March 31, 2009
Eddie Alvarez arrived in Florida this afternoon for the inaugural Bellator Fighting Championships at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino this Friday, April 3. A highly respected fighter in Japan, and sought after by northeast U.S. promoters for his ability to sell-out up to a quarter of the venue, the Philadelphia Fight Factory stand-out is looking at this tournament as his shot to show people in the U.S. what he has. Understanding the importance to impress the Hispanic people here, a win Friday for the 25-year-old lightweight will go a long way to boosting his recognition in the United States. Michael Woods with ESPN.com recently profiled Alvarez. Read The Article Here.
Due to a conflict of events with the venue, the organizers of the ADCC North American Trials were forced to change the dates of the East Coast trials. The new dates for the ADCC North American East Coast Trials are June 13 and 14. Visit www.adccusa.com for more information.
Harrisburg-native Dustin Pague is coming off a 45 second first round submission win this past weekend at Southern Fight League in North Carolina. His second in as many fights. Made to travel out of state to fight, the multiple amateur title champion is stoked about legislation recently signed legalizing MMA in PA. Using the gifts God has given him, the recent Man Up, You Sissy tournament champion has an overall MMA record of 11 wins and 4 loses, since making his MMA debut in February 2006, with 10 of those wins by submission. ADCC News had an opportunity to talk with the former professional skateboarder turned professional mixed martial artist after his win. Read The Interview Here.
March 30, 2009
Rosendo Diaz and Brett Hoover recognized several members of the academy who have worked hard to improve their skills. Congratulations must go out to the following RDBJJ members. Roy Stoflet earned a 3rd stripe, white belt, Bill Mann earned his 4th stripe, white belt, Abhay Kunwar earned his blue belt, Mike Omensetter earned his 1st stripe, blue belt, Fred Braunsberg earned his 2nd stripe, purple belt.
Berks County Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy hosted Rosendo Diaz at their Sinking Spring academy for a workshop Friday. At the end of the workshop, Diaz promoted some well deserving individuals. Jason Howell, Dave Riddle and Jack Allen each earned the rank of blue belt.
March 29, 2009
Pittsburgh-native James Brasco (2-1) fighting out of Team Popovitch in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, steps up on just five days notice in a middleweight non-tournament fight in the inaugural Bellator Fighting Championships this Friday, April 3, at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida. The 2007 World Jiu-Jitsu Brown Belt Champion made his MMA debut defeating William Parker by first round TKO at World Extreme Fighting on August 10, 2007. Passed up by the UFC for Season 7 of The Ultimate Fighter, Brasco went on to to defeat Gareth Joseph by Split Decision at Cage Warriors USA on March 29, 2008. The three-time NCAA Eastern Regional and AAU Grand National champion in both freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling fell to Yosmany Cabezas by first round TKO at Real Fighting Championships on September 19, 2008. Now, the 34-year-old six-time N.A.G.A. champion and ADCC North American Trial Invitee steps back into the cage after another seven month lay-off from competition.
Extreme Challenge MMA returned to Atlantic City last night at the Trump Marina, featuring MMA professionals from Pennsylvania. Tara LaRosa (124.5) of Philadelphia Fight Factory defeated Sally Krumdiak (124.5) of Pearson’s Martial Arts in Washington, via tap out due to kimura at 1:45 of round three. Mike Johnson (184.3) of Philadelphia Fight Factory lost to James Silva (184.8) via TKO referee stoppage due to strikes at 1:26 of round two. Johnson is suspended indefinately pending x-rays of ribs and clearance of same. Matt Kocher (168.6) of LionHeart in State College lost to Duncannon-native Troy Maxwell (170.2) of Extreme Performance MMA in New Jersey, via rear naked choke at 2:51 of round two. Biff Walizer (155.2) of LionHeart in State College lost to Kevin Roddy (152.1) via triangle choke at 3:19 of round two. Roddy is suspended pending healing of left eyebrow laceration.
March 28, 2009
Dustin Pague of Hulstine Athletics in Harrisburg defeated Charles Cooper from Oregon, by ankle lock submission tonight at Southern Fight League: G-Vegas Throwdown in Greenville, North Carolina. The 21-year-old knocked Cooper down with a left hook, followed by a knee to the head that caused a cut before breaking his ankle at just 0:45 of the first round. This is the second straight win by submission for the Pennsylvanian in North Carolina compeititon. Pague is coming off a first place victory after five matches at the Man Up, You Sissy submission grappling tournament on March 15 in Telford.
March 27, 2009
Virginia-based Gladiator Fight Club is advertising a professional MMA event for June 27 at Temple University in Philadelphia. "I need registrations on the GFC website for fighters wanting to participate in the event," said promoter Christopher A. McCabe, "I need four extremely well-versed well known fighters for the top two bouts" for GFC VII: Ultimate Victory. Interested fighters should contact Chris directly at 540.529.8300.
Bellator Fighting Championships announced today that Bellator IV, the fourth event of the highly anticipated 12-week tournament series airing on ESPN Deportes, will be held in Colorado Springs, Colorado, on Friday, April 24, and not State College, as previously suggested with approval pending by the Pennsylvania State Athletic Commission as recent as March 23. The Semi-Final round of the World Championship Lightweight Tournament will be featured along with a selection of heavyweights.
Braden "The Bull Shark" Bice of Bice MMA in Mercer will face Josh Stansbury of Team Next Level in Ohio, on Saturday, April 11, at American Hardcore MMA in Warren, Ohio. Bice recently defeated freestyle wrestling state champion Jon Gonzalez from Iowa by submission early in the first round at King of the Cage in Minnesota. Stansbury claimed the Next Level Fighting amateur heavyweight championship with a first round KO in August 2006, and the NAAFS championship in December 2007. The 10-2 multiple amateur champion will make his professional debut against Bice.
Due to an increasing number of requests for DVDs, Washington-based Cage of Chaos has formed a partnership with Pittsburgh-based Dreaming Ronin Films, LLC to film their events and turn around raw footage DVDs the same night. Cage of Chaos was developed by Dave Klick in March 2006. Dreaming Ronin Films ownerJohn Zielenski is a veteran cameraman/videographer. Orders are now being taken
for the seventh installment of the promotion scheduled for Friday, April 10, at the
James E Carnes Center is St. Clairesville, Ohio. Past DVDs are also available. Contact
dreamingronin@comcast.net for more information.
March 26, 2009
Inkosi Promotions held their inaugural event on Saturday, March 21, at the Lehighton Recreation Center in the greater Allentown area. "Inkosi: Genesis" offered nine amateur kickboxing bouts featuring fighters from area academies.
FIGHT #1) SMW 163-169.9
Brian Hawk (RPFS) vs Kevin Myerski (RPFS)
Winner: Myerski (Round 2 Injury Stoppage)
FIGHT #2) WW 143-152.9
Nolan Wiser (TSK) vs A.J. Laughlin (Hoover)
Winner: Wiser (Decision)
FIGHT #3) LHW 170-183.9
Brian Judge (Simrell) vs Brian Simonetti (Ind.)
Winner: Judge (KO Round 3)
FIGHT #4) CW 184-200
Roy Gonzalez (Simrell) vs Jake Gombocz (Cage)
Winner: Gombocz (Decision)
FIGHT #5) LW 133-142.9
Chad Ellis (Hoover) vs Armando Velez (TSK)
Winner: Velez (Decision)
FIGHT #6) LW 133-142.9
Matthew Nieves (Cage) vs Shane Donahue (CHMT)
Winner: Donahue (Decision)
FIGHT #7) HW 201+
John Powell (Simrell) vs Dave Kupufnick (X-treme)
Winner: Powell (2nd Round Ref Stoppage)
FIGHT # 8) CW 184-200
Mike Brewner (RMA) vs Tracy Smith (Utsch)
WINNER: DRAW
FIGHT #9) SMW 163-169.9
Bryan Kimble (Rat Pack) vs Kyle Hillman (CHMT)
Winner: Hillman (Decision)
Last minute changes have affected multiple Pennsylvania-based fighters on the upcoming Extreme Challenge MMA card for this Saturday, March 28, at the Trump Marina in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Off the card are Tuan Pham of Philadelphia-based Fight Firm and Lock Haven University wrestler Blair Tugman of Ultimate MMA in Connecticut. Still on the card, but with different opponents are Biff Walizer of State College-based LionHeart, Mike Johnson of Philadelphia Fight Factory and Duncannon-native Troy Maxwell of Extreme Performance MMA in New Jersey. Newly added is Maxwell opponent Matt Kocher of State College-based LionHeart.
March 25, 2009
Eddie Alvarez (15-2) of Philadelphia Fight Factory received a new opponent for the inaugural Bellator Fighting Championships MMA event scheduled for Friday, April 3, at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida. Greg Loughran (18-11) from Progressive Combat in Northern Ireland, steps up on just 10 days notice to take on the former bodogFIGHT champion in a featured lightweight tournament fight. Visit www.bellator.com for more information.
The Pennsylvania State Athletic Commission has approved Iron Will Fighting Championship for Saturday, May 16. The event is scheduled for the Cambria County War Memorial in Johnstown, home of EliteXC veteran and former Battle Cage Xtreme champion, Carlton Haselrig (2-1). The fight card is currently being developed. If you are interested in fighting on this card, please fill out the Fighter Registration. More information to follow.
March 24, 2009
Tristate MMA-BJJ will host a seminar with 6X World Jiu-Jitsu champion Saulo Ribeiro at their Milford academy on Saturday, April 25, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. The cost is just $125.00 per person prepaid by April 15. The seminar is open to the first 30 people. Contact tristatebjj@gmail.com or 570.242.4650 for more information.
Ultimate Grapplers Challenge VIII: Clash of the Titans is scheduled for Saturday, April 11, at Champion Sportsplex in Brodheadsville. The tournament will offer more than 100 divisions in Gi and No-Gi for men, women, teens and children. Weigh-ins start at 8:00 AM. Call 610.441.4559 for more information. Champion Sportsplex is located at 9 Pilgrim Way.
Lancaster Family Martial Arts Center will host a seminar with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and multiple-time world champion Royler Gracie on Saturday, April 4, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at their Mountville academy. Lancaster Family Martial Arts Center is located in the Clipper Magazine Business Park at 3706 Hempland Road. Contact 717.898.6120 or mjweisensee@comcast.net for more information.
March 23, 2009
The Pennsylvania State Athletic Commission officially announced the first approved Pro-Am MMA in PA event in an email to MMAinPA.com today. Central Pennsylvania Warrior Challenge is scheduled for Sunday, April 19, at the Wisehaven Banquet & Expo Center in York. No card has been approved by the Commission according to the Official Certified MMA Registry of the Association of Boxing Commissions, which is utilized by the Commission, according to Executive Director, Greg Sirb. The Wisehaven Banquet Hall is located at 2985 East Prospect Road. Sirb also informed MMAinPA.com that Bellator Fighting Championships is pending for April 24 in State College, as originally suggested here on March 3, King's Promotions is pending for May 30 in Reading with a Pro Boxing - Amateur MMA event, and nothing is definite on the UFC for August 8 in Philadelphia.
The UFC is taking applications and inviting fighters with an established professional record to an open casting call for Season 10 of “The Ultimate Fighter,” on Monday, April 6, at the Marriott Seattle Airport in Seattle, Washington. The series will be casting fighters in the middleweight (185), lightheavyweight (205) and heavyweight (265) divisions. The tryouts consist of a combined grappling session, hitting pads, as well as a series of on camera interviews. This is the first time the UFC is considering using three weight classes on the reality series. An online copy of the fighter application can be downloaded in Adobe format here. The Marriott Seattle Airport is located at 3201 176th Street.
The Laurel State Martial Arts Championships will be held this Saturday, March 28, at the White Oak Athletic Association, offering a No-Gi grappling tournament directed by CGS. Weigh-Ins are 9:30 AM and the Competition at 11:00 AM. The cost is just $35.00 per person cash only at the door. The White Oak Athletic Association is located at 1600 Lower Heckman Road in White Oak.
Berks County BJJ will host a special workshop with RGDA Black Belt Rosendo Diaz on Friday, March 27, from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM at their Sinking Spring academy. The cost is just $40.00 per person. Call 610.621.9202 or email SMock76055@comcast.net for more information or to register.
Congratulations to Jeff Giaconova of Berks County BJJ in Sinking Spring for taking the Gold this weekend at THE GOOD FIGHT: Tournament of Brotherly Love in Philadelphia.
March 22, 2009
Lion-Do Fight Club made the long trek to Dayton, Ohio, for the OXF St. Patty's Day Smackdown show run by the UFC's Mike Patt. Lion-Do middleweight Eli Garshnick improved his record to (5-1) with a third round submission win over Chris Mierzwiak a Jorgel Gurgel fighter via rear naked choke. Garshnick was a three-time All-American wrestler at UPJ and Mierzwiak wrestled at Miami Ohio. This is the second consecutive title win by rear naked choke for the New Florence-native. In February, the 24-year-old earned the MMA in the Valley 15 middleweight championship defeating the previously unbeaten Joe Harrison (3-1) of Coalition Fight Team in West Virginia. Garshnick will now advance in the Mid-American Fight Series Middleweight Tournament against Tyler Beckley (5-1) who fights out of Fighters Guild of Findlay. Beckley is the current OXF Middleweight Champion. The belt will be on the line as will a spot in the finals of the MAFS Tournament and a Pro contract. Garshnick and Beckley will clash at the OXF - Demolition show in Dayton, Ohio on May 30th at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds.
Matt Makowski of Daddis FC in Philadelphia will face Aaron Tregear of London, Canada, in a non-tournament lightweight fight in Bellator Fighting Championships on Friday, April 10, at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, Connecticut. Both fighters have seen success in the welterweight division. Makowski, an EliteXC veteran, is coming off a Unanimous Decision win over Sergio Vinagre at Ring of Combat in February. Tregear is coming off a TKO win over Joel Powell in the former TKO in October.
March 21, 2009
The Pennsylvania State Athletic Commission will first and foremost utilize the Official Certified MMA Registry of the Association of Boxing Commissions (ABC), which is www.mixedmartialarts.com, in determining the eligibility of match ups presented to the SAC by promoters. Although approved by the ABC, the database is flawed. The database was established years ago, then obtained by the current site. Information contained in the database is received from multiple sources. State Commissions (listed as Official), as well as the local promoter (listed as NSF), for example, submit event results to the database.
You will find, for example, Anthony Williams listed two times, (one and two), as there are two fighters with the same name. Up to August 2008, the fight records of the two Williams' were mixed. You will find Mathew Beitz listed two times, (one and two), but in this case, they are one in the same fighter. You will find Dustin Pague listed two times, (one and two), with one record blank, and the other record with amateur and professional results. In this case, the three NSF records under "professional," are actually "amateur" fights. It is a work in progress.
All fighters are encouraged to view their respective record, and take action to make any corrections necessary for accuracy. This can only benefit the fighter when being scouted by promoters, and aid the SAC is verification of records in approving a fight. Fighters also have an opportunity to upload pictures, videos, news about themselves and interviews. Contact chris@mixedmartialarts.com with any updates.
March 20, 2009
Extreme Challenge MMA returns to Atlantic City on Saturday, March 28, in the Grand Cayman at the Trump Marina offering 12 fights featuring MMA professionals from Pennsylvania. Top-rated Tara LaRosa of Philadelphia Fight Factory takes on Sally Krumdiak of Pearson’s Martial Arts in Washington. LaRosa defeated Alexis Davis of RGDA in Canada via TKO at War at the Shore in January. Krumdiak has won five straight since losing her pro debut. Biff Walizer of State College-based LionHeart takes on Adam Cunningham from Indiana and Mike Johnson of Fight Factory takes on Jason Christie. Duncannon-native Troy Maxwell of Extreme Performance MMA in New Jersey takes on Jonathan Evans and Lock Haven University wrestler Blair Tugman of Ultimate MMA in Connecticut is scheduled to return to the cage after an 11 month lay-off. First bout will be at 9:00 PM. Tickets can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com.
March 19, 2009
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt Anderson de Souza is available for seminars through June. You can learn from the multiple world title champion, which includes the 2008 Mundials, the 2006 and 2007 Brazilian Nationals and the 2007 Pan-Ams, for as low as $40.00 per person. For more information, call 570.429.2404 or email joejitsu1@verizon.net.
Braden "The Bull Shark" Bice of Bice MMA in Mercer will face 2X Indiana State wrestling champion Anton Talamantes of Team Truth in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, in a heavyweight fight at the inaugural Absolute Fighting Alliance on June 6. Bice recently defeated freestyle wrestling state champion Jon Gonzalez from Iowa by submission early in the first round at King of the Cage in Minnesota.
March 18, 2009
LionHeart MMA is proud to announce a special training opportunity with Ricardo De La Riva Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt Tony Passos on Sunday, March 22 and Monday, March 23, at their State College facility. Passos is part of a select group of De La Riva Black Belts, which includes professional MMA champions such as Antonio Rogério "Minotoro" Nogueira and Antonio Rodrigo "Minotauro" Nogueira. Passos started training in BJJ in 1998 and earned his Black Belt in 2007. Train with one of the best BJJ instructors on the east coast on Sunday from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM and Monday from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM. Private lessons are available before or after group instruction. Cost is free to current LionHeart Fitness members and just $10.00/person per session for non-members. LionHeart MMA is located at 127 Sowers Street.
Godoi Jiu-Jitsu black belt and undefeated mixed martial artist Wilson Reis is expected to make his Bellator Fighting Championships debut on Friday, April 10, at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, Connecticut. The Philadelphia transplant is expected to face Henry Martinez of Jackson's MMA in New Mexico, in a featherweight tournament bout to be broadcast Saturday, April 11, on ESPN Deportes.
Lion-Do Fight Club middleweight and former UPJ All-American wrestler and Judo black belt Eli Garshnick (4-1) will be fighting in Dayton, Ohio, this Saturday, March 21, at the OXF St. Patty's Day Smackdown at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds. Garshnick will be part of an eight-man tournament for a professional contract. The New Florence-native will take on Jerry Birt (3-3) in a #1 contender elimination bout. If Garshnick wins, he would take on the winner of the undefeated James Blackburn (5-0) vs Tyler Beckley (4-1) fight for the OXF Middleweight title. The second round of the tournament would be on May 30.
March 17, 2009
Williamstown-native Mike Ciesnolevicz of Miletich Fighting Systems in Iowa is off the April 18 UFC® 97: Redemption card due to injury. Stepping up to face submission specialist Eliot Marshall of Boulder, Colorado, is fellow TUF Season 8 finalist and Royler Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt Vinicius Magalhaes of Pro-Am MMA Training Center in Murrieta, California.
The Ultimate Fighting Championship® is keeping Pennsylvania-native fighters busy the next few months. Carmelo Marrero of Douglassville is scheduled to face Ryan Bader of Tempe, Arizona, at UFC® Fight Night™: Condit vs Kampmann on Wednesday, April 1, in Nashville, Tennessee. A member of American Top Team, the 28-year-old Marrero is coming off a Split Decision win over Steve Stienbeiss of Tempe, Arizona, at WEC® Faber vs Brown in November. Brian Stann of Scranton is scheduled to face Krzysztof Soszynski of Canada at UFC® 97: Redemption on April 18 in Montreal, Canada. A member of Greg Jackson's MMA, the 28-year-old, Stann, known as "All American," is making his UFC® debut after massing a 5-1 professional record in the WEC. Josh Koscheck of Waynesburg is projected to face Chris Wilson of Portland, Oregon, at at UFC® 98: Evans vs Machida on Saturday, May 23, in Las Vegas, Nevada. A member of American Kickboxing Academy, the 31-year-old "Kos" is coming off a loss by TKO to Paulo Thiago at UFC® 95: Sanchez vs Stevenson in February.
March 16, 2009
LionHeart Management is proud to announce the signing of professional fighter David J Sachs. At only 26-years-old, and with over 17 years of Martial Arts training, Sachs has built a solid foundation to get to the top of the MMA world. His martial arts credentials include BJJ Blue Belt, 2nd Degree Black Belt in Nejad Martial Arts, 5 years of wrestling and 4 years of boxing. Sachs holds a 4-1 professional record in MMA, which includes the Ring of Combat Featherweight Championship and USKBA Featherweight Championship. Sachs currently fights at 145, but is looking to make the move to 135. The native of Washington, Pennsylvania, earned a B.S. in Exercise Science from Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania in 2006. He is an ACSM Health Fitness Instructor and currently studying for C.S.C.S., P.E.S. A consumate athlete, Sachs says, "basically my life centers around sports. Mornings include training professional mixed martial artists. Afternoons I provide private and small group strength coaching for athletes ranging from high school to professional. In the evenings I teach and train at the Pittsburgh Fight Club," where he teaches the advanced conditioning classes and helps teach and train in the MMA skills class. Sachs is currently training in Florida at American Top Team. Chad Dubin, Owner of LionHeart Management said, "We are excited to have Dave join the LionHeart team. Not only is he a very exciting, well rounded fighter with a ton of potential, he is not afraid to train hard and get himself into great shape for every fight. We are looking forward to his future."
In other LionHeart news, Biff Walizer will face Adam Cunningham on Saturday, March 28, at Extreme Challenge in Atlantic City, New Jersey, and Phil Davis will face Cody Donovan of Jacksons MMA/High Altitude in Denver, Colorado, on Saturday, April 25, at Ultimate Warrior Challenge in Fairfax, Virginia.
The Man Up, You Sissy Submission Grappling Tournament was held yesterday at the Rosendo Diaz Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Telford. Competitors from five of the RGDA-PA academies were in attendence. The tournament offered divisions for the beginner and intermediate competitor in four weight classes. Jeff Giagnocavo, Nick Ingenito and Dustin Pague of Berks County BJJ, Rob Shover of Harrisburg BJJ, Bill Mann of Rosendo Diaz Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy, Matthew Pope of Lancaster Family Martial Arts Center and Ed Sheridan of World Class Martial Arts took First Place in their respective divisions. Congratulations to all the competitors.
March 15, 2009
Vicious MMA went 3-1 last night at Asylum Fight League in Sayerville, New Jersey. First into the cage for the Williamsport fight team was Eric "10-Gauge" Steppe defeating Randy Dunn of Bloomsburg MMA. Steppe dominated all three rounds with takedowns, submission attempts, and strikes to the body. Judges awarded all 3 rounds to Steppe for the unanimous decision victory. Second up was John Flock, victorious in his MMA debut over Naheem Selby of Vita Saana Assassin. Flock also used some superior wrestling skills to take down Selby and control and strike to win the unanimous decision. Third into battle was Josh "Florida Boy" Aarons, who fought hard against Jovany "The Submission Magician" Alvarez of TSMMA, but late in the third round Alvarez lived up to his nickname and sunk a deep armbar that Aarons worked to escape but was forced to tap. Last was Jason Moore, who is coming off a unanimous decision loss to Eric Purcell in February, and was very hungry. He fought undefeated Rex O'Corr of Chuck Jewell and defeated him at just 0:56 of round one by way of submission armbar.
March 14, 2009
After moving up to heavyweight for his UFC® debut in February at UFC® 95: Sanchez vs Stevenson, Williamstown-native Mike Ciesnolevicz is expected to make his return to the Octagon® and the lightheavyweight division at UFC® 97: Redemption on April 18, facing TUF season 8 submission specialist Eliot Marshall from Colorado. The Lock Haven University wrestler showed his superior ground game enroute to an early first round submission victory against Neil Grove in a duel between two UFC® newcomers in an undercard fight seen on SpikeTV from London, England.
March 13, 2009
Insoki Promotions has announced the official card for their inaugural event to be held Saturday, March 21, at the Lehighton Recreation Center in the greater Allentown area. "Inkosi: Genesis" will offer an evening of amateur kickboxing featuring fighters from area academies.
HW 201+ Bubba Naratil (Rat Pack) vs Bill Lang (Xtreme)
MW 153-162.9 Bryan Kimble (Rat Pack) vs Mailk Kamara (CH)
LHW 170-183.9 Dehawn Byrd (Ind) vs Bill Simonetti (Ind)
HW 201+ John Powell (Simrell) vs Dave Kupufnick (X-treme)
LW 133-142.9 Matthew Nieves (Cage) vs Shane Donahue (CH)
LHW 170-183.9 Brian Judge (Simrell) vs Jake Jombocz (Cage)
MW 153-162.9 Allan Wise (Rat Pack) vs Kurt Knight (Utsch)
LHW 170-183.9 Fredo Pimentel (RMA) vs Tracy Smith (Utsch)
MW 153-162.9 Nolan Wiser (TSK) vs Tom Laughlin (Hoover)
LW 133-142.9 Chad Ellis (Hoover) vs Armando Velez (TSK)
Alternate Fights:
SMW 163-169.9 Brian Hawk (RPFS) vs Kevin Myerski (RPFS)
CW under 201 Mike Brewner (RMA) vs Roy Gonzalez (Simrell)
The Lehighton Recreation Center is located at 243 South 8th Street in Lehighton.
March 12, 2009
After 3 months of fundraising and coordination, LionHeart Professional Management & Promotions, Inc. is pleased to announce the establishment of a very unique opportunity in today's world of developing MMA athletes. The LionHeart Training Scholarships will help to fast track a developing fighter's skills by taking them completely out of the workplace and keep them in a gym where they can learn and train MMA as their full time job. LionHeart feels this tool will provide a very competitive advantage to any serious athlete aspiring to become a great professional fighter.
The LionHeart Training Scholarships are available to only serious athletes from any background, that are willing to dedicate their lives to becoming great fighters. Each scholarship would pay for all of the living, training and travel expenses the athlete would incur for at least one full year. The fund is currently big enough to be able to award at least 15 FULL scholarships every year to candidates that apply and meet the proper criteria.
Chad Dubin, owner of LionHeart Professional Management & Promotions, believes the scholarship fund allows fighters to fully focus on their training "I'm excited about the establishment of this fund! I'm convinced that in today's extremely competitive world of MMA, it's almost impossible to succeed at the highest level if you also have to worry about working a regular job and paying the bills. Five years ago it was possible, but today it's a much different sport. Today you must be an expert at four different martial arts disciplines and that requires a ton of time. The catch 22 is a dilemma that many up and coming professional fighters struggle with -- how do you afford to train full time and develop into a fighter ready for the big leagues and for big dollars, when you are still fighting in the small venues with small purses? Unless you have wealthy parents that will support you, or you win the lottery, it is a dilemma with many up and coming fighters."
Dubin went on to say, "our goal is to find the right athletes, that are not posing as tough guys, but are willing to sacrifice and dedicate their lives to being great professional fighters. We want to take these athletes out of the 40 hour workweek and put them into the gym for 40 hours a week. Athletes with the proper mental toughness and dedication, in this environment, will develop at a faster pace as fighters and enable them to reach their goals in a much shorter timeframe."
Any athletes, or trainers with aspiring fighters, that are interested in more details about the LionHeart Training Scholarship Fund can contact Chad Dubin at 814.280.1982 or chad@lionheartfighters.com.
March 11, 2009
Four fighters will represent Williamsport-based Vicious MMA in the cage Saturday, March 14, at Asylum Fight League in Sayerville, New Jersey. Josh "Florida Boy" Aarons, Eric "10-Gauge" Steppe, Jason Moore and John Flock will travel to the Garden State to this weekend. Aarons (1-2-1) will face Jovany Alvarez of TSMMA at super bantamweight. Aarons is coming off his first career win in February against Travis Gause. Steppe (1-0-0) will face Randy Dunn of Bloomsburg MMA at welterweight. Steppe is returning to the cage after a five month layoff and win over Jeremy Pullen in October. Moore (2-2-0) will face Rex O'Corr of Chuck Jewell at heavyweight. Moore is coming off a decision loss to Eric Purcell in his first title fight in February. Flock (0-0-0) will make his MMA debut against newcomer Naheem Selby of Vita Saana Assassin at super cruiserweight.
March 10, 2009
Lancaster Family Martial Arts Center will host a seminar with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and multiple-time world champion Royler Gracie on Saturday, April 4, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at their Mountville academy. Lancaster Family Martial Arts Center is located in the Clipper Magazine Business Park at 3706 Hempland Road. Contact 717.898.6120 or mjweisensee@comcast.net for more information.
March 9, 2009
Rosendo Diaz Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy hosts The Man Up, You Sissy Submission Grappling Tournament on Sunday, March 15, at their Telford location. The tournament will offer divisions for the beginner and intermediate in four weight classes. Entry is just $30.00 per person. Rosendo Diaz Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy is located at 137 North Main Street. Contact 267.476.1858 or heelhook21@aol.com for more information.
March 8, 2009
Sam Oropeza (172) of Fight Factory in Philadelphia defeated Casey Adams (173.5) of Grindhouse MMA in Feasterville via rear naked choke at 1:42 of round one, and Chris Wing (174) of Wings MMA in Trevose defeated Elvin Rodriguez (172.25) of Extreme Performance MMA in New Jersey, via KO punch at 2:16 of round one in New Breed Fighters last night at the Resorts Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
Jason Brilz from Omaha, Nebraska, earned the Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28) win over Tim Boetsch of Team Triple Threat in Sunbury at UFC® 96 last night at the Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio. According to sherdog.com: In Round 1, Boetsch attacks with uppercuts right off the bat while Brilz covers up. Brilz tries for a takedown but isn't close. He wants he fight on the ground and does get Boetsch down, but Boetsch gets up quickly. On the feet, Boetsch looks more comfortable throwing various strikes. Brilz is flat-footed. Boetsch jabbing and following with big uppercuts when Brilz covers up. 10-9 Boetsch. In Round 2, Brilz gets the fight where he needs it -- on the ground. He takes side control and works short elbows to the face and knees to the body. Boetsch tries to roll out, but Brilz controls him well. Brilz is still on top, punching to the body. He tries a guillotine with the arm in, but Boetsch escapes and gets to his feet. 10-9 Brilz. In Round 3, Brilz closes the distance again to start the round, but he can't get a takedown. Still the threat of a takedown has slowed Boetsch's striking. Brilz shoots again and a scramble ensues. Brilz wins the scramble and goes to Boetsch's back. He doesn't mount much offense, but he's in control. Boetsch breaks away, but he's tired and Brilz nullifies the standup by grabbing a single-leg for another takedown. Brilz moves to side mount and mount, where he punches and cuts Boetsch for a strong finish. 10-9 Brilz. The 27-year-old Lock Haven University wrestler is now 2-2 in the Octagon®.
March 7, 2009
Tristate MMA-BJJ in Milford announced today a time change for the Saulo Ribeiro seminar on Saturday, April 25. The time is now 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. The cost is just $125.00 per person prepaid by April 15. The seminar is open to the first 30 people. Privates are not available at this time. Contact tristatebjj@gmail.com or 570.242.4650 for more information.
March 6, 2009
BJJ United in Jenkintown will host a seminar with 3rd Degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt Wander Braga on Thursday, March 19, starting at 7:00 PM. For more information, email wanderbragabjj@gmail.com or BJJUnited@comcast.net.
As we first reported here on February 23, the Pennsylvania State Athletic Commission has approved final regulations for the sport of MMA in PA. The new regulations took effect February 27, which opened the doors for MMA events to held throughout the state. In addition to Pennsylvania-based promoters seeking licensing, the Ultimate Fighting Championships® has confirmed that they will head to Philadelphia before the end of 2009. According to Greg Sirb, Commission Executive Director, events will be added to the offical Commission calendar once approved by the Office. For more information, you can visit the Commission web site, call 717.787.5720 or email Greg Sirb directly.
The Revolution Academy will open a new location in Newtown/Wrightstown with two free classes on Wednesday, March 18 and Thursday, March 19. Wednesday will be Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Thursday will be MMA/Muay Thai. There will be free t-shirts while supplies last. The first scheduled class will be Friday, April 4, at 12:00 PM. It will be a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class. Since there is a high demand for legitimate instruction and training at the Levittown location, Revolution Academy was thrilled when they had the opportunity to open the Newtown/Wrightstown location. Right now many people are just opening schools and saying they are teaching MMA and Brazilian Jiu- Jitsu, which is why you really need to do your research when joining a school. The Revolution Academy 30 DAYS FREE offer allows you to physically train at their academy so you can see first hand that they are a serious training team with qualified instructors. The Revolution Academy has built its positive reputation by word of mouth, and legitimate instruction and training. Students will have dual membership to both academy locations. The current Levittown location is at 5909 Emilie Road. The new Newtown/Wrightstown location is at 591 Durham Road. Their telephone number is 267.580.5109.
March 5, 2009
Sao Paulo, Brazil, is known as a breeding ground for talented young jiu-jitsu fighters. In 2004, when a local named Wilson Reis won the brown belt division of the Mundials, a future in the fight game seemed bright. Add to that a budding and undefeated career in MMA, and the possibilities seemed endless. Upon making the move to Philadelphia in late 2007, however, Reis was surprised to find he had to work construction to make ends meet. After working hard and receiving his black belt from famed Brazilian trainer Roberto Godoi, Reis now trains and teaches at Daddis FC in Philadelphia and BJJ United in Jenkintown. The 24-year-old has also become a force to be reckoned with in the Featherweight division, amassing an undefeated 6-0 record against tough competition. Next month, Bellator Fighting Championships holds its inaugural event at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida. Reis, although not currently scheduled on this card, brings a true Brazilian grappling pedigree and an unmatched intensity to the Featherweight division, and his eyes are firmly set on the Bellator title. For more information, visit www.bellator.com or www.BellatorEspanol.com.
March 4, 2009
The Liberty Bell Judo Club hosts two tournaments in the greater Philadelphia area. The 2009 PA Judo Championships will be held on Saturday, March 14, at Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy, located at 272 South Bryn Mawr Avenue in Bryn Mawr. Information and entry packets are available here. The 22nd Annual Liberty Bell Championships will be held Saturday, April 4 and Sunday, April 5, at Lincoln High School, located at Ryan and Rowland Streets in Philadelphia. Information and entry packets are available here.
March 3, 2009
While no MMA events are offically approved by the Pennsylvania State Athletic Commission at this time, that has not stopped perspective promoters from scheduling dates, securing venues, negotiating with fighters, selling tickets and talking with the media -- all in anticipation of their event being approved by the Commission, which would include the date and eligibility of fighters. Central Pennsylvania Warrior Challenge had announced a (pro/am) MMA event for April 25 at the York Holiday Inn and Conference Center, but was made to change their date (and venue) due to scheduling conflicts with other events. Palmerton-based Insoki Promotions has a kickboxing event proposed for that Saturday at the Lehighton Recreation Center in Allentown and ESPN MMA is looking to the State College masses to support an event Friday, April 24. Insoki is expected to add MMA to their existing events or transition over to full MMA events. And with Pennsylvania-based Eddie Alvarez from Philadelphia Fight Factory and Wilson Reis from Daddis FC/BJJ United on the active roster of Bellator Fighting Championships, which has TV rights under ESPN MMA, as well as the success of the UFC and PPV buys in State College, they would be a natural fit for an event in Pennsylvania. Central Pennsylvania Warrior Challenge has changed their date to Sunday, April 19, and their location to Wisehaven Banquet Hall in York. The Commission has approved an amateur kickboxing event for Saturday, April 18, at the Hamburg Fieldhouse in Hamburg. Only events listed on the SAC Official Calendar are approved. For more information, you can visit the Commission web site, call 717.787.5720 or email Greg Sirb.
Bloomsburg Mixed Martial Arts will host a seminar with 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu founder Eddie "The Twister" Bravo on Saturday, March 21, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at their Bloomsburg academy. His style focuses on constant pressure from unorthodox positions. The Jean-Jacques Machado Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt will teach his Twister Control and Rubber Guard. Pre-registration until March 7 is only $125 and after March 7 is just $150. For more information or to secure your spot, contact darkside570@hotmail.com or 570.204.9991. Bloomsburg Mixed Martial Arts is located at 136 East 6th Street in Bloomsburg.
March 2, 2009
Braden Bice (6-8) of Bice MMA in Mercer defeated freestyle wrestling state champion Jon Gonzalez from Iowa by omoplata/arm bar at just 1:34 of round one Saturday night in King of the Cage at the Northern Cross Casino in Walker, Minnesota.
March 1, 2009
Tim Boetsch (8-2) of Team Triple Threat in Sunbury is scheduled to face Jason Brilz (16-1-1) from Nebraska at UFC® 96 this Saturday, March 7, at the Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio. This will be the fourth trip to the UFC for Boetsch, a Lock Haven University wrestler. The 27-year-old debuted in February 2008 with a first-round TKO win over David Heath, but was less fortunate in his April 2008 return to the Octagon, losing by TKO to Matt Hamill and "The Barbarian" bounced back in September 2008 with a quick win over Mike Patt. Boetsch is an IFL veteran. Brilz, a University of Nebraska wrestler, returns to the UFC for his second fight. The 33-year-old firefighter debuted with a second-round TKO win over Brad Morris in September 2008. Brilz is on a 5-year winning streak, with wins over UFC veterans Alex Schoenauer and Jason MacDonald.
THE GOOD FIGHT: Tournament of Brotherly Love is scheduled for Friday, March 20 and Saturday, March 21 at Philadelphia Biblical University in Langhorne. The 2-Day tournament will feature both Gi and No-Gi divisions and will follow a single elimination format with a consolation round to ensure every competitor will grapple at least two matches per division they sign up for. Divisions include Kids, Teens, Men’s Adult, Masters and Women’s Adult. The PRO-JITSU Gi Championships will take place Friday, while all Gi and No-Gi divisions will be on Saturday. For more information, including early bird registration, go to www.ProJitsu.tv or call 856.343.4722. Philadelphia Biblical University is located at 200 Manor Avenue.
Eddie Alvarez arrived in Florida this afternoon for the inaugural Bellator Fighting Championships at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino this Friday, April 3. A highly respected fighter in Japan, and sought after by northeast U.S. promoters for his ability to sell-out up to a quarter of the venue, the Philadelphia Fight Factory stand-out is looking at this tournament as his shot to show people in the U.S. what he has. Understanding the importance to impress the Hispanic people here, a win Friday for the 25-year-old lightweight will go a long way to boosting his recognition in the United States. Michael Woods with ESPN.com recently profiled Alvarez. Read The Article Here.
Due to a conflict of events with the venue, the organizers of the ADCC North American Trials were forced to change the dates of the East Coast trials. The new dates for the ADCC North American East Coast Trials are June 13 and 14. Visit www.adccusa.com for more information.
Harrisburg-native Dustin Pague is coming off a 45 second first round submission win this past weekend at Southern Fight League in North Carolina. His second in as many fights. Made to travel out of state to fight, the multiple amateur title champion is stoked about legislation recently signed legalizing MMA in PA. Using the gifts God has given him, the recent Man Up, You Sissy tournament champion has an overall MMA record of 11 wins and 4 loses, since making his MMA debut in February 2006, with 10 of those wins by submission. ADCC News had an opportunity to talk with the former professional skateboarder turned professional mixed martial artist after his win. Read The Interview Here.
March 30, 2009
Rosendo Diaz and Brett Hoover recognized several members of the academy who have worked hard to improve their skills. Congratulations must go out to the following RDBJJ members. Roy Stoflet earned a 3rd stripe, white belt, Bill Mann earned his 4th stripe, white belt, Abhay Kunwar earned his blue belt, Mike Omensetter earned his 1st stripe, blue belt, Fred Braunsberg earned his 2nd stripe, purple belt.
Berks County Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy hosted Rosendo Diaz at their Sinking Spring academy for a workshop Friday. At the end of the workshop, Diaz promoted some well deserving individuals. Jason Howell, Dave Riddle and Jack Allen each earned the rank of blue belt.
March 29, 2009
Pittsburgh-native James Brasco (2-1) fighting out of Team Popovitch in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, steps up on just five days notice in a middleweight non-tournament fight in the inaugural Bellator Fighting Championships this Friday, April 3, at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida. The 2007 World Jiu-Jitsu Brown Belt Champion made his MMA debut defeating William Parker by first round TKO at World Extreme Fighting on August 10, 2007. Passed up by the UFC for Season 7 of The Ultimate Fighter, Brasco went on to to defeat Gareth Joseph by Split Decision at Cage Warriors USA on March 29, 2008. The three-time NCAA Eastern Regional and AAU Grand National champion in both freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling fell to Yosmany Cabezas by first round TKO at Real Fighting Championships on September 19, 2008. Now, the 34-year-old six-time N.A.G.A. champion and ADCC North American Trial Invitee steps back into the cage after another seven month lay-off from competition.
Extreme Challenge MMA returned to Atlantic City last night at the Trump Marina, featuring MMA professionals from Pennsylvania. Tara LaRosa (124.5) of Philadelphia Fight Factory defeated Sally Krumdiak (124.5) of Pearson’s Martial Arts in Washington, via tap out due to kimura at 1:45 of round three. Mike Johnson (184.3) of Philadelphia Fight Factory lost to James Silva (184.8) via TKO referee stoppage due to strikes at 1:26 of round two. Johnson is suspended indefinately pending x-rays of ribs and clearance of same. Matt Kocher (168.6) of LionHeart in State College lost to Duncannon-native Troy Maxwell (170.2) of Extreme Performance MMA in New Jersey, via rear naked choke at 2:51 of round two. Biff Walizer (155.2) of LionHeart in State College lost to Kevin Roddy (152.1) via triangle choke at 3:19 of round two. Roddy is suspended pending healing of left eyebrow laceration.
March 28, 2009
Dustin Pague of Hulstine Athletics in Harrisburg defeated Charles Cooper from Oregon, by ankle lock submission tonight at Southern Fight League: G-Vegas Throwdown in Greenville, North Carolina. The 21-year-old knocked Cooper down with a left hook, followed by a knee to the head that caused a cut before breaking his ankle at just 0:45 of the first round. This is the second straight win by submission for the Pennsylvanian in North Carolina compeititon. Pague is coming off a first place victory after five matches at the Man Up, You Sissy submission grappling tournament on March 15 in Telford.
March 27, 2009
Virginia-based Gladiator Fight Club is advertising a professional MMA event for June 27 at Temple University in Philadelphia. "I need registrations on the GFC website for fighters wanting to participate in the event," said promoter Christopher A. McCabe, "I need four extremely well-versed well known fighters for the top two bouts" for GFC VII: Ultimate Victory. Interested fighters should contact Chris directly at 540.529.8300.
Bellator Fighting Championships announced today that Bellator IV, the fourth event of the highly anticipated 12-week tournament series airing on ESPN Deportes, will be held in Colorado Springs, Colorado, on Friday, April 24, and not State College, as previously suggested with approval pending by the Pennsylvania State Athletic Commission as recent as March 23. The Semi-Final round of the World Championship Lightweight Tournament will be featured along with a selection of heavyweights.
Braden "The Bull Shark" Bice of Bice MMA in Mercer will face Josh Stansbury of Team Next Level in Ohio, on Saturday, April 11, at American Hardcore MMA in Warren, Ohio. Bice recently defeated freestyle wrestling state champion Jon Gonzalez from Iowa by submission early in the first round at King of the Cage in Minnesota. Stansbury claimed the Next Level Fighting amateur heavyweight championship with a first round KO in August 2006, and the NAAFS championship in December 2007. The 10-2 multiple amateur champion will make his professional debut against Bice.
Due to an increasing number of requests for DVDs, Washington-based Cage of Chaos has formed a partnership with Pittsburgh-based Dreaming Ronin Films, LLC to film their events and turn around raw footage DVDs the same night. Cage of Chaos was developed by Dave Klick in March 2006. Dreaming Ronin Films owner
March 26, 2009
Inkosi Promotions held their inaugural event on Saturday, March 21, at the Lehighton Recreation Center in the greater Allentown area. "Inkosi: Genesis" offered nine amateur kickboxing bouts featuring fighters from area academies.
FIGHT #1) SMW 163-169.9
Brian Hawk (RPFS) vs Kevin Myerski (RPFS)
Winner: Myerski (Round 2 Injury Stoppage)
FIGHT #2) WW 143-152.9
Nolan Wiser (TSK) vs A.J. Laughlin (Hoover)
Winner: Wiser (Decision)
FIGHT #3) LHW 170-183.9
Brian Judge (Simrell) vs Brian Simonetti (Ind.)
Winner: Judge (KO Round 3)
FIGHT #4) CW 184-200
Roy Gonzalez (Simrell) vs Jake Gombocz (Cage)
Winner: Gombocz (Decision)
FIGHT #5) LW 133-142.9
Chad Ellis (Hoover) vs Armando Velez (TSK)
Winner: Velez (Decision)
FIGHT #6) LW 133-142.9
Matthew Nieves (Cage) vs Shane Donahue (CHMT)
Winner: Donahue (Decision)
FIGHT #7) HW 201+
John Powell (Simrell) vs Dave Kupufnick (X-treme)
Winner: Powell (2nd Round Ref Stoppage)
FIGHT # 8) CW 184-200
Mike Brewner (RMA) vs Tracy Smith (Utsch)
WINNER: DRAW
FIGHT #9) SMW 163-169.9
Bryan Kimble (Rat Pack) vs Kyle Hillman (CHMT)
Winner: Hillman (Decision)
Last minute changes have affected multiple Pennsylvania-based fighters on the upcoming Extreme Challenge MMA card for this Saturday, March 28, at the Trump Marina in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Off the card are Tuan Pham of Philadelphia-based Fight Firm and Lock Haven University wrestler Blair Tugman of Ultimate MMA in Connecticut. Still on the card, but with different opponents are Biff Walizer of State College-based LionHeart, Mike Johnson of Philadelphia Fight Factory and Duncannon-native Troy Maxwell of Extreme Performance MMA in New Jersey. Newly added is Maxwell opponent Matt Kocher of State College-based LionHeart.
March 25, 2009
Eddie Alvarez (15-2) of Philadelphia Fight Factory received a new opponent for the inaugural Bellator Fighting Championships MMA event scheduled for Friday, April 3, at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida. Greg Loughran (18-11) from Progressive Combat in Northern Ireland, steps up on just 10 days notice to take on the former bodogFIGHT champion in a featured lightweight tournament fight. Visit www.bellator.com for more information.
The Pennsylvania State Athletic Commission has approved Iron Will Fighting Championship for Saturday, May 16. The event is scheduled for the Cambria County War Memorial in Johnstown, home of EliteXC veteran and former Battle Cage Xtreme champion, Carlton Haselrig (2-1). The fight card is currently being developed. If you are interested in fighting on this card, please fill out the Fighter Registration. More information to follow.
March 24, 2009
Tristate MMA-BJJ will host a seminar with 6X World Jiu-Jitsu champion Saulo Ribeiro at their Milford academy on Saturday, April 25, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. The cost is just $125.00 per person prepaid by April 15. The seminar is open to the first 30 people. Contact tristatebjj@gmail.com or 570.242.4650 for more information.
Ultimate Grapplers Challenge VIII: Clash of the Titans is scheduled for Saturday, April 11, at Champion Sportsplex in Brodheadsville. The tournament will offer more than 100 divisions in Gi and No-Gi for men, women, teens and children. Weigh-ins start at 8:00 AM. Call 610.441.4559 for more information. Champion Sportsplex is located at 9 Pilgrim Way.
Lancaster Family Martial Arts Center will host a seminar with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and multiple-time world champion Royler Gracie on Saturday, April 4, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at their Mountville academy. Lancaster Family Martial Arts Center is located in the Clipper Magazine Business Park at 3706 Hempland Road. Contact 717.898.6120 or mjweisensee@comcast.net for more information.
March 23, 2009
The Pennsylvania State Athletic Commission officially announced the first approved Pro-Am MMA in PA event in an email to MMAinPA.com today. Central Pennsylvania Warrior Challenge is scheduled for Sunday, April 19, at the Wisehaven Banquet & Expo Center in York. No card has been approved by the Commission according to the Official Certified MMA Registry of the Association of Boxing Commissions, which is utilized by the Commission, according to Executive Director, Greg Sirb. The Wisehaven Banquet Hall is located at 2985 East Prospect Road. Sirb also informed MMAinPA.com that Bellator Fighting Championships is pending for April 24 in State College, as originally suggested here on March 3, King's Promotions is pending for May 30 in Reading with a Pro Boxing - Amateur MMA event, and nothing is definite on the UFC for August 8 in Philadelphia.
The UFC is taking applications and inviting fighters with an established professional record to an open casting call for Season 10 of “The Ultimate Fighter,” on Monday, April 6, at the Marriott Seattle Airport in Seattle, Washington. The series will be casting fighters in the middleweight (185), lightheavyweight (205) and heavyweight (265) divisions. The tryouts consist of a combined grappling session, hitting pads, as well as a series of on camera interviews. This is the first time the UFC is considering using three weight classes on the reality series. An online copy of the fighter application can be downloaded in Adobe format here. The Marriott Seattle Airport is located at 3201 176th Street.
The Laurel State Martial Arts Championships will be held this Saturday, March 28, at the White Oak Athletic Association, offering a No-Gi grappling tournament directed by CGS. Weigh-Ins are 9:30 AM and the Competition at 11:00 AM. The cost is just $35.00 per person cash only at the door. The White Oak Athletic Association is located at 1600 Lower Heckman Road in White Oak.
Berks County BJJ will host a special workshop with RGDA Black Belt Rosendo Diaz on Friday, March 27, from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM at their Sinking Spring academy. The cost is just $40.00 per person. Call 610.621.9202 or email SMock76055@comcast.net for more information or to register.
Congratulations to Jeff Giaconova of Berks County BJJ in Sinking Spring for taking the Gold this weekend at THE GOOD FIGHT: Tournament of Brotherly Love in Philadelphia.
March 22, 2009
Lion-Do Fight Club made the long trek to Dayton, Ohio, for the OXF St. Patty's Day Smackdown show run by the UFC's Mike Patt. Lion-Do middleweight Eli Garshnick improved his record to (5-1) with a third round submission win over Chris Mierzwiak a Jorgel Gurgel fighter via rear naked choke. Garshnick was a three-time All-American wrestler at UPJ and Mierzwiak wrestled at Miami Ohio. This is the second consecutive title win by rear naked choke for the New Florence-native. In February, the 24-year-old earned the MMA in the Valley 15 middleweight championship defeating the previously unbeaten Joe Harrison (3-1) of Coalition Fight Team in West Virginia. Garshnick will now advance in the Mid-American Fight Series Middleweight Tournament against Tyler Beckley (5-1) who fights out of Fighters Guild of Findlay. Beckley is the current OXF Middleweight Champion. The belt will be on the line as will a spot in the finals of the MAFS Tournament and a Pro contract. Garshnick and Beckley will clash at the OXF - Demolition show in Dayton, Ohio on May 30th at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds.
Matt Makowski of Daddis FC in Philadelphia will face Aaron Tregear of London, Canada, in a non-tournament lightweight fight in Bellator Fighting Championships on Friday, April 10, at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, Connecticut. Both fighters have seen success in the welterweight division. Makowski, an EliteXC veteran, is coming off a Unanimous Decision win over Sergio Vinagre at Ring of Combat in February. Tregear is coming off a TKO win over Joel Powell in the former TKO in October.
March 21, 2009
The Pennsylvania State Athletic Commission will first and foremost utilize the Official Certified MMA Registry of the Association of Boxing Commissions (ABC), which is www.mixedmartialarts.com, in determining the eligibility of match ups presented to the SAC by promoters. Although approved by the ABC, the database is flawed. The database was established years ago, then obtained by the current site. Information contained in the database is received from multiple sources. State Commissions (listed as Official), as well as the local promoter (listed as NSF), for example, submit event results to the database.
You will find, for example, Anthony Williams listed two times, (one and two), as there are two fighters with the same name. Up to August 2008, the fight records of the two Williams' were mixed. You will find Mathew Beitz listed two times, (one and two), but in this case, they are one in the same fighter. You will find Dustin Pague listed two times, (one and two), with one record blank, and the other record with amateur and professional results. In this case, the three NSF records under "professional," are actually "amateur" fights. It is a work in progress.
All fighters are encouraged to view their respective record, and take action to make any corrections necessary for accuracy. This can only benefit the fighter when being scouted by promoters, and aid the SAC is verification of records in approving a fight. Fighters also have an opportunity to upload pictures, videos, news about themselves and interviews. Contact chris@mixedmartialarts.com with any updates.
March 20, 2009
Extreme Challenge MMA returns to Atlantic City on Saturday, March 28, in the Grand Cayman at the Trump Marina offering 12 fights featuring MMA professionals from Pennsylvania. Top-rated Tara LaRosa of Philadelphia Fight Factory takes on Sally Krumdiak of Pearson’s Martial Arts in Washington. LaRosa defeated Alexis Davis of RGDA in Canada via TKO at War at the Shore in January. Krumdiak has won five straight since losing her pro debut. Biff Walizer of State College-based LionHeart takes on Adam Cunningham from Indiana and Mike Johnson of Fight Factory takes on Jason Christie. Duncannon-native Troy Maxwell of Extreme Performance MMA in New Jersey takes on Jonathan Evans and Lock Haven University wrestler Blair Tugman of Ultimate MMA in Connecticut is scheduled to return to the cage after an 11 month lay-off. First bout will be at 9:00 PM. Tickets can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com.
March 19, 2009
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt Anderson de Souza is available for seminars through June. You can learn from the multiple world title champion, which includes the 2008 Mundials, the 2006 and 2007 Brazilian Nationals and the 2007 Pan-Ams, for as low as $40.00 per person. For more information, call 570.429.2404 or email joejitsu1@verizon.net.
Braden "The Bull Shark" Bice of Bice MMA in Mercer will face 2X Indiana State wrestling champion Anton Talamantes of Team Truth in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, in a heavyweight fight at the inaugural Absolute Fighting Alliance on June 6. Bice recently defeated freestyle wrestling state champion Jon Gonzalez from Iowa by submission early in the first round at King of the Cage in Minnesota.
March 18, 2009
LionHeart MMA is proud to announce a special training opportunity with Ricardo De La Riva Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt Tony Passos on Sunday, March 22 and Monday, March 23, at their State College facility. Passos is part of a select group of De La Riva Black Belts, which includes professional MMA champions such as Antonio Rogério "Minotoro" Nogueira and Antonio Rodrigo "Minotauro" Nogueira. Passos started training in BJJ in 1998 and earned his Black Belt in 2007. Train with one of the best BJJ instructors on the east coast on Sunday from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM and Monday from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM. Private lessons are available before or after group instruction. Cost is free to current LionHeart Fitness members and just $10.00/person per session for non-members. LionHeart MMA is located at 127 Sowers Street.
Godoi Jiu-Jitsu black belt and undefeated mixed martial artist Wilson Reis is expected to make his Bellator Fighting Championships debut on Friday, April 10, at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, Connecticut. The Philadelphia transplant is expected to face Henry Martinez of Jackson's MMA in New Mexico, in a featherweight tournament bout to be broadcast Saturday, April 11, on ESPN Deportes.
Lion-Do Fight Club middleweight and former UPJ All-American wrestler and Judo black belt Eli Garshnick (4-1) will be fighting in Dayton, Ohio, this Saturday, March 21, at the OXF St. Patty's Day Smackdown at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds. Garshnick will be part of an eight-man tournament for a professional contract. The New Florence-native will take on Jerry Birt (3-3) in a #1 contender elimination bout. If Garshnick wins, he would take on the winner of the undefeated James Blackburn (5-0) vs Tyler Beckley (4-1) fight for the OXF Middleweight title. The second round of the tournament would be on May 30.
March 17, 2009
Williamstown-native Mike Ciesnolevicz of Miletich Fighting Systems in Iowa is off the April 18 UFC® 97: Redemption card due to injury. Stepping up to face submission specialist Eliot Marshall of Boulder, Colorado, is fellow TUF Season 8 finalist and Royler Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt Vinicius Magalhaes of Pro-Am MMA Training Center in Murrieta, California.
The Ultimate Fighting Championship® is keeping Pennsylvania-native fighters busy the next few months. Carmelo Marrero of Douglassville is scheduled to face Ryan Bader of Tempe, Arizona, at UFC® Fight Night™: Condit vs Kampmann on Wednesday, April 1, in Nashville, Tennessee. A member of American Top Team, the 28-year-old Marrero is coming off a Split Decision win over Steve Stienbeiss of Tempe, Arizona, at WEC® Faber vs Brown in November. Brian Stann of Scranton is scheduled to face Krzysztof Soszynski of Canada at UFC® 97: Redemption on April 18 in Montreal, Canada. A member of Greg Jackson's MMA, the 28-year-old, Stann, known as "All American," is making his UFC® debut after massing a 5-1 professional record in the WEC. Josh Koscheck of Waynesburg is projected to face Chris Wilson of Portland, Oregon, at at UFC® 98: Evans vs Machida on Saturday, May 23, in Las Vegas, Nevada. A member of American Kickboxing Academy, the 31-year-old "Kos" is coming off a loss by TKO to Paulo Thiago at UFC® 95: Sanchez vs Stevenson in February.
March 16, 2009
LionHeart Management is proud to announce the signing of professional fighter David J Sachs. At only 26-years-old, and with over 17 years of Martial Arts training, Sachs has built a solid foundation to get to the top of the MMA world. His martial arts credentials include BJJ Blue Belt, 2nd Degree Black Belt in Nejad Martial Arts, 5 years of wrestling and 4 years of boxing. Sachs holds a 4-1 professional record in MMA, which includes the Ring of Combat Featherweight Championship and USKBA Featherweight Championship. Sachs currently fights at 145, but is looking to make the move to 135. The native of Washington, Pennsylvania, earned a B.S. in Exercise Science from Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania in 2006. He is an ACSM Health Fitness Instructor and currently studying for C.S.C.S., P.E.S. A consumate athlete, Sachs says, "basically my life centers around sports. Mornings include training professional mixed martial artists. Afternoons I provide private and small group strength coaching for athletes ranging from high school to professional. In the evenings I teach and train at the Pittsburgh Fight Club," where he teaches the advanced conditioning classes and helps teach and train in the MMA skills class. Sachs is currently training in Florida at American Top Team. Chad Dubin, Owner of LionHeart Management said, "We are excited to have Dave join the LionHeart team. Not only is he a very exciting, well rounded fighter with a ton of potential, he is not afraid to train hard and get himself into great shape for every fight. We are looking forward to his future."
In other LionHeart news, Biff Walizer will face Adam Cunningham on Saturday, March 28, at Extreme Challenge in Atlantic City, New Jersey, and Phil Davis will face Cody Donovan of Jacksons MMA/High Altitude in Denver, Colorado, on Saturday, April 25, at Ultimate Warrior Challenge in Fairfax, Virginia.
The Man Up, You Sissy Submission Grappling Tournament was held yesterday at the Rosendo Diaz Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Telford. Competitors from five of the RGDA-PA academies were in attendence. The tournament offered divisions for the beginner and intermediate competitor in four weight classes. Jeff Giagnocavo, Nick Ingenito and Dustin Pague of Berks County BJJ, Rob Shover of Harrisburg BJJ, Bill Mann of Rosendo Diaz Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy, Matthew Pope of Lancaster Family Martial Arts Center and Ed Sheridan of World Class Martial Arts took First Place in their respective divisions. Congratulations to all the competitors.
March 15, 2009
Vicious MMA went 3-1 last night at Asylum Fight League in Sayerville, New Jersey. First into the cage for the Williamsport fight team was Eric "10-Gauge" Steppe defeating Randy Dunn of Bloomsburg MMA. Steppe dominated all three rounds with takedowns, submission attempts, and strikes to the body. Judges awarded all 3 rounds to Steppe for the unanimous decision victory. Second up was John Flock, victorious in his MMA debut over Naheem Selby of Vita Saana Assassin. Flock also used some superior wrestling skills to take down Selby and control and strike to win the unanimous decision. Third into battle was Josh "Florida Boy" Aarons, who fought hard against Jovany "The Submission Magician" Alvarez of TSMMA, but late in the third round Alvarez lived up to his nickname and sunk a deep armbar that Aarons worked to escape but was forced to tap. Last was Jason Moore, who is coming off a unanimous decision loss to Eric Purcell in February, and was very hungry. He fought undefeated Rex O'Corr of Chuck Jewell and defeated him at just 0:56 of round one by way of submission armbar.
March 14, 2009
After moving up to heavyweight for his UFC® debut in February at UFC® 95: Sanchez vs Stevenson, Williamstown-native Mike Ciesnolevicz is expected to make his return to the Octagon® and the lightheavyweight division at UFC® 97: Redemption on April 18, facing TUF season 8 submission specialist Eliot Marshall from Colorado. The Lock Haven University wrestler showed his superior ground game enroute to an early first round submission victory against Neil Grove in a duel between two UFC® newcomers in an undercard fight seen on SpikeTV from London, England.
March 13, 2009
Insoki Promotions has announced the official card for their inaugural event to be held Saturday, March 21, at the Lehighton Recreation Center in the greater Allentown area. "Inkosi: Genesis" will offer an evening of amateur kickboxing featuring fighters from area academies.
HW 201+ Bubba Naratil (Rat Pack) vs Bill Lang (Xtreme)
MW 153-162.9 Bryan Kimble (Rat Pack) vs Mailk Kamara (CH)
LHW 170-183.9 Dehawn Byrd (Ind) vs Bill Simonetti (Ind)
HW 201+ John Powell (Simrell) vs Dave Kupufnick (X-treme)
LW 133-142.9 Matthew Nieves (Cage) vs Shane Donahue (CH)
LHW 170-183.9 Brian Judge (Simrell) vs Jake Jombocz (Cage)
MW 153-162.9 Allan Wise (Rat Pack) vs Kurt Knight (Utsch)
LHW 170-183.9 Fredo Pimentel (RMA) vs Tracy Smith (Utsch)
MW 153-162.9 Nolan Wiser (TSK) vs Tom Laughlin (Hoover)
LW 133-142.9 Chad Ellis (Hoover) vs Armando Velez (TSK)
Alternate Fights:
SMW 163-169.9 Brian Hawk (RPFS) vs Kevin Myerski (RPFS)
CW under 201 Mike Brewner (RMA) vs Roy Gonzalez (Simrell)
The Lehighton Recreation Center is located at 243 South 8th Street in Lehighton.
March 12, 2009
After 3 months of fundraising and coordination, LionHeart Professional Management & Promotions, Inc. is pleased to announce the establishment of a very unique opportunity in today's world of developing MMA athletes. The LionHeart Training Scholarships will help to fast track a developing fighter's skills by taking them completely out of the workplace and keep them in a gym where they can learn and train MMA as their full time job. LionHeart feels this tool will provide a very competitive advantage to any serious athlete aspiring to become a great professional fighter.
The LionHeart Training Scholarships are available to only serious athletes from any background, that are willing to dedicate their lives to becoming great fighters. Each scholarship would pay for all of the living, training and travel expenses the athlete would incur for at least one full year. The fund is currently big enough to be able to award at least 15 FULL scholarships every year to candidates that apply and meet the proper criteria.
Chad Dubin, owner of LionHeart Professional Management & Promotions, believes the scholarship fund allows fighters to fully focus on their training "I'm excited about the establishment of this fund! I'm convinced that in today's extremely competitive world of MMA, it's almost impossible to succeed at the highest level if you also have to worry about working a regular job and paying the bills. Five years ago it was possible, but today it's a much different sport. Today you must be an expert at four different martial arts disciplines and that requires a ton of time. The catch 22 is a dilemma that many up and coming professional fighters struggle with -- how do you afford to train full time and develop into a fighter ready for the big leagues and for big dollars, when you are still fighting in the small venues with small purses? Unless you have wealthy parents that will support you, or you win the lottery, it is a dilemma with many up and coming fighters."
Dubin went on to say, "our goal is to find the right athletes, that are not posing as tough guys, but are willing to sacrifice and dedicate their lives to being great professional fighters. We want to take these athletes out of the 40 hour workweek and put them into the gym for 40 hours a week. Athletes with the proper mental toughness and dedication, in this environment, will develop at a faster pace as fighters and enable them to reach their goals in a much shorter timeframe."
Any athletes, or trainers with aspiring fighters, that are interested in more details about the LionHeart Training Scholarship Fund can contact Chad Dubin at 814.280.1982 or chad@lionheartfighters.com.
March 11, 2009
Four fighters will represent Williamsport-based Vicious MMA in the cage Saturday, March 14, at Asylum Fight League in Sayerville, New Jersey. Josh "Florida Boy" Aarons, Eric "10-Gauge" Steppe, Jason Moore and John Flock will travel to the Garden State to this weekend. Aarons (1-2-1) will face Jovany Alvarez of TSMMA at super bantamweight. Aarons is coming off his first career win in February against Travis Gause. Steppe (1-0-0) will face Randy Dunn of Bloomsburg MMA at welterweight. Steppe is returning to the cage after a five month layoff and win over Jeremy Pullen in October. Moore (2-2-0) will face Rex O'Corr of Chuck Jewell at heavyweight. Moore is coming off a decision loss to Eric Purcell in his first title fight in February. Flock (0-0-0) will make his MMA debut against newcomer Naheem Selby of Vita Saana Assassin at super cruiserweight.
March 10, 2009
Lancaster Family Martial Arts Center will host a seminar with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and multiple-time world champion Royler Gracie on Saturday, April 4, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at their Mountville academy. Lancaster Family Martial Arts Center is located in the Clipper Magazine Business Park at 3706 Hempland Road. Contact 717.898.6120 or mjweisensee@comcast.net for more information.
March 9, 2009
Rosendo Diaz Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy hosts The Man Up, You Sissy Submission Grappling Tournament on Sunday, March 15, at their Telford location. The tournament will offer divisions for the beginner and intermediate in four weight classes. Entry is just $30.00 per person. Rosendo Diaz Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy is located at 137 North Main Street. Contact 267.476.1858 or heelhook21@aol.com for more information.
March 8, 2009
Sam Oropeza (172) of Fight Factory in Philadelphia defeated Casey Adams (173.5) of Grindhouse MMA in Feasterville via rear naked choke at 1:42 of round one, and Chris Wing (174) of Wings MMA in Trevose defeated Elvin Rodriguez (172.25) of Extreme Performance MMA in New Jersey, via KO punch at 2:16 of round one in New Breed Fighters last night at the Resorts Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
Jason Brilz from Omaha, Nebraska, earned the Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28) win over Tim Boetsch of Team Triple Threat in Sunbury at UFC® 96 last night at the Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio. According to sherdog.com: In Round 1, Boetsch attacks with uppercuts right off the bat while Brilz covers up. Brilz tries for a takedown but isn't close. He wants he fight on the ground and does get Boetsch down, but Boetsch gets up quickly. On the feet, Boetsch looks more comfortable throwing various strikes. Brilz is flat-footed. Boetsch jabbing and following with big uppercuts when Brilz covers up. 10-9 Boetsch. In Round 2, Brilz gets the fight where he needs it -- on the ground. He takes side control and works short elbows to the face and knees to the body. Boetsch tries to roll out, but Brilz controls him well. Brilz is still on top, punching to the body. He tries a guillotine with the arm in, but Boetsch escapes and gets to his feet. 10-9 Brilz. In Round 3, Brilz closes the distance again to start the round, but he can't get a takedown. Still the threat of a takedown has slowed Boetsch's striking. Brilz shoots again and a scramble ensues. Brilz wins the scramble and goes to Boetsch's back. He doesn't mount much offense, but he's in control. Boetsch breaks away, but he's tired and Brilz nullifies the standup by grabbing a single-leg for another takedown. Brilz moves to side mount and mount, where he punches and cuts Boetsch for a strong finish. 10-9 Brilz. The 27-year-old Lock Haven University wrestler is now 2-2 in the Octagon®.
March 7, 2009
Tristate MMA-BJJ in Milford announced today a time change for the Saulo Ribeiro seminar on Saturday, April 25. The time is now 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. The cost is just $125.00 per person prepaid by April 15. The seminar is open to the first 30 people. Privates are not available at this time. Contact tristatebjj@gmail.com or 570.242.4650 for more information.
March 6, 2009
BJJ United in Jenkintown will host a seminar with 3rd Degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt Wander Braga on Thursday, March 19, starting at 7:00 PM. For more information, email wanderbragabjj@gmail.com or BJJUnited@comcast.net.
As we first reported here on February 23, the Pennsylvania State Athletic Commission has approved final regulations for the sport of MMA in PA. The new regulations took effect February 27, which opened the doors for MMA events to held throughout the state. In addition to Pennsylvania-based promoters seeking licensing, the Ultimate Fighting Championships® has confirmed that they will head to Philadelphia before the end of 2009. According to Greg Sirb, Commission Executive Director, events will be added to the offical Commission calendar once approved by the Office. For more information, you can visit the Commission web site, call 717.787.5720 or email Greg Sirb directly.
The Revolution Academy will open a new location in Newtown/Wrightstown with two free classes on Wednesday, March 18 and Thursday, March 19. Wednesday will be Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Thursday will be MMA/Muay Thai. There will be free t-shirts while supplies last. The first scheduled class will be Friday, April 4, at 12:00 PM. It will be a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class. Since there is a high demand for legitimate instruction and training at the Levittown location, Revolution Academy was thrilled when they had the opportunity to open the Newtown/Wrightstown location. Right now many people are just opening schools and saying they are teaching MMA and Brazilian Jiu- Jitsu, which is why you really need to do your research when joining a school. The Revolution Academy 30 DAYS FREE offer allows you to physically train at their academy so you can see first hand that they are a serious training team with qualified instructors. The Revolution Academy has built its positive reputation by word of mouth, and legitimate instruction and training. Students will have dual membership to both academy locations. The current Levittown location is at 5909 Emilie Road. The new Newtown/Wrightstown location is at 591 Durham Road. Their telephone number is 267.580.5109.
March 5, 2009
Sao Paulo, Brazil, is known as a breeding ground for talented young jiu-jitsu fighters. In 2004, when a local named Wilson Reis won the brown belt division of the Mundials, a future in the fight game seemed bright. Add to that a budding and undefeated career in MMA, and the possibilities seemed endless. Upon making the move to Philadelphia in late 2007, however, Reis was surprised to find he had to work construction to make ends meet. After working hard and receiving his black belt from famed Brazilian trainer Roberto Godoi, Reis now trains and teaches at Daddis FC in Philadelphia and BJJ United in Jenkintown. The 24-year-old has also become a force to be reckoned with in the Featherweight division, amassing an undefeated 6-0 record against tough competition. Next month, Bellator Fighting Championships holds its inaugural event at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida. Reis, although not currently scheduled on this card, brings a true Brazilian grappling pedigree and an unmatched intensity to the Featherweight division, and his eyes are firmly set on the Bellator title. For more information, visit www.bellator.com or www.BellatorEspanol.com.
March 4, 2009
The Liberty Bell Judo Club hosts two tournaments in the greater Philadelphia area. The 2009 PA Judo Championships will be held on Saturday, March 14, at Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy, located at 272 South Bryn Mawr Avenue in Bryn Mawr. Information and entry packets are available here. The 22nd Annual Liberty Bell Championships will be held Saturday, April 4 and Sunday, April 5, at Lincoln High School, located at Ryan and Rowland Streets in Philadelphia. Information and entry packets are available here.
March 3, 2009
While no MMA events are offically approved by the Pennsylvania State Athletic Commission at this time, that has not stopped perspective promoters from scheduling dates, securing venues, negotiating with fighters, selling tickets and talking with the media -- all in anticipation of their event being approved by the Commission, which would include the date and eligibility of fighters. Central Pennsylvania Warrior Challenge had announced a (pro/am) MMA event for April 25 at the York Holiday Inn and Conference Center, but was made to change their date (and venue) due to scheduling conflicts with other events. Palmerton-based Insoki Promotions has a kickboxing event proposed for that Saturday at the Lehighton Recreation Center in Allentown and ESPN MMA is looking to the State College masses to support an event Friday, April 24. Insoki is expected to add MMA to their existing events or transition over to full MMA events. And with Pennsylvania-based Eddie Alvarez from Philadelphia Fight Factory and Wilson Reis from Daddis FC/BJJ United on the active roster of Bellator Fighting Championships, which has TV rights under ESPN MMA, as well as the success of the UFC and PPV buys in State College, they would be a natural fit for an event in Pennsylvania. Central Pennsylvania Warrior Challenge has changed their date to Sunday, April 19, and their location to Wisehaven Banquet Hall in York. The Commission has approved an amateur kickboxing event for Saturday, April 18, at the Hamburg Fieldhouse in Hamburg. Only events listed on the SAC Official Calendar are approved. For more information, you can visit the Commission web site, call 717.787.5720 or email Greg Sirb.
Bloomsburg Mixed Martial Arts will host a seminar with 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu founder Eddie "The Twister" Bravo on Saturday, March 21, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at their Bloomsburg academy. His style focuses on constant pressure from unorthodox positions. The Jean-Jacques Machado Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt will teach his Twister Control and Rubber Guard. Pre-registration until March 7 is only $125 and after March 7 is just $150. For more information or to secure your spot, contact darkside570@hotmail.com or 570.204.9991. Bloomsburg Mixed Martial Arts is located at 136 East 6th Street in Bloomsburg.
March 2, 2009
Braden Bice (6-8) of Bice MMA in Mercer defeated freestyle wrestling state champion Jon Gonzalez from Iowa by omoplata/arm bar at just 1:34 of round one Saturday night in King of the Cage at the Northern Cross Casino in Walker, Minnesota.
March 1, 2009
Tim Boetsch (8-2) of Team Triple Threat in Sunbury is scheduled to face Jason Brilz (16-1-1) from Nebraska at UFC® 96 this Saturday, March 7, at the Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio. This will be the fourth trip to the UFC for Boetsch, a Lock Haven University wrestler. The 27-year-old debuted in February 2008 with a first-round TKO win over David Heath, but was less fortunate in his April 2008 return to the Octagon, losing by TKO to Matt Hamill and "The Barbarian" bounced back in September 2008 with a quick win over Mike Patt. Boetsch is an IFL veteran. Brilz, a University of Nebraska wrestler, returns to the UFC for his second fight. The 33-year-old firefighter debuted with a second-round TKO win over Brad Morris in September 2008. Brilz is on a 5-year winning streak, with wins over UFC veterans Alex Schoenauer and Jason MacDonald.
THE GOOD FIGHT: Tournament of Brotherly Love is scheduled for Friday, March 20 and Saturday, March 21 at Philadelphia Biblical University in Langhorne. The 2-Day tournament will feature both Gi and No-Gi divisions and will follow a single elimination format with a consolation round to ensure every competitor will grapple at least two matches per division they sign up for. Divisions include Kids, Teens, Men’s Adult, Masters and Women’s Adult. The PRO-JITSU Gi Championships will take place Friday, while all Gi and No-Gi divisions will be on Saturday. For more information, including early bird registration, go to www.ProJitsu.tv or call 856.343.4722. Philadelphia Biblical University is located at 200 Manor Avenue.