In a Moment The Warrior Punches His Ticket to The UFC

Posted: June 4, 2016 in Combat Sports, UFC
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Albert Morales needs only 20 seconds to leap beyond the RFA cage and inside the UFC Octagon.

Albert Morales needs only 20 seconds to leap beyond the RFA cage and inside the UFC Octagon.

By: Jonathan M. King

Photos By: John Walsh

 

“Isolated, with no before or after, But a lifetime burning in every moment…” Thomas Stearns Elliot

Last night lightning struck, the moons lined up and everything went according to plan for Albert Morales now (6-0). After losing an earlier scheduled opponent ‘The Warrior’ needed an opponent. Fights fall off, its just part of the game. However the only fighter willing to accept the bout on short notice was a much more seasoned opponent. Mario Israel came into the bout with a (10-1), a world of experience and he was also on a short list of fighters UFC President Dana White and UFC Matchmaker Sean Shelby were there to witness.

It took Albert Morales 20 seconds to spoil there plans. It took Albert Morales 20 seconds to silence his doubters. It took Albert Morales 20 seconds to secure his place in the UFC! However, the moment was years in the making. Morales has been steadily improving as a fighter. From his days as Spar Star MMA champion, to his pro debut and win under the Bellator MMA banner, Morales continues to rise to every challenge put in front of him. Now his greatest challenge ahead.

Now a part of the UFC roster, Morales will certainly face his toughest test yet. Getting to the UFC is like graduating high school, the big fish leaves the little pond, for the big sea but quickly they realize they are swimming among sharks!

Weather or not Morales continues to find the same success at the next level will as always depend solely on his effort. The path before him has been blazed and continues to be by great men and women. The formula is not a secret. Hard work, and effort will define or its absence will sink any ship that floats in the UFC sea. As talented as Morales is, he cannot rely on that alone. Every horse that runs in the UFC is a thoroughbred. Only time will tell if ‘The Warrior’ is ready for the stakes, but if last night is any indication, it is obvious ‘The Warrior’ is capable of burningΒ a lifetime in any moment.

Check out the Image gallery bellow from Last night, and some other Albert Morales “Moments”

With Fond Memories, Spar Star MMA Closes Out A Historic Run At The Hollywood Park

Posted: May 20, 2016 in Combat Sports, UFC
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By: Jonathan M. King

Photos By: John Walsh

The Hollywood Park Casino has always been friendly to theΒ combat sports. Since openings its doors in 1994 beneathΒ the shadow of its big brother the world famous horse racing facility of the same name, the Hollywood Park has been in the fight business. Of the many who hosted events at the Hollywood Park, two promotions had the credentials to call the place home.

One of those promotions Spar Star MMA will be hosting their last ever event at the Hollywood Park. Since 2012, Spar Star MMA has hosted an astonishing 21 events within the doors of the casino, offering countless fighters the opportunity to showcase their skills. Many of those fighters have moved on to the big shows like Bellator MMA and the UFC.

Saying goodbye to the Hollywood Park will be certainly bring a nostalgic malaise, however Spar Star MMA memories will continue to keep you warm and fuzzy on the inside. Some great fights, some incredible knockouts, and who can forget the time Dub-C and the fellas tore the roof off the building?

Saturday will truly be a bittersweet day. The end of an era. Places like the Hollywood Park Casino have always been a refuge for the emerging fighters. They offered a haven for promotions to build the fighters, creating a consistent environment for grass roots campaigns to become professional endeavors. Places like these are certainly an endangered species.

Spar Star of course will continue. Although the goodbye is bittersweet the truth is they had somewhat out grown the venue.

Make sure you head out to the show early, the event will certainly sell out. Click here:Β For Tickets. Β The event will also be streaming live courtesy of our friends at The Global Combat Network

The champions list(Spar Star Champions Crowned at The Hollywood Park Casino): Bellator MMA veteran Albert Morales, Farren Romero, Oneida Diaz, Paola Ramirez, Andre Nickerson, Bellator MMA veteran Marcos Bonilla, Matthew Spencer, Leo Imai, Jose Lopez, Jose Diaz, Daniel Rodriguez, Joseph Williams, Keith Carson, and Benji Gomez.

Check out our gallery of Spar Star Events Past!

All photos and images are the property of The Clinch Report, LLC all rights reserved. Any unauthorized use is strictly prohibited. Please contact us at news@theclinchreport.com forΒ licensing information.

 

‘The Fight Professor’ Stephen Quadros Talks Pride Glory Days, UFC and Conor McGregor

Posted: April 26, 2016 in Combat Sports, UFC
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Stephen Quadros is known as ‘The Fight Professor’ for a reason. He has been involved with every single aspect of the martial arts. As lifelong practitioner, theΒ former judge in the UFC’s early days and Pride commentator has been cage-side for some of the most memorable moments in the sport.

Last week he called in to the The Brutally Honest Show, to talk about everything that is going on in the world of MMA. Check out what he had to say about the sports evolution, and the status of one of the sports biggest stars!

 

Karen Darabedyan Makes A Huge Statement with Win Over Joe Condon

Posted: April 25, 2016 in Combat Sports, UFC
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CXF Gold Rush Karen v Condon-9

By: Jonathan M King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

When Karen Darabedyan entered the Sportsmens Lodge Ballroom, he appeared completely relaxed. A rather disconcerting smile from ear to ear showed, as he approached the cage to engage in hand to hand combat. Inside the cage a very seasoned Joe Condon was waiting for him. Pacing back and forth, a stoic Condon appeared extremely ready for a fight. Yet, Darabedyan seemed perfectly relaxed, almost reveling in the crowd support. Was he over confident? Or, perhapsΒ he just knew something the rest of us were about to find out.

The fight itself started out rather slowly. Something you can expect when two savvy veterans face off. Darabedyan started with some nasty leg kicks that wobbled Condon but never stopped his advance. Each time he entered range, Darabedyan would attack the legs before looking to land with the hands. The leg kicks kept coming, and after faking low Darabedyan buried a kick to the body of Condon that for a second doubled him over.

That second was all Karen Darabedyan needed. As CondonΒ absorbed the shot, Darabedyan jumped on his neck. Darabedyan than flattened out his opponent with a sprawl while maintaining the hold, before pulling guard and cinching in the guillotine. Condon defend at first, but he was unable to clear his head. The more he tried the tighter the hold became, and he was forced to tap just overΒ a minute into the round.

Like most of the fighters who compete under the Lights Out Promotions and Bash Boxing banner, Karen Darabedyan is a top prospect in his division. With the doubt and injuries no longer in the picture it appears that Karen Darabedyan is back in full force. It is only a matter of time before Darabedyan’s management team have him fighting in a big show. If not, he may have a hard time finding opponents on the regional level. After all, would you fight a lion for anything less than six figures? I certainly would not!

The win was important on many different levels. First of all Joe Condon is the best opponent Darabedyan has fought in 4 years. The fact that he was able to dominate a former World Series of Fighting Lightweight Contender adds some sweetness to an already ripe and seasoned fighter. Secondly the win earned Darabedyan the CXF Jr Welterweight Tile (160 lbs), which will only add to his confidence making him that much more dangerous. Lastly and most importantly, the win came before Darabedyan’s home town Armenian crowd. With the 101 year anniversary of the Armenian Genocide of 1915 as the backdrop, the win served as inspiration to an entire nationΒ who collectively have endured so much. The struggle continues, and will continue until justice has been served!

All of usΒ at The Clinch Report stand together with our Armenian brothers and sisters. #WeAreOne

All photos are the property of The Clinch Report, LLC. Any unauthorized use is prohibited. Please email news@theclinchreport.com for licensing information.

 

Alfred Kashakyan Returns to Form at CXF ‘Gold Rush’ and Earns His First Title

Posted: April 24, 2016 in Combat Sports, UFC
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The Beginning of the End

The Beginning of the End

By: Jonathan M. King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

According to Hemingway people with ‘guts’ always show “grace under pressure.” Coming in to his fight against Andrew Natividad, Alfred Kashakyan personified that saying. ReturningΒ off of a loss in his last fight and fighting with the anniversary of the Armenian Genocide as the back drop, Kashakyan was shouldering a ton of weight. He was not only fighting for the CXF Bantamweight title, but he was also fighting for a nation people who still to this day, continue to fight for themselves. Despite the pressure Kashakyan performed with grace, and showcased his power along the way.

Once Kashakyan made his way into the ball room it became clear who the crowd was there to see. Once he made his way into the cage it became clear whoΒ he was see! Charging to a haltΒ an inch from his opponent Kashakyan stomped defiantly in front of him before circling away to take his corner. The aggressive display was not a taunt as much as it was a precursor forΒ the chaotic stormΒ on the horizon.

As the fight beganΒ Natividad looked to stay low, and after a few strikes from Kashakyan he shot in an attemptΒ to take the fight to the mat. However Kashakyan was able to fend off the takedown, and once out of danger, he separated and looked to get busy with his hands. Each punch he threw was meant to end the fight. Although Natividad was able to block a few, in retreat a head kick backed him up against the cage and once there Kashakyan unleashed a flurry of strikes that dropped himΒ a couple of times. The stoppage came moments later as grounded strikes went unanswered forcing the referee to stop the bout.

After the win an emotional Alfred Kashakyan spoke to the crowd about how personal the fight was for him. He spoke of his struggle, and of the Armenian struggle and vowed to continue his reign as CXF Champion declaring “This belt is mine, and its not going anywhere”.

The win moves Kashakyan to 6-2 as a pro and also earns him his first mixed martial arts title. As with most of the CXFΒ fighters, Alfred is on a short list of UFC hopefuls in the bantamweight division. It would not be a surprise to see both Kashakyan and fellow 135 lbs prospect Terrion Ware in the UFC in the near future, if notΒ perhaps we will see them square off in the CXF cage. Only time will tell!

Wherever Kashakyan fights next is only a guess, however as he starts to get bigger and bigger fights you can expect a seasoned fighter, one used to the pressure. A fighter who Hemingway himself would say has ‘guts’ in spades, a fighter with ‘Grace’!

The next CXF show is scheduled for June make sure you follow Lights Out Promotions and Bash Boxing for more information.

All photos are the property of The Clinch Report, LLC. AnyΒ unauthorized use isΒ prohibited. Please email news@theclinchreport.com forΒ licensing information.

Ware vs Gooch: A Fight A Year in The Making Delivers Big!

Posted: April 23, 2016 in Combat Sports, UFC
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CXF Gold Rush Ware gooch-14

 

By: Jonathan King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

Hype can be a fickle word in the fight business. Often it ends up being hyperbole, rarely delivering on a quarter of the expectation. Going into last nights event California Xtreme Fighting’s ‘Gold Rush’ event the hype behind the Terrion Ware vs Rob Gooch fight had built for so long, it was literally overflowing. Rarely do these bouts every live up to expectations. In this case, the fight exceeded the lofty expectations and ended up being one of the most entertaining bouts of the year.

To understand the genesis of this fight, you have to cast back to almost a year ago. Under another promotion this fight was booked as a main event. All of the media jumped on the bandwagon of a fight that could produce a future UFC star. However a staph infection hospitalized Gooch leaving the fight in limbo. Months went by Gooch healed; Ware kept training and again the fight was booked. Cursed, once again the fight ended up on the scrap heap. The promotion was forced to cancel the event due to injuries, and again both fighters were left all dressed up with no place to go. However this time the cancellation coincided with the ‘Gold Rush’ event, and after reaching an agreement the bout was again signed. The featured scrap would also produce the number one contender for the CXF Bantamweight Title.

So finally after a year of waiting, both fighters were healthy on weight, and the bout was set. Once the cage door closed the the excuses and the hype quickly faded. The anticipation became a violent reality that lived up to the billing. For three rounds Rob Gooch and Terrion Ware danced. For 15 minutes they engaged in a bloody tango that had the crowd on their feet the entire time.

The back and forth first round was closely contested, with Ware scoring more effectively in the stand up department, however a takedown from Gooch was able to give him dominate position for a good chunk of time. Once back up, Ware began landing with counter right hands, that inspired a mouse under the eye of his surging opponent.

In the second round, Ware continued to loosen up with his hands catching Gooch several times that buckled his knees. However Gooch refused to break, instead he coiled like a rattlesnake before springing back to life with punches that testified to his resolve. The first of these surges, rocked Ware with an uppercut. However the offensive production just wasn’t on a par for Gooch. As the fight progressed, Ware continued to pile up points, landing two or three times at a time with combinations that were answered back with singular shots. Towards the middle of the final round, Gooch’s eye began to swell shut as Ware tactfully pieced him apart with counter right hands. Ware hit him with everything but the kitchen sink, yet Gooch remained standing.

Ware cruised to a one sided decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-26) however the score does not exact the contest any justice. The fight itself was one of the most entertaining bouts of the year. In victory the Terrion Ware remains on the cusp of the big show. He continues to evolve as a fighter and this win certainly puts him on a short list of UFC hopefuls in the 135 lbs division. Rob Gooch ends up with a loss on the score sheets, but his stock continues to rise. The heart, fire and desire this guy displayed is certain to carry him past the loss. Simply put people with that kind of fortitude never stay down long.

All photos are the property of The Clinch Report, LLC. Any unauthorized use is prohibited. Please email news@theclinchreport.com for licensing information.

California Xtreme Fighting: Gold Rush Set To Crown Inaugural Champions

Posted: April 13, 2016 in Combat Sports, UFC
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By: Jonathan M. King The Clinch Report

In 1848 after gold was discovered at Sutter’s Mill; California became the place for the bold to stake their claim to a bright future. Now nearly 170 years later, California Xtreme Fighting is the new Sutter’s Mill, and our young mixed martial artists are the miners seeking their fortune. The times may have changed, but the bounty is still the same.Β Everyone wants some of that sweet sweet gold, and on April 22nd, plenty will be on the line.

Lights Out Promotions in association with Bash Boxing are proud toΒ be presenting ‘CXF: Gold Rush’ on April 22, 2016 at The Sportsmen’s Lodge in Studio City. The talent laden card features some of the top young mixed martial artists in the world. Each one of them looking to strike gold.

Preliminary Card:

Georgie Garcia (2-2 MMA) vs Angel Oliveras (Pro Debut)

Georgie Garcia has fought under the Lights Out/Bash umbrella before, and those who have seen him fight are always entertained. His muay thai pedigree and strong athleticism make him a nightmare inside a large cage. His opponent Angel Oliveras is making his pro debut after an amateur pedigree that saw him even with a 1-1 record. Oliveras is a well rounded fighter with some slick submission skills. Both young men are hungry so sit back and watch them eat.

Marlen MaGee (2-4 MMA) vs Craig Plaskett (Pro Debut)

Marlen MaGee returns to action under the Lights Out/Bash umbrella for the fourth time. The heavy handed MaGee is looking for his first win after coming short in his previous engagements. His opponent Craig Plaskett is making his pro debut after a rather extensive amateur career that saw him even with 4 wins against 4 losses. Plaskett also possesses power in both hands, so this could up being a ‘rock em sock em robots’ type of fight. Don’t blink.

Joshua Jones (1-0 MMA) vs Akkim Lee (Pro Debut)

Joshua Jones came into his last bout the underdog, and left after silencing the crowd with a huge win in his pocket. Jones displayed a wide array of striking and dominated with a versatile attack that wore down his opponent before choking the will to compete from him. His opponent Akkim Lee has been around for a long time. Lee has an extensive amateur background and has a ton of fight left. Expect an educated slug fest!

Jordan Isordia (2-3 MMA) vs Derion Chapman (2-4-1)

Both of these young scrappers bring a ton of talent and energy to the cage. Isordia is the type of striker that likes to stay in the pocket, he certainly is not afraid to take a punch in order to land one. Chapman is more of a floater, who likes to inflict damage quickly before exiting his opponents range. On their feet, the fight could go either way. However should the fight hit the mat, Chapman is very dangerous off his back. This bout couldΒ be a back and forth war that produces a magical finish.

Armen Bakanyan (1-3-1 MMA) vs Dmitry GerasimovΒ (4-4MMA)

This is an easy candidate for Fight of the Night, simply because it already has been! If this rematch is any where close to as good as the first fight, everyone is in for an action-packed treat. The first fight ended in a close split decision that favored Gerasimov. Now 3 years later, these two are set to square off again. This time Bakanyan wants revenge, and his opponent Gerasimov wants to remove all doubt. Get ready for a nasty grudge match with all the violent trimmings. A last minute replacement on the card, may end up being the best fight of the night!

Main Card:

Moses Murrietta (2-0 MMA) vs Matthew Spencer (4-1 MMA) For the CXF Middleweight Championship

In his last bout Moses Murrietta was two parts lightning and one part thunder. Showcasing his superior boxing skills, he systematically picked apart a very tough John Gendron cruising to an rather oddly scoredΒ split decision victory. Murrietta sets up his power well with ranging strikes. He will need to use that range to contain his opponent who is somewhat of a bulldog. Matthew Spencer is built like an NFL fullback, and is just as athletic. In the clinch his power transforms opponents into victims quickly and on the mat things only get worse. A brown belt under Eddie Bravo, Spencer can quickly make the fight a foggy memory if your not careful. With a belt on the line, you can expect one hell of a high octane battle.

Jay Bogan (5-5 MMA) vs Cody Bollinger (16-5 MMA)Β For the CXF Featherweight Championship

Cody Bollinger is a veteran who has fought in pretty much every organization from the UFC on down. His stifling wrestling pedigree has picked up some pretty nasty striking along the way. Currently mired in a 3 fight losing streak Bollinger is looking to rebound with a win that would put him right back in the mix in the featherweight landscape. What his opponent Jay Bogan may lack in experience he certainly makes up for with ridiculous submission skills. With four of his five wins coming via submission Bogan is quick to attack in the transition. Equally dangerous on top position or on his back, Bogan can end the fight in an instant. This fight could end up being a battle of transitions, with the winner being crowned the CXF Featherweight Champion.

Alfred Kashakyan (5-2 MMA) vs Andrew Natividad (3-4 MMA)Β For the CXF Bantamweight Championship

Andrew Natividad is a very experienced and well rounded fighter. He possesses the one quality you cannot teach a fighter. He is a grinder. HoweverΒ in his last 2 fights, heΒ came up on the wrong end of a decision to Ruben Duran and Juan Archuletta. His opponent Alfred Kashakyan has devastating knockout power in both hands, and brings a huge arsenal of weapons to the cage. Kashakyan is also coming off a disappointing loss, so his appetite is larger than ever. With the winner being crowned the CXF Bantamweight Champion you can bet this is going to be a great fight. Early candidate for Fight of the Night.

Terrion Ware (11-5 MMA) vs Rob Gooch (4-2 MMA)

Once the combat gods get there eyes on a matchup, they must be satisfied. This fight has been a long time coming. Finally after clearing up some red tape, and after all the injuries are healed, these two are going to throw down. Rob Gooch may be at a experience disadvantage record wise, but his skill is unquestionable. Equally dangerous on the mat or standing, Gooch is an extremely efficient fighter, a tactician with a keen mind. If your not on the ball at all times, GoochΒ can grab an arm or a leg, and end the fight in an instant. His opponent Terrion Ware has seemingly been one fight away from the UFC for a while now. Possibly one of the best bantamweights outside of the UFC, Ware is looking to make a statement, one signed with leather. A highlight reel win over a fighter like Rob Gooch may be the final piece in the puzzle. This fight could easily end up being the Fight of The Night.

Karen Darabedyan (11-5 MMA) vs Joe Condon (11-9 MMA)Β For The CXF 160lbs ChampionshipΒ 

This fight could easily be a money fight on a televised card. Both of these fighters have competed at the top level in mixed martial arts, both are still in their prime and both share a ridiculous grappling pedigree. Joe Condon has fought for titles in King of the Cage (twice), and competed in the 155 lbs tournament for World Series of Fighting. His experience speaks for itself. On his feet Condon has decent hands, but his defensive skills are amazing which often leads to openings for take downs. On the mat his finishing instincts shine. His methodical transitions to the back are relentless, and singular in purpose. Simply put if you give up your back, its pretty much over. His opponent Karen Darabedyan, like Condon is talented beyond words. Darabedyan a student of Gokor Chivichyan and Gene Lebell has some of the best leg locks in the game. If he grabs a leg, your going to be limping for along time. On his feet Darabedyan utilizes his compact frame to explode into his punches like a coiled snake. If he turns your chin, the room will get dim real quick. Once he has his opponents wounded, DarabedyanΒ does not show mercy, well he sort of does, he doesn’t waste any time, and usually the finish comes quickly! Both of these fighters are climbing their way back to the top of the pecking order, so you can expect a war!Β This fight will not only product the CXF champion, the winner will also be arguably the best lightweight fighter in the state!

This event is in memory of the Armenian Genocide of 1915 and a portion of the proceeds will donated to charity. Never Forget!

 

CXF: California Xtreme Fighting Arises Anew In Front of A Packed House!

Posted: March 7, 2016 in Combat Sports, UFC
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CXF Karen-10

By: Jonathan M King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

From 2006-2009 California Xtreme Fighting was a steadfast beacon in a sea of shady promotions. Originally under the guidance of Mixed Martial Arts lifer Mike Rush, the promotion flourished for 3 years utilizingΒ some of the best young fighters in the area. Jared Hamman, Brett Cooper, FranciscoΒ Rivera, Tony Fergusson, Daniel Hernandez, Ara Muradyan, Jared Papazian, Sevak Magakian and many more all found themselves cutting there teeth under the CXF banner.Β Many of whom have gone on the UFC and Bellator.

Now 7 years after their last bout ended CXF has returned. The first card back from their hibernation featured the return of grappling wizard Karen Darabedyan who had not fought since 2014. His opponent Pablo Sabori was riding a 4 fight win streak, and was anything but a tune up fight. From the opening bell Sabori came out aggressive, perhaps hoping to capitalize on some ring rust.Β However, Darabedyan showed little if any oxidation. After a few exchanges, Darabedyan charged forward with punches and was able to clinch Sabori before taking him to the mat. Once there, it was only a matter of time before the python like choke followed. Β Sabori was forced to tap due to a rear naked choke, halfway through the first round.

The tough opponent, and impressive win served as a measuring stick for Darabedyan who said in his post fight interview that he was now certain he was ready for a return to the UFC.

Also victorious on the card were: Matthew Spencer who secured a first round impressive armbar win over striker Idris Wasi, Joshua Jones defeated hometown favorite Tigran Grigoryan, Moses Murrieta took a split decision over John Gendron, Derion Chapman utilized a slick triangle to finish veteran Bobby Sanchez in the first round, Keith Cutrone TKO’d Edgar Khachatryan in the first round of their very entertaining bout, Andrii Vasylenko took out a very game Brad Robinson with a slick armbar, Chase Gibson finished AJ Bryant with a signature D’arce choke, Kyler Phillips defeated Taylor Alfaro in a one sided contest. Perhaps the most entertaining bout of the evening took place between Erick Gonzalez and Shohei Yamamoto. Gonzalez was able to swarm for a 3rd round TKO in a back and forth war that had the sold out crowd on their feet.

The next CXF event has already been announced, and is planned for April 23rd. After the last sold out standing room only event, this one will certainly be another night of exciting fights you will not want to miss. Get your tickets early. Stay updated with LightsOutPromotions and Bash Boxing by clicking the links.

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California Xtreme Fighting: CXF The Return Weigh In Results and Image Gallery

Posted: March 3, 2016 in Combat Sports, UFC
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Main Event: Sabori vs Darabedyan

Main Event: Sabori vs Darabedyan

By: Jonathan M. King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

California Xtreme Fighting: The Return

The Sportsmen Lodge, Studio City California

Weigh Ins

Bobby Sanchez (148 lbs) vs Derion Chapman (145 lbs) Featherweight

Matthew Spencer (184 lbs) vs Idris Wasi (195 lbs) Middleweight

Edgar Khachatrian (173 lbs) vs Keith Cutrone (170.5 lbs) Welterweight

Erick Gonzalez (156 lbs) vs Shohei Yamamoto (153 lbs) Lightweight

Taylor Alfaro (136 lbs) vs Kyler Phillips (136 lbs) Bantamweight

Tigran Grigoryan (168 lbs) vs Joshua Jones (170 lbs) Welterweight

Brad Robinson (205 lbs) vs Andrii Vasylenko (204.5 lbs) Light Heavyweight

Chase Gibson (145 lbs) vs AJ Bryant (142 lbs) Featherweight

Moses Murrietta (183.5 lbs) vs John Gendron (184 lbs) Middleweight

Main Event: Karen Darabedyan (163 lbs) vs Pablo Sabori (160 lbs) 160 lbs Catchweight

 

 

 

The Return of The King: The Resurrection of California Xtreme Fighting Preview

Posted: March 3, 2016 in Combat Sports, UFC
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By Jonathan M. King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

Photos By: Bob Fisher Pugilpix.com

On March 4th, Lights Out Promotions, in association with Bash Boxing, will present a reincarnation of sorts. California Xtreme Fighting has dusted off their banner of war, and once again it will be flying over the warriors inside of a cage. We are proud to present CXF: The Return, which will be held March 4th at The Sportsmen’s Lodge in Studio City.

Many of Southern California’s top fighters have cut their teeth under the CXF Banner including: Joe Schilling, Jared Hamman, Tony Ferguson, Joe Condon, Jared Papazian, Francisco Rivera, Aaron Miller and many others. Since CXF’s last event many have tried to fill the void, but none have been able.

“The Return” of CXF has one purpose. The combat gods have short memories, so we will jog their recollection by putting together one of the best fight cards of the year. CXF:”The Return” will feature some of southern California’s top mixed martial arts talent, all of them looking to move one step closer to the promise land. The main card will feature a mix of seasoned professionals, and talented young ‘up and comers’ that will end up being future champions in this sport. This is an event that cannot be missed, so get your tickets early. This event is certain to sell out.
Go To: www.valleyfightnight.com Β to purchase tickets.

The Main Event:
Pablo Sabori (6-2 MMA) vs Karen Darabedyan: (10-5 MMA) 155 lbs
Both fighters have well decorated pedigrees, and they both come from outstanding teams. Sabori a native Brazilian will be bringing his well rounded striking game into the cage, looking to turn lights out early. Darabedyan a grappler by trade, is also not one to shy away from a fire fight. He too has explosive hands with excellent footwork, so a toe-to-toe war is a possibility. However, he has been inactive in MMA for a little over a year. Will the ring rust be an issue? Sabori is currently riding a 4 fight win streak, and a hot horse is always tough to bet against. This fight could go either way, making all who witness the only sure fire guaranteed winners! Both of these guys are highly skilled, so this fight may produce any one, or maybe all of the performance bonuses! Buckle your seat belt and enjoy the ride.

The Main Card:
Shohei Yamamoto (2-0 MMA) vs Erick Gonzalez (4-1 MMA) 155 lbs
This is a very intriguing fight. Both of these fighters had absolutely stellar amateur careers, which resulted in success early on as professionals. Erick ‘The Ghost Pepper’ Gonzalez a spicy striker with power in both hands, has deadly Muay Thai strikes. He is extremely precise with his striking, and on the mat he has some explosive jiujitsu. Shohei Yamamoto is a well rounded fighter with knockout power in both hands. He also maintains a CSW pedigree which could make him a nightmare if he secures top position. Both of these guys are on the rise, what a treat to see them compete this early in there careers. Experts always claim styles make fights, and this one is not different. This fight may end up being the Fight of The Night.

Mosses Murrieta (1-0 MMA) vs John Gendron (1-0 MMA) 185 lbs
What a matchup! Both of these guys seem to enjoy throwing their hands, and when they do, they tend to make a mess. Murrieta destroyed his last opponent via KO early in the first round, while Gendron recently slugged out a decision in his pro debut. Both of these guys can end the fight with one punch. Very often when you have that kind of power facing off, you end up getting a back and forth war. This fight could produce either Knockout of The Night, or Fight of The Night, or dare we dream both?

Matthew Spencer (3-1 MMA) vs Idris Wasi (1-3 MMA) 185 lbs
Both of these fighters are hungry. Losses can be motivating that way, they are tough to stomach. Idris Wasi is cardio machine, who went the distance in his last fight, his debut under the Bellator banner. However he ended up on the wrong side of a judges decision. Now looking to punch his ticket back to the big leagues, Wasi must first ply his craft at CXF: The Return. His opponent Matthew Spencer is also coming off a disappointing loss, and is flat out chomping at the bit to get back in the cage. In Wasi, Spencer sees dinner, one he must first hunt himself. Spencer a jiujitsu purple belt with heavy hands has fought here before, and is banking on the hometown support. Both fighters are excellent athletes so this one might end up a going the distance in a back and forth war.

Bobby Sanchez (8-27 MMA) vs Derrion ‘DC’ Chapman (1-4-1 MMA) 145 lbs
Sanchez comes in off a win, and brings over 10 years experience as a professional fighter. In his career he has fought UFC veteran Cody McKenzie, Bellator MMA and WEC vet Chad George, Bellator MMA veteran Mark Vorgeas, and WEC legend Manny Tapia. He will need to rely on that experience as he is set to take on the always entertaining Derrion Chapman. Chapman returns to our cage for the 4th time and is looking to put an end to a 2 fight skid. Both of these guys are pretty quick, so don’t blink.

Taylor Alfaro (0-0 MMA) vs Kyler Phillips (0-0 MMA) 145 lbs
Both of these fellas are making their professional debuts after stellar records as amateurs. Neither has tasted defeat before, going a combined 10-0 as amateurs. With 8 of those fights ending decisively, by either submission or knockout this is a fight you will not want to miss. Two young guns looking to make a name at the others expense. This fight could go either way, and may end up producing a future champion.

Chase Gibson (MMA) vs A.J. Bryant (MMA) 145 lbs
Chase Gibson burst on to the professional scene as an undefeated amateur with a whole bunch of eyes on him. Three fights into his career he finds himself in the midst of his first losing streak. Losing 2 of his first 3 bouts via decision, Gibson is certainly looking to getting back to his forte, which is knocking people out. In his way talented youngster A.J. Bryant who is making his professional debut. Bryant, a heavy handed scrapper, is eager to start his pro career the way his amateur one ended with a victory.

Brad Robinson (1-1 MMA) vs Andryii Vasylenko (3-0 MMA) 220lbs
Training out of Hayastan MMA, Andryii Vasylenko enters the professional ranks with one hell of a pedigree behind him. The concrete fisted grappler can end any fight in an instant, either with his vicious hands, or on the mat with his stifling grappling. At 6’5 Bradley Robinson will be the first opponent Vasylenko won’t be able to dominant with sheer size. If Robinson can utilize his reach he should be able to keep the fight at a range where only he can score. This fight is going to end being a battle of will, look for both fighters to assert themselves early in this battle.

Keith Cutrone (0-0 MMA) vs Edgar Khachatryan (0-0 MMA) 170 lbs
Both of these fighters are making their professional debuts. Cutrone, a submission expert has won all three of his amateur bouts via the tap, is looking to parlay that success into a debut win as a professional. His opponent Edgar Khachatryan also making his debut fights out of the famed Hayastan Academy, where he trains under grappling gods Gokor Chivichyan and Gene Lebell. With those guys leading your camp, you can expect a well prepared fighter ready to go to war. Keep in mind these guys are middleweights, so pay attention. Both of these guys throw bricks!

Tigran Grigoryan (0-0 MMA) vs Joshua Jones (0-1 MMA) 170 lbs
Both Grigoryan and Jones had extensive amateur careers. Jones is getting back into the cage for the first time since 2014 and is looking to bounce back from a loss in his pro debut. Grigoryan 4-1 as an amateur, is entering the pro ranks riding a 4 fight win streak, with 2 of those wins coming via submission. Grigoryan may maintain a slight edge on the mat, however Jones has much more time in the cage, and that experience could prove to be the difference maker. Also, both of these guys have the gas to go the distance, so keep a score card on this one, it could end up being that close.

In an Amateur Showcase, Jonathan Quiroz from CMMA will be taking on Leon Shahbazian from Glendale Fighting Club at 170 lbs.Β In case you missed any of our events check out the image gallery below.

 

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