for three 5-minute rounds.
Reis (pronounced “H-ace”) is a 23-year-old Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt stud who has been on a tear since coming to EliteXC in January 2008, going 3-0.
Considered one of the top competitive, young grapplers in the world, Reis earned a hard-fought unanimous three-round decision over game Bryan Caraway in his last start on July 26, 2008.
The high-energy Reis moved to the United States several years ago. Initially, he worked in construction but it was always his intention to teach and train Jiu-Jitsu in the U.S. “I’m here to fight the best and prove myself against the best,’’ said Reis, who trains and instructs at two of Philadelphia’s top MMA and BJJ Academies, Daddis Fight Camps and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu United.
Reis will have a size advantage, but Cullum, despite a step up in weight, will provide a formidable challenge. He is an aggressive striker, possesses a strong background in wrestling and has displayed solid submission defense, which should bode well against Reis, who has choked out three of his five foes.
Cullum has won 10 straight – all via stoppage, nine in the first round -- while fighting for King of the Cage and the New Mexico-based Desert Extreme organization. The KOTC 135-pound belt-holder has not lost since December 2005. He holds titles in several organizations and is a five-time Desert Extreme bantamweight champion and two-time Southwest Fury titlist.
In his last outing, Cullum, who is also known as “Cowboy,’’ captured the KOTC belt with an upset fifth-round submission over big favorite Ryan Diaz on May 17, 2008.
“It’s been awesome and very exciting since (winning the belt),’’ Cullum said “Now I have an opportunity to keep it going. I’m going to fight my heart out. I don’t like decisions. I’ve only had one and it was the only loss in my career. I don’t plan on going to a decision again.
“I want to represent myself and this sport the best as I can. I’ve been the underdog in most of my fights. I like that. You don’t want to underestimate me.’’
Del Rosario, a strong prospect in not one, but two combat sports – he also is an active professional Muay Thai fighter -- is making his third consecutive appearance on ShoXC.
In his last start on March 21, 2008, he scored a 3:18, first-round TKO over Analu Brash at Chumash. Del Rosario is known for his Muay Thai skills, but he dropped Brash with a low leg kick and used some impressive ground-and-pound skills to finish the massive Brash with left hands and elbows.
On Oct. 26, 2007, Del Rosario, who trains out of No Limits MMA in Irvine, registered a 2:27, first-round submission (armbar) over Amedeo Viola.
None of Del Rosario’s MMA fights have made it past the fourth minute of the first round.
Seumanutafa won his EliteXC debut and fourth consecutive fight with an eye-opening 3:39, first-round TKO (punches) over Mike Cook in a non-televised fight on July 26, 2008. A good action scrap ended shortly after Seumanutafa fell straight onto Cook's sternum, knocking the wind out of him.
Seumanutafa followed with some bad looking shots on the ground before the referee stepped in. The winner reacted with a Maowi-warrior style celebration.
Malaipet, a Lumpinee champ in Thailand, will try and regain his winning ways after losing by first-round disqualification (illegal elbows) to Thomas “Wildman” Denny March 21, 2008, on ShoXC.
Many feel if any fighter can make the difficult transformation from world-class superstar Muay Thai kickboxer to elite status in MMA, it is Malaipet.
But so far in his brief MMA career, the popular, exciting, Malaipet, who went 160-26 in Muay Thai, according to his management, has yet to prove he can do it on the ground. If he can keep it on his feet, Malaipet is extremely dangerous. Otherwise, he is susceptible.
Malaipet has a very Thai style of movement, which he exhibited in a dominant performance en route to winning his ShoXC debut on a unanimous decision over Kaleo Kwan on Oct. 26, 2007. Malaipet was calm, relaxed, punched in combination and showcased his astounding striking skills as he decimated Kwan during a three-round standup war at Chumash.
But can Malaipet learn a ground game, so he doesn't get tossed to the mat again and, possibly, get submitted? For sure, Douglas, while lacking in overall experience, will try and find out.
A member of Cesar Gracie’s Jiu-Jitsu Academy, Douglas is making his ShoXC debut after winning his last two starts in a combined 1:26. He stopped Marlon Matias (strikes) after only 12 seconds July 26, 2008, The following Aug. 15, he worked a minute longer, winning by 1:12, first round TKO (corner stoppage) over William Jacobson. Both outings were on EliteXC non-televised undercard fights.
Douglas’ lone loss came in his pro debut to world-ranked Jeff Curran on March 5, 2005. He took a two-year break but has gone 3-0 since. This will, by far, be the sternest challenge of his career.
Santana, a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and five-time world champ, is aptly nicknamed “The Arm Collector.” Ten of the unbeaten submission specialist’s 11 victories have come by armbar, all in the first round.
In his last start, Santana submitted previously undefeated southpaw Matt “Luke Duke’’ Lucas (9-1) of Phoenix, Ariz., at 1:49 of the first round in a battle of unbeatens at 185 pounds.
“This was definitely one of my toughest fights,’’ said Santana after adding another arm to his mantle. “He was a great fighter, but I got him.’’
Jara, however, will be a tad more difficult to submit. It’s been nearly five years (November 2003) and 19 bouts since the ex-King of the Cage heavyweight and light heavy champ’s been forced to tap out.
A winner of three straight, Jara has compiled a record of 14-1 with one No Contest since June ‘04. The loss came on a close decision to Rashad Evans.
Jara is 1-1 on ShoXC. He defeated Jeremiah Metcalf on a second-round KO (punch) on July 27, 2007, and lost via second-round TKO (punches) to Seth Kleinbeck the following Aug. 25.
Both Santana, who obviously likes to use a Jiu-Jitsu attack, and Jara, who uses more of a wrestling base to transition to submissions or ground and pound, are brimming with confidence, which will make this a very competitive, entertaining matchup.
Apple, 31, who began his career with nine straight victories, has gone the distance just once in a five-year career. The talented veteran is making his ShoXC debut and first start since March 2007.
A former professional bodyboarder, bigtime BMX rider, host of action sports TV shows, including the X-Games, associate publisher of a publishing house that produced motocross, wakeboard, bodyboard and surfing periodicals, Apple is possibly the only fighter to enter MMA in order to preserve his body.
“I was thinking of something I needed to do that’s safe and fighting’s the safest thing I’ve done,’’ he said. “Compared to other sports I’ve been involved with, there’s a lot better chance of staying healthy’’
Apple, 31, started in Ruas Vale Tudo. He trains with Michael “Joker” Guymon at Joker’s Wild Fighting Academy in Lake Forest, Calif.
While Apple has built his record in a handful of West Coast organizations, winning titles along the way, the highly regarded Makowski, 21, has been making a name for himself on the East Coast.
A former high school football standout, Makowski is seeking his third consecutive victory for EliteXC in 2008. He beat Nick Serra on a second-round DQ when Serra refused to get up on May 31. By staying down, Serra denied Makowski a chance to finish him after he had been mostly picked apart.
The previous Jan. 28, Makowski showed a good ground game to go with his striking en route to registering an excellent 4:01, first-round submission (rear naked choke) over Joe Schilling.
Makowski is fundamentally sound, possesses well-rounded skills and terrific cardio. The always well-prepared product of the Daddis Fight camp in Philadelphia, Makowski has yet to be severely challenged in a pro, amateur or Muay Thai fight, so it will be interesting to see how this plays out.
WITH WILSON REIS FACING ABEL CULLUM
FRIDAY, SEPT. 26, AT CHUMASH CASINO RESORT
___________________________________________________________________________________
Telecast Will Include Fights Between Shane Del Rosario and Carl Seumanutafa,
Malaipet and ‘Tarzan’ Douglas, “Arm Collector’’ Santana and Jaime Jara,
Erik Apple and Matt Makowski
LIVE on SHOWTIME at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast)
LOS ANGELES (Sept. 19, 2008) – The first-ever EliteXC bantamweight (140-pound) champion will be crowned when promising, undefeated Brazilian Wilson Reis (5-0) of Philadelphia faces streaking King of The Cage titleholder Abel “The Silent Assassin’’ Cullum (11-1) of Tucumcari, N.M., in a solid matchup in the main event on ShoXC: Elite Challenger Series Friday, Sept. 26, live on SHOWTIME at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast) at the Chumash Casino Resort at Santa Ynez, Calif.
ShoXC, a presentation of Los Angeles-based ProElite, Inc.’s live fight division, EliteXC, showcases young, talented fighters in tough matchups. A springboard for the future stars and champions of EliteXC, ShoXC is patterned after the SHOWTIME boxing series ShoBox: The New Generation.
In other SHOWTIME fights, Shane Del Rosario (4-0) of Irvine, Calif., faces Carl Seumanutafa (4-0) of San Francisco, Calif., in a battle of unbeaten heavyweights; Malaipet (3-2) of Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., meets David “Tarzan” Douglas (5-1) of Antioch, Calif., at 150 pounds; Giva “The Arm Collector” Santana (11-0) of Laguna Niguel, Calif., takes on Jaime Jara (19-5) of North Highlands, Calif., at 185; and Matt Makowski (3-0) of Philadelphia throws down with Eric “Bad” Apple (9-1) of Irvine, at 170.
Tickets, starting at $35, are available by visiting the Chumash Casino Resort’s Club Chumash, by visiting the website at www.chumashcasino.com or by calling StarTicketsPlus at (800) 800-585-3737. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. First live fight is at 6 p.m. PT.
Non-televised bouts: Jamiah Williamson (3-0) of Los Angeles collides with Scott Lighty (3-0) of San Luis Obispo, Calif., at 205; Steve Gable (2-0) of San Diego battles Josh McDonald (3-3) of Antioch at 160; Mono Otero (3-2) of Albuquerque, N.M., goes against Paul Arras (4-1) of Los Angeles at 185; Luke Riddering (1-0) of San Luis Obispo opposes Devin Howard (1-1) of La Habra, Calif. at 170; and Michael Gahan of Santa Ynez engages Eric Franco of Los Angeles in a clash of debuting 160-pounders.
The championship fight – Reis vs. Cullum – is scheduled for five 5-minute rounds. All other fights on the card are scheduled for three 5-minute rounds.
Reis (pronounced “H-ace”) is a 23-year-old Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt stud who has been on a tear since coming to EliteXC in January 2008, going 3-0.
Considered one of the top competitive, young grapplers in the world, Reis earned a hard-fought unanimous three-round decision over game Bryan Caraway in his last start on July 26, 2008.
The high-energy Reis moved to the United States several years ago. Initially, he worked in construction but it was always his intention to teach and train Jiu-Jitsu in the U.S. “I’m here to fight the best and prove myself against the best,’’ said Reis, who trains and instructs at two of Philadelphia’s top MMA and BJJ Academies, Daddis Fight Camps and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu United.
Reis will have a size advantage, but Cullum, despite a step up in weight, will provide a formidable challenge. He is an aggressive striker, possesses a strong background in wrestling and has displayed solid submission defense, which should bode well against Reis, who has choked out three of his five foes.
Cullum has won 10 straight – all via stoppage, nine in the first round -- while fighting for King of the Cage and the New Mexico-based Desert Extreme organization. The KOTC 135-pound belt-holder has not lost since December 2005. He holds titles in several organizations and is a five-time Desert Extreme bantamweight champion and two-time Southwest Fury titlist.
In his last outing, Cullum, who is also known as “Cowboy,’’ captured the KOTC belt with an upset fifth-round submission over big favorite Ryan Diaz on May 17, 2008.
“It’s been awesome and very exciting since (winning the belt),’’ Cullum said “Now I have an opportunity to keep it going. I’m going to fight my heart out. I don’t like decisions. I’ve only had one and it was the only loss in my career. I don’t plan on going to a decision again.
“I want to represent myself and this sport the best as I can. I’ve been the underdog in most of my fights. I like that. You don’t want to underestimate me.’’
Del Rosario, a strong prospect in not one, but two combat sports – he also is an active professional Muay Thai fighter -- is making his third consecutive appearance on ShoXC.
In his last start on March 21, 2008, he scored a 3:18, first-round TKO over Analu Brash at Chumash. Del Rosario is known for his Muay Thai skills, but he dropped Brash with a low leg kick and used some impressive ground-and-pound skills to finish the massive Brash with left hands and elbows.
On Oct. 26, 2007, Del Rosario, who trains out of No Limits MMA in Irvine, registered a 2:27, first-round submission (armbar) over Amedeo Viola.
None of Del Rosario’s MMA fights have made it past the fourth minute of the first round.
Seumanutafa won his EliteXC debut and fourth consecutive fight with an eye-opening 3:39, first-round TKO (punches) over Mike Cook in a non-televised fight on July 26, 2008. A good action scrap ended shortly after Seumanutafa fell straight onto Cook's sternum, knocking the wind out of him.
Seumanutafa followed with some bad looking shots on the ground before the referee stepped in. The winner reacted with a Maowi-warrior style celebration.
Malaipet, a Lumpinee champ in Thailand, will try and regain his winning ways after losing by first-round disqualification (illegal elbows) to Thomas “Wildman” Denny March 21, 2008, on ShoXC.
Many feel if any fighter can make the difficult transformation from world-class superstar Muay Thai kickboxer to elite status in MMA, it is Malaipet.
But so far in his brief MMA career, the popular, exciting, Malaipet, who went 160-26 in Muay Thai, according to his management, has yet to prove he can do it on the ground. If he can keep it on his feet, Malaipet is extremely dangerous. Otherwise, he is susceptible.
Malaipet has a very Thai style of movement, which he exhibited in a dominant performance en route to winning his ShoXC debut on a unanimous decision over Kaleo Kwan on Oct. 26, 2007. Malaipet was calm, relaxed, punched in combination and showcased his astounding striking skills as he decimated Kwan during a three-round standup war at Chumash.
But can Malaipet learn a ground game, so he doesn't get tossed to the mat again and, possibly, get submitted? For sure, Douglas, while lacking in overall experience, will try and find out.
A member of Cesar Gracie’s Jiu-Jitsu Academy, Douglas is making his ShoXC debut after winning his last two starts in a combined 1:26. He stopped Marlon Matias (strikes) after only 12 seconds July 26, 2008, The following Aug. 15, he worked a minute longer, winning by 1:12, first round TKO (corner stoppage) over William Jacobson. Both outings were on EliteXC non-televised undercard fights.
Douglas’ lone loss came in his pro debut to world-ranked Jeff Curran on March 5, 2005. He took a two-year break but has gone 3-0 since. This will, by far, be the sternest challenge of his career.
Santana, a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and five-time world champ, is aptly nicknamed “The Arm Collector.” Ten of the unbeaten submission specialist’s 11 victories have come by armbar, all in the first round.
In his last start, Santana submitted previously undefeated southpaw Matt “Luke Duke’’ Lucas (9-1) of Phoenix, Ariz., at 1:49 of the first round in a battle of unbeatens at 185 pounds.
“This was definitely one of my toughest fights,’’ said Santana after adding another arm to his mantle. “He was a great fighter, but I got him.’’
Jara, however, will be a tad more difficult to submit. It’s been nearly five years (November 2003) and 19 bouts since the ex-King of the Cage heavyweight and light heavy champ’s been forced to tap out.
A winner of three straight, Jara has compiled a record of 14-1 with one No Contest since June ‘04. The loss came on a close decision to Rashad Evans.
Jara is 1-1 on ShoXC. He defeated Jeremiah Metcalf on a second-round KO (punch) on July 27, 2007, and lost via second-round TKO (punches) to Seth Kleinbeck the following Aug. 25.
Both Santana, who obviously likes to use a Jiu-Jitsu attack, and Jara, who uses more of a wrestling base to transition to submissions or ground and pound, are brimming with confidence, which will make this a very competitive, entertaining matchup.
Apple, 31, who began his career with nine straight victories, has gone the distance just once in a five-year career. The talented veteran is making his ShoXC debut and first start since March 2007.
A former professional bodyboarder, bigtime BMX rider, host of action sports TV shows, including the X-Games, associate publisher of a publishing house that produced motocross, wakeboard, bodyboard and surfing periodicals, Apple is possibly the only fighter to enter MMA in order to preserve his body.
“I was thinking of something I needed to do that’s safe and fighting’s the safest thing I’ve done,’’ he said. “Compared to other sports I’ve been involved with, there’s a lot better chance of staying healthy’’
Apple, 31, started in Ruas Vale Tudo. He trains with Michael “Joker” Guymon at Joker’s Wild Fighting Academy in Lake Forest, Calif.
While Apple has built his record in a handful of West Coast organizations, winning titles along the way, the highly regarded Makowski, 21, has been making a name for himself on the East Coast.
A former high school football standout, Makowski is seeking his third consecutive victory for EliteXC in 2008. He beat Nick Serra on a second-round DQ when Serra refused to get up on May 31. By staying down, Serra denied Makowski a chance to finish him after he had been mostly picked apart.
The previous Jan. 28, Makowski showed a good ground game to go with his striking en route to registering an excellent 4:01, first-round submission (rear naked choke) over Joe Schilling.
Makowski is fundamentally sound, possesses well-rounded skills and terrific cardio. The always well-prepared product of the Daddis Fight camp in Philadelphia, Makowski has yet to be severely challenged in a pro, amateur or Muay Thai fight, so it will be interesting to see how this plays out.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Fantasy MMA Concept
Josh Stein over at MMA Opinion has a post with an interesting concept for fantasy MMA:
Most of the fantasys uff i have done has been over at MMAPlayground but this should be interesting concept as he talks more about it.
Scoring Breakdown:
If your fighter is on the card: +5 points
If your fighter is in a title fight: +6 points
If your fighter wins said title fight: +2 points
If your fighter is involved in the Main Event (LAST FIGHT of the event): +3 points (regardless of win / loss)
If your fighter wins in 1st round: +10 points
- via KO: +3 point bonus
- via TKO: +2 point bonus
- via Sub: +1 point bonus
If your fighter wins in 2nd round: +8 points
If your fighter wins in 3rd round: +7 points
If your fighter wins in 4th round: +6 points
If your fighter wins in 5th round: +5 points
If your fighter wins by Unanimous Decision: +4 points
If your fighter wins by Majority Decision: +3 points
If your fighter wins by Split Decision: +2 points
If your fighter loses a fight: -4 points
If your fighter is Disqualified: -5 points
If your fighter is involved in a Draw: 0 point value
Most of the fantasys uff i have done has been over at MMAPlayground but this should be interesting concept as he talks more about it.
Fox Fight Game on Kimbo Part 2
Mike Straka living up to Fox News' reputation for excellent reporting/analysis.....
clownshoes
Strikeforce on G4
Mike Afromowitz......so that's the guy I get all those e-mail press releases from.
Jeff Monson vs Mark Kerr
Vengeance Fighting Championship is putting on a card next week-end, aturday Sept 27th, with a few decent names on it and it will be streamed over the internet. The card features Jeff Monson vs Mark Kerr, along with UFC vets Conan Silveira, Carmelo Marrero, and TUF guy Cale Yarbrough. The card will be streamed at DonKing.tv.
Kim, fighting for the Ryder Cup, is an Ultimate Fighting Fan
Pro Golfer Anthony Kim is representing the US, looking to recapture the Ryder this Cup Week-End, but he spoke with pgatour.com earlier this year and talked about his affinity for the UFC:
Q. Did the early tee time affect you at all good or bad?
ANTHONY KIM: You know, it did because I wanted to watch the UFC fight last night, and if I got a late tee time, I figured I could watch it and not worry about sleep.
But anyway, when I found out, I wasn't sure if I was going to watch it and stayed up until about one watching the fights, and had to get up a little bit earlier than I wanted, but you know, that's the cost of watching that pay per view, I guess.
Q. What time did you get up?
ANTHONY KIM: I got up about 6 o'clock.
Q. What fights were these?
ANTHONY KIM: The UFC fights.
Q. Second career for you maybe?
ANTHONY KIM: I don't think so. (Laughter).
Q. You could, though, if you wanted to, right?
ANTHONY KIM: Probably, not. I mean, I would go in there with a bat. (Laughter) If I didn't have a weapon, I wouldn't do in there.
Q. Not to make too much light of this, but do you have part of that mentality?
ANTHONY KIM: I guess I want to beat everybody I play against, and whether I'm friends with somebody or not, it doesn't really matter. When we're inside the ropes, I don't mind hammering on somebody. I love beating up on my friends at home. If they wanted -- a lot of them like to talk and say they are going to beat me that day, and I just love hammering them. So you know, I love the competition and I love winning, so I guess that attitude is what you need to be in the UFC, but I'm not going to speak for what they feel.
Tank vs Josh Barnett
Japanese fighting legend Antonio Inoki likes to put on worked MMA fights in his IGF promotion. This one is a doozy, as he matches up Tank Abbott vs Josh Barnettt. Enjoy.
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