Posts Tagged ‘Glendale Fighting Club’

By: Jonathan M. King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

Edited By: Bob Fisher Pugilpix.com

The Sportsmen’s Lodge was once again the scene of the crime, as Lights Out Promotions and Bash Entertainment once again put together an amazing card of fights, as California Xtreme Fighting continued it’s running streak of standing room only shows. Currently the only pro mixed martial arts show in the San Fernando Valley, CXF 7 featured three title fights that sat atop one of the most entertaining under card in recent memory.

Taylor Alfaro (1-1) defeated Milton Arguello (0-1) via unanimous decision 135lbs

Setting the tone for the evening with an extremely exciting fight, Taylor Alfaro and Milton Arguello wasted very little time engaging each other almost as soon as the bell sounded. It appeared Arguellos strategy was to stay at range and land with his heavy kicks to the body of Alfaro. However Alfaro proved to be on to the plan, catching multiple kicks before countering with straight punches. The standing exchanges were quite even, but it was the ground attack of Alfaro that swayed the fight in his direction. Consistently able to bring the fight to the mat, Alfaro methodically and effectively wore away his opponent and the clock, cruising to a unanimous decision victory.

Edmen Shahbazian (2-0) defeated Dearmie Street (0-1) via TKO 3:16 Rd 1 185lbs

Picking up where the first fight left off, middleweights Edmen Shahbazian and Dearmie Street also came out throwing heavy leather, and after an early back and forth exchange the fight found its way to the mat, where Street was able to transition out of a few very dangerous arm bar attempts from Shahbazian. Once they both were standing, again they traded punches with Shahbazian clearly taking control. Late in the first round a quick combination forced Street to the mat. Smelling blood in the water Shahbazian swarmed and forced referee Mike Bell to call a halt to bout, after some IQ changing ground and pound.

Mike Jasper (12-4) defeated Jonathan Rivera (4-2) via TKO 4:57 Rd 3 170lbs CXF Welterweight Title Fight

Defending his title for the first time, CXF welterweight champion Mike Jasper came into the event looking to add legitimacy to his strap. However early on his opponent Jonathan Rivera quickly gained control with a surprisingly effective ground based attack. Once on the mat Rivera transitioned to the back of Jasper and looked to steal the title with a rear naked choke, but Jasper defended and was able to even turn the tables in the next round by taking Rivera down. However, unlike Rivera, Jasper selected to strike in the dominant position, softening up the challenger for a majority of the round. In the third round, the roundabout continued as Rivera again was able to gain top position before transitioning to the back of Jasper. Looking for the submission at one point, Rivera torqued Jasper’s leg like a banana split, but Jasper was able to escape the hold, and wound up on top. With seconds to go, Rivera again attempted a submission, this time a leg lock, but again Jasper was able to get free. Once out of the hold, the champion uncorked a barrage of strikes that rocked Rivera in the waining moments prompting the referee to stop the bout at 4:57 of the final round. Although he was able to defend his title, Jasper was injured in the final moments of the fight, apparently tearing his hamstring.

Chris Saunders (16-8) defeated Derion “DC” Chapman (4-7) via Unanimous Decision 155lbs

In the next bout Derion Chapman moved up in weight to take on perhaps his biggest challenge yet, in the form of UFC veteran Chris Saunders. For Saunders, this marked his first bout in over a year, but both proved extremely prepared as the early exchanges quickly had the crowd on their feet. In the second round Saunders looked to implement his jiujitsu pedigree, and almost had a guillotine before Chapman freed his head and got back to his feet. The third round was equally entertaining, as the two continued their tango, before Saunders again brought the fight to the mat. Once there, Saunders was able to control his opponent for most of the round. The effort was enough to convince the judges that Saunders was the winner, much to the chagrin of many of those in attendance.

Gabriel Green (4-2) defeated Matt Hagge (7-6) via Submission (rear-naked choke) 3:20 Rd 1 Catchweight 166 lbs

Former Bellator MMA veteran Gabriel Green was looking to make an impressive statement in his CXF promotional debut, and he certainly did deliver. After an early exchange between the two, Hagge quickly brought the fight to mat however Green quickly swept him, and took his back. Locking in the body lock, Green began setting up the choke with some punches to the side of his opponents head. While defending, Hagge for a moment exposed his neck, and Green quickly locked up the choke inspiring the tap at 3:20 of the very first round

Chase Gibson (5-2) defeated Sergei Minasyan (7-10) via Unanimous Decision 145lbs CXF Featherweight Title Fight

In the co-main event of the evening, Chase Gibson and Sergei Minasyan faced off in a very evenly matched three round war. In the first round, the fighters seemed content to stand and trade, with both fighters having their moments. In the second frame, Chase Gibson began to secure opinions, relying on his ground game to neutralize Minasyan on the mat. However, Minasyan was able to survive the onslaught. Halfway through a pretty even third round, Gibson again found his opponents back after Minasyan moved away from the clinch. Again Gibson was able to bring the fight horizontal, and although he was unable to find the finish, his control on the ground proved dominant, and the judges awarded him the fight and the vacant CXF featherweight title.

Terrion ‘Flash’ Ware (17-4) defeated Jared ‘The Jackhammer’ Papazian (21-13) via KO :20 Rd 3 135 lbs CXF Bantamweight Title Fight

In the third installment of one of southern California’s most memorable trilogies, Terrion Ware and Jared Papazian went face to face in the CXF cage in the main event, to settle their three-fight vendetta once and for all! With the vacant bantamweight title on the line, the fierce rivals met in the center of the cage, and immediately they picked up where they had left off. Both fighters landed nasty shots in the first round however, a late combination from Ware staggered Papazian as the round came to an end. In the second round, Papazian still hurt, showcased his tremendous heart looking to trade with Ware again. Utilizing his speed, Ware moved effectively in and out of range, surgically picking a slowing Papazian apart. Between rounds an exhausted Papazian could hardly sit on his stool, collapsing to the mat. However he refused to quit, answering the bell for the third and final round. However it was only a matter of time. Ware immediately pounced, and again rocked Papazian, felling him face first for the KO victory. The win earns Ware not only the bragging rights in the grudge match with Papazian, and the CXF title, it also almost certainly assures Ware of his long awaited chance to fight for the UFC.

Richard Leroy (4-0) defeated Marlen Magee (4-5) via Submission (rear-naked choke) 3:11 Rd 1 Catchweight 162 lbs

Returning to action after over a year off due to injuries, Richard Leroy looked better than ever, dominating his opponent in route to a first round submission victory. After dominating the standing exchanges, Leroy quickly took Marlen Magee down out of the clinch and immediately asserted himself from the top position with some nasty ground and pound. The relentless assault forced Magee to give up his back where Leroy swiftly threaded the choke and secured the tap, and the victory.

California Xtreme Fighting continues to grow, and the next event is scheduled for June 17th 2017. Make sure you follow CXF on InstagramΒ to keep track of all the latest details. For ticket information to future events check out www.mmatixx.com.

 

The Beginning of the End

The Beginning of the End

By: Jonathan M. King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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By: Jonathan M. King The Clinch Report

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

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

Preliminary Card:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Main Card:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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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. Β 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-drowningΒ 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 alreadyΒ have the answers for!

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

 

 

 

 

Fight Night LO 3.15-8

500 MG of Ambien in the form of a Kashakyan right hand!

 

By: Jonathan M. King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

Photos By: Bob Fisher Pugilpix.com

‘Fearless’ is not just a cool moniker for Alfred Khashakyan, it serves as an accurate description, and perhaps a warning. Although second to enter the cage he immediately took possession when he approached his opponent Vitor Oristanio and defiantlyΒ slammed his feet into the mat. A day earlier, Oristanio’s lack of respect boiled over when he shoved Khashakyan during weigh ins and now the time had come to pay for that mistake.

At the opening bell, Khashakyan immediately took to the center of the cage and his heavy hands once again made a mess of his opponent. Oristanio did his best to quell the advances, even cutting Khashakyan above the brow. However the effort was akin to trying to stop an elephant with a feather. Khashakyan bulldozed Oristanio dropping him early in the first round. What followed was one of the most impressive ground and pound finishes of the year. Once he felled his foe, Khashakyan dropped the hammer.

OristanioΒ may have retained some senses at first, but the first punch on the ground removed them quickly. The second shot, was purely academic and relocatedΒ Oristanio’s consciousness from ‘queer street’ to ‘dream land’!Β The finish was so violent that Oristanio needed to be transported from the cage to the hospital. Before leaving the young warrior gave the thumbs up to the crowd to let everyone know he was going to be alright.

For Khashakyan is just seems to be a matter of time before he gets the call from the UFC. The ideaΒ makes sense. HeΒ is the type of fighter the 135 lbs division needs. An exciting striker with excellent defensive wrestling, Khashakyan would mimic the skills of those at the top of the division. Currently riding 4 fight knock out streak, he could be one fight or a poorly timed injury away (he would be an excellent injury replacement) from fighting on the big stage.

Gallery will continue to be updated!






Video and Editing By: Bob Fisher Pugilpix.com

By: Jonathan M. King

Alfred Kashakyan (3-1 MMA) is quickly becoming the worst kept secret in mixed martial arts. He will be anyway if he can keep his KO streak going. Kashakyan trains at the world famous Glendale Fighting Club under the watchful eye of Edmund Tarverdyan. Β Training in a pool of sharks has prepared Kashakyan to fight on the grandest stage. However, his vision has not distorted the task at hand. Going into the most important fight of his life, Kashakyan seems to be on a rail. A rail that may make one or two more stops before ending up in the UFC!

With a well rounded pedigree, Kashakyan is an educated fighter wherever the scrap takes place. His strength as a striker is complimented by a very solid wrestling base that allow him to keep the fight where he wants it to be! Coaches and training partners are able to keep him honest in all areas, creating a hybrid fighter that literally has the ability toΒ game-planΒ on the fly, making him very dangerous for any opponent.

Looking to knock him down is aΒ Brazilian challenger named Vitor Oristanio (1-2). Oristanio a striker trains out of Blackhouse MMA and his K-1 level kickboxing could present a challenge for Kashakyan who also prefers to stand. However don’t be surprised if ‘Fearless’ Alfred parlays a take down into a ground and pound scenario. His wrestling back-round certainly makes that an option. However the knockout is always the ultimate goal! “I want to keep my KO streak going!” Kashakyan said.

Kashakyan vs. Oristanio will be the Co Main Event at ‘Fight Night 2’ at the Sportsmen’s Lodge in Studio City. Tickets may still be available at http://www.valleyfightnight.com

*Special Thank You to fighters Glendale Fighting Club

Video and Editing By: Bob Fisher Pugilpix.com

By: Jonathan M. King

Alfred Kashakyan (3-1 MMA) is quickly becoming the worst kept secret in mixed martial arts. He will be anyway if he can keep his KO streak going. Kashakyan trains at the world famous Glendale Fighting Club under the watchful eye of Edmund Tarverdyan. Β Training in a pool of sharks has prepared Kashakyan to fight on the grandest stage. However, his vision has not distorted the task at hand. Going into the most important fight of his life, Kashakyan seems to be on a rail. A rail that may make one or two more stops before ending up in the UFC!

With a well rounded pedigree, Kashakyan is an educated fighter wherever the scrap takes place. His strength as a striker is complimented by a very solid wrestling base that allow him to keep the fight where he wants it to be! Coaches and training partners are able to keep him honest in all areas, creating a hybrid fighter that literally has the ability toΒ game-planΒ on the fly, making him very dangerous for any opponent.

Looking to knock him down is aΒ Brazilian challenger named Vitor Oristanio (1-2). Oristanio a striker trains out of Blackhouse MMA and his K-1 level kickboxing could present a challenge for Kashakyan who also prefers to stand. However don’t be surprised if ‘Fearless’ Alfred parlays a take down into a ground and pound scenario. His wrestling back-round certainly makes that an option. However the knockout is always the ultimate goal! “I want to keep my KO streak going!” Kashakyan said.

Kashakyan vs. Oristanio will be the Co Main Event at ‘Fight Night 2’ at the Sportsmen’s Lodge in Studio City. Tickets may still be available at http://www.valleyfightnight.com

*Special Thank You to fighters Glendale Fighting Club

The Golden Girl Delivers

The Golden Girl Delivers

By: Jonathan M. King

Photos By: Blanca Garcia

Jemyma Betrian entered the fight only her second as a mixed martial artist. However that number is not a reflection of her experience. Betrian transitioned to the sport after dominating for years as a kickboxer. Now training with Ronda Rousey, Marina Shafir, Jessamyn Duke, and Shayna Baszler the Golden Girl is getting a crash course in mixed martial arts from some of the best in the sport.

Across the ring from Betrian stood Chandra Engel (0-2 MMA). Engel accepted the bout on short notice and did her best to face the juggernaut before her, even threatening with a submission after taking Betrian down. However she was just outmatched. Β Betrian’s pedigree came through, and despite a fever and the flu, The Golden Girl completed the task at hand.

Even after Engel achieved the take down, Betrian quickly scrambled from the bottom attempting an arm bar, that eventually allowed her back to a neutral position. Perhaps the take down shook something loose, because once Betrian got back to her feet the she never let off the gas.

Late in the first round Betrian began to swarm as Engel cornered herself. With amazing power and speed Betrian changed levels and landed to the body of Engel. As Engel reeled from the shot, almost doubling over, Betrian uncorked an ungodly head kick that landed flush to Engels nose inspiring a gushing leak.Β Immediately Engel fell backwards prompting the referee to stop any further damage.

The win keeps Betrian a perfect 2-0 as a professional and leaves her on a short list of future UFC Strawweights. Already the most educated striker in her divison, it would not be surprising to see her sign with the UFC immediately.








 

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By: Jonathan M. King

Photos By: Blanca Garcia

Glendale Fighting Club is of course well known for being the gym whereΒ UFC Bantamweight Champion Ronda Rousey plies her trade under the careful tutelage of Coach Edmund Tarverdyan, The Gym is also the home of some other well known UFC fighters. However their young pros maybe one of the best kept secrets in MMA.

One of those young fighters is Alfred Kashakian (3-1 MMA). Kashakian carried his two fight win streak into Friday nights engagement against David Hernandez. Apparently Kashakian had other pressing engagements, because he didn’t waste anytime. Charging across the ring he attacked at the opening bell, and immediately had Hernandez reeling.

Hernandez did his best to stand and trade with Kashakian but fell like an oak tree when his button was pressed. Kashakian dropped Hernandez with a series of shots, that just made gravity impossible to resist. Immediately the referee stepped in calling a halt to the bout, as Hernandez was lying face first. The impressive KO electrified the crowd, and set the tone for the rest of the evening!

The win puts Kashakian on the radar as a top prospect in his division, adding another polished stone to the cadre they are collecting in Glendale!

For more information about these events, contact: Lights Out Promotions or Bash Boxing

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By: Jonathan M. King The Clinch Report

Photos By: Blanca Garcia

At 0-1 as a pro some were concerned that Levon Sargsyan was heading into deep water against the former Bellator MMA Fighter Ron Henderson (3-2 MMA). Those concerns were put too rest almost immediately. Sargsyan utilized a vast array of strikes including a spinning heel kick to the face at the opening bell. Henderson was forced on his bicycle from the start, as Sargsyan pushed forward establishing the pace.

Henderson was able to get the fight to the mat, however Sargsyan reversed position and landed an illegal knee that hurt Henderson. Veteran referee Mike Bell quickly intervened issuing a 2-point foul (illegal strike with injury). After alerting the judges of the score change, both fighters restarted and although Sargsyan was clearly winning, the foul now made the fight closer on the cards then it was in reality.

Once the fight resumed, The Glendale Fighting Club product immediately resumed his battering. Henderson still rocked from earlier, dove in for a take-down but ended up on his back. Sargsyan broke free to his feet, and unleashed a head kick that caught Henderson while he was still on the ground.

After a moment of judgement, referee Mike Bell waved off the fight as he stood over the supine Henderson. Although there appeared to be no intention behind the strike, Sargsyan was rightfully disqualified and Ron Henderson was awarded with the win in a rather odd finish. The win ends a two fight losing streak for Henderson, while Sargsyan continues to seek out his first win as a pro.

For more information about these events, contact: Lights Out Promotions or Bash Boxing