Spar Star MMA Live from Hollywood Park Casino

Posted: January 25, 2014 in Combat Sports, UFC
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
1

Live coverage of Spar Star MMA. From The Hollywood Park Casino

Fight #1: Eric Castodio (2-0) v Jacob Rosales (3-0) 145 lbs  3×2 min Rounds.

Rd1: Referee Miylan Ayers calling the action. Both fighters start with heavy punches and kicks, Rosales with he take down, and now looking for the choke. Castodio fighting the hands, and now gets ahold of Rosales’s neck momentarily. Rosales now back on top. Castodio controlling the posture well and lands a up kick on the break., Castodio again looks for the choke, but Rosales gets free and lands in the guard as the round comes to a close.

Rd2: Nice right hand from Rosales rocks Castodio, but he is able to instigate the clinch. Rosales again with heavy hands. Castodio with a nice leg kick but then eats some more punches from Rosales. Rosales now working in the closed guard.Rosales back to his feet for a moment before attempting to take the back. Castodio reverses position and finishes the round in top position.

Rd3: Rosales starts busy, landing with both hands, but Castodio still has plenty left. Rosales with a nice knee from the clinch, and lands with the right hand follow. Nice judo throw from Rosales has Castodio on the ground for a moment, but he bounces up and throws a nice leg kick that finds a home. Rosales plods forward with the jab, and finishes the round with a nice flurry.

Winner: 30-27 via Unanimous Decision Jacob Rosales 

Fight #2 Mario Lopez (0-1) v Carlos Chavez (0-0) 170 lbs 3×2 Min Rds

Rd1: Referee Larry Landless in charge of the action. Chavez with a nice leg kick, but Lopez counters with a push kick. Nice counter right hand from Lopez. Chavez with a lead left hook that finds a home, then a leg kick. Big right hand from Chavez drops Lopez, Chavez unable to capitalize, but then achieves mount. Now looking for the back, but the round comes to a close.

Rd2: Lopez flirts with the lead left, but eats a counter from Chavez. Lopez moving backwards, as Chavez looks for the big shot. Lopez pushes back the advancing Chavez with a push kick. Both fighters exchange counters. Low blow by Lopez prompts a stoppage. On the restart, both fighters exchange right hands, but then Chavez lands with a nice left that backs up Lopez. Nice body kick from Lopez as the round comes to a close.

Rd3: Lopez looks to be the busier fighter as the final frame begins. Nice side kick from Lopez. Chavez with a chopping leg kick. Lopez keeps switching stances, but eats a short left from Chavez. Nice right hand from Chavez, but Lopez answers with one of his own, followed by a leg kick. Both fighters going for it, Lopez eats a huge right and goes down right before the round ends.

Winner: 29-28 30-27 30-27 Carlos Chavez via UD

Fight #3: Jesse Fox (0-1) v Bryce Zarraga (0-0) 3×2 min Rds 155 lbs

Rd1: Both fighters touch gloves and we are underway. Fox moving well, but Zarraga able to land with the jab. Long feeling out process, but a huge left from Fox drops Zarraga. Fox now working in the closed guard. He postures up and lands some big ground and pound as the round comes to a close.

Rd2: Zarraga shoots for a take down, but Fox sprawls away. Zarraga relentlessly attacking the single leg, but Fox is able to defend. Nice knee to the body by Fox, as both fighters clinch. Nice leg kick from Fox. Zarraga ducks under a left and again shoots to no avail. Fox defending well against the take down but un able to provide any offense.

Rd3: Nice kick to the body by Fox, and now its Fox pressing Zarraga against the cage. Fox working in Zarraga’s guard. Zarraga looks to hit a switch, but Fox is able to take the neck. Front chancery from Fox, as he drags Zarraga to the mat. Fox looking for an arm, decides to finish the fight landing ground and pound.

Winner: Jesse Fox via UD 

Fight #4: Angel Gonzalez (1-0) v Tanner Grant (1-0) 3×2 min Rds 145 lbs

Rd1: The third man in the cage is again Larry Landless. Grant starts out snapping the jab. Grant able to get the back of Gonzalez, but unable to get in his hooks. Now he has both hooks in, but Gonzalez defends the choke well. Great job hand fighting from Gonzalez but he is still in trouble. Gonzalez is able to survive the round.

Rd2: Big kick from Gonzalez lands but Grant with a nice take down. Both fighters scramble on the mat, but Grant able to get top position. Grant in the half guard looking to mount. Gonzalez holding on, as Grant tries to posture up. Shoulder shrugs from Grant. Nice right hand on the ground from Grant. Both fighters too their feet as the round ends.

Rd3: Grant comes out strong again, and quickly gets to the back of Gonzalez. Gonzalez again defends the choke well. Big ground and pound from Grant breaks up the search for a submission. Both hooks in for Grant, as more right hands find the side of Gonzalez’s head. Round comes to a close.

Winner: Grant via UD

Fight #5: Dominick Reyes (1-0) v Tywone Cotton (0-0) 3×2 Min Rounds 205lbs

Rd1: Milan Ayers will call the action. Both fighters start and land with low kicks, Reyes using the legs to establish the distance, then closes with a multiple punch combination. Leg Kick from reyes. Reyes pumping the jab, cotton is in trouble and he goes down. That is it.

Winner: Reyes via TKO Rd 1

Fight #6 Henry Mendez (1-2) v Antonio Vazquez (1-1) 3×2 min Rounds 145 lbs

Rd1: Larry Landless the third man in the cage. Vazquez looks for a take down and gets it. Mendez closes the guard, as Vazquez looks to land. Referee stands them up. Vazquez again gets the take down. Mendez looks for a triangle, and has it deep, but Vazquez escapes. Now back in Mendez Guard, Vazquez looking to posture up as the round comes to a close.

Rd2: Vazquez again gets the take down, but the ref stands them up after no action. Vazquez again brings the fight to the mat, however Mendez reverses position.  Vazquez controls the posture as Mendez looks to start with the ground and pound but the round comes to an end.

Rd3: Mendez looks for another take down, but Vazquez able to defend. Only to be taken down a moment later. Vazquez able to tie up Mendez forcing the stand up. Mendez again with another take down. Vazquez closes the guard and looks for an arm before the round and the fight come to an end.

Winner: Vazquez via UD

Fight #7 Kevin Widdoes (1-0) v Jose Antonio Ahumada (0-0)

Rd1: Widdoes starts out pressing the action. Nice leg kick lands before the fight goes to the mat. Widdoes looking to mount from the 1/2 guard and he gets it. Big ground and pound from Widdoes, as the Ref looks in and that is it!

Winner: Kevin Widdoes via TKO rd 1

Fight #8 Derrick Martinez (0-2) v Lionel Mathews (0-0) 265 lbs 3x 2 min Rounds

Winner: Martinez via KO :22 Rd 1

Keith Kizer Steps Down as NSAC Chair, How Long Until Belfort Applies for TUE?

Posted: January 12, 2014 in Combat Sports, UFC
Tags: , , ,
0

 

With the announcement that Keith Kizer, would be stepping down as the NSAC chairman it becomes apparent that this move will likely open the door for Vitor Belfort. Kizer has long maintained an ‘anti TUE exception’ stance for those fighters who had previously tested positive for steroids. Now over 40 years old, Belfort has received a therapeutic exemption in other states, and Brazil, but had avoided fighting in Vegas because of the refusal from the commission to allow his testosterone therapy.

Belfort recently stated he would fight without his TUE therapy, if he had too, although it would be “unfair”! Now that Kizer is out of the picture, it appears Belfort will at least receive consideration for his usage. The timing could not have been more perfect for the UFC (only a few weeks after naming Belfort the next in line for the 185 lbs title).

The debate will continue to rage as too the legitimacy of this therapy, but until a decision is made across the sports, it will probably toil around in a case by case basis. Allowing some, and refusing others will only fuel the fire. One way or another, the sport is going to have to commit eventually!

 

UPC 18: ‘Up and Comers’ Champions Arise in the Desert

Posted: January 7, 2014 in Combat Sports, UFC
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , ,
1
And Still......

And Still……

By: Jonathan King ‘The Clinch Report’

Photos By: John Walsh ‘The Clinch Report’

Not many are born into the UFC as professional fighters. Most rise through the regional rankings, fighting in front of half empty houses, and usually with very little that differentiates the scrap from a back yard brawl. UPC or “Up and Comers” is a promotion that offers the same grass roots level MMA, but with a much classier look and feel. 

The Agua Caliente Casino plays an amazing host, featuring a professional ‘in the round’ arena, that has stadium seating and atrium concessions, just like the big events in Las Vegas. Promoter Jason Weiner does an amazing job creating this environment, that really allows the fighter to feel like an athlete performing on a grand stage.

As a promoter, all one can do is set the stage, eventually though the fighters have to hold up their end. If you sign a contract to fight, the least you can do is show up! UPC  “Up and Comer’s 18”  was one of the oddest fight cards in recent memory. Only one fight went the distance, another ended early in the 2nd frame. All others, lasted less than 5 minutes. Among the winners were Jaime Sierra, Kyle Stewart, Chris Honeycutt, Everett Cummings, and Steven Swanson. 

Chris Honeycutt was able to defend his UPC Middleweight title while dominating his opponent throughout the first round. Although Jake Gallagher was able to defend at first, Honeycutt’s smothering attack and relentless pressure forced the TKO stoppage late in the first round. Honeycutt, now stands undefeated at 4-0, and continues to be one of the sports top young prospects.

The night, however belonged to TRU MMA. Although Troy Guerrero lost a close decision (to a very gritty David Lopez), Jaime Sierra and Steve Swanson were able to get the hometown crowd charged up, with exciting stoppages. Gareth De La Cruz, however was left without a fight, as his opponent never showed up. 

Also having a big night were the military fight team from Fight Club 29. Coach Mark Geletko’s marines had a great night, as both Kyle Stewart, and Marcus Baungard were able to secure dominating wins. Unfortunately, a few other fighters also lost their opportunity too fight, because again, opponents never showed up!

Not every card can be a memorable night of fights. The hurt business can be very unpredictable. Last second injuries, and replacements can mar a fight card and cause resentment with the fans. However, in this instance both the commission and the promoter were not too blame. This time unfortunately, unprofessional fighters are the reason. It comes down to being a man of your word. One can only imagine the opportunity that was taken from another deserving fighter.

By not showing up you disrespect the sport, the fans, your opponents, and the martial arts in general. 

 

All photos, videos and original content are owned by The Clinch Report, LLC. Any unauthorized use is strictly prohibited. We have, can, and will protect our content in a court of law. If you would like information on obtaining a license to use content, please contact news@theclinchreport.com

Up and Comers 18 Live From The Agua Caliente Casino

Posted: January 4, 2014 in Combat Sports, UFC
Tags: , , , , , , , ,
1

First Fight: Marcus Baungard v Levi O’Connell 135 lbs:

Rd 1: Brief exchange before Baungard lands a huge left right combo that drops O’Connell in a heap. Referee Maylan Ayers calls a stop too the bout.

Winner:Marcus Baungard via TKO Rd 1 :13

Second Fight: Jesse Basillio v Christian Santiago

Rd 1: Crafty hands from Santiago land several hard shots. Basilio able to take them and then reverses position on a takedown.  Both back to there feet. santiago rolls through and takes Basillio’s back. Choke looks deep as time is running out. Larry Landless sees the tap and halts the bout with only seconds remaining.!

Winner: Christian Santiago via RNC  1:49

Third Fight: David Lopez (1-0)  v Troy Guerrero (1-0)

Rd 1: Guerrero very loose with his hands, but Lopez staying tough and even lands a few of his own. Nice kicks from Guerrero but Lopez gets a leg and secures the take down. Lopez riding out the round in top position reigning down some serious Ground and Pound!

Rd 2: More aggression from Gerrero to start, and his takes down Lopez before letting him up. Nice combo before the clinch from Lopez, presses the action against the cage. Guerrero breaks free and lands a huge right hand.  Lopez hangs tough, and eats a few more hard shots from Guerrero. Lopez looks for a take down, but the round ends.

Rd 3: Busy legs from Guerrero, and a nice upper cut find there home.  Lopez leaking a little from his nose, as Guerrero gets the take down. Lopez looks for the neck, but Guerrero breaks free. Now looking for a leg, Lopez looking for the arm bar, but Guerrero roll through. Still has the arm, but Guerrero able to hold in until the bell.

Winner: David Lopez via UD (29-28) 

Fourth Fight: Chris Honeycutt v Jake Gallagher for 185 Lbs UPC Title

Rd 1: Deep leg kicks from Honeycutt, as Gallagher circles away. Honeycutt able to bring the fight to the mat, where he is able to obtain mount. Gallagher doing his best to stay alive, but punches are coming in bunches, and Larry Landless calls an end to the fight. Gallgher with the doctor for  prolonged period justifying a great stoppage by a veteran referee.

Winner: Chris ‘The Cutt’ Honeycutt via TKO Rd 1 and Still 185 lbs UPC Champion

Fifth Fight: Joe Cisneros v Everett Cummings

Rd 1: Nice take down from Cisneros as Cummings wraps up with the rubber guard, before closing the traditional guard. Nice roll through by Cummings, and he immediatley get an arm. Cisneros tries to break free but the tap comes quickly.

Winner: Everrett Cummings via Arm bar Submission And New UPC 205 Lbs Champion

Amateur Bout: Jeremy Barrett v Kyle Stewart

Rd 1: Kyle Stewart moving forward right away, a brief exchange leads to a clinch and Stewart tosses Barrett to the mat. Quick transition to the back from Stewart, and he pulls the RNC, forcing the tap/

Winner: Via RNC Kyle Stewart.

‘Lil’ Steven Swanson: “Organized Destruction” the Desert Breed

Posted: January 3, 2014 in Combat Sports
0

‘Lil’ Steven Swanson: “Organized Destruction” the Desert Breed.

 

‘Lil’ Steven Swanson: “Organized Destruction” the Desert Breed

Posted: January 2, 2014 in Combat Sports, UFC
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
1

By: Jonathan King The Clinch Report

Watching ‘Lil’ Steven Swanson fight is eerily reminiscent to watching his younger brother, UFC Fighter Cub Swanson. Both have aggressive styles, that lead too entertaining scraps that rarely contain a wasted moment. Going back too last year, Swanson was 10-0, at the top of a burgeoning division, and admittedly even he was drinking his own cool aid!

Then after dominating his 11th opponent for most of the fight, a flailing triangle choke from bottom came out of no where, and cost him the fight and his undefeated status. A few months later another submission loss followed, this time an armbar not only ended the  night, but caused a serious injury.

“It wasn’t just the ground fighting, my cardio was gone as well.” Swanson said.”What I have come to realize, is that 90% of people need to feel the loss, in order too stay hungry.” Swanson said. The consecutive losses not only gave Swanson perspective, they pointed out glaring holes in his game. Holes not in technique or in skill, but in his general approach too the sport. “When I was 10-0 I was on top of everything, I wasn’t training as hard, and I let my ego kind of slip in.” Swanson said.

Now, Swanson has rededicated himself too his craft. With younger brother (UFC Featherweight contender) Cub Swanson in his corner, the elder Swanson has learned to harness and organize his ruthless aggression. “One of the hardest things for me is the controlled aggression, because I want to go in there and rip there heads off, but if you throw a few of those swings, then there goes your gas tank!” Swanson said. “I’ve learned how to control that,  and its a lot harder than people think…to be calm when someone is wailing punches at you.”

With him every step of the way is his brother, sometimes with just a word of advice. “Its sometimes difficult for me being the older brother taking advice from my younger brother, but he is so level headed and so its hard for me to argue.” Swanson said. “I can’t tell you how much he has helped me, and when I’m fighting its all business!”

That business is thriving in the desert. “We are a different breed in the desert!” Swanson said. With the Swanson brothers, Dionisio Ramirez, Jaime Sierra, Gareth de la Cruz, Troy Guerrero, Christian Santiago and the rest of his TRU MMA teammates, it would be difficult to argue. Together they have amassed one of the most impressive records on the regional scene, placing several fighters on the UFC and Bellator MMA’s  immediate radar.

Swanson will make his next appearance fighting under the UPC banner, at “Up and Comers 18” on January 4th at the Agua Caliente Casino. As of the interview, he still had not received his opponent yet. “Typically I just look at the record, and watch a little video, but I dont like too dwell on him.” Swanson said. “I’d rather concentrate on my own training.”

For Swanson, the return to the cage offers a chance to display his new found “organized destruction” in front of a large crowd and in a grand venue. “Not only is the venue absolutely beautiful, its in my home town, and my family is from that tribe so it makes it that much sweeter!” Swanson said.

A win in front of his family and friends will not only return the elder Swanson too his winning ways, but it might be enough to carry him to the next level.

Tickets for the event can be found here: http://bit.ly/18QWiAE

And information about the Promotion and Event can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/events/552369111513557/

Fight Club 29: Mixed Martial Arts in Purest and Most Amazing Form

Posted: December 25, 2013 in Combat Sports, UFC
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
0

By: Jonathan King The Clinch Report

Competition in its most basic form, exists simply, well,  because!  The desire to compete  does not require victory, or even decisions. As humans, it can’t be denied that in our nature is a fundamental desire too compete. Woven into the fabric of our being is the need to test our own skills against that of another.

Mixed martial arts offers a very pure form of competition that can satisfy that urge on a very raw, and basic level. Although it is cliche to compare fighting too warfare, as Josh Barnett once said, mixed martial arts is a ‘watered down’ version of combat. And although some people fight for the glory of having there hands raised, others find solace in competition alone.

Like fighters, soldiers are a different breed. They possess a different mind set, and the experience of warfare has offered some of them life lessons most of us cannot even imagine. The daily discipline, and regiment based life is not for everyone, and in many ways the daily goal based regimen resembles the training of a fighter in many ways.

At Fight Club 29 in 29 Palms California, head trainer Mark Geletko formed a fight team made up entirely of military members, mostly Marines and their immediate family members. Geletko, a  former  kick boxer with a strong boxing background first started the team as a way to stay in shape. “I started Fight Club 29 in 2005, when I first got returned from Iraq” Geletko said. Since then, the gym has seen a constant rotation of young men and woman, who are all at different stages of their military careers.

The reasons vary for those who choose to train at Fight Club  29 vary. “A lot of us, just need to stay busy!” Geletko said. “As military personnel, we all tend to be ‘Alpha’ personalities, but we are also very much team oriented.” Others train simply because they love to compete. “Fighting is a high level of competition, and a lot of these guys are just looking for the next challenge!” Galetko said.

Three fighters from the team are actually competing on January 4th at The Agua Caliente Casino, under the “Up and Comers” or “UPC” banner. Promoter Jason Weiner has been a constant friend to the Fight Club 29 Team, and is giving three of Galetko’s fighters an opportunity too shine on a grand scale. “Our guys love fighting for Jason, especially at Agua Caliente, they have huge dressing rooms, and always treat the fighters really well.”

Fighting on January 4th, are: Kyle Stewart 170 lbs  (4-1) who has completed 3 tours of duty, Justin Robinson Heavyweight (3-2) who is a fireman at 29 Palms and is also the current BATCH Fights Heavyweight Boxing Champion, and Omar Romero 185 lbs (3-0) who served in Iraq, and is a Purple Heart recipient. Ryan Donnelly (3-0) is not on the card, but is an Afghan vet who will be fighting for Cali Cage Wars.

“Currently we have about 12 guys, 8 are fighting in MMA.” Geletko said. “We even have one woman fighting for us, Kathryn Proudfoot (1-0) as a boxer.” Unfortunately, the military’s ever changing schedule only has each fighter averaging about 2 years of training, before they move on, or get out of the military. Its a transit fight club, but one that serves a very important purpose.

Unfortunately, recent military cuts have left the Fight Club 29 to rely on private donations. Currently companies like Oscar Mike, Dethrone Royalty, Bad Boy, and Ecko have helped out with clothing, but our soldiers deserve a lot more. For those interested in helping Fight Club 29 with either Gear, Equipment, or Financial support please contact MGeletko@yahoo.com.

UPC 18 will be taking place on January 4th. The card will feature 2 World Title fights, and Top MMA Prospects Chris Honeycutt, Steve Swanson, Everett Cummings, and Jaime Sierra will all be in action at The Agua Caliente Casino here is the link for details: https://www.facebook.com/events/552369111513557/

UPC-18-MMA-Poster

‘Lethal’ By Reputation: Lewis Gonzalez Fighting for WSOF 155 lbs Title

Posted: December 20, 2013 in Combat Sports, UFC
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , ,
0

By: Jonathan King The Clinch Report

When you see Lewis Gonzalez (9-0 MMA, 1-0 WSOF) for the first time in person, after watching him fight its almost as if you are meeting a completely different person. Inside the cage, he is a physical specimen with an incredible wrestling pedigree, that is complimented well by a very aggressive ‘in your face’ style of fighting. His demeanor outside the cage however is quite different. With a boyish innocence, and a earthy smile its easy too like Gonzalez, unless of course you have to fight him.

Undefeated mostly at the regional level, Gonzalez is somewhat unique. Most fighters at this point in his career have bloated records against marginal competition. But with impressive wins over Bellator prospect Justin Baseman early in his career and UFC Veteran Antonio McKee at his WSOF debut, Gonzalez is seasoned beyond years would appear.

So, when JZ Cavalcante fell out his scheduled title fight against Justin Gaethje (10-0 MMA 2-0 WSOF) due too injury, Gonzalez became the logical replacement. When the call came, it didn’t take long for Gonzalez to decide. “I was on my way to wrestling practice, when my manager Dave Hirschbein called!”  Gonzalez said. “And although the nerves will be up for this fight, once you make contact, the nerves disappear and it will be a fight like every other!”

His opponent Gaethje is regarded by many as the crown jewel prospect in the WSOF roster, and Gonzalez understands why. “He goes for it in every fight!” Gonzalez said. “He is a tough fighter, that is for sure!” However, although he finds Gaethje entertaining, he doesn’t seem worried about his striking. “I’m gonna be right in his face the whole time.” Gonzalez said.

In his last fight against McKee, Gonzalez was able to smother one of the most notorious grinders in the history of MMA. Although the fight ended prematurely (Technical decision low blow),  the fight was never in question. Many thought the win was a huge upset, however Gonzalez was disappointed. “I wanted too finish, but It ended the way it did…in the end, I had to out grind The Grinder.”

Now, Gonzalez is faced with his toughest competition too date. In Gaethje he faces another young, undefeated fighter, who is hungry to win his first  world title. Gaethje is a heavy handed wrestler who may not be technical in all aspects of the game, but he is dangerous in every position, something Gonzalez understands quite well. “He is a dangerous guy, he throws heavy hands, and he is a wrestler like I am!” Gonzalez said. “However, he has a tendency to get caught out of position, and when he does he leaves himself open!”

Those openings will definitely be the focus for his team as he prepares for this fight.  Gonzalez is currently part of the Nor-Cal MMAGOLD stable, and also trains at the Delhi Boxing Club that according to Gonzalez is the key to his success. “My manager brings in top guys to train with, and puts me up when I travel, so I am able to get a good mix of training.” Gonzalez said.  “Its awesome having a team with over 20 guys that never miss practice.”

Heading into the January 18th bout as the underdog is not something that bothers Gonzalez. ” I was the underdog in the McKee fight, I’ve been the underdog most of my career.” Gonzalez said. “I don’t mind being the underdog!”

Lewis Gonzalez is Sponsored By: Gamma Labs, Blood Happens, RBP, WAR Athletic, West Coast Nutrition, Jaco Athletic, 86 Athletics, APEX Solutions, MMAPINK and Lexani. You can follow him on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LewisGonzalez9

Lewis is part of MMAGold Fight Team:  http://mmagold.com/

And trains primarily at The Delhi Boxing Club, in Delhi California.

Spar Star MMA Teams with Tapout LA For Grass Roots MMA At Its Best!

Posted: December 11, 2013 in Combat Sports, UFC
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
0

By: Jonathan King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

Mixed Martial Arts is one of the fastest growing sports in the world. The popularity of the UFC has crept into the mainstream, and given birth to a whole new generation of fighters that cut their teeth on the local scene. For these fighters, the ‘steel sharpens steel’ mentality has created the need for amateur competitions to showcase and test the skills learned.

These “local” shows have the look and feel of the old school smokers, however with CAMO watching closely, the fights and fighters are regulated and safety is always the number one concern.

Spar Star MMA has been consistently putting on amazing fights at the amateur level, and for this event they teamed with Tapout LA Gym to exhibit some of the best young fighters in the area. This night continued that trend. With promoters like Tony Padilla (T Bone Steakz), and gyms like Tapout, the amateur MMA scene  in Southern California has a bright future!

Below is a photo gallery of some of the evenings fights. In between each fight were several ’round robin’ jujitsu exhibitions that gave several young athletes the opportunity to highlight their individual art.

‘Chaos in The Casino’ A Night of Combat: MMA, Boxing, Muay Thai

Posted: December 2, 2013 in Combat Sports, UFC
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
0
Sevak Magakian unable to walk, but still gets the win!

Sevak Magakian unable to walk, but still gets the win!

By:Jonathan King The Clinch Report
Photos By:John Walsh The Clinch Report

What makes a great mixed martial artist? If you were to create a sort of MMA ‘Frankenstein’ what characteristics would you start with? The myriad of skills that make up a fighter can be debated for ages, as to which is the most important. However, there is only one that cannot be taught: Determination.

There have been many instances where a fighter has simply refused to loose, despite injury or adversity. Team Hayastan fighter Sevak Magakian (13-4 MMA) is the latest artist to enter that pantheon of gritty, scrappers that make this sport such an enjoyment to watch.

Early in his fight with TUF Alumni Chris Saunders (10-6 MMA) at ‘Chaos in The Casino’ at Hollywood Park Casino, it became apparent that Magakian suffered a devastating leg injury. Later on the extent of the injury was revealed to be a dislocated ankle, and a broken leg! Not only was he able to finish the round, but with a double leg take down, and his counter strikes, Magakian was able to win the frame.

Once in his corner, a look of concern washed over everyone in the corner. Magakian told his coach Gokor Chivichyan the extent of his injury. However, quitting was not an option. So, into the second round he limped.

Once again Magakian was able to land the cleaner strikes, and again appeared to be building a clear advantage with points. Saunders who began attacking the injured leg, for some reason relented his assault, and ended up playing right into Magakian’s game plan.

Once the third round began, Saunders appeared to be in desperation mode, but a foot injury also hampered his efforts. Magakian was able to cruise to a unanimous decision victory, in a fight that will be remembered by all who watched as one of the most incredible displays of courage ever witnessed inside of a cage.

Unlike the cliche states, not every ‘win is a win’! In this case,  a win defines much more than a number in a column. In this case ‘the win’ represents the best in people. Magakian has a bright future ahead, one that will certainly place him on a larger stage, however this fight maybe the one that defines him best.

Lights Out Promotions also featured several Muay Thai and Boxing fights that evening as well, making it an all round combat sports card. Please check out the photo gallery bellow.

All images and content are the property of The Clinch Report, LLC registered with the state of Nevada.  Any unauthorized use of the images or content is expressly prohibited. Please contact us at news@theclinchreport.com for further information.

Older Entries
Newer Entries