Posts Tagged ‘Bash Boxing’

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  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. In case you missed any of our events check out the image gallery below.

 

The Spaniard Returns to Conquer At Fight Night 4

Posted: October 26, 2015 in Combat Sports, UFC
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By: Jonathan M. King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

When Juan Archuleta(7-1 MMA) sprinted to the cage Friday night for Lights Out Promotions and Bash Boxing’s Fight Night 4 card, he was definitely doing so in front of a hostile crowd. His opponent Alfred Khashakyan (5-2 MMA) had been riding a hot streak, was fighting in front of his hometown fans, and had already proclaimed this fight to be the launching pad to his burgeoning UFC career. However the Spaniard had other less complicated plans, he simply had a nameless, faceless soul to steal.

As most thought he would, Khashakyan came out with both guns blazing looking for a fire fight and with one of his first shots he cracked Archuleta with a nasty uppercut inspiring a leak right away.  One that only made the blood thirsty crowd that much more frenzied. However Archuleta weathered the early barrage, and was able to drag the fight to the mat where it remained for pretty much the rest of the round. Once the fight went horizontal the Purdue wrestling standout went to work soaking up the space and grinding the wind from his opponent.

They say every move has a counter move. If that is the case, Archuleta and his coach must have had them all scouted. Each time Khashakyan engaged (when they were standing) he was taken down. Each time Khashakyan wall-walked to his feet he would get dropped again. After each take down, came some more smothering. At times it seemed like Archuleta would allow Khashakyan to his feet only to take him down again. As if to open the door slightly, giving a glimpse of freedom before slamming it shut. A rather deflating tactic.

To Khashakyan’s credit it didn’t work, he never did quit. He kept fighting until the final bell. He just didn’t have the sauce on the ground to handle a guy with Archuleta’s wiggle. The pressure never relented, and the game plan was executed flawlessly. For three rounds Khashakyan had no answer for Archuleta as he continued to sponge him up like a spill on the floor. It was like watching a Bounty Paper Towel commercial. For three rounds, Archuleta was ‘The Quicker Picker Upper!’

 

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Winning clearly on all three judges score cards, ‘The Spaniard’ slowly broke not only the hometown favorite but the crowd as well. Archuleta, who works on the show “Kingdom” was joined in the cage by his co-stars for the post fight celebration. But that celebration was short lived.

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Immediately Archuleta and his coach began to think to the future, even lobbying promoter George Bastmajyan for another fight right away.

Khashakyan will have to return to the drawing board. He is still a very talented fighter with a bright future this has not changed. If anything his path should be clearly defined now. He simply needs to improve his wrestling.  Friday night just wasn’t his night, perhaps next time it will be. The good news for Khashakyan is he is the type of athlete that can adapt well and certainly will, providing he embraces the flaw and puts in enough time to correct the issue.

For Archuleta at this point the sky is the limit. After this performance he is certain to receive a few phone calls from eager promoters. However his pedigree and durability make him somewhat of a juggernaut at 135 lbs so don’t expect many fighters to call him out. after all who wants to piss off a demon?  Its just not a very smart move. However if something does not present itself soon, maybe we will see him back in the Fight Night cage for the December show. If not be on the lookout for you might end being the Spaniard’s next conquest!

 

 

 

Archuleta vs Khashakyan: Marquee Match of The Week

Posted: October 23, 2015 in Combat Sports, UFC
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By: Jonathan M King

Marquee Match Of The Week:

Kashakyan vs Archuleta

“For Present joys are more to flesh and blood than a dull prospect of distant good!” John Dryden

Finally fight day is upon us and although the main event features a two former big leaguers, it is the up and comers that are in support that have captured the eye of many. Both Alfred Khashakyan and Juan Archuleta have been well known names on the fight circuit for quite some time. Especially within their specific disciplines they have even become known as “specialists”. Archuleta has become one of the most feared grapplers in the division, while Khashakyan earns equal respect with regards to his stand up skills. So it seemed inevitable that these two would eventually find themselves locked in a cage together, but to have it happen in Studio City is truly a gift.

To call a fighter a prospect, is a dangerous thing. While the wins can inflate ego, the losses can crush your confidence.  I guess thats a term we as the media feel necessary to use. It makes us warm and fuzzy on the inside. But it takes a coach to recognize a true prospect from a fraudulent one, and it a takes a great coach to save a prospect from himself! Lucky for both of these fighters they have two coaches that genuinely care for them and their well being beyond just the cage.

Ranking the Prospect

“Its hard to say about ranking, I just think they are two really tough fighters with good records” Edmond Tarverdyan said. “Alfred is a monster he is a very powerful fighter, but he needs to keep stepping up in competition and that is what this fight is the next step.” Khashakyan survived a few tough rounds in his last fight to score a late come from behind knockout, a fight that exposed a few holes in his game.

Since then Alfred has been working relentlessly on his wrestling with 3 x Olympian Martin Berberyan, and on his jiujitsu with wizard Alberto Crane. Adding those arrows to the quiver can only solidify the arsenal Tarverdyan has already created. Put them all together and you should have a pretty well rounded frankenstein of a fighter who hits harder than guys 15 lbs heavier than him.

Meanwhile Somewhere in the desert….

Juan Archuleta is the type of guy that really doesn’t need to fight. He could pretty much do anything. And do it well. In fact, he is currently acting on the hit television show Kingdom on Direct TV. However like most people that is just his job, and his passion is something different. His passion is punching people in the face. Juan is a fighter.

Training under Joe Stevenson, Archuleta is what I would call a demon fighter. His goal is not to hurt you right away, (although he can if you get careless) his goal is to steal your soul over the course of 3 rounds. He does this by grinding you down methodically, not allowing you to breathe, taking you down relentlessly, and essentially dry-drowning you like an anaconda does. Its heartless to watch. You add in his granite like chin, and it makes the other guy want to take his ball and go home!

The best part about this fight is we get to see this happen on the regional scene. We rarely get to see two prospects this good fight each other on a stage this small. Because fighters feel they are risking too much, But what good are two distant prospects that never see each others eyes? A true test, is a test. Not a quiz you already have the answers for!

Tickets may still be available. go to www.valleyfightnight.com

 

 

 

 

MMA Returns To The Sportsmen’s Lodge in Studio City: Fight Night 4

Posted: October 16, 2015 in Combat Sports, UFC
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IMG_8356By: Jonathan King

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

Photos By: Bob Fisher Pugilpix.com

Once again the unholy union that is Lights Out Promotions and Bash Boxing, will take over the Sportsmen’s Lodge in Studio City California for one of the most competitive fight cards they have ever put together. They leave you salivating for more fights and often, but you understand the time between cards when you see the match ups that take place. It truly is a proving grounds of MMA. For young fighter this is the place to find out if you have what it takes, for those veterans who find themselves in the midst of a transition, this is the perfect cage to keep balance to a name on the brink.

The records are according http://www.mixedmartialarts.com

Eddie Mendez (7-3-1 MMA) vs Curtis Millender (8-2 MMA)

At a catchweight of 175lbs Former UFC grappler Eddie Mendez is set to take on former Bellator MMA striking specialist Curtis Millender in what should be a classic matchup that puts style versus style, with a little extra flavor. Both fighters really need this win to earn a spot on a big card for their next fight. A win here, certainly will carry some momentum, while a loss would be a major setback! With all that is on the line, the fight could be an candidate for Fight of The Night. Who wins the lance or the ram?

Alfred Kashakyan (5-1 MMA) vs Juan Archuleta (3-1 MMA)

What a treat this fight is going to be! It is rare when you get to see two fighters at this early stage of their perspective careers face off on the regional scene. Both of these two fighters are shoe-ins for the UFC, so buckle up! Two superstars in the making. In one corner Ronda Rousey’s training partner, in the other corner one of the stars of the hist TV show ‘Kingdom’. This is going to be a fight you will not forget! The explosive hands of Kashakyan, the stifling wrestling game of Archuleta, who wins you ask? You do! Early candidate for Fight of the Night!

Dmitry Gerasimov (3-4 MMA) vs Julian Shore (3-1 MMA)

This fight features two very exciting 145lbs warriors that have been no secret to the Southern Californian fight scene. Shore who fights out of CMMA is a beast of an athlete who returns to the SoCal scene after winning fights under both the Legacy FC and Titan FC banner! He is welcomed by Fight Night veteran ‘Dima’ Gerasimov. If you have never seen a ‘Dima’ fight, he’s sort of a whirling dervish that stops occasioning to punch you in the face (Just ask Chinzo Machida). He always moves forward, and to his credit can take a ton of damage. Another fight that could end up earning fight of the night honors.

Kim Thinghaugen (2-1 MMA) vs Derion DC Chapman (1-3-1 MMA)

In one corner you have a well rounded fighter from across the pond, who has never been tested inside our battle dome! In the other you have a well travelled warrior who has fallen on hard luck but stood firm in the face of battle. Its sort of cliche and over written, but that is what you have. Thinghaugen is a talented grappler from across the pond, with power and promise. Chapman is quick handed savvy veteran who despite only 5 fights as a pro, had quite an extensive record as an amateur. Even though his record doesn’t show it he improves every time out. If the new guy leaves his chin out, you can bet ‘DC’ will be looking to check it back to LAX.

James Acosta (0-4 MMA) vs Levon Sargsyan (2-3 MMA)

Some of you will remember the last time these two fellas squared off. If you don’t, let me remind you. It was one hell of a donny brook. Some thought Acosta clearly won, some thought Levon was able to piece out a decision, eventually the judges agreed. Now they get to do it again, all for our entertainment!  Acosta is a durable tank, while Sargsyan is more of a darting viper. He needs to find his mark often and early. Acosta is built for the long haul so he could very easily drag this fight into deep water, gator roll it, and save it for later. Another candidate for Fight of The Night.

Brandon Michels (2-8 MMA) vs Mike Quintero (Pro Debut)

You have to love when the big boys throw. Usually you can time there punches with a calendar and measure their falls with the richter scale. Not in this case. Mike Quintero making his pro debut is a beast of man. He throws with hate on every punch, not like he hates you, but like he hates you and your mamma! But here is the issue. Dude has technique. So its scary. Not like your drunk Uncle Joey. Brandon Michels has strong Muay Thai, and has been around a long time. Quintero is not going to show him anything new. That doesn’t mean won’t be able to land! Should be a fun fight to watch.

Thor Skancke (7-5 MMA) vs Nick Vanderpool (4-0 MMA)

This fight has the ear marks of either making or breaking your hearts. Nick Vanderpool brings a strong wrestling background, and an unblemished record.His heavy hands, bad intentions are looking to knock any opponent out on Oct 23rd. For Vanderpool the veteran of more than few Gladiator Challenge events this marks a big step up in competition, however the objective remains the same. Skancke however has been here before and this is his den; Perhaps Vanderpool just walked in front wearing a big old juicy t-bone. Hopefully this dog can hunt, cause I know that wolf can! Either Stand back, let the hounds bay cause we are gonna have a fight on our hands!

The evening will also feature some of the top young amateur talent taking part on the preliminary card as well.

Check out our Gallery from Fight Night’s Past!

Lights Out Promotions and Bash Boxing Once Again Leave Everyone Thoroughly Entertained!

Posted: July 13, 2015 in Combat Sports, UFC
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Never a doubt? Paredes Hugs the ref!

Never a doubt? Paredes Hugs the ref!

By: Jonathan King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report and Bob Fisher Pugilpix.com

‘Fight Night 3’ took place last Friday at The Sportsmens Lodge in Studio City California, and once again the event delivered. Fighters from throughout the region showed up in their best form, most dreaming of something bigger and better, while others once again simply enjoyed being in the mix.

The first fight of the evening also featured what many consider the Knockout of the Night. Veteran Johnny “Merc” Mercurio needed only :7 to dispatch journeyman Gabe Lopez with a nasty left hand that removed all of Lopez’s equilibrium, folding him instantly into a purely defensive posture, forcing the referee to step in and save him from further damage. The ferocious KO, definitely set the table for the fights that followed.

Next up local fan favorite Derion “DC” Chapman patiently waited for his spots, and found them in the third round when he finished his opponent Izic Fernandez with a nasty knee followed by a left hand that ended fight. Fernandez had success early in the contest, but seemed to fade just as Chapman began to pour it on.This was a Huge win for Chapman who now finds himself in the midst of a 2 fight win streak.

The third fight of the evening saw Chris Rodriguez survive an early assault from Levon Sargsyan, before he was able to ground Sargysan with a stifling wrestling game that eventually produced the rare ‘far arm’ choke finish at 2:25 of the very first round. Sargsyan look amazing on his feet but could not prevent the take downs, and eventually that is what cost him the win. Excellent showing for Rodriguez who withstood an early barrage enabling him to cinch up the win.

Talented 170 lbs prospect Anthony Hernandez needed only 2:28 seconds to destroy veteran Daniel McWilliams with I.Q changing elbows that brought the crowd to their feet. Hernandez quickly established himself has the more powerful striker, and appeared to be in control of the fight from the opening bell. The sheer violence of the finish will certainly put more than a few 170 lbs fighters in the area on notice!

The fifth scrap of the evening was also one of the most entertaining. Max Ceniceros was able to out last Dima Gerasimov in a back and forth donnybrook that saw both fighters land and absorb well beyond their thresholds should have allowed. The result; for three rounds the entire auditorium stood and watched with mouths agape, as these two warriors stood toe to toe in a fight reminiscent of Bonnar v Griffin I. Both men were battered, bloodied and bludgeoned, but in the end Ceniceros was able to pull out the unanimous decision on all cards. Great fight by two very courageous fighters who both refused to quit.

Bellator veteran Marcos Bonilla returned to the Lights Out Promotions and Bash Boxing cage, and also returned to his winning ways. Bonilla was able to swarm his opponent Adel Al Tamimi in the second round of their fight, TKO’ing him with some vicious ground and pound. The win is huge for Bonilla who returns to regional action after losing his Bellator debut to talented prospect A.J. McKee. With the win Bonilla may be just a few fights away from returning to the big leagues of MMA.

Undefeated prospect Matthew ‘The MOG’ Spencer remained untainted as a professional with a hard fought first round armbar victory over a very tough Jonathan Ferrell. Ferrell early on appeared to be in full control, staggering Spencer several times with pinpoint jabs, and cranium shattering elbows that appeared to momentarily stun Spencer. However Spencer quickly regained his composure, was able to return to his ground game base. Once he had the arm and went belly down, Ferrell really only had one legitimate option and he chose wisely. The tap forced the end to a very interesting fight that only lasted a total of 1:49, however this is a fight that gets no justice from the occasional viewer who briefly scans the results on Sherdog.

Next up, Muay Thai specialist Daniel Clark started off  his fight against savvy veteran Marlon Magee in classic fashion. Clark looked to set up his kicks with precise jab that kept Magee guessing, however it was the Alberto Crane jiujitsu pedigree that ended the fight. Clark was able to wrap up a rear-naked choke at 1:52 of the first round, ending another quick but very entertaining bout. The win moves Clark to 5-1 as a pro, and should be enough to get the attention of the larger promotions. If i was him, I would keep my phone real close.

The co main event of the evening was also by far the best fight of the night. For two rounds, the heavily favorite Alfred Khashakyan found himself down significantly to the relatively unknown Anthony Paredes out of Team Quest. Parades was able to take down Khashakyan at will, and with very little resistance. The tactic worked as Khashkyan for 2 rounds had no answer for the wrestlers attack. On his back for most of the fight, Khashkyan found himself down 10-9, 10-8 on most score cards, and appeared to be close to throwing in the towel. Instead exhausted, and bloodied he answered the bell in the third round and thank god he did! What came next was one of the most improbable comebacks in recent MMA history.

Late in the third round it appeared Paredes was gassing out, and that moment of weakness was all Khashkyan needed. Paredes ate a body shot that immediately paid divides for Khashkyan as he retreated to the cage in attempt to survive. Quickly Khashakyan closed the distance and unleashed a multiple punch combination that had Paredes covering up without offering any defense. A few more punches from Khashkyan found there target, and ended the night as referee Mike Bell had to stand in saving Paredes from further damage. The win a KO for Khashkyan may be the biggest of his career, but it will also serve as a wake up call. In this sport if you have a weakness, eventually it will be exposed.

The main event of the evening saw Los Angeles’s most popular regional fighter Thor Skancke defeat friend and former training partner Jason Cordero at 3:44 of the very first round. Skancke landed some nice leg kicks early that had his opponent thinking low, setting up his hands. Late in the round the fight found its way to the mat, where Skancke was able to establish position and quickly end the fight with some inspiring ground and pound. The win moves Skancke north of .500 as a pro, bring his record to 7-6, while Cordero drops to 5-7.

As always the violence was delivered, and everyone in attendance seemed to have a blast. If you have never been to a Lights Out Promotions/Bash Boxing event than you may want to reconsider. These guys put on affordable fights that thoroughly entertain, and consistently deliver highlight reel KO’s strategic submissions, and sometimes if your lucky,  you get a fight that just redefines your conception of the sport.

 

NOTE: GALLERY WILL BE EXPANDING THROUGHOUT THE WEEK AS MORE PHOTOS COME IN!

Win or Lose, The Hammer of Thor Always Entertains!

Posted: July 7, 2015 in Combat Sports, UFC
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Fight Night LO 3.15-22

By: Jonathan M. King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

The 4th of July holiday may be in the rear view mirror, but Thor Skancke (6-6 MMA) saved his fireworks for July 10th. On that night Skancke will be taking on a very tough Jason Cordero (5-6 MMA) in the main event of ‘Fight Night 3’, and as always he promises to bring his own breed of fireworks.

“I am looking to put the pace on him early”, Skancke said. “He is not going to get past round 2. If he (Cordero) trained real hard his reward will be losing in the 2nd round, If he took me lightly he won’t last past the first!” Skancke said. At first the prediction may seem full of bravado but for Skancke its how he handles the reality of fighting.

Even though he sees his hand being raised, Skancke refuses to take anyone lightly. “I am physically and emotionally unable to take anyone lightly, anybody has a chance to beat me, so I train the same way every time.” Skancke said. “I come to knock you out quickly, I want to punch your teeth down your throat” Skancke said.

So although it may be an athletic contest Skancke makes no bones about his attitude when it comes to fighting!  “I don’t play games, I take every fight as a threat.”

Maybe that is why so many people come to watch him fight. Consistently one of the top draws on the local MMA scene for some reason Skancke translates to fight fans. Its not only his name that sets him apart, he truly is a showmen. From his entrance to his appearance, and his comical way Skancke is a guy you want to like. His fighting style reinforces that belief. Although he is awkward with the notion of popularity, he is not oblivious to his drawing power.

“People can tell when someone is the genuine article.” Skancke said. “I am a pretty exciting fighter to watch.  Many guys leave it ‘all out there’, but I handle business with a ferocity, and a reckless abandonment that most fighters lack, I have a kamikaze way about doing work, and I think thats why i put asses in seats.”

Skancke, a notorious brawler has spent the last year or so fine tuning his ground game. Recently under the tutelage of UFC/WEC veteran Gabe Ruediger, Skancke has made huge strides to increase not only his technique, but his confidence as well.

“My ground game has always been decent, I even won a few grappling contests, but for some reason in MMA it just wasn’t working. It took a new coach (Ruediger) to tie it all together, and to instill the confidence I needed in order to execute on the ground.” Skancke said. With his last win coming via submission it is difficult to argue with the results.

July 10th will be the test. In the end, the fight game may be cruel but its quite simple. Each fight produces a hammer and nail. For Skancke, the ends justify the means. The work will speak for itself, until then we can only anticipate. Until then we can only be satisfied with the fireworks we have seen, yet we can revel that their are still some more to come!

Thor Skancke Fights out of Tarzana Boxing Club/Systems Encino/10th Planet HQ

He is Sponsored By: Bottle and Pint, “The Hell and The Hunger” by  Mike Reynolds (In stores now), Pain Away, and Nutri Shop of Woodland Hills, and Ten Braves Apparel. 

He would like to thank his coaches Bernie Hopalian, Gabe Ruediger, Chris Buckner, and his manager George Bastmajyan. He would also like to thank all the fans that always come out in droves to support him. 

Daniel Clark Returns To The Fight Night Cage July 10th

Posted: July 6, 2015 in Combat Sports, UFC
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By: Jonathan M. King The Clinch Report

Videoed And Edited By: Arin Ian Lights Out Promotions

Daniel Clark (3-2 MMA) Is one of Southern California’s most exciting young fighters, and he makes his return to the Lights Out Promotions and Bash Boxing Cage on July 10th at The Sportsmen’s Lodge in Studio City. Clark, a muay thai specialist returns to action after almost 8 months on the shelf due to nagging injuries.

Now fully healed, and with his edge as sharp as ever, Clark will be looking to make an example of the very well rounded Marlen Magee. Magee, currently in the midst of a 3 fight win streak, will be out to prove that he is nobodies stepping stone. The fight on paper could be an early candidate for Fight of The Night, so make sure you are in your seats early for this one!

For Tickets go to: http://www.valleyfightnight.com

 

‘Fight Night 3’ Great Mix of Seasoned Veterans and Savvy Prospects Decorate a Stacked Card

Posted: July 1, 2015 in Combat Sports, UFC
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By: Jonathan M King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John J Walsh The Clinch Report and Bob Fisher Pugilpix.com

The wait is almost over, the time is drawing near. ‘Fight Night 3’ returns to the Sportsmen’s Lodge courtesy of Lights Out Promotions and Bash Boxing. Following in the footsteps of previous ‘Fight Night’ installments, tickets are almost already sold out, and July 10, is still over a week away. For Tickets go to www.ValleyFightNight.com

The near sellout crowd is set to witness an absolutely stacked card, from ‘rooter to the tooter’, the card features a unique blend of battle tested veterans looking to punch their tickets back to the show, and hungry young predators looking to make a name for themselves as The City of Angels bears witness.

The main event features local legend, and avid face puncher Thor Skancke (6-6 MMA) who will take on the grappler Jason Cordero (5-6 MMA). The classic matchup of grappler vs. striker will be on display once again in this bout. Will it be a battle of transitions? Or will the lights go out in Studio City? A fight that cannot be missed!

The Co Main event features Alfred Khashakyan (4-1 MMA) vs Anthony Paredes (3-1 MMA). Khashakyan is arguably one of the top prospects in the area. His punches leave opponents unconscious, sipping their meals through straws. However this time, he may have finally found a rival with equal pedigree. Paredes comes in with a very well rounded striking game, backed up by a stifling wrestling game. If he can get Khashakyan to the mat, he may be able to maintain a solid advantage. This is another fight that could end being a marathon, or a sprint. Either way is another battle of top prospects you will eventually see fighting in the UFC.

The card also features the return of UFC and Strikeforce veteran Eddie Mendez (7-3). Mendez is looking to return to form, coming off of two very tough loses, one being his UFC debut the other being a title fight to now UFC fighter Kevin Casey under the RFA umbrella. He will be a facing a fighter very much in the same situation. Johnny Mercurio (5-6 MMA) is coming off of two tough losses himself, one of those being his Bellator MMA debut. These two veterans will be meeting head to head full speed, at a catchweight of 175 lbs. This one should be zero to sixty, in an instant. Put your seatbelt on!

Also on the Card:

Marcos Bonilla vs. Adel Al Tamimi (1-1 MMA) Both fighters are exciting strikers with very different styles. Bonilla has deadly accurate hands, that make a mess when he throws them around. Add in his footwork, and snapping leg kicks and he is a nightmare for anyone. Al Tamimi may be the perfect match. If he can keep his distance, and move in and out of Bonilla’s range, his karate style and hammering kicks can accumulate damage quickly, and his pace is always very measured. This fight could produce the *Knockout of The Night Candidate.

Ron Scolesdang (4-2 MMA) vs Paul Amaro (3-5 MMA) Both fighters are veterans of the ‘Fight Night’ series and always come ready to perform. What happens when a typhoon meets a tornado? This fight should give you the answer. Scolesdang is looking to build off his last ‘Fight Night’ performance, while Amaro is looking to end a five fight skid. With both fighters only knowing one speed, this fight should get the blood going.

Daniel Clark (3-2 MMA)vs Marlen Magee (3-2 MMA) This fight features two very well rounded tacticians, who have both been on the verge of the next level for quite some time. Clark may be the more well rounded fighter, but Magee is riding a 3 fight win streak, and will need to utilize his wrestling to neutralize the jiujitsu of his foe. Clark has all the tools for this game, however its been 8 months since his last fight. Ring rust is something Magee will certainly being looking to expose. This fight could produce the evenings slickest submission! *Submission of The Night Candidate

Dmitry Gerasimov (4-3 MMA) vs Max Ceniceros (6-2 MMA) Another early candidate for Fight of the Night. Ceniceros is currently riding a five fight win streak and standing in the way of his sixth, a one very tough Russian. Gerasimov’s karate pedigree and aggressive style coupled with Ceniceros explosiveness will make this fight one of the best on the card. *Fight of the Night Candidate.

Joe Bryant vs Joe Hernandez Whenever the heavyweights get locked in the cage you cannot afford to blink. This fight should come with that as a warning label. Both Bryant and Hernandez are both young, strong and extremely hungry. This fight could go either way, but it doubtfully will see a judges scorecard. Remember Don’t Blink. *Knockout of The Night Candidate

Levon Sargsyan (2-2 MMA) vs Chris Rodriguez (1-2 MMA) Intriguing bout that pits two talented prospects, cut from similar molds, in a fight that should deliver machine-gun action from the opening bell. Make sure you get to your seats early this is a fight that is certain to entertain.

Vardan Sholinian (5-1 MMA)  vs Anthony Hernandez (4-0 MMA) Hernandez undefeated atop a four fight KO pony, is risking his undefeated record against perhaps his toughest opponent yet. Sholinian one of the top young prospects emerging from Team GFC possesses heavy hands, a strong ground game and a granite chin. How is this not a main event? This one is worth the price of admission alone! *Knockout of The Night Candidate

Matthew Spencer (2-0 MMA)  vs Jonathan Ferrell (0-1 MMA) Ferrell making his ‘Fight Night’ debut will be looking to showcase his striking skills early. Spencer will be looking to utilize his strength and grappling skills to bring Ferrell into deep water, where he can drown him. Whoever wins, it should be a fun scrap to watch.

Izic Fernandez (1-0 MMA) vs Derion Chapman (1-2-1 MMA) How often does the curtain jerker actually have a chance to be Fight of The Night? This one does. Both fighters recently became professionals after extensive amateur backgrounds. This fight could end up being too close to call! *Fight of The Night Candidate

 

 

‘Fight Night 2’ Leaves Fans Asking When is ‘Fight Night 3’?

Posted: April 19, 2015 in Combat Sports, UFC
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By: Jonathan King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

Photos By: Bob Fisher Pugilpix.com

Walking out of the Sportsmen’s Lodge in Studio City among the crowd, the same sentiment reverberated multiple times on the way to the car. “Hey man, when are you guys going to do another one?”

Once again the Lights Out Promotions and Bash Boxing team has succeeded in putting together one hell of an entertaining night of fights. ‘Fight Night 2’ featured some of the regions top mixed martial artists, in a wide range of weight classes. The main event featured a mixed of young talent, and hard hitting veterans that left the crowd satisfied and asking for more.

Six fighters on the card in particular had heavier burdens than normal. With the up coming anniversary of the Armenian Genocide at the hands of the Ottoman Empire as the back drop, 6 Armenian fighters took to the cage to fight for not only themselves but for a nation as well. Alfred Khashakyan, Levon Sarsyan, Armen Bakanyan, Tigran Grigoryan, Davit Yeghiazaryan, and Leon Shahbazyan each represented their Armenian roots with hard fought efforts that led to a 5-0-1 record on the evening.

In the co main event of the evening Alfred Khashakyan plowed through Blackhouse MMA fighter Vitor Oristanio (1-3 MMA) with a first round KO that left the young Oristanio unconscious. After trading kicks early on, Khashakyan caught a charging Oristanio on the chin with an uppercut that folded his legs beneath him. Wasting little time, Khashakyan dove in with some vicious right hands that with the mat underneath gave Oristanio’s head no place to go! The last punch removing him completely from his senses. The knockout, his fourth in a row, puts Khashakyan in a prime position to get a call from the UFC. Normally fighting at 135 lbs, Khashakyan’s power and wrestling back-round immediately make him a contender in the bantamweight division.

The second co main event saw local fan favorite Thor Skancke (6-5 MMA) defeat journeyman Daniel McWillams (9-24 MMA) in the first round via submission (Americana). Skancke showcased his heavy hands early in the first round, landing with heavy hooks to the body of McWilliams before the fight found itself on the ground. McWilliams flirted several times with an arm bar/ triangle transition, but eventually Skancke threw his legs to the side and  landed in side control. Once there a few ground strikes softened McWilliams enough to allow Skancke to get a hold of a wrist lock. Which he rotated into the Americana, finishing the fight.

The win for Skancke returned him to the right side of .500. He also didn’t receive any damage, making him eligible for the next card at ‘Fight Night 3’!

Over all the event was extremely entertaining. The fights were a good blend of Knockouts and submissions, with a few leading up to the suspense of a judges decision. We saw a Liz Tracy make a huge splash in her pro debut, with a big upset over Maria Rios. We also will probably being saying goodbye to Alfred Khashakyan who now stands 4-1 in the midst of  a 4 fight KO streak. He should be getting a call from Sean Shelby and Joe Silva at the UFC very soon,

Lights Out Promotions and Bash Boxing put together some pretty amazing events. The dynamic blend of young talent, coupled with well known regional talent makes them a highly desired promotion for fighters. There are no stepping stones at a ‘Fight Night’ event. Like Thor Skancke said following his fight, “If you are not in the UFC, this is where the best competition is!” and like Annie Lennox said, “Who am I to disagree!”

 

 

 

 

Erick Gonzalez Wins Again Without Seeing The Second Round!

Posted: April 19, 2015 in Combat Sports, UFC
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By: Jonathan King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

Photos By: Bob Fisher Pugilpix.com

After a very solid amateur career Erick Gonzalez (2-0 MMA) leapt into the professional ranks with a :26 second KO over Derrion Chapman. In that fight Gonzalez connected with a vicious elbow ending the fight in less than :30. His second fight went a little bit longer but ended in the same fashion.

Gonzalez took on a very tough Christian Bizarretty (1-3 MMA) and quickly took control of the fight landing the more effective strikes. Bizarretty was on defense pretty much from the onset of the fight, and was never able to get settled. Gonzalez utilized a stifling top game to keep Bizarretty flattened out, once the fight found its way to the floor.

Once Gonzalez had both hooks in with his opponent flat as a pancake, the ground and pound from the back mount reigned down. It was only a matter of time before veteran referee Mike Beltran had seen enough. With the win, Gonzalez continues to develop into a legitimate prospect. However the competition Gonzalez faces will continue to improve, therefore he will have to train harder and smarter than ever before if he wants to maintain that momentum!

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