Posts Tagged ‘UFC’

Past, Present, and Future The Supernova From Moldova Marina Shafir

Posted: July 18, 2014 in Combat Sports, UFC
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Marina Shafir

Marina Shafir

By: Jonathan M. King The Clinch Report

All Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

The Past:

Pedigree can only carry you so far. God given ability without a champions work ethic may get you to the dance, but it certainly is not enough to ensure your tenure at the top. Becoming the best is one thing remaining there however, is a completely different animal. One only tamed by embracing the grind that accompanies everyday training. Champions live, they don’t simply exist. They are fueled by a different fire, cut from a different cloth. Sacrifice their only constant, and pain their only guarantee.

For Marina Shafir, that sacrifice began long ago. As a world class Judoka, Shafir cut her teeth competing against some of the best judo players in the game. Along the way becoming very close friends (“sweat sisters”), with UFC Champion Ronda Rousey. Together they trained to become the best, along the way forming a bond that would continue as Ronda transitioned from Judo to MMA.

“I have seen her transition from an athlete to a machine” Shafir said. “We used to eat peanut butter whole wheat bagels, because that was all we could afford. Now each meal is planned and only the finest fruits and ingredients! Its overwhelming to think about how much she has evolved to become this champion!” Shafir said.

The gulf between hype, and champion is wide. The chasm is filled with the crushed potential of pretenders who although once promising,dared to contend. Proper preparation is the only way across this divide. Still, there is no guarantee. Walking the tightrope of expectation can be a daunting task even for the most confident.

However for Shafir the motivation is simple. She fights for her brothers, she fights for her mother’s brutal honesty. She fights for the gym in Moldova her father opened to keep kids off the street. “I am my mom, I am my dad, I am made from them! I fight for them, for the last name they gave me. Not to make me something, but to make our name something.” Shafir said. 

In a world where prize fighters fight for, well…the prize, Shafir’s take offers a fresh breeze in a rather stale locker room full of hyperbole.

The Present:

The past is a majestic world filled with accomplishments, and stepping stones that have led to this moment. Unfortunately the present for Shafir is a cruel bitch named reality. Sure the reasoning is pure. Yes, her camp is sexy. But without the wins nobody cares. The great WWF manager Jimmy Hart was once asked why he dressed the way he did and he said, “The minute I dress like everyone else, I’ll have to sit with everyone else!”

And although not a wiry weasel with a megaphone, Shafir is not unlike Hart, at least for now. Until its her turn, she is perfectly content playing her part. As long as she is still on the players side of the fence. To stay there Shafir must simply do one thing, win!

Without the wins, the ends just won’t justify the means. Justification resumes August 10. On trial, will be Amanda Bell. At only 1-2 Bell would appear like fodder for the touted Shafir, however a close look at Bell’s amateur career reveals a glaring TKO win over Shafir’s teammate Jessamyn Duke. So, the plot thickens…well…a little anyway.Bell a well known grappler is a tough test for Shafir, however she is confident in all aspects of the game.

“If she wants to stand and bang, we can stand and bang. If she wants to grapple, well thats fine too we can grapple.” Shafir said. “I have been training very hard on my striking with Edmond Tarverdyan and would like to showcase it[my striking], but you have to see where the fight goes.”

Wise beyond her years, Shafir has a patience that allows her to enjoy the ride, without taking anything for granted. A ride she is extremely grateful to be on. “I really want to thank my coaches and training partners (Ronda Rousey, Shayna Baszler, Jessamyn Duke, and Jemyma Betrian), they all know who they are! My mom and dad, for making me, and George Bastmajyan for booking my fights.” Shafir said. “George goes out of his way for all the fighters, not just me. He is easy to fight for. I want to put on a good show for him!”

The Future:

Trusting in uncertainty is your best bet. At least it is when you are built fundamentally sound. Each building block serves as a stepping stone for the next. Each step rewarded with another waiting to be taken. The future is only a breathe away from the present, and moments from being in your past. Marina Shafir walks in some pretty big footprints, that carry high expectations. Unlike Rousey, Baszler and Duke, Shafir fights at 145 lbs. A weight class that doesn’t even exist in the UFC. However she believes its only a matter of time before it does. Maybe Shafir can serve as the defacto 145 lbs ambassador as Ronda did, to help usher in the new weight class. Maybe a stint in Invicta will be on the docket. Either way her patience and her surroundings never let the future blind her.

“I can never get lost in the shuffle, because of the people around me.” Shafir said. “You are the company you keep, and my company is pretty fucking cool!” Shafir said.

Wherever the future takes Marina Shafir, and whatever it holds for her, one can only make an educated guess. It may be here… It may be there.. However it will never be far from her past, and it will never be far from where she currently sits, whether on the brink or years past the break, Marina Shafir like her moniker claims, is a Supernova. The light from a distant burning star that can last long after the star itself fades.

It may not be set in stone, but it appears to be a ‘sure thing’, that in the sport of MMA Marina Shafir’s legacy will burn on, long after she is gone.

 

 

Marina Shafir trains at Glendale Fighting Club and is Sponsored by: Virus, Cucuone, Core Power

You can follow Marina Shafir on Social Media Here: Twitter, Facebook

All content is owned by The Clinch Report, LLC Registered with the State of Nevada. Any unauthorized use is prohibited. Contact us at news@theclinchreport.com for information regarding usage.

A Family System: Systems Training Center MMA’s Next Big Team

Posted: July 5, 2014 in Combat Sports, UFC
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By: Jonathan King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

You are a product of your environment. Where you come from has everything to do with who you are and who you become. The early stages, the developmental stage of life needs to be met with a family environment in order to thrive. For fighters this infintile juncture is also the most important. Often talent gets snuffed out before it has a chance to blossom because of confidence issues, gym egos, or lack of focus. Each fighters personality has to gel with the entire gym, otherwise cliques develop and factions arise.

At Systems, the team dynamic is the most important common theme. This is not a gym for individuals motivated by inflated egos.

The team concept is evident as soon as you enter the doors at Systems Training Center in Hawthorne, CA. During pro practice, the fighters children play nearby as daddies and mommies beat the holy hell out of each other. Although a cohesive unit, where everyone loves everyone, the old adage applies iron sharpens iron. With owner Marcus Kowal and coach Ian Harris leading the charge, Systems has several fighters on the verge of making it to the big show, and a few who are already fighting in big shows.

John Robles (7-3 MMA 0-1 WSOF) has already fought once for the World Series of Fighting, where he lost a decision to UFC veteran Jared Papazian. Robles is a hard punching striker, with a great chin and forward moving mentality. Now fully healed from a few nagging injuries, Robles is ready to finish the year strong, and looking to fight before the end of the summer.

Christos Giagos (9-2 MMA Tachi Palace 155 lbs Champion) is one of those guys that just looks like a fighter. He has wrestler build, but with a Leno-like chin. He utilizes a great combination of jujitsu and wrestling on the mat, to secure some pretty slick submissions. On his feet his power is evident. In his last fight, he defeated a very tough Sevak Magakian via triangle choke in the very first round;  securing his first major world title at Tachi Palace. Giagos is looking to possibly fight for the RFA title before the end of the year, but nothing a contract is not in place yet. One thing is certain though, the UFC is paying very close attention. Already on their radar, Giagos intends to stay ready to fight in case that phone rings.

Terrion Ware (11-2 MMA Bamma USA 135 lbs Champion) is another fighter who is playing the waiting game. Riding a 6 fight win streak, Ware has torn through the SoCal ranks, and is one of the top pro prospects in the state. Currently the Bamma USA bantamweight champion, Ware is also slated to fight for the Tachi Palace belt against former Bellator Champion Joe Soto. A win there would all but guarantee a trip to the UFC.

Systems has a very busy month ahead, with training camp in full swing for several fighters preparing for fights on the horizon. Each morning this family gathers, then they punch each other in the face, happily. After all “the family that kicks the crap out of each other stays together right”?

You can be sure that the waves they are making in the fight world will continue to grow. However, remaining true to their identity is the key to their success. As the future brings more and more success, you can be certain that family atmosphere will never change.

 

 

 

 

 

As Much as We Love Him, Chael Sonnen Needs To Disappear, At Least For A While!

Posted: June 30, 2014 in Combat Sports, UFC
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chael

Photo courtesy of THE UFC

 

By: Jonathan King The Clinch Report

Commentary:

“He cheated, he did drugs, and he gave himself cancer. Well, instead of saying ‘Hey listen, I cheated and gave myself cancer, don’t be like me,’ he actually made himself the victim and then went out and profited something like $15 million from this ‘Hey, poor me, let’s find a cure for cancer’ campaign instead of just coming clean and saying, ‘Look, here’s what I did, I screwed myself up, and I hope people learn from my mistakes.’

-Chael P. Sonnen on Lance Armstrong

We shouldn’t be surprised or should we? The first failed drug test was an indication, wasn’t it? Or did we just fall for the excuse? The facts are in by using his own words, Chael Sonnen (who recently retired from MMA) is a cheater. The first failed drug test was blamed on his TRT exemption. Since being made illegal, Sonnen claimed his first ‘hot’ test was not a surprise. In fact, he stated he looked forward to enlightening the commision on the proper way to come off of TRT treatment.

The first test, (which prompted Sonnen’s retirement) was blamed on drugs that were necessary to ween himself off of the TRT therapy. Then news broke this week that Sonnen in fact failed another test, that was conducted by NSAC. A test that was performed previous to the earlier test. Results for some reason were just lagging behind. The second test removed all doubt as to Sonnen’s intentions.

The second failure set off alarms because of the presence of EPO and HGH. Both are banned substances, and both cannot be confused for “weening therapy”. EPO has long been used as a performance enhancer, because of its ability to help increase the oxygen load of red blood cells. HGH, which became famous during the Balco scandal, is used to speed up recovery time, and to help build muscle.

Neither can be confused as anything but performance enhancers.

This latest evidence proves that Sonnen’s intentions were to improve performance. Despite what he may want you to believe. The facts are he was taking the same substances Lance Armstrong was using, and the fact that he has hasn’t admitted anything yet; makes him as guilty as the man he villainized.

With Sonnen no longer actively competing in MMA, one must wonder if these latest revelations will prompt some sort of disciplinary action from either The UFC or from Fox themselves. As a commentator Sonnen is one of the best. His brash attitude, and quick wit make him a standout at Fox, not just among fighters, but among main stream sports casters as well.

His status and potential must however be put aside, at least for now. His recent actions have hurt the credibility of the sport, and that cannot be allowed by the UFC or its partners. Although he is clearly the best fight commentator, Dominick Cruz, Kenny Florian and Brian Stann could all adequately fill his shoes, while Sonnen rode out a suspension. However the suspension would have to be a significant one, one that allows time to remove the sting of Sonnen’s betrayal.

 

Cub Swanson Deserves, What Some Feel Entitled Too!

Posted: June 30, 2014 in Combat Sports, UFC
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TRU MMA

Cub Swanson with Brother Steven Coach Joel Diaz and his TRU MMA Team

By: Jonathan M King The Clinch Report

To begin the story of Cub Swanson (21-5 MMA), lets start halfway through the tale, to eliminate the 300 lbs elephant. In June 2009, Swanson ate a knee :08 seconds into his fight with Jose Aldo that ended the night for Swanson. ow he lost has since been the screw his haters turn whenever Swanson gets close to that title shot again. The problem is, it appears the UFC is listening, or at least agreeing.

Cub Swanson is a throwback fighter, in a world where title shots are talked into existence, Swanson prefers to let the wins pile up. His 6 fight win streak was punctuated with a 5 round dismantling of Jeremy Stephens at UFC Fight Night. Still after the win Swanson stayed true to his mantra, “I don’t beg!” Swanson said. Should he have too?

His current win streak has seen him beat Denis Siver, Ross Pearson, Dustin Poirier, and Charles Oliveira, as well as the aforementioned Stephens, with four of those six wins coming via stoppage.

Currently champion Jose Aldo is set to face Chad Mendes in Los Angeles in August. What is odd is that the same stereotype that haunts Swanson (vicious loss to Aldo) should also haunt Mendes (who was also KO’d by an Aldo Knee), however for some reason it doesn’t. Both fighters have been on a roll since the tile loss. Mendes has maintained an unblemished record, where as Swanson stumbled once when he was caught in a triangle by former title challenger Ricardo Lamas. (A fight Swanson was dominating before getting caught in the submission!)

So, whose next? If the UFC had its way, they would probably lobby for Connor MacGregor. Who is quickly replacing Chael Sonnen as the mouth of the UFC. Will he be able to talk his way into contention? What happens if Mendes gets hurt while preparing?

Hopefully Swanson’s status as a headliner at a Fight Night Event, was the UFC’s way of seeing if he was a viable headliner. As the UFC grows glaring hole has been the amount of legitimate headliners that can sell a PPV. Recent declines in numbers have people wondering if the amount of events (some weekends now how 2 events!) have watered down interest.

Sure this is all conjecture, and monday morning quarterbacking, but I question anyone to find someone more deserving of a title shot than Cub Swanson. Its been 5 years since he lost to Aldo the first time. In that time, no featherweight has shown more improvement. Each win has been punctuated by drastic improvements.

Swanson is also not the type to ‘ride out a win’. As his win over Stephens showed, even when clearly ahead on points, Swanson is constantly looking for the finish. Winning decisively is not enough for ‘Killer Cub’, he has to finish. This determination is what makes him one of the UFC’s most entertaining fighters to watch.

To deny a fighter what he has earned, because of what others perceive is shameful. It reduces effort, and makes the sport look more and more like a popularity contest, than a combat sport competition!

Maybe if the sport was actually regulated by the ranking system already in place, we wouldn’t run into these issues. The Bottom line is the UFC decides who fights who, not the rankings.

We can only hope that the deserving, and the anointed are one in the same!

Spar Star MMA: Press Release For Immediate Distribution

Posted: June 21, 2014 in Combat Sports, UFC
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SSTAR-Top-Header2 (1)

SSWHITELOGO

 

 

 

 

PRESS RELEASE: 6/20/2014
Spar Star MMA: Mixed Martial Arts Promotion

For Immediate Release:
Spar Star MMA has long been one of Southern California’s best MMA promotions. Since 2008, Owner Tony Padilla has been hosting both pro and amateur fights featuring some of the regions most notable names such as: Jay Silva (Bellator and UFC vet), Sevak Megakian (TUF contestant), Mario Navarro (Bellator), Karim Ghazi (Formerly Chris Saunders: TUF contestant and UFC vet), and most notably Ashlee Evans-Smith (WSOF, CFA) who is now 2-0 as a professional and will soon be carving her way through the World Series of Fighting ranks.

Although now fighting in one of the worlds biggest promotions, and on national television, Smith still thinks back to her days as an amateur…”These amateur shows, especially Spar Star are a great way for fighters to get wet behind the ears.” Smith said “Tony’s shows always have a professional feel, with a fun family environment.” Smith said. Ashlee Evans-Smith will face Marcia Allen (3-1) on 6/21/14. Smith will be fighting on the undercard, and will be looking to make another statement after her crushing win over transgender fighter Fallon Fox earlier in the year!

Smith will most certainly be in attendance for the Aug 9th show as Spar Star MMA returns once again to The Hollywood Park Casino. The crowd is always filled with MMA royalty such as: Former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion and Hall of Famer, Current Bellator MMA fighter Tito Ortiz, Former UFC Middleweight Champion Rich ‘Ace’ Franklin, Former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion, Current Bellator Fighter Cheick Kongo, Bellator veteran Hector ‘Sick Dog’ Ramirez, UFC Fighter Michael Bisping. and many more.

Spar Star MMA always relies on the regions top MMA gyms which enables matchmaker Mel Valenzuela to pick from a talent pool that maybe one of the sports deepest, globally. California is still the world capital MMA. If you were at the last event you know, if you werent, by now you have heard. Spectacular fights were highlighted by a once in a lifetime intimate concert with Hip Hop Legend Dub C.

On August 9th, the ball continues to roll. With some of the best local gyms such as: Tapout LA, Systems Training Centers, UFC Gyms, 10th Planet Jujitsu, Team PKG, Dynamix MMA, The Body Shop, Blackhouse MMA, Kings MMA, Werdum Combat Team, DogPound MMA, Sweat Shop MMA,HBUTC MMA, NZT Pankration, and many others all ready to send some of their best fighters, the night will be filled with crushing body shots, and I.Q. changing head kicks.

As Spar Star MMA continues to gain momentum, keep an eye out for us in wonderful state of Texas! We are currently in works to put on events in several cities including Corpus Christi E Paso, and San Padre Island. We will continue to provide live streams of the events so you will be able to watch from the comfort of your home.This also gives us the opportunity to add television sponsors! Currently we are also in negotiation with a promotion in Australia as well! So hopefully soon, we can bring our brand of MMA down under!

While we continue to grow, and look forward to bringing our brand global, we still understand that Southern California is our home. We will continue to grow locally as well. Please stay tuned for Spar Star: “The Smoker Series”, as we return to the grass roots of MMA in a way that only that Spar Star can!

Make sure you get your tickets for the August 9th show way ahead of time, we have sold out 3 consecutive events, so get your ticket now!

Please continue to follow us on social media.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Spar-Star-Promotions/101943773230504
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SparStarFights
Instagram: http://instagram.com/sparstarmma

Spar Star MMA: Cages, Combat, and A Hip Hop Legend!

Posted: May 3, 2014 in Combat Sports, UFC
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Cali Love

Cali Love

By: Jonathan M. King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

Spar Star MMA once again took over the Hollywood Park Casino with not only a collection of amazing fights, but SoCal’s favorite son DUB C of the West Side Connection took over at intermission, and the place exploded! Locals saluted with their hands, and the performers responded in kind, as the intimate setting proved to be a unique fusion of entertainment that complimented each other well.

The fights were also extremely entertaining. The main event featured two highly skilled amateurs who are both making names for themselves as top MMA prospects. Tigran Martirosyan and Albert Morales squared off for the vacant 145 lbs Spar Star Title.

Morales and his teammates were all working with heavy hearts as their teammate Dee Boites was killed earlier in the week, the victim of a senseless criminal. Boites was crossing the street in Inglewood, when a criminal who was being pursued by the police, barreled through a red light and struck Boites with his car in the crosswalk. Boites later succumbed to his injuries. Morales fought with “Dee” written all over his equipment, as a tribute to his fallen training partner.

The fight was a back and forth battle with both landing heavy strikes, however the story was Morales’s grappling. Martirosyan was unable to counter the slick transitions by Morales on the ground. Once Morales exposed this weakness, he seemed to focus on bringing the fight to the mat. After several attempts at a submission with the arm, Morals was able to transition to the triangle. After a roll he ended up keeping it in the mount, where he secured the head, and the tap! The win brings Morales to 2-0 as an amteur, but the caliber of his opponent will certainly elevate him in the Camo ranks.

Spar Star Promotions provides a necessary element in MMA. They provide a stage for young fighters to test their metal. Spar Star separates the wheat from the chaff, the confident from the bragard, and the fighters from the frauds. They provide the pro ranks with a talent pool to choose from that has been battle tested, and crowd approved.

To Read more about Dee Boites please go to this site: http://www.systemstrainingcenter.com/systems-training-centers-loss-brother/

There is a link on that page to make donations to the Boites Family.

We would like to send our thoughts and prayers to the friends and family of Dee Boites, and all of his training partners at Systems Training Center!

UFC 172 Main Card Predictions and Analysis

Posted: April 23, 2014 in Combat Sports, UFC
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Andre Fili posturing up for a big right hand, as Enoch Wilson defends in guard!

Andre Fili at Tachi Palace v Enoch Wilson. Photo By: John Walsh

 

By: Jonathan M King The Clinch Report

Andre Fili vs. Max Holloway

Max Holloway is a real tough dude, but unfortunately for him he is running into a juggernaut in Andre Fili. Fili should have no problem out working Holloway, utilizing his superior reach, and dynamic arsenal of strikes. However Fili has yet to prove his game on the ground, which is where Holloway will try to capitalize. Fili should be able to keep the fight upright, utilizing his length. Look for him to get more comfortable as the fight wears on. Winner: Fili via UD

Yancy Medeiros vs. Jim Miller Filling in on short notice is difficult enough, but to do so against 155 lbs stalwart Jim Miller takes testicular fortitude. In Miller,  Medeiros; who stepped in for injured Bobby Green will face his toughest test yet in the world of MMA. Miller has been “The Guy” in the 155 lbs division who decides wether you’re worth a shot or not, for a long time, and will be for the near future. Miller will rely on his experience to sink in a slick submission. Winner: Miller via Submission

Tim Boetsch vs. Luke Rockhold Tim Boetsch is a grinder with elusive power. He is basically Vladimir Matyushenko with Wanderlei-esque knockout power. In the clinch his uppercuts starches chins, and his ground game is pretty powerful as well. Luke Rockhold however is going to be way too much of an athlete for Boetsch. Rockhold’s striking prowess, natural athletic ability, and solid grappling will neutralize Boetsch where he is at his best, frustrating him. The fight could end in merciful TKO, but it will probably be an ugly one sided decision, simply because Boetsch is one tough dude! Winner: Luke Rockhold via UD

Phil Davis vs. Anthony Johnson Anthony ‘Rumble’ Johnson is back in the UFC following his successful run in The World Series of Fighting at Heavyweight. Now back at 205 lbs, and back with the UFC, ‘Rumbles’ first fight is no small task. In fact, Johnson will have to rely on his heavy hands to test the previously uncracked chin of Phil Davis. Davis is one of the sports most accomplished wrestlers, and more importantly he is probably the most successful at adapting a pure wrestling style into one that is effective in MMA. His long reach and trunk-like base make shooting for a takedown, a very punishing experience. Johnson will have to somehow get inside and maintain his feet if he expects to win. However Davis is looking to make a statement in the division, and looking to do so at ‘Rumble’s’ expense. Winner: Phil Davis via Submission

Jon Jones* vs. Glover Teixeira For Light heavyweight title (*current champion)

Jon Jones is one of most talented fighters to ever set foot in the cage. His only official career blemish came because of a questionable DQ loss to Matt Hamill. And since defeating Mauricio ‘Shogun’ Rua in March of 2011, the title has remained on Jones waist. However, in his last fight Alexander Gustafsson was able to beat Jones to the punch, in most cases, leaving the champion battered after five rounds. Jones was able to escape with a narrow decision, however his facade as an unbeatable fighter had been torn away. In steps Brazilian slugger Glover Teixeira. Teixera hasn’t lost a fight since Pope John Paul held the Vatican’s title. However, in the UFC hs wins come over Ryan Bader, James Te Huna, Quinton Jackson, Fabio Maldonado, and Kyle Kingsbury. A nice collection of wins, but none except Jackson were ever title contenders, and he was long removed from that status when he fought Teixeira. Jones, on the other hand has fought everyone, and defeated them! Chael Sonnen, Vitor Belfort, Maurico Rua, Rashad Evans, Lyoto Machida, as well as Jackson and the aforementioned Gustafsson. Experience favors the champion, but fortune favors the bold, and Glover Teixeira is more than ready for this fight.

Winner: Glover Teixeira via TKO 

Bamma USA BadBeat 12 Shakes It Up a Bit

Posted: March 29, 2014 in Combat Sports, UFC
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Bamma BB12-7

The Champ spends a moment with his Grandmother.

By: Jonathan King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

Bamma USA is known for putting on some of the best Mixed Martial Arts fights in California. Last night reinforced that recognition with some well balanced match-ups, and fighters who left all of their efforts in the cage.

Early on in the event, The Commerce Casino was rocked with a earthquake that registered 5.1 on the Richter scale. The after shocks, were hardly noticed as the crowd spent most of the night on their feet cheering loudly.

With the ground vibrating, the night was highlighted with spectacular efforts from a few fighters, one of which was former TUF contestant Chris Beal; who looked extremely comfortable as he dispatched a very game Keith Carson. Beal utilized his superior striking skills to take out the jittery Carson, who never seemed to get comfortable.

Beal utilized his superior counter striking and kept Carson guessing and flailing with random strikes that never seemed to threaten Beal. Beal maintained his composure, and showed excellent growth as he patiently waited for the opening instead of forcing the finish.

Comebacks are always entertaining, and Kevin Bostick’s comeback KO had the Casino shaking again. Bostick was able to absorb a vicious head kick from Chris Pena late in the first round. Moments later he countered a knee attempt with a huge uppercut that connected with Pena’s chin, immediately turning off the lights. Pena fell supine as the arena erupted with excitement.

The ladies also made a huge impression as Melanie Lacroix and Brooksie Baynard put on a back and forth battle that left both fighters battered. Baynard pressed the action the entire fight, utilizing her brute strength to her advantage, tossing Lacroix at first. However, Lacroix quickly changed her game plan, and was able to land countless knees in the clinch to Baynard’s face. Lacroix cruised to a close unanimous decision win. The fight was clearly a fan favorite, as the crowd stood for the entire second and third rounds.

Terrion Ware is quickly becoming the name you want to know, before everyone else in the world of MMA does. Last night, he proved why he should be the next guy on the UFC’s radar. Ware outlasted Eric Winston in a very tough 5 round war that netted ‘The Flash’ his first Bamma USA Title at 135 lbs. Winston proved to be a very tough opponent as advertised, and he was able to take down Ware on multiple occasions. However, outside of a near choke in the first round, he was never able to mount much offense with his dominant position. Ware was able to get out of that situation and never seemed in trouble on the mat after that round.

The fight came down to Ware’s superior counter punching. On multiple occasions he changed levels and countered with body shots and finished upstairs with the hook. Winston’s chin held up, and he was even able to clip Ware late in the fourth round. However, Ware came out for the start of the fifth with renewed vigor. Although, Winston was able to score another take down, Ware was able to get up after Referee Mike Beltran stood the fighters up, due too lack of action. Once standing Ware lit Winston up with body shots, and even attempted a few flying knees late that missed their mark.

Terrion Ware dedicated the win, and the title to the memory of his grandmother who passed away earlier in the week.

Once again the promoter Brett Roberts and his team created an atmosphere where the fighters decide the success of the event, and once again the fighters delivered. Bamma USA offers some of the most competitive fights available, and for the die hard fan, the pay per availability should be “must watch TV”. The fighters are hungry, aggressive, and the match-ups break the mold of the one sided regional promotions.

 

Notes: Also winning were Lateef Williams who dispatched Paul Karsky quickly with a slam and following choke; Kyra Batara impressively beat Misha Nassiri via Armbar; Benji Gomez outlasted David Duran, Christian Aguilera defeated Kory Kelly; Greg Parker defeated Paul Song; Justin Jones submitted Paul Gemmati; and Steve Kozola TKO’d Tommy Gavin.

All photos, and images are owned by The Clinch Report, LLC. Any unauthorized use or distribution is expressly prohibited, Please contact us at news@theclinchreport.com for information about obtaining the rights.

UFC 170 Predictions and Analysis

Posted: February 21, 2014 in Combat Sports, UFC
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By: Jonathan King ‘The Clinch Report’

Ronda Rousey vs. Sara McMann (women’s bantamweight championship)

Daniel Cormier vs. Patrick Cummins

Rory MacDonald vs. Demian Maia

Mike Pyle vs. T.J. Waldburger

Robert Whittaker vs. Stephen Thompson

The UFC 170 fight card lost some of its appeal when co main event fighter Rashad Evans was injured in training, leaving Daniel Cormier without an opponent for his 205 lbs debut. Frantically the UFC scrambled to find a fighter, and decided on Patrick Cummins who is only 4-0 as a professional.  With other fighters refusing to fight on short notice, the UFC was left grasping to an aged story line, that had Cummins “breaking” Cormier in a training session while he was preparing for the Olympics.

No matter how much hype they try to build, the fight on paper is nothing more than filler. Cormier should have no problem dispatching Cummins, however I would not be surprised by a lack luster fight from both. Cormier is dealing with a heavy weight cut, and Cummins has never fought on such a big  stage. Cummins could shock the world, the stage is set for it, however I dont see that happening! Cormier via TKO

The real story is the Rousey vs. McMann fight. A stylistic match up that intrigues most fight fans. The Olympic Judoka vs the Olympic Wrestler. Both fighters received medals in their respected sports, as Olympians, both are undefeated, and the talent both possess as mixed martial artists has grown exponentially.  Although this fight may become a grappling match, it will certainly be a chess match of epic proportions. This fight may actually be won in the corner. In other words, the fighter that can adjust best on the fly may have the advantage. Both woman should have their moments, however Ronda can end it in a moment, so I have the Champion! Rousey via Submission.

Rory MacDonald v Demian Maia could go a long way as to define the next 170 lbs contenders. MacDonald is coming off a lackluster loss to Robbie Lawler, and Maia as well was out grappled by Jake Shields in another fight that lacked much excitement. So both have something to prove to the UFC brass. You can expect Maia to look for the take down, and you can expect MacDonald to try to avoid it at all costs! Mac Donald’s take down defense may be the difference. If  he can keep it standing, he should be able to land the decisive blow. MacDonald via TKO.

Pyle v Waldburger Should be a very entertaining fight, our candidate for FOTN (other than Rousey v McMann). Both fighters are in need of wins, to re establish themselves in the division, and both are coming off KO losses. Pyle has the experience,and its tough to bet against it, in this case! Pyle via decision.

Robert Whitaker and Stephen Thompson could be another barn burner. Although Whittaker does have an extensive submission pedigree he does like to stand and trade. That is exactly what Thompson wants to do. Thompson is one of the best kick boxers in the UFC, and if he can avoid the grasp of Whitaker he should be able to put on a striking display. Thompson via TKO.

UPC 18: ‘Up and Comers’ Champions Arise in the Desert

Posted: January 7, 2014 in Combat Sports, UFC
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , ,
1
And Still......

And Still……

By: Jonathan King ‘The Clinch Report’

Photos By: John Walsh ‘The Clinch Report’

Not many are born into the UFC as professional fighters. Most rise through the regional rankings, fighting in front of half empty houses, and usually with very little that differentiates the scrap from a back yard brawl. UPC or “Up and Comers” is a promotion that offers the same grass roots level MMA, but with a much classier look and feel. 

The Agua Caliente Casino plays an amazing host, featuring a professional ‘in the round’ arena, that has stadium seating and atrium concessions, just like the big events in Las Vegas. Promoter Jason Weiner does an amazing job creating this environment, that really allows the fighter to feel like an athlete performing on a grand stage.

As a promoter, all one can do is set the stage, eventually though the fighters have to hold up their end. If you sign a contract to fight, the least you can do is show up! UPC  “Up and Comer’s 18”  was one of the oddest fight cards in recent memory. Only one fight went the distance, another ended early in the 2nd frame. All others, lasted less than 5 minutes. Among the winners were Jaime Sierra, Kyle Stewart, Chris Honeycutt, Everett Cummings, and Steven Swanson. 

Chris Honeycutt was able to defend his UPC Middleweight title while dominating his opponent throughout the first round. Although Jake Gallagher was able to defend at first, Honeycutt’s smothering attack and relentless pressure forced the TKO stoppage late in the first round. Honeycutt, now stands undefeated at 4-0, and continues to be one of the sports top young prospects.

The night, however belonged to TRU MMA. Although Troy Guerrero lost a close decision (to a very gritty David Lopez), Jaime Sierra and Steve Swanson were able to get the hometown crowd charged up, with exciting stoppages. Gareth De La Cruz, however was left without a fight, as his opponent never showed up. 

Also having a big night were the military fight team from Fight Club 29. Coach Mark Geletko’s marines had a great night, as both Kyle Stewart, and Marcus Baungard were able to secure dominating wins. Unfortunately, a few other fighters also lost their opportunity too fight, because again, opponents never showed up!

Not every card can be a memorable night of fights. The hurt business can be very unpredictable. Last second injuries, and replacements can mar a fight card and cause resentment with the fans. However, in this instance both the commission and the promoter were not too blame. This time unfortunately, unprofessional fighters are the reason. It comes down to being a man of your word. One can only imagine the opportunity that was taken from another deserving fighter.

By not showing up you disrespect the sport, the fans, your opponents, and the martial arts in general. 

 

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