Posts Tagged ‘Systems Training Center’

Terrion Ware and Chase Gibson Become CXF Champions as Mike Jasper Defends his Crown at CXF 7: Locked and Loaded

Posted: May 1, 2017 in Combat Sports, UFC
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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 Instagram to keep track of all the latest details. For ticket information to future events check out www.mmatixx.com.

 

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

Posted: June 7, 2016 in Combat Sports, UFC
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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. 

 

Ware vs Gooch: A Fight A Year in The Making Delivers Big!

Posted: April 23, 2016 in Combat Sports, UFC
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By: Jonathan King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

Hype can be a fickle word in the fight business. Often it ends up being hyperbole, rarely delivering on a quarter of the expectation. Going into last nights event California Xtreme Fighting’s ‘Gold Rush’ event the hype behind the Terrion Ware vs Rob Gooch fight had built for so long, it was literally overflowing. Rarely do these bouts every live up to expectations. In this case, the fight exceeded the lofty expectations and ended up being one of the most entertaining bouts of the year.

To understand the genesis of this fight, you have to cast back to almost a year ago. Under another promotion this fight was booked as a main event. All of the media jumped on the bandwagon of a fight that could produce a future UFC star. However a staph infection hospitalized Gooch leaving the fight in limbo. Months went by Gooch healed; Ware kept training and again the fight was booked. Cursed, once again the fight ended up on the scrap heap. The promotion was forced to cancel the event due to injuries, and again both fighters were left all dressed up with no place to go. However this time the cancellation coincided with the ‘Gold Rush’ event, and after reaching an agreement the bout was again signed. The featured scrap would also produce the number one contender for the CXF Bantamweight Title.

So finally after a year of waiting, both fighters were healthy on weight, and the bout was set. Once the cage door closed the the excuses and the hype quickly faded. The anticipation became a violent reality that lived up to the billing. For three rounds Rob Gooch and Terrion Ware danced. For 15 minutes they engaged in a bloody tango that had the crowd on their feet the entire time.

The back and forth first round was closely contested, with Ware scoring more effectively in the stand up department, however a takedown from Gooch was able to give him dominate position for a good chunk of time. Once back up, Ware began landing with counter right hands, that inspired a mouse under the eye of his surging opponent.

In the second round, Ware continued to loosen up with his hands catching Gooch several times that buckled his knees. However Gooch refused to break, instead he coiled like a rattlesnake before springing back to life with punches that testified to his resolve. The first of these surges, rocked Ware with an uppercut. However the offensive production just wasn’t on a par for Gooch. As the fight progressed, Ware continued to pile up points, landing two or three times at a time with combinations that were answered back with singular shots. Towards the middle of the final round, Gooch’s eye began to swell shut as Ware tactfully pieced him apart with counter right hands. Ware hit him with everything but the kitchen sink, yet Gooch remained standing.

Ware cruised to a one sided decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-26) however the score does not exact the contest any justice. The fight itself was one of the most entertaining bouts of the year. In victory the Terrion Ware remains on the cusp of the big show. He continues to evolve as a fighter and this win certainly puts him on a short list of UFC hopefuls in the 135 lbs division. Rob Gooch ends up with a loss on the score sheets, but his stock continues to rise. The heart, fire and desire this guy displayed is certain to carry him past the loss. Simply put people with that kind of fortitude never stay down long.

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
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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. 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!

 

Spar Star MMA To Host SoCal’s Regional C.A.M.O Sanctioned State Semi Final Tournament

Posted: September 16, 2015 in Combat Sports, UFC
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By: Jonathan M. King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

Photos By: Bob Fish Pugilpix.com

Spar Star MMA has been recognized by the C.A.M.O (California Amateur Mixed Martial Arts Organization) along with California Fight League (CFL) to host the Southern California Regional Tournament. On Oct 3rd, Spar Star MMA will host the regional finals in the Heavyweight, Welterweight, Bantamweight, and Flyweight divisions.  The winners of these bouts, will move on to the finals where eventually a State Champion will be crowned, but wait there is more!

In the Southern California Heavyweight Finals Spar Star MMA Champion Jose Lopez (5-0 CAMO) will take on Sau Tafao (2-1 CAMO). The winner will move on to the finals for the State Championship, but they will also walk away with the Spar Star MMA Heavyweight Title.  Both fighters will be primed and ready for certain, as there is more than just bragging rights on the line.

In a highly anticipated rematch Sergio Marroquin (5-3-0-1 CAMO) will take on Santiago Diaz (3-2 CAMO). In their first go around, Diaz was able to survive an early knockdown to out point a tiring Marroquin who came in on short notice. Now with both contestants properly prepared, this fight should end up being everything the first round was last time. The winner will become the Spar Star MMA #1 Contender for the Heavyweight title.

Defiants MMA’s Adrian Gonzalez (4-0 CAMO) will take on Dog Pound MMA‘s Carlos Chavez (3-0 CAMO) in a welterweight contest that will determine the Southern California Champion and will advance to the finals in the state wide tournament. The winner of the bout will also advance to the finals for the vacant Spar Star MMA 170 lbs Title.

Due to an injury Lonnie Huey still awaits his opponent in the 135 lbs division. However the winner will be crowned the Southern California champion, and will advance to the state finals in the CAMO sanctioned tournament. The opportunity is certain to bring out the best in whoever takes advantage!

In the featherweight division Systems Training Center‘s Rocky Morales (5-0 CAMO) will throw down with Sityodtong LA’s Gilbert Nakatani (2-1 CAMO) in a donnybrook that has duel title implications. The winner will not only advance to the state finals, but they will do so as the Spar Star MMA Champion. Neither fighter has 

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The card will also feature the Spar Star MMA 145 lbs Title fight between Leo Imai and Roman Puga. Both are Spar Star MMA fan favorites fighting out of local camps; Imai out of Robot Fight and Fitness in Santa Monica, while Puga is a student of the late-great Joe Camacho and Mihai Valeriu at MMAFC. Both fighters earned their way to this point winning their respective brackets in the first ever Spar Star tournament. Whoever wins, one thing is guaranteed Spar Star MMA is certain to have a shining example at the top of the 145 lbs division!

 

Both Spar Star MMA and CFL have a long history of putting together competitive fight cards that have produced some of the states finest young talent in recent years. Promotions like their deserve accolades especially since so many of late have been stealing the headlines in a bad way. Its refreshing when you look at the current state of chaos and realize its already a thing of the past.

 

Previous Spar Star Events:

 

Erick Gonzalez Wins Again Without Seeing The Second Round!

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

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

Photos By: Bob Fisher Pugilpix.com

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

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

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

Spar Star MMA: The Evolution Continues As A Piece Of History Slowly Disappears

Posted: March 25, 2015 in Combat Sports, UFC
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By: Jonathan M. King

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

Bob Fisher PugilPix.com

Maybe its not the Coliseum in Rome, or even the Forum across the parking lot but there is something epic about the Hollywood Park Race way and Casino. In its hey day the venue was a crown jewel of the elite, and the regular stomping grounds of the famed ‘Rat Pack’. The halls echo with memories, but what haunts me is the specter of whats to come.  The last race went off a little over a year ago, however the venue has stayed active in many ways.

For years the Casino and Racetrack have been the home base of Spar Star MMA. Like the Coliseum in Rome, gladiators made their bones here. Like the Forum across the street, Champions were made here! Soon it will all be just  a memory. Slowly piece by piece, the buildings add to the memories as they disappear, but until then the fists will fly.

March 28th will be our second to last show at this venue. If you have never been to a Spar Star Event, ask someone who has and you will find out quickly what you are missing. With only to shows left, the matchmaker and promoter are planning to go out with bang, so make sure you get tickets.

The Saturday show will feature the return of Spar Star MMA 135lbs Champion Farren Romero. Romero will put her belt on the line against fellow undefeated prospect Paola Ramirez. The co main event is equally exciting featuring Spar Star fan favorites Leo Imai and Jonell Kimbrough who will clash in a 145 lbs battle. Also featured on the main card: Mark Perez is scheduled to take on the always entertaining Ronnie Mugica, and Cody Halleman will square off with Antonio Vazquez.

Tickets May Still be Available Contact one of the Fighters on the Card!

Also Scheduled Are:

Chris Hansen vs Javel McKenzie

Christopher Giddens vs. Carlos Chavez

Carlos Ojeda vs. Santiago Diaz

Julian Capucetti vs. Michael Reyes

Victor Hernandez vs. Victor Pages

Eugene Cacho vs Michael Braun

Daniel Yeh vs. Wilbur Gonzalez

Rogelio Juan vs. Justin Morgan

Victor Rivera vs. Patrick Fernandez

Avedis Terzian vs. Jose Lopez

David Lopez vs. Jesse Ehrlich

James Pace vs. Trey Branch

 

Below find our gallery of Spar Star MMA’s Past. Photos courtesy of John Walsh The Clinch Report and Bob Fisher Pugilpix

Jay Bogan Battles Flu On His Way To A Big TKO Win

Posted: February 21, 2015 in Combat Sports, UFC
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By: Jonathan M. King

Photos By: Blanca Garcia

Jay Bogan (5-4 MMA) looked outstanding in his fight against Jared Carlsten(3-2 MMA).  Bogan whose career has been surging of late never let Carlsten get comfortable. Although he was giving up a significant reach advantage, Bogan was able to control not only the distance but the pace of the fight as well. Frustrating his opponent.

Once the fight found its way to the mat Bogan was able to maintain position utilizing his wrestling and heavy top pressure. Carlsten tried to buck free, but Bogan ended up mounting him after sliding his knee over the belly. Shortly after Bogan slid to high mount, eliminating Carlsten’s hips and began reigning down with punches. After tasting a few shots, Carlsten turned away and covered up before the referee stepped in saving him from further assault.

Bogan like many other fighters was not feeling very well leading up to the event. Just getting over the flu, Bogan was still able to muster the resolve to not only step up but he performed tremendously in spite of the illness.  Now north of .500 for the first time in a long time, look for Bogan to fight again relatively soon. His current win streak coupled with his near flawless victory have him primed for a big show.

His wrestling pedigree, and high profile camp could have him on a short lost of injury replacements for the big shows.

 

DQ Costs Levon Sargsyan, But Gets Henderson Off “The Schneid”!

Posted: February 21, 2015 in Combat Sports, UFC
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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

RFA 21: The Mixed Martial Arts Measuring Stick

Posted: December 8, 2014 in Combat Sports, UFC
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RFA 12.5-48

By: Jonathan M King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

Resurrection Fighting Alliance returned to the Southern Californian landscape with an evening of combat at the OC Hangar in Costa Mesa. The night featured some of the regions top young talent, as well as a good mix of savvy veterans who are hungry to return to prominence. With the vacant lightweight title on the line (vacated by Christos Giagos when he was signed by the UFC), Mehdi Baghdad (11-3 MMA, 1-0 RFA) took on Zach Juusola (10-3 MMA) in evenings main event.

Juusola looked to keep the fight grounded and out of the range of Baghdad’s strikes and did so for the better part of four rounds. However halfway through the fourth round Baghdad unleashed an I.Q. changing elbow that split Juusola apart, before dropping him to his knees. Juusola had just recovered from a low blow. After being given some time to recover, he indicated he was ready to go. The elbow came almost instantly, as did the stoppage.

The win places Baghdad in a good position. If he is signed by the UFC he will join Giagos, Kevin Casey, Brian Ortega, and Alan Jouban as former RFA champions currently employed by the industry leader. However it wouldn’t be surprising to Scott Coker courting him as well.

With Viacom committed, Bellator MMA could be the perfect fit for Baghdad. There he would be able to make good money, in a division with much less clutter. Currently the UFC roster is bloated with over 100 lightweights, whereas Bellator currently only has 27. With the UFC uniform concept yet to be proven profitable, it may make sense to look elsewhere.

In the co-main event fan favorite Joe Murphy (8-1 MMA, 1-0 RFA) starched Brazilian Bruno Frazatto (6-2 MMA, 1-1 RFA) with a dizzying array of strikes, that saw the grappling expert in the fetal position trying to cover up as the referee stopped the fight. Murphy landed with a short lead uppercut that caught Frazatto on the tip of the chin, felling him early in the first round. Much to the delight of the crowd who came complete with signs and t-shirts in support of the Cleber Jiu Jitsu fighter. The win may be enough for Murphy to maneuver himself for a shot at a title.

Chase Gormely (11-4 MMA, 1-0 RF) also cruised to a unanimous decision win over Dale Sopi (6-1 MMA) in a battle of heavyweights. Gormely looking to make his way back to the UFC handed Sopi the first loss of his career. Both fighters appeared to tire after the first frame, but Gormely was able to impose his will on Sopi, consistently taking him to the mat. The win keeps Gormely on track to get back to the UFC ranks.

Francisco France (11-3-1 MMA) made short work of veteran Mikey Gomez (17-11 MMA) winning their fight in the very first round by technical submission. France dropped Gomez with big shot to the top of the head. Once on the mat, a dazed Gomez was unable to prevent France from getting to side control, where the arm in choke put Gomez to sleep. The win may have moved France into title contention.

RFA continues to get better with each show. The main reason for that growth is the talent level they attract! Promoter Ed Soares and his team have created a viable promotion that primarily acts as the bar for the larger organizations. If you can win a title within the RFA organization, chances are you will do very well in the big show. If not, well then this is the measuring stick you need to gauge yourself against. Everyone wants to be in the UFC. First ask yourself if you can make it too RFA!

 

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