Karen Darabedyan | THE CLINCH REPORT

Posts Tagged ‘Karen Darabedyan’

‘The Spartan’ Punctuates UFC Tryout with a Highlight Reel KO at RFA 38

Posted: June 7, 2016 in Combat Sports, UFC
Tags: #FightPass, Blackhouse MMA, Christos Giagos, Dana White, Finding A Fight, Karen Darabedyan, MMA, Resurrection Fighting Alliance, RFA 38, Sean Shelby, Systems Training Center, UFC, UFC Fight Pass

Seizing the day, The Spartan Delivers

“Seize the day, put no trust in the morrow!”- Horace

By: Jonathan M. King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

Going into his fight with Karen Darabedyan at RFA 38, Christos Giagos appeared as as calm as the day is long. Waiting for his walkout music, he patiently paced back and forth, pausing for a moment to acknowledge a few fans in the crowd. He didn’t seem concerned in the least, instead the young fighter appeared oddly at peace. Almost tranquil, it appeared as if the Spartan already knew the outcome. For the day was at hand, and Giagos appeared as if he didn’t have a care in the world.

Did he know that this was perhaps the most important fight of career? He had to know that Dana White, his former boss, was in the building filming ‘Looking for a Fight’, (a show that showcases White’s search for emerging talent that airs on the UFC network Fight Pass). If not he was certainly aware of the danger before him.

His opponent Karen Darabedyan is one of the fiercest grapplers in the division. If you make a mistake against him, you can loose an arm, a leg, or end up asleep looking up at the lights wondering what the hell just happened. However as soon as the fight started it became clear The Spartan’s calm almost ‘laissez-faire’ approach was the result of proper preparation.

As Darabedyan bounced in and out Giagos countered with a crisp jab, cross combination that sharply snapped the head of Darabedyan back. A few moments later, after eating a sharp jab from Giagos, Darabedyan charged in looking to engage in a fire fight, but instead walked into a three punch combination from Giagos that clipped his chin, sending him to the canvas. A few ground and pound strikes later and Giagos finally came to life.

Running towards the cage, ‘The Spartan’ ran a flip off the cage, and then began screaming with all his might, for the first time all night he appeared uncomfortable. He didn’t know what to do. For months, this moment was all that was on his mind. Now having seized the moment, the raw emotion simply took over.

The fight ended up producing one hell of a MMA equation. The fashion of the victory, multiplied by the caliber of the opponent equaled UFC President Dana White saying ” This last kid was in the UFC, and tonight he looked like he should be back in the UFC.” (interview with Ron Kruck on Inside MMA). How about that for some MMA math?

Where Giagos fights next remains to be seen, however he has certainly proved he belongs in the UFC. In his first run with the promotion, Giagos compiled a 1-2 record, with the win splitting the losses. When he was cut, it seemed odd, as he had not lost consecutive bouts, and the last loss to Chris Wade ended up being an extremely entertaining fight.

Not only was Dana White impressed with his performance but UFC matchmaker Sean Shelby was in the building as well and appeared extremely interested as well. So it appears all the stars are lining up for The Spartan’s return to the UFC. However making it to the UFC is one thing, but staying there is a completely different animal. If Giagos hopes to remain, he will have to continue to conquer each day, as if it is his last.

All photos and content are owned by The Clinch Report, LLC. Any unauthorized use is strictly prohibited. Email news@theclinchreport.com for licensing.

: A Spartan at Peace the moment before war!

: Running Flip

: Riding The Cage back to the UFC

: The Realization

Karen Darabedyan Makes A Huge Statement with Win Over Joe Condon

Posted: April 25, 2016 in Combat Sports, UFC
Tags: #1915, 101 years, Armenian Genocide, Bash Boxing, CXF, Gokor Chivichyan, Gold Rush, Hayastan MMA, Joe Condon, Joe Stevenson's Cobra Kai, Karen Darabedyan, Lights Out Promotions, MMA, Team Hayastan

By: Jonathan M King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

California Xtreme Fighting: Gold Rush Set To Crown Inaugural Champions

Posted: April 13, 2016 in Combat Sports, UFC
Tags: Akkim Lee, Alfred Kashakyan, Andrew Natividad, Angel Oliveras, Armen Bakanyan, Bash Boxing, California Xtreme Fighting, Cody Bollinger, Craig Plaskett, CXF, Daniel McWilliams, Defiant MMA, Derion Chapman, Dmitri Gerasimov, Georgie Garcia, Glendale Fighting Club, Gokor Chivichyan, Gooch Training Academy, Hayastan MMA, Jay Bogan, Joe Condon, Joe Stevenson, Jordan Isordia, Joshua Jones, Karen Darabedyan, Lights Out Promotions, Marlen Magee, Matthew Spencer, MMA, Moses Murrieta, Pugilpix.com, Rob Gooch, Saeksons Muay Thai, Systems Training Center, Terrion 'Flash' Ware, The Clinch Report, Tigran Grigoryan, UFC

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. 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 to 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 could be a back and forth war that produces a magical finish.

Armen Bakanyan (1-3-1 MMA) vs Dmitry Gerasimov (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 scored 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) 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) 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. However in his last 2 fights, he 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, Gooch 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) For The CXF 160lbs Championship

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, Darabedyan 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! This fight will not only product the CXF champion, the winner will also be arguably the best lightweight fighter in the state!

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

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

Posted: March 7, 2016 in Combat Sports, UFC
Tags: AJ Bryant, Andrii Vasylenko, Bash Boxing, Bobby Sanchez, Brad Robinson, Chase Gibson, Derion Chapman, Edgar Khachatryan, Erick Gonzalez, Gene Lebell, Idris Wasi, John Gendron, Josh Barnett, Joshua Jones, Karen Darabedyan, Keith Cutrone, Kyler Phillips, Lightsout Promotions, Matthew Spencer, Moses Murrieta, Pablo Sabori, Shohei Yamamoto, Tigran Grigoryan

By: Jonathan M King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted: March 3, 2016 in Combat Sports, UFC
Tags: AJ Bryant, Andrii Vasylenko, Bobby Sanchez, Brad Robinson, California Xtreme Fighting, Chase Gibson, CXF, Derion Chapman, Edgar Khachatryan, Erick Gonzalez, Idris Wasi, John Gendron, Joshua Jones, Karen Darabedyan, Keith Cutrone, Kyler Phillips, Matthew Spencer, Moses Murrieta, Pablo Sabori, Shohei Yamamoto, Taylor Alfaro, The Return, Tigran Grigoryan

Main Event: Sabori vs Darabedyan

By: Jonathan M. King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

California Xtreme Fighting: The Return

The Sportsmen Lodge, Studio City California

Weigh Ins

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

: Pablo ‘El Gallo Negro’ Sabori

: Karen Darabedyan

: Main Event: Sabori vs Darabedyan

: Chase Gibson

: AJ Bryant

: Bryant vs Gibson

: Moses Murrieta

: John Gendron

: Spencer vs Wasi

: Taylor Alfaro

: Kyler Phillips

: Jones vs Grigoryan

: Robinson vs Vasylenko

: Erick Gonzalez

: Yamamoto vs Gonzalez

: Yamamoto vs Gonzalez

: Cutrone vs Khachatryan

: Chapman vs Sanchez

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

Posted: March 3, 2016 in Combat Sports, UFC
Tags: AJ Bryant, Andrii Vasylenko, Anthony Johnson, Bash Boxing, Bellator MMA, Bobby Sanchez, Brad Robinson, Chase Gibson, Derion Chapman, Erick Gonzalez, Jonathan Quiroz, Joshua Jones, Karen Darabedyan, leon, Leon Shahbazian, Lights Out Promtions, MMA, Moses Murrieta, Pablo Sabori, Shohei Yamamoto, Studio City, Taylor Alfaro, Tigran Grigoryan, UFC

By Jonathan M. King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

Photos By: Bob Fisher Pugilpix.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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