Posts Tagged ‘Bjorn Rebney’

Eddie Alvarez, No Longer Staying Quiet!

Posted: May 4, 2013 in Combat Sports, UFC
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Bjorn Rebney bellator Owner and CEO

Bjorn Rebney bellator Owner and CEO

By Jonathan M King The Clinch Report

Last week Bellator CEO Bjorn Rebney came out and said that talks between the company and the former champion had broken down, and seemed less than hopeful that a resolution would be made. In fact the Bellator Chairman seemed content to allow the courts to settle the issue.

“I had hope a month ago there was a door opening,” Rebney said. “But that door isn’t open at this point. So I don’t know. The court system is slow and methodical, and we’re just going through the process. I don’t have any projections of it getting settled at this point because we’re not talking”, Rebney said.

“The essence of it is, the promoter is never going to get everything he wants and the fighter is never going to get everything he wants. We have a position that we did everything right legally, and the court has supported us. I thought we were headed down a road (to resolution), and then everything went real dark.” (From an interview with http://www.MMAJUNKIE.com)

Yesterday, Eddie Alvarez used twitter to rattle of a few of his contentions. First of all he claimed that the issue was more with Viacom and SpikeTv, and went further to claim that Bjorn had little to do with the situation at all. “Bjorns a Grunt in this . It’s Viacom and Spike and a group of idiots a money who don’t know shit about Mma” Alvarez tweeted.

Then Alvarez went further, claiming he is not the only fighter being mistreated. “I have nothing to complain about I get paid we’ll enough to keep bills paid but to bully guyslike @ZachFunSize(Zach Macovsky) n @CosmoAlexandre (Cosmo Alexandre)is a sin.” Alvarez tweeted.


Alexandre jokingly tweeted about spending his last four dollars and gas, with the hashtag “ThanksBjorn”. Alvarez is not in that dire of straights, but he is in the prime of his career, and should be fighting. No one can say for sure how this drama will unfold, but as for now one of the best fighters in the world is relegated to the shelf, at least for the foreseeable future.

Eddie Alvarez will be n the MMA HOUR with Ariel Helwani on Monday. However saty tuned to his twitter feed, because he teased that he might not be able to wait! “I might just dump just real shit tonight until I get a call from someone to stop. Soooo much to talk about,now that the gloves are off” Alvarez tweeted.

Follow Eddie Alvarez on twitter here: @Ealvarezfight

Bellator MMA 95 Main Card Predictions and Analysis

Posted: April 3, 2013 in Combat Sports, UFC
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By: Jonathan King The Clinch Report

Main Card Analysis and Predictions

Karo ‘The Heat’ Parisyan (22-9) vs Rick Hawn (14-2)

An very interesting match-up kicks off the Spike TV televised main card, as former UFC title contender Karo Parisyan makes his Bellator debut against former lightweight tournament winner Rick Hawn. As high level Judo practitioners they are no stranger too each other, and the competition has fueled a heated rivalry. Simply put these guys don’t like each other. Parisyan is finally healthy again, after several years of injuries, and personal issues that cost him his status in the division.  Hawn, makes his return to welterweight in hopes of winning another title shot. However, Parisyan is a savvy veteran, who is in great shape for the first time in a long time, so he should turn some heads with his performance.

Predictions: Rick Hawn via Decision


Magomedrasul ‘Frodo’ Khasbulaev (20-5) vs Mike Richman (15-2)

Khasbulaev won his last fight vs Marlon Sandro in very impressive fashion. Dominating the perennial contender for 2 1/2 rounds before finishing him with strikes late in the third frame. In doing so ‘Frodo’ (as he is called), earned a featherweight tournament finals position against Mike Richman who won a hotly contested decision to Alexander ‘Popo’ Bezzera. Richman may have the edge in striking technique, but Khasbulaev will have a decisive strength advantage.

Prediction: Khasbulaev via TKO rd 2


Brett Cooper (19-7) vs Doug ‘The Rhino’ Marshall (17-6)

The middleweight tournament finals features the classic striker vs grappler match-up. Cooper is a very well rounded mixed martial artist, who has a very strong wrestling base. However, it was his chin and fortitude that was on display in his last fight, which saw Cooper nearly out on his feet at one point, only to come back and win by KO. Marshall’s journey to the finals was much more controversial as he won a a split decision over Sultan Aliev, in a fight many thought he lost. Marshall will need to learn from that fight, and avoid the wrestling of Cooper if he wants to win this fight. Cooper, needs to stay away from Marshall’s power striking game, and stay in his chest.

Prediction: Cooper via Decision


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Pat Curran Champion (18-4) vs Shahbulat Shamhalaev Challenger (12-1-1) For The Featherweight Title

Shamhalev is riding a 6 fight win streak, that allowed him to step in for the injured Daniel Strauss (who will get his shot eventually according to Bjorn Rebeney) and stake his claim to the title. In his way, is one of the “Faces” of  Bellator Pat Curran. Curran is currently ranked #3 or #4 in the world at featherweight, and is in the midst of a 5 fight win streak that has seen him win and defend the featherweight strap. Shamhalaev will look to neutralize Curran’s strong wrestling with his Sambo back-round. This fight should be an exciting slug fest.

Prediction: Shamhalaev via 3rd rd TKO

Commentary on Bellator:

In the movie “Field of Dreams” the voice of a ghost eerily yet soothingly tells Kevin Costner’s character “if you build it, they will come!” In summary, he does…and they do!

This seems to be the exact format that Bellator has been using from the beginning. Simply put, if they have exciting fights, people will watch, no matter what the names of the fighters are, and even if you can’t pronounce them.

Since the move to Spike TV, Bellator has enjoyed very high ratings. The simple reason for the surge, the fighters! Unlike other promotions that use pomp and circumstance to create drama, and too build hype, Bellator approaches their setup as a fight fan would, not as an event coordinator! The result, a rear view mirror filled with exciting fights.

Leading the charge, is a long list of talented fighters from Russia, with even longer names. A place now dubbed “The New Brazil” according Bjorn Rebeney Bellator CEO. Fighters such as: Shahbulat Shamhalaev, Magomedrasul Khasbulaev have followed the success of Alexander Schlemenko and are now on the precipice of their own title shots.

Bellator’s growth is assured, not because of the popularity of the sport, but because people will always watch exciting fighters fight each other, no matter who is listed on the marquee.



TUF 17 - Wear What the Fighters Wear

The Fire Burns Once Again For Karo ‘The Heat’ Parisyan

Posted: March 20, 2013 in Combat Sports, UFC
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Interviewed by Karisa Winett The Clinch Report

Contributions by Jonathan King and John Walsh

The fire of competition is built on years of training, and is fueled by many motivations. For many fighters, these motivations change. They become infected with injury, or influenced by family and friends. Often the pure love of competition is lost in the search for a paycheck, or for recognition. Talent alone is not enough to counter life’s heavy hands, but it does serve for a starting point, should the fire begin to burn again. For Karo ‘The Heat’ Parisyan, the furnace is once again stoked, fueled, and ‘The Heat’ is back on!

UFC 154 GSP Walkout Shirts and Gear

At one time, Karo Parisyan was one of the most talented fighters on the UFC roster. His judo pedigree coupled with his brazilian jujitsu back-round made him one of the deadliest ground fighters in the game. With notable wins over Josh Thompson, Nick Diaz, Matt Serra, and Chris Lytle, Parisyan earned himself a shot for the #1 contender position against Diego Sanchez. Although losing the fight via decision in a back and forth affair, Parisyan solidified his reputation as the fight earned a Fight of the Year nod.

Everything seemed to be going great, but then slowly the fire began to go out. Injuries mounted, that led to poor performances and an addiction pain killers arose in attempt to keep himself fighting. After being cut from the UFC, Parisyan continued fighting injured, and soon found himself a memory in terms of relevance in the MMA world.

Then in 2012 Parisyan began the slow process of rebuilding the fire that once fueled him. Slowly under the watchful eye of Team Hayastan leader Gokor Chivichyan, ‘The Heat’ began feeling healthy again, and with two wins in less than two months, he appeared to be in great form.

With the return to form, Parisyan was able to secure a deal with Bellator. His first fight however, would not be a tune up, he would be fighting former Judo rival Rick Hawn at Bellator 95 April 4th at the Revel Casino in Atlantic City New Jersey. The fight will air live on Spike TV. Hawn, is returning to the 170 lbs division after his loss to Michael Chandler in a 155 lbs title fight. Although the two have never fought in MMA before, they have competed against each other in Judo, and have built quite a rivalry.

“I don’t like Rick Hawn” Parisyan said. “He has said alot of bad things about me, saying he didn’t want to be compared to me!” [in reference a statement Rick Hawn made before transitioning to MMA when he was compared to Karo for his Judo back-round by a reporter Hawn Responded :”“I wouldn’t want to compare myself to him, kind of just because I can’t stand the guy,” said Hawn. “I’ll be better than he was. He had a base with judo but he wasn’t as good. My judo is a little more advanced.”] “He should be happy to compared to me, I helped put Judo on the map for guys like him.” Parisyan said

Although Parisyan does not like Hawn, he does respect his ability. “His right hand is really good, he has been knocking guys out with that, and he is a really strong athlete.” Parisyan said. “But I’m walking around heavier, and have built more strength I used to walk around at 172 and fight at 170, but now I’m closer to 190.” The new strength has shown in the gym, as he is now sparring with bigger guys, and pushing them around.

For Parisyan the future is uncertain, but his focus is clearly placed on his April 4th fight. “I have a three fight deal with Bellator, maybe I will enter a tournament, we will see what they say after this fight.” Parisyan said. For now, the fire will continue to grow. Fueled solely by the motivation too “Shut a few people up…and to kick Rick Hawns ass!”  Parisyan said.


TUF 17 - Wear What the Fighters Wear

The Russian Invasion Continues! Bellator 92 Highlights

Posted: March 8, 2013 in Combat Sports, UFC
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Marlon Sandro is a warrior!

Marlon Sandro is a warrior!

The Clinch Report by Jonathan King Photos by: John Walsh

Bellator MMA Championship tournaments have been on an exciting run of late showcasing some of the best MMA fights ever to be seen on live television. Since the company has moved over to Spike TV, the organization has seen a revolving door of exciting fights, and stunning upsets, most of which have ended in highlight real KO’s. Can this trend continue?  The Bellator matchmakers seem to think so, but maybe that is because they are sitting on a “Golden Goose” so to speak.

Since Bellator joined the foray on SpikeTV, filling the vacancy left by the UFC, it seems almost ever single fight has been an exciting one. One reason for that is the matchmakers at Bellator seem to have discovered a hidden vault of  vicious unheard of fighters from the “New Brazil” as Bjorn Rebeny said. Where is the “New Brazil”? It very well could be Russia.

For years the Heavyweight division in MMA was dominated by one man. Fedor Emelianenko may be the most popular Russian mixed martial artist of all time, but following him are a cadre of talented fighters, with varying styles. Most of these fighters seem to be ending up in Bellator.

With Bellator’s debut on SpikeTV the world became exposed to this Russian invasion for the first time, and many including most ring side reporters were shocked. Heading into that night MMA legend Renato ‘Babalu’ Sobral was the favorite to win the light heavyweight tournament. That night he was supposed to run through his unknown opponent, however Mikhail Zayats had other plans. The heavy handed Russian dispatched ‘Babalu’ with vicious strikes that left the legend in a crumpled heap, and the fans with their mouths agape. The only people who were not surprised, were the Bellator match makers who all week were lauding the power and skill of the underdog Zayats.

Last nights Bellator 92 featherweight and Middleweight tournament Semi finals featured more of the same. Akop Stepanyan started the Russians contingent off on the right foot, by laying heavy hands on Chris Saunders early and often. Eventually finishing the fight with a liver splitting kick that Saunders complained caught him low. After the ref said fight on, Stepanyan dropped some academic ground strikes that forced the stoppage, but the highlight reel kick is what finished the fight.

Sultan Aliev was next set to face Doug Marshall in a battle for the Middleweight Tournament Finals. Aliev used his impressive wrestling and sambo skill, to smother the explosive Marshall. With the crowd booing and Marshall complaining to the Ref, Aliev seemed content to grind out a decision against the heavy handed striker. However, he stopped advancing positions, and began to receive warnings from referee Herb Dean.  As the second round wore on, several times the ref stopped the action to restart the fighters standing. On the restarts, Marshall showed his explosive power often landing heavy hands before again being dragged to the mat. The third round saw a much more aggressive Marshall swinging for the fences. As the round came to an end, Marshall dropped some heavy hands on Aliev as he pulled guard. Once the split decision was read in favor of Marshall he seemed more surprised than anyone. Aliev, although dominant like his fellow Russians, fell short on the judges score cards, but most who saw thought he won the fight.

The headline fight of the evening featured Marlon Sandro vs ‘Frodo’ Khasbulaev. The winner of the fight would move on to the featherweight semi finals. For Sandro, this is a familiar position. In the past he had come up one fight short, in tournaments past. His return to the finals, was being blocked by a relatively unknown fighter, once again from Russia. Both fighters were extremely strategic, with their positioning, and soon it became clear that a Sambo v BJJ clinic would ensue. An inadvertent early low blow by Sandro almost stopped the fight, as Khasbulaev rolled in agony for several minutes. But after 5 minutes he was able to continue.

Both fighters used effective sweeps to gain control, Khasbulaev at one point used a kimura sweep to put Sandro in deep trouble as he cranked the arm. Sandro however used his own sweeps to attack a triangle that ‘Frodo’ escaped quickly. The second round saw more take downs by Khasbulaev but again Sandro seemed to escape every precarious situation including a crucifix position, that saw multiple right hands bounce off of his forehead. The third round was more of the same, but now Sandro seemed to be tired. Khasbulaev controlled the Brazilian on the ground, and again secured an arm that left Sandro defenseless against several right hands, prompting Referee John McCarthy to stop the fight.

With the win, Khasbulaev secures his spot in the featherweight finals, and for a chance at the 100,000 dollar prize for winning the most exciting tournament in all of Mixed Martial Arts. With Khasbulaev, and Zayats in the finals of their tournaments, and with Alexander Shlemenko as a champion, Bellator may have found the new Brazil buried in the arctic landscape of Russia.

Bellator 92 Live Updates

Posted: March 7, 2013 in Combat Sports, UFC
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Rocky Ramirez  (204) Vs  Brandon Halsey (205) Light Heavyweight

Rd 1: Big left hand from Ramirez, prompts Halsey to shoot, and he lands the takedown in side control now. Mount as Ramirez rolls, Halsey lands big elbows, Vicicous ground and pound by Halsey. Ramierez gives up his back, both hooks are in as the chokes is applied, but Ramirez defends well. Ramirez escapes but Halsey wont let him up, and again is looking for the back.  Stuck half way between the back and mount,  the round comes to an end. We give it to Halsey 10-9 Halsey but easily could have been 10 -8

Rd2: Round starts with both fighters pawing jabs. Halsey shoots again and immediately returns to a dominant position. Now in Side control, Halsey again starts the ground and pound.  Big elbows for Halsey land. Halsey dominating once again. Ramirez seems to have no answer for Halsey’s ground game. Halsey with more elbows, that seem to have caused a Huge hemmatoma over Ramirez’s eye. Round comes to an end, another dominant round for Halsey. 10-8

Rd3. Immediately Halsey takes the fight to the ground. This time he is able to secure an arm in choke. Ramirez taps at .50 of round 3.

Winner: Brandon Halsey via Arm in Triangle Choke :50 rd 3

Shad Smith  Vs Aaron Miller Featherweight Bout

Rd1: Smith pushes the early action as Miller lands leg kicks moving backwards. Still moving forward Smith lands a big one, two. More leg kicks from Miller, this time to the outside. Smith starting to land with more consistency, as Miller continues to back pedal. Fight goes to the ground, with Miler landing in side control. Miller looking for a kimura, but Smith defends well. The round comes to an end tough round to score. 10-9 Smith

Rd2: Miller able to secure an early take down. Now in Smith’s guard, but not much happening. Miller transitions to the back, Smith defending well, but no Miller flattens him out. Big elbows to the side of Smiths head. More elbows, but Smith covering up well. Miller than grabs a hold of a leg, and starts looking for the knee bar. Looks deep as the round ends. 10-9 Miller

Rd3: Again Miller able to secure a take down, as Smith pulls guard. Miller looking to transition to the mount, but defended well by Smith. Smith turns the table and momentarily looks for the arm bar. Miller escapes, and now back in Smith’s guard. Smith is able to transition to the back. Again looking for the knee bar, but Miller lets it go and decides to pursue the choke instead. Miller looks for an arm, and softens Smith up with a few hammer fists as the fight comes to an end. Miller 10-9

Winner: Aaron Miller via Unanimous Decision

Josh Appelt  Vs Manny Lara Heavyweight Bout

Rd1: Lara slams Appelt agaisnt the cage looking for an early take down. Appelt defends well, But Lara has a double leg, and immediately parlays it into a take down. Appelt back to his feet, and lands a big right hand. Appelt now on Lara’s back as both fighters go to the ground. Appelt Postures and lands big punches from the side. lara back to his feet as the clinch ensues. Appelt switches positions and gets another take down, and begins to land left hands to the head of his grounded opponent. Lara storms back landing heavy hands that has Appelt on his bicycle. Lara catches him again with an illegal blow, and referee Big John stops the action. Action resumes and Appelt again in side control as the round comes to an end. 10-9

Rd2: Apelt looks for another take down, as Lara lands Hammer fists in response. Appelt  on top again, and landing elbows and left hands to the mid section of Lara. More ground and pound from Appelt, as Lara looks to get back to his feet. Lara reversed and starts to land lefts and rights as he takes Appelts back. Late flurry may have stole the round for Lara, however Appelt controlled most of the round so we see it 10-9 Appelt

Rd3: Fighters hug to start the round. Appelt with a nice jab. Lara responds with a front kick and leg kick combo that lands. Lara with his back against the cage seems to be playing possum, but Appelt isnt buying it. More jabs from Appelt,and a nice right cross. Appelt again able to drag Lara to the mat. Appelt landing punches to the head of Lara as Lara flails he clips  Appelt low stopping the action again. Appelt bull rushes on the restart pushing Lara against the fence. Lara jockeying for an escape, but Appelt wont let him go, and takes him back to the mat. Now in side control, But Lara is gets back to his feet and starts swinging for the fences, some of them land clean as Appelt retreats. Too little to late. Appelt 10-9

Winner: Appelt via Unanimous Decision 30-24 (two fouls)

Richard Rigmaden Vs Keith Berry Middleweight Bout

Rd1: Big right hand by Rigmaden gets Berry’s attention as he shoots and immediately drags the fight to the ground. Berry working in Rigmaden’s loose guard. Berry grabs an arm, and rolls to the opposite hip, forcing the tap.

Winner: Berry via Submission (Kimura) 1:20 Rd 1

Akop Stepanyan  Vs Chris Saunders Lightweight Bout

Rd1: Both fighters feeling each other out, as action starts off slow. Stepanyan landing snapping kicks, as Saunders is moving to his right, then starts moving to his left. Stepanyan looking to load up on his right hand, but Saunders moving swiftly. Head kick by Stepanyan lands, as Saunders starts to work his own leg kicks. Stepanyan countering well, and landing the heavier shots so far. Spinning back fist by Saunders just misses. Big liver kick by Stepanyan. and follows with a high kick to the face. Stepanyan with a standing guillotine, but the round comes to an end. Stepanyan 10-9

Rd2: Saunders again starts with the leg kicks as Stepanyan counters with a jab cross combo. Saunders mid section showing the sings of Stepanyan’s kicks.  Kick lands low on Saunders and Referee John McCarthy stops the action. Touch of the gloves, and action resumes. More kicks from Stepanyan find their mark.Spin kick just misses, as Stepanyan chops a leg that momentarily drops Saunders. Another head kick from Stepanyan, prompts a shot from Saunders but, Stepanyan gets away. More kicks from Stepanyan have Saunders midsection looking very red. Saunders lands a nice leg kick as the round comes to an end. 10-9 Stepanyan

Rd3: Saunders starts the round with some urgency, and catches Stepanyan dropping him with a left momentarily. Now Stepanyan drops Saunders for a second with a counter right hand. Both fighters trade kicks, and Saunders with another to Stepanyan’s liver. Saunders now the much busier fighter, as Stepanyan is picking his shots methodically. Saunders goes down from a low blow, but Big John doesnt see it, Stepanyan re engages, and starts dropping lefts and rights to the grounded Saunders, they seem academic. Big John Stops the fight.

Winner: Stepanyan via TKO 3:50 rd 3

Sabah Homasi Vs Ricky Legere Welterweight Bout *Legere missed weight(sacrafices 20% of his purse)

Rd1: Homasi takes the center of the cage only to be pushed back by Legere. Big knee by Homasi lands, but Legere still in control. Another knee y Homasi stagger Legere momentarily. Inside elbow by Homasi lands. Followed by a pne two combination. Legere shoots, and slams Homasi to the mat. Transitioning to the back Legere has both hooks in. Elbows from Legere land, as Homasi covers up. More hammer fists as Herb Dean looks in. Homasi is in trouble. Legere looking to choke, but then decides to soften him up with punches. End of the round finds Legere on top and in control 10-9 Legere.

Rd2: Homasi starts with a leg kick jab, that pushes Legere back. More heavy hands from Homasi force Legere to shoot, and he successfully get Homasi down, and achieves mount. Legere stuck in half guard, looks to mount and does. Hip escape by Homasi fails. Legere transitions to the back, and again starts softening Homasi up with hooks to the side of the head. The choke looks like its deep, and it is. Homasi is forced to tap.

Rd3:

Nick Piedmont (146) Vs Cleber Luciano (144.6)

Popo Bezerra  Vs Mike Richman Featherweight Tournament Semi Finals

Rd1: Popo starts out with a leg kick, as Richman switches stances. Popo shoots, but Richman defends well momentarily, than lands on his back but pops up quickly. Popo holding on to the single leg, as Richman looks to escape. Popo drags Richman to the mat, but again Richman wall walks back to his feet. Popo brings it back donwn to the ground and takes Richmans back,. Richman defending the choke well. Richman sitting up, often to avoid the choke, but time ticks away and the round comes to an end. Popo Bezerra 10-9 in a very slow first round.

Rd2: Richman starts the round well landing jabs and crosses, but Popo counters well with movement. More straight lefts from Richman find their mark, as Pop is breathing with his mouth open. Richman finding success with straight punches. Popo is looking to load up, but is already showing signs of fatigue. Blood from Popo’s nose. Head kick by Popo lands. Fighters are trading single shots, with Richman looking the sharper of the two. Giving that frame to Richman 10-9

Rd3: Both fighters trading punches two and three at a time. Richman still utiliing those straight punches. Popo shoots, and gets a takedown transitionin from north south position to side control. Richman defending the mount, but Popo is scoring. Swiftly Popo transitions to the back, but Richman is hand fighting and using the cage well to avoid any damage. Richman reverses landing in Popo’s closed guard. Richman stands forcing Popo to rise.  More straight punched from Richman find their mark. No Popo is landing with the jab, Richman rocks Popo with a right. One two from Richman, Both fighter trade to the bell. Tough round and fight to score. We have the round and the fight going to Richman.

Winner: Via Split Decision Mike Richman 

Dan Cramer  Vs Brett Cooper Welterweight Tournament Semi Finals

Rd1: Cramer drops Cooper right away, but the ground game is underway. Cooper looking to scramble but  Cramer keeps him smothered. Cramer now transitions to the back and has both hooks in, however Cooper defending well. Cramer still looking to sink the choke, but Cooper with the switch, reverses position as the round comes to an end. 10-9 Cramer

Rd2: Round begins with both fighters engaged in a clinch. Cramers back to the fence, very little action, Cramer now reverses and begins to land lefts and rights. But back to the clinch. Knees from Cramer land, as Cooper starting to bleed. More big shots from Cramer. Cooper is in trouble, but will survive the round. 10-9 Cramer

Rd3: Cramer counters a looping Cooper right with one two. As Cooper retreats Cramer follows with a stiff left hand. Cooper secures a take down after a brief clinch, and lands momentarily in  Cramers closed guard before returning to their feet. Cooper lands a big right hand a left that has Cramer on dream street. He tries to stand but falls again, and again as Big John has seen enough, and steps in to halt the contest at 3:19 of rd 3.

Winner Brett Cooper via KO 3:19

Sultan Aliev  Vs Doug Marshall Middleweight Tournament Semi Finals

Rd1: Marshall starts out the aggressor, but Aliev drags the fight to the ground. Marshall trying to land from his back.  But Aliev is smothering him up against the cage. Marshall closes the guard and is looking for a triangle, but Aliev shrugs it off. Hammerfists land on Marshall’s jaw. Marshall trying his best to control Aliev’s posture. Marshall back to his feet as he glances at the clock. Knee to the body by Marshall. Back to the mat, where Aliev continues to control Marshall. Herb Dean looking for action, stands up the fighters. Marshall bull rushes but is sent to his back again as the round comes to an end. 10-9 Aliev

Rd2: Big head kick by Marshall rocks Aliev. Who looks to shoot again, as he again brings the fight to the ground. Now inside the closed guard of Marshall, Aliev begins jockeying for position.Herb Dean again calls for acton as both fighters are brought back to their feet. Marshall landing ones and twos, as Aliev again shoots successfully  but Marshall springs back to his feet. The round comes to an end, as both fighters look exhausted. 10-9 Aliev

Rd3: Both fighters touch gloves, as Marshall pursues Aliev across the cage. Aliev taking Mrashall’s back, but he is able to pop back up and lands a few hooks, as Aliev again looks for the take down. Marshall pressed against the fence as the crowd calls for action. Once again Herb Dean stands them up, and Aliev on his bicycle. Marshall again falls into the clinch of Aliev who again takes him down. Marshall busy from the bottom, landing lefts and rights. Big right hand drops Aliev and another as the bell sounds. 10-9 Aliev despite the late flurry by Marshall.

Winner via Split Decision Doug Marshall moves on to the tournament finals against Brett Cooper

Froddo Khasbulaev  Vs Marlon Sandro Featherweight Tournament Semi Finals

Rd1: Start of the round finds both fighters in the clinch. Low blow  by Sandro forces an early stoppage. Khasbulaev in obvious pain, as he is taking quite a bit of time to recover. Finally back to his feet, he looks like he is ready. Here we go. Sandro lands a nice left, but Khasbulaev scores a take down. Sandro back up, as he separates. Big right hand by Khasbulaev, who immediately grabs an arm. Armbar looks deep by Khasbalaev, But Sandro spins free. Sandro now working inside the guard of Sandro. Khasbalaev rollsm abd ends up on top with a deep Kimura that Sandro escapes. Now in the mount Khasbalaev rains down hammerfists as the round draws to a close. Khasbalaev 10-9

Rd2: Spinning heel kick by Khasbalaev misses. Left hand leg kick by Khasbalaev is countered by a left from Sandro. Back in the clinch, Khasbalaev again controls the Brazillian on the ground. Nice sweep by Sandro, finds him in Khasbalaev’s half guard. Sandro flattening out Khasbalaev and looking for the choke. Now transfers to the arm in choke, but Khasbulaev breaks free. Both fighters standing again. Three punch combo by Khasbulaev followe by another take down. The Russian is now posturing up and landing good strikes on the ground. Again Khasbulaev isolates an arm, but Sandro breaks away and grabs a single leg. Khasbulaev is able to sweep int half guard where the round comes to an end. 10-9 Khasbulaev

Rd3: Inside trip by Khasbulaev from the clinch finds the fight in familiar position. Sandro is in a tough position as Khasbulaev traps an arm and begins to land right hands to the side of Sandro’s head. Now standing Sandro cannot get away. Again Khasbalaev takes the fight down.  More ground strikes land, as referee Big John McCarthy steps in to stop the fight.

Winner: Khasbulaev via TKO Rd 3

Frank Shamrock, Randy Couture, Greg Jackson and Joe Warren to Headline new MMA Reality show

Posted: February 5, 2013 in Combat Sports, UFC
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Bjorn Rebney bellator Owner and CEO

Bjorn Rebney bellator Owner and CEO

By: Jonathan King The Clinch Report

Once again Bellator shows their business acumen by following in the footsteps of one of the UFC’s most lucrative paths. Viacom and Bellator announced on Tuesday, that filming would begin “imminently” for a show that would be similar to the Ultimate Fighter, set to debut in the summer of 2013.

Several high profile MMA stars have signed on to coach including UFC exile Frank Shamrock, UFC Hall of Famer Randy Couture, renowned coach Greg Jackson, and former world champion Joe  Warren. The show dubbed “Fightmaster:”, will not be an exact clone of the TUF series, but very similar. Once again Bellator seems to have stolen more of the UFC’s thunder.

The most glaring issue is the signing of Randy Couture, whose tumultuous relationship with the UFC is apparently permanently put to rest. “I’m glad I never have to do business with the man ever again!” Dana White bristled when asked about Couture teaming with Bellator. “Most people that do business with him would agree!” White, also clarified that the former two division champion’s son would still be fighting under the UFC. Although he made it clear that the elder Couture was not welcome in any capacity. “He can’t even buy a ticket!”

Building on the TUF model, Viacom has put together a tremendous team to run “Fightmaster”. “The cornerstone of this show is really about the people behind it,” said Bellator president Bjorn Rebney.  ”The Amazing Race” creators Bertram van Munster and Elise Doganieri will be the wizards behind the curtains.

The series will feature 32 welterweights who will choose their own coaches. Fighters will compete for a 6 figure contract, as well as a spot in a future championship tournament. 2013 is looking like the year of Bellator.

Every move they make, seems to pay dividends. With partnerships that are genuinely concerned with producing a quality product, and fighters who tend to leave it all in the cage, the successful rise of this promotion seems to be guaranteed!

BELLATOR 85 A Dynamic Success Live on Spike TV

Posted: January 21, 2013 in Combat Sports, UFC
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By: Jonathan King The Clinch Report

Bellator made its debut on Spike TV, and did so in tremendous style. The partnerships first joint venture featured two title fights, and two light heavyweight tournament quarter final fights. Early results in show that just under 1 million people tuned in to watch the inaugural event. A huge increase from the numbers they had been seeing on MTV2.

Once all the pieces were in place and the lights heated up, it was out of the promoters hands. The fighters themselves would dictate the success or failure of this event. The gladiators made their intentions known from the onset, as several hotly contested preliminary fights got the crowd juiced, and more importantly the fighters waiting to perform. The under card was featured on Spiketv.com. Savant Young provided the spark with a tremendous one punch knock out of heavily favored Mike ‘The Joker’ Guymon. After being behind in the fight, Young countered an advancing Guymon with a well time left hand that floored the former UFC vet. A thunderous shot, on the ground was purely academic as the ref leaped in too stop any further damage.

The live portion of the Spike TV card began with an incredible back and forth scrap between featherweight title holder Pat Curran and aggressive challenger Patricio Pitbull. The crowd and the audience may have been expecting fireworks, however instead they were treated to a back and forth battle of attrition, that left both fighter swollen, battered, and bleeding. Curran narrowly eked out a split decision, holding on to his coveted featherweight crown.

Not may people gave a young unknown fighter from Russia a chance against a former UFC title contender, but Mikhail Zayats could care less about being an underdog. He only cares about winning, and he proved that after he over came huge odds, and a lopsided crowd to destroy UFC and Strikeforce veteran Renato ‘Babalu’ Sobral. A vicious spinning back fist, was the beginning of the end. Zayats left the crowd stunned, and the tournament with a new favorite!

The main event of the evening made several points clear. First of all after defeating a very game Rick Hawn, Michael Chandler’s name certainly has to be mentioned in the pound for pound category. His striking, and dominating wrestling made the fight look easy, although i am sure it was not. Chandler never looked to be out of control, and his pedigree as a champion has been solidified.

Thoughts on Bellator: Bellator provides an extremely exciting format with their tournament based champions. The roster of fighters has always been an exciting fusion of homegrown young talent, mixed with savvy veterans who have fought in several organizations. Bjorn Rebney and his partners have created a juggernaut of a promotion that seems to be creating its own path. For years, many companies have tried to follow the UFC business model and have failed miserably, simply because they were not the UFC. Bellator seems content to succeed in areas that UFC is either no longer interested in (fighters), or in avenues the UFC has no interest in such as: Pro wrestling. As long as the fights are exciting, and the product is not watered down the promotions success appears to be a guarantee at this point. 2013 could be the year Bellator becomes a true rival for the UFC, although it appears they don’t seem to care either way. Bellator seems only concerned with Bellator, and in the combat sports world, that is a refreshing take!

All Photos are provided by: John Walsh

Bellator Main Card Live on Spike Recap

Posted: January 18, 2013 in Combat Sports, UFC
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Savant Young and Mike Guymon begin their tango!

Savant Young and Mike Guymon begin their tango!

Pat Curran delivers a liver kick to Patricio Pitbull

Pat Curran delivers a liver kick to Patricio Pitbull

Chandler yanks the title hopes, and the neck of a very game Rick Hawn to retain the Lightweight Championship

Chandler yanks the title hopes, and the neck of a very game Rick Hawn to retain the Lightweight Championship

by: Jonathan King The Clinch Report

Patricio Pitbull v Pat Curran

Round1: Feeling out process immediately eats up the first minute.  Pitbull circling, not much for the first 3 minutes both fighters very wary of the others power. Curran using his range to land with the jab and cross. Not much action in the first round both fighters are obviously preparing for a long bout. I give it to Curran in a close 10-9

Round2: Pitbull beginning to land in bunches and finishing with the leg kick. Pitbull bleeding from the nose, after a long right hand from Curran. The champion tosses Pitbull to the mat, but Pitbull bounces back up! Curran landing with the jab, Pitbull landing with the kicks. another close round could go either way but we have Curran winning another 10-9 close round.

Round3: Pitbull starting to pen up with dynamic strikes. Flying knees, and combinations beginning to land, and still landing leg kicks. Curran landing now to the body of Pitbull. Curran backing up as Pitbull stalks. Flying knee by Curran misses, round ends. we are calling a 10-9 round for Pitbull but again very close could go either way!

Round4: Curran backing up as Pitbull flurries, a right hand lands to the back of the head and the ref seperates. A touch of the gloves, and Curran opens up with a 4 punch combination. Now Curran stalking. Pitbull shoots he has a single but a opposite flying knee, breaks the clinch. Curran again lands a hard one two combination. The round ends again, very close, but I have Curran  10-9

Round5: Both fighters trading ones and twos, as Pitbull shoots, Curran lands a big right hand stopping the take down attempt. Curran lands a liver kick that is caught, and breaks free with a straight right to the head.  Curran shoots but to no avail. Both fighters standing in the center of the cage, as Pitbull stalks. Pitbull is hurt by a big left hand. Curran cautiously closes in with a few straight punches that find there mark. Pitbull is gassed. Elbow by Curran lands in the clinch. Pitbull flurries with the last 20 seconds. Both fighters are landing as the bell sounds. Again very close but have to give Curran the nod 10-9 Have him wining the fight 4 rounds to 1.

Pat Curran wins by Split Decision.

Mikhail Zayats v Renato ‘Babalu’ Sobral

round1: Babalu starts out pawing with the jab, pushing Zayats backwards. Up against the cage Babaluu begins to land with the dirty boxing and the elbows.  Big John separates the fighters. Zayats lands a big right,  but lands low on Babalu. Big John gives Sobral a minute to recover but he doesnt need it!  now there back in the center of the cage. Back up against the fence, Babalu controls the clinch. Again big John separates the fighters.  Zayats lands big spinning backfist Babalu is in trouble. Zayats landing as Babalu gets on his bicycle. Left hands drops Babalu,  Zayats swarms Babalu on the ground with vicious hammer fists. And that is it!  Big John steps in. Mikhail Zayats wins by TKO Big upset, moves Zayats on to the semi finals of the light heavyweight division

Rick Hawn v Michael Chandler

round1: Both fighters are feeling each other out, as the circle Chandler lands an uppercut but Hawn counters with a leg kick. Big take down by the champion. Hawn working from guard, looking to secure an arm. Hawn very busy from his closed guard. Chandler very busy, but cannot seem to posture up. Hawn is controlling with a body lock from guard. Both fighters stand and Hawn lands a big left hand. But Chandler still coming forward. Round ends, with Chandler seemingly ahead 10-9 with his wrestling.

round2: Round two begins with Chandler taking Hawn down after a quick clinch. Hawn able to regain his feet, but immediately taken down again by Chandler. This time Hawn is on is his side, and Chandler quickly transitions. to the back, where he secures the choke yanking Hawn backwards before securing the tap. Winner Michael Chandler by submission Rear Naked Choke

Bellator weigh in Results

Posted: January 17, 2013 in Combat Sports, UFC
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The Calm Before the Storm

The Calm Before the Storm

Superman or Silverback? or Both! Seth Petruzelli

Joker

Joker

Two Lions

Two Lions

Intensity in Pitbull

Intensity in Pitbull

Confident Champion

Confident Champion

Challenger vs Champion Featherweight Fury!

Challenger vs Champion Featherweight Fury!

The Legend Babalu!

The Legend Babalu!

The Champion Michael Chandler

The Champion Michael Chandler

Hawn v Chandler

Hawn v Chandler

Noe v Petruzelli

Noe v Petruzelli

Superman or Silverback? Seth Petruzelli or Both!

Live on Spike TV DEBUT!Live on Spike TV DEBUT!

Jaime Yeagar

Jaime Yeagar

Yoked!

Yoked!

Bellator 85
Date: January 17, 2013
Venue: Bren Center
Location: Irvine, Calif.WEIGH In ResultsMain Card (on Spike TV):
-Michael Chandler (10-0) weight 154.6 vs. Rick Hawn (14-1) weight 155
-Renato “Babalu” Sobral (37-9) weight 205.2 vs. Mikhail Zayats (19-6) weight 205.7
-Seth Petruzelli (14-6) weight 205.4 vs. Jacob Noe (8-1) weight 205.9
-Pat Curran (17-4) weight 144.8 vs. Patricio “Pitbull” Freire (17-1) weight 144.5

Preliminary Card (on Spike.com):
-Emanuel Newton (18 – 7) weight 205.4 vs. Atanas Djambazov (17 – 2) weight 205.6
-Hector Ramirez (9 – 4) weight 204.8 vs. Jason Lambert (24 – 13) weight 205.5
-Aaron Miller (12 – 8) weight 145.8 vs. Joe Camacho (13 – 17) weight 145.8
-Joe Williams (7 – 1) weight 170.7 vs. Jamie Yager (6 – 3) weight 170.8
-Savant Young (10 – 9) weight 155.5 vs. Mike Guymon (14 – 5) weight 155.7
-Brian Warren (18 – 15) weight  165 vs. J.J. Ambrose (17 – 4) weight 164.5

-Mario Navarro (4 – 2) weight 144.8 vs. Cleber Luciano (7 – 4) weight 144.9

Bellator Open Workouts

Posted: January 16, 2013 in Combat Sports, UFC
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Photo by John Walsh

Photo by John Walsh

By Jonathan King The Clinch Report

With a mere 48 hours before Bellator is set to make their historic debut on Spike TV, an obviously anxious Bjorn Rebney walked thru the Huntington Beach training center to see the fighters warm up, wish them well, and of course speak with the press. With an absolutely stacked fight card featuring two world title fights, and also the opening round of the light heavyweight tournament; the promotion is set to hit the ground running with what on paper seems to be the most exciting card in their distinguished history.

Rebney spoke eagerly about the new venture on Spike Television. With this contract in place, the company seems destined to demand a larger sare of the MMA universe. Spike has always done really well in the world of  MMA, with both live events, and highlight shows. Also in the future are possible pay per view deals, that are being discussed. With the partnership with Viacom, and now with companies like TNA, Bellator seems to be gathering up a pretty sizable partnerships that will market the product to the highest level.

Recently Bellator was in the news as word broke that former title holder and fan favorite Eddie Alvarez was contesting the contract matching offer that kept him in Bellator and away from the competing UFC.  Rebney, however seemed optimistic that the former title holder would again be in the Bellator family. “Yes, I do see Eddie fighting in Bellator again.” Rebeney said. “We have had a really good relationship in the past, and hopefully we will again!”

The competitive under card  features UFC veteran Mike Guymon vs crafty veteran Savant Young. Guymon is making his Bellator debut after returning from a recent retirement from the sport, the hometown favorite is 2-0 since returning to the cage, and is looking to make one last run at a world title in the 155 lbs division.

The premiere of Bellator on Spike TV will air three live bouts. The first will be the third of the light heavyweight quarterfinal fights, as former UFC and Strikeforce title contender Renato ‘Babalu’ Sobral faces off against heavy handed Mikhail Zayats. ‘Babalu’ was present for the open workouts, shadow boxing lightly. After a quick bout with the media, he was looking to make an exit.

Other combatants such as the two fighters who will be putting their belts on the line, Michael Chandler and Pat Curran took there time answering questions, and working out. Chandler even admitted to appreciating the added attention “The fact that  you guys want to take pictures of me, still gets me!” Chandler humbly said. “Its something athletes take for granted.” 

Also present were Mike ‘The Joker’ Guymon, featherweight contender Patricio Pitbull Friere, lightweight title challenger and Rick Hawn.

Interviews will be up soon!

Gallery:

DSC_2558 DSC_2454 DSC_2446 DSC_2417 DSC_2298

Mike 'Joker' Guymon checking in.

Mike ‘Joker’ Guymon checking in.

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