NEWS

 

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CAGE RAGE 25 "Bring it On" - Tonight on Showtime
3-8-2008, Denver, CO

Event date: 3-8-2008
Venue: Wembly Arena, London, England


Showtime TV bouts:
1. Ken Shamrock vs. Robert Berry
2. Masakazu Imanari vs. Jean Silva
3. Gary Turner vs. Mustapha Al Turk
4. Tom Watson vs. Pierre Guillet

Other Bouts:
5. Ivan Serati vs. Roman Webber
6. Rob Broughton vs. Neil Grove
7. Henrique Santana vs. Michael Johnson
8. Aisling Daly vs. Aysen Berik
9. Ryan Shamrock vs. Giorgio Andrews
10. John Hathaway vs. Marvin Arnold
11. Jack Bostwick vs. John Phillips 

 

 

WEC - Announces Full Card Line Up for 'Filho vs Sonnen II'
3-8-2008, Denver, CO

Event date: March 26 live on Versus

Venue: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada


Las Vegas, Nev. (USA) – World Extreme Cagefighting® (WEC™) today announced the full line-up of fights for WEC: Filho vs. Sonnen II. WEC: Filho vs. Sonnen II features the rematch between WEC Middleweight Champion Paulo Filho and talented contender Chael Sonnen, and in addition, WEC Light Heavyweight Champion Doug “The Rhino” Marshall puts his belt on the line vs. “All American” Brian Stann in what is expected to be a stand up war for the ages. WEC: Filho vs. Sonnen II, a card loaded with WEC superstars, contenders, and up and comers, takes place LIVE from the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, NV. on Wednesday, March, 26, 2008. 

Tickets for WEC: Filho vs. Sonnen II are on sale now and are priced at $200, $150, $75 and $25 (not including applicable services or taxes). Tickets are available at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino box office and all Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (702) 474-4000. Tickets also are available online through www.wec.tv or www.ticketmaster.com.

WEC: Filho vs. Sonnen II will be televised live nationally on VERSUS beginning at 9:00 pm ET/6:00 pm PT. All live WEC events will be presented in Hi-Definition (HD) and Spanish language SAP where available. For more information and how to find VERSUS in your local viewing area, visit http://www.versus.com/findversus.

WEC: Filho vs. Sonnen II features a solid undercard with Ed Ratcliff vs. Marcus Hicks; Steve Cantwell vs. Tim McKenzie; Hiromitsu Miura vs. Blas Avena; John Alessio vs. Brock Larson; Sergio Gomez vs. Richard Crunkilton, Ryan Stonitsch vs. Alex Serdyukov Chris Manuel vs. Kenji Osawa, and Logan Clark vs. Bryan Baker. 

Considered by many to be the premier middleweight fighter in the world today, WEC Champion Paulo ‘Eli’ Filho (16-0) has fought the best that the 185-pound division has to offer, both here and abroad, and he has yet to taste defeat. In 2007, Filho made his WEC debut in stirring fashion, stopping Joe Doerksen in the first round to win the organization title. He was pushed to the limit in his first title defense last December though, when Chael Sonnen got him in trouble early and dominated the first round. In the second round, Filho rebounded, catching Sonnen in an armbar with only seconds to go in the frame. And while there was some controversy over whether Sonnen verbally submitted or not, the fight was halted with five seconds left in the round and Filho retained his crown. Yet like a true champion, Filho respected the challenger’s performance and didn’t want his victory to have any question marks surrounding it, so he granted Sonnen a rematch.

Chael Sonnen (21-9-1) left quite an impression in his WEC debut last December with his stellar performance against Filho. But this six-year MMA veteran is no stranger to competing at the top levels of the sport, having beaten world-class fighters such as Jason Miller, Jason Lambert, Trevor Prangley, and Amar Suloev. Now approaching his prime as a fighter at 30, Sonnen plans on bringing the belt home in his second shot on March 26.

One of the hardest hitting competitors to ever set foot in the WEC cage, Light Heavyweight Champion Doug ‘The Rhino’ Marshall (7-2) will always leave opponents knowing that they’ve been in a fight. Winner of three in a row, Marshall – who has fought his entire career in the WEC – showed some new wrinkles in his game in his first title defense last December as he submitted Ariel Gandulla in just 55 seconds.

A first lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps who was awarded the Silver Star for his bravery in battle during the Iraq War, Brian “All-American” Stann (5-0) has made a significant impact in and out of the WEC cage. Inside of it, the 27-year old Pennsylvanian has gotten better and better with each performance en route to a perfect record that has seen all of his bouts end in the first round. In his last match, on September 5th, Stann stopped Jeremiah Billington at 3:07 of the opening frame.

San Diego lightweight Ed “9mm” Ratcliff will return to the cage for the first time since his impressive victory over Alex Karalexis in December, and this charismatic and flashy fighter is looking to continue his climb up the 155-pound ranks at the expense of fellow unbeaten Marcus “The Wrecking Ball” Hicks. Undefeated in his professional career, Hicks burst onto the WEC scene with two impressive submission wins over Sergio Gomez and Scott McAfee. But somebody’s “0” must go on March 26. 

After a spectacular 47 second stoppage of Justin McElfresh last August, Steve Cantwell returns to square off against “The Wrecking Machine”, Tim McKenzie, an aggressive battler who is the last man to defeat current WEC light heavyweight champion Doug Marshall. McKenzie would like nothing better than a rematch against the ‘Rhino’ with the belt on the line, but Cantwell will obviously have something say about that later this month. 

And that’s not all, additional bouts will feature a clash between two former number one contenders looking to fight their way back into a title shot against WEC welterweight champ Carlos Condit, as John Alessio battles Brock Larson. Also on tap, Las Vegan Blas Avena will take on Hiromitsu Miura in his biggest challenge yet. Avena looked impressive in his last outing, submitting Tiki Ghosn in just 29 seconds, but he will have to bring his ‘A’ game once again when he takes on Miura in what should be a crowd pleasing match. 

Rounding out this explosive night of world-class MMA action, always tough Sergio Gomez will battle former world title challenger Richard Crunkilton in a lightweight bout, unbeaten welterweight prospect Ryan Stonitsch will make his WEC debut against veteran Alex Serdyukov, American Top Team’s undefeated lightweight star Chris Manuel will be taking on Japanese standout Kenji Osawa, and once-beaten middleweight Logan Clark will be stepping back into the cage against 6-0 Californian Bryan Baker. 

 

 

YAMMA Pit Fighting Final Fight Card
3-6-2008

Denver, CO

Los Angeles, March 6, 2008 – Today YAMMA Pit Fighting (YPF), a new mixed martial arts (MMA) organization created by Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) founder Bob Meyrowitz, announced the final details of the organization’s first live pay-per-view event. The event, comprised of an eight-man tournament for the title of YAMMA Heavyweight Champion and two ‘Masters Superfights,’ will air live from the Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City on April 11, 2008. Tickets for the event will go on sale March 8 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster or at the Trump Taj Mahal Box Office from March 9 onwards. The live pay-per-view broadcast is available in the United States and Canada through In Demand Networks, TVN Entertainment, Bell ExpressVu, Viewer’s Choice Canada and Dish Network.

The two ‘Masters Superfights’ will feature Eric “Butterbean” Esch versus Gary "Big Daddy" Goodridge and Oleg “The Russian Bear” Taktarov versus Don “The Predator” Frye. The veteran fighters will face off in ‘Masters Superfights,’ one-on-one matches that feature some of MMA’s most illustrious and legendary fighters. The April 11th event will also showcase the skill and endurance of eight fearsome competitors in a tournament match. Tournament fighters include: Marcelo “Pato” Pereira, Sherman Pendergarst, Rex Richards, Tony Sylvester, Chris Tuscherer, Travis “The Diesel” Wiuff, Alexey Oleynik and George Bush. Jeff Blatnick will serve as a commentator for both the Heavyweight Tournament and “Masters Superfights.”

The April 11th event will unveil “The YAMMA,” an evolution of the traditional fighting structure that will change how the fight is fought and the strategy the fighters must use to win. This new “ring” has been specifically designed to keep the fighting more explosive and continuous.

“For YAMMA Pit Fighting’s inaugural event, we’ve brought together some of the greatest MMA veterans as well as some of the best emerging fighters,” said Bob Meyrowitz. “The event will demonstrate that these MMA legends still have a lot to teach and will also advance the tournament fighters towards legendary status themselves.”

Eric "Butterbean" Esch is a professional Super-Heavyweight boxer, kickboxer and mixed martial artist. Esch has held the title of IBA World Super-Heavyweight Champion, as well as the WWA World Heavyweight title. Esch stands 5 ft 11 tall and weighs 398lbs. He has a MMA record of 11 wins with 4 knockouts, 6 losses and 1 draw.

Gary "Big Daddy" Goodridge, a UFC/Pride/K-1 veteran, was born in Trinidad & Tobago and now resides in Ontario, Canada. Goodridge is known for his devastating strikes and showmanship. He first turned heads in the MMA scene with his victory over Paul Herrera in UFC 8. Goodridge is also a top-ranked contender in professional arm wrestling. He stands 6 ft 3 in tall and weighs 240lbs and has a record of 23-15-1.

For the first time in over a decade, MMA will return to its origins by reviving the hugely popular tournament format, in which fighters will participate in multiple fights on their way to claiming the ultimate victory, the title of YAMMA Heavyweight Champion. The format will test the endurance and skill of each fighter, as victory in each round is rewarded not with extended rest, but with another fight. Tournament fighting has long been a huge draw for dedicated MMA fans due to the non-stop action provided by fight-after-fight formatting.


The two newly announced MMA fighters are:
Alexey Oleynik - a 6'1" 220 pound fighter on Russia's #1 team, Red Devil Sports Club, and an M-1 and Bodog veteran with an MMA record of 4-3-0
George Bush – a 6’ 1” 235 pound fighter from Columbus, OH with a MMA record of 5-0-0


The April 11th fight card is as follows:

MASTERS SUPERFIGHTS
Oleg “The Russian Bear” Taktarov VS. Don “The Predator” Frye
Eric “Butterbean” Esch VS. Gary "Big Daddy" Goodridge

8 MAN HEAVYWEIGHT TOURNAMENT
Marcelo “Pato” Pereira
Sherman Pendergarst
Rex Richards
Tony Sylvester
Chris Tuscherer
Travis “The Diesel” Wiuff
Alexey Oleynik
George Bush

Tickets are available through Ticketmaster’s extensive network of 81 ticket centers throughout the Delaware Valley including Boscov’s, Marshalls and select West Coast Video and Gallery of Sound locations or call Ticketmaster’s convenient Charge-by-Phone service at 1-800-736-1420. For Online Information: http://www.ticketmaster.com

 

 

WORLD VICTORY ROAD "SENGOKU" - Results

3-6-2008

National Yoyogi Stadium 1st Gymnasium

Tokyo, Japan

 

1. Josh Barnett defeated Hidehiko Yoshida by foot lock at 3:23 of rd 3
2. Takanori Gomi defeated Duane Ludwig by TKO due to cut at 2:28 of rd 1
3. Kazuo Misaki defeated Siyar Bahadurzada by guillotine choke at 2:02 of rd 2
4. Kazuyuki Fujita defeated Peter Graham by choke at 1:32 of rd 1
5. Evangelista “Cyborg” Santos defeated Makoto Takimoto by foot lock at 4:51 of rd 1
6. Ryo Kawamura defeated Antonio Braga Neto by unanimous decision
7. Nick Thompson def. Fabricio Monteiro by unanimous decision

Watch video of these fights at
http://www.mat-magazine.com/

 

 

LUDWIG READY FOR GOMI FIGHT

3-4-2008

Denver, CO
Story courtesy
www.mmajunkie.com

BANG-GOMI.jpg (22470 bytes)



Developing a game plan for the one of the world's toughest fighters - on a few weeks' notice - would be a challenge for any athlete. But trying to cut down to an extra weight class in the process could be called madness.

But that's exactly what Duane "Bang" Ludwig (16-7) is trying to do for his upcoming fight with former PRIDE lightweight champ Takanori Gomi (27-3). 

The Ludwig-Gomi fight headlines the World Victory Road's debut show, which takes place Wednesday, March 5 at the National Yoyogi Stadium in Tokyo, Japan.
The co main event bout takes place at 154 lbs.

"When I got the call, I was 183 lbs.," said Ludwig, a two-time UFC fighter. "I was supposed to fight Steve Berger (at a Strikeforce show) at 170 lbs., so I was trying to keep on some weight. The call came, so it was time to start dropping the weight."
WVR actually called up Strikeforce promoter Scott Coker to inquire about Ludwig for the fight, and once Ludwig got assurance that Berger wouldn't be left without an opponent, he accepted the fight. 

However, will such a drastic, unexpected cut affect Ludwig's performance?
"Probably," Ludwig admitted. "But we'll see what happened. I couldn't pass up the fight because it's such a great opportunity."

A win over Gomi, arguably the world's top lightweight fighter, could be the biggest victory of of Ludwig's career, though a January 2003 first-round KO of Jens Pulver (when Pulver was in his absolute prime) is right up there.
So, how do you fight Gomi, a fighter who likes to stand and trade but is as equally dangerous with submissions?

"I'm just going to see where the fight goes," Ludwig said. "If I can get a submission, of course I'll take a submission. Ideally, though, I'd like to keep it on the feet and see what I can do there. But if I get cracked or don't have luck there, I'll be happy to take the fight to the ground. But it's MMA, so we'll just see what happens. 

 


2008 PANCRASE - World Submission Wrestling Championship Tournament
3-3-2008

Broomfield, Colorado, USA


“King of Combat Sports" returns to Broomfield, Colorado on March 15th

Denver/Broomfield, Colorado, March 3, 2008 – It's that time again. On March 15th, the world’s best combat grapplers travel to Colorado to test themselves in the ultimate submission fighting challenge. 

Now in it’s eighth year, the Pancrase USA sanctioned tournament has matured into a world championship event. Last year nearly 400 fighters from ten countries and thousands of spectators took part in our North American Championship series. This year promises to be even bigger and better.

New for 2008 is the Ozaki Cup, a team award named in honor of Pancrase President Masami Ozaki. The tournament’s top scoring team takes home this prestigious world championship trophy.

Also new are special King and Queen of Combat Grappling trophy cups for the men and women's absolute division champions.

Fans and competitors alike can look forward to a day of world-class submission fighting from experts in the world's oldest martial art.
Discover why mixed martial arts and submission fighting have rapidly become the nation's fastest growing and most popular new combat sport.

As always, the Pancrase World Championship is held in conjunction with the 17th Old Timers Wrestling Tourney (collegiate style). Both tournaments run simultaneously and at the same location. Competitors and spectators may participate in both events. 

Competition begins at 9:00 AM, Saturday, March 15th, at the Broomfield High School, 1 Eagle Way, Broomfield, Colorado, 80020. The venue is located within minutes of downtown Denver and the international airport. The metro area offers a full range of accommodations and amenities for out of town visitors. 

* 28 World Championship Divisions: Team, men and women's beginner, intermediate, advanced and absolute.
* Free Pancrase tournament t-shirts for competitors.
* Ozaki Cup World Champion Team Award.
* King & Queen of Combat Grappling Trophies for the world’s best male and female submission fighter.
* Division awards 1st through 4th place.
* Master of Ceremonies - "Brother from Another” Al Pallone.
* Held in Conjunction with the "17th Annual Old Timers Wrestling Tourney
* Low-cost advertiser/sponsor tables and other opportunities are still available. 

For additional information visit the
Pancrase tournament webpage



2008 Pancrase World Submission Wrestling Championships

Event date: Saturday, March 15, 2008, 9:00 AM

Location:
Broomfield High School, 1 Eagle Way, Broomfield, Colorado, 80020

Spectator fees: Adults - $6; Children ages 5 through 17 - $5; children under 5 – free.

Entry fee: $50 

Competitor Weigh-in & Registration: (pre-registration NOT required. Register and pay at the weigh-ins)
Friday, March 14, 2006, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Broomfield, H. S. Wrestling Room
Saturday, March 15, 2006, 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m., Broomfield, H. S. Wrestling Room

Contact: Will H., tel: (303) 635-0530, (303) 589-3394, email:
sportmasters@msn.com

 

 

PROMOTIONS

3-2-2008

Pancrase USA / Stars Training Center

Broomfield, CO

 

Thomas_Siglar_Blue_Belt_March_08_008.jpg (126638 bytes)

 

Martial artist Thomas Sigler received his promotion to Blue Belt (youth level) on Saturday, March 1, 2008.  Congratulations!

 

 

UFC 82 - Live Results

3-1-2008

Denver, CO

 

Live from the Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio.

 

Preliminary Bouts:

1. Jorge Gurgel (154.5) defeated John Halverson (155) by unanimous decision
2. Diego Sanchez (169.5) defeated David Bielkheden (170) by submission from strikes at 4:43 of rd 1
3. Josh Koscheck (169.5) defeated Dustin Hazelett (170) by TKO from strikes at 1:24 of rd 2
4. Luigi Fioravanti (170.5) defeated Luke Cummo (170) by unanimous decision 
5. Andrei Arlovski (241) defeated Jake O'Brien (231.5) by TKO from strikes 4:17 of rd 2

 

Main Card Bouts:
6. Jon Fitch (170) defeated Chris Wilson (169.5) by unanimous decision 
7. Yushin Okami (184.5) defeated Evan Tanner (185) by KO at 3:00 of rd 2
8. Chris Leben (185) defeated Alessio Sakara (185) by TKO from strikes at 3:16 of rd 1
9. Heath Herring (248) defeated Cheick Kongo (233.5) by split decision 

 

Main Event - Middleweight Title Bout:
10. UFC Champion Anderson Silva (185) defeated challenger Dan Henderson (184.5) by rear choke at 4:52 of rd 2

 

 

UFC 82 - Party in Denver, Colorado Tonight

3-1-2008

Denver, CO

 

SPILLWAY GRILL AND RING OF FIRE PRESENT:  SLUGFEST!! Kick Ass Fights!! KickAss Rock and Roll !!

This Saturday night all Denver area MMA fans are invited to the SLUGFEST PARTY featuring both the UFC 82: PRIDE OF A CHAMPION PPV and a live performance by one of Denver's top hard rock acts: SLUGWORTH. 

The event will take place at the SPILLWAY GRILL. 

The party starts at 7:00 pm, and the PPV event will start at 8:00. Immediately following the fights SLUGWORTH will take the stage!! 

For the $10.00 cover charge you will get to watch the complete fight event, enjoy the band's entire set list and to top it off, your first drink is FREE! 

SPILLWAY GRILL
13740 East Quincy Avenue
(Southeast corner of Parker Road and Quincy) 
303 693-0755 

   

 

UFC 82: Pride of a Champion - Official Fight Card
3-1-2008, Denver, CO, PNW

Event date: Saturday, March 1, 2008, at 10 p.m. ET on pay-per-view (PPV)

Venue: Nationwide Arena in Columbus, OH

Pay Per View Fight Card: 
185 lbs: Anderson Silva (185) vs. Dan Henderson (184.5) 
265 lbs: Heath Herring (248) vs. Cheick Kongo (233.5) 
185 lbs: Alessio Sakara (185) vs. Chris Leben (185) 
185 lbs: Yushin Okami (184.5) vs. Evan Tanner (185) 
170 lbs: Chris Wilson (169.5) vs. Jon Fitch (170) 

 

Preliminary Bouts:
265 lbs: Jake O'Brien (231.5) vs. Andrei Arlovski (241) 
170 lbs: Luke Cummo (170) vs. Luigi Fioravanti (170.5) 
170 lbs: Dustin Hazelett (170) vs. Josh Koscheck (169.5) 
170 lbs: David Bielkheden (170) vs. Diego Sanchez (169.5) 
155 lbs: Jorge Gurgel (154.5) vs. John Halverson (155) 

 

 

IFL "New Blood New Battles" - Results
3-1-2008

Denver, CO

 

From the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas, NV 

Results:
1. Ian Loveland defeated Dennis Davis  by guillotine choke at 0:58 of rd 2
2. Rafael Dias (WCFC) defeated Santino DeFranco (TT) by rear choke at 2:03 of rd 1
3. Josh Haynes (TT) defeated Leopoldo Serao (WCFC) by unanimous decision
4. Alexandre Ferreira (WCFC) defeated Lew Polley (TT) by guillotine choke at 0:20 of rd 1
5. Jake Ellenberger (TQ) defeated Pat Healy (LD) by unanimous decision
6. Ryan Schultz (TQ) defeated John Gunderson (LD) by unanimous decision
7. Roy Nelson (LD) defeated Fabiano Scherner (TQ) by TKO from strikes at 3:20 of rd 1
8. Middleweight Championship - Ryan McGivern defeated Matt Horwich by unanimous decision

 

 

NO HOLDS BARRED: Gary Shaw on Vazquez-Marquez and Elite XC-CBS Deal

3-1-2008

Denver, CO

http://nhbnews.podOmatic.com/entry/eg/2008-02-29T17_04_28-08_00

On this special edition of NO HOLDS BARRED, host Eddie Goldman speaks with Gary Shaw, who serves as a boxing promoter with his Gary Shaw Productions and as a mixed martial arts promoter as president of EliteXC.

We spoke Friday afternoon, Feb. 29, just before the weigh-ins for the highly anticipated rubber match between WBC super bantamweight champion Israel Vazquez (42-4, 31 KOs) and former world champion Rafael Marquez (37-4, 33 KOs), who, in classic battles last year, split their first two fights. The third fight takes place Saturday, March 1, at the Home Depot Center in Carson, Calif. Showtime will televise it in the U.S.

In a short but explosive interview, we discussed the significance of the deal announced Thursday, Feb. 28, that CBS will televise four live Elite XC shows a year in prime time; that the second Vazquez-Marquez fight narrowly lost in the voting by the Boxing Writers Association of America for 2007 fight of the year; why boxing could not get a network TV deal like Elite XC did; when and where the first CBS-televised Elite XC show might take place; an evaluation of Elite XC star Kimbo Slice as a fighter; and where Elite XC stands in relation to UFC.

To listen to NO HOLDS BARRED, click the link at the start of this message, scroll down that page, and just press the play button on the player.

You can also download it by scrolling down that page and clicking on the download link (right-click to save it).

Also, NO HOLDS BARRED is available through iTunes at
http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=150801513&s=143441

 

         

BUD LIGHT Enters the Octagon™ As Exclusive Beer Sponsor of UFC

2-28-2008

Denver, CO 

 

Today Anheuser-Busch and UFC® announced that Bud Light, the world’s best-selling beer, will become the new exclusive beer sponsor for the UFC.

Bud Light’s three-year deal with Zuffa, LLC, owner of the UFC brand, makes the American-style light lager with superior drinkability the exclusive beer sponsor of the UFC – the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization.

“UFC has developed a huge following in recent years and is wildly popular with the 21-34 year old fans we want to reach,” said Tony Ponturo, vice president, global media and sports marketing, Anheuser-Busch, Inc. “The number of people attending live events, buying the pay-per-views and talking about UFC around the water cooler continues to grow. It’s just a great place for us to be.”

“Landing Anheuser-Busch and Bud Light is huge for us, our fighters and especially our fans,” said Dana White, UFC president. “We’ve got the number one selling beer in the world and one of the top marketers in all of sports as our sponsor. If our TV ratings, pay-per-view buys and venue sell-outs weren’t enough, this definitely cements UFC as a major player in sports business.”

Beginning with UFC 84: ILL WILL, live from MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on May 24, Bud Light signage will appear on the Octagon center mat and on its vertical bumpers during each of the UFC’s 10 or more annual pay-per-view events and featured prominently during UFC press conferences and weigh-in events. Bud Light will be the presenting sponsor of two UFC pay-per-view events annually and serve as the official beer sponsor of the four or more UFC® Fight Nights™.

Additionally, beginning June 1, Bud Light will appear as the official beer sponsor of World Extreme Cagefighting® (WEC™) events broadcast live on VERSUS network. The WEC brand, also owned by Zuffa, LLC, is the second largest mixed martial arts organization in the world and features championship divisions in lighter weight classes.

Based in St. Louis, Anheuser Busch is the leading American brewer, holding a 48.5 percent share of U.S. beer sales. The company brews the world’s largest-selling beers, Budweiser and Bud Light. Anheuser Busch also owns a 50 percent share in Grupo Modelo, Mexico’s leading brewer, and a 27 percent share in China brewer Tsingtao, whose namesake beer brand is the country’s best-selling premium beer. Anheuser-Busch ranked No. 1 among beverage companies in FORTUNE Magazine’s Most Admired U.S. and Global Companies lists in 2007. Anheuser Busch is one of 
the largest theme park operators in the United States, is a major manufacturer of aluminum cans and one of the world’s largest recyclers of aluminum cans. For more information, visit www.anheuser-busch.com.

The Ultimate Fighting Championship® is the world’s leading professional mixed martial arts organization and offers the premier series of MMA sports events. Owned and operated by Zuffa, LLC, and headquartered in Las Vegas, Nev., UFC® produces over twelve live pay-per-view events annually that are distributed residentially through North American cable and satellite providers including iNDEMAND Networks, DIRECTV, DISH Network, TVN Entertainment, Shaw Pay-Per-View, Bell ExpressVU, and Viewers Choice, and commercially through Joe Hand Promotions. In addition to its North American distribution, UFC programming is distributed in over 100 countries and territories throughout the world. For more information, or current UFC fight news, visit www.ufc.com or uk.ufc.com or www.ufcespanol.com.

Ultimate Fighting Championship®, Ultimate Fighting®, UFC®, The Ultimate Fighter®, Submission®, As Real As It Gets®, Zuffa™, The Octagon™ and the eight-sided competition mat and cage design are registered trademarks, trademarks, trade dress or service marks owned exclusively by Zuffa, LLC, in the United States and other jurisdictions. All other marks referenced herein may be the property of Zuffa, LLC or other respective owners. 

 

 

CBS & PROELITE Join Forces - Mixed Martial Arts to Primetime TV
2-28-2008

Denver, CO

One of the Fastest-Growing Spectator Sports Comes to CBS With Four Live, Two-Hour Events Per Year

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 28 — The CBS Television Network and ProElite, Inc., a Los Angeles-based leading entertainment and media company that produces world class mixed martial arts (MMA) events, today jointly announced a multi-year agreement that will bring one of the fastest growing spectator sports to a major broadcast television network for the first time. 

CBS will broadcast four MMA events per year, produced by ProElite's EliteXC fight division, as two-hour live primetime specials targeted for Saturday nights. 

The agreement augments an existing relationship between CBS Corporation (NYSE: CBS and CBS.A) and ProElite (PELE.PK), which began broadcasting its EliteXC live MMA events on CBS's SHOWTIME premium cable network in 2007. EliteXC events will continue to air on SHOWTIME.

Additionally, CBS Interactive and ProElite's new media division, ProElite.com, will collaborate on generating interactive content for both companies' platforms, including CBSSports.com. The online offerings could include streaming of events, clips syndicated across the CBS Audience Network, and other enhanced content to build an online community around each CBS broadcast and ProElite event.

"Mixed martial arts is one of the fastest growing sports in the country and a wildly popular entertainment vehicle for upscale, young adult audiences," said Kelly Kahl, Senior Executive Vice President, CBS Primetime. "It's original programming for Saturday night; it's live, creating an event-atmosphere; and it’s something that hasn't been seen on network television, until now." 

"This is a pivotal moment for the sport of mixed martial arts now that a major television network plans to broadcast live MMA events during primetime hours," said Douglas DeLuca, Chief Executive Officer of ProElite. "We are delighted to enhance our partnership with CBS to bring American audiences the very best in MMA competition through our EliteXC brand. 

"The network television agreement with CBS is an important milestone for ProElite as we continue to implement our growth strategy and develop existing relationships with our international partners." 

"Our world-class fighters and the high production value of our events continue to drive ProElite as a global MMA organization that is fortified by the bedrock foundation of a partnership with CBS," said Gary Shaw, President of EliteXC. "Broadcasting our events on CBS will instantly engage a new fan base, as well as provide an opportunity for EliteXC to further establish itself as the world's premier MMA organization." 

The intense nature of the contests and the theatrical elements of its live events have made mixed martial arts one of the fastest growing spectator sports in the United States. Over the last several years, the genre has seen tremendous growth in popularity, especially among the coveted 18-34 demographic.

Mixed martial arts is a sport evolved from a number of ancient combat disciplines including judo, jiu-jitsu, karate, wrestling and kickboxing. World-class athletes engage in hand-to-hand combat in a ring—both caged and traditional—and must adapt their fighting style to fit their opponent. The wide variety of styles and techniques make every event an unpredictable spectacle.

About ProElite (www.proeliteinc.com)

ProElite, Inc. delivers the most exciting entertainment experience in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA) with live arena-based entertainment events, cable television programming on Showtime Networks and community-driven interactive broadband entertainment via the Internet. The company has established itself as a global leader by acquiring MMA organizations in Asia and Europe, and partnering with broadcasters such as British Sky Broadcasting and CJ Media in Korea. The company has an exclusive distribution agreement for its program library with IMG Media. ProElite embraces MMA with the highest levels of honor, integrity, discipline and self-esteem, all the while remaining inclusive for fighters, fans and schools [elitexc.com]. ProElite’s live fight division, EliteXC, delivers spectacular live MMA fight events that showcase the world’s top fighters. Complementing ProElite's live events division is the company's social media platform, ProElite.com. Since the beginning of 2007, ProElite.com continues to add thousands of subscribers each month due to the large number of live streaming MMA events, social networking tools, and original and partner-driven content. ProElite.com also recently launched the largest online martial arts school locator as a way for martial arts practitioners to find the best locations to train, and for schools and dojos to help market themselves. ProElite.com – Empowering the Fight Community TM.

 

 

YAMMA PIT FIGHTING - Announces first fight card
2-27-2008

Denver, CO

Los Angeles, February 27, 2008 – Today YAMMA Pit Fighting (YPF), a new mixed martial arts (MMA) organization created by Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) founder Bob Meyrowitz, announced that their first matchup will pit Russia vs. U.S.A, as Oleg “The Russian Bear” Taktarov and Don “The Predator” Frye will go toe-to-toe in the organization’s first live pay-per-view event.

The event will air live from the Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City on April 11, 2008. Tickets for the event will go on sale March 8, and can be purchased through Ticketmaster. 

This first matchup will witness two MMA legends battle in a totally new and unique arena. The veteran fighters will face off in one of the ‘Masters Superfights’, one-on-one matches that feature some of MMA’s most illustrious and legendary fighters. In addition to the Superfights, the April 11th event will showcase the skill and endurance of eight fearsome competitors in a tournament match for the title of YAMMA Heavyweight Champion. Tournament fighters include: Marcelo “Pato” Pereira, Sherman Pendergarst, Rex Richards, Tony Sylvester, Chris Tuscherer and Travis “The Diesel” Wiuff.

“Don Frye needs to do only two things: fly to Russia and stay there for ten years to study Sambo. Then, maybe he’ll be ready,” said Oleg Taktarov about his upcoming face off with Frye. 

Jeff Blatnick will serve as a commentator for both the Heavyweight Tournament and “Masters Superfights.” Blatnick, a retired athlete and cancer survivor, has won ten national wrestling titles and various international awards. He was a member of both the 1980 and 1984 United States Olympic Teams, and is famous for his awe-inspiring underdog win at the 1984 Olympics, after having his spleen and appendix removed due to Hodgkin’s disease. This win made him only the second U. S. Greco-Roman wrestler in history to win a gold medal. Since retiring, Jeff has become a successful television sportscaster and has appeared as an expert analyst on NBC, ABC and ESPN.

Don "The Predator" Frye is an American professional mixed martial arts fighter, actor, and professional wrestler who has fought in UFC, PRIDE and K-1. Frye rose to fame fighting in early Ultimate Fighting Championship events, winning the UFC 8 and Ultimate Ultimate 2 tournaments. He is widely considered one of the first "cross trained" MMA fighters, having a background in multiple disciplines including: extensive collegiate wrestling, a 2nd degree black belt in Judo and a professional boxing record. Frye stands 6ft 1in and weighs 220lbs and has a MMA record of 19-6-1.

Sambo and Judo expert Oleg “The Russian Bear” Taktarov is a PRIDE, UFC and Bodog Fights veteran known for calmness during battle and acrobatic takedowns. Taktarov's MMA record is 13-5-2 and he has never been submitted in a MMA match. He stands 6ft tall and weighs 220lb and recently returned to the MMA ring, winning a decisive victory over challenger John Marsh in November 2007.

YAMMA Pit Fighting will return to the popular origins of MMA by reviving the tournament format, in which fighters will participate in multiple fights on their way to claiming the ultimate YAMMA victory, the title of YAMMA Heavyweight Champion. This format will push fighters to the limits of skill and endurance, as victory in each round is rewarded not with extended rest, but with another fight. Some of MMA’s newest and best emerging fighters will be featured in the Heavyweight Tournament fight card and will include:

Marcelo “Pato” Pereira - a multiple world and Brazil BJJ champion known for this strong chin and very heavy hands with an MMA record of 5-0-0

Sherman Pendergarst - a 6'1 230 pound former Collegiate wrestler and State High School wrestling champion with a background in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Boxing and Kick boxing with an MMA record of 10-8-0

Rex Richards – a former lineman for the Indianapolis Colts and Machado BJJ brown belt. Richards is a veteran of Strike Force and Art of War with a professional mixed martial arts record of 4-1-0

Tony Sylvester – a boxing/wrestling expert who is considered to be one of the top up-and-coming heavyweights in the nation with a MMA record of 10-1-0

Travis “The Diesel” Wiuff - a UFC, Pride and IFL veteran, and current IFO World Champion with a Mixed Martial Arts record of 47-11-0. He is known for his well rounded fighting style with vicious elbows on the ground

The additional three tournament fighters will be announced in the coming weeks.

Tickets are available through Ticketmaster’s extensive network of 81 ticket centers throughout the Delaware Valley including Boscov’s, Marshalls, Tower Records, and select West Coast Video and Gallery of Sound locations or call Ticketmaster’s convenient Charge-by-Phone service at 1-800-736-1420. For Online Information: www.ticketmaster.com 

 

 

UFC 82: “Pride of a Champion” -  Final Fight Card

2-26-2008, Denver, CO, PNW
Event Date: Saturday, March 1, 2008, at 10 p.m. ET on pay-per-view (PPV)
Venue: The Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio


Main Event:
UFC Middleweight Champion Anderson Silva (20-4) vs. Dan Henderson (22-6)

Main fight card (televised):
265 lbs.: Cheick Kongo (11-3-1) vs. Heath Herring (27-13)
185 lbs.: Alessio Sakara (12-6) vs. Chris Leben (17-4)
185 lbs.: Evan Tanner (32-6) vs. Yushin Okami (21-4)
170 lbs.: Jon Fitch (15-2) vs. Chris Wilson (13-3)

Preliminary bouts (may not be broadcast):
265 lbs.: Andrei Arlovski (11-5) vs. Jake O’Brien (10-0)
170 lbs.: Luke Cummo (6-4) vs. Luigi Fioravanti (11-3)
170 lbs.: Josh Koscheck (9-2) vs. Dustin Hazelett (10-3)
170 lbs.: Diego Sanchez (17-2) vs. David Bielkheden (12-5)
155 lbs.: Jorge Gurgel (11-3) vs. John Halverson (16-5)

 

 

IFL "New Blood New Battles" - Lineup
2-25-2008, Denver, CO
Event date: February 29th, 2008 
Venue: 4500 W. Tropicana Ave, Orleans Arena, Las Vegas, NV
Weigh-in: Feb 28th, 2008, Time: 4-6pm. 
Location: Bourbon St Cabaret, Orleans Hotel & Casino 

Main Fight Card:
1. Ryan "The Lion" Schultz vs. John Gunderson 
2. Matt Horwich vs. Ryan McGivern 
3. Fabiano Scherner vs. Roy Nelson 
4. Jake Ellenberger vs. Pat Healy 
5. Rafael Dias vs. Santino DeFranco 
6. Leopoldo Serao vs. Josh Haynes 
7. Alexandre Ferreira vs. Lew Polley 

 

Preliminary bout:
8. Ian Loveland vs. Dennis Davis

 

 

STRIKEFORCE - Results

2-24-2008

Denver, CO

 

From the Tacoma Dome in Tacoma, Washington.

 

Results:
1. Nathan Coy defeated Dave Corshane by KO at 1:46 of rd 1
2. Zach Skinner defeated Scott Shaffer by unanimous decision 
3. Mike Hayes defeated Matt Kovacs by unanimous decision 
4. Lyle Beerbohm defeated Ray Perales by choke at 1:19 of rd 3
5. Mychal Clark defeated Josh Bennett by TKO at 5:00 of of rd 2
6. Jorge Masvidal defeated Ryan Healy by unanimous decision
7. Eddy Ellis defeated Steve Berger by unanimous decision
8. Maurice Smith defeated Rick Roufus by armlock at 1:53 of rd 1
9. Cory Devela defeated Joe Riggs by submission at 1:22 of rd 1
10 Jan Nortje defeated Bob Sapp by TKO at :55 of rd 1

 

 

BATTLEQUEST - Results

2-23-2008

Denver, CO

 

battlequest7.jpg (106629 bytes)

 

Results: 
Pro 145lbs MMA: Tyler Toner defeated  Brett Roller by choke in rd 1
205lbs MMA: Cody Donovan defeated Ted Vonroll by armbar in rd 1

185lbs MMA: Kenneth Seegrist defeated Chris Saucedo by choke in rd 1
145lbs MMA: Brian Wood defeated Tyler Rodgers by choke in rd 3
132lbs K-1 Rules Kickboxing: Sean Doherty defeated Aaron Trujillo by decision
185lbs MMA: John Bryant defeated Sundar Mims by armbar in rd 1
165lbs K-1 Rules Kickboxing: Akil Shareef defeated Ben Deanda by split decision 
165lbs K-1 Kickboxing: Sean Johnson vs.T.J. Labaron was judged a draw

 

 

BATTLEQUEST 7 - Weigh In tonight at DAVE & BUSTERS of Westminster, Colorado

2-21-2008

Denver, CO

 

All area MMA fans, 


You are cordially invited to the Official BATTLEQUEST 7 Weigh In brought to you by DAVE & BUSTERS of Westminster. 
The event is free and open to the public. Be there to witness the fighters as they get their first up close and personal look at their opponents. 
The event starts at 7:00 pm. The fighters will get on the scale to get official weights. They will then stand "nose to nose" and be able to size each other up. Press photos will be taken. Afterwards all the fighters will be fed a healthy dinner provided by Dave & Busters. Fighters will be available for photos and interviews as well. 


Bring your camera, grab a cold Coors Light, and have a good time.

 

WHERE: DAVE & BUSTERS WESTMINSTER
10667 Westminster Blvd, Westminster, CO 80020 
(303) 438-1500 

FIGHT CARD:


145 lbs MMA Tyler Toner, Aurora, CO vs. Brett Roller, Colorado Springs, CO

205 lbs MMA: Cody Donovan, Denver, CO vs. Ted Von Roll, Oakland, CA

185 lbs MMA: Kenneth Seegrist, Denver, CO vs. Chris Saucedo, Scottsbluff, NE

145 lbs MMA: Brian Wood, Arvada, CO vs. Tyler Rodgers, Glenwood Springs, CO

132 lbs K-1 Rules: Sean Doherty, Broomfield, CO vs. Aaron Trujillo, Littleton, CO

145 lbs MMA: Nate Fernandez, Colorado Springs, CO vs. Allan Bujanda, Denver, CO

185 lbs MMA: John Bryant, Wichita, KS vs. Sundar Mims, Glenwood Springs, CO

165 lbs K-1 Rules: Ben Deanda, Aurora, CO vs. Akil Shareef, Denver, CO

165 lbs K-1 Rules: Sean Johnson, Aurora, CO vs. T.J. Labaron, Denver, CO 

 

 

PANCRASE 2008 SHINING TOUR - Lineup

2-21-2008, Denver, CO

Event date: March 26, 2008, doors open at 18:00, pro bouts start at 18:30

Venue: Korakuen Hall, Tokyo, Japan

Event website: http://www.pancrase.co.jp/tour/2008/0326/index.html

 

Fight card:

 

Main event - Challenging for the Next Featherweight Championship bout 3x5 min rounds:
MIKI SHIDA (Featherweight 2nd Ranked/Pancrase P's LAB-Tokyo) vs. MARLON SANDRO (Featherweight 4th Ranked/Nova Uniao) 

 

Semifinal - Middleweight 3x5 min rounds:
IZURU TAKEUCHI (The 7th Middleweight K.O.P./SK Absolute) vs. HIROMITSU KANEHARA (U.K.R.) 

 

Pro Bout#6 - Middleweight 3x5 min rounds:
ALAVUTDIN GADZHIEV (Middleweight 4th Ranked/SK Absolute-Russia) vs. HIKARU SATO (Pancrase ism)  

 

Pro Bout#5 - Lightweight 3x5 min rounds:
TAKAFUMI ITO (Lightweight 4th Ranked/Pancrase ism) vs. HACRAN DIAS(Pancrase Debut/Nova Uniao) 

 

Pro Bout#4 - Lightweight 3x5 min rounds:
KENJI ARAI (Lightweight 7th Ranked/Pancrase ism) vs. SHINSUKE SHOJI(KRAZY BEE) 

 

Pro Bout#3 - Bantamweight 2x5 min rounds:
MICHIHISA ASANO (Bantamweight 2nd Ranked/KRAZY BEE) vs. YUKITO (U-FILE CAMP.com) 

 

Pro Bout#2 - Middleweight 2x5 min rounds: 
ICHIRO KANAI (Pancrase ism) vs. TAKENORI SATO (Pancrase Debut/Laughter7) 

 

Pro Bout#1 - Welterweight 2x5 min rounds: 
ASAKI HONDA (Pancrase P's LAB-Yokohama) vs. TOMOYOSHI IWAMIYA (Takada Dojo)

 

 

Win Las Vegas Vacation at BATTLEQUEST 7
2-19-2008

Denver, CO

FREE LAS VEGAS GET AWAY!!


Fight Fans.

Would you like to party with Chuck?

How about cocktails with Wanderlei?

Ok, OK.. so we can't promise you that will happen, but if you are in the Fight Capitol of the world where you could cross paths with an MMA Celebrity at any time, your odds totally improve!!

Located on Duke Ellington Way and boarded by the Tropicana and the new Hooters Casino Hotel, the Desert Rose Resort is the ideal place to relax between visits to the Las Vegas Strip, just steps from the property. Desert Rose Resort has easy access to all the shows, shops, restaurants, casinos, clubs and excitement that Las Vegas has to offer.

Desert Rose Resort's sparkling pool is one of its most compelling features. Located in the very center of the resort in Las Vegas and surrounded by dense tropical plants, Desert Rose Resort's pool is an oasis. A true relaxing and refreshing hideaway - dramatically different from the crush of people at some Vegas hotels.

Fully experience Las Vegas entertainment including casinos, world renowned restaurants and shopping, amusement rides and attractions. Enjoy Las Vegas shows - Celine Dion to Blue Man Group, the amazing acrobatics of Cirque du Soleil to the equally amazing range of free lounge shows, or the impressive schedule of concerts at MGM Grand Garden, Mandalay Bay and the Thomas & Mack Center. Tour Hoover Dam. Take a scenic flight over the Grand Canyon or around the Stratosphere. Hit a few on championship golf courses. Enjoy Las Vegas nightlife. Lounge around the resort pool and conduct the business you were dispatched to do.

It is super easy to enter.

Just go to the
COLORADO FIGHT EVENTS website.

Once there you can fill out the entry form. The winner will be drawn at random this on Friday, February 22nd at the BATTLEQUEST 7: RESURRECTION Mixed Martial Art event. The event starts at 7:30 pm at the Softball Country Sports Pavilion located at 2101 West 64th Avenue (just west of 64th & Pecos). You must be present to win the prize package.

Immediately before the main event the winner will be announced to the audience and the package will be given away on the spot!

So don't miss out, head over to
www.coloradofightevents.com, sign up for the drawing and we will see you this Friday night.

GOOD LUCK!

\

 

NO HOLDS BARRED: Introducing The Boxing Standard

2-19-2008

Denver, CO

http://nhbnews.podOmatic.com/entry/eg/2008-02-18T22_32_56-08_00

On this edition of NO HOLDS BARRED, host Eddie Goldman is joined by our correspondent Charles Farrell to introduce the new online journal of boxing, The Boxing Standard (http://boxingstandard.com/). Eddie and Charles are also the editors of The Boxing Standard.

In a lengthy discussion, we explain why we aim to stir up the highly mediocre world of boxing journalism. Among the many topics raised is how the boxing media is missing the real story of the most important heavyweight fight in years, the title unification bout between IBF champ Wladimir Klitschko and WBO champ Sultan Ibragimov this Saturday, Feb. 23, at Madison Square Garden in New York.

To listen to NO HOLDS BARRED, click the link at the start of this message, scroll down that page, and just press the play button on the player.

You can also download it by scrolling down that page and clicking on the download link (right-click to save it).

Also, NO HOLDS BARRED is available through iTunes at
http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=150801513&s=143441.

 

 

EliteXC On Showtime Results - Kimbo Slice knocks out Tank Abbott in 43 seconds

2-17-2008, Denver, CO

From the Bank United Center at The University of Miami

MIAMI (Feb. 17, 2008) – Surfs up, beach boy, and tanks for the memories. 

Before a sellout crowd of 6,187 that produced the single largest gate in the history of the BankUnited Center at the University of Miami, Kimbo Slice registered a spectacular 43-second, first-round knockout over David “Tank” Abbott Saturday on SHOWTIME.

The exciting event, which was presented by Los Angeles-based ProElite, Inc.’s EliteXC, aired on SHOWTIME at 10 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast). It will be replayed a few times in the next several days, including Wednesday on SHOWTIME at 11 p.m. ET/PT (full replay schedule below).

As far as homecomings go, it doesn’t get better than this, as the incredibly popular Pride of Perrine, Fla, gave the raucous but well-behaved fans what they came to see: a devastating knockout win.

A YouTube legend and legitimate Mixed Martial Arts superstar, Kimbo’s performance put an exclamation point on what was an excellent night of MMA action.

“We promised the fans a good, classy show and we delivered a great one,’’ said “EliteXC Live Events President and University of Miami alum, Gary Shaw. “EliteXC showed tonight, once again, what MMA is all about. There were great fights with dramatic finishes, a little bit of everything for everybody.

“As a promoter, you want the fans to leave with a good taste, and I truly believe that each and every person in attendance here tonight left the venue happy and completely satisfied. 

“I couldn’t be prouder of the athletes, who acted like world champions before, during and afterward, or the fans, who turned out in record numbers. We look forward to returning to Miami again.

“This was just a tremendously exciting night from start to finish. Honestly, I don’t think any organization puts on better, more competitive fights that we do.’’

Kimbo (2-0), who may indeed be more popular than sliced bread, wowed the crowd en route to demolishing Abbott, an MMA icon who entered the cage to win. But Tank spent more time on the ground than on his feet, going down three times from legitimate punches and a couple other times from slips.

“I wanted him to get up, I wanted to bang,’’ Kimbo (http://kimboslice.proelite.com) said. “I had to push him off because we were too close. Then I just knocked him down. It was great fighting in front of the hometown fans. I’d be lying if I told you they didn’t jack me up. Miami, you are my home.

“I have a lot of respect for Tank. This was one of my dream fights, along with Mike Tyson. But I am ready to fight anybody and ready to fight again really soon.

“I want to thank SHOWTIME and EliteXC for making this night possible for me and my family.” 

Abbott (9-14), of Huntington Beach, Calif., gave it his all, as expected. “I tried to take it to him at the start and take him to the ground, but then I just said, the heck with that and started to fight,’’ Tank (http://tankabbott.proelite.com) said. “But I ran into one and that was it. I was just getting started.

“It is still too early to know how good or great Kimbo will be. But what I do know is that I absolutely want to keep fighting. Maybe I will go after Ken Shamrock.’’

 

Results: 
1. Kimbo Slice defeated Tank Abbott by KO at :43 of rd 1
2. Antonio Silva defeated Ricco Rodriguez by split decision
3. Scott Smith defeated Kyle Noke by KO at :07 of rd 2
4. Yves Edwards defeated Edson Berto by TKO at 4:56 of rd 1
5. Brett Rogers defeated James Thompson by KO at 2:24 of rd 1
6. Rafael Feijao defeated John Doyle by TKO at 2:1 of rd 1
7. Yosmany Cabezas defeated Jon Kirk by rear choke at :58 of rd 2
8. Dave Herman defeated Mario Rinaldi by TKO at :33 of rd 3
9. Eric Bradley defeated Mikey Gomez by unanimous decision
10. Mike Bernhard defeated Lorenzo Borgameo by choke at 4:11 of rd 2
11. Moyses Gabin defeated Jirka Hlavaty by TKO at 2:32 of rd 1

  

 

VERSUS - ENCORE PRESENTATION OF WEC 

2-16-2008, Denver, CO

Event date: SATURDAY, FEB. 16 AT 11 P.M. ET/8 P.M.PT

LAS VEGAS (February 16, 2008) – After a Championship Tripleheader that saw a local hero defending his crown for the first time in his hometown of Albuquerque, and two other titles changing hands, the World Extreme Cagefighting® (WEC™) card on February 13 was one of the most talked about mixed martial arts cards in recent months. In response to unprecedented demand, World Extreme Cagefighting® (WEC™) is proud to announce that this stellar event will re-air on VERSUS Saturday, February 16, at 11 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. PT. 

In addition to three title bouts featuring the elite of mixed martial arts, including Carlos Condit, Jamie Varner, Miguel Torres, Carlo Prater, Rob McCullough, and Chase Beebe, WEC: Condit vs. Prater also includes the three-round slugfest between Manny Tapia and Antonio Banuelos and the return of featherweight standout Leonard ‘Bad Boy’ Garcia in a bout against Japan’s Hiroyuki Takaya. 

WEC: Condit vs. Prater will be televised on VERSUS in HD and transmitted in SAP where available. For more information and how to find VERSUS in your local viewing area, visit
http://www.versus.com/findversus

 

 

HDNet Fights to Present Upcoming Event Featuring Kim Couture
2-16-2008

Denver, CO


“HDNet Fights Presents: The Debut of Kim Couture” to air exclusively on HDNet
Friday, February 29

DALLAS (February 11, 2007) – Andrew Simon, CEO of HDNet Fights, announced today that HDNet will feature exclusive coverage of Kim Couture’s debut fight. Kim is the wife of MMA legend Randy “The Natural” Couture. Her debut will occur in a Boxing/Muay Thai Smoker, a mixed martial arts event, to be held at the Xtreme Couture Gym in Las Vegas, NV.

“HDNet Fights: The Debut of Kim Couture” will air on HDNet on Friday, February 29 immediately following the network’s LIVE IFL event.

The event will feature up to 8 fights - each fight will consist of three two-minute rounds. 

"It is great to be able to put business affairs aside the last month and focus exclusively on getting ready for this fight,” said Kim Couture. “The whole Xtreme Couture gym is looking forward to the opportunity to showcase new and up-and-coming athletes."

“We’re looking forward to carrying this event exclusively,” said Andrew Simon, CEO of HDNet Fights. "This event will give fans insight into where it all starts for fighters - earlier in the evening we will broadcast the live IFL event taking place in front of 6,000 fans and then we’ll show the contrast by going to the Smoker at Xtreme Couture in front of 300 fans. And, for the many fighters making their debut at the Smoker (including Kim Couture) this is their chance to shine on national TV!"

Kim Couture will also appear as a guest on this Friday’s installment of HDNet’s “Inside MMA,” hosted by Bas Rutten and Kenny Rice. She will be joined on the program by Randy Couture and MMA fighter, Gina Carano. “Inside MMA” airs Friday, February 15 at 9:30 p.m. ET exclusively on HDNet.

 

 

SMACKGIRL - WORLD ReMix TOURNAMENT 2008 Opening Round Results
2-15-2008
Denver, CO PNW
http://sportsnavi.yahoo.co.jp/fight/other/live/2008/2008021401/index.html


From the Korakuen Hall in Tokyo, Japan> 

Results:
1. Megumi Fujii (Japan / AACC) defeated Cindy Hales (U.S.A. / Gracie Barra Seattle) by armbar at :27 of rd 2
2. Hitomi Akano (Japan / AACC) defeated Megumi Yabushita (Japan / Freelance) by foot lock at 4:16 of rd 2
3. Lisa Ward (U.S.A. / United Fight Team) defeated Edge (Japan / Angura) by ankle lock at 4:41 of rd 1
4. Su Hi Ham (Korea / CMA Korea) defeated Saori Ishioka (Japan / Karate Zendo-kai) by decision
5. Michelle Tavarez (Brazil / Nova Uniao) defeated Kyoko Takabayashi (Japan / ALIVE) by armbar at :26 of rd 2
6. Atsuko Enomoto (Japan / Freelance) defeated Tama☆chan (Japan / Age♂Age☆) by decision
7. Madoka Okada (Japan / Angura) defeated Sakura Nakamura (Japan / Karate Zendo-kai) by rear choke at 4:43 of rd 1
8. Megu (Japan / Kareate Zendo-kai) defeated HARUMI (Japan / Age♂Age☆) by armbar at 1:19 of rd 1

 

 

M-1 to Launch M-1 Team Challenge

2-15-2008

Denver, CO


M-1 Global is launching a new project - M-1 Challenge that will show the best teams all over the world battle it out against each each other. The events will take place in different countries. Each team will consist of 5 MMA-fighters competing in the following weight categories: 70, 76, 84, 93, +93

Based on the information from the Dutch MMA sites the teams (and their respective trainers) from the following countries will be represented:
Russia - Fedor Emelianenko
Finland - Petteri Maunu
Spain - Alexandro Iglesias
Germany - Human Niklasmak
Poland - Maciej Kawulski
Skandinavia - Marco Leistens
France - Bertrand Amoussou
Holland will be represented by 2 teams under Remco Pardoel and Bob Schrijber.

March 2: The inaugural M-1 Challenge show is scheduled to take place in Holland (Topsportcentrum in Almere) where 4 teams will be placed in brackets with one fighter in each weight class competing against an athlete from another country.

 

 

"DREAM" Press Conference

2-14-2008

Denver, CO
Written by Monty DiPietro. 


TOKYO -- It's a dream come true for Japanese mixed martial arts fans -- one the world's premier mixed martial arts fighters, Mirko CroCop, will be returning to Japan to fight in a newly-created, star-studded production. "DREAM," organized by K-1's governing body FEG, which will replace the organization's HERO's production, it was revealed today in a full-house press conference at the Hotel Metropolitan Edmont in downtown Tokyo. Six DREAM events are already scheduled for 2008, with CroCop possibly participating as early as March 15.

"I'm happy to be back in Japan," said the Croatian fightsport star, interspersing his speech with Japanese-language remarks to the delight of the 500 fans in attendance, most of whom raced to the press conference on just hours' notice. "I didn't like the cage very much, and now I'm looking forward to fighting here again. I feel that Japan is like my second home, this is where I want to fight!"

DREAM comprises five weight classes: Lightweight (under 70kg/154lbs), Welterweight (to 76kg/168lbs), Middleweight (to 84kg/185lbs), Light Heavyweight (to 93kg/205lbs), and Heavyweight (over 93kg/205lbs). In 2008, bouts will be held in all weight classes, and a special Grand Prix three-stage elimination tournament series will be conducted in the Lightweight and Middleweight classes.

Also in attendance at today's press conference were some 150 media representatives from Japan and overseas, and 22 other contracted DREAM fighters, including Japanese stars Kid Yamamoto and Sakuraba. Meanwhile, Royce Gracie and JZ Calvan participated via video hookup.

FEG's Sadaharu Tanikawa characterized DREAM as an expansion of the recent successful union of the "K-1 Dynamite!!" and "Yarennoka" New Year's Eve fightsport extravaganzas, and introduced Keiichi Sasahara, who will be The DREAM Event Producer.

It was announced that the inaugural, "DREAM.1" event will be held Saturday, March 15 at the Saitama Super Arena, just north of Tokyo. At this time, it is confirmed that JZ Calvan will meet Shinya Aoki in Saitama, as Stage One of the Lightweight Grand Prix series sees 16 combatants square off in a one-match elimination format. "DREAM.1" will be broadcast live across Japan on the TBS network and 28 affiliates.

For up-to-date fighters and scheduling information, as well as official results and comprehensive coverage on all DREAM events, visit the K-1 Official Website (www.k-1.co.jp/k-1gp). 

 

 

WEC - Results

2-14-2008, Denver, CO

 

From the Santa Ana Star Center in Albuquerque, New Mexico

 

1. Carlos Condit defeated Carlo Prater by guillotine choke at 3:48 of rd 1
2. Jamie Varner defeated Rob McCullough by KO at 2:54 of rd 3
3. Miguel Torres defeated Chase Beebe by guillotine choke at 3:59 of rd 1
4. Manny Tapia defeaed Antonio Banuelos by split decision.
5. Leonard Garcia defeated Hiroyuki Takaya by KO at 1:31 of rd 1
6. Josh Grispi defeated Mark Hominick by rear choke at 2:55 of rd 1
7. Coty Wheeler defeated Del Hawkins by armbar at 1:57 of rd 2
8. Damacio Page defeated Scott Jorgensen by unanimous decision.
9. Yoshiro Maeda defeated Charlie Valencia by TKO at 2:29 of rd 1
10. Micah Miller defeated Chance Farrar by KO at 1:39 of rd 1

 

 

WEC Weigh-In Results, Fights Tonight
2-13-2008, Denver, CO

Event date:  Tonight

 


Below are the official weigh-in results for Wednesday’s WEC champion tripleheader, which will be telecast live on VERSUS from the Santa Ana Star Center in Albuquerque, New Mexico, beginning at 9pm ET.

WEC Welterweight Championship: Carlo Prater (170) vs Carlos Condit (167.5)

WEC Lightweight Championship: Jamie Varner (155) vs Rob McCullough (155)

WEC Bantamweight Championship: Miguel Torres (133.5) vs Chase Beebe (135)

Manny Tapia (135) vs Antonio Banuelos (136)

Hiroyuki Takaya (143) vs Leonard Garcia (145)
Josh Grispi (143) vs Mark Hominick (146)
Del Hawkins (135) vs Ox Wheeler (134.5)
Yoshiro Maeda (136) vs Charlie Valencia (136)
Micah Miller (146*) vs Chance Farrar (146)
Scott Jorgensen (136) vs Damacio Page (135)

* Miller made weight on his second attempt

 

 

NO HOLDS BARRED: What They Dare Not Tell You

2-13-2008

Denver, CO

 

http://nhbnews.podOmatic.com/entry/eg/2008-02-12T05_27_29-08_00

 

On this edition of NO HOLDS BARRED, host Eddie Goldman offers a timely and essential commentary on a number of major controversies in the combat sports.

 

The topics include a review of last Saturday's upset of Paul Williams by Carlos Quintana, the need for a Mayweather-Cotto fight, and this coming Saturday's rematch between Kelly Pavlik and Jermain Taylor; the disastrous debut of Brock Lesnar in UFC, and how that company more and more positions itself similarly to the staged pro "wrestling"; the necessity of understanding real wrestling for understanding mixed martial arts; the purchase by the UFC owners of the assets of Pride even though that organization was well-known as being a front for the Yakuza, the Japanese mob, and the subsequent lawsuit by the main figures in Zuffa, UFC's parent company, against the former owners of Pride; the possibility that the growing number of controversies, lawsuits, and outrages committed by the UFC management could jeopardize their getting sanctioned in New York; why other mixed martial arts promoters should disassociate themselves from the UFC management and the direction they have taken; how most of what claims to be the mixed martial arts media miserably fails to cover these issues; and more.

To listen to NO HOLDS BARRED, click the link at the start of this message, scroll down that page, and just press the play button on the player.

 

You can also download it by scrolling down that page and clicking on the download link (right-click to save it).

 

Also, NO HOLDS BARRED is available through iTunes at http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=150801513&s=143441

 

The show is in MP3 format, so may take some time to download.

 

 

EliteXC’s “Street Certified” - Kimbo gets showdown with Tank Abbott
2-10-2008

Denver, CO, PNW

LOS ANGELES (Feb. 10, 2008) – Are you ready for some February Fireworks? The Street Fight of the Year will take place inside a cage. 

In what will be a thrilling heavyweight brawl and South Florida homecoming, the incredibly popular Kimbo Slice (1-0) of Miami will face hard-hitting David “Tank’’ Abbott (9-13) in the main event of “Street Certified” on Saturday, Feb. 16, at the BankUnited Center at the University of Miami.

Tickets for a spectacular 10-bout event, presented by Los Angeles-based ProElite, Inc.’s EliteXC, start at $35 and are available at all Ticketmaster locations, online at www.ticketmaster.com and at the BankUnited Box Office at the University of Miami. Doors open at 7 p.m. The first live fight is at 7:30.

SHOWTIME will televise five fights including the Kimbo-Tank showdown live at 10 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast), while five non-televised undercard matches will be streamed live on the leading MMA internet site, ProElite.com

“There are a lot of fans who’ve waited a long time for two legendary, slugging fighters who built their reputations as street brawlers before turning to mixed martial arts to get it on, and EliteXC is proud to be the ones who finally were able to make it happen,” EliteXC Live Events President Gary Shaw said. 

“I’d hate for longtime, hardcore MMA fans not to get to see the Kimbo-Tank fight come off. It is going to be as thrilling a fight as one can be for as long as it lasts. It may not be fun for one of the fighters, but, from a fans’ point of view, Kimbo versus Tank was a long time coming and sure will be fun to watch. 

“From top to bottom, this card is stacked. All the fights are competitive, non-stop action fights with no clear-cut winners. It is what EliteXC is all about. We expect to sell out the BankUnited Center and look forward to putting on a great show for those in attendance and those tuning in on SHOWTIME.” 

In addition to Kimbo-Tank, the SHOWTIME telecast will include: Antonio “Big Foot” Silva (9-1), a highly touted Brazilian who lives in Coconut Creek, Fla., and is considered one of the world’s top heavyweights, versus tough contender Ricco Rodriguez (27-7), of Staten Island, N.Y., England's James “The Colossus” Thompson (16-7) battles unbeaten Brett Rogers (7-0) of St. Paul, Minn., in a heavyweight match, Australian Kyle “The Ozzie” Noke (14-3-1), the bodyguard of the late Steve “Crocodile Hunter’’ Irwin, meets Scott “Hands Of Stone’’ Smith (14-4), of Sacramento, Calif., in a compelling contest at 185 pounds; and Edson “Little Tiger” Berto (14-4-1), of Tampa, Fla., faces Yves Edwards (32-13-1) of Conroe, Tex., in a scrap at 160 pounds.

A non-televised undercard, which will be streamed live at ProElite.com, will include: Rafael Feijao (4-1), of Brazil, vs. John Doyle (6-2), of Allentown, Pa., at 205 pounds; Mike Bernhard (3-0), of Miami, vs. Lorenzo Borgameo (2-0), of Miami, at 170; Eric Bradley (2-1), of Las Vegas, Nev., vs. Mikey Gomez (6-3), of Orlando, Fla., at 170; Mario Rinaldi (6-2), of Miami, vs. Dave Herman (9-0) of Indiana at 265; and Jon Kirk (10-2), of Houston, vs. Yosmany Cabezas (4-0), of Tampa, Fla., at 185 pounds.

 

 

PHIL BARONI - Signs multi-year contract with EliteXC
2-10-2008

Denver, CO

LOS ANGELES (Feb. 9, 2008) – One of the toughest-talking, hardest-fighting, most colorful competitors in Mixed Martial Arts, Phil “The New York Bad Ass’’ Baroni, has signed a multi-year contract with Los Angeles-based ProElite, Inc.’s Live Fight Division, EliteXC. 

“You know any Jersey boy like me likes a ‘New York Bad Ass’ and Phil’s definitely as bad as they come,’’ said EliteXC Live Events President, Gary Shaw, who made the announcement Saturday. “Phil is a promoter’s dream. He’s a character but also as courageous a fighter as I’ve been around.

“But what I truly love about him is he always comes not only to fight but to win and put on a show. He’s a crowd-pleaser extraordinaire. This is a great addition to the EliteXC family and we are thrilled to sign him. Fans can expect to see Phil back in the cage and fighting his heart out very soon.’’

Baroni’s next fight is March 15 on the EliteXC Hawaii-based Icon Sport promotion. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

“This is a great deal and opportunity. I appreciate EliteXC sticking with me and believing in me enough to sign me,’’ said Baroni (http://philbaroni.proelite.com), whose last fight came against Frank Shamrock (http://frankshamrock.proelite.com) on June 22, 2007.

A native of Long Island, N.Y., Baroni didn’t win an incredibly exciting slugfest that lived up to its hype and anticipation, but he showed as much grit and determination as anyone could expect.

“I’m looking forward to returning to the cage and kicking (butt),’’ said Baroni, whose EliteXC contract will allow him to continue to perform for Strikeforce. “Everybody knows I got hurt early and couldn’t do everything I wanted to do against Shamrock. But I’m 100 percent now, ready for anybody. I pity the guy I fight next, or the one after that. Trust me, everybody is going to pay from here on out.’’

For more information on EliteXC and other MMA-related stories, including bios, video-on-demand, photos, stats, Fantasy Fight Game TM and more, please visit ProElite.com and EliteXC.com.