"Keep
away from people who belittle your ambitions. Small people always
do that, but the really great, make you feel that you too can
become great."
Mark
Twain
Ricco
Rodriguez (part 2)
Ricco
Rodriguez is set to fight Tim Sylvia as his first title defense
in UFC 41 on February 28th in Atlantic City. In part one we heard
Ricco’s opinion on Sylvia and his own past. Now we hear
a little more about the philosophy that drove Ricco from his
days on Staten Island to his current status as the UFC Heavyweight
champ and headliner of the next UFC card.
KM:
How does it feel to be the champion right now? Congratulations
by the way.
RR: Thank you very much. It feels phenomenal. I’ve worked
so hard. My whole life has been showing people I can succeed
in life no matter what it takes, coming from nothing and putting
myself into something. That’s a great feeling. My whole
life I’ve worked hard, coming from a deprived childhood
and stress and living in the ghetto coming from Patterson, New
Jersey. Being able to travel around the world because of jiu-jitsu
for the Machado brothers since I started training, it’s
taken me a long way. That philosophy of life has changed who
I am. Being a kid from the East Coast with a little bit of anger
and hatred inside and meeting the Machado brothers who are nothing
but caring and giving brothers taught me a whole new path of
life and jiu-jitsu changed my life. It’s taken me to where
I am today.
KM:
As far as your fight with Couture, how do you look back on that?
Do you consider that the pinnacle of your performance, what you
want the new fans to judge you on?
RR: Not necessarily because that was not my best fight. That
was an impressive fight; I couldn’t have beat a better man
for that title (but) I wasn’t really happy with my performance.
There was a lot of political things going on backstage, there
was a lot of pressure because it was my first title fight, and
the fact I was fighting Randy Couture who was also a lot more
prepared for this fight after losing to Josh Barnett. He had
been more aware of what was going to happen and he was prepared
in a different way. I fought a better Randy Couture but I don’t
think it was a fight that everybody should remember in reference
to is that going to be my best fight. It was a big stepping stone
for me and I think people were impressed by the fact I fought
a great fight and showed a lot of heart in that fight.
KM:
It seems like you have pretty much done it all; you’ve been
in Abu Dhabi, Pride, King Of The Cage, now the UFC as it’s
champion…it seems like there isn’t much more for you
to conquer. Are you getting jaded on this yet?
RR: I think there are a lot of things left for me to conquer.
One is for me to take time and give back to a lot the communities,
helping people. I’m really working on a book right now,
training Vin Diesel for his movie, and I think this is going
to take me into a whole other level and show people that they
can do anything and become anything in life. It is all up to
you and your personal power and will to succeed in life. This
is all a stepping stone for me. 25 years old, I really believe
you can succeed at anything in life and I want to show everybody
that. Anything can be done with just opening your eyes and just
dreaming a bigger dream. That’s what I’m doing. It’s
not the end of the road for me. I plan on defending my title
for another year and a half and then giving it up and moving
on to something else and waiting for the sport to become one
of the greatest things in the world.
KM:
You really do make a good spokesperson. What is this about a
book? Are you done writing your book?
RR: My book is actually in process. It will be finished in June
and published in June. It’s pretty much going to be Ricco
Rodriguez “How To Win a Street Fight” and it’s
basically a concept of how you can succeed in anything in life
no matter where you are, no matter what you do. It talks about
motivation, it talks about weight loss, going out there and conquering
anything you want to be in life. It talks about my struggles
and my thing and how I conquered them and then it talks about
people I’ve met, how I’ve been to Abu Dhabi, I’ve
been to Japan, and how you need to take opportunities to their
fullest. If you open doors for yourself you really need to take
it to the next level. It’s going to touch so many things
that I think people are going to be shocked when they actually
see it. It talks about me and my daughter, how I was a single
father for almost two years raising my child, talks about my
family, the trials and tribulations that I went through…it’s
just going to educate people; how to better themselves in almost
every aspect of life whether it’s dressing well, remembering
people’s names, just things people take for granted that
took me where I am from a kid in New Jersey and New York.
KM:
That will be out around June?
RR: It will be out in June.
KM:
Do you have any sponsorships to thank?
RR: KMC Wheels, Sinister Clothing, and Spankys.
For
more information check out www.riccorodriguez.tv, one of the better
fighter websites with an informative bio, some video interviews,
and even a link to Show No Pity’s forum. Also be sure to
check your local listings for the pay-per-view of UFC 41 if you
can’t make it there live, it’s going to be a great
show.
Source:
ADCC
OntheMat
Releases New Videos
Our
friends at OntheMat.com have just released a bunch of great videos
for all the BJJ and Submission Grappling Afficionados. Gumby
& Scotty have been busy filming and editing some great stuff.
Here is a list of their new stuff:
Amazonas
Lutas de Casadas - Straight out the Jungle! Where else you going
to get footage like this? Great 9 fights unreal crowd. Jacare,
Fredson, Pe de Pano, Robson Moura, Ninja, Terere and more! $25
Amazonas 2002
3rd
Interestadual de Submission MG - One of Brazil's best & biggest
no gi event in Belo Horizonte, MG. There is not much to do in
Belo Horizonte so they train hard there. The big money brings
out the big names to test their skills before the Abu Dhabi trials.
Names like: Marcio Feitosa, Amaury Bitteti, Reinaldo Ribeiro,
Jamelão, Erik Wanderlei & OTM's own Erik Owings! $25
3rd Inter
Estadual
CBJJO
- World Cup of Jiu Jitsu - This tape features the best matches
from André Pederneiras's new event. Teams include Brazilian
Top Team, Nova Uniao, Allicane and more. Fighters include: Bruno
Bastos , Carlao Santos, Ricardo Vieira, Terere, Robson Moura,
Jamelao, and more...
CBJJO World
Cup
Plus
plenty of other good stuff in the OTM store, lots of highlight
footage, etc & check it all out and buy lots of stuff.
Source:
Kid Peligro/ADCC
A
Look At the 155 lbers in MMA (pt 1)
With
the recent loss by Jens Pulver tp Duane 'Bang' Ludwig causing
a shakeup in the 155 lbs. division, it is worth looking at several
of the up and comers in the weight division.
Most
fans and internet Top Ten lists consider the top figters at 155
lbs. to be BJ Penn, Caol Uno, Jens Pulver, Takanori Gomi crowding
the top of the list. After that, many mention Matt Serra, Din
Thomas, Dokonjonosuke Mishima, and Yves Edwards. With his recent
stunning performance, look for Duane Ludwig to be mentioned with
these fighters - and deservedly so!
Below
is a compilation of 'up and comers' who just may be on the verge
of cracking EVERYBODY's top 10!
Duane
'Bang' Ludwig: 'Bang' debuted for King of the Cage on 2/5/2000
and immediately made an impact! Four of his wins are by way of
KNOCKOUT and why this fighter has gone overlooked is crazy. He
has an overall record of 8-2 and hasn't had a loss in nearly
two years. We all know the name, it's now time to see his face
on the big show. His stand up is WAY OUT!
Vitor
'Shaolin' Ribeiro: You know it's coming and you know that's the
submission he wants, but can you defend it? Well, if you ask
the three fighters he's submitted, they would say no. Ribeiro's
arm triangle choke is lethal! A JJ World Champion known for his
discipline and technique, it is safe to say we have only scratched
the surface of what he can do! A 6-0 record with victories in
three respected organizations (Shooto, HOOKnSHOOT and WFA) has
many wondering why he's not higher in the top ten. His wrestling
skills are excellent and his BJJ skills are impeccable. 2003
should be his year!
Rich
Clementi: Although he has never been seen by a televised audience,
Clementi comes to fight. He is 9-4 but has an impressive six
straight wins. How about this fact: Clementi's nine victories
are ALL decisive (6 submissions and 3 KO's). Want another one?
Clementi fought his first match at a remarkable 220 lbs. At 155,
he has found his true fighting weight, adding conditioning to
his list of pluses. He definitely comes to fight and when he
wins, he leaves no questions. He officially gets his shot at
'big time' against Yves Edwards at the next UFC.
Hermes
Franca: Since debuting on 11/17/01 for HOOKnSHOOT, Franca has
became a fan favorite for many reasons. His quick finishes, exciting
and aggressive style, not to mention his patented smile and backflip
has made Franca a definite MMA prospect of the future. His 6-0
record boasts 6 submissions but says he wants a few more matches
before he thinks about UFC. The HOOKnSHOOT Champion at 145lbs
is gearing up to defend his title against the UK's Leigh Remedios
in Florida set for March.
Later
this week, we look at some other fighters in this division and
where they stand.
Source:
ADCC
ADCC's
BEST OF VOLUME 3 - on the Horizon!
Another special edition DVD is being produced by FIGHTWORLD.com.
It's
evident that interest in submission wrestling and ground-fighting
arts is STILL gaining in popularity. BEST OF ADDC #1 sold all
copes within 7 months of it's release.
The
next time around, nearly double the amount of DVD's were made
and in less than a year, the BEST OF ADCC #2 has less than 80
copies left for sale!
Still
shocked, after being named a finalist at the 2002 DV FILM AWARDS,
Fightworld and Excel DV are continuing production with more releases
in 2003.
Next
on the list is BEST OF ADCC #3. Get them while they last! 'We're
producing more than the last batch but they just seem to keep
selling' says Jeff Osborne (the video guru behind all of Fightworld's
productions).
'I
make it clear that it's a 'limited edition' DVD. Once, they're
gone, they're gone! It's funny to hear that people were selling
#1 for as much as $60 on the Net. The other factor is that we
already have the largest wholesale commitment for this DVD than
any previous titles' continues Osborne.
Wanna
buy a 2001 ADCC Seven DVD Set? Good luck! These disappeared within
just nine months after their release.
Fightworld
expects to expand their DVD releases this year with more USMMA,
HOOKnSHOOT, CageFighter Championships, ADCC titles and much more.
Here's
a sneak peak at the lineup for the BEST OF ADCC #3:
(1)
Fabiano Iha vs. Joe Hurley (1999)
(2) Mark Kerr vs. Josh Barnett (2000)
(3) Roleta vs. Rodrigo 'Cumprido' Medeiros (2000)
(4) Rumina Sato vs. Vitor 'Shaolin' Ribeiro (2000)
(5) Vitor Belfort vs. Genki Sudo (2001)
(6) Baret
Yoshida
vs. Wellington 'Megaton' Diaz (1999)
(7) Matt Hughes vs. Tito Ortiz (2000)
(8) Mario Sperry vs. Oleg Taktarov (1998)
(9) Jean-Jacques Machado vs. Ricardo Arona (2001)
(10) Rico Rodriguez vs. Rodrigo 'Minotauro' Noguiera (2000)
The
DVD is set for a March 2003 release date with a suggested retail
of $24.95.
Source:
ADCC
2/9/03
Quote
of the Day
"My
great concern is not whether you have failed, but whether you
are content with your failure."
Abraham Lincoln
Super
Brawl 28 Results
Blaisdell
Arena, Honolulu, Hawaii
February 8, 2003
by Chris Onzuka - Chris@Onzuka.com
The much anticipated "come out of retirement" fight
for Egan Inoue almost fell through when Shooto Champion Masanori
Suda broke his nose in his last fight and decided that he needed
more time to train for Inoue. Due to the fact that Inoue had
been training hard for a fight with Suda, a replacement was brought
in to fight Inoue. Yukiya Naito came down in weight in order
to step up to the challenge. Naito comes from the same gym as
Pride and KOTC veteran Akira Shoji and Shooto Champion, Caol
Uno. Inoue would be too much for the upstart dominating him for
both rounds. Inoue looks to have regained the fire for MMA or
maybe it is just his focused desire to acquire the Shooto belt.
The card was filled with local talent, spiced up with a couple
UFC veterans and a fighter from Eddy Millis' Shark Tank. The
evenly matched skill levels of the fighters were seen in the
number of fights that went to the score cards. The crowd loved
the return on The Chief Andre Roberts, even if he took out one
of the local fighters. This match was set up to introduce Roberts
to the Hawaii crowd and build anticipation for a match up with
local favorite Cabbage Correira. After his fight, Cabbage came
into the ring and they both agreed to fight each other. Niko
Vitale continued his streak of impressive victories by submitting
Andre's little brother Tyrone in under two minutes. It looks
like Hawaii has a number of fighters that are on the brink of
making the "big time."
167.5lbs
3x5 minute rounds
Deshaun Johnson 165lbs (HMC) 4-3
Def.
Andy Wang 165lbs (Grappling Unlimited) 2-4
Majority decision after 2 rounds [(28-28), (29-27), (29-28)].
Heavyweight
2x5 minute rounds
Andre "The Chief" Roberts 366lbs (Team Extreme) 10-1
Def.
Ray "King Kong" Seraille 260lbs (Grappling Unlimited)
1-2
Submission via neck crank at 2:49 minutes in Round 1.
167.5lbs
3x5 minute rounds
Ronald Jhun 170lbs (808 Fight Factory) 16-9-2
Def.
Mike Panalber 170lbs (Shark Tank)
Unanimous decision after 3 rounds [(30-27), (30-27), (30-27)].
185lbs
3x5 minute rounds
Falaniko Vitale 185lbs (Grappling Unlimited) 13-1
Def.
Tyrone Roberts 185lbs (Team Extreme) 15-3
Submission via toe hold at 1:26 minutes in Round 1.
Ralph
Gracie Academy Promotions
Ralph Gracie has just had a Black Day at his school. The Pitbull
promoted 5 of his students to the Black Belt level. The new graduates
are David Camarilo, Cameron Earle, Crosley Gracie, Kurt Ociander
& Sapao. According to OntheMat's Gumby they are all going
out celebrating tonight! The Bay area will never be the same
after this.
Needless
to say it was a long time coming for these five. Now their school
has 8 Black Belts training (Batata and VanDamme) making it one
of America's strongest!
Kid
Peligro wants to send a big congrats to Ralph and his students
for the enormous occasion!
Source: ADCC/Kid Peligro
The
Brazilian Beat:
Chute Boxe
Training Madness;
Belfort Training for June;
PRIDE Fighters Getting Ready; & RN Vale Tudo News
By Eduardo Alonso
February
started with plenty of training action in Brazil. With UFC 41
and PRIDE 25 approaching, fighters such as Pedro Rizzo are preparing
hard for scheduled fights, while others like PRIDE contenders
Mario Sperry and Murilo Ninja continue to train looking for a
shot at the upcoming PRIDE show. As training is still one of
the main subjects of this edition of the Brazilian Beat, the
Chute Boxe training camp is getting as hardcore as ever, with
fighters literally missing the good times when they were on tough
battles in NHB events, and Vitor Belfort getting ready for a
upcoming June fight in the UFC. Well, training is never enough
for a fight fan; therefore we also bring you news and results
from RN Vale Tudo, a new small show in Brazil, as well as tidbits
from other shows and news from Brazil! Enjoy your weekend and
take a taste of Brazilian news, as Full Contact Fighter raises
the volume, feels the groove and joins the beat!
Vitor Belfort wasn't allowed by the doctors to perform at UFC
42, since his knee isn't ready yet for a professional fight after
the surgery. However, Belfort told FCF that he is training well
and it's only a matter of time since he will be ready to perform
in the octagon once again. "The Phenom" also said he
will be likely fighting in the UFC in June, and he will have
some great news to announce in March of 2003! Stay tuned!
UFC
Heavyweight contender Pedro Rizzo is ready and anxious to face
Vladdy Matyushenko at UFC 41. Rizzo told FCF he trained a lot
standing up with K-1 fighter Peter Aerts, who left Brazil after
training with Rizzo for around two weeks last Monday, and his
hands are now sharp again. "The Rock" told us he would
do sparring sessions with Aerts two times a day, for around 7
rounds of Muay Thai each. Pedro is already weighing 103 kg, and
feels he is in the best shape he has been in a long time. This
time the Ruas Vale Tudo fighter will leave for the USA just one
week before the fight.
PRIDE
fighter and grappling legend Mario Sperry is now practically
100% healed from the broken hand suffered at his win over Andrei
Kopylov back at PRIDE 22. Sperry told FCF he is already punching
with confidence again, despite some minor pain that still exists,
and has been training very hard looking for a shot at PRIDE 25,
where he plans to compete.
PRIDE
Middleweight champion Wanderlei Silva is now slowly and gradually
resuming his training after his serious knee surgery suffered
in the end of 2002. Silva is now walking and moving without any
problems at all, and has started to do some training in the mirror,
getting himself ready to resume his full training routine in
the coming weeks. "The Axe Murderer" is continuing
to work on a series of projects in the meantime, and told FCF
he delayed his seminars because he is preparing and designing
a complete new seminar experience for the fans. Let's wait and
see!
Speaking
of Chute Boxe fighters, PRIDE contender Murilo Ninja Rua is completely
recovered from the swollen and cut eye suffered against Kevin
Randleman at PRIDE 24. Ninja submitted himself to a series of
exams due to PRIDE's request and none of them showed any problems.
The young Brazilian fighter is already training hard again and
waiting for his next fight, while on the meantime planning to
do seminars in the USA.
Brazilian
Top Team member Hudson Rocha didn't exactly broke his hand at
the Brazilian ADCC trials as was reported by all the media. Hudson's
bone amazingly went out of his hand's skin, but without being
broke! This is a totally bizarre situation, however Hudson is
recovering now and according to his trainers won't miss his Hook
N' Shoot appearance in the upcoming show.
UFC,
PRIDE, IVC and MECA veteran Carlos Barreto had to give up on
fighting the Second Submission Wrestling in Campos superfight
against Alexandre Cacareco. Barreto decided to withdraw from
the event due to his K-1 Brazil appearance in the 23rd of February,
since he has training so hard for it that it would be too risky
to risk an injury so near the competition. Reports have that
Eduardo Jamealo will replace Barreto in the superfight of the
event that is taking place right now in Campos. FCF will report
the results in the coming days.
RN
Vale Tudo, the small show put on by promoter Conrado, who also
promotes Bitetti Combat, took place this last week and was a
success! The show happened in the small city of Caico, on Brazil's
northeast and served as a minor league for Bitetti Combat, helping
new fighting talent of the Brazilian northeast to have a chance
to appear. The card was full of local talent, what pleased the
fans in the audience and the action itself didn't disappoint.
On the most interesting fights of the card, Wallace [From Kimura,
who is a Chute Boxe black belt from Rafael Cordeiro, however
doesn't train at Chute Boxe anymore] demolished Fabiano, a local
fighter from Caico. Dinarte took quick work of Tortinho. Sergio
Capoeira, well known in the Northeast Jiu Jitsu circles, made
his NHB debut beating Loca, a Mario Sucata student. The main
event featured experienced fighter Aranha, who is from Caico,
against Indio. Both guys won their fights at the last Bitetti
Combat Nordeste and although Aranha won the fight on a judges'
decision, Indio surprised the fans putting up a great performance
in an exciting fight. Now all the efforts will be concentrated
on the next Bitetti Combat scheduled to the end of March, and
FCF is continuing to bring you all NHB action from around the
world, no matter where!
Full
Contact Fighter is truly everywhere and this last Friday FCF
writer Eduardo Alonso, who happens to be writing this article,
was a guest commentator at Premiere Combat/Sportv channel. The
show featured a collection of Tito Ortiz's fights, and served
as an opportunity to talk a bit about FCF's work and the international
fans' view of the Brazilian fighters. It'll likely be aired in
a month or so, and hopefully one day we will have more channels
and TV shows devoted to NHB.
The
training at the Chute Boxe academy is now more intense than ever!
Due to a decision from Chute Boxe team coach Rudimar Fedrigo
the training sessions now became even more hardcore, with the
fighters training everyday with NHB gloves on, and giving their
all in the sparring sessions! Things have been tough as the Evangelic
Hospital in Curitiba is reported to have been receiving one new
guest per week, courtesy of the Chute Boxe training. Anderson
Silva took some stitches on the eyebrow, Young fighter Jadson
[who lost to Cristiano Marcelo at MECA 7 and then decided to
apply to join Chute Boxe] suffered convulsions and now Fabio
Piemonte is spending a week in the Hospital as a result of a
training session. Mr. Fedrigo told FCF he will now be receiving
some protection equipment and then he wants the training to get
even tougher! As always, everybody is invited to come and train
at the academy.
Source: FCF
Gable
is Interim FS Resident Coach
Dan
Gable named Interim Head Resident Freestyle Coach for USA Wrestling
Wrestling
legend Dan Gable of Iowa City, Iowa has been named as Interim
Head Resident Freestyle Coach for USA Wrestling, announced USA
Wrestling Executive Director Rich Bender.
Gable
will coach the men's freestyle athletes who participate in the
U.S. Olympic Training Center (USOTC) resident athlete program
in Colorado Springs, Colo. He will also coach the many U.S. freestyle
wrestlers who come to Colorado Springs from across the nation
to train on a short-term basis.
The Resident Freestyle Coach position became vacant when Lincoln
McIlravy, who served in the post for over one year, resigned
his position in order to return to competition as an athlete.
McIlravy will stay on with the program as a resident athlete.
'This
is a great day for USA Wrestling,' said Executive Director Rich
Bender. 'We are extremely fortunate to have somebody with Dan's
proven success agree to lead this very important program though
this transition. I am excited for USA Wrestling, and especially
our resident athletes, who will have the opportunity to work
and train with a true legend.'
Gable
was a World and Olympic champion as an athlete, considered one
of the greatest competitors in American history. As a coach,
Gable was a record-setting college coach, and has served as head
coach of three U.S. Olympic teams.
'I have never been very far away from our national organization
over the last 30 years,' said Gable. 'This will enhance my ability
to know the sport that much more. Much of my time now is away
from the mat. I believe I will now understand how things take
place and it will help me in my efforts to solve some of wrestling's
issues.'
'This
is a crucial time, to make sure wrestling in general has the
best opportunity for the future. I feel that I can also bring
some positive attention to USA Wrestling and the U.S. Olympic
Committee. The bottom line is that USA Wrestling needs somebody
right now, and I am a person that can meet those needs as well
as anyone,' he said.
Gable
currently works as an Assistant to the Director for the University
of Iowa Athletic Department, and will remain in that position.
He will periodically come to Colorado Springs and live at the
U.S. Olympic Training Center during the period that he serves
as the Interim Head Resident Freestyle Coach. Gable will work
directly with USA Wrestling's talented National Coaching staff,
including National Freestyle Coach Kevin Jackson and Freestyle
Developmental Coach Dave Bennett.
'Dan
Gable is a wrestling icon and an Olympic legend, and we proudly
welcome him to the U.S. Olympic Complex,' said Lloyd Ward, Chief
Executive Officer of the U.S. Olympic Committee. 'His passion,
intensity and energy for the sport of wrestling will have a significant
impact on all of our Olympic wrestlers. I applaud Dan and USA
Wrestling for making this commitment to help our athletes and
prepare them for even greater success.'
He
served as head coach of the 1980, 1984 and 2000 U.S. Olympic
freestyle wrestling teams. The 1980 team was unable to participate
in the Moscow Olympics due to the U.S. boycott of the Games.
The 1984 U.S. Olympic team dominated the Games, winning seven
gold medals and two silver medals. The 2000 Olympic team, which
Gable coached with co-head coaches John Smith and Greg Strobel,
won four medals including one gold medalist.
Gable
also served as the head coach of six U.S. World teams (1977,
1978, 1979, 1983, 1994, 1999). He was the head coach of the 1986
U.S. Goodwill Games team. Gable will serve as the head coach
of the 2003 U.S. World Cup team, his 11th assignment as a World
Cup head coach.
He
is considered the most successful college coach of all time,
setting numerous career records as the head coach for the Univ.
of Iowa. His Iowa teams won 15 NCAA team titles during his 21-year
career, including an amazing steak of nine in a row from 1978-86.
He retired from college coaching after winning the 1997 NCAA
team title, with a record number of team points.
Gable was a 1972 Olympic gold medalist and 1971 World champion
as an athlete, as well as a two-time NCAA champion for Iowa State
Univ. Gable originally hails from Waterloo, Iowa.
During
the time that Dan Gable is serving as Interim Head Resident Freestyle
Coach, USA Wrestling will conduct a national search for a full-time
coach to serve in the position. USA Wrestling hopes to name a
new Resident Freestyle Coach this spring.
Source: Gary Abbott
UFC's
Lightweight Contender DIN THOMAS (PT 1)
by: Keith Mills
In the ADCC News archives of May 31st and June 1st, Din Thomas
spoke at length about his career up to that point, and the recovery
from his surgery. Now after a rematch loss to Caol Uno in UFC
39, Thomas, the perpetually ranked top 5 Lightweight fighter,
talks about his upcoming fight in UFC 41 against Matt Serra.
KM:
How are things going down there? DT: Everything is great.
KM:
Are you going to be training right up until the end or stopping
a couple weeks out? DT: I’m pretty going to keep my rhythm.
KM:
Do you feel prepared? DT: Yeah, I feel very prepared.
KM:
How do you feel about this next fight? DT: I’m just glad
to have another opportunity. I haven’t had the best luck
in the UFC, we know that. I haven’t really had a good fight
to really show myself and I’m looking to do that this time.
I want to show the world what I got.
KM:
What are your thoughts on Serra? DT: He’s good; good ground
game, seemed to look good against BJ, pressed the fight. I have
my hands full.
KM:
He has a reputation for being very fast and very fluid but mainly
BJJ. Does this worry you at all? DT: Not really. Honestly, I
have the best BJJ guys in the world. Of course I could get caught,
anybody can get caught on any given day, but he’s not going
to trick me into anything. I got world champions that I’m
training with now in jiu-jitsu so it’s not like he’s
going to do anything to me that I’ve never seen before.
KM:
Yeah, you’ve been training with the American Top Team for
about a year now? DT: Yeah, about a year.
KM:
How accurate a perspective do you think it would be if I took
an approach like ‘American Top Team against Team Renzo Gracie’?
Serra deviates enough from what we usually see from Team Renzo
fighters that it may not be accurate. You’re not exactly
a typical American Top Team fighter either. DT: It’s kind
of weird. I’m going to represent American Top Team regardless.
I didn’t really come from the same background as a lot of
the guys on the team and they kind of adopted me and embraced
me as one of their own so I’m going to represent them. Matt
is from Renzo’s so I’m assuming he’s going to
take on his name as well, so if you want to call it American
Top Team against Renzo call it that and we’re going to see
what prevails. I think they called us out a little while ago
anyway and we’re going to see who’s got the better
team.
KM:
It seems like most of the people in the UFC at 155 have been
mostly a grappling background and in that sense you have the
reputation of being one of the stronger strikers in the 155 field
right now but in the last couple of months we’ve seen more
strikers coming down to 155 with Duane defeating Pulver or even
Joe Stevenson dropping down. What do you think of the 155 division
from that perspective? DT: I’ve always said it; I think
the 155 lb division is the most competitive division. I think
the guys are the most complete guys. With all these strikers
we’re going to see a lot more grappling from me. (Both laugh)
I’ve always been known as a striker but I think I can hold
my own on the mat too. Going against a striker you may see a
lot more ground work from me.
KM:
One thing I’m looking forward to with this diversification
of the weight class is see how you would do against someone who
won’t keep it down, someone you can show something more
against. DT: That’s why I think this is a really good opportunity
for me and Matt because he is the type of guy who likes to go
out and give it 100% regardless of the outcome and I’m the
same way. It kind of sucks that we’re put in this position
because we just want to put on a good fight, we don’t care
if we win or lose. It sucks for us because the UFC put us in
a position where we kind of have to win or we have to go home
and watch from tv. I just hope Matt doesn’t say ‘I
have to win, I’m going to be a little more conservative’
because I’m not going to try to do that. Regardless I’m
going to try to put on a good fight.
KM:
How much more pressure does that put on with that perspective
of win or go home? DT: It’s never really going to put a
lot of pressure on me in that sense. In the back of my mind I
kind of still sense it but still there are other opportunities
out there for me to fight if I lose but I really don’t think
I’m going to lose. Even if, I just like to fight. If I have
to fight in HOOKnSHOOT to build myself back up that’s what
I’m going to do. I don’t try to look at the pressure,
I never doubt myself or doubt my skills because of pressure.
I don’t look at it like that.
UFC
41 takes place in Atlantic City, New Jersey on February 28th.
For more information on Din Thomas check out www.dinthomas.com.
Source: ADCC
Martial
Arts Action Movie Personality
Stephanie Cheeva to be Inducted into
International Martial Arts Hall of Fame
February
7, 2003, It was announced today that Martial Arts Action Movie
star Stephanie Cheeva has been chosen by the Hawaii Martial Arts
International
Society to be inducted into the HMAIS "International Martial
Arts Hall of Fame", Stephanie Cheeva , to her credit she
is a 21 Gold Medalist, the titles of World Champion 1995, two
time European Champion '92/'93, She is an eight time Bulgarian
National Champion (1989 through 1995). She has starred in such
movies as "Blood Justice" "Last Call", "The
Ultimate Game" and "The Fine Art of Persuasion"
as well as popular television shows "Nash Bridges",
"Martial Law", "VIP" and "Crossing Jordan".
She
will be in attendence with such notables as legendary Ultimate
Fighting Championships "UFC" Competitor Dan "the
Beast" Severn, Sifu Lamar Davis II head of the World Combative
Martial Arts Federation and authority on the art of Jeet Kune
Do, Grandmaster Frank Demaria head of the "American Center
for Chinese Studies" and first organization to be directly
associated with the
Shaolin Temple in North America, Neil Antin of the "Fight
Channel", Steve Alley of "Martial Arts Radio"
and many others that will be honored at this extravaganza.
"We
at the Hawaii Martial Arts International Society are honored
to have the opportunity to place Stephanie Cheeva among our prestigious
Hall of Fame Inductee's, she is definitely a person worthy of
such an honor", Stated HMAIS Chairman Professor Jaime Abregana
Jr.
The
Hawaii Martial Arts International Society 2003 4th Annual Hall
of Fame Awards Banquet , you'll see the new inductions into the
"International Martial Arts Hall of Fame" take place,
it will be a who's who in martial arts event. This is part of
an action packed weekend of events including the ever popular
Legends & Masters Seminar, where you can learn from the most
accomplished Pioneers, Grand Masters and Masters around today,
also to top off this incredible weekend is an Open martial arts
tournament entitled the "International Martial Arts Classic"
this all takes place in Las Vegas Nevada , USA July 12 &
13, 2003 at the Sahara Hotel & Casino.
Prof.
Jaime Abregana Jr.
Hawaii Martial Arts International Society
P.O. Box 2106
Ewa Beach, HI 96706 - USA
(808) 271-0225
2/8/03
Quote
of the Day
"My
great concern is not whether you have failed, but whether you
are content with your failure."
Abraham Lincoln
Media
Alert!
Super Brawl
Shown Live World Wide!
For the first time in history an MMA show will be shown live
and uncut over the internet with a quality rivaling television!
On
Saturday, February 8, thousand of fans will pack the Blaisdell
Arena in Honolulu, Hawaii to witness 9 powerhouse bouts. You
can pull up a ringside seat live, via www.superbrawltv.com and
join them.
All
this for just $7.95! Logon to www.superbrawltv.com Not only will you
get to watch the live netcast, you can also watch the event “on
demand” for the next 30 days! As well as dozens of hours
of past Super Brawl fights including fighters like, Frank Shamrock,
Pat Miletich, Josh Barnett, Heath Herring, Ricco Rodrigues, Ring
Girls and much, much more!
That’s
right…..All this for just $7.95! And the quality is outstanding!
“I was amazed! I hooked my desktop up to my bigscreen and
watched it like any other pay-per-view.” Super Brawl fan
Andrew Riehle after watching the Super Brawl 26 delayed netcast.
Live
Showtimes:
Hawaii/Maui
(Blacked out on Oahu) -Saturday 7:45pm
Los
Angeles- Saturday 10:45pm
Chicago-
Sunday 12:45am
New
York- Sunday 1:45am
London-Sunday
5:45am
Cairo-Sunday
7:45am
Moscow-
8:45am
Tokyo-Sunday
2:45pm
Melbourne- Sunday 3:45pm
Source: T. Jay Thompson
Super
Brawl 28 Weigh Ins
Super Brawl 28 Is Tonight!
24-Hour
Fitness Kapiolani
Honolulu, Hawaii
1:30 PM
By Michael Onzuka Mike@onzuka.com
Just
when you think things are going great, Murphy steps in. In a
last minute training session, local upstart Kolo Koka hurt his
knee in a freak heel hook accident and had to pull out of the
event against Mark Moreno. I thought that was the fight of the
card, two guys that like to bang. Promoter, T. Jay Thompson,
is currently looking for a replacement for Koka, but was unable
to find one at weigh in time. Also, there was a swap of fighters
in the first match. Tripston Kerisiano will take teammate, Nassor
Lewis' place against submission grappling based Brandon Keen.
Other than that, the fight card remains intact as advertised.
Another
interesting match up will be the return of Andy Wang who has
lived in Hawaii for a while and is currently living in California
and training with RAW. He showed major heart after taking a terrible
amount of punishment from Tsuruya in his last Super Brawl appearance.
Wang hopes to turn things around as he faces Deshaun "the
best dressed MMA fighter since Shonie Carter" Johnson. Johnson
is known as a stand up artist, but has been brushing up with
his ground work as of late. If Deshawn can keep this fight standing,
it may be very interesting.
Andre
"The Chief" Roberts returns to action from a layoff
from late 1999, a month after he had his UFC 21 war with Ron
Waterman. Roberts is as big as they get and it shall be seen
if experience will defeat youth as he faces a young and hungry
upstart by the name of King Kong Seraille. Ron Jhun will try
to continue to test the waters at a ripped 170 lbs after an exciting
fight with Shonie Carter that ended in a draw. UFC veteran Tyrone
Roberts accompanies his brother in the fight card taking on a
local fighter that seems ready for the big show, Falaniko Vitale.
Vitale is a well put together specimen and will be challenged
by a veteran fighter in Tyrone Roberts.
Finally,
Egan Inoue stated that he will only fight again if he can face
the champion in Shooto. Inoue got really close, but Suda broke
his nose in his last fight and wanted more time to prepare. Since
Egan was already in shape, Egan agreed to take on Japanese upstart,
Yukiya Naito from the A3 gym, who will attempt to make a major
leap in the Shooto rankings if he pulls off the upset. One fight
is left between inoue and his shot at a Shooto Champion. As the
biggest draw of any MMA fighter in Hawaii, Egan knows that he
will have the entire crowd on his side to cheer him to victory,
but also knows that a loss may scrap his long laid plans on the
road to the championship. Bone up on the blow by blow results
in the next issue of Full Contact Fighter!
There
are still tickets left so do not miss this evenly matched up
card!
155 lbs 2x5 minute rounds
Jay R. Palmer Fashionably late as usual (no weight) (Universal
Rough Houzers) 22-20
vs.
Harris Sarriento 155lbs (808 Fight Factory) 2-3
145
lbs 2x5 minute rounds
Dain Agbayani 146.2 lbs (at time of weigh in) (808 Fight Factory)
2-3
vs.
Justin Mercado 142 lbs (Grappling Unlimited) 1-1
165
lbs 2x5 minute rounds
Deshaun Johnson 160 lbs (HMC) 3-3
vs.
Andy Wang 164 lbs (Grappling Unlimited) 2-3
170
lbs 2x5 minute rounds
Mark Moreno 171 lbs (Bull's Pen) 3-1-1
vs.
TBA
Heavyweight
2x5 minute rounds
Andre "The Chief" Roberts 368 lbs (Team Extreme) 11-1
vs.
Ray "King Kong" Seraille 262 lbs (Grappling Unlimited)1-1
170
lbs 2x5 minute rounds
Mike Panalber 169.2 lbs (Shark Tank)
vs.
Ronald Jhun 170.8 lbs (at time of weigh in) (808 Fight Factory)
15-9-2
185lbs
3x5 minute rounds
Tyrone Roberts 184 lbs (Team Extreme) 15-2
vs.
Falaniko Vitale 184.8 lbs (Grappling Unlimited) 12-1
Alessio
Out, Vasconcelos In of KOTC Feb 21
Due to an injury suffered in his UCC12 loss to Jason Black, John
Alessio has been forced to pull out of his February 21 King of
The Cage bout against Shonie Carter. Replacing Alessio against
"Mr. International" is the rAw Team's Fernando Vasconcelos.
Source: Maxfighting
UFC
41 Card Complete
The Rich Clementi vs Yves Edwards matchup reported on January
28th has been officially released as the 8th spot for UFC 41:
Onslaught. The complete card is now:
Ricco
Rodriguez vs Tim Sylvia
Tank
Abbott vs Frank Mir
Phil
Baroni vs Matt Lindland
BJ
Penn vs
Caol Uno
Vladimir
Matyushenko vs Pedro Rizzo
Gan
McGee vs "Cafe" Dantas
Matt
Serra vs Din Thomas
Rich
Clementi vs Yves Edwards
LAS
VEGAS, February 4, 2003…Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC)
Lightweight top contenders Matt Serra and Din Thomas will clash
after Lightweight Yves Edwards battles Rich Clementi at UFC 41:
Onslaught live on pay-per-view at 10 p.m. EST/7 p.m. PST, Friday,
February 28, from Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J.
An
eight-fight card also will feature the long-awaited BJ Penn versus Caol Uno fight
for the lightweight championship, the return of legendary Heavyweight
Tank Abbott, who will meet jiu-jitsu submission specialist Frank
Mir, and the first title defense by new UFC Heavyweight Champion
Ricco Rodriguez against undefeated contender Tim Sylvia.
Live
event tickets, $300, $200, $100, $60 and $30, continue on sale
at the Boardwalk Hall box office in Atlantic City, at all Ticketmaster
locations and at www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets also may be ordered
by telephone at 1-800-736-1420. Trump Plaza Hotel & Casino,
Trump Marina and Trump Taj Mahal are the hosts of the event.
UFC
41: Onslaught will be available live on pay-per-view on iN DEMAND,
DIRECTV, Dish Network, Bell ExpressVu and Viewers Choice Canada.
The suggested retail price is $29.95.
Serra
(11-2-0 in mixed martial arts) of Long Island, N.Y., is a Brazilian
jiu-jitsu black belt trained by Renzo Gracie. He combines superb
ground skills, including wrestling take downs and submissions,
with an ever-improving stand-up game to push the action in all
his fights. Serra and Thomas had been scheduled to fight each
other last March in Las Vegas, but Thomas injured a knee in training.
“Din is a tough fighter and has really improved since he’s
been training with the American Top Team. We are going to have
a very exciting fight,” Serra said.
Thomas
(16-3-0) of Orlando, Fla., also utilizes jiu-jitsu submission
techniques and a stand-up striking game to dominate opponents.
With a like-new knee, Thomas readily admits his quality of training
is greatly improved since joining ATT, the U.S. extension of
the Brazilian Top Team. “The competition is very tough,
even for an experienced, professional fighter. This kind of training
will prepare me for Matt, who is really disciplined,” Thomas
said.
Edwards
(10-5-1) from The Woodlands, Tex., a suburb of Houston, is a
Thai boxing-jiu jitsu fighter who is continuing to hone his boxing
skills. In his last UFC fight, June 22 at UFC 37.5 in Las Vegas,
he knocked out Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt Joao “Perini”
Marcos at 1:19 of the first round with a kick to the head. Edwards
works with Kenny Weldon, the boxing trainer who helped build
former heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield’s career.
Clementi
is a free-style fighter from Slidell, La., who will be making
his UFC debut against Edwards. He has earned a 22-5-0 record
in mixed martial arts fighting and has won eight consecutive
fights. “Yves will be a great opponent for my UFC debut
because I will have to utilize all my weapons to beat him. I
feel my standup game is equal to his, but my ground game is superior.
I am really looking forward to fighting him,” Clementi said.
Rodriguez
(10-1-0), a Staten Island, N.Y. native, who now fights out of
Las Vegas, has won 10 straight fights and captured the heavyweight
crown from two-time former champ Randy Couture September 17 at
the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. Sylvia (16-0-0), a
native of Ellsworth, Maine, who fights out of Davenport, Iowa,
is 6’8”, 260 pounds and his height and reach advantage
helped him win a second round technical knockout September 27
over “Cabbage” Correira at the Mohegan Sun.
Tank
(8-7-0) from Huntington Beach, Calif., says he is returning to
do what he does best, “knock people out.” In Mir (4-1-0)
of Las Vegas, he will be facing one of the UFC’s most promising
young heavyweights. Penn (6-1-0) from Hilo,
Hawaii, and Uno (13-4-2) of Kanagawa, Japan, earned the right
to meet for the lightweight title with unanimous decision victories
over Serra and Thomas respectively September 27 at the Mohegan
Sun.
Source: Sherdog
HAWAII
MARTIAL ARTS INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY
TOURNAMENT PROMOTIONS PRESS RELEASE # 1
HMAISociety
2003-2004
TOURNAMENTS & SANCTIONING
WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFYING TOURNAMENTS
FOR
IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
The
Hawaii Martial Arts International Society, along with Prof. Jaime
Abregana Jr. (Pres.), and the Board of Directors for the HMAISociety,
are proud to present, the opening of our 2003-2004 Tournament
Season, and the 2003-2004 HMAIS World Championship Tour.
This
years events (2003-2004 Season), will consist of State, Regional,
or International Conference, martial arts tournament qualifiers,
along with our HMAISociety World Championships Tournament.
Our
purpose is to promote “Martial Arts Sporting” competitions
that are both “Sanctioned and Rated” by the HMAISociety.
During our 2003-2004 competition year, each “COMPETITOR”
(Who is a member of the HMAISociety, and who competes in our
“HMAISociety Sanctioned & Rated” events), will;
Accumulate
“Division Points” per tournament placing or win.
Will compete for “Seeded Placements”, in our upcoming
HMAISociety Tournament Conference events.
Will strive to achieve “HMAISociety World Champion”
status in their respective divisions, at the end of our tournament
season.
At
the completion of our tournament season, the HMAISociety will
honor our very best competitors with our coveted “HMAISociety
World Champion’ awards, at our Annual HMAISociety Awards
Banquet.
We
are currently seeking Tournament Promoters, throughout the world
that would like to have their respective tournaments “Sanctioned
and Rated” by the HMAISociety.
Should
you wish to join the HMAISociety, and / or wish to have your
event “Sanctioned and Rated” by the HMAIS Sanctioning
Committee, we would be most interested in talking to you.
Our
Martial Arts Sporting Competitions will consist of the following;
Open
Martial Arts (Karate, Kung Fu, Tae Kwon Do, etc…)
Mixed Martial Arts “Team” (Pankration, Sports Jiu Jitsu,
Sambo, Judo, Greco-Roman, etc…)
Filipino
Stick Fighting and Sayaw (Forms)
Our
first tournament of the 2003-2004 season, will be our “HMAISociety
Presidents Tournament”, which will be held at the luxurious
Sahara Hotel and Casino, in Las Vegas Nevada, on July 13th, 2003.
This
tournament event, along with our 4th Annual HMAISociety Hall
of Fame Awards Banquet, and our Legends & Masters Seminars
on July 12th 2003, will make a great, “Martial Arts Get-A-Way-Vacation
Weekend”.
For
the “Presidents Tournament” registration information,
our Hall of Fame Awards Banquet, or our Legends and Masters Seminars
events, go to our HMAISociety website at www.hmaisociety.com.
For
membership in the HMAISociety , you may go online and register
with us, in our “Membership” section.
Should
you wish to become a Representative of the HMAISociety in your
area, or you would like to be considered as a Conference, Regional,
State, or International Director for the HMAISociety, please
contact;
[Middleweight(165.7lbs.~
under 181lbs.)]
the 3rd Middleweight K.O.P. Nathan Marquardt (U.S.A./Colorado
Stars)
#1 Izuru Takeuchi (SK Absolute)
#2 Kiuma Kunioku (PANCRASEism)
#3 Kazuo Misaki (Pancrase GRABAKA) *UP from #4
#4 Chris Lytle (U.S.A./I.F. Academy) *DOWN from #3
#5 Yuji Hoshino (Wajutsu Keishukai GODS)
#6 Shonie Carter (U.S.A./AIKI Training Hall)
#7 Daiju Takase (Wajutsu Keishukai Tokyo Hombu)
#8 Takafumi Ito (PANCRASEism)
#9 Kosei Kubota (PANCRASEism)
[Welterweight(152.5lbs.~
under 165.7lbs.)]
the 1st Welterweight K.O.P. Kiuma Kunioku (PANCRASEism)
#1 Takafumi Ito (PANCRASEism)
#2 Koji Oishi (PANCRASEism)
#3 Kenichi Serizawa (RJW/CENTRAL) *UP from #4
#4 Hiroki Nagaoka (Rodeo Style) *DOWN from #3
#5 Satoru Kitaoka (PANCRASEism) *IN!
[Lightweight(141.4lbs.~
under 152.5lbs.)] VACANT
[Featherweight(under
141.4lbs.)] VACANT
Source: Mr. Oitate, Pancrase
The
Top 5 Best of 2002 Part 3/5
Arnold "The Sushiboy" Lim
Part two is
a goner and Part 4 is just around the corner. Here we kick it
off with part 3 of 5 starting with the top 5 “Fights”
of the year and the Top 5 Rivalries of 2002
Top 5 “FIGHTS”
of the year
#
5 - Steve Vigneault defeats Jeromie Sills
UCC 10 “Battle for the Belts” June 15th 2002
Compared by many to a be a condensed Lawler Vs Riley battle,
both Vigneault and Sills came with their banging shoes on. Both
fighters hurt each other. Both fighters dished out and took punishment
that would have felled lesser hearts. Both fighters put it all
on the line. See this fight.
#
5 – Rodrigo Nogueira Vs Dan Henderson
Pride 24 “Cold Fury III” Dec 23rd 2002
Three words, Heart, Heart and Heart. Nogueira reportedly came
in very ill for the fight and Henderson took the fight on less
then Two weeks notice. Two weeks to fight the best fighter in
the sport is cutting it tight. Dan Henderson will be remembered
for the effort he put in on this night as he should be, and his
gumby like rubber arm will be enshrined in the MMA hall of fame
when he is retired.
#
3 - Rodrigo Nogueira defeats Bob Sapp
Pride “Shockwave” Aug 28th 2002
David Vs Goliath + Man Vs Monster + Speed Vs Strength = Nogueira
Vs Sapp
#
2 - Robbie Lawler defeats Aaron Riley
UFC 37”High Impact” May 10th 2002
Everything that needs to be said about this Great fight has already
been said. I will leave it at that.
#
1 - Mario Sperry Vs Murilo Rua
Pride 20 “Armed and Ready” April 20th 2002
This was Ninja’s coming of age fight in the Pride fighting
organization. His relentless never stop, never give up attitude
is what made this fight, that coupled with the heart of a lion
on the part of Mario Sperry was enough to make this my personal
favorite fight from the past year.
Honorable
mention
Carlos
Newton Vs Pele Landi Jons
Pride 19 “Bad Blood” Feb 24th 2002
This was another fight that went back and forth, both fighters
had their opportunities but only one capitalized on it. Carlos
Newton took a vicious knee to the teeth that his dentist felt
back home in Canada, and still came back to win.
Joe
Doerkson Vs Dennis Kang
UCC 11 “The Next Level” Oct 11th 2002
Not too many people got to see this battle but those who did
were impressed with what they saw. Both fighters were knocked
down at one point in the fight and this back and forth affair
packed enough action in less then one round to make it close
to getting to the top of the top fights of the year.
Top
5 rivalry’s of 2002
#5
– Chute Boxe Vs Top Team II - Murilo Rua Vs Ricardo Arona
Pride 23 “Championship Chaos” Nov 24th 2002
Not on the same level in terms of entertainment compared with
Rua Vs Sperry but this fight was spiked with an even darker poisonous
smack. Both fighters publically insulted and ridiculed each other.
Promising lesson’s in respect and honor both fighters fought
the tough fight and settled it in the ring.
#
4 – Don Frye Vs Ken Shamrock
Pride 19 “Bad Blood” Feb 24th 2002
Ken Shamrock seems to be in all the heated rivalries and this
one was no different. Don Frye Vs Ken Shamrock was one of the
most anticipated bouts of the year for all us old schoolers who
had followed their careers for years. This fight was the headliner
for “Bad Blood” and I couldn’t think of a more
adequate name for the event.
#
3 – Chute Boxe Vs Top Team I - Murilo Rua Vs Mario Sperry
Pride 20 “Armed and Ready” April 20th 2002
I don’t need to tell you what I thought of this fight. It
was a fight for the ages and the first time the two rival clubs
had clashed in the Pride arena. This fight had everything a fight
would need. The Rivalry between the two clubs ended with Nogueira
publically weeping after the Sperry’s loss.
#
2 - Dennis Hallman over “Mad Dog” Hughes
MFC 3 “Canadian Pride” March 3rd 2002
The rear naked choke that Dennis Hallman slapped on Hughes ended
the bitter words both fighters had exchanged. Both fighters had
promised impressive victories. In Fact Hallman promised to take
Hughes truck, family car, dog and his girlfriend. In the end
he did take something that belonged to Hughes and that was his
fighting shorts. To the surprise of Hughes, Hallman ripped them
off his midsection after he won the fight!!!
#1
– Ken Shamrock Vs Tito Ortiz
UFC 40 “Vendetta” Nov 22nd 2002
Years of smack talk and verbal abuse came to a head on Nov of
2002. Both fighters had to be watched carefully as the preflight
hoopla played out but was it really just hoopla? The bitter verbal
battles had been played out and all that was left was the battle
itself. Was the battle a product of the rivalry or the rivalry
the product of a battle? You decide.
Honorable
Mention
Phil
Baroni Vs Matt Lindland
Josh Barnett Vs Nevada State Athletics commission
Osama Bin Ladin Vs George Bush
That
was it for part three. Be sure to check back as we come back
at you with part four of five which will look at more of the
best of 2002. If you have agree or disagree with any of my picks
don’t be shy, Yell Holler and let me know about it.Flame
away, for MMARingreport this was “The Sushiboy”.
Source: MMA Ring Report
2/7/03
Quote
of the Day
"Flatter
me, and I may not believe you. Criticize me, and I may not like
you. Ignore me, and I may not forgive you. Encourage me, and
I may not forget you."
William
Arthur
Super
Brawl 28 Weigh-In and Press Conference Today
24-Hour Fitness Kapiolani
1:00 PM
Super
Brawl 28
Saturday, February 8, 2003
Neil Blaisdell Center
Fights start at 7:30 PM
170lbs
2x5 minute rounds
Nassor Lewis (808 Fight Factory) 3-3
vs.
Brandon Keen 170lbs (Grappling Unlimited) 1-0
161lbs 2x5 minute rounds
Jay R. Palmer 155lbs (Rough Houzers) 22-20
vs.
Harris Sarriento 155lbs (808 Fight Factory) 1-3
Matt
Hume made his return to MMA competition after a 5-year layoff
at “HOOKnSHOOT: Absolute Fighting Championships 1”
in Ft. Lauderdale, FL on December 13, 2002. With his first taste
of the martial arts at age 4, Hume just wanted to have fun doing
what he enjoys. Scoring the quickest win of the night, Hume pressed
his will and defeated “Pain” Peters of Team UCC by
arm bar submission at just 1:49 of Round 1. Hume had fun fighting
along side the guys he has trained and liked having them in his
corner for a change.
JC:
Returning to competition after 5 years, you mentioned you would
“press your will” in a fight. Would you explain? MH:
Pressing my will in a fight is my way of controlling and dominating
all aspects of the fight. It’s not a one-dimensional fight
anymore.
JC:
There was some taunting of your opponent during the fight. Would
you explain?
MH: To smack talk me before a fight is okay, but not my corner
men, who deserve respect. The smack talk was over and this is
the introduction of what Matt Hume is about.
JC:
Your post fight speech was all about respect. Would you elaborate?
MH: This is a business and we come in as fighters to entertain
the crown, but we are martial artists and, respect, is what martial
arts is about.
JC:
We’ve talked about you taking it one day at a time. What’s
next for you? MH: I’m going to Japan tomorrow. I’ll
see how my body is when I get back from Japan.
JC:
How is your body right now?
MH: I was in so much pain before this fight. I had a hamstring
and groin pull and was in bed for 3 days. My guys got me warned
up, but it was hard to get in there with my knee injury, which
is not fully recovered. My muscles try to compensate for my injuries.
JC:
You’re a trainer of champions and people in fighters. How
are you feeling?
MH: I felt bad before this fight. My body didn’t feel good.
I took this as a tune-up fight looking to take them one at a
time. I wanted to honor Maurice Smith’s birthday and I wanted
to honor the promoters of HOOKnSHOOT because they are really
good people in this sport.
JC:
You mentioned one more tune up fight. Who would you like?
MH: I have no idea.
JC:
Is there anything you’d like to say?
MH: Thank you for supporting the sport and thank you for welcoming
me back.
Mind
and body must be in check, as Hume has been back to business
running AMC and preparing for his next fight. On March 1, 2003,
Hume meets Rick McCoy of Prodigy Martial Arts in Richmond, VA
at the Lucky Eagle Casino in Rochester, WA. This will be the
first time for HOOKnSHOOT in Washington State, as well as the
first time for co-sanctioning between the U.F.C.F, HOOKnSHOOT
and Washington State sanctioning. “Most importantly,”
exclaims Hume, “it will be my first time to fight MMA in
front of my hometown!”
Source:
ADCC
Ronaldo
Jacare changes Teams
O
Tatame Website is reporting that JJ sensation Ronaldo 'Jacare'
has switched teams and joined the new Master team. Apparently
thinking that having one Jacare is good, then having two will
be great, the kids at Master have a new one. The new team is
shaping up as one of the strongest and most dynamic of modern
times with people like Leozinho & Ricardinho Vieira, Rodrigo
'Comprido', 'Terere' and Damian Maia. Look for some big things
from them!
Source:
ADCC
2/6/03
Quote
of the Day
"There
is real magic in enthusiasm. It spells the difference between
mediocrity and accomplishment."
Norman Vincent Peale
Full
Contact Fighter's Fight Database Is Finally Up!
A few of you may have heard some buzz about FCF putting together
a fight database. We have been working on it for one solid year.
I have been collecting data for the past few years. It is finally
up and released. It is the most comprehensive MMA fight database
in existence and will only get bigger and badder. Check it out.
I want to encourage all the Hawaii fighters and others who have
data that is not in the database to use the link on the Fighter
Profile pages to help us fill in the blanks. We will be continuing
to add pictures, interviews and fight pictures in the near future.
Email me
your comments (good, bad and ugly) about the database. The FCF
team (Mike, David, Joel, Tom & Chris) that worked on it tried
to think of everything (within reason) when putting it together.
Due
to popular demand
Fighters' Club TV episode VII will re-air on Ch. 52:
February 11 (TUE), 8:00 pm
February 18 (TUE), 8:00 pm
February 25 (TUE), 8:30 pm.
Episode
VII features:
Your
favorite 2 MMA hosts (Mike O. & Mark K.)
Superbrawl 25 highlights featuring-
-Eddie Yagin vs. Jin Kazeta (+intv w/ Eddie)
-Barret Yoshida vs. Jason Bress
-Egan Inoue vs. Martin de Jong (+intv w/ Egan re: fight analysis/retirement/his
future)
Chris Onzuka will be making his FCTV debut as roving reporter
conducting the interviews.
Technique of the Week: UFC, PRIDE, & Pro-Wrestling Champion,
Don "The Predator" Frye
And, a FCTV exclusive interv. w/ Superbrawl Promoter T.Jay Thompson
regarding the mysterious ring announcer, Tommy Dakota.
Any
comments or suggestions--like us, hate us, want to feature more
pretty sheelas:
contact us: markk@flex.com
Source:
Mark Kurano
Nogueira
Brothers Likely Set for PRIDE 25!
By Eduardo Alonso
PRIDE 25, scheduled for March 15th, is a mere 6 weeks away and
the card is finally starting to take shape. While many of the
matches for the card are still being negotiated, FCF just found
out that two matches are very likely to happen, and indeed almost
ready to be announced, which will feature the Nogueira brothers
from the Brazilian Top Team! PRIDE Heavyweight champion Rodrigo
Minotauro Nogueira will finally face Russian fighter Emelianenko
Fedor, in a hotly anticipated match-up with Minotauro's belt
on the line. His twin brother, Rogerio "Minotoro" Nogueira,
who just defeated Guy Mezger in a split decision at PRIDE 24,
is also likely to appear on the card facing a student of Hidehiko
Yoshida! The Japanese fighter who also has a black belt in judo
and trains with the former Japanese Olympic Gold Medalist and
current national NHB hero and weighs around 98kg. This will be
the judoka's NHB debut, and those two matches are likely to be
announced within the next few days in Japan. PRIDE 25 still holds
lots of surprises and FCF will continue to keep an close eye
on the developments.
Source:
FCF "Minotauro"
vs. Fedor Official
The PRIDE 25 main event was officially announced today in Japan
as Dream Stage Entertainment representatives confirmed that PRIDE
heavyweight champion Antonio Rodrigo "Minotauro" Nogueira
will face Ukrainian powerhouse Emelianenko Fedor on March 16
in Yokohama for his first title defense since winning the belt
almost a year and a half ago.
Originally
scheduled for December 23, 2002, the bout was pushed back when
Fedor was forced to delay because of injury. The mid-March bout
pits the best heavyweight in the world versus his stiffest competition
to date in Fedor. The Russian Top Team fighter earned the title
shot by stopping Heath Herring last November.
DSE
also announced that Nogueira's twin brother, Rogerio, will face
23-year-old Judo standout Kazuhiro Nakamura as part of the under
card.
Source: Maxfighing
Marcelo
Tigre's Response to Attempted Murder Charges in Brazil
By Chris Onzuka - Chris@Onzuka.com
Marcelo Tigre originally came to Hawaii in 1999 to fight Egan
Inoue. After that controversial fight, Tigre racked up five wins,
one against Joe Charles, before fighting Inoue's student, Cabbage
Correira. Similar to his fight with Inoue, Tigre was disqualified
for using tactics outside of the rule book. During that time,
Tigre took a liking to Hawaii and stayed. Tigre put down some
roots by opening up a school and trained himself and his students
to fight. Tigre then competed in a Pancrase tournament in Japan,
proving himself by KO'ing Tim Lajcik and then dominating Yoshiki
Takahashi only to be disqualified yet again later in the bout.
This time for allegedly eye gouging Takahashi. After that fight
Tigre returned to Brazil. Tigre seemingly disappeared in Brazil
until an article in the Brazilian newspaper, ''Correio Brazilaiense,''
in October 2002 reported that Marcelo Tigre and some of his friends
had beaten a man and woman while in Brazil and were getting charged
for attempted murder. Tigre recently returned to Hawaii for a
couple of months to train before going back to Brazil. I got
a hold of Tigre to get his response to these allegations. Tigre
said that this became a big story for the paper, appearing on
the front page. However, Tigre went on to say that, "the
story was made bigger than it should have been." Tigre explained
that this paper is known for embellishing the truth in order
to increase newspaper sales. Tigre did admit to getting into
a physical confrontation with the couple, but he was alone when
it happened and the newspaper story left out the part where the
woman stabbed him in the hand with a nail file. At the time of
this interview, Tigre still has the remnants of that injury.
After the details came out concerning this case, the newspaper
followed up with a correction article due to the fact that both
parties were not pressing any charges. A copy of the correction
article could not be obtained, but Tigre told me that it appeared,
like most corrections, as a small tidbit, placed deep inside
the paper.
Marcelo
has been working as security for politicians during the recent
elections in Brazil, which is why he has not been fighting. Marcelo
is excited and appreciative of his job because for the first
time in his life he and his three children have medical insurance
and a steady income. All that time away from the ring, has gotten
Marcelo anxious to get back in and fight, which prompted his
trip back to Hawaii. He also wanted to visit his friends in addition
to getting in a couple of months of training before going back
to Brazil. Tigre said that he did not want to fight in Hawaii
anymore because he felt that he could not get a fair fight. "I
have to fight three people in the ring; my opponent, the referee
and the promoter." He went on to say, "I only want
to fight in the big shows now, like UFC or Pride." Marcelo
said that he will be prepared to enter the ring in February or
March. "I feel good right now. I am in shape, but I want
to train harder to beat everyone up." Tigre is in the Light-heavyweight
category (under 205lbs) and wants to let all the promoters of
the larger shows know that he is looking for fights.
Tigre
has been known as a rule breaker, which has tarnished his previously
undefeated record three times. I asked him if he felt like he
would have trouble finding a fight because of this. Tigre responded
by saying, "I respect the rules now. You know me, I just
got a little crazy in the ring. I have been training for rules
like the UFC and Pride. I can fight within the rules." That
remains to be seen. The real question is if any promoter will
give Marcelo Tigre the opportunity to prove that. FCF's Eduardo
Alonso recently reported that Tigre may get his chance to prove
himself in the next Mecca event, which is held in Brazil.
PRIDE's
Future? Grand Prix 2003
Dream Stage Entertainment Confirms Several Pay-Per View Carriers
To Feature PRIDE FC in 2003
Los
Angeles, CA - January 30, 2003 - Evidence of growing interest
in the world of mixed-martial arts and full-contact sports, Dream
Stage Entertainment today confirmed the PRIDE Fighting Championships
(PRIDE FC) event line-up for 2003. PRIDE FC will present a full
schedule of action-packed events starting March 16th in Yokohama
Arena in Yokohama, Japan.
Discuss
PRIDE's future in MMA in the MMA forum
"After
a highly successful 2002 that included sell-outs for each event,
we are looking forward to an exciting and even more successful
2003," said Yukino Kanda, Dream stage Entertainment's Vice
President of Sales, Marketing and Talent Relations. A major highlight
of 2002 was PRIDE FC being sanctioned by the respected Nevada
Athletic Commission. "As a foreign-based company",
says Kanda, "we are extremely proud that the Nevada Commission
put its trust in us".
With
its rapidly growing fan base in North America, PRIDE PC is gearing
up for a banner year. Together with its pay-per-view carriers
and partners, Dream Stage Entertainment will soon be able to
bring the incredible excitement of PRIDE to virtually every cable
and satellite home in the U.S. and Canada.
The
tentative schedule of PRIDE Fighting Championships 2003:
March
16th
PRIDE Fighting Championships: Body Blow
Location: Yokohama Arena
PPV Carriers: DIRECTV, DishNetwork, Bell ExpressVu, Viewer's
Choice Canada
May
24th
PRIDE 26*
Location: Osaka Castle Hall
PPV Carriers: DIRECTV, TVN, DishNetwork, Bell ExpressVu, Viewer's
Choice Canada
August
10th
PRIDE Fighting Championships Grand Prix 2003: Opening Round
Location: Saitama Super Arena
PPV Carriers: DIRECTV, TVN, DishNetwork, Bell ExpressVu, Viewer's
Choice Canada
November
9th
PRIDE Fighting Championships Grand Prix 2003: Final Round
Location: Tokyo Dome
PPV Carriers: DIRECTV, TVN, DishNetwork, Bell ExpressVu, Viewer's
Choice Canada
ABOUT
PRIDE FC
Originating in Japan, PRIDE Fighting Championships combine the
most highly skilled MMA competitions with a 21st Century entertainment
philosophy to create the next generation in cutting edge sports
entertainment. PRIDE competitions include athletes from across
the globe, including the United States, Japan, Brazil, Europe,
Russia and many other countries. PRIDE allows techniques from
a myriad of martial arts and combat sports, solidifying its place
as an authentic and unique fighting style that is built on tension
and excitement, appealing to the growing audience of 21st Century
entertainment fans.
Source:
ADCC
PRIDE
Announces Main Events!
The two main events for PRIDE have been announced, and some of
the other matches are coming to light as well. There appears
to be pressure on PRIDE to do their largest event ever, both
to alleviate pressure and to eat through contracts.
Rodrigo
Nogueira and his brother Rogerio will co-headline PRIDE's first
event since the untimely death of Nayoto Morashita. This is the
first co-headline for the twins.
Rogerio
Nogueira will face Kazuhiro Nakamura. Nakamura is a training
partner and student of Hidehiko Yoshida and is said to have astounding
Judo skills.
Speaking
of Yoshida, many are saying that a match with Bob Sapp is in
the works. Not sure what they mean by 'works' but this match
doesn't seem competitive on paper. Many thought Yoshida asking
to fight Nogueira was ridiculous but Sapp is nearly double his
size!
Hardcore
fans have been waiting for the Emelianenko Fedor vs. Rodrigo
'Minotauro' Nogueira fight since Fedor soundly defeated Heath
Herring. It will now happen! Some are giving Fedor a good chance
for victory. It will be interesting to see what sportsbooks do
with this match alone!
How
about this as a PRIDE bonus. Quinton Jackson vs. Kevin Randelman.
Talk about an exciting fight! Both men walk the walk and talk
the talk but it's been Randelman who has exploded on the scene
lately with a new fire. This one will be VERY entertaining!
Bob
Sapp vs Mirko 'CroCop' Filipovic is quite possibly the most marketable
fight on the show. CroCrop has destroyed EVERYONE in his path
and he's 'only a kickboxer'. Sapp is the hottest thing going
so people will pay to see who is the king of PRIDE (aside from
Nogueira).
Source:
ADCC
Japan's
Long Term Prospects in MMA Questioned
News for the MMA scene in Japan is NOT looking good. Word is
that PRIDE, who normally books their shows months in advance,
has nothing on the table after their scheduled May event.
This
could be interpreted as bad news, or it could mean that PRIDE
holding off to see how the next event does financially without
Morashita's guidance.
The
whole pro wrestling industry is in turmoil as well. The industry
has suffered at the live gate, drawing record low crowds. So
low that the longest running and (once) most profitable group,
New Japan is reportedly cutting salaries and limiting the influx
of foreign talent.
K-1
is also in danger of shrinking after the resignation and arrest
of Ishii. With all these factors, once again, many performers/fighters
are expressing private concerns about the longevity of K-1.
The
DEEP organization has also scaled down their shows. The trend
to use pro wrestlers, who reportedly ask for less money that
established MMA fighters, has taken over. In it's early days,
DEEP earned a reputation for offering many fighters VERY high
paydays but the promotion quickly got smart. Those days are gone.
The
bizarre twists of the last years have left MMA and pro wrestling
blurred in Japan, and people often confuse the two. Sakuraba
is a 'pro wrestler' but all of his fights are legitimate. Nobuhiku
Takada, once considered a pioneer and legend, is billed as a
'shootfighter' but has never won a legitimate fight.
In
all the bad news, it appears that former RINGS star Kiyoshi Tamura
has the best shot at making anything happen with his new organization.
With his brand of 'shooting,' Tamura has done what many haven't
lately - he sold EVERY ticket to his first U-STYLE show, two
weeks prior to the event!
It's
unclear if U-Style will be 100% real or 'strong style' pro wrestling
that just looks real. Many are leaning towards real but in the
same sense, many have doubts. We shall see.
Aside
from Bob Sapp, who has become more of a mainstream celebrity,
the whole sports entertainment industry is taking a beating these
days.
Source:
ADCC
LIGHTWEIGHTS
SERRA-THOMAS, CLEMENTI-EDWARDS TO CLASH AT UFC 41: ONSLAUGHT
LIVE ON PAY-PER-VIEW, FEBRUARY 28
by: Keith Evans
8
Fights At Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City To Feature Penn, Uno
Lightweight Title Bout; Tank Abbott’s Return; Rodriguez,
Sylvia Heavyweight Championship
LAS
VEGAS, February 4, 2003…Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC)
Lightweight top contenders Matt Serra and Din Thomas will clash
after Lightweight Yves Edwards battles Rich Clementi at UFC 41:
Onslaught live on pay-per-view at 10 p.m. EST/7 p.m. PST, Friday,
February 28, from Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J.
An
eight-fight card also will feature the long-awaited BJ Penn versus
Caol Uno fight for the lightweight championship, the return of
legendary Heavyweight Tank Abbott, who will meet jiu-jitsu submission
specialist Frank Mir, and the first title defense by new UFC
Heavyweight Champion Ricco Rodriguez against undefeated contender
Tim Sylvia.
Live
event tickets, $300, $200, $100, $60 and $30, continue on sale
at the Boardwalk Hall box office in Atlantic City, at all Ticketmaster
locations and at www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets also may be ordered
by telephone at 1-800-736-1420. Trump Plaza Hotel & Casino,
Trump Marina and Trump Taj Mahal are the hosts of the event.
UFC
41: Onslaught will be available live on pay-per-view on iN DEMAND,
DIRECTV, Dish Network, Bell ExpressVu and Viewers Choice Canada.
The suggested retail price is $29.95.
Serra
(11-2-0 in mixed martial arts) of Long Island, N.Y., is a Brazilian
jiu-jitsu black belt trained by Renzo Gracie. He combines superb
ground skills, including wrestling take downs and submissions,
with an ever-improving stand-up game to push the action in all
his fights. Serra and Thomas had been scheduled to fight each
other last March in Las Vegas, but Thomas injured a knee in training.
“Din is a tough fighter and has really improved since he’s
been training with the American Top Team. We are going to have
a very exciting fight,” Serra said.
Thomas
(16-3-0) of Orlando, Fla., also utilizes jiu-jitsu submission
techniques and a stand-up striking game to dominate opponents.
With a like-new knee, Thomas readily admits his quality of training
is greatly improved since joining ATT, the U.S. extension of
the Brazilian Top Team. “The competition is very tough,
even for an experienced, professional fighter. This kind of training
will prepare me for Matt, who is really disciplined,” Thomas
said.
Edwards
(10-5-1) from The Woodlands, Tex., a suburb of Houston, is a
Thai boxing-jiu jitsu fighter who is continuing to hone his boxing
skills. In his last UFC fight, June 22 at UFC 37.5 in Las Vegas,
he knocked out Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt Joao “Perini”
Marcos at 1:19 of the first round with a kick to the head. Edwards
works with Kenny Weldon, the boxing trainer who helped build
former heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield’s career.
Clementi
is a free-style fighter from Slidell, La., who will be making
his UFC debut against Edwards. He has earned a 22-5-0 record
in mixed martial arts fighting and has won eight consecutive
fights. “Yves will be a great opponent for my UFC debut
because I will have to utilize all my weapons to beat him. I
feel my standup game is equal to his, but my ground game is superior.
I am really looking forward to fighting him,” Clementi said.
Rodriguez
(10-1-0), a Staten Island, N.Y. native, who now fights out of
Las Vegas, has won 10 straight fights and captured the heavyweight
crown from two-time former champ Randy Couture September 17 at
the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. Sylvia (16-0-0), a
native of Ellsworth, Maine, who fights out of Davenport, Iowa,
is 6’8”, 260 pounds and his height and reach advantage
helped him win a second round technical knockout September 27
over “Cabbage” Correira at the Mohegan Sun.
Tank
(8-7-0) from Huntington Beach, Calif., says he is returning to
do what he does best, “knock people out.” In Mir (4-1-0)
of Las Vegas, he will be facing one of the UFC’s most promising
young heavyweights. Penn (6-1-0) from Hilo, Hawaii, and Uno (13-4-2)
of Kanagawa, Japan, earned the right to meet for the lightweight
title with unanimous decision victories over Serra and Thomas
respectively September 27 at the Mohegan Sun.
The
Ultimate Fighting Championship, headquartered in Las Vegas, is
the world’s leading mixed martial arts sports association.
Owned and operated by Zuffa LLC, the UFC programs six live pay-per-view
events yearly through cable and satellite providers. In addition
to its U.S. distribution on iN DEMAND, DIRECTV, Dish Network
and TVN, UFC events are distributed internationally through British
Sky Broadcasting, WOWOW, Inc. in Japan, Globosat in Brazil, Modern
Sports and Entertainment in Scandinavia and Main Event Television
in Australia. UFC licenses video games for all major playing
platforms through Crave Entertainment and TDK Mediactive, Inc.
The
UFC’s next live PPV event is UFC 41: Onslaught at 10 p.m.EST/7
p.m.PST Friday, February 28, at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City,
N.J. Locate Ultimate Fighting Championship on the internet at
www.ufc.tv.
Source: ADCC
UFC
CHAMPION RICCO RODRIGUEZ
by: Keith Mills
Ricco Rodriguez is the current UFC Heavyweight champion, a title
he is set to defend against Team Extreme’s Tim Sylvia at
the upcoming UFC 41 show, scheduled for February 28th in Atlantic
City, NJ and on pay-per-view.
KM:
Where are you in your training right now? RR: I’m training
pretty well; I just got my training going on. I’m in camp
right now.
KM:
Are you going to stop training about a week or two out? RR: No,
I train right up until the fight.
KM:
I’ve been following your career since Abu Dhabi. I think
Sean Alvarez and Bobby Hoffman were the only people to ever defeat
you. Ever since Hoffman you have just been tearing through the
competition. How do you look back on that period & Abu Dhabi?
RR: I see it like this; I’ve lost once and I don’t
ever want to lose again, that’s the bottom line. I’ve
been robbed a couple times in Abu Dhabi and I felt the political
stamp wasn’t on my side and I just make sure from there
on out I never left it to the judge’s decision. I only ever
lost one time in my life and that’s all I needed to and
I swear again I will never have that feeling again. I do whatever
I have to do to survive and basically my training and the people
I train with help me to be successful where I’m at today.
KM:
I heard that you are training out of Vegas now. RR: I train everywhere.
I’m not at one particular place. I train with a couple people
and I pretty much train with Saul Soliz, Mark Laimon, and pretty
much jump from camp to camp. I train with Marvin Eastman, Tito,
some guys out in Texas, and move around from place to place.
I look for the best training partners and that’s the thing
about me, I’m very mobile. I keep my doors open and being
able to train with a lot of people is pretty much what has made
me a better fighter today.
KM:
I may be mistaken but my perception right now is around the time
of UFC 32 you really started to seem like you were picking up
training more with other people. That’s the point it really
looked like your fighting style and your conditioning really
started to come around. RR: You mean my entrance into the UFC?
KM:
Yeah. I really started to notice in the fight with Monson in
UFC 35 in January of last year. Several of us ringside were surprised
you had your conditioning worked on in that time; you were lower
weight and better shape and you were much more explosive. Once
I started to look into it it looked like that turn around was
around UFC 32. Was there some kind of turn around in that period?
RR: I think the intensity training with certain people. When
I trained for the Monsen fight in particular, training with Marvin
Eastman, training with Mark Laymon, and having Saul Soliz. Those
three guys really made the difference for me because one thing
I learned training down there with John Lewis and those guys
and including Tito was the conditioning being a big factor. Just
working with Saul Soliz, Mark Laymon, and Marvin Eastman, they
really picked up my intensity for that particular fight. Being
that Jeff Monsen was a phenomenal grappler placing in Abu Dhabi,
I knew I had to be prepared with someone who is very explosive,
short, and compact so I used Marvin Eastman for that particular
fight and then Mark Laymon for the submissions. Those two guys
together really got my game on for that particular fight and
I felt very comfortable in being able to try the flying knee
and also the cartwheel guard pass and so forth.
KM:
As far as your next opponent Tim Sylvia, this is your first title
defense. What do you think of Tim? RR: I think Tim is a very
unique fighter because of the fact of his size being 6’8”
270. He’s going to be very difficult to get inside and work
with a lot of his distance and so forth and he’s trying
to defend my shot. We all know what is going to happen here.
He’s a great striker and I’m going to go for the takedown
and he’s going to try to defend it. At the same time I’m
not afraid to stand up with him. A lot of people think my stand-up
is suspect, it’s just that I’ve had my differences
during my fights but I’m willing to stand up with him and
I’m just going to take it to him like nobody has ever taken
it to him before. Bottom line is I’m going to put it to
him and defend my title.
In
part 2 Ricco talks more about how it feels to be the champion,
his thoughts on his fight with Couture that gave him the belt,
and even a book he is writing.
Source:
ADCC
Strength
Training for the Busy MMA Fighter
by: Mike Mahler
Training
to excel at mixed martial arts can be a grueling endeavor that
takes a great deal of time. Many of the MMA athletes that I work
with often complain that they do not have time to lift weights
and the ones that do have time, often focus on the wrong exercises
such as: bench presses and biceps curls. Since time is a factor
for combat athletes, I think that q good chunk of time spent
on weight training should be spent on explosive exercises such
as: dumbbell snatches, swings, and clean and jerks. In addition
to building functional strength that will transfer to the ring,
these exercises work just about all of the major muscle groups.
Moreover, they teach you how to use your body as one unit and
build a strong mind-body connection.
Exercises
such as barbell power-cleans and snatches are also great. However,
they require much more time to master and they are not very forgiving
to beginners. You really need an excellent Olympic training coach
to get you on the right. Since most MMA athletes probably do
not have the time or desire to focus on exercises with a lengthy
learning curve, dumbbell explosive training is the ideal plan
to take advantage of. Dumbbells will give you all of the benefits
of barbell explosive training without the wear and tear. Okay,
enough of the pitch, lets get into the exercises:
One
arm dumbbell swings
Take
a fairly light dumbbell and swing it between your legs, quickly
reverse the motion and snap through with your hips swinging the
dumbbell to chest height. Once you get the hang of it, increase
the weight and do ten repetitions with each hand. Make sure that
you grip the dumbbell as tight as possible and get into a breathing
pattern that is comfortable for you. Some people prefer to breathe
out as they swing the dumbbell to chest height and then breathe
in as the dumbbell swings down between the legs. Others prefer
the reverse. Try both and stick with the one that feels most
comfortable. Swings are an incredible and effective way to build
the rapid hip movement that is used often in kicks and takedowns.
One
arm dumbbell snatches
Dumbbell
snatches are similar to dumbbell swings. However, instead of
swinging the dumbbell out, pull it straight up as if you are
starting a lawn mower and send it overhead in one motion. Like
swings, make sure to snap through with your hips. Also, regarding
breathing, breathe in as you snatch the dumbbell off of the floor
and breathe out as you take the dumbbell back to the floor. Try
doing 10-15 repetitions with each arm and you will feel like
you just did several sprints.
Two
dumbbell clean and jerks
Start
by cleaning two dumbbells to your shoulders. From there, squat
down a few inches and quickly reverse the motion sending the
dumbbells straight up as if you are doing a military press. As
the weights go up, jump off of the floor and when you land on
the floor, squat down a few inches again. At this point the dumbbells
should be locked out overhead. Lower the dumbbells to your shoulders,
then to the floor and repeat. This is an incredible exercise
for building shoulder endurance that will transfer to the ring.
It will also increase speed and coordination. If you only have
time to do one exercise, this is the one to do. It works just
about every muscle in the body. If you want to lose weight fast,
try doing twenty repetitions three times a week and reduce your
caloric intake. Alternatively, if you want to gain weight, do
the same thing and increase the calories.
Now
if you still have some time left over to do a few other exercises.
Try doing the “Turkish get-up” for an unbelievable
core workout. Lie down on the floor and hold one dumbbell straight
up as if you just did a bench press. Turn to the opposite side
and use your free arm to help you get into the squat position.
From there, stand up and then reverse the movement. Do about
three to five repetitions and then switch arms. Make sure to
keep your arm locked at all times. Failure to do so might result
in an unexpected knock out. Make sure to start with light dumbbell
and work your way up gradually.
Below
is a sample program
Monday
3x10
(three sets of ten) one arm dumbbell swings
3x8-12 (three sets of eight to twelve) two dumbbell clean and
jerks
3x5 (three sets of five) Turkish get-ups
Take one-minute breaks between each set and each exercise.
Thursday
5x5
(five sets of five) clean and jerks
3x10-15 (three sets of ten to fifteen) one arm dumbbell snatches
3x5 Janda Sit-ups (three sets of five) (no momentum sit-ups in
which you only
flex your butt and stomach. Do not flex your hip flexors or forcefully
press your feet into the ground.
If
you have more time, you can do this program three to four times
a week. Just work it into your routine as time permits. In the
beginning, you will find the program challenging. However, you
will adapt and will have real strength that will transfer to
your combat sport. If you want to make the program more challenging,
try using kettlebells instead of dumbbells. Kettlebells are iron
balls with handles that range in weights from 36lbs to 88lbs.
They will make all of the above exercises much more difficult
and are also great fun to use. For more information on kettlebells,
go to www.russiankettlebell.com.
Give
this program a shot for five weeks and let me know how it works
out for you.
About
the Author
Mike
Mahler is a strength coach and a certified kettlebell instructor
based in Santa Monica, California. Mike has been a strength athlete
for over ten years and designs strength training programs for
athletes, law enforcement, and fire fighters. Mike is available
for phone consultations and personal training in the Los Angeles/Washington
DC area. For more information, visit Mike’s site at www.mikemahler.comor
email Mike at mahler25@yahoo.com
Source:
ADCC
2/5/03
Quote
of the Day
"We
must overcome the notion that we must be regular . . .
It robs you of the chance to be extraordinary and leads you to
the mediocre."
Date
of Birth- 09/12/1984
Weight- 66kg
Height- 1,69cm
Team- Team Ataide Junior
FIGHTWORLD
Brazil- Was this your first no gi competition? Rany Yahrya- I
had taken part in two minor no gi competitions in Brasilia before.
FIGHTWORLD
Brazil- What belt are you in Jiu Jitsu? Rany Yahrya- I am a
brown-belt.
FIGHTWORLD
Brazil- When did you start in Jiu Jitsu? Rany Yahrya- Seven
years ago.
FIGHTWORLD
Brazil- How did your interest in Jiu Jitsu arise? Rany Yahrya-I
wanted to practice a Martial Art, so I grew up around Jiu Jitsu
and when I took part in the events I knew I could get some recognition
fighting Jiu Jitsu.
FIGHTWORLD
Brazil- Are you arabic? Rany Yahria- My daddy is Syrian and
my mother is Brazilian, I was born in Brazil. This is good because
I think I
can fight in Arab League too!
FIGHTWORLD
Brazil- What are your titles in Jiu Jitsu? Rany Yahrya- I have
won the MUNDIALS of Jiu Jitsu two times. I got my first MUNDIAL
title when I was 14 years old. I am the youngest Jiu Jitsu world
champion.
FIGHTWORLD
Brazil- Why did you start training in Submission? Rany Yahrya-
I prefer no gi, this is a kind of identification with myself.
I have never had a good grip with the gi and I always liked training
with heavier guys in my academy. I have always done better no
gi. I also prefer no gi because I feel freer with the movements.
FIGHTWORLD
Brazil- You live in Brasilia and this state is not known for
Submission and Jiu Jitsu like Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo are.
Did you expect to be invited for the Trials? Rany Yahrya- No,
I did not think I would be invited. After I sent in my resume
to the ADCC. I did not expect to be invited at all. So, I went
on to extend my vacation in Bahia, out having fun every night.
When I got the invite. I was still in Bahia, partying. I was
surprised and this left me with only two weeks to prepare. I
was confident and My Master Ataide Junior was confident too.
FIGHTWORLD
Brazil- Neither you nor Marcos Galvao were picked as favorites
to win. Did this help you to fight more relaxed? Rany Yahrya-
I did not think about it. I only thought about fighting with
my all strength and technique
and without worrying about who will be my opponent.
FIGHTWORLD
Brazil- Did you know anything about the fighters you would face
in the Trials? Rany Yahrya- No, I did not. I am always so confident
in my game. I knew I could overwhelm my opponents just by playing
my game. I needed to have confidence in the finals against Galvao.
It was the only fight in my whole life where I thought I would
tapout due to fatigue. Thank GOD and my Master Ataide Junior
who always supports me. I was not conditioned very well for the
event. I faced off against a fighter without joints in semifinals
[laughs], so I went on to the finals exhausted.
FIGHTWORLD
Brazil- [laughs] Fighter without joints? What do you mean? Rany
Yahrya- I do not know his name (Luciano Azevedo/RFT), but I put
two tight armlocks on him without feeling any pain he managed
to free himself like
nothing had happened. I expended a lot of energy trying to submit
him.
FIGHTWORLD
Brazil- Your Master, Ataide Junior, was importance to you in
your corner during the fight. Tell us about it. Rany Yahrya-
He was very important. In the finals I was very tired because
I was not prepared. So Ataide Junior inspired me and I was able
to turn the score in my favor in the last minute.
FIGHTWORLD
Brazil- What was your strategy to win at the Trials? Rany Yahrya-
I did not adopt any strategy. Like I said before, I fought to
submit or to win via the best way possible.
FIGHTWORLD
Brazil- Have you been a fan of ADCC since the beginning? Rany
Yahrya- I always like all kinds of fights and I paid attention
to all events. ADCC is one of them.
FIGHTWORLD
Brazil- With this tournament victory, you have opened the doors
for all fighters from Brasilia. Do you realize that? Rany Yahrya-
Yeah. Unfortunately we do not have as many fighters as Rio de
Janeiro does. We are a small group and we are far from the places
where big events happen. We still are young, but we have some
weapons to show in near future.
FIGHTWORLD
Brazil- You remained calm in all your fights and here in this
interview too. You are only 18 years old, where is your excitement?
[laughing] Rany Yahrya- I guess I still have not stopped to think
'I am in ADCC 2003'! I celebrated much after the final match.
But, I think it will not hit me really until next week [laughs].
I am still anesthetized, at least for a while. [laughs]
FIGHTWORLD
Brazil- Will you have new surprises to show in ADCC 2003? Rany
Yahrya- I will go to win the tourney. I can surprise everybody
just as I did here. If I lose there, it will be with honor. I
will fight 100% to win and
if loose it is not because I was inferior to anyone.
FIGHTWORLD
Brazil- What are you goals in Martial Arts? Rany Yahrya- Besides
ADCC 2003 trophy, I would like to fight in a big NHB event. I
already fought in NHB once and I won. It was 4 months ago. Right
now I am totally focused on ADCC 2003. I have a good background
to fight in NHB. I am already number one in Amateur Boxing at
my weight under 73,5kg in junior category. By the way I beat
in my first fight in this tournament, Hudson Rocha (BTT), who
is a SHOOTO USA/HOOKnSHOOT winner.
FIGHTWORLD
Brazil- So do you have any more weapons in your arsenal? Rany
Yahrya- I am only lacking opportunities. We will use the Submission
events to go on to fight in NHB. This is the Ataide Junior's
intention.
FIGHTWORLD
Brazil- Add anything? Rany Yahrya- I will train more and I will
improve my gas. With these two stuffs on the verge. I will have
cleaned up my techniques for the main event. I want to fight
in ADCC 2003 10 times better than I fought in the Trials and
I will have 4 months to work on my game. I would like to thank
my master Ataide Junior who always supports me in everything
I do. This was very fundamental for me also Brenno Gusmao for
my conditioning and Lia Vianna is my nutritionist. Without Gusmao,
I would not have had the gas to fight the last match and without
Lia Vianna I would have to fight in under 76.9kg weight, because
I was fat. [laughs]
FIGHTWORLD
Brazil- Thanks for you time and good luck kid. Rany Yahrya- Ok,
see you in ADCC 2003.
Source:
ADCC
Extreme
Challenge Promoter MONTE COX
by: Keith Mills
With the EXTREME CHALLENGE hitting Davenport, Iowa this weekend,
promoter Monte Cox continues to be one of the busiest characters
in MMA. We caught up with him, talked about the EC's Middleweight
series and the rest of TEAM EXTREME.
Saturday
February 8th - Stars & Stripes, Davenport, Iowa.
Doors
open at 6 p.m. with the first bout at 7 p.m. Tickets are available
at the door and at Gold's Gym of Davenport.
TOURNAMENT
Bracket A
Fight 1: Jay Buck vs. Forrest Petz
Fight 2: Kyle Jensen vs. Dennis Reed
Bracket
B
Fight 3: Johnathan Goulet vs. Jason Rigsby
Fight 4: Brendan Seguin vs. Leo Sylvest
Alternate
bout
Fight 5: Kurt Illemann vs. Spencer Fisher
Tourney
semifinals
Fight 6: Fight1 winner vs. Fight2 winner
Fight 7: Fight3 winner vs. Fight4 winner
Tourney
final
Fight 9: Fight6 winner vs. Fight7 winner
KM:
So February 8th is the first of the Middleweights series. What
can you tell us about that? MC: This is pretty straightforward.
We tried this with the Heavyweights last year for Return Of The
Heavyweights and it worked really well. We got Tim Sylvia out
of it and not that much longer he’s fighting for the UFC
title so obviously we helped discover somebody and then two other
guys, Wiuff and Cabbage, got in also. It’s a successful
venture for T.J. and I so we decided
to do it with the 185 lb class because that is the class that
is hurting the most. People came out of the woodwork to fight
in the 185 lb class. I had probably forty applicants for the
eight positions and that’s when we decided to go ahead and
copy the Heavyweight tournament entirely and do the two eight-man
tournaments. The only difference is the winners are only going
to advance to an eight-man tournament in Hawaii. Sixteen-man
was an adventure but a little too much. A lot of people getting
hurt and that’s not what we are looking for.
KM:
Yeah, Sylvia had four fights in two days out of that. MC: And
Tim won all of those but we’re not going to do that. We
have an eight-man February 8th at Extreme Challenge 49, we have
the eight-man in Salt Lake City at Extreme Challenge 50…
We are able to take four guys directly to Hawaii and the only
two we know for sure are Doerkson and Stephane Potvin from UCC.
Those two are in, we’ll take the top two finishers from
the 8th and 23rd and we’ll look through those tournaments
and hopefully find two other guys that we like, like someone
who won but got hurt or someone who fought the eventual winner
and had the best fight of the night but happened to be in the
second round.
KM:
Any plans on releasing the Hawaii show on video? MC: The Hawaii
UCC is getting ready to be put on pay-per-view in Canada so we
have to wait until after the pay-per-view. The Heavyweight stuff,
that is already available on sale on Superbrawl.com.
KM:
And this series is going to be available on video? MC: Yeah,
we don’t spend a lot of money taping the first two rounds
but we’ll do the full tape job for the final. We just can’t
have that kind of budget to do the full job on the qualifying
tournaments.
KM:
Any word on who will be in the Utah show? MC: That is all full.
Shooting from memory I know we have Dennis Kang, Griffin Reno,
Todd Carney, Randy Rowe, Cruz Chacon for Ludwig’s camp,
Tim I think it’s Graham from Liddell’s school, Brian
Ebersole from IL, and Eddie Rolon.
KM:
And Utah is the one where we have Jennifer Howe and Amanda Buckner.
Any other bouts not in the tournament? MC: There will probably
be two or three but they all will be local guys just to try to
sell tickets, it won’t be anyone you know.
KM:
What is up with Hughes and Sherk in UFC 42? Is that signed? MC:
Signed on our end and I hear signed on Sherk’s end. We have
(Tim) Sylvia fight in the next one (UFC 41) and they are still
looking for someone to fight in the next one to fight Yves Edwards
and Clemente is up for that, Clemente is fighting David Garner
in the show in Louisiana, Franklin and Kerry Schall are fighting
in the Above Ground Fighting in California on the 15th. That
might be it.
KM:
We don’t have anything for Pat or Jeremy… MC: Pat’s
next fight hopefully will be against Trigg in the WFA and Jeremy
is going to fight probably three times in two months. We’re
hoping to have him fight Homer Moore for the UCC, maybe Alex
Steibling up in Minnesota, and then he’s going to England
to fight.
KM:
What about Dave Menne? MC: We’re looking at Menne fighting
in Minnesota also in April, possibly against Dennis Reed.
KM:
In Brad Kohler’s show? MC: No, in the new show…the
ICC.
KM:
What is the ICC? MC: It’s just a new show that two people
put together. They had their first show a couple weeks ago.
KM:
Jeremy won that one, right? MC: Yeah, Jeremy beat Travis Fulton.
Stopped him in a minute in the second round. It was a good show
and they’re going to do another one and I’ll have some
guys in that.
KM:
What were you saying about England? Is that the show in April
or May? MC: Yeah, it’s a combination show with three different
promoters putting it all together. I want to say April 22nd,
I can’t remember the date he gave me, but they want to have
Jeremy and more, maybe Jason Black or someone like that too.
WFA also we have Jermaine Andre fighting Lance Gibson.
KM:
Isn’t that April? MC: They are saying April, we don’t
know when exactly.
KM:
Was there anything else you want to get across about the February
8th show? MC: I just think those tournaments are going to be
exciting. I agree with most people tournaments aren’t really
great for the sport, that fighters don’t fight at their
full potential and maybe one guy is more tired or more injured
than the other but at the same time they are still the best way
for someone to get noticed and get recognition quick. It’s
still a way for a big organization to look at someone and see
them fight three or four times and decide is this a fluke or
is this for real. We’re gong to put it on and see what happens
and I think it’s going to make for some great fights.
Source:
ADCC
K-1
World Max 2003
K-1
World Max 2003 will begin on 3/1/03 and will consist of an 8-man
tournament and a superfight to headline.
The
card is set for Tokyo, Japan at the Ariake Coliseum and will
air on free TV.
This
is K-1's first attempt at running an event without the guidance
of Master Ishi. Ishi, who was forced into resignation last month
after a federal investigation into his tax evasion charges.
K-1,
like Pride, is having a difficult time in maintaining momentum
after losing their top executives (one suicide and Ishi's resignation).
There
are still inside sources in Japan saying that Pride may go with
more Japanese fighters. There is talk of cutting the foreign
roster by as much as 50-75% as well as a more realistic payscale.
One
American and another Brazilian fighter, both compete for Pride
on a regular basis, voiced their concerns.
'I'm
very worried about the future of Pride. No one is sure what is
going to happen' said a top Brazilian fighter.
'There
may be a reason so many are turning to pro wrestling. The company
is now questioning ever decision it makes' a top-ten American
fighter recently said off the record.
If
the card below is any indication, K-1 could follow Pride's footsteps.
But traditionally, this tournament is reserved for mostly Japanese
fighters and is one of the smaller K-1 events.
One
thing is clear. It's now evident why Genki Sudo bailed out from
his UFC fight.
Tournament:
Masato vs. Genki Sudo
Tournament: Takehiro Murahama vs. TBA
Tournament: Kojiro vs. Kozo Takeda
Tournament: Takashi Ono vs. Takayuki Kohiruimaki
Superfight: Albert Kraus (Holland) vs. Mike Zambidis (Australia)
Source:
ADCC
The
Return of A Legend
A Q&A with Frank Shamrock
By Jason Probst
Frank
Shamrock's star burned bright, and it tore through the mixed
martial arts world at a time when the fledgling sport needed
a star to carry it to a larger audience. Equal parts confident
and charismatic, Shamrock emerged from the shadow of brother
Ken and emerged as the UFC light heavyweight champion, seemingly
retiring in 1999 after four defenses that left little doubt that
he was the best mixed martial arts fighter in the world.
Unassuming
and cerebral in his approach, Shamrock combined the science of
collaborative training techniques from multiple disciplines,
taking the solely effective parts from kickboxing, grappling
and jiu-jitsu to create a style of fighting that was a stark
departure from those who preceded him. Teaming up with Maurice
Smith and Tsuyoshi Kosaka, Shamrock formed The Alliance, which
served as the prototype cross-training model that's the standard
today. It was a model virtually created from scratch that became
a widely imitated formula.
He
wasn't particularly imposing at first glance, but he was deadly
effective. Arm barring touted Olympian Kevin Jackson in 16 seconds
in his 1997 debut at UFC Japan, Shamrock followed up with a 24-second
destruction of Igor Zinoviev to win the UFC title. He then defended
with defenses against John Lober and Jeremy Horn before taking
out Tito Ortiz in 1999 before retiring. There wasn't enough challenge
to keep him around in the sport, he said, and he went into acting
and other pursuits. The worst part about it was he was probably
right.
The
sport has since gone on without Frank Shamrock, and the UFC is
enjoying the kind of success that seemed only a dream when he
ruled the Octagon. With regular shows in Nevada and a bigger
fan base than ever, UFC and mixed martial arts have obtained
the critical toeholds of being sanctioned by state athletic commissions,
and access to pay-per-view telecasts. Politicians once bent on
banning the sport have since moved on to more feasible causes.
Tito
Ortiz has since become the flag-bearer for the UFC, and he's
bigger than ever off the heels of his destruction of Ken Shamrock
last November in UFC 40. But that missing element in mixed martial
arts was always Frank Shamrock, because too many people remember
him and wonder how good he could've been had he stayed around.
Last year Frank announced his intentions for a comeback fight
against Ricardo Almeida, only to break his leg in training.
With
his comeback fight scheduled for the WEC show March 27 in Lemoore,
California, Shamrock still doesn't have an opponent but it's
of little consequence in the larger picture. He wants to come
back and restore the sport to what he feels it should have been,
and spoke with Maxfighting.com to discuss his thoughts on coming
back, Tito Ortiz, and the state of MMA.
Maxfighting:
So you're back in the mix again. How's your training going?
Frank
Shamrock: The sport doesn't mean anything anymore. Titles don't
mean anything anymore. The world wants to see athletes and role
models and stars and our sport in the process. They're just focusing
on men fighting in a cage. People follow stories, things they
can associate with. Very few people associate with two guys in
a cage kicking the crap out of each other. The rest of the world
thinks it's pretty far out.
Maxfighting:
So what do you think is wrong?
FS:
I just hope to bring a little more recognition and attention
to the people in the sport. I speak to a large number of people.
And the values and things I stand for, they speak to a large
group of people. I'd like to see more of our athletes promoted
that promote those values. I think the sport took a big crap
for itself. Right now the sport's about money. I'm trying to
make money too, and I'm not about to change who I am. This is
a good sport. These guys are professional martial artists, and
they need to be presented this way. I like Tank Abbot personally,
but bringing him back is bad for the sport.
Maxfighting:
Your formulation of the Alliance set a precedent, and now everyone's
doing it. How much have fighters in MMA improved since you were
fighting?
FS:
They're most definitely better. I think that Maurice and I changed
the sport by adding a huge amount of athleticism and teamwork
and sort of communal training. We sort of changed the way the
sport was done. Now there are teams and stuff like that.
Maxfighting:
What were your thoughts on Ortiz and Ken?
FS:
I knew exactly what was gonna happen. It was no surprise to me.
I thought if Tito had bigger nuts he could've beaten Ken in the
first round. I offered to train Ken, and then Tito asked me to
train him. I think the fight was good for the sport. I don't
know, it was a tough spot to be in. I've also helped Tito out
in training. I knew what the result was going to be.
Maxfighting:
How interested are you in fighting Tito again? He's now the biggest
name in MMA, and the UFC's main guy, but if you're fighting people
are going to want to see you guys do it again.
FS:
It's not sort something I'm pursuing. I'm not getting back into
the sport for the money. It's a fight for money. If we were fighting
on the NBC it'd be vs. Tito. For me it's about me watching the
last 9 years of my life be stepped on, and misrepresented.
Maxfighting:
What organizations are you talking to and considering fighting
for?
FS:
Everybody has been kind enough to call me. The UCC, ICC, WEC,
K1, everyone has contacted me. I am keeping an open mind for
everybody except for the UFC.
Maxfighting:
Why not?
FS:
I don't think that they have the future of the athletes in mind.
I didn't break my foot, ribs, leg, hand and everything else on
my body to be flushed down the toilet because I won't sign my
contract with them. And that's not how you treat a champion
Maxfighting:
So what's your comeback plan?
FS:
I start March 27. I just had a meeting on Friday. I'm looking
for a high profile name opponent, eventually. But I'm trying
to drill into them, "Guys, I broke my leg six months ago.
I'm not ready for Godzilla just yet!"
Maxfighting:
One of the things you were unique at was getting caught in a
bad position and getting out of it. How did you get so effective
at that?
FS:
A lot of it is the team I've built and the training system I've
created. We should start our training from the worst position
first - fully mounted. Then we play with it. And we find some
solutions. Then we do it. If it works we add it, if not we throw
it out. I've been to a lot of gyms where a lot of guys wrestle
and want to just get me in an arm bar. In my gym (San Jose, American
Kickboxing Academy), I come in and tell guys, "What can
you show me?" Everybody leaves there with something new.
That's the key. That's the difference between martial arts, and
the current state of MMA, and it's small and it's tight, but
it's not represented properly.
Maxfighting.com:
How's your team shaping up?
FS:
My trainers are Javier Mendez, "Crazy" Bob Cook, and
we have 30 pros who train there in San Jose. We've got Paul Buentello,
Christian Wellisch, Josh Thompson, and Rich Crumpleton is one
of our young stars. They're all training in our system of sharing
the knowledge and building on it.
Maxfighting:
So would you ever fight for the UFC again?
FS:
I can say right now if the UFC showed up at my door with a million
dollar check I wouldn't be fighting for 'em. The world I come
from, you walk into gym, take your shoes off, you bow and show
respect. If someone lets you use their body you let them use
their body, and they use yours. They are the biggest force in
the world. They are mixed martial arts. This is not a battle
that I chose, or one that I care to participate in. My goal is
to make this the biggest sport in the world. It just takes one
guy, an Oscar De La Hoya, to make this sport. But I'm not gonna
sacrifice who I am to do it.
Max:
How long until you get back to top form?
FS:
I think it's gonna take me a couple of fights. Right now I've
been sitting at a computer for six months. I can type 60 words
a minute! My timing is a little off. But my brain is so strong.
I trained Thursday until I vomited until the middle of the exercise.
I think I need a couple fights to put me back into the A league.
In 1997 I knew more about fighting and training than anybody
in the world; I called everybody up and talked and said what
does your guys weigh, and how much to fight him?
Max:
Have you and Ken talked since his loss to Ortiz?
FS:
I haven't talked with Ken. I think that he should retire for
the sake of his name. It's not like he's over or it's over or
whatever. When he signed that fight I told him through the grapevine,
"Don't take the fight." If he'd have pulled it off
it would've been the greatest coup in fighting. But I knew what
was going to happen. Now if you attach a value to that he's probably
lost 75% of his name value. When you're 50-60 years old and trying
to make a buck, your name is what you're going to fall back on.
Max:
How much better has Tito gotten since you fought him?
FS:
Tito's gotten a lot better. His striking has gotten a lot better.
His cardio and muscular conditioning has definitely gotten to
the next level. I think his app. To strategy in fights has gotten
a lot better. You can tell that he's diced a fight up in ten
different sections, and then just jumps on it and is relentless
until it breaks. That is one thing I've always done. I think
Tito has developed that same competitive focus on making people
make mistakes and capitalizing on those. A real champion runs
a race and hears a breath from someone and they're tired and
he turns it on. Tito is a real champion, he's a good guy personally
and he's a good representative
Max:
Putting the UFC aside, let's say you fought Tito again. How would
you approach that?
FS:
I would approach it in much the same way. I would fight more
to avoid the takedown. When I fought Tito the first time I wanted
to take it to the ground and tire him out. I knew he would be
intimidated in standing up with me. My whole game was to stand
up to bang and force him to take me down and expend that energy.
I just let him take me down. If I fought Tito again I would not
only stand up, I would sprawl. Tito is still scared to get hit.
Tito is still not comfortable getting hit. It takes a long time
to get comfortable with it. Some people aren't comfortable getting
hit. He has still got that little bit of that, "If you hit
me good, I'm gonna come apart" thing.
Max:
Ken dropped him in the early moments with a pretty good right
hand, but Tito recovered. He was still strong.
FS:
Yeah, it was kind of a half-shoulder, half-arm punch. But Ken
knocked him down.
Max:
How do you feel about the 24-30 hour window between the weigh-ins
and the fight?
FS:
The biggest I've ever been is 194 for John Lober the first time
I fought him. I've never weighed in without my clothes. I've
never wanted people to know what I weigh, because if you're bigger
than the other guy, you're going to feel more confident. I've
used every trick in the book. Weighing in with clothes on, sneakers,
you name it.
Max:
Why don't you drop to 185 and fight middleweight? That would
be a good weight for you and you would be that much more effective
against the smaller guys.
FS:
185, that's definitely where I'm gonna head. In the earlier days,
when I fought Kosaka he was 240, no one really thought so much
about. If you equate it to boxing, weight makes a big difference.
Boxing really knows about the weight. In the early days of mixed
martial nobody knew what an effect it had. We're just figuring
it out about the sport. My guys joke that I should drop to 170.
Max:
You could do that, but then you'd be One Legged Shamrock.
FS:
Yeah! Definitely 185 is where I'm headed. I can make that weight
easy. I'd skip breakfast. When I fought K-1 kickboxing I was
183. I had a light dinner, skipped breakfast, and soup for lunch.
And I never had to cut weight.
Maxfighting:
How do you feel about the weight that a light heavy like Ortiz
takes into the ring against you after making the 200-lb. limit?
It's been raised to 205 now, so he'd be even bigger.
FS:
I weighed in fully clothed and was about 192. He probably entered
the ring about 218 lbs. I knew that fight was either to end in
30 seconds, or go long. In fact, when I studied Tito, I went
back and studied electrolytes and what that would do to you with
a big weight gain after dehydration. I just knew that I would
beat him.
Source: Maxfighting
2/4/03
Quote
of the Day
"My
goal is simple. It is complete understanding of the universe,
why it as it is and why it exists as all."
Stephen Hawking
Fighters'
Club New Episode to Air Tonight!
Fighters' Club TV
episode VII airs tonight @ 8pm on Channel 52.
It will repeat next week also--same time/same station.
Episode VII features:
Your
favorite 2 MMA hosts (Mike Onzuka & Mark Kurano)
Superbrawl 25 highlights featuring:
-Eddie Yagin vs. Jin Kazeta (+ interview with Eddie)
-Baret Yoshida vs. Jason Bress
-Egan Inoue vs. Martin de Jong
(+ interview with Egan re: fight analysis/retirement/his future) All interviews conducted by FCTV's roving reporter--Chris
Onzuka
Technique of the Week: Don "The Predator" Frye
And, a FCTV exclusive interview with Superbrawl Promoter T. Jay
Thompson regarding the mysterious Tommy Dakota.
Source:
Fighers' Club
Luis
"Limao" Opens Another Location in Maui
Luis
'Limao' Heredia has added a new location in Maui,Hi. Limao, a
Rickson Black Belt is now teaching at North Shore Movement Arts
at the Haiku Market Place Cannery. 810 Haiku Rd # 230. For information
contact (808) 575-5093.
Source:
ADCC
Tita
Benaion teaching at Relson Gracie Titusville Affiliate Sidney "Tita" Benaion is sitting
on the couch, third from the right, inbetween Relson & Fredson
Alves. The Hobbit King is on the far right.
We met
Tita (pronounced Chita, not Tita, you mokes and blala's) in Columbus,
Ohio. He is a very nice guy, although we haven't had the opportunity
to train with him. He is a friend of Freson Alves, so he must
be a good guy. What's up to all our friends in Columbus (while
we mentioned it)!
Royler Gracie black belt Sidney 'Tita' Benaion will be in Titusville,
Pennsylvania the weekend of February 17 to 21, 2003. Straight
from Brazil, Tita will be holding Gi and No-Gi classes as well
as offering privates throughout the weekend at the Relson Gracie
Training Association, Titusville Chapter, 10939 Skyline Drive.
Contact Pat Madden at 814-571-6067 to reserve a space for a class
or private.
Source:
ADCC/Kid Peligro
To
Crown A Lightweight Champion...
by: Joseph Cunliffe
When contract
negotiations failed between Zuffa Sports Entertainment and UFC
Lightweight Champion Jens Pulver, the UFC was left with a gap
to fill, as Pulver vacated the title after UFC 35 to pursue opportunities
elsewhere.
With
the title dormant for half a year, Zuffa had a decision to make
in replacing their champion. “We had a vacant title,”
said Joe Silva, Director of Talent Development for Zuffa/UFC,
“so we put together a tournament consisting of four of the
top lightweights in the world.” Those top lightweights were
BJ Penn, Matt Serra, Din Thomas
and Caol Uno.
At
UFC 39: The Warriors Return, we saw Penn, Serra, Thomas and Uno participate in a 4-man
lightweight tournament for the right to compete for the vacant
UFC Lightweight Championship previously held by Pulver. Props
were given to Silva for developing a tournament, “so that
we would crown a worthy champion,” he said.
Both
coming off Unanimous Decision wins over their opponents at The
Warriors Return, 24-year-old Penn
of Hilo, Hawaii meets 27-year-old Uno of Kanagawa, Japan for
the vacant UFC Lightweight Championship at UFC 41: Onslaught.
Penn and Uno had suffered
loses to Pulver in their quest to sport the Lightweight Championship
belt. These two top contenders previously faced each other at
UFC 34: High Voltage, with Penn
being victorious over Uno by a vicious first round KO.
Penn, known
as The Prodigy, is a veteran of 6 UFC’s. Sporting a UFC
record of 5-1-0, Penn is a powerful striker and grappler who
was the 1st non-Brazilian black belt to win the World Championships
in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Penn made his UFC debut on May 4, 2001,
at UFC 31: Locked and Loaded, where he defeated wrestler Joey
Gilbert by Referee Stoppage due to punches. Penn followed up
that win on June 29, 2001, with a sudden and violent Referee
Stoppage against Din Thomas at UFC 32: Showdown in the Meadowlands.
If that wasn’t enough, in their first meeting on November
2, 2001, Penn KO’ed Uno at just 0:11 of the first round
with a flurry of punches at UFC 34: High Voltage. Penn experienced
his first -- and only UFC loss to date -- on January 11, 2002,
by Majority Decision to Jens Pulver at UFC 35: Throwdown. Returning
to his winning streak on May 10, 2002, Penn defeated Paul Creighton
at UFC 37: High Impact by TKO. Penn then went on to defeat Matt
Serra on September 22, 2002, at UFC 39: The Warriors Return by
Unanimous Decision to earn the right at this title fight against
Uno.
Uno is
a veteran of 5 UFC’s. Sporting a 3-2-0 record, Uno is a
highly technical grappler and striker who also utilizes his extensive
wrestling experience to submit opponents. Uno is an Abu Dhabi
veteran, placing 2nd in the 1999 ADCC Submission Wrestling World
Championships. Uno made his UFC debut on February 23, 2001, at
UFC 30: Battle on the Boardwalk, where he lost to Jens Pulver
in a match to crown the first UFC under 155 pound Champion by
Majority Decision. Uno returned on June 29, 2001, at UFC 32:
Showdown in the Meadowlands to defeat Fabiano Iha by Referee
Stoppage. Uno then suffered an 0:11 KO loss to Penn in their first meet on November 2, 2001, at
UFC 34: High Voltage. But Uno returned on May 10, 2002, at UFC
37: High Impact to defeat Yves Edwards by Unanimous Decision
. Uno continued his winning streak by defeating Din Thomas by
Unanimous Decision on September 22, 2002, at UFC 39: The Warriors
Return to earn the right at this title fight against Penn.
This highly anticipated match will pit 2 of the best lightweights
in the world against each other to crown a lightweight champion.
UFC
41: Onslaught will take place on Friday, February 28, 2003, at
Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, NJ. For more information, check
out www.ufc.tv.
Source:
ADCC
Kid
Peligro Jiu-Jitsu News
Kid
Peligro is happy to report that his friend Angela Gracie has
moved to Australia where she plans to wed her beau Luke Beston.
Kid Peligro Jiu-Jitsu News is somewhat responsible for the two
meeting in cyberspace (long story). Angela is one of the grandaughters
of the belated Grandmaster Carlos Gracie and had been living
in Hawaii for the past few years while managing some of her famous
relatives careers etc.
Kid
wants to be the first to congratulate the new pair to be and
just has one question for Luke: 'Is it going to be Luke Beston-Gracie
or you are going to keep your maiden name?' :)
Source:
ADCC
Kid
Peligro Jiu-Jitsu News
IGJJF Open Final Day Saulo vs Pe de Pano
The
final day of the First IGJJF Open concluded yesterday at the
Cal State Domingues Hills U. with some incredible fights and
two newly promoted Black Belts. In front of a host of celebs
like Ed O'Neil - TV, musicians Ulises Bella - Ozomati, Rakaa
Taylor - Dilated Peoples, Jose fraguas - Grappling Magazine &
Black Belt including Royce Gracie, Romero 'Jacare', Pedro Sauer,
Rodrigo Medeiros, Pedro Valente, Rigan Machado, Renato Magno,
Caique Elias, Franco De Camargo, Pedro Carvalho, Mario Aielo,
Aloysio , Patricia & Joao Silva, Cleber Luciano, Franjinha
Miller, Fabio Santos, Wander Braga, Kiko, Rodrigo Antunes, Mikah,
Juliano Prado and a few others whose name escape me but I'll
be sure to hear from :) !
The
last day consisted mostly of third place matches and finals.
In the Black Belt lights, Amal Easton defeated a game Rodrigo
Teixeira by points in a great battle full of positional exchanges.
The light finals saw Nino Schembri submit former student Cameron
Earle by arm bar.
The
heavyweight dream match featuring Marcio 'Pa de Pano' Cruz v
Saulo Ribeiro was a 35 minute war that in the end had Pano as
the victor by a 12 x 0 margin. The score however didn't reflect
the actual match with Saulo sweeping Pano three times and Pano
returning fire with great pass attempts and some sick guard moves.
In the end, the weight difference was too much and Pano took
the loot. Saulo and Pano are definetely two of the best in the
World today and everyone that saw the match will atest to this!
Other
exciting matches saw Ryron Gracie win the overall title by submission
only to be matched by brother Rener. Their efforts did not go
unnoticed as they were later awarded their well deserved Black
Belt by Grandmaster Helio Gracie. Good job guys! Brown Belt Thiago
Vella continued to show his technique on the way to two great
wins and the trip to Rio.
The
match of the evening was between Paragon's Jeff Glover and Dennis
Asche from the Machado Team. Glover, demonstrated an incredible
amount of heart and technique while fighting against a heavier
and very skilled fighter. After a wild several minutes when he
was about to lose by points, Glover somehow 'Houdinied' a triangle
choke on his opponent that was so tight he almost tapped, but
instead lifted and slammed Glover to the mat. Glover injured
himself and failed to continue but the crowd rewarded his effort
with a wild ovation.
Rorion,
Rose and the crew are all to be congratulated for a great tournament!
Source:
ADCC
Submission
Wrestling World Championships
A Look At Who Is In!
5th World Championships in ADCC's Submission Wrestling Scheduled
For May 17th and 18th, 2003 in Sao Paulo, Brazil
The
16 man tournaments of the Submission Wrestling World Championships
have featured the top grappling martial artists in the world
throughout the first 4 editions. In keeping with tradition, the
full field is a closely guarded secret, known only to the inner
circles at the Abu Dhabi Combat Club.
However,
heading into the 5th Submission Wrestling World Championships,
the ADCC has developed the regional qualifying tournaments to
account for a quarter of the invitations issued. Along with the
returning champions, four qualifying tournaments allow us our
clearest picture of the upcoming championships! So for those
keeping track... Who is in so far?
2001
CHAMPIONS:
65.9 KG & under: ROYLER GRACIE (Brazil)
66-76.9 KG: MARCIO FEITOSA (Brazil)
77-87.9 KG: SANAE KIKUTA (Japan)
88-98.9 KG: RICARDO ARONA (Brazil)
99 KG & Up: MARK ROBINSON (South Africa)
NORTH
AMERICAN TRIAL CHAMPIONS:
65.9 KG & under: EDDIE BRAVO (JJ Machado)
66-76.9 KG: PABLO POPOVICH (American Top Team)
77-87.9 KG: DAVID TERRELL (Cesar Gracie JJ)
88-98.9 KG: DEAN LISTER(City Boxing)
99 KG & Up: MIKE WHITEHEAD (Victory Athletics)
AUSTRALIAN
TRIAL CHAMPIONS:
65.9 KG & under: CHRIS DERKSON
66-76.9 KG: GEORGE SOTIROPOULOS
77-87.9 KG: TRAVERS GRUBB
88-98.9 KG: ANTHONY PEROSH
99 KG & Up: SOA PELELEI
EUROPEAN
TRIAL CHAMPIONS:
65.9 KG & under: TEEMU LAUNIS (Finland)
66-76.9 KG: JUSSI TAMMELIN (Finland)
77-87.9 KG: ROBERT SULSKI (Poland)
88-98.9 KG: ILIR LATIFI (Sweden / Albania)
99 KG & Up: MIKA ILMAN (Finland)
BRAZILIAN
TRIAL CHAMPIONS:
65.9 KG & under: RANY YAYHRA
66-76.9 KG: DANIEL MORAES (Gracie)
77-87.9 KG: RONALDO 'JACARE' (Gracie)
88-98.9 KG: ALEXANDRE 'Cacareco' FERREIRA (RUAS VT)
99 KG & Up: MARCIO 'Pe De Pano' CRUZ (Gracie)
Source:
ADCC
K-1's
Ishii Arrested
The former K-1 president, Kazuyohsi Ishi, who recently resigned
from K-1, was arrested on Monday, February 3rd in Tokyo, Japan.
The arrest stems from a prolonged investigation for tax evasion
and fraud charges.
Japanese
news sources are reporting that the Tokyo Tax Bureau finally
made an arrest after nearly a 6 month probe into Ishii's personal
and business dealings.
Ishii
had resigned from K-1 after internal pressure from the company
and the ongoing investigation that tarnished his reputation in
the news.
There
are more details that will surface. But it appears that the investigation
will have penalties for tax evasion totaling approxinmately $1.7
million dollars. The initial amount in question was believed
to be $4-6 million.
Ishii
has ducked legal problems for a long time, however it appears
Ishii has run out of time. More details in the next few days,
as they become available.
Source: ADCC
2/3/03
Quote
of the Day
"Use
what talent you possess: the woods would be very silent if no
birds sang except those that sang best."
Henry Van Dyke
Warriors
Of The Ring II
Maui War Memorial Gymnasium
Wailuku, Maui
February 16, 2003
Warriors of the Ring returns for their second event. The first
event brought in the largest crowd of MMA fans that Maui has
ever seen and for this show it looks like the promoters wanted
to appease Maui fight fans by filling the card with Maui fighters.
Get your tickets early and get a good seat because the event
is only two weeks away.
Preliminary Bouts:
1.
Scott Tam (Maui Full Contact) vs. Charles Hendrickson (Freelance)
2.
Ednor Lat (Maui Full Contact) vs. Robert Billianor (Lockdown
Unlimited)
3.
Keola Cabalero (Wailuku Kickboxing) vs. John Nerveza Jr. (Bulls
Pen)
4.
Lucky Keefner (Maui Full Contact) vs. Paulo Lupi (Brazilian Freestyle
J.J.)
5.
Patrick Clark vs. To be announced opponent
Co-Main
Event:
6. Anthony Billianor (Lockdown Unlimited) vs. Palmer Fuga (Kona
Boxing Club)
Main
Event:
7. J.R. Baraldon (Maui Full Contact) vs. Tien Nguyen (Wailuku
Kickboxing)
Source:
Event Promoter
Ultimate
Fighting Championship's Dan "the Beast" Severn to be
honored by the HMAIS
January
16, 2003, It was announced today that legendary UFC Competitor
Dan "the Beast" Severn will be honored by the Hawaii
Martial Arts International Society in Las Vegas , NV on July
12, 2003. He will be inducted in the Hawaii Martial Arts International
Society's prestigious Martial Arts Hall Of Fame. "His background
is nothing less than amazing and we are honored to have him among
our elite group" Stated HMAIS Chairman Professor Jaime Abregana
Jr.
Dan
Severn is among several well known martial artist that are being
honored at the HMAIS Banquet. Each honoree is chosen from a sizeable
group and then examined thoroughly by the Hall of Fame Committee
before chosen.
The
Hawaii Martial Arts International Society 2003 4th Annual Hall
of Fame Awards Banquet is part of an action packed weekend of
events including the ever popular Legends & Masters Seminar,
where you can learn from the most accomplished Pioneers, Grand
Masters and Masters around today, also to top off this incredible
weekend is an Open martial arts tournament - this all takes place
in Las Vegas , Nevada , USA July 12 & 13, 2003 at the Sahara
Hotel & Casino.
For
more information contact call (808) 271-0225 or visit our website
at www.hmaisociety.com
Prof.
Jaime Abregana Jr.
Hawaii Martial Arts International Society
P.O. Box 2106
Ewa Beach, HI 96706 - USA
(808) 271-0225
Source:
Prof. Jaime Abregana Jr.
2/2/03
Quote
of the Day
You
don't get paid for the hour. You get paid for the value you bring
to the hour.
Jim
Rohn
IGJJF
Update
Relson
Gracie Hawaii student, Harris Brumer won his first two matches
(first one by points and second one by arm bar), but lost on
points in his third. Gracie Austin's Phil Cardella went in with
a bad knee and it cost him his first match unfortunately. Kamole
Jiu-Jitsu's Eben Kaneshiro performed well winning his first match.
Ralek and Rener Gracie had wars and came out on top.
IGJJF
- The Experiment Worked and How ! ! !
by: Kid Peligro
Day one of the First IGJJF Open just ended and the general consensus
is that the new rules worked GREAT! The goals of attaining fast
paced matches with objective of submission was acchieved and
well proven with a large number of submissions in the various
matches.
Day
one highlights included Ryron Gracie submission win in the semifinal
against a very large Kurt Osiander- Ralph Gracie brown belt (sorry
I didn't get your name). Daniel Mc Gowan continuous display of
tecnique in the purple along with Ralek Gracie who submitted
his semi as well. Another sensational match, in the Blues saw
Paragon's Jeff Glover submit wunderkid Johny Orozko via arm bar.
The
big question going into everyone's mind was if the rules would
work for the Black Belts however . . . and they did. In the lightweights
Nino Schembri won his first match by submission against a tough
Black Belt from Pedro Carvalho Team while Cameron Earle submitted
Amal Easton with a knee bar, in a very tough match that had Amal
ahead by points up to that point.
The
heavies opened with Fabio Leopoldo surprising Macaco early with
a clock choke for the submission. The opposite bracket opened
with Marcio 'Pe de Pano' Cruz defeat of Gabriel Vella (above)
by a score of 14 x 0. That score however does not reflect the
true spirit of the battle. Vella maintained good posture as he
attempted to passPano's guard forcing the current World Absolute
champion to display all of his 'Dammed Guard' repertoire to contain
Gabriel's attacks. After some time hwoever Pano began to impose
his game as he showed why he is the Champ.
The
match of the night however was semifinal number two, featuring
Saulo Ribeiro against Fabio Leopoldo. The 28 minute battled saw
both warriors exchange great attacks and attempted subs, including
Fabio's 'exequiel' choke, two clock chokes and a lower leg attack,
while Saulo countered with a back assault of his own. At one
point after some 20 minutes the two fighters smiled at each other
acknowledging their effort. After a rule reversal Saulo had Fabio
in his guard and in a lighting quick move caught Fabio with an
arm-lock. A serious point here is the fact that they both deserved
to win, this time Saulo capitalized on the opportunity but huge
kudos go to Fabio for his demonstration of skill and heart!
If
you missed to day, you better not miss tomorrow as Saulo v Pe
de Pano has the potential to be the battle of the century! Of
course there will be many other great matches to witness as ewell.
Be
there early as the matches will start at 10:00 sharp! ! ! And
check out the mini-gallery below! Full report on Monday!
Source:
ADCC
Edwards
In A Whole New Fight
What was supposed to be a replacement for Josh Thomson in a 155
LB bout at UFC 41 against the enigmatic Genki Sudo has turned
into a whole new fight. Instead of a Thomson vs. Sudo, it's now
Yves Edwards vs Rich Clementi. Edwards last bout was in the UFC
ended with a bang as he almost kicked the head off of Joao Pierini
back at UFC 37.5. Clementi is coming in with a 9-4 mark and all
9 wins are by KO or tap out.
Other
fighters that were approached by Zuffa before Clementi were Ray Cooper and Rich Crunkilton,
but both had obligations that would not allow them to participate
in the event with only one month's notice. Clementi was able
to back out of his prior fight obligations with another promotion
as they had found a suitable replacement for him.
Genki
Sudo, claiming injury and unable to participate on the February
28th card, showed up at a K-1 press conference, not long after
bowing out of the UFC, announcing his involvement in the K-1
grand Prix, taking place only one day after his formerly scheduled
UFC appearance. His claimed hip injury now comes into question.
Genki's camp announced that his doctor explained that his hip
injury could become aggravated if he grapples, but not by kickboxing.
Expect the Sudo-Thomson fight to take place at UFC 42.
Source:
MMA Ring Report
Sean
Sherk Interview Part 3
by: Keith Mills
KM:
Your last two fights in the UFC. I personally missed both of
those. The Jutaro Nakao one in UFC 36 Worlds Collide, how do
you view that fight now?
SS:
I think it was a good fight. I watched the tape quite a few times
and Nakao was a very passive fighter so he was backing up a lot
on the feet. What he wants people to do is get frustrated and
make a mistake and that’s when he’ll finish you off.
That’s what he did against DeSouza (UFC 33 9/28/01), that’s
what he did against LaVerne Clark (HOOKnSHOOT 5/26/01), that’s
what he did against Miletich (Super Brawl 11 2/2/99)…I knew
that coming in. My thing was I was going to push the pace and
not make any mistakes. He’s backing up on the feet so I’m
going to set up my shots, get him on the ground, and nullify
his game. On the ground he wanted to hold a lot, hold my head
and kept his guard real tight, and tried to hold onto my arms.
I was able to keep the fight pretty active.
KM:
I noticed that one ended in a decision. In your early career
up to 2000 or so you seemed to get a lot of decisions and then
you went on a string starting around 2001 of submissions, TKOs,
a draw…you have that one decision in a run of non-decisions.
Was that a disappointment that you didn’t get a finish?
SS:
I really wanted to finish but Nakao has never been finished in
30 fights (Note: Nakao lost in Shooto by submission in ’96
and TKO in ’00). He’s fought Sakurai, some great great
fighters and nobody has ever finished him. He’s not an easy
guy to finish. Given the rules like you can’t knee on the
ground to the head…I might have been able to get a finish
if that was the case but Nakao did a really good job of hanging
in there, especially on the ground where I can really light people
up once I get them down. He kind of nullified my ground and pound.
I did get some good digs in on him though.
KM:
Was it in any way a redemption to go back to getting a TKO against
Benji Radach?
SS:
Yeah, definitely. That’s what I wanted. I don’t want
decisions, I hate winning by decision. The crowd don’t like
it, the UFC don’t like it, I don’t like it so I want
to try to go out there and finish everyone I fight. That definitely
felt good. Out of my three UFC fights I have one decision and
two finishes.
KM:
That is a reason I was asking about being off for 2000 because
that seemed to be the turning point. I was wondering if you changed
anything in your training in that time. You suddenly went from
a run of decisions to a run of TKOs.
SS:
I think I just got better over that period of time. When I first
started fighting when I’d punch on the ground it wasn’t
as effective. I wasn’t aiming. I was just throwing punches
to throw punches and I didn’t care where I was hitting the
guy. Now I actually aim for eyes and jaw, try to cut him and
try to knock him out. Now I actually have focus when I’m
throwing punches on the ground. Back then I didn’t. That’s
probably what made a difference right there.
KM:
How do you look back at the Benji fight?
SS:
That was a good fight; Benji is really tough. I didn’t realize
he was as good of a wrestler as he was. Got a really good sprawl,
surprisingly strong for a guy who is 6’1 170 but he also
dropped from 190. It was a good fight; he was sprawling and throwing
punches. As soon as I got it on the ground I was able to take
control at that point.
KM:
I noticed you have three submissions; the keylock in your first
Ultimate Wrestling in ’99, I saw the Tiki shoulder dislocated
slam the internet lists as a submission, and then UCC6 a rear
naked choke. We’re not used to seeing wrestling based fighters
doing rear naked chokes. Did you pick up anything different going
into UCC?
SS:
I work a lot of submissions but I just don’t really get
a chance to use them. I’m not going to give up my position
to go for a submission, I’d rather just punch somebody but
the guy gave me his back so it was just there. I won that last
fight the same way, by rear naked choke.
KM:
Oh, the one in Ultimate Wrestling in December. So how does it
feel to get a couple submissions on your record?
SS:
Feels good. I love putting a submission on a guy and watching
them tap out.
KM:
What was your perception of the UCC?
SS:
I think UCC is a great show. When I fought there they had like
7500 people, it was a packed house. They did the pay-per-view
thing, had a packed house, treat the fighters really good so
I thought it was great. They did all kinds of great things for
me. The promoters of the show brought VCRs up to my room and
brought video tapes of the guy I was fighting so I could watch
them and study them for a few days.
KM:
I’ve never heard of anybody doing that before. How do you
feel the 170 class as a whole looks right now?
SS:
I think it’s diverse. I think 170 is probably one of the
toughest divisions out there right now. There are so many tough
guys that can pretty much do it all. It’s definitely a tough
weight class, not an easy weight class by any means. I consider
myself to be kind of small for the weight class because these
guys are dropping from 190. I’m 175 on a heavy day so I’m
not really dropping too much weight.
KM:
That is one of my concerns is that Hughes is very good at dropping
the weight and getting it back again. How do you feel about that
prospect?
SS:
That’s something I’ve dealt with ever since I’ve
been fighting at this weight class so it’s not going to
change now. I know Hughes is strong but I don’t think he’s
going to overpower me that much. It’s not like I’m
a weak guy either. I’ve been wrestling for twenty years
and I lift weights every single day so I think I’ll be comparable,
even giving up five pounds.
KM:
Considering (Matt Hughes’ manager) Monte Cox used to manage
you are there any hard feelings or tension over this?
SS:
I don’t think so, there is not with me. We’ve talked
a few times since then and everything seems good. There are no
hard feelings with me. Basically I had to leave; I needed to
fight in the UFC and that wasn’t happening. Duane Zinkin
is my manager now.
With
the bout official look for Sean to finally get a title shot against
his old teammate at UFC 42.
Source:
ADCC
The
Brazilian Beat
by Eduardo Alonso
MECA
8 in the Works;
Barreto Ready to Debut K-1 style;
Anderson back in STORM!
After a short hiatus, the Brazilian Beat is once again back in
great fashion! January comes to an end with an avalanche of news
about fighting events appearing everywhere in Brazil, giving
hope that 2003 will be an even better year than 2002 for fight
fans and professionals in Brazil. The eighth edition of MECA
World Vale Tudo already has a date and is in the works, bringing
some exciting action in the month of April! Bitetti Combat Nordeste
is planning another edition of the event for March, and this
time in bigger style. Submission wrestling continues to ride
Abu Dhabi's wave in the country and all the big names of the
sport are about to compete once again in Campos. Stand-up fight
fans will have their hands full with K-1 Brazil and the STORM
Grand Prix coming up, bringing two great attractions to the ring
with NHB fighters Carlos Barreto and Anderson Silva appearing
in the respective events! Well, now that we've given you a taste
of what's in this edition of "The Beat" don't hesitate
and get into the rhythm for a long and lasting Brazilian Beat,
courtesy of Full Contact Fighter!
The 8th edition of Brazil's premiere NHB event is already scheduled
and in the works! MECA World Vale Tudo 8 will take place on April
26th, once again at the Palacio de Cristal in Curitiba, the same
venue where all the previous editions of the show were held,
and the event promises some intense battles! FCF found out some
of the matches that will take place on the card, and they look
very interesting on paper. The long awaited match between Ryan
Gracie's student Marcelo Giudice and Luta Livre legend Eugenio
Tadeu is now confirmed by the promoters. Giudice challenged Eugenio
inside the ring during MECA 7, and Tadeu promptly accepted the
challenge, now the fight is on for MECA 8 as the main event!
Tadeu
vs. Giudice is not the only match scheduled so far for MECA 8
in April 26th, another very interesting fight will be the return
of the Chute Boxe prodigy Mauricio "Shogun" Rua, brother
of PRIDE fighter Murilo "Ninja" Rua, who will be facing
MECA veteran and Brazilian Top Team member Roan "Jucao"
Carneiro in another Chute Boxe vs. BTT classic. Another BTT member,
who will also be returning to the MECA ring, after his win at
MECA 7, is Haroldo Cabelinho Bunn, who will face MECA 5 winner
Katel Kubis. MECA 6 winner Daniel Acacio will face off against
Barra Gracie fighter Cristiano Lazarini. The card will also feature
Chute Boxe fighter Israel facing MECA veteran Bicudo, and Chute
Boxe master Cunha making his MECA debut! Jorge Macaco Patino
will also appear on the card and Claudionor Fontinelli will perform
as well to show everybody deserves a second chance in life. The
promoters are planning a 9-fight card, and FCF will continue
to keep a close eye on the developments.
3-time
PRIDE winner Ricardo Arona is continuously training hard in the
city of Niteroi, in the state of Rio de Janeiro, getting ready
for the challenges that lie ahead in 2003. Arona is waiting for
a possible appearance at PRIDE 25 in March, and continues to
look for a shot at the PRIDE Middleweight belt. In the meantime,
Ricardo told FCF that he is also preparing himself for his Superfight
against Mark Kerr at the Abu Dhabi Submission Wrestling tournament
in Sao Paulo in May, and he guarantees he won't disappoint his
fans.
UFC
Heavyweight contender Pedro "The Rock" Rizzo is also
training very hard for his bout at the next UFC against Vladimir
"The Janitor" Matyushenko. Rizzo has been training
as hard as ever and could be seen at the Abu Dhabi Brazilian
Trials in great shape. Pedro told FCF he is already weighing
what he plans to weigh on the day of the fight and is taking
this fight very seriously as a new beginning for him in the UFC.
Speaking
of Pedro Rizzo, his long time friend and K-1 superstar Peter
Aerts is once again in Brazil training with the Ruas Vale Tudo
team in Rio de Janeiro. Aerts told Full Contact Fighter he is
taking the chance to once again practice some more ground fighting
and NHB style, and he is looking to possibly sign a deal to make
his NHB debut in 2003! However K-1 is still in his plans as well,
and in the meantime, he guaranteed Rizzo's hands will be sharp
for his bout against Vladdy.
After
the success of the first Bitetti Combat Nordeste, promoters Conrado
and Jiu-Jitsu black belt Amaury Bitetti are already working on
the next edition of the event. Bitetti Combat 2 is likely to
take place on March 20th or 21st of 2003, once again in the beautiful
city of Natal, and some fights are already in the works. Bitetti
Combat winner Silmar Rodrigo will face NHB veteran Johil de Oliveira,
Capoeira [Not the same guy who fought at MECA 7] will fight against
Paulo Guerreiro, and the card will also include some Brazilian
Top Team members, NHB veteran Mario Sucata, and even the chance
of Marcelo Tigre appearing on the card. FCF will stay tuned and
bring you the latest about Bitetti Combat 2 in the next editions
of "The Brazilian Beat".
Still
on the Bitetti Combat subject, promoter Conrado is also putting
on a sort of circuit, with small shows going around the Northeast
of Brazil to develop talent and give young local fighters a chance
to appear. The best fighters will perform in Bitetti Combat in
the future and the first event following this project is happening
on the 31st of January, in a small city called Caico. The show
is called RN Vale Tudo, with the main event being a fight between
two winners of the first Bitetti Combat Nordeste. Aranha, who
has a similar style to Wanderlei Silva, facing Carlos Indio,
who scored the quickest knockout in the Bitetti Combat show.
FCF will bring you the results in the next "Brazilian Beat".
Carlos
Barreto
Promoter Sergio Batarelli is also working hard with his effort
to bring K-1 to Brazil. In fact, the K-1 Brazil event is scheduled
for February 23rd in Sao Paulo, at the gorgeous Maksud Plaza
Hotel, with an eight-man tournament, including MECA veteran Carlinhos
and more importantly IVC, PRIDE, UFC and MECA veteran Carlos
Barreto will be in the brackets! Barreto will fight against a
boxer named Luis Aparecido dos Santos in the first fight. This
will be Barreto's Pro Muay Thai debut. In addition, the event
will also have an alternate fight between Pantera Negra and Michael
Bulla and a special fight for the Brazilian WKN Muay Thai championship
between Marfio Junior and Alexander da Silva. FCF will be there
covering all the action.
Already
training hard for his K-1 debut, Brazilian Top Team member Carlos
Barreto spoke with FCF during the Brazilian Abu Dhabi trials
and told us he is feeling very confident about his Muay Thai
skills. His training with professor Paulo Nikolai has been sharpening
up his stand-up abilities a lot, and he will enter the tournament
looking for knockouts and thinking about taking the trophy home!
Barreto is also preparing for a submission wrestling bout against
Alexandre Cacareco in early February and wants to fight a lot
of NHB in 2003, since he told FCF he now understands the need
to be aggressive and put a show for the fans, because according
to him everybody wants to see an exciting fighter, and that's
what he became. Let's keep following his steps!
After
the Abu Dhabi Brazilian Trials, all of the submission wrestling
fans in Brazil are now focused on the Second Submission Wrestling
competition in Campos, Rio de Janeiro, scheduled to happen on
February 7th and 8th of 2003. Besides the superfight Between
Carlos Barreto and Alexandre Cacareco, and all the big names
entering the main brackets in each weight division such as De
La Riva, Johil de Oliveira, Gustavo Ximu, Vinicius Draculino,
Eduardo Jamelao, among others, the Absolute division is looking
great with competitors such as Alex Negao Paz from the BTT, ADCC
Brazilian trials champion Marcio "Pe de Pano" Cruz,
Roan Carneiro, Alexandre Cacareco Ferreira, Mario Sucata, Eduardo
Jamelao and more names to be announced! FCF will continue to
bring you the submission wrestling action happening in Brazil.
Chute
Boxe fighter and NHB veteran Fabio Piemonte has been training
hard in Curitiba and is preparing for his comeback. According
to the Chute Boxe team coach Rudimar Fedrigo, Fabio has been
training as hard as ever both standing up and on the ground,
and is polishing his skills and improving his cardio to make
a comeback in the heavyweight division and appear in NHB events
still this year. Fabio, who already fought against PRIDE fighter
Gilbert Yvel in the past, is reported to now have way better
ground skills than before, and we will continue to follow his
development.
Early
April will bring a great stand-up event in Brazil with the first
ever STORM Muay Thai Grand Prix! The Beautiful Opera de Arame
in Curitiba will once again hold some fierce Muay Thai action
on April 5th of 2003, but this time in a way bigger fashion.
The STORM Grand Prix will feature two tournaments, one for fighters
up to 85 kg and another for fighters above 85kg, plus three single
fights. Chute Boxe master and Promoter Rafael Cordeiro is already
working on a open TV deal to be announced soon, and there's a
chance that SPORTV will also broadcast the event, which will
have K-1 veteran Jamanta representing the Chute Boxe academy
in the above-85kg class, and none other than PRIDE fighter Anderson
Silva representing the team in the up-to-85 kg class! Anderson,
in spite of all his NHB success, loves Muay Thai and still has
a K-1 dream on his mind, therefore he insisted on being part
of the STORM Grand Prix, which will bring the very best Muay
Thai fighters Brazil has to offer to Curitiba and FCF will surely
be there as well!
One
minute and thirteen seconds. That’s all it took for, hands
down, the best lightweight of the mixed martial arts world to
be defeated. Dethroned. Dismantled. Destroyed. Ouch. Where do
we go from here? Better yet; where do Duane “Bang”
Ludwig and Jens “Little Evil” Pulver go from here?
The possibilities, as they seem, are endless. In one of the most
shocking upsets in recent MMA history, the entire spectrum of
the lightweight division has been totally shaken, as well as
stirred.
Step
inside the realm of MMA’s lightweight division. Before that
blustery January night in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, inside the
Pierre Charbonneau Center, Jens Pulver solitarily sat atop the
mountain of the world’s best 154 pounders. On a wondrous
unbeaten streak that perpetuated more than three years, more
than 1,095 days, Pulver was invincible. Amid that streak, he
walked through John Lewis, Caol Uno, Dennis Hallman, Takehiro
Murahama and BJ Penn. Most thought he was unbeatable because
of his raw punching power and ground defense skills that are
second to none. Others thought it was his undying thirst and
unnerving hunger to be the best.
Pulver
had been praying for an opponent with the balls to actually stand
in there and bang with him. Well, he finally got what he begged
for; an opponent who stood there and Banged with him. After Pulver
just missed with a left hook, Ludwig countered that with a crushing
left hook that instantly dropped Little Evil. As he was falling,
though, Pulver shot in for a takedown, but was far too woozy
to execute it. Ludwig was able to sprawl away from the shoot
and scramble back to his feet. Pulver then entangled himself
into the ropes, prompting the referee to halt the action and
reset the fighters in center ring. Pulver, staggering towards
Ludwig as though he was stepping in holes, was able to block
a high left kick from his determined foe, but never saw the crippling
right cross that ended the fight. Once it connected, Pulver was
out like a light and crashed onto the canvas and partially through
the ropes. Within a mere seventy-three seconds, the reigning
monarch of the lightweight universe was disposed of and sent
rummaging through his head to clear the cobwebs.
From
here, Ludwig has nowhere to go but down, if you think about it.
He just scorched the cream of the lightweight crop. The best
guess is that the UCC offers Ludwig a hefty pay raise and a lucrative
contract, if K-1 doesn’t get to him first. Actually, Shooto
and/or Pride might come calling now that he’s hot stuff.
However, if Ludwig doesn’t like what he sees on the aforementioned
MMA platinum platter, there’s no doubt that my boys over
at Zuffa will come calling, not using 1-800-Collect, either.
Here they have the man who just beat The Man, who, in turn, beat
their proverbial Prodigy, the one that was to be bigger than
Tito Ortiz. Now, UFC has thrown together a killer rematch between
BJ and Uno, with the winner getting Pulver’s vacated title.
Wouldn’t it be great if Ludwig signed on to face the winner?
It’d be MMA’s true lightweight champ against Zuffa’s
newest titlist. There’s not a chance in hell that Uno would
even dare to stand toe-to-toe with Ludwig. Hell, after what Penn
did to him several months back in just eleven seconds, (and let’s
face it; Penn has nowhere near the explosive standing firepower
that Ludwig has) that’d be like strapping chum to his chest
and leaping head first into a lagoon full of bull sharks. And
if Penn would get a crack at Ludwig, it’s doubtful he’d
stand up with him for too long. Either he’d be blasted out
of the ring like Pulver, or he’d successfully shoot early
and capitalize on his superior ground skills.
As
for Pulver, there is no way in the world that this minor glitch
in his prerequisite plans of MMA immortality will submit him
for long. He’s probably either in the gym beating up on
everyone in the Miletich camp as you read this, or letting his
emotions out on some sucka in SOCOM. He’ll assuredly gun
for an immediate rematch with Ludwig and if the UCC is as smart
as they appear to be (considering what they’ve achieved
thus far), they’ll sign that fresh new contract in blood.
Can you imagine the numbers the rematch would generate? Sure,
it wouldn’t come close to a Felix Trinidad/Oscar De La Hoya
rematch, but it’d be enormous to the MMA community. Like
Pulver said after the jostling defeat, “Three years undefeated,
I guess it has to come to an end sometime. What happened last
time I lost? I dominated the world.” And dominate he did.
We’ll just have to wait with baited breath for what unfolds
hereafter.
So,
what does this all mean? Well, it certainly means that, unfortunately
for Jens and his fans, he is no longer the lightweight top dog.
After being ousted in such the manner that he was, it’s
unthinkable to rank him at the #1 spot. Pulver has been the undisputed
king of the second smallest weight class in our beloved sport
through virtue of the Mixed Martial Arts Media (MMAM) ranking
system, the only votes that count. Until now, there was no question
as who was at the top. It has been Jens all along, and beneath
him was a mixture of the now-usual suspects of Penn, Uno, Takanori
Gomi, Dokonjonosuke Mishima, and Din Thomas. Hell, Duane Ludwig
wasn’t even ranked among the top ten on that coveted MMAM
list!
In
my eyes, Ludwig catapults himself from obscurity (vote-wise)
to the #1 spot. If you beat the number-one guy, you should, in
turn, be number-one, correct? I think so. Even though Ludwig
is primarily a Muay Thai/kickboxer, he has a storied history
in MMA. A veteran of both King of the Cage and Gladiators Challenge
before taking out Pulver in the UCC, Ludwig has only lost a few
times. Sure, he hasn’t feasted upon the stunning competition
that the others have, but handing losses to guys like Charles
Bennett, Thomas Denny and Ressen Messer isn’t too shabby.
Now, does he belong above such names like Penn, Gomi and Uno?
That certainly leaves a gaping room for debate considering the
level of opposition those in question have faced. One would think
it’s a no-brainer to rank Gomi and Penn above Ludwig, but
is that fair? When Hasim Rahman, a virtual nobody to the general
public, thwarted Lennox Lewis when they first met, he was automatically
the world’s top heavyweight in boxing. Even though we in
the MMAM don’t issue the fighters actual championship belts
(yet), Ludwig should be ranked #1.
I’m
sure this is utter blasphemy around most MMA internet circles,
and there’s no question I’ll receive a ton of hate
mail for this article, but let’s face it; Duane Ludwig is,
right now, alone atop the steep alpestrine cliff that is the
lightweight division.
Source:
Sherdog
2/1/03 Happy
Chinese New Year
Quote
of the Day
You
don't get paid for the hour. You get paid for the value you bring
to the hour.
Jim
Rohn
Kung
Hee Fat Choy
Happy Chinese New Year Logan
& Katelyn at 9 months (and yes, they are part Chinese)
When we were
traveling with some fighters on the big island at BJ Penn's event,
it was pointed out by HMC's David Yeung that there are very few
Chinese guys in MMA. Kind of weird, but true. For those few and
the proud, Onzuka.com wishes you and everyone else a Happy Chinese
New Year!
The
Pacific Fighting Championships
are coming together
PFC will be
the first MMA event to be held on Oahu under the stars. It will
take place at the Waikiki Shell Amphitheatre. Due to scheduling
conflicts, the PFC has been moved to April 17th.
The PFC's card is almost complete, but they are still looking
for a few professional and amateur fighters. They are especially
looking for heavyweight fighters. Call the matchmaker, Brennan
Kamaka at (808) 696-7844 if you are interested in fighting in
the event.
SuperBrawl
28 Line-up
Saturday,
February 8, 2003
Neil Blaisdell Center
Fights start at 7:30 PM
Get your
tickets now!
170lbs
2x5 minute rounds
Nassor Lewis (808 Fight Factory) 3-3
vs.
Brandon Keen 170lbs (Grappling Unlimited) 1-0
Two young aggressive fighters who are looking to move up the
Super Brawl ranks. The more experienced Lewis has a solid wrestling
background and does not like to give his opponents a second to
breathe. Keen, a Grappling Unlimited student, has solid ground
skills and has been working on his stand-up. Experience will
be the edge in this fight. Lewis 3-2 favorite
161lbs
2x5 minute rounds
Jay R. Palmer 155lbs (Rough Houzers) 22-20
vs.
Harris Sarriento 155lbs (808 Fight Factory) 1-3
The always game Palmer will once again step between the ropes.
He has fought all levels of fighters with mixed success. Sarriento
has recently moved to the 808 Fight Factory camp and thinks the
new training environment will be a plus . Pick 'em Even Odds
143lbs
2x5 minute rounds
Dain Agbayani 141lbs (808 Fight Factory) 2-3
vs.
Justin Mercado 141lbs (Grappling Unlimited) 1-1
Agbayani has a striking background who is becoming well versed
on the ground. Mercado will try to negate Agbayani's experience
with quickness and aggressiveness. Pick 'em Even Odds
167.5lbs
2x5 minute rounds
Deshaun Johnson 165lbs (HMC) 3-3
vs.
Andy Wang 165lbs (Grappling Unlimited) 2-3
This will be a great contrast in styles. Johnson is a "tough
as nails" brawler who is rapidly developing his grappling
skills. Wang is a Jiu-Jitsu specialist with limited striking.
Look for Johnson to win a stand up battle or Wang to submit Johnson
on the ground. Pick 'em Even Odds
165
lbs 2x5 minute rounds
Mark Moreno 165lbs (Bull's Pen) 3-1-1
vs.
"Ice Cold" Kolo Koka 165lbs (Grappling Unlimited)4-3
This has the ear-markings of a great fight! Both young fighters
have tremendous striking ablilities and have shown great chins.
Both are also picking up the ground game quickly. The edge in
power will go to Moreno, while the edge in experience is Koka's.
This one will be close. Pick 'em Even Odds
Heavyweight
2x5 minute rounds
Andre "The Chief" Roberts 366lbs (Team Extreme) 9-1
vs.
Ray "King Kong" Seraille 260lbs (Grappling Unlimited)1-1
Everyone likes to see the big guys bang! Roberts is a world class
fighter who has seen success in the UFC Octagon. He has a brawling
style and will mix it up with the best of them. Kong will have
to weather an early storm and pick "The Chief" off
later in the fight if he expects to upset the veteran. Roberts
6-1 favorite
167.5lbs
2x5 minute rounds
Mike Panalber 170lbs (Shark Tank)
vs.
Ronald Jhun 170lbs (808 Fight Factory) 15-9-2
Panalber is a young game fighter who is looking to make a name
for himself. A win over Jhun would certainly do that. Jhun has
looked very sharp at his new weight of 170lbs. A win here would
surely set up a rematch for the Super Brawl belt with "Mr.
International" Shonie Carter in March. Jhun 2-1 favorite
185lbs
3x5 minute rounds
Tyrone Roberts 185lbs (Team Extreme) 15-2
vs.
Falaniko Vitale 185lbs (Grappling Unlimited) 12-1
Tyrone Roberts is a UFC veteran with tremendous wrestling and
striking skills. He has KO power in both hands as well as the
ability to take an opponents down at will. He is ultra-aggressive
who will "brawl" with anyone. Vitale went undefeated
in 2002 and wants to start the year off in the same fashion.
UFC scouts are watching this fight closely. An impressive performance
may land this local boy in the "big show". Pick 'em
Even Odds
194lbs
2x5 minute rounds
Yukiya Naito 194lbs (A3 Gym, Tokyo) 4-0
vs.
Egan Inoue 182.6lbs (Grappling Unlimited) 12-3 Champion
Naito is all that stands between Inoue and his shot at the Shooto
Champion, Masanori Suda. Naito is a rising star in Japan who
can fight both standing and on the ground. He will also have
a weight advantage over Inoue. Although known for his grappling,
Egan's has won his last two fights by knock out (one with punches
and one headkick) and it will be interesting if he continues
his striking ways. Whether standing or on the ground, the smaller
Inoue will have to use his quickness to his advantage. Inoue
3-2 Favorite
Source:
T. Jay Thompson
The
Arnold Schwarzenegger
World Gracie Submission Championships
The
Arnold Schwarzenegger World Gracie Submission Championships are
just around the corner. Here are some of the updates for this
year's event:
**
Relson Gracie has decided to allow neck cranks in this year's
event. Please note that the neck cranks WILL NOT BE ALLOWED FROM
THE GUARD! This will be explained in detail at the event!
**
We have been gathering a list of some of the teams that will
be represented and they are a virtual "who's who" among
the BJJ community. Teams from the following associations will
be there: Relson Gracie, Royce Gracie, Renzo Gracie, Royler Gracie,
Rickson Gracie, Ribeiro Brothers, Machado Brothers, American
Top Team, Pedro Sauer, Jorge Gurgel, Caique, Rodrigo Vegis, The
Alliance, and many others!
**
As in past events, all the matches will refereed by EXPERIENCED
Black Belt instructors! Rolker Gracie, Robin Gracie, Roberto
Marques Da Silva, Randy Bloom, Marcio Simas, and Caique, just
to name a few.
**
We are currently working on securing prizes to be given to the
winner in both the Gi and No-Gi divisions!
These
are just some of the things were are working on to make this
years Arnold Schwarzenegger World Gracie Submission Championships
the best ever!
Montreal,
Canada-Miletich Martial Arts fighters went 1-2 last weekend in
UCC 12 with Jens “Lil’ Evil” Pulver losing to
Duane “Bang” Ludwig and Anthony “The Freak”
Fryklund losing to David “The Crow” Loiseau while Jason
Black defeated John “The Natural” Alessio in three
of the four belt bouts.
Ever
since UCC 11 last October Miletich Martial Arts have been a major
part of the lineup with the original UCC 11 show scheduled to
have Black, Fryklund, and Pulver along with Jeremy Horn and Jesse
Jones. Although the card was split due to multiple fighters becoming
injured, UCC 11 was when Jones lost his Middleweight belt to
Loiseau while Horn defeated Christophe Midoux in the main event
for the World Light Heavyweight belt.
For
UCC 12 Fryklund was taking on Loiseau to try to bring the World
Middleweight belt back to Bettendorf while Black was fighting
Alessio for the World Welterweight belt and Pulver was the 4-1
favorite to claim the vacant World Lightweight belt over Duane
Ludwig.
Anthony
Fryklund started out in ’97 with his UFC debut which resulted
in a win over Donnie Chappell and a loss to Kevin Jackson. He
came back in ’01 and proceeded to tear into a year and a
half long winning streak including UCC 8 where he beat Jonathan
Goulet, UFC 37.5 where he picked up a TKO over Rodrigo Ruas,
and the famous keylock over Zach Light in WEC 4. Fryklund came
out the aggressor but throughout the fight he had trouble with
Loiseau’s standup, taking a couple kicks, a knee to the
midsection, and eventually a forearm that opened a cut that would
end the fight. Fryklund, not seeming to realize the danger of
his head wound, definitely didn’t want to stop and vocalized
his feelings in the middle of the ring before Pat Miletich seemed
to talk some sense into him and the Freak we all know and love
calmed down and even showed great sportsmanship when obviously
still upset he placed the belt on Loiseau himself. The Freak
losing this one isn’t a knock on him for not doing a good
job at all, it’s credit to Loiseau for being such a great
striker.
One
of Miletich Martial Art’s secret weapons Jason Black may
not be as familiar a name to many fans as it should be but all
that should change with his win over Alessio. Alessio went into
this fight not only with the UCC World Welterweight belt but
is also the proud owner of the KOTC Superfight belt which he
has had ever since beating Chris Brennan. Black is no stranger
to the pressure bouts with his very first fight being a win over
HOOKnSHOOT standout and UFC vet Steve Berger in addition to himself
being a vet of WFA 1 & 3 and UCC 8. Alessio seemed to have
the strategy of constantly backing up on the feet, keeping Black
away from him and counter punching while Black was trying to
close the distance for the takedowns from the very beginning.
In round 1 Alessio was successful in this strategy causing visible
damage to Black’s face while Black chose to go for more
body shots. Starting in round 2 Black’s strategy came on-line
and near the end he managed to score a takedown but it was round
3 that seemed to be all Black as he repeatedly took down Alessio
and landed a couple shots on his way to a decision victory. Although
many of the fans booed Alessio for being boring and retreating
it was a very effective if not overly exciting way to beat Black,
something that nobody has yet been able to do. Alessio should
have won round 1 with Black winning round 3 so the decision apparently
fell to Black’s takedown in round 2.
Jens
Pulver was by far THE name on the card. Two-and-a-half year winning
streak, former UFC Lightweight champion from the time the belt
was issued until he walked away from the bargaining table, #1
ranked Lightweight fighter in the world, and 4-1 favorite Pulver
was looking to take the vacant Lightweight belt from the sights
of Bas Rutten trained Ludwig but anybody who has seen Ludwig
in KOTC knew he would be a challenge. Unpredictably it was Ludwig’s
first knockdown of round 1 that stunned Pulver who managed to
return to his feet only to be knocked down quickly with a straight
right that ended the fight at a little over 1 minute. Ludwig
may have been the better man that night but you can be sure Pulver’s
reputation is barely tarnished and with the lack of hard strikers
at 155 Pulver will be a force to be reckoned with for a long
time to come.
Also
on the card Jermaine Andre lost a decision to Steve Vigneault
but although Andre is still listed in several places as being
a Miletich Martial Arts fighter he lives in St. Louis and doesn’t
train in Iowa nearly as much as the rest.
Next
up for Miletich Martial Arts and Team Extreme we will see Tim
Sylvia take on Ricco Rodriguez for the Heavyweight belt in the
UFC February 28th, Jeremy Horn hopefully twice before the end
of the summer, Pat eventually in the WFA for his fight against
Trigg that was postponed last November, and Hughes defending
his belt against Sean Sherk in UFC 41. Many of these fighters
are expected to attend and are rumored to even be available for
autograph signing in Extreme Challenge next weekend in Iowa.
Source:
ADCC
UFC
40: Vendetta - Post Fight With Andrei Arlovski
A
vastly improved Andrei Arlovski of Minsk, Belarus met cage veteran
Ian Freeman of Sunderland, England in the octagon on November
9, 2002, at UFC 40: Vendetta. The 23-year-old Arlovski exhibited
major improvements in this match lasting just 1:25. The former
World Sambo Champion utilized a new aggressiveness, stand up
combinations and overall physical conditioning to add another
“W” to his record. “Just doing my job,” he
said, Arlovski controlled the match from beginning to end. A
fierce cage competitor, the 249 pound fighter sees himself as
a very calm and peaceful person in everyday life. I caught up
with Arlovski for this post fight interview just before he departed
the United States.
You’re
coming off a win at “UFC 40: Vendetta” against England’s
Ian Freeman. Please tell me about the match.
I expected him to try and break distance in the first seconds
of our fight and get me to the ground, so I controlled the situation
and stopped his intension. I then used combinations of punches
and low kicks... you saw the rest.
How
did you feel at the moment Referee Larry Landless stopped the
match at just 1:25 and awarded you the KO win over Freeman?
I felt very satisfied because I did my job.
Of
your matches I’ve seen (UFC 32, 36 & 40), you were clearly
more aggressive in this match. Where did this aggressiveness
come from?
From my desire to win.
Your
stand up was better then ever, with quick hands landing great
combinations. How have you trained stand up differently?
Indeed. I paid more attention to boxing and worked on both hand
combinations.
Although
heavier, at 249 pounds, then in past UFC matches, you appeared
in better physical shape for this match. What do you attribute
this too?
To my endurance training.
What
are your thoughts on the “thumb in the eye” call by
Freeman?
I didn’t notice that during the fight. If it happened –
it was not intentionally.
What
is your professional MMA record?
9 fights (6 wins – 3 losses)
Tell
me about the Police Academy and how you took a required Sambo
class, then started serious training?
That’s right – at the Police Academy it was required
to take Sambo class. So, I started to do Sambo and soon became
a 2 Time World Champion.
How
did you come to start MMA late at 20?
I was a World Sambo Champion and I loved to watch MMA/NHB fights.
So, in 1998, I decided to give a try.
What
does it mean to hold the rank of International Master Of Sport
(Sambo)?
It is not really easy to get such rank in the country where Sambo
is a National Sport. I’m very proud to have it.
You
played soccer before martial arts. Do you still play soccer?
No.
What
do you do outside of MMA?
If you are asking me about my hobbies, then - nightclubs, girls,
reading books.
What
is next for you?
My next fight.
What
is one thing about Andrei Arlovski that would have people saying,
“Hmmmm... I didn’t know that?”
That in everyday life I am a very calm and peaceful person.
Is
there anything you’d like to say?
See you next time in Octagon!
Source: ADCC
From
The Mount
Since Tito Ortiz seems content to delay his fight with Chuck
Liddell, it led me to wonder: what exactly keeps him up nights
about Liddell. He's beaten top strikers like Vanderlei Silva,
outwrestled Vladimir Matyushenko, and looked better than ever
against Ken Shamrock. But perhaps it's just that Liddell could
well play Holyfield to his Tyson, luring Ortiz into costly assaults
and traps. That's the only way I can figure it. Styles make fights
in mixed martial arts, too, and perhaps Liddell is the exact
kind of guy to beat an Ortiz.
Like
Holyfield, Liddell isn't as powerful as his foe. But a guy like
Ortiz, who is so used to physically dominating people, might
run into the antidote, and that's Liddell's clearly superior
standup game. When Tyson ran out in his first fight with Holyfield,
he cracked him with a perfect right cross in the opening moments.
Holyfield buckled, moved out of trouble, and kept fighting. The
fact that he didn't crumble and kept fighting back unnerved Tyson.
Now, Ortiz is no front-runner like Tyson, but to beat him you've
got to survive an intense opening assault. Chuck seems crafty
and experienced enough to do just this. Liddell might run into
some tough moments, but remember that Frank Shamrock did against
Ortiz, but outlasted him at the end.
Ortiz'
cardio is better these days, and I'd still take him over Liddell,
but the fact is that Ortiz still needs a defining fight against
a top rival in his prime. Ken Shamrock, clearly past his, was
not that opponent. Vitor Belfort and Ortiz could never seem to
stay injury-free long enough to meet. Liddell is that man, and
the credibility of Ortiz, and the UFC to a larger extent, depends
on the light heavyweight champion meeting Liddell.
Short
shots:
How
long until we have the first mixed-gender MMA fight? It will
happen eventually, you know. Somebody will figure out a compelling
enough story line to make an obscene matchup of a 200-lb. female
against some 150-lb. dude, maybe an ex-boyfriend chef type or
something.
Watching
an old IFC video of Igor Vovchanchin-Fred Floyd, it was amazing
to see Igor at a svelte 207 lbs. If the guy had stayed in shape
and kept his weight down, how good a light heavyweight could
he have been? At one time, Vovchanchin was the textbook anti-grappler,
a capable, strike-from-anywhere fighter that gave standup stylists
a glimmer of hope that they could compete with grapplers. Someday
when we're old and gray we'll point to the capable Russian as
an example of how to do damage from any position, no matter how
unenviable it seems.
On
another, it's a bittersweet observation that MMA has been around
long enough to consider some guys less than what they used to
be - even shot fighters. Guess it's got that in common with boxing,
finally.
Have
you ever analyzed the improvement curve of MMA? If you sit around
and watch old UFCs (call it pre-UFC 20) and note that most of
the guys who won then couldn't beat most of the guys that lose
in today's UFC, you know what I'm talking about. Will there be
a day, say, in ten years where everyone in the weltwerweight
division would probably beat Matt Hughes? Or all the heavyweights
would beat Ricco Rodriguez? Don't laugh. It's feasible.
I
would pick all of the better middleweights - Murillo Bustamante,
Phil Baroni, Dave Menne, and Matt Lindland - to beat Royce Gracie,
who seemed invincible when he was dominating the early UFCs.
The improvement curve is flattening out, obviously, but the plain
truth of it is that the earlier someone starts cross-training
in the myriad disciplines demanded of an MMA fighter, the better
they'll be in their physical prime in the mid-20s. I get the
feeling that wrestlers will always be a force to reckon with,
as it's easier to pick up some standup late in life after being
a grappler, than vice-versa - but imagine how good that wrestler
would be if he'd taken standup early in life as a kid.
That
kid is out there now, and many more like him. He'll probably
be an improved version of Bustamante - wicked striking skills
that mirror those of a decent Thai boxer, and top-level submission
abilities. Scary.
