THE CLINCH REPORT

By: Jonathan M. King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John J Walsh The Clinch Report

Photos By: Bob Fisher Pugilpix.com

Harrah’s Resort Southern California served as the host as Fighters Source finalized the champions in their National mixed martial arts tournament. Each participant earned their way to this point by winning previous competitions across the country. With the champions earning a trip to Brazil to represent the United States in a competition against their host nation.

With so much at stake, the commitment of the fighters stood out first and foremost. With many fighters riding undefeated streaks one might think that protecting that zero was of primary importance. That sentiment quickly got thrown out the window as fighter after fighter came into the cage chomping at the bit; ready for a donnybrook.

The resulting carnage left an indelible mark, perhaps the world of MMA may have found their minor league.

Many fighters stood out on the entertaining card. But these two made the most impressive statements.

1: Amanda Jones: Jones systematically dissected her opponent and did so with clinical precision. Coming in the smaller of the two fighters, Jones needed a few moments to figure out Elizabeth van der Horst’s reach, but once she did the fight was never in question. Jones stepped on the gas about half way through the first round, but did so without getting sloppy. Knowing her opponents grappling pedigree, Jones alternated between securing position and posturing for strikes, when the fight was grounded. On her feet she bounced in and out of her opponents range and changed levels effectively well.  The bell tolled for van der Horst about 20 seconds before the end of the second round. Jones, utilized her position to quickly toss her transitioning opponent with one arm to the mat. If that didn’t punctuate the round, the vicious shot at the end of the frame certainly did. van der Horst could not continue and quit on her stool before the start of the 3rd round. With the win Jones not only secures another amateur title, but earns her spot to compete in Brazil as a representative of the United States.

2:Ahmed White: Grappling is truly an art form. Ahmed White was able to display his prowess with a slick triangle finish over a very tough Nick Lancaster, early into their middleweight bout. Once the bout made its way to the mat, White quickly elevated his legs and set up the finish with an effortless stroke.  Lancaster did his best to survive, and seemed to be fighting the choke effectively, however once White cleared his opponents arm he was able to cinch up the technique forcing the stoppage. White could possibly be the best of all the athletes on the ground, and could turn some heads in Brazil beating them at their own game!

Joining them in Brazil to round out the talented American team are Edwin Rivera, Patrick Mix, Justin Gonzalez, Justin Vazquez, Courtney King,  and Alexander Lopez.

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