Posts Tagged ‘@BellatorMMA’

Battle Tested, Only A Few Survive “The Proving Grounds”

Posted: June 28, 2016 in Combat Sports, UFC
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CXF Clark Vs Chavez-23

By: Jonathan King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

Merriam-Webster defines the term ‘Proving Ground’ as “a place where things or people are tested or tried out for the first time.” The sport of Mixed martial arts in many ways needs a proving grounds. A place for pedigreed fighters to face other well rounded scrappers in matches that are crafted to test each participant. A place where each win is earned, a place where the wheat is separated from the chaff. This is the CXF: Proving Grounds

The first bout of the triple-headed main event featured 3x Bellator MMA veteran Curtis Millender and 7x Glory Kickboxing veteran Casey Greene in a 5 round fight for the vacant CXF Welterweight Title. The intriguing matchup of strikers did not disappoint.

Early on in the fight Millender began to lead the dance working well behind his jab. Starching the charging Greene with every advance before circling away without damage. In the second round, the blood began to flow as Millender’s trip hammer jab instigated a leak above the eye and the nose of Greene. However Greene kept charging, and seemed to get stronger as the fight wore on. Even after a Millender spinning heel kick sent him across the cage.

Battered, bloodied and down on the cards Greene came out in the fourth round a much different fighter. Perhaps sensing he needed a knockout, he stalked Millender who continued to score but more in retreat as he countered his aggressive opponent. In the fifth round the Saeksons Muay Thai product came out even more aggressive, winning the round on many scorecards however Millender’s early investments were at that point already safely in the bank, and he cruised to a unanimous decision win.

Curtis Millender defeats Casey Greene for the CXF Welterweight Title via Unanimous Decision 

The second title fight of the evening featured Emilio Chavez and Dominic Clark in a lightweight showdown to crown the 155 lbs king of So Cal. However the excellent matchup quickly became a one sided affair.

After a short feeling out process, Clark was able to duck under a Chavez advance scoring with the takedown.  Once horizontal, Clark scooted Chavez to the cage and patiently looked for his opening. Chavez did an excellent job defending, however a untimely transition attempted exposed his back and Clark transitioned in a flash, taking his back and sinking both hooks. After softening Chavez up with a few shots, Clark was able to thread his arm under the neck and secured the tap at 4:35 seconds of the very first round.

Not only did Dominick Clark end up with the CXF Lightweight Title, but during his post fight speech he dropped to a knee and proposed to his longtime girlfriend, and she said yes! Congratulations to the Clarks!

Dominick Clark defeats Emilio Chavez for the CXF Lightweight Title via Submission (RNC) 4:25 Rd: 1

The final title fight of the evening saw Alfred Kashakyan defend his CXF Bantamweight strap against a very tough Anthony Perales normally a flyweight, Perales took the bantamweight title fight on short notice and in the champions backyard. The fight started out rather slow, with both opponents clearly respecting each others skills. But it wouldn’t take long for the crowd to be on there feet.

Perales tried to score with a takedown, however Kashakyan kept his footing and immediately went in pursuit of of his opponents chin. After a few brief exchange, Perales aggressively charged the champion missing with a combination who staggered the challenger with a left hook, right uppercut chaser that turned the lights out, leaving Perales unconsciously supine against the cage. The devastating knockout win should have Kashakyan on a short list of bantamweight prospects heading to the UFC.

Alfred Kashakyan defeats Anthony Perales Defending his CXF Bantamweight Title via KO (punches) :45 Rd: 1

The undercard:

Michael Quintero defeats Andril Vasylenko 3:28 Rd: 2 via Submission (Rear Naked Choke)

Leon Shahbazian defeats Eric Johnson 3:48 Rd: 1 via Submission (modified Guillotine)

James Acosta defeats David Duran 4:17 Rd: 2 via Knockout (punches)

Georgie Garcia defeats Gary Michaelyan 2:14 Rd: 1 via Submission (Rear Naked Choke)

Rob Gooch defeats Paul Amaro 1:17 Rd: 1 via Submission (Rear Naked Choke)

The Sun Keeps Rising On “The Peoples Champion” Tito Ortiz

Posted: September 17, 2015 in Combat Sports, UFC
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Bellator 131-33

By: Jonathan M. King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

Weight can be a finicky burden. Sometimes you don’t realize how heavy something is until you let it go. For the better part of 15 years Tito Ortiz carried a good portion of the load. Weather his former employers are willing to admit that or not, weather his detractors are willing to admit that or not, it is undeniable he was one if not the, torch bearer for a long time.

However that weight started to take its toll. Years of fighting injured, and ‘answering the call’ to duty had left the former Champion adrift in the rankings, injured and without any real love from the house he helped build. So he left. And it appeared the sun was setting on a former UFC Champion and UFC Hall of Famer. However, Tito Ortiz just didn’t feel ready to call it a career yet. And once again, the sun began to peek above the horizon.

So, he signed with Bellator MMA and after an initial fight with Rampage Jackson fizzled out due to an Ortiz neck injury, it seemed Tito would ride out the rest of his days in quasi relevancy appearing from time-to-time. However then they announced his first fight.

Ortiz debuted against former 185 lbs champion Alexander Shlemenko (51-9 MMA) and quickly dispatched him with a head and arm choke. Although the much larger man, Ortiz looked the part putting the smaller striker to sleep before digging his grave in the center of the cage, in classic Ortiz fashion.

Then he went on to systematically beat the tar out of an aging Stephan Bonnar (15-9 MMA). Again although Ortiz’s opponent didn’t look up too snuff, Ortiz certainly did. His wrestling looked as explosive as ever, and his gas tank never emptied. That win, although not against a top contender, led him to this title shot against current champion Liam McGeary (10-0 MMA). In McGeary, Ortiz not only faces the Champion but his toughest test since switching companies.

The champion McGeary on paper presents a ton of challenges, mainly his freakish reach. Ortiz not know for his boxing will somehow have to find a way inside in order to impose his will. If he ends up going backwards, or flailing for a takedown it could be long night, (or a short one) for Ortiz. However if Ortiz can bring the fight into his own neighborhood he certainly has the power and ability to end the fight himself. the one outcome that is assured is greatness! Greatness is bound to happen, either McGeary becomes bonafide, or Ortiz shocks the world, how can you not watch?

Win or loose Ortiz has already said his fighting career will continue, and from the way he has looked in the cage and in training who can argue? His performance against McGeary may steer some opinions one way or the other, but one thing seems certain, the sun may have set on the Huntington Beach Bad Boy, but its only rising for the ‘Peoples Champion’.

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Tito Ortiz took a second to talk with Aaron Tru from The Brutally Honest Radio Show about his upcoming fight, his journey for another world title, and about cementing his name in history. Plus his lovely girlfriend Amber Nicole also has a few things to say about how the ‘People’s Champion’ prepares. Check out the video below:

Brutally Honest Radio is hosted by Aaron Tru, Adrian Gallegos, and Jonathan King. The podcast is broadcast live each week from an undisclosed studio in Long Beach California. You can subscribe and download each episode on iTunes. Or you can listen on sound cloud.

Millender vs. Page: Bellator MMA’s Next Great Rivalry

Posted: December 4, 2014 in Combat Sports, UFC
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By: Jonathan King The Clinch Report

Since Scott Coker has taken over Bellator MMA has survived a lame-duck transitional period of uncertainty only to emerge in a more tenable situation than ever before. The new regime has not only updated the drab promotional image by polishing the broadcast with elaborate entrances, but they have also updated an antiquated roster as well. Coker and has team have signed a diverse group of veteran fighters with name recognition to go along with some of the sports top prospects. The move ensures the future, while staying current with relevant big name fighters headlining televised events.

Two of those prospects are Michael Page (7-0 MMA 3-0 Bellator MMA) and Curtis Millender (7-0 MMA Bellator MMA Debut) who are set to square off in January as part of the promotions series of fights titled ‘The British Invasion’. Page has been highly touted as one of the best young fighters in the welterweight division, while Millender has remained under the radar for the most part. A trend the man they call ‘Courteous Curtis’ plans to reverse with an explosive debut.

In Page, Millender finds his toughest opponent too date. Essentially he will be fighting his mirror image. Both fighters are exactly the same size, at 6’3 they tower over the rest of the division, and both are known for their electric striking. However if the fight were to find its way to the ground, Millender would be comfortable as well. “Let’s just say I am more than comfortable on the ground, and if it does end up there, he is in trouble!”, Millender said.

The fight will be Millender’s first bout outside of the confines of ‘The OC Fight Club Hangar’, a place he has called home for all of his 7 professional fights. A trend that is a direct result of his ability. Once promoter Roy Englebrecht and manager Mel Valenzuela saw ‘Curtious’ in action they knew they had discovered a gem. They locked him up to a contract and then they realized Millender’s main problem. No one wanted to fight him!

Much like Pat Cummins who also trains at Reign MMA, Millender presents a nightmare for most fighters to match up against. His reach and striking prowess make him almost impossible to hit, and even harder to avoid! With opponents heading for the hills, Englebrecht and Valenzuela had to fly in opponents with well known pedigrees to test Millender. The only problem was, he walked through them too!

So now here we are set to witness two of the sports best young welterweights fight each other in the Bellator MMA cage. Even though Millender predicts a victory, he realizes he may see Page again, as this may be an emerging rivalry. “I wouldn’t be surprised if I have to beat him again!”, Millender said. However he doesn’t see a need for a third! “We are both young and I could see myself having to beat him again, but I don’t think a third time will be necessary!”

The problem facing a prospect is that at some point he has to shed that moniker in order to take on that of a contender. For Millender this journey started long ago. The countless hours of preparation are starting to pay off. However the hard work is just beginning. Although Bellator MMA currently only has 23 current welterweights on the roster, the depth of talent makes it one of the toughest divisions in the promotion. With current champion Douglas Lima scheduled to fight British slugger Paul ‘Semtex’ Daley, the winner of this bout could find himself on a short list of contenders for the 170 lbs title.

Curtis Millender (7-0 MMA) is signed to Bellator MMA and  is represented by Mel Valenzuela. Millender would like to thank his family, and friends, and coaches for supporting his career, but especially wants to thank anyone who “ever gave [him] a ride to the gym”. He would also like to personally recognize Roy Englebrecht and his manager Mel for supporting his efforts.

Curtis Millender is currently sponsored by: Everlast,  Via Diamond Termite, Nu Image Marketing, Kolor Splash of Anaheim, and JP 23 BBQ , and Grand Casino Bakery of Culver City.

Millender trains out of UFC Gym Fullerton and Reign Training Center

Melvin Manhoef’s Message to Bellator MMA Fans: “Don’t Blink”

Posted: September 17, 2014 in Combat Sports, UFC
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Bellator-125-Fight-PosterBy: Jonathan M. King The Clinch Report

Kickboxing legend and Mixed Martial Arts veteran Melvin Manhoef (28-11 MMA) is set to make his Bellator MMA debut against Doug ‘The Rhino’ Marshall at Bellator 125. Both men can end the fight with one shot, and both would prefer to stand and strike. A fight that has most MMA fans frothing at the mouth. Not because there is anything at stake, but simply because this is  a powder keg of a fight.

The well travelled Manhoef finds his way to Bellator MMA after successful stints in well known promotions such as Dream, Cage Rage, K-1, and most recently One FC. Now fighting in the United States, Manhoef hopes to make a big impression. “I want to show America who Melvin Manhoef is and I think Bellator is the perfect organization to let the fans enjoy my skills.” Manhoef said.

Manhoef transitioned from kickboxing to MMA years ago, and continues to fight in both disciplines today.  Although he has other kickboxing engagements already booked, make no mistake this is not a ‘one and done’ scenario for Manhoef. He has one goal in mind, and that is securing the Bellator MMA World Title. “I want to be Champion. This is my goal!” Manhoef said.

His first step towards achieving that goal is an extremely dangerous one. Doug Marshall may not be as technical as Manhoef in the striking department, but make no mistake he is just as dangerous. Marshall generates tremendous power in his punches, and can just as easily end this fight with one punch. Just ask Brett Cooper, who is known for having a granite chin. Marshall is that strong, and coming off of his suspension for PED’s he will be looking to make a statement.

With both fighters eager to stake their claims in a wide open division, its best to take Manhoef’s advice. “Don’t Blink!”

Prediction: Manhoef via TKO Rd 2 in one of the most entertaining fights of the year!

Editorial: The Deal That Begs the Question. Why Not Askren?

Posted: August 20, 2014 in Combat Sports, UFC
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Battle tested, champion approved!

Battle tested, champion approved!

By: Jonathan M. King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

A new day in Bellator MMA has dawned, and the cracking sun shines on a new undisputed champion. The second Eddie Alvarez was released, Will Brooks became the promotions 155 lbs torch bearer. His first title defense is pretty obvious. Michael Chandler will most likely get the first shot at the newly minted undisputed champion. After losing a controversial decision to Brooks, it appeared that a unification bout with Alvarez put Chandler in limbo. It didn’t seem right for him to have to go through another tournament though. Thankfully now he won’t have to!

The Alvarez release makes sense for Bellator MMA. It allows the company to build with fighters that intend on being there for a while. Once the promotions and Alvarez engaged legally, the relationship was fractured. After signing an offer sheet with the UFC, Bellator under Bjorn Rebney exercised their matching rights, and claimed they matched the offer, and a nasty battle outside the cage ensued.

The parting also makes sense for Alvarez who has for years been at the top of the divisional rankings, without having to step foot in the octagon. Alvarez now has the opportunity test himself against the best 155 lbs fighters in the world. His first fight will be against Donald Cerrone at UFC 178. It will be Alvarez’s first fight since defeating Chandler nearly 10 months ago.

Now that Alvarez has moved on and with Scott Coker at the helm, the promotion can finally cut its own path, again! With Coker’s pedigree in MMA and with his new team of matchmakers it seems their only hurdle is the companies past transgressions. However with a group of solid young fighters that includes Chandler, Brooks, 205 lbs contender Liam McGeary, 170 lbs title holder Douglas Lima, 145 lbs champion Pat Curran, Daniel Straus and many others a bright future maybe only be a few roster tweaks away.

With Coker looking to book more big name fights, the Bellator PPV dream may once again become a viable option.

Odd Man Out: Ben Askren ‘Bad timing’

When Ben Askren was released CEO Bjorn Rebney based the decision on Askren’s “one dimensional’ style. Even though he was undefeated and the 170 lbs champion, he was cast aside. Happily Askren accepted the release, expecting his entrance into the UFC. However, Dana White had no intention in legitimizing the Bellator promotion by allowing Askren to continue his domination. So,he was told to sign elsewhere.

Now with One FC, Askren remains undefeated and is slowly becoming the poster child for the dominant Asian promotion.

Now that the regime has changed. It appears tensions have as well. Yes, Alvarez is more exciting to watch, but if the UFC claims to have the best fighters in the world, then you have to include the undefeated Askren. Especially when you consider the UFC even signed Jay Hieron following his loss to Askren.

Maybe Askren wanted too much money, or guarantees the UFC couldn’t grant. However with Alvarez being swallowed up right away, its begs the question. Why Alvarez and not Askren?

‘The Super Nova from Moldova’ Video Interview with Marina Shafir

Posted: August 4, 2014 in Combat Sports, UFC
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By: Jonathan M. King The Clinch Report

Video and Edited By: Bob Fisher Pugilpix.com

After her last sparring session, leading up to her August 10th fight with Amanda Bell, Marina Shafir took time out of her day to talk with us about her training, and her opponent. Shafir also addressed ‘The Armbar Nation’ directly, with an assist to ‘The Queen of Spades’ Shayna Baszler. Check out what the future of MMA had to say as she looks forward to her second fight as a professional

Marina will be fighting on August 10th, at Chaos At The Casino presented by Lights Out Promotions.

For tickets Call: 323-243-7777 or 818-484-5555

Marina trains a The Glendale Fighting Club. We would like to thank everyone at the gym for putting up with us for a few hours.

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Bellator 122: Cashing Checks That Carry a Shot at The Strap!

Posted: July 26, 2014 in Combat Sports
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Article By: Jonathan M. King The Clinch Report

Video By: Bob Fisher www.pugilpix.com

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

 

Brandon Halsey (7-0 MMA) won the Bellator MMA 185 lbs tournament in impressive fashion. Halsey was able to bring a very tough Brett Cooper (20-10 MMA) to the mat early in the opening round. Once established in side control, Halsey quickly trapped the arm and began working for the submission. Cooper defended at first, but once Halsey rolled belly-down the arm came free and the tap followed.

The win earns the 27 year old Halsey a hefty 100,000 dollar check, and more importantly a shot at Alexander Shlemenko and his 185 lbs crown. Shlemenko is coming off an out of division loss to Tito Ortiz, and Halsey will certainly look to utilize the same game plan. “Tito already showed where the holes in his game are, I’m going to pretty much do the same thing!” Halsey said.

Andrey Koreshkov (17-1 MMA) also earned a 6 figure check tied to a title shot when he systematically dismantled Adam McDonough (11-1 MMA) for three rounds and cruised to a unanimous decision win. Koreshkov was able to thwart almost all of McDonough’s grappling attempts and maintained the distance utilizing an array of kicks and punches.

McDonough was never able to get into rhythm and ate a few big shots from Koreshkov, including a spinning heel kick that landed flush on his jaw. However he was able to survive, but lost by unanimous decision. Koreshkov earns his second tournament win, and will now face off with welterweight champion Douglas Lima at a place and time yet to be determined.

In the Light Heavyweight Tournament Semi Finals, Liam McGeary (8-0 MMA) tore through Egidijus Valavicius with vicious strikes (27-11 MMA) earning a spot in the finals against Kelly Anundson (9-2 MMA) who also advanced earlier in the evening when his opponent Philipe Lins (9-1 MMA) injured his knee in the first round of their semi final bout. Lins’s knee appeared to buckle as he attempted to throw the right hand off his jab. As he moved forward he crumbled, and referee Big John McCarthy recognized the injury right away, and stopped the contest.

Karo Parisyan (23-10 MMA) scored his second consecutive KO win when he removed perennial pro Phil Baroni (15-18 MMA) from consciousness early in the first round of their fight. Both fighters came out throwing heavy leather, but it was Parisyan was able to land first. With Baroni hurt, Parisyan swarmed and continued the assault on the ground after Baroni fell, prompting referee John McCarthy to stop the fight.

The win propels Parisyan into the welterweight rankings and with 2 consecutive wins, he will certainly be on new CEO Scott Coker’s radar. Baroni has already made plans to drop in weight to 155 lbs where he hopes to reignite his career.

Also victorious were Bubba Jenkins (7-1 MMA) who dominated Poppies Martinez (29-10 MMA) en route to a first round TKO win. Fernando Gonzalez (21-12 MMA) provided the evenings biggest upset when he cruised to a unanimous decision win over Karl Amoussou (17-7-2 MMA). Saad Awad (16-6 MMA) was able to withstand an early flurry from Joe Duarte (10-4 MMA) to secure the fight via TKO due to unanswered elbow strikes.

Brazilian heavyweight Augusto Sakai (7-0 MMA) remained unbeaten when he was able to comeback against Matt Frembling (9-3 MMA) and TKO him late in the third round with some nasty knees. Sergio Rios (8-0 MMA) removed Stephen Martinez (10-3MMA) from his senses with a head kick and follow up ground in pound. And in the evenings final swing bout Linton Vassel (14-3 MMA) defeated Virgil Swicker (12-4 MMA) via rear naked choke submission.

 

Bellator 122 Fight Card: Live Stream

Posted: July 25, 2014 in Combat Sports, UFC
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Bellator WI 122-17
Fight 1:
Stephen Martinez (11-2 MMA) vs. Sergio Rios (7-0 MMA) 155 lbs
Rd1: Rios controls the early part of the round with his grappling nearly finishing with an armbar, but Martinez was able to break free and land some blood inducing elbows that swayed the round in his favor. 10-9 Martinez
Rd2: Martinez gets caught in the first exchange of the second frame. Big head kick catches Martinez moving forward. Follow up hammer fists remove all doubt.
Winner via TKO :20 Rd 2 Sergio Rios
 
Fight 2:
Saad Awad (15-6 MMA) vs. Joe Duarte (10-3 MMA) 155 lbs
Rd1: Saad Awad eats a big right hand from Duarte and is rocked. On the mat now, Awad locks up a triangle, but Duarte stacks well to counter. Big elbows from Awad, find Duarte’s head.. More follow Duarte cannot defend, and the referee stops the fight!
Winner: Saad Awad via TKO (Unanswered Strikes)  1:28 Rd 1 
Fight 3:
Karl Amoussou (17-6-2 MMA) vs. Fernando Gonzalez (20-12 MMA) 170 Lbs
Rd1:  Amoussou looked comfortable until he got hit. Gonzalez able to surprise Amoussou with his constant pressure and excellent ground and pound. Late leg lock attempt from Amoussou thwarted easily at the bell. 10-9 Martinez
Rd2: Amoussou was able to take some momentum back early with sheer volume of strikes. But Gonzalez still landing the more damaging shots, but he took too much time between spurts of action. 10-9 Amoussou
Rd3: Great fight. third round both fighter stand and bang for the entire round, until Amoussou slipped and Gonzalez pounced into side control Unable to mount much offense before the round and the fight come to an end. 10-9 Amoussou but it could go either way!
Winner: Via UD 29-28 Fernando Gonzalez 
Fight 4:
Kelly Anundson (8-2 MMA)vs. Philipe Lins (9-0 MMA) 205 lbs
Rd1: Both fighters trade, Anundson looking for a takedown, but Lins defends well. Lins throwing the jab, goes down unmolested, clutching his knee. And that is the end of the fight. Replay shows Lins knee buckled as he moved forward.
Winner: Kelly Anundson VIA TKO (injury) 1:40 Rd1
Fight 5:
Bubba Jenkins (6-1 MMA)vs. Poppies Martinez (29-9 MMA)
Rd1: Jenkins takes down Martinez right away. Martinez able to get back to his feet but Jenkins landing with the jab and the right at will. Martnez is bleeding already. Another takedown from Jenkins has Mrtinez looking for an arm. However Jenkins stacks well, and gets free. Big shots from Jenkins as Martinez covers up. More unanswered shots end the night for Poppies Martinez.
Winner: Bubba Jenkins via TKO 4:28 Rd1
Fight 6:
Matt Frembling (9-2 MMA) vs. Augusto Sakai (6-0 MMA) 265lbs
Rd1: Frembling able to land a big shot after some stalking that plants Sakai on his backside. Ground and pound from Frembling but not much landing. Sakai back to his feet lands some nice knees, including one after the bell. 10-9 Frembling
Rd2: Neither fighter looking to engage.  Both seem content to throw singel shots. Frembling lands a big left hand with a matching right that dropped Sakai with seconds left in the round. Enough to give him the advantage. 10-9 Frembling
Rd3: Sakai appears to be the crisper of the two fighter. A low blow prompts a quick stoppage. Sakai lands a big knee on the restart and another. Head kick lands on Frembling’s jaw and he goes down. Hammer fists from Sakai greet him on the mat. One then another and referee Jason Herzog has seen enough.
Winner: Augusto Sakai via TKO 3:32 Rd3
Live on Spike TV
Fight 7:
Phil Baroni (15-17 MMA) vs. Karo Parisyan (23-10 MMA) 170 lbs
Rd1: Baroni with good movement but he can’t seem to let his hands go. Parisyan with a sneay right hand, and again it lands. Baroni with his back to the cage gets dropped to one knee from another big right from Parisyan. Parisyan turns Baroni around and lands a few lefts that force Big John to stop the fight.
Winner:  Karo Parisyan via KO 2:06 Rd 1
Fight 8:
Liam McGeary (7-0 MMA) vs. Egidijus Valavicius (27-10 MMA)
Rd1: McGeary eats a few big shots from Valavicius, but walks right through them. McGeary instigates the clinch, and lands some vicious knees and and upper cut that appears to have Valavicius leaking. The seperate and again McGeary gets off first and lands with nice left and right hands. Valavicius is in trouble he is covering up, and the referee calls a stop to the fight.
Winner: Liam McGeary via TKO 2:10 Rd 1
Fight 9:
Brandon Halsey (6-0 MMA) vs. Brett Cooper (20-9 MMA) 185 lbs Middleweight Final
Rd1: Halsey immediately gets a take down and lands in side control. Halsey with some short elbows, but he appears to have the arm bar secured. Cooper trying to keep his elbow tight, is unable to defend for long. Halsey pivots belly down, uncrosses his legs and secures the tap.
Winner: Brandon Halsey via Submission 2:09 (Armbar)  Rd 1
Fight 10: Andrey Koreshkov (16-1 MMA) defeats  Adam McDonough (11-0 MMA) via UD
Brett Cooper (20-9 MMA) vs. Brandon Halsey (6-0 MMA)
Season 10 middleweight tournament final
Andrey Koreshkov (16-1 MMA) vs. Adam McDonough (11-0 MMA)
Season 10 welterweight tournament final
Phil Baroni (15-17 MMA)vs. Karo Parisyan (23-10 MMA)
Summer Series light heavyweight tournament semifinal
PRELIMINARY CARD
Spike.com, 7 p.m. ET
Kelly Anundson (8-2 MMA)vs. Philipe Lins (9-0 MMA)
Summer Series light heavyweight tournament semifinal
Manny Lara (4-4 MMA) vs. Dmitriy Sosnovskiy (8-0 MMA)
Stephen Martinez () vs. Sergio Rios ()
Linton Vassell ()vs. Virgil Zwicker ()

 

Bellator MMA CEO Issues Statement regarding Ben Askren’s release.

Posted: November 14, 2013 in Combat Sports, UFC
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Bjorn Rebney bellator Owner and CEO

Bjorn Rebney bellator Owner and CEO

 

 

 

 

 

Bellator MMA CEO and Founder Bjorn Rebeny has announced that welterweight champion Ben Askren will not be resigning with the company. The CEO’s Twitter account posted “We’ve relinquished any right to match and Ben can sign with whoever he chooses to sign with. I wish Ben the best wherever he goes.”

For the undefeated Askren, the next step is an obvious one. Dana White and the UFC have already expressed interest in signing the now former Bellator Champion. Earlier Rebney had quipped that a guaranteed title shot at St.Pierre immediately would be the only way he would refuse matching rights, however something obviously changed his tune.

Askren a former National Champion and Olympic wrestler has been criticized for his ground based style, that for some fans consider boring. Askren has been dominant in all of his title defenses, and has not shown any cracks in his game since entering the Bellator cage.

 

Bellator MMA Chandler v Alvarez II :Results Streaming Thread

Posted: November 2, 2013 in Combat Sports, UFC
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Michael Chandler v Eddie Alvarez for the Bellator MMA 155 lbs World Title

Michael Chandler v Eddie Alvarez for the Bellator MMA 155 lbs World Title

Bellator MMA Live from The Long Beach Arena in Long Beach, CA.

First fight is at 3:00 p.m. PST(6:00 pm EST) and the prelims will be streaming online at http://www.Spiketv.com

The main card will be shown live on SpikeTV. The card will feature three world title bouts.

Preliminary Card:

Fight #1: Josh Smith (8-5) vs Darren Smith (4-3) 155 lbs    3 X 5 Rounds:

Results: First fight end 29-28 on all cards Josh Smith via UD

Fight #2 Cleber Luciano (8-5) s Joe Camacho (16-18-3)

Rd 1: Camacho defends the early shot from Luciano, but is pressed back against hthe fence. Luciano with a nice roll, ends up in side control. Nice elbows from Luciano soften up Camacho, who is trying to pull his opponent close. Camacho able to close half guard, but Luciano is still landing with short elbows and punches. Luciano achieves mount, but is bucked back to side control. Both fighters trading from the mat, Luciano digs to the body. More short elbows from Luciano. Luciano landing several punches before the bell. 10-9 Luciano

Rd 2: Good movement from Cleber, as he immediately brings the fight to the mat. Camacho closes his guard, as Luciano postures. Now back in side control, Camacho doing a much better job controlling the body this round. Elbow from Camacho staves off the stand up. Luciano able to achieve mount. Quickly he transitions to the back, but he is unable to get the choke as the round comes to a close. 10-9 Luciano

Rd 3: Luciano again able to get the take down, Nice elbows from the top by Cleber. More ground strikes to Camacho’s head. Now in north south position, Cleber still landing at will. Camacho can’t get any significant damage. More strikes from top position as the fight come to a close. 10-9 Luciano

Winner: Via Decision Unanimous Cleber Luciano 

Fight #3 Michael ‘The Joker’ Guymon (14-6-1) vs Aaron ‘Blood Spiller’ Miller (14-8)

Rd 1: Long feeling out process from the two veterans. High kick from Guymon misses. Miller doubles up on the jab, and lands the second softly. Nice one two from Guymon before he instigates the clinch. Miller being pressed into the fence, reverses and takes Guymon down. Guymon back to his feet eats a knee and then circles out and presses Miller against the cage. Low knee from Miller catches the stones of Guymon who will have 5 minutes to recover. Action restarts and Guymon lands a nice right, before eating a kick. Guymon goes for the clinch, but Miller takes him down.  Miller looking to pass, and he takes Guymons back. Miller looking for the choke, but Guymon defends well. Guymon able to stand but Miller is draped all over him. Another takedown from Miller, Guymon flirts with the triangle, and stands. Nice knee to  the head from Guymon as the round ends. 10-9 Miller

Rd 2: Guymon able to grab a hold of the clinch, but Miller reverses briefly only to be taken down by Guymon. Mller back to his feet, but still in the Jokers grasp. Nice body shots from Guymon find a home. Guymon again with the take down, now has his back. Miller fights back to his feet, and is able to grab a leg that he parlays into a take down of his own. Miller working out Guymons guard. Guymon looking for the triangle, but Miller spins out. Miller back on top working out of side control, then back to north south. Miller looks for a kimura, which he sweeps to his back. Guymon looking for an armbar, swithces to a triangle, readjust and it is deep. Miller forced to Tap.

Winner: Via Submission Triangle Choke Michael Guymon (4:20) rd 2

Fight #4

Brandon Halsey v Hector Ramirez

Rd 1: Halsey with the take-down, immediately reigning blows down from the back mount. Ramirez in trouble, and Big John McCarthy calls a stop to the action.

Winner: Via TKO Rd 1 Brandon Halsey

Fight #5  Alejandro Garcia (14-5) vs Cristiano Souza (6-0)

Rd 1: Souza utilizing some heavy hands, but Garcia is countering well. Both fighters are swinging for the fences. Every strike is a commitment. Nice take down from Souza as he ducked under a jab nicely to secure position. Souza working in Garcia’s guard/ Both fighters back up and Garcia lands a nice elbow before eating a low knee at the bell. Souza landed several strikes before the low blow.  10-9 Souza with the late take down.

Rd 2: Souza flirts with the liver kick, but Garcia circle out. Leg Kick from Souza. Garcia is stalking Souza. Souza again lands to the leg. Souza misses with lead left, but able to get a hold of Garcia, apparently something landed low, Garcia is down. Action starts back up. Now Souza is the one stalking forward. Garcia ducks under the right hand and gets the body lock. Nice knee from Souza in the clinch, and again. Garcia grounds himself with a hand to avoid further knees. Garcia able to get away, but Souza again gets a hold of him. More knees from the clinch as the round comes to a close. 10-9 Souza

Rd 3: Flying knee from Souza, but he heats a big right hand counter from Garcia. Garcia backs him up, momentarily. Souza able to get the take down. Souza transitions to Gracia’s back and is looking for the choke. Garcia fighting the hands well enough to survive for now. Souza trying to soften him up with strikes. The choke looks tighter now, and Garcia taps.

Winner: Cristiano Souza Via submission rear naked choke. rd

Live on Spike TV:

Main Card Fight 1: Akop Stepanyan vs Mike Richman

Mike Richman wins via TKO (strikes) Rd 2

Daniel Straus vs Pat Curran for the 145 lbs World Title

Rd 1: Straus was able to take down Curran a couple of times and controlled position throughout the round ! Curran was able to land sporadically but 10 -9 Straus.

Rd 2: very close round, but Curran was striking with more urgency. Straus was able to secure a late take down, but Curran had him rocked on more than one occasion. 10-9 Curran

Rd 3: Curran in control of the clinch, He takes Straus down with a throw, but lands an illegal knee to the grounded Straus. Straus is hurt badly, this will cost Curran a point, and Straus will have 5 minutes to recover. He looks to be ok, but now the doctor is in the cage to take a look. Dr seems satisfied and we are going to continue. Pat Curran will be deducted 1 point. Nice show of sportsmanship as Curran apologizes. Straus takes him down immediately on the restart. Straus in side control. 10-8 Straus as he rides out the round on top. 10-8 Straus

Rd 4: Again Straus in charge as he has Curran pressed against the cage. Straus has hip control and slams Curran to the mat. Now looking for the back, Straus is in complete control up too this point. Straus is smothering Curran who can’t seem to get any offense going. Another take down for Straus, as Curran attacks the neck. Curran looking for a guillotine pulls guard, it looks tight, but Straus holding tight. Straus gets his head out, and is back in the open guard. Body head from Straus. Nice elbow from the challenger. Curran busted open, and Straus with a standing guillotine but the round comes to a close. 10-9 Straus

Rd 5: Nice body kick from Straus starts the frame. Curran looking to counter but can’t seem to get off. Straus is beating him to the punch every time. Flying knee from Straus finds the solar plexus of Curran, Big flurry from Straus, knees an punches have the champion on his bicycle. Curran now looking to do damage against the cage, but time is running out. Curran looks for a last minute sub, as he pulls guard, but Straus gets free and should be the new champion!

Winner: Via Decision and New Featherweight Champion of the World Daniel Straus 

King Mo vs Emanuel Newton for interim 205 lbs title.

Rd 1: King Mo is busting up Newton after a clinch. Newton lands a low blow, and Herb Dean halts the action for a moment. Newton lands with a right, goes for the back fist, as Mo shot and ends up on his back again. Mo working in the open guard of Newton. Newton gets back to his feet and flirts with a high kick that flails. Mo starts clowning an Manny lands a head kick before the round ends 10-9 King Mo

Rd 2: Both fighters cautious as the second frame begins. Newton charging forward with a single leg kick, Mo walks through it. Mo looks for the single leg, then lets it go. Knees against the cage from Mo find Newtons body. Another take down scores for Lawal. Newton lands a head kick after he stands and Mo is rocked. Knee from Newton lands. Mo on his bicycle. Lazy shot from Mo is stuffed by Newton. Mo back to moving forward, the cobwebs appear to have cleared. Newton now in the center of the cage, lands a nice over hand right. 10-9 Newton

Rd 3: Newton starts the round with range effective kicks, that keep Mo at bay. Newton lands a nice right, and eats the counter from Lawal. King Mo appears to be looking to land one big shot. Nice exchange as both fighters land. Mo may have got the better of the exchange. Nice kick to the thigh for Newton. Newton landing the cleaner shots, as both fighters are looking to explode. Kin Mo moving forward, backs Newton against the cage again. Nice right from King Mo, after a brief clinch, but Newton also lands. 10-9 Mo in a razor close round.

Rd 4: Emanuel again looking for the spinning strike, but Mo backs off then returns fire. Nice kick from Newton lands. Lead left from Mo lands on the temple of Newton. Punch and Kick from Newton find Mo’s face. 3 punch combo for Mo lands, but Newton fires back to the lead leg. Lawal ducks under a right and attempts the take down, but Newton breaks free. Lawal with a double leg, secures the take down. Newton back to his feet, but Lawal is blanketing him against the cage. Knees to thethgh of Newton before both fighters separate. Spinning back fist from Newton misses again, body shot from Lawal doesn’t! Starching jab from Lawal snaps Newtons head back. Front kick from Newton finds Lawal’s mid section as the round comes to a close. 10-9 Lawal in a close round

Rd 5: Nice right hand from Newton glances of the temple of Lawal. Newton moving forward eats a left from Lawal then circles off. Lawal showing some urgency now. Newton lands with a nice over hand right, and a loud cracking left on the exit. Lawal now has Newton’s back, but is unable to take him down. Newton misses with a kick and a flailing left. Mo circling to his right. Nice combination from Lawal, followed by a kick from Newton. Nice right hands from Lawal have Newton leaking some awesomeness. IQ changing right hand from Lawal has Newtons attention. Big breath from Newton. Lawal again with the single leg, and he is able to take Newton down. Spinning back fist from Newton lands with seconds remaining he shoots in and Mo stuffs him. 10-9 Lawal

Winner: Via Unanimous Decision Emanuel Newton is the New Interim 205 lbs World Champion 

MAIN EVENT:

Michael Chandler (Champion) vs Eddie Alvarez (challenger) 5 X 5 rounds for the 155 lbs Bellator World Title

Rd 1: Nice punches from both fighters start. Chandler lands with a heavy left, Alvarez with the right. Chanders right eye already has a small mouse growing. Alvarez searching for a leg, but Chandler gets away easily. Nice jab from Alvarez. Nice jab from the champion. Nice right hand from Chandler lands, Alvarez on his bicycle. Alvarez with a nice counter right hand. Big right hand from Chandler sends Alvarez in search of a leg. The champion is starting to land now. Nice counter from Alvarez. Chadler misses with a big left hook. Big take down from Chadler, he almost has the choke, but Alvarez gets free. Great scramble.  Chandler bullying Alvarez as the round comes to a close. 10-9 Chandler.

Rd 2: Nice jab from the Champion starts us off. Big 2 punch combo from Chandler lands, as does the counter from Alvarez. Nice combination from the Alvarez gets away from the take down, and lands a right and a left to the head. Nice kick from Chandler, sets up the take down. Alvarez back up, and goes for a ride. Another take down for Chandler. Belly to back Suplex by Chandler. Alvarez back to his feet against the cage, but again dragged down by the champion. Alvarez trying to fight the body lock, is able to escape. Alvarez rocks Chandler for a second with a big left hand. Chandler again able to score the take down. Chandler trying to posture up as the round comes to an end. 10-9 Chandler Very close round.

Rd 3: Both fighters trade in the center of the cage, with Alvarez getting the best of the exchange. Chandler looks for the take down, but Alvarez effectively sprawls away. Both fighter reset, nice leg kick from the champion. Alvarez now pressing the action. Alvarez trying his best to get away from another take down, but Chandler is still very deep on the legs. Alvarez slips away. Leg kick from Alvarez. The challenger now landing with jabs and right hands. Chandler again looking for the take down. Alvarez has his back, and is now piecing up the champion with his hands. Alvarez now looking for the take down. But Chandler gets away only to eat a big right hand. Nice take down from Chandler and he gets to Alvarez’s back. Chandler able to secure the take down. Alvarez trying to elbow from the bottom, but the round comes to a close. Alvarez get his first round 10-9 Alvarez.

Rd 4: Chandler starches Alvarez with the jab as we start the fourth round. Alvarez with  feigns with the level change, then presses chandler against he cage. Chandler with a nice knee, and a right hand. Chandler again scores with the take down, Nice ground and pound from the champion. Big right hands from Chandler, and 3 more. Alvarez in trouble on his back, nice elbow from Chandler. Alvarez getting worked by the champion on the ground. Chandler smothering Alvarez. seat-belt from the champion has Alvarez’s arm pinned behind his back. Short elbows from the champ. Alvarez is busted up. Big right hands form Chandler go unanswered, Alvarez trying to survive the round. Chandler finishes a dominant round in top position 10-9 Chandler

Rd 5: Final Round. Alvarez with a lot of urgency to start throws a few punches that miss, but he is charging forward. Chandler looks for a take down, that Alvarez sprawls away from. Chandler lands a nice right hand, and gets Alvarez down, Quick tansition to the back, and the choke is close. Alvarez fights the hands, and gets back to his feet. Now Alvarez pressing Chandler against the cage. Roll from Chandler to get free doesnt work, but he gets up anyway. Chandler lets go of a single leg, as Alvarez lands a big left. Another shot from Chandler misses and Alvarez capitalizing with strikes against the cage. Alvarez now has Chandler’s back, both hooks are in the choke is deep, but Chandler gets out, Again the choke is tight, but Chandler again gets free. He is not out of trouble, as Alvarez still has control. Chandler turns free, and is back on top. Now mounted, Alvarez bucks free, but Chandler still able to take him down. The fight ends with Chandler on top. What a great rematch! 10-9 Alvarez.

Winner: Via Split Decision And New 155 lbs World Champion Eddie Alvarez. WOW

 

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