King of The Cage set to put on another talent packed card with three title fights. Also numerous contender spots are on the line. Once again King of The Cage President Terry Trebilcock is responsible for producing an exciting card of fights, just in time to satisfy your MMA Christmas/Chanukah wish list!
December 20th 2012
San Manuel Casino
Highland. CA
FIGHT CARD:
Josh Ramage (1-4 MMA) vs Robert Gleckman (Debut) Kenny Tenorio (0-10 MMA) vs Frank Park (2-4 MMA) Roberto Vargas (12-2 MMA) vs Musa Toliver (9-7 MMA) Johnny Cisneros (7-0 MMA) vs Joshua Aveles (9-8 MMA) Justin Robbins (13-13 MMA) vs Marvin Garcia (9-2 MMA) Featherweight Title Bout Sam Liera (7-3 MMA) vs David Gomez (14-4 MMA)* Welterweight Ttitle Bout Trevor Prangley (26-9 MMA) vs Tony Lopez (32-9 MMA)* Light Heavyweight Title Bout
Benson Henderson vs. Nate Diaz – for lightweight title
Analysis: Benson Henderson utilized a complete array of weaponry on the way to a clear unanimous decision. Living up to his moniker ‘Smooth” immediately attacked the legs of Nate Diaz, at times even landing lead left hand jabs to the legs. Diaz never was able to gain any clear offense, with the exception of a few submission attempts that were never really close. Henderson landed over 130 significant strikes to only 20 for Diaz.
Winner: Benson Henderson via Unanimous Decision (50-43, 50-45, 50-45)
Alexander Gustafsson vs. Mauricio “Shogun” Rua
Analysis: Alexander Gustafsson came into the fight with a possible title shot looming, but with the immediate task of standing toe to toe with Mixed Martial Arts legend Maurico ‘Shogun’ Rua. ‘Shogun’ has made a living landing his dynamite packed right hand. And tonight was no different, it landed often. Only this time the man on the receiving end continued to walk through them. Utilizing his clear reach and size advantage ‘The Mauler’ systematically took apart a mix martial arts legend with an arsenal of strikes rivaled only by Jon Jones. Landing at will with several powerful range-effective strikes, Gustafsson absorbed everything Rua could throw at him, and seems to be on his way to a title shot!
Analysis: Rory MacDonald took steps to solidify his place in the welterweight division, in doing so he also vanquished a legend at least in the 170 lbs division. B.J. Penn promised a new improved aggressive B.J. Penn, and for about 1 minute it seemed he was making good on his promise. But then a liver-rattling kick, and a few elbows from MacDonald clearly erased that aggressiveness. MacDonald shadowed the smaller Penn cutting off half of the cage. Landing at will, MacDonald nearly finished Penn with a barrage of strikes that had Penn failing a field sobriety test. Penn was able to get his feet back but was unable to finish the fight.
Analysis: Matt’The Immortal’ Brown started the main card off exactly where the preliminary card ended. With a devastating knockout. Brown was able to utilize his superior wrestling to keep former contender Mike Swick off balance for the entire first-round. The veteran Swick was able to escape a very tight submission attempt only to eat a few shots at the bell. As the second round began, Swick seemed more comfortable controlling the distance with his boxing. Ducking under a pawing right hand, Brown delivered a wild I.Q changing left hand that immediately put the lights out. Two more punches as Swick fell were the exclamation point as the referee stepped in.
Benson Henderson vs. Nate Diaz – for lightweight title
Analysis: Benson Henderson utilized a complete array of weaponry on the way to a clear unanimous decision. Living up to his moniker ‘Smooth” immediately attacked the legs of Nate Diaz, at times even landing lead left hand jabs to the legs. Diaz never was able to gain any clear offense, with the exception of a few submission attempts that were never really close. Henderson landed over 130 significant strikes to only 20 for Diaz.
Winner: Benson Henderson via Unanimous Decision (50-43, 50-45, 50-45)
Alexander Gustafsson vs. Mauricio “Shogun” Rua
Analysis: Alexander Gustafsson came into the fight with a possible title shot looming, but with the immediate task of standing toe to toe with Mixed Martial Arts legend Maurico ‘Shogun’ Rua. ‘Shogun’ has made a living landing his dynamite packed right hand. And tonight was no different, it landed often. Only this time the man on the receiving end continued to walk through them. Utilizing his clear reach and size advantage ‘The Mauler’ systematically took apart a mix martial arts legend with an arsenal of strikes rivaled only by Jon Jones. Landing at will with several powerful range-effective strikes, Gustafsson absorbed everything Rua could throw at him, and seems to be on his way to a title shot!
Analysis: Rory MacDonald took steps to solidify his place in the welterweight division, in doing so he also vanquished a legend at least in the 170 lbs division. B.J. Penn promised a new improved aggressive B.J. Penn, and for about 1 minute it seemed he was making good on his promise. But then a liver-rattling kick, and a few elbows from MacDonald clearly erased that aggressiveness. MacDonald shadowed the smaller Penn cutting off half of the cage. Landing at will, MacDonald nearly finished Penn with a barrage of strikes that had Penn failing a field sobriety test. Penn was able to get his feet back but was unable to finish the fight.
Analysis: Matt’The Immortal’ Brown started the main card off exactly where the preliminary card ended. With a devastating knockout. Brown was able to utilize his superior wrestling to keep former contender Mike Swick off balance for the entire first-round. The veteran Swick was able to escape a very tight submission attempt only to eat a few shots at the bell. As the second round began, Swick seemed more comfortable controlling the distance with his boxing. Ducking under a pawing right hand, Brown delivered a wild I.Q changing left hand that immediately put the lights out. Two more punches as Swick fell were the exclamation point as the referee stepped in.
Pablo Garza was able to withstand some vicious Mark Hominick flurries early, and was able to establish his jab frustrating Hominick into lunging assaults. Off balance Garza was able to take Hominick to the ground in the second and third rounds. Once in position continuously landed the more significant strikes, although Hominick did provide great resistance.
Winner: PABLO GARZA (29-27, 30-26, 29-28)
MARK BOCEK VS. RAFAEL dOS ANJOS
Originally set to be on the preliminary card, this fight was moved up to replace the loss of the Nick Ring v Costantinos Philippou, bout was scrapped after Ring fell ill and was unable to pass pre-fight medical exams. Bocek stated that he would use his superior take-downs to control Dos Anjos, however the exact opposite is what occurred. Dos Anjos systematically broke down Mark Bocek with excellent wrestling, and ground and pound. Dos Anjos never lost control of the fight cruising to a unanimous decision.
Winner: Rafael dos Anjos via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
TOM LAWLOR VS. FRANCIS CARMONT
Francis Carmont was able to withstand a relentless grappling attack of Tom Lawlor, by utilizing effective range-establishing strikes, and excellent wrestling defense. Lawlor was able to control Carmont for most of the fight, consistently pressuring the big middleweight up against the fence. Carmont was able to survive two guillotine attempts that appeared to be locked in tight towards the end of the first and second rounds. Very close fight. When the decision was read for the hometown favorite, the crowd began to boo, obviously thinking that Lawlor had won the fight.
Winner: Francis Carmont via Split Decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
JOHNY HENDRIKS VS. MARTIN KAMPMANN (#1 Contender spot on the line)
After a few seconds of pawing and feeling each other out, Hendriks led with a right hook that was followed immediately by his notorious left hand. Kampman was out instantly, falling backwards Hendriks followed with a vicious shot on the ground that was hardly necessary. The entire bout lasted only .46 seconds, as Johny Hendriks cemented his position as the #1 contender in the Welterweight division.
Winner: John Hendriks via Knockout (0:46) Rd 1
GEORGES ST. PIERRE VS. CARLOS CONDIT (Welterweight Title Unification Bout)
In one of the most memorable matches in UFC history, Georges St. Pierre was able to utilize his superior wrestling skills to ground the versatile attack of Carlos Condit. Even though Condit was on his back for most of the fight, he was able to give St. Pierre all he could handle. Condit used effective striking from the bottom to soften up the champion. In the third frame Condit ducked under a hook, angled out and landed a kick to the head of the champion that sent him to the canvas. Valiantly Condit tried to finish the fight with tactical ground and pound striking, however St.Pierre was able to recover, reestablish position, and then spent the remainder of the round in control on top. The rest of the fight went pretty much the same way. George St. Pierre has now become the most dominate Welterweight Champion in UFC history. (Moving ahead of Matt Hughes in title fight victories)
Winner: Georges St. Pierre via Unanimous Decision (49-46, 50-45, 50-45)
The long hard life fighters lead is extremely different from fighter to fighter. Back-rounds vary, stories differ, however one goal remains true for most fighters; and that is a contract with the UFC. Andre Fili took one more step closer to that goal last night with a unanimous decision victory over a very game Enoch Wilson at Tachi Palace Fights 15 in Lemoore California.
Utilizing his superior length Fili was able to open up the fight by frustrating Wilson with his jab. After eating a few head turning shots, Wilson was able to secure a take-down but was unable to keep position as Fili was able to reverse into a dominant position and land strikes from Wilson’s guard.
The second round was very similar to the first, however about halfway through the frame Wilson caught Fili with a whiplash like spinning back-fist that immediately gave Wilson confidence to continue attacking on his feet. Even though he was able to close Fili’s eye with a right hook, once on the ground Fili was able to control most of the round, with the only offense from Wilson being a failed kimura attempt from bottom.
With his eye completely closed, and fight seemingly in his favor Fili could have just cruised to a majority decision. However he began the round like a fighter behind, with excellent distance striking and counter punching. Fili was even able to secure a round securing take-down late, that enabled him to sap the last of the fight from Wilson.
Winning 30-27 on all score cards Andre Fili is hoping to make his way to the UFC soon, where he would join his team Alpha Male brothers Urijah Faber, Joseph Benevides, Chad Mendes, and Danny Castillo who are already on the roster.
Fighter Analysis: At 5-10 the Sacramento native is extremely long for 145 lbs. Very range established striker, with deceptively good ground game. Strong athlete, with excellent agility. Able to establish range with both hands and feet! With 11 wins and only 1 loss that was due to a knee injury, he has the record and the pedigree to make the big stage in his very next fight. Andre Fili is a can’t miss prospect in the 145 lbs division, with an established team supporting him I would not be surprised to see him in the UFC by the middle of next year!
Analysis: Both fighters are looking to stake a claim to the next welterweight title shot with a win on Saturday. Martin Kampmann is one of the purest strikers in the division, he is able to use superior footwork to keep his opponent of balance. Johny Hendricks, may have the hardest left hand, in the weight class, with wins over Jon Fitch and Josh Koscheck, Hendricks has the pedigree, and ability to be a champion!
Prediction: Hendricks via 2rd rd TKO
Middleweight (185lbs)
Tom Lawlor 7-4-0
vs
Francis Carmont 19-7-0
Analysis: Tom Lawlor recently rebounded from his loss to title hopeful Chris Weidman with a impressive victory over Jason Macdonald that only took .50 seconds. Francis Carmont is riding a 8 fight win streak. A training partner of Georges St. Pierre, Carmont is looking to establish himself as one of the divisions rising stars!
Prediction: Carmont via submission rd 2
Middleweight (185lbs)
Costantinos Philippou 11-2-0
vs
Nick Ring 13-1-0
Analysis: This fight is an early candidate for fight of the night! Both fighters have established themselves as grinders, having won most of there fights by decision. Ring possesses a great all around game, with excellent wrestling and submissions skills. Philippou has improved with every fight since his loss to Nick Catone by decision. A member of the Serra/Longo fight team, Phillipou is also no stranger to the submission game, although his strength is striking.
Prediction: Nick Ring via decision
Featherweight (145lbs)
Pablo Garza 11-3-0
vs
Mark Hominick 20-11-0
In wrestling one of the most popular matches is the “Loser Leaves Town” scenario. Although wrestling is fake, this scenario is very real for both of these fighters. Both are coming off of losses, and are on the verge of being cut from the ever expanding UFC roster. Hominick was once considered one of the best in the division. A student of the late great Sean Tompkins, Hominick possesses excellent striking skills, and a pretty solid all around game. Pablo Garza started his career in the UFC impressively winning both of his first two fights. Since then he has dropped two connective fights to Dennis Bermudez and Dustin Poirer. Garza’s back is against the wall,
Prediction: Hominick via 2nd rd TKO
UFC Welterweight Championship
Georges St. Pierre 22-2-0
vs
Carlos Condit 28-5-0
Coming off almost a 600 day layoff from his last fight finally GSP is back in the mix. One of the best pound for pound fighters GSP possesses one of the most well rounded games in all of MMA. He can stand and bang, wrestle, box, and he can put you to sleep! One of the most dominate champions in all of Combat sports, GSP is running from a knee injury headlong into a waiting Carlos Condit. His win over Nick Diaz proved Carlos Condit is a legitimate Champion. His Muay Thai, and kick boxing is vicious. And he has been training non stop for this fight, since before GSP had surgery! Both fighters are healthy, and in prime condition. This should be a great fight!
Rumors in the MMA world were bouncing like crazy this week, when TMZ prematurely reported that Ronda Rousey became the first ever woman fighter signed to the UFC. In a way, TMZ was correct but not in the traditional sense. The truth is Ronda Rousey is and has been signed under the Zuffa umbrella for quite some time.
In March 2011 Zuffa purchased the struggling California-based promotion, most believed the company would be folded in immediately, as was the WEC previously. However, Zuffa maintained the separation of both entities when Dana White was unable to negotiate a new television deal with Showtime; which consequently expires in February. After cancelling the last two events it was obvious that Zuffa’s red-headed step child was going to soon be left for dead. One obvious question beams. What happens to the fighters like Rousey, who are already under contract with Strikeforce.
The answer is still being debated, however several sources in China for the UFC of FUEL TV 6 event have confirmed that the UFC will not need to ‘sign’ any of these fighters, because they are already signed. They simply have to continue honoring their end of the deal. since Zuffa is the parent company for both entities, the UFC will simply pick and chose the fighters they want to keep, and fold them into to the current roster. Those that the UFC brass deem not to be ready, or worthy will surely be bought out of the remaining time left on their contract.
Is this large influx of talent good for the UFC? Unlike the WEC buyout(which brought two new weight classes), most of the upper echelon fighters in Strikeforce will be entering already congested waters. For fighters such as Luke Rockhold, Gilbert Melendez, Nate Marquardt, and Daniel Cormier there is not much to worry about. As the top dogs they will certainly be brought into the UFC realm. The women’s division it seems would also be safe, as the UFC will need someone for Rousey to fight!. However the rest of the roster, aside from a few big name contenders are left in limbo.
Any infusion of talent should lead to more exciting fights. However, with the roster already swollen more events must result. Another interesting thought will be the importation of fighters into the Bellator tournament format, which is in need of a talent infusion.
All of this remains “unofficial” for now Strikeforce has one event left on their docket, but the writing is on the wall. Strikeforce’s imminent demise will certainly allow some other promotion to rise from the depths of obscurity. Rumors are already swirling that Showtime and CFA are in talks to pick up where Strikeforce left off. One man gathers what another man spills!
Jeff Hougland (10-5 MMA, 1-1 UFC) vs. Takeya Mizugaki (15-7-2 MMA, 2-2 UFC)
Both of these bantamweight strikers were originally scheduled to face each other at UFC 151, which was cancelled due to a string of injuries. Coming off recent losses, each fighter finds themselves in a must win situation. With a history of alternating wins and losses that dates back to 2009, Mizugaki should be able to continue the trend with his elusive defense, and his superior striking.
Prediction: Mizugaki via unanimous decision
Jon Tuck (6-0 MMA, 0-0 UFC) vs. Tiequan Zhang (15-3 MMA, 1-2 UFC)
John Tuck is undefeated as a professional and possesses a definite athletic advantage. Although Zhang will have the edge with experience and the hometown crowd, Tuck should be able to push the smaller Zhang around the cage. Eventually his athleticism will prove to be too much.
Prediction: Tuck via 2nd rd TKO
Mac Danzig (21-9-1 MMA, 5-5 UFC) vs. Takanori Gomi (33-8 MMA, 2-3 UFC)
Mac Danzig rose to fame winning the ultimate fighter reality show, securing his spot in the UFC. Since then he has compiled a .500 record with some impressive wins, but some poor showings as well. Takanori Gomi is an absolute legend in the sport of MMA. Although his record in the UFC at 2-3 is not stellar, “The Fireball Kid” still has some serious striking ability. However Mac Danzig should be able to utilize his improved striking and wrestling defense to maintain position.
Prediction: Danzig via unanimous decision
Dong Hyum Kim (15-2-1 MMA, 6-2 UFC vs. Paulo Thiago (14-4 MMA, 4-4 UFC)
Both of these fighters are coming off quick losses. Kim was forced to submit after suffering a weird rib injury vs Demian Maia, and Thiago was knocked out cold by UFC newcomer Siyar Bahadurzada in just 47 seconds. Kim will hold a definitive striking advantage over Thiago, however the Brazilian does have power. Kim will need his technique to avoid the KO power of Thiago. If Thiago is able to get the fight to the mat, he will be in a more comfortable position. However, Kim has great wrestling defense, and should be able to keep Thiago’s shots at bay with his superior striking.
Prediction: Kim via TKO rd 3
Stanislav Nedkov (12-0 MMA, 1-0 UFC) vs. Thiago Silva (14-3 MMA, 5-3 UFC)
Thiago Silva was at one time one of the top fighters in the world at 205 lbs, and for good reason. His size and power, coupled with an excellent submission game make him extremely dangerous. However recent issues (failed drug test, suspension and long layoff) had taken their toll on the Brazilian born fighter. In his return, he faced an extremely game Alexander Gustafsson who was able to literally strike circles around the lumbering Silva, frustrating him all the way to a unanimous decision loss. Now Silva will look to return to form, with a new team (Blackzilians) and against a burly striker much like himself. Stanislav Nedkov is undefeated as a professional and has notable knockout victories over Luiz Cane, and Travis Wiuff. At only 5’11 he will be giving away a distinct height and reach advantage. A disadvantage he will have to overcome, as going to the ground with Silva is not an option for the Bulgarian striker.
Prediction: Silva rd submission (set up by strikes)
Rich Franklin (29-6 MMA, 14-5 UFC) vs. Cung Le (8-2 MMA, 1-1 UFC)
Although both fighters are past their primes; with only Franklin holding on to the slimmest of title aspirations, it should make for an exciting match up. Even at 40 years old, Cung Le can strike with the best in the division. His spinning liver kick may be one of the most devastating strikes ever recorded in MMA. His unique angling. and superior flexibility allow him to hit his opponent at seemingly impossible times. Rich Franklin is one of the most well rounded mixed martial artists in the history of the sport. The former school teacher, and former Middleweight Champion of the world can strike, wrestle and roll with the best. He has notable wins over Chuck Liddell, Wanderlai Silva (Twice), Nate Quarry, and many others in his storybook career. If Franklin is able to close the distance then he should be able to control Le, who has shown his weakness on the ground. Once in position the ground and pound will begin, and end!
After over 4,000 bouts and 400 events one thing is certain, The King of The Cage promotion understands how to book exciting mixed martial arts fights. Last night reinforced that position. Over the years KOTC owner Terry Trebilcock, has featured some of MMA biggest names. Fighters such as: Forrest Griffin, Quinton Rampage Jackson, Rashad Evans, Krazy Horse, Keith Berry, Mac Danzig, Paul Buentello, Urijah Faber, Joe Stevenson, Diego Sanchez and Thiago Alves were all able to make a name for themselves under the KOTC banner. A banner that served them well by acting as the launching pad for those careers.
Taking place in a large banquet room at The San Manuel Indian Bingo and Casino in Highland California, the fight card featured the promotions welterweight champion and rising star David Gomez in a title fight against Brad Burrick. As well as KOTC stalwart, and crowd favorite Johnny ‘The Tattooed Terror’ Cisneros who pushed his unblemished record to 7-0 with an impressive unanimous decision win over former World Champion Brandon Hunt. Both fighters were able to land heavy handed shots, however ‘The Tattooed Terror’ was able to takedown Hunt almost at will. Although consistently defending from bottom, Hunt was able to land a few big shots. One right hand seemed to stagger Cisneros who immediately shot in and took the fight to the mat. Everytime Hunt was able to get to his feet, Cisneros slammed him back down thunderously. Having controlled the entire fight Cisneros was awarded the 30-27 unanimous decision, thrusting him immediately into title contention.
Also featured was journeyman Tony Lopez who narrowly defeated Nick Rossborough via unpopular split decision. Lopez looked to establish his range early, but ate several big right hands from the much thicker Rossborough. Half way through the opening frame Rossborough timed a Lopez leg kick perfectly and countered with a right hand that dropped the heavyweight champion. For the rest of the round, it appeared Lopez was on rubber legs. For the rest of the fight, Lopez was able to dictate where the fight went, often pressuring Rossborough up against the cage as he delivered good shots to the body. However Rossborough continued to land the bigger shots. With the judges scorecards reading 29-28, 28-29, 30-27 in favor of Lopez, the entire room was wondering what fight one of those judges was watching. Terry Treblicock came over too press row immediately after the fight, blasting the decision and generously announcing that Rossborough was going to get his ‘win’ money as well.
Early on the card, both Joshua Aveles and Jason Walraven won in dominating fashion. Aveles systematically broke down a much stronger opponent Marcus Mowers with blood curdling leg kicks that echoed throughout the hall. After two rounds, Mowers was advised by doctors not to continue due to a obviously injured knee. Jason Walraven took control of Jason Ireland at the bell, utilizing his decided height advantage to land a vicious head kick, that he parlayed into a double leg takedown. Moving in and out of side control Walraven was eventually able to take Ireland’s back with both hooks in, Walraven secured the rear naked choke at 3:13 of the very first round.
Sam Liera 170 lbs contender secured his title shot with a big win over Scott Catlin. After being dropped early, Liera was able to utilize his dominant wrestling to control position clearly winning the first round. As the second frame began Liera was able to secure a single leg takedown, that he eventually worked to back mount. Once there a few left hands flattened out Catlin and the choke was applied. With the victory Liera immediately earns a title shot against David Gomez who completely dismantled Brad Burrick in less than two minutes. Utilizing his excellent wrestling pedigree Gomez was able to end the night, with a quick takedown and some vicious ground and pound that left Burrick near ‘dreamland’. With this impressive win, Gomez has secured himself as one of the promotions pound for pound champions.
With recent UFC fight controversies, and questionable match-ups it was refreshing to see a promotion that designs fights based on rankings and performances. In the UFC things don’t always make sense. Fights are based on popularity, and maybe even network ratings. The King of The Cage promotion in many ways makes more sense, fighters there have different motivations. Most are looking to make a name for themselves, to rise to the larger shows. Others are just trying to stay in the game, to remain relevant in some way. However they all seem to be loyal to Terry Treblicock, and to the promotion as a whole. That loyalty speaks volumes for the integrity of the business. In the vast world of MMA The King of The Cage is making incredible contributions to the sport, and has quietly become one of the most exciting promotions not just nationally, but globally.
Martin Kampmann 20-5-0
Johny Hendricks 13-1-0
Tom Lawlor 7-4-0
Francis Carmont 19-7-0
Costantinos Philippou 11-2-0
Nick Ring 13-1-0
Pablo Garza 11-3-0
Mark Hominick 20-11-0
Georges St. Pierre 22-2-0
Carlos Condit 28-5-0
THE CLINCH REPORT 