Monday 15 June 2009

Demarcus Jones to face Scott Jerald

It was today confirmed that new FIGHT! signee Demarcus Jones will tackle 4-0 wrestler, Scott Jerald on July 5th in a light heavyweight bout.

Jones, a skilled BJJ practitioner will have to negate the ground control of Jerald, but this looks to be a match that Team Unleashed member Jones should walk out of with the win.

On the fight announcement, Jerald had the following to say:
I'm happy to get a shot in FIGHT! I've sat out of two shows now - and I don't like twiddling my thumbs. I'm happier smashing a guys face in, and that's exactly what I'm going to do to Jones. He won't be able to handle my ground and pound.

Thursday 11 June 2009

Demarcus Jones joins the LHW ranks

FIGHT! confirmed the signing of Light Heavyweight Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu specialist, Demarcus Jones earlier today.

Jones boasts a 4-1 record and fights out of Team Unleashed in Florida. As dangerous on his feet as he is on the ground, Jones should prove a match for anyone on the current roster.

Speaking shortly after his signing was announced, Jones had the following to say.
"I'm very happy that I have a chance to showcase my talent in the cage and I'm looking forward to the first fight."
Jones is expected to be thrown into action at the next scheduled FIGHT! event with Scott Jerald or Graziano Sanchez his likely opponent.

Sunday 7 June 2009

FIGHT! announces next lineup

The Save Mart Center at Fresno State will host the next FIGHT! event on Sunday July 5th. After crowning a middleweight champion at 'Goldrush', all eyes are on the Heavyweights in a co-main event of epic proportions.

Former FURYPRO Heavyweight Champion, the imposing striker Ivan Vyacheslav will make his FIGHT! debut alongside Rodrigo Alvarez, the newest FIGHT! coup. Alvarez boasts an impressive 18-5 record and his dirty boxing may be the key which unlocks Vyacheslav.

Stephen Greer, fresh off of his slumbersome victory over Jamtsangiin Daisetin will face a sterner test by way of Japanese judo-wizard Keijiro Maeda. Although no gold is on the line, expect the winners of these two bouts to clash further down the line.

Jake Morgan also announced that he would be bringing FIGHT! fans a glimpse of the growing female MMA scene in partnership with SPIRIT-FC. Myra Benedict will face Christi Wasilewski in what should be a great fight.

Both women were at the announcement and gave their thoughts, as well as a tense staredown.

Benedict said:
"I lost my last two fights by decision. That doesn't sit well with me. ANY loss doesn't sit well with me. I must bounce back, and this is the perfect time to do it."
Wasilewski said:
"I've been given a very tough opponent for my first fight. But the tougher, the better. I have size, strength, and striking advantages over her. But make no mistake about it, I fully expect this fight between us to be nothing short of a war."
The card also features an explosive clash of aggressive kickboxers as Dutchman Aaldert Daaf takes on the unpredictable Ikaika Boswick. Del Canada will look to put his debut behind him as he tackles Aramis Vasquez and much more besides.

The full lineup is as follows:

Heavyweight Bout
Rodrigo Alvarez [BRA] vs Ivan 'The Terrible' Vyacheslav [RUS]

Heavyweight Bout
Stephen Greer [USA] vs Keijiro Maeda [JPN]

SPIRIT FC SHOWCASE MATCHUP
'Poison Bliss' Myra B [USA] vs 'Lights Out' Christi Wasilewski

Light Heavyweight Bout
Aaldert Daaf [HOL] vs Ikaika Boswick [USA/HAWAII]

Welterweight Bout
Kyle McIntosh [USA] vs William 'The Wookie' Wilson [USA]

Middleweight Bout
Jeremy Brown [USA] vs Richie Eamon [USA]

Lightweight Bout
Del Canada [USA] vs Aramis Vasquez [USA]

Thursday 4 June 2009

FIGHT! Goldrush - Fighter Payouts, Salaries, Bonuses and Suspensions

Details of fighters purses and show bonus's were released today. The breakdown is as follows.

Dane Kinsley - Knockout of the Night - $20,000
Kinsley and Kowashi - Fight of the Night - $20,000
Submission of the Night unavailable due to no submission finishes

Dane 'Banger' Kinsley - $72,000 [$16,000 to show, $16,000 to win, $20,000 FotN bonus, $20,000 KOotN bonus]
Chizuko Kowashi - $30,000 [$10,000 to show, $20,000 FotN bonus]
Dane Kinsley defeated Chizuko Kowashi via KO [Headkick]

Stephen Greer - $50,000 [$25,000 to show, $25,000 to win]
Jamtsangiin Daisetin - $9000
Stephen Greer defeated Jamtsanglin Daisetin via Split Decision

Julius Rembrandt - $28,000 [$14,000 to show, $14,000 to win]
Kyle McIntosh - $9000
Julius Rembrandt defeated Kyle McIntosh via KO [Punch]

Jeremy Brown - $16,000 [$8000 to show, $8000 to win]
Damian Cruise - $8000
Jeremy Brown defeated Damian Cruise via Doctor Stoppage

William Wilson - $14,000 [ $7000 to show, $7000 to win]
Jason Mercer - $22,000
William Wilson defeated Jason Mercer via TKO

Rahm Petersen - $8,000 [$4000 to show, $4000 to win]
Del Canada - $11,000
Rahm Patersen defeated Del Canada via Unanimous Decision

The NSAC also issued the following medical suspensions
Damian Cruise until July 8 with no contact until June 23 due to several lacerations.

FIGHT! Goldrush - After Show Press Conference

Following FIGHT! ‘Goldrush’ the winners and losers attended an after event press conference alongside Jake Morgan.

---------------------------------
DANE KINSLEY
---------------------------------

Newly crowned Middleweight Champion Dane Kinsley was the centre of attention as expected. The deadly striker was the firm favorite to leave with the gold ahead of the show, but he spent much of the fight on the defensive and only some lenient refereeing stopped Chizuko Kowashi taking the prize.

Q: “What do you think of your opponent tonight, Chizuko Kowashi?”
"Epic, man. That guy is strong, very strong. I don't know how long I would have lasted against him, but I'm sure it wouldn't have been much longer since I couldn't stop his takedowns."
Q: “How do you feel about picking up the win?”
"I sure don't feel like I won, you know? Kowashi took a nap, my hand was raised, and I got the belt, but Kowashi whooped me for sure. I'm glad that I got that opening when I did though."
Q: “And the knockout?”
"I knew going in that I could knock him out, because that's how I feel every fight. So it was just a matter of staying on my feet and doing what I do."
Q: “And what do you think the future holds for you as the Middleweight champion?”
"Striker, wrestler, boxer, brawler, whatever, man. Bring it on. Just 'cause I'm champ doesn't mean I'm gonna start duckin' anybody."
---------------------------------
STEPHEN GREER
---------------------------------

Heavyweight Stephen Greer had a difficult FIGHT! Debut but managed to sneak out a decision victory over his Mongolian opponent.

Q: "How do you feel you fought tonight?"
"I think I fought well. I felt strong, my striking was tight and he didn't have me in any danger. At one point the ref was telling me he was going to stop the show, but I was fine. I smiled and quickly flipped Daisetin over and gave him a few knocks to think about. Was it a perfect fight? Hell no, I should have KO'd him in the second, no doubt, but there's always next time. I got the win, got over that hump and it's all up from here."
Q: "Speaking of the decision, many would say that although you clearly outscored Daisetin during the second round, the first and third rounds could easily have gone to your opponent. Any thoughts on that?"
"You can SAY whatever you want, the fact is that the judges saw the fight my way. He couldn't control me, I stuffed several of his takedowns and I waged war on his face with the striking. I guess from the uneducated point of view, the big slam in the third looked impressive, but what did he do with it? I've been thrown into bed harder than that and believe me, they didn't just lay there on top of me afterward."
Q: "What's next for you in FIGHT!?"
"I'm heading out to do some celebrating and then back to the gym. I figure Oleg Maksimov and I are on a collision course, whether it's for the belt or not, doesn't matter. We'll see how everything unravels in the next few days and go from there."
---------------------------------
RAHM PETERSEN
---------------------------------

Jiu-Jitsu prodigy Rahm Petersen moved to 2-0 in his career with a second consecutive decision victory over the very experienced Del Canada. Although the fight itself didn’t set many pulses racing, Petersen is already starting to make his mark in the Lightweight division.

Q: “How do you feel your second FIGHT! MMA bout went?”
“Honestly, I’m fine with it. For all the game that I talk, you have to remember that this is still only my second MMA fight. I’m trying my hardest to finish my fights. I don’t know if the two guys who I’ve come up against have just been unfinishable, or if it’s all on my end, but I feel like I should have finished both Vasquez and Canada.”
Q: “Will you change your game plan for your next fight?”
“I don’t think there’s much I could change. Can you deny that it’s an effective style? No one can shake my takedowns, and when I get to the ground I maintain positional dominace. I’ve been working on peppering in some ground and pound, but there’s no doubt that my striking is still subpar. That being said…maybe FIGHT! will find an aggressive striker with good takedown defense to pair me with? Jake Morgan is will have to force my hand if he wants a different performance out of me.”
---------------------------------
WILLIAM WILSON
---------------------------------

‘The Wookie’ took one giant leap up the Welterweight division with a shock victory over highly regarded Jason Mercer.

Q: “How do you feel following your victory?”
“I had a lot of people doubting me. Nobody thought I could beat a guy like Jason. He’s a tough guy, no doubt about it. I had to hit him hard. Real hard but he hung in there for nearly fifteen minutes with my fist breaking his face. I knew I was winning that fight though. I broke him in the first twenty seconds. He wilted under me pressure, it was just a matter of time.”
Q: “What’s your next step?”
“I’m going to make sure that I’m in line for a shot at the Welterweight title. Beating Mercer has put me right up there. I liked watching Rembrandt, but I’ll take anyone.”

Sunday 31 May 2009

FIGHT! Goldrush Results & Recap

A capacity crowd of 10,000 packed the Rabobank Arena in Bakersfield tonight as FIGHT! rolled in to town looking to crown its first ever champion. Knockout artist Dane Kinsley was set to face Japanese wrestler Chizuko Kowashi for the Middleweight gold in a highly anticipated match. The debut of Stephen Greer had also helped the buzz for the show with equal amounts of fans hoping to see him succeed or fail.

Nosebleed tickets were available on the door, but all ringside seats had sold out more than a fortnight ago. Jake Morgan, FIGHT! Chairman was said to be delighted with the turnout and the media coverage leading up to the event.

The first bout of the evening would pit lightweights Rahm Petersen against Del Canada in what should have proved to be a submissions master class. Canada would be making his return to action after nearly a year of inactivity looking to prove that he is still one of the top lightweights in the world. Petersen was coming off of a surprise decision victory over the exciting striker Aramis Vasquez in his debut fight.

---------------------------------
DEL CANADA
---------------------------------
“I haven’t been in circulation in almost a year, and the last time I was in the cage… I got knocked out. But, in my time of solitude- I’ve grown as a man, and also as a fighter.”

“I’ve heard my opponent talking some good jive, apparently to him I’m not “known”. But yet, in 2006 AND 2007 I was considered one of the best Jui Jitsu practitioners in the world. I’ve won an Abu Dhabi, I’ve won submission fighting competitions… they’re nothing compared to MMA. Rahm may think he’s tough s**t because he has been in a few jui jitsu tournaments, but he needs to step into reality.”

“I’m coming for his throat. Plain and simple. You all will see a new Del Canada tonight.”
---------------------------------

---------------------------------
RAHM PETERSEN
---------------------------------
“Is there any doubt what’s about to happen? You have two guys who are into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, one of them comes from the upper echelon of the tournament circuit, and one who’s BJJ hasn’t proved exceptionally effective in MMA. I hope Del Canada took the time to learn a few things about me before this fight, otherwise this will be excessively simple.”

“Maybe I didn’t finish my FIGHT! debut, but today will be a different story. Unless Del Canada is totally uninterested in engaging me in a ground fight, I am taking his arm back to Milwaukee with me.”
---------------------------------

Canada looked the most eager to get the fight started as the bell sounded and launched himself into a nice high kick which could have proved decisive had Petersen not rolled with it. The less experienced Petersen definitely seemed hesitant to engage but the fight exploded into life after Del Canada mistimed a hook and found himself scooped up and then driven down to the mat. This is where the game of cat and mouse began with Rahm Petersen proving to be the more effective grappler. Petersen played it safe and found himself neutralised in the guard of Canada and that is how things remained until Canada found his way up to his feet with barely twenty seconds remaining. Despite stuffing a further takedown attempt, Canada soon found himself spiked back to the mat to bring the round to a close.

Not the most exciting fight so far, even for BJJ fans. Canada looked to get the second round off with more of a bang but his attempts to clinch only found himself dumped down onto his back and straight into full mount. Despite an armbar attempt, Canada remained calm and worked his way back to guard. Petersen worked gamely for position without inflicting damage for much of the round as the crowd grew restless. It took an enforced standup to get things flowing again as Canada swung out a high kick but ‘Hustle’ was ghost-like. In the same pattern as round one, Petersen finished on top after closing the distance and bringing Canada down with an impressive suplex.

Round 3 began with an exchange of strikes but soon fell into the familiar pattern as Petersen landed a trip and fell down into half guard. The story of the fight was Canada being unable to prevent the takedown and Petersen’s reluctance to exploit his advantage. A minute passed before Canada landed a hard blow to the body from his back which opened things up for a triangle. Just as it seemed that Petersen was perilously close to tapping, he managed to hoist Canada up and slam him back down to break the grip. The final minutes passed, slowly, with Canada on his back switching between full and rubber guard as Petersen seemed content to control the action. Suffice to say, as the final bell sounded neither fighter had endeared themselves to the crowd.

The judges have it:

30-27 Petersen
29-28 Petersen

And...


29-28 Petersen!

Rahm Petersen wins by unanimous decision after a relatively comfortable fifteen minutes of action. Canada, although he proved that his Jiu-Jitsu was up to standard, found he had no answer for the takedowns of Petersen in a fight that was fought 80% of the time on the mat.

Hopefully, the second fight of the evening would prove to be more entertaining as highly regarded middleweight Jason Mercer took on the erratic wrestler, William ‘The Wookie’ Wilson.

Mercer was the strong favourite heading into the fight, but the caveman-esque Wilson, with his long, frizzy black hair and bushy eyebrows was looking super-hyped as the pair eyed eachother from opposite sides of the Octagon. This would be the biggest fight of Wilson’s career, and a chance for Mercer to bounce back from a disappointing decision loss to Jeremy Brown last time around. Wilson would be sure to keep a frenetic pace, as long as his conditioning would allow for it.

True to form, Wilson started the first round explosively by hoisting Mercer off of his feet and landing in full mount. Swinging wildly, Wilson began to land some hard punches which had the fans up off of their feet with barely a minute gone. Somehow ‘No Mercy’ survived and worked his way back to open guard. Wilson got over-eager in sensing the biggest ‘W’ of his career and soon found himself on his back after a sharp sweep from Mercer who began to target the midsection of his ‘soft’ looking opponent. Halfway through the round, the fighters were stood up but it didn’t take long for Wilson to drag Mercer to the ground again with a brutal slam, but the momentum saw Mercer flow through and end up on top where he continued to target the body. ‘The Wookie’ defended gamely before taking some stiff hammer blows to the face as the round came to a close. A tough one to call, perhaps the control Mercer exerted for the second half of the round might swing it his way, but the real damage was done very early on.

Round two began with a couple of stuffed Mercer takedowns before a flamboyant ‘Wookie’ Judo Toss fails to connect and Mercer takes things downwards from the resulting clinch. Mercer couldn’t deliver any telling blows though as ‘The Wookie’ covered up effectively, even landing some hard looking shots off of his back. Again the pair were stood up, but again things hit the ground quickly as William Wilson took control and quickly passed to side control. A big leaping right hand from Wilson rocked Mercer, causing his eye to swell instantly. Wilson found his second wind and began to flail with big lefts and rights which leave him open to a Triangle attempt from Mercer, but it didn’t stick and Wilson served out the final minute of the round in control.

Coming in to the third, you could argue that it’s one round a piece with both fighters needing to close things out positively. Wilson’s wild style had earned him the support of the crowd but he was breathing heavily. He sucks it up though and starts the round as he has the previous two, on the offensive. Mercer is bullied from one side of the Octagon to the other with a relentless series of punches which cause a cut underneath his left eye. Mercer instinctively looks for a double leg, but Wilson stuffs it and sends Mercer for a ride. Mercer is on dream street and ‘The Wookie’ passes into full mount with ease before delivering a flurry of punches. Mercer covers up, but Wilson switches levels and lands a hard body shot. Mercer was hanging on but it was looking increasingly likely that he was going to slip to 0-2 as Wilson landed a hard shot to the head. By now, Wilson had the fans chanting his name.

Wilson nearly had the fight finished with a barrage of punches, by now, Mercer had taken more strikes than a bowling alley. Hard elbows began to rain down before another hard body shot rattled Mercer. By the third minute of the round, Mercer had nothing left. The cumulative damage had been too much and as ‘The Wookie’ continued his assault the referee had no choice but to stop the fight.

- William Wilson wins by TKO! [3:56 RD 3]

A dejected Mercer quickly left the Octagon as ‘The Wookie’ played to the crowd before our first Middleweight bout of the evening got underway. Jeremy ‘The Sensation’ Brown was looking to bounce back from his defeat to Dane Kinsley and put on a Muay Thai clinic against Canadian grappler Damian Cruise who seems determined to fight at 185lbs, despite coming to the Octagon at closer to 170lbs.

---------------------------------
JEREMY BROWN
---------------------------------
"So my first fight here didn't go so hot. This is a much better match-up, if you ask me. Sure, Damian's tough, good on the ground, whatever. I personally don't think he's any match for my standup.

"On the ground, I'll just do whatever I can to get out, get up, and pound him some more!"
---------------------------------

The prospect of falling to 0-2 would have been driving both men as the bell sounded to start the fight. Despite losing his FIGHT! debut, Jeremy Brown was the fan favourite here. His devastating Muay Thai makes for exciting fights and he immediately worked the clinch landing three telling knees to the body. Cruise looked to take down his opponent, but Brown showed good balance in remaining standing and followed up by blocking a Judo throw. If Cruise can’t take Brown down, this fight may be over very quickly. At the two minute mark, Cruise gets his reward for persistence with a beautiful Uchi-mata throw. Cruise looked to take advantage with a loose armbar attempt but only served in getting his face pelted. After a couple of hammer blows, ‘The Sensation’ is able to push Cruise away and get back to his feet. Cruise came in for another takedown, buoyed by his earlier success but Brown delivered some BRUTAL knees to the head. Noone can quite believe that Cruise is still awake after those, a further punishing knee to the body had Cruise in trouble but time was against Brown who couldn’t finish things quickly enough.

Brown looked confident as he came out for the second round. He had been making Cruise pay for every takedown attempt and more of the same was due to follow as he caught Cruise with a knee to the head early on. Cruise was struggling to impose his will and couldn’t find the takedown. Brown caught him in a clinch and began to unload frightening uppercuts leaving Cruise’s nose bleeding. Cruise needed to change his gameplan, but he continued to come forward looking for the takedown absorbing huge knees to the head and body. An absolute Muay Thai clinic from Brown.

Cruise went down just after three minutes of punishment from a knee to the head. Brown stayed on his feet and landed a vicious soccer kick to the head. Cruise’s eye was looking in a bad way by now. Brown stayed on his feet and peppered the legs of Cruise, further disabling his ability to score a takedown before scoring with another soccer kick. Cruise looked deflated and a hard stomp won’t help. By now, both eyes of Cruise had been messed up and he struggled to defend himself as Brown began to stomp at the body. The referee allowed Cruise back to his feet, but in truth that was probably the last place he’d want to be as Brown worked the clinch and delivered yet more knees to the head and body. As they broke, a swatting liver kick echoed around the arena. Somehow, Cruise had made it to the third round, but that had to be close to a 10-8 round such was the domination and punishment shown by Jeremy Brown.

Cruise came out gamely for the third and was met by a high kick from brown. Clearly Jeremy Brown is out to make a point, he wants this fight and he wants to send a message to Dane Kinsley. For the first time in MMA history, someone was bleeding from the chin, and it wasn’t Jeremy Brown as he landed a devastating knee to Damian Cruise. Somehow, Cruise remained on his feet and looked for a desperate Judo toss but once again, Brown stays on his feet and makes his battered opponent pay with knees from the clinch. That sequence opened a nasty cut across the left eye of Cruise and blood began pouring down his face and chest. Brown tagged him with a kick to the ribs before sucking him in and landing another knee to the chin. Cruise staggered back, his face a bloodied mask of red. Before any further damage can be inflicted, the referee calls an end to the match citing the gaping wound as the reason. Damian Cruise simply couldn’t see anything out of his swollen, bloodied left eye

- Jeremy Brown wins due to injury!

The pair exchanged a handshake and raised one another’s arms in recognition of their efforts. The fight was won in the clinch where Brown landed 62% of his strikes. Cruise was made to regret every takedown attempt he mustered and, in the end, the stoppage through injury may have been a blessing in disguise for the Canadian.

Next up was a much anticipated Welterweight bout between newcomer Julius Rembrandt and Kyle McIntosh. These two had done a good job hyping the fight, Rembrandt in particular is no stranger to getting under the skin of his opponents. McIntosh is coming off of a strong decision victory over Jason Mercer but was looking to finish this match in a more decisive manner. Both fighters like to stand and trade, so this fight promised much in the way of excitement.

---------------------------------
KYLE McINTOSH
---------------------------------
“Once again, Jake Morgan and the boys at FIGHT! are feeding me to the wolves. Last month I had to go a whole three rounds with a rigged and ready Jason Mercer, and I lived to tell the story. Without even a week to bask in the splendor of the win, I’m informed of my next big match. They tell me I’m fighting a "notorious" welterweight from Chicago named Julius Rembrandt. The first thing I did was laugh and ask if that is his real name?”

“No, in all seriousness… I actually heard of the guy, and knew a fight with him was serious shit. I immediately went straight back to Milwaukee to prepare for the match. Luckily, I wasn’t really that hurt from the Mercer match. I feel great now and I’m excited to fight. I really want to finish somebody this time, but Julius Rembrandt takes pride in never being finished or submitted, and is quite adept at making excuses for his previous losses. I aim to change this immediately. Julius Rembrandt will be screaming like a little girl by the time I am finished with him that‘s for sure. What excuse he makes for it.. I am not so sure.”
---------------------------------

The first round began with a touch of the gloves, but it wasn’t long before Rembrandt was swinging his in anger. McIntosh landed some nice counter punches before Rembrandt started to keep him at bay with a solid jab. Rembrandt has deadly power in his hands, and he likes nothing more than to put it to use. The first couple of minutes passed quickly with neither fighter connecting. They continued to feel one another out before Rembrandt connected with a hook. McIntosh was looking to initiate a clinch and connected with some knees to the body. The fight came alive three minutes in as Rembrandt came forward with a middle kick which caused McIntosh to put his arm in the way. An unorthodox punch to the body from Rembrandt set up a huge right hand which sent McIntosh down to the ground. After a few kicks, Rembrandt went to the ground to try and finish the fight and with a minute remaining he began to unload with strikes. McIntosh tried to cover up but he couldn’t stop the barrage. Punches, elbows and more bloodied up the face of McIntosh who just about made it to the end of the round.

With a minutes rest, McIntosh looked fresher, but his striking simply wasn’t matching up to that of Julius Rembrandt who was working the jab effectively. McIntosh managed to land a few knees to the thighs from the clinch but soon found himself hitting the mat for a second time as Rembrandt connected with a solid combination. McIntosh recovered quickly, and surprisingly Rembrandt wasn’t able to finish the fight as he dropped into the guard and the pair were soon stood up with half the round remaining. McIntosh needs to find a way to work his BJJ as Rembrandt looked a cut above on the feet.

Rembrandt landed a huge straight right at the three minute mark opening up McIntosh for a hard body kick which hurt him. Rembrandt connects with a kick to the thigh and McIntosh goes down for a third time – it was the body shot which did the damage though – Rembrandt looked to finish with a hard body stomp and some kicks to the leg but he couldn’t find an opening to land the killer blow and McIntosh was quickly back to his feet. McIntosh was looking to just see out the round when Rembrandt connected with a big right hand. ‘Stretch’ hit the ground hard, his arms were stiff by his side. He was out, fight over!

- Julius Rembrandt wins by KO! [4:43 RD2]

Rembrandt lived up to his billing as a dangerous striker, landing 80% of his punches. Kyle McIntosh, despite showing tremendous heart simply couldn’t cope with the explosive, unorthodox strikes of his opponent in what he will see as a disappointing setback after an impressive first outing in FIGHT!

A highly anticipated Heavyweight bout was up next as USA met Mongolia. Stephen Greer, who is familiar to a huge audience through his exposure in professional wrestling would make his FIGHT! debut against Jamtsanglin Daisetin, a powerful wrestler from Mongolia. Greer went 3-2 in FURYPRO several years ago so shouldn’t be overlooked.

---------------------------------
STEPHEN GREER
---------------------------------
"I can't wait to get in there and send this guy home in a bodybag. It's been a long time since I stepped into that cage and believe me, I'm here to prove a point. This is the first step toward claiming my spot at the top of the Heavyweight heap and the eventual rematch with Vyacheslav. If Daisetin thinks he's going to come in and gorilla f[expletive]k me into the ground with boring bearhug bulls[expletive]t, he's got a long night ahead of him."

"It's going to end quick and it's going to end viciously. I'm going to take his head off and toss it into the crowd. Prepare to get knocked out!"
---------------------------------

---------------------------------
JAMTSANGIIN DAISETIN
---------------------------------
[Jamtsangiin Daisetin appears before a fight logo wearing traditional Mongolian garb. As he speaks, a translator voices over what he has to say.]

“I am very pleased to be here competing in FIGHT! It is the culmination of a lifetime of sporting competition. I have spent my life mastering the three manly skills of Mongolian culture.. archery, horsemanship, and most of all wrestling. In Mongolian wrestling, I have already won eight championships and in time the competition had grown stale. I desired a more aggressive form of combat.”

“Mixed Martial Arts was my destiny, and my path led me here to FIGHT! My first rival is Stephen Greer, a showman who decides to compete with real fighters. I myself intend to put on a show for the fans, but there will be no scripts here. All violence will be at it’s most malicious, and suffering will be met with indifference. I am coming to FIGHT! with the objective of being a pioneer in crossing over traditional Mongolian wrestling to Mixed Martial Arts. Like the man the western world referred to as Genghis Kahn, I strive to conquer. It starts with Stephen Greer.”
---------------------------------

Greer was calm and ready to go while Daisetin appeared to be a bit nervous. They circled each other feeling one another out until Daisetin shoots in, but Greer stuffs it. Daisetin comes up swinging, backing Greer off but continues to stalk and gets Greer in a clinch where he does get him down to the ground. Daisetin quickly worked with blows to the body while he transitioned around Greer's defenses to side control and then to full mount. Greer however quickly adapted and got Daisetin into full guard, the lack of action not endearing either to the fans. Greer continued to work as he looked for holes in Daisetin's defense to latch on for a submission. Daisetin kept working until he got back into full mount again, but Greer's defense didn't allow him to get much out of it as he eventually ended up back in Greer's guard. Greer finally found an opening for an armbar that Daisetin shook off, but Greer managed to reverse his way into Daisetin's open guard. Daisetin was quick with a Triangle attempt, which Greer escaped. Eventually the ref just stood them up. Daisetin exploded with a good combo, but Greer smiled showing that those didn't phase him as he landed some crisp counter shots as Greer backed Daisetin into the cage. Daisetin tried to toss Greer, but couldn't get him over as time expired in the round.

Round two started much faster with Greer coming out with jabs as Daisetin tried to get it back to the ground with from the clinch again, but Greer's balance wins out. Daisetin responds with a hook that Greer responds to with a big time flurry of lefts and rights, ROCKING Daisetin! Greer presses on with a relentless series of blows, amazingly Daisetin keeps his cool and surges back into the fight as the two begin trading wild shots! Greer however wins the exchange, landing a big bomb that lead to another flurry of punches from both with Greer getting the best of it. Daisetin closed the distance and looked to get the fight back to the ground, but Greer just wouldn't budge with several beautiful stuff jobs until the round was over.

Third round starts with a touch of the gloves and Daisetin again tries to take it to the ground and again Greer continues to stuff every shot and judo throw. Greer pawed at Daisetin until clinching and throwing some hard elbows. Daisetin tried again for a judo toss and Greer tagged him with a hard shot that staggered him and followed up with a huge left hand. Daisetin finally gets the takedown with a big lift and slam, but Greer quickly works Daisetin from mount into half guard. Daisetin works for position, but Greer's defenses won't let him get far and Daisetin starts to land several incredible shots! Greer managed to weather the storm with the ref threatening to call the fight. Daisetin moved into full mount, but didn't get much through Greer's defenses and eventually Greer reversed position and started raining down punches from Daisetin's open guard with a minute left in the fight. Daisetin continued to work until he reversed back to top position where he opened up with some aggressive ground and pound, but Greer defended well until the fight was over.

The judges have it:

29-28 Daisetin
29-28 Greer

And...

Winner by split decision...

29-28 Greer!

- Stephen Greer wins via split decision

Stephen Greer wins his FIGHT! debut in a controversial decision. Greer clearly took round two, but his powerful Mongolian opponent will feel that he may well have taken rounds one and three on another night.

The main event of the evening was what the fans had come to see as Dane Kinsley and Chizuko Kowashi collided for the vacant Middleweight Title. After a striking clinic against Jeremy Brown, Kinsley was the firm favourite – but Kowashi possesses the exact skillset which could cause problems. The compact wrestler could take the fight to the ground and keep it there.

---------------------------------
DANE KINSLEY
---------------------------------
"This fight is huge for me. The fact that I've gotten to this point is amazing considering where I was just a few years ago. I'm not just some club fighter anymore, I'm a legitimate and respected fighter now and that means a whole lot more to me than anything else. I'm going to go in there do whatever I have to to cash this lucky lotto ticket in. It's the light at the end of a three year tunnel and I'll be damned if I'm gonna get stopped now."

"Kowashi's got a good ground game, big time ground and pound, but can he put me to the mat to do it? Can he even get in close enough to try? I don't think so. Not without eating a few shots first, and when that happens he runs the risk of taking a nap real quick. He has to shoot in to get me to the ground and when he does I'm either going to block it or dent in his face with a knee."

"So the question is... can he stand and bang? Is he even willing to do that? I know he can drag a man down and pummel him into submission, but what is he capable of when that fails? And that right there is what gets me excited for this fight, it's the unknown. It's why I'm here today, to fight the best and more diverse talent from around the world. If I wanted to keep on rackin' up easy wins I wouldn't be here, I'd still be on those scrub shows fightin' for free."

"As for a prediction... I'll still be standing after punching Kowashi's snooze button."
---------------------------------

---------------------------------
CHIZUKO KOWASHI
---------------------------------
" I''ve proven my worth, and now it’s my time to "cash in". Last time I stepped into the cage, I had people asking “whose that guy?”… and after I beat Dane for the championship, everyone will know exactly who I am.”

"Like I said before, I will never discredit my opponent. But, I will tell you this… Dane is a striker. I’m a wrestler, a boxer, and a muay thai guy. I’m the hybrid and Dane is the one-dimensional fighter. Not taking anything away from Kinsley, but I fell that I have the upper hand.”

"Dane sprawl is diffidently a suspect. We have yet to see how he reacts once being taken down by a wrestler of my caliber… So, I guess we’ll see how well he does once we meet in the cage."
---------------------------------

A tense staredown set the tone for the matchup. With the title on the line, would Kinsley change to a more cautious approach? Jeremy Brown had shown that Kinsley could be hurt, but had paid the price three times before finally being sent to sleep. One thing was certain, this fight would be one for the ages. Hopefully.

Almost immediately, one question was answered as Chizuko Kowashi dumped Kinsley on his back from the clinch. Kowashi twisted the arm of Kinsley like a pretzel using it to move into side control where he began unloading a barrage of punches. ‘Cutthroat’ Kowashi came within seconds of winning the title as he pounded Kinsley’s head like he was a training dummy. Somehow, Kinsley found a way back to guard working purely on instinct but Kowashi was still peppering him with relentless strikes. In one fluid move, Kowashi passed through the loose guard of his opponent and into full mount where he delivered several unanswered and brutal elbows. This wasn’t how anyone had expected things to go down. Barely a minute into the fight and Kinsley looks like he has been in a car wreck. The referee was ready to stop it as more unanswered blows rained down but Kowashi couldn’t find the killer blow. Perhaps he had punched himself out, but Kinsley fought back into guard and slowly looked to regain his composure. There’s no doubt that some referee’s would have called an end to the action, Kinsley can consider himself lucky to get a second chance.

Kowashi seemed content to cement his position of control for the next couple of minutes as he sucked the air back into his lungs but at the 2:30 mark the fighters were ordered back to their feet. Expecting Kinsley to deliver a pinpoint KO blow, the fans were vocally electric, but instead Kowashi dove in for another successful takedown. Already busted open across the eyebrow, Kinsley again felt the full force of his opponents elbows, opening up a laceration on his cheek. Kowashi was totally dominant and again had Kinsley moments away from defeat. Another stiff elbow caused a cut across the bridge of Kinsley’s nose.

With a minute of the round remaining the pair were stood back to their feet. Kowashi took a deep breath as Kinsley wiped the blood from his eyes. The pair came together again, but this time Kinsley landed his only telling strike of the match so far with a wincing low kick to the knee. As ‘Cutthroat’ dropped his guard he was tagged with a vicious combination. The crowd erupted as Kinsley seized the opportunity with a second low kick and then a blistering high kick which rocked Kowashi. With glazed eyes, Kowashi was there for the taking. Like a shark smelling blood, Kinsley came forward with another headkick which sent Kowashi down, unconscious.

- Incredibly, Dane Kinsley wins by KO [4:55 RD 1]

An incredible end to a fight which seemed destined for an upset. Kowashi dominated on the ground leaving Kinsley a bloody, bloody mess, but when you command as much power and precision as Kinsley, things can be turned on their head in a split second.

The referee rendered the decision, holding aloft the arm of Kinsley as Jake Morgan strapped the gleaming Middleweight Title around his waist. Truly, one of the greatest rounds of action ever witnessed. Dane Kinsley is the new FIGHT! Middleweight Champion.

Despite starting off slowly, there is no doubt that the fans in attendance left happy and Jake Morgan and the FIGHT! crew can expect a wealth of glowing reports from an excellent show.

Saturday 30 May 2009

FIGHT! 'Goldrush' weigh-in news and notes

FIGHT! held testosterone fuelled weigh-ins earlier today in front of some 1400 fans. The big story was the soon to be decided destination of the Middleweight Title - KO artist Dane Kinsley is the firm favourite to bring home the gold and glory.

Dane Kinsley [185lbs] vs Chizuko Kowashi [180lbs]

Stephen Greer [266lbs] vs Jamtsangiin Daisetin [265lbs]

Julius Rembrandt [170lbs] vs Kyle McIntosh [170lbs]

Jeremy Brown [183lbs] vs Damian Cruise [175lbs]

Jason Mercer [170lbs] vs William 'The Wookie' Wilson [171lbs]

Rahm Petersen [156lbs] vs Del Canada [155lbs]

- Stephen Greer got the biggest reaction of the night. His pro-wrestling experience garnering him immediate superstar reaction, though not all of it positive. Greer ignored the offered handshake during his staredown and didn't stop 'chatting'.

- Dane Kinsley looked in great shape. His opponent, Kowashi was much larger than we last saw. The two seemed ready to go, Kowashi was particularly eager. Kinsley looked confident.

- Damian Cruise should really look to stay off the pasta and cut down to 170lbs which looks a much more suitable weight. Jeremy Brown looked in good shape and incredibly focussed during the staredown.

- 'The Wookie' looked a little bloated around the edges.

- Rahm Petersen looked a solid 156lbs and looked to get under his opponents skin. Del Canada wasn't taking the bait and shrugged it off.



Some choice bets for you:

At +225 Chizuko Kowashi might be a good bet, his wrestling could be enough to neutralise Kinsley's emphatic striking.

Jason Mercer is well worth his -280 favourite status after seeing 'The Wookie'.

Steer clear of betting anything on Stephen Greer. 'The King Of Pain' has seen his odds swing after a surge in [probably uneducated] bets to a ridiculous -300.

Monday 4 May 2009

FIGHT! announces May 23rd event

FIGHT! today announced it's second show will be held on 23rd May 2009 at an as yet undecided location. The big story coming out of the press conference is the crowning of the first FIGHT! champion of the Middleweight division with striker Dane Kinsley taking on Japanese wrestler Chizuko Kowashi in what should be an exciting main event.

Other matches announced include the return to MMA of Stephen Greer who will take on FIGHT! debutante, the Mongolian wrestler Jamtsangiin Daiseten.

Welterweight Julius Rembrandt is also thrust nto action having recently been confirmed as a signing. Rembraandt [13-3-0], from Illinois, is more than capable on his feet or the ground but he steps into the Octagon with Kyle McIntosh who shares the very same traits.

Del Canada [USA] makes his debut in the Lightweight division and will be looking to test his impressive ground skills against Rahm Petersen, who outpointed Aramis Vasquez at the debut FIGHT! event.

The full lineup is as follows:


Middleweight Title Bout
Dane Kinsley [USA] vs Chizuko Kowashi

Heavyweight Bout
Stephen Greer [USA] vs Jamtsangiin Daisetin [MON]

Welterweight Bout
Julius Rembrandt [USA] vs Kyle McIntosh [USA]

Middleweight Bout
Jeremy Brown [USA] vs Damian Cruise [CAN]

Welterweight Bout
Jason Mercer [USA] vs William 'The Wookie' Wilson [USA]

Lightweight Bout
Rahm Petersen [USA] vs Del Canada [USA]

FIGHT! adds a notorious Welterweight

News coming out of the FIGHT! Headquarters today confirmed that Julius Rembrandt [13-3-0] has officially been tied down to a 4 fight deal.

MMA fans in the Chicagoland area know Julius Rembrandt very well. In an interview with local sports talk radio station 670 The Score, "The Doctor" talked about his 13-3 record in the regional Midwest MMA scene.
"Two of those three losses were controversial split decisions. The third was due to a small cut that bled into my eye. That sh[CENSORED] ain't a win. Nobody's found a way to knock me out or make me tap, and nobody's goin' to neither." Julius' cocky attitude is sure to draw the ire of many fans on the national stage; but it is sure to endear him to many others at the same time. Plus, you cannot question his fighting abilities. "I'm an enigma. You can either love me, or you can hate me; it really don't matter. I'll just keep knockin' f[CENSORED]rs out."
Rembrandt currently holds Welterweight Championships in two Midwest-based promotions, and talked about his plans for FIGHT!.
"Anybody who tells you they ain't after the belt and big paychecks is lyin', plain and simple. We wouldn't be here if each and every one of us didn't strive to be the best fighter in the world. Me? I know comin' in here that the competition will be tougher than what I'm used to. 'Cause when the fight's over and the ref brings out the smellin' salts, everyone will know that I'm the real f[CENSORED]ng deal And before you know it, that Welterweight belt will be around my waist."
He's vulgar, he's cocky, but whether or not "The Doctor" Julius Rembrandt will be a winner in FIGHT! MMA remains to be seen.

Wednesday 29 April 2009

FIGHT! For Their Lives I - Fighter Payouts, Salaries and Bonuses

Details of fighters purses and show bonus's were released today. The breakdown is as follows.

Aaldert Daaf - Knockout of the Night - $20,000
Kinsley and Brown - Fight of the Night - $20,000
Submission of the Night unavailable due to no submission finishes

Oleg Maksimov - $26000 [$13,000 to show, $13,000 to win]
Michael Cross - $20,000
Oleg Maksimov defeated Michael Cross via TKO [strikes]

Kyle McIntosh - $18,000 [$9000 to show, $9000 to win]
Jason Mercer - $22,000
Kyle McIntosh defeated Jason Mercer via unanimous decision

Aaldert Daaf - $44,000 [$12,000 to show, $12,000 to win, $20,000 KOotN bonus]
Grant Prosser - $10,000
Aaldert Daaf defeated Grant Prosser via KO [headkick]

Dane 'Banger' Kinsley - $52,000 [$16,000 to show, $16,000 to win, $20,000 FotN bonus]
Jeremy Brown - $28000 [$8000 to show, $20,000 FotN bonus]
Dane Kinsley defeated Jeremy Brown via KO [punch]

Chizuko Kowashi - $20,000 [$10,000 to show, $10,000 to win]
Damian Cruise - $8000
Chizuko Kowashi defeated Damian Cruise via TKO [strikes]

Rahm Petersen - $8,000 [$4000 to show, $4000 to win]
Aramis Vasquez - $5,000
Rahm Patersen defeated Aramis Vasquez via split decision

FIGHT! For Their Lives I - After Show Press Conference

Following the events at FIGHT! For Their Lives I, several of the competitors attended a press conference alongside Jake Morgan.

---------------------------------
DANE KINSLEY
---------------------------------

Middleweight striker Dane 'Banger' Kinsley [USA] came out of FIGHT! For Their Lives I perhaps better than anyone. His clinical display of impressive striking saw him dominate Jeremy Brown. His performance certainly caught the eye, and if he continues, must put him at the very top of the Middleweight pile.

Q: "How did you think your fight went?"
"Terrible." (laughs)

"Nah, seriously though."

"I knew what I wanted to do and went out there and did it and Brown didn't really give me anything to worry about. I think he did more damage to my hands with his head than anything else he threw at me."
Q: "Are you happy with the result?"
"Clearly."

"Always got to dig puttin' a dude to sleep. Especially tonight."

"You want to give people a reason to watch you and book you. I felt I basically needed to prove myself. Show off my accuracy and power."

"I think I definitely did that."
Q: "Where does this place you in relation to the division?"
"No clue."

"I mean all of that will be decided by the brains of the operation. I'm just here to fight whoever, whenever, wherever. But I think I definitely put myself in any discussion in the 185 division that comes up after tonight for sure."

---------------------------------
RAHM PETERSEN
---------------------------------

Making your debut is always a tricky experience but Rahm Petersen [USA] managed to sidestep the elusive strikes of Aramis Vasquez to grind out a split decision victory.

Q: Now with your debut out of the way, can we expect you to finish a fight in the future?
“I am unapologetic for the way the fight unfolded. Controlling Vasquez was even easier than I imagined it would be. I smothered him just like I said I would, and there was nothing he could do to stop me, nothing. Of course I wanted to finish with the armbar in the first round, but even when that didn’t pan out, I threw everything I had out there. Sometimes you can finish, and sometimes you can’t. I will be even more aggressive next time out. I really want an appendage trophy.”
Q: How did the right hand during the second round affect you? Did you decide on closing the distance after that, and grinding out a decision?
“I’m not going to lie: The right dazed me. But like I said before the fight, and which I will repeat now, pure jiu-jitsu guys are not the cowards people might say they are. I believe that we’re tougher than any other discipline out there, and I think my chin proved that. As an added bonus, Vasquez just jumps into my world with me? Did he really think it would be over that easily? Ridiculous.”
Q: Who would you like next?
“It doesn’t matter. I’m sure Vasquez will want a rematch, since a split decision loss can’t be very satisfying. But, sorry, my friend, maybe some other time. I’m focused on moving up the ladder, not stalling on it. I’m focused on making Milwaukee Top Team synonymous with champions. Kyle McIntosh and I haven’t shown our true potential yet. When we do, no one in FIGHT! MMA will be able to stop us.”

---------------------------------
KYLE McINTOSH
---------------------------------

Welterweight Kyle McIntosh took a step up in competition by tackling Jason Mercer in the co-main event, and proved his credentials with a relatively comfortable decision victory. Despite fading slightly in the third round, McIntosh did enough to convince the judges.

Q: Well you went in there wanting to put your name on the map with a big win, and you got just that with the unanimous decision win over Jason Mercer. You must be satisfied with the way things went.
“It was a good fight. Mercer didn’t take it easy on me for a second, but I made sure to make things difficult for him too. The win’s certainly going to put my name out there. It definitely should give me a boost in the Welterweight rankings. At the moment though, I think I still got more to prove.”
Q: It looks like you made a distinct effort to keep the fight standing up. Was this part of your strategy?
“I knew he liked the ground game, and I anticipated that he’d want to take it there. He never seems to get tested on two feet, so I wanted to be the guy to give him that test. In the end, it was never so much that I wanted to keep it up as my takedown counters being on point all night.”
Q: What’s next for you, Kyle?
“Well, if Garret Bishop changes his mind about why he came here, send him my way. Haha. Honestly, I do not care. I’ll take whomever Jake Morgan and the bookers in the back want to throw at me next.”

---------------------------------
Aaldert Daaf
---------------------------------

Dutchman Aaldert Daaf scored the KO of the night with a spectacular headkick to dispatch hard hitting Grant Prosser in what turned out to be a mismatch of skill and ability. Daaf used his kickboxing so effectively he will have alerted the whole MMA world to his presence.

Q: For all of the amicable talk before the fight, you certainly didn’t take it easy on Prosser…
“Ah…no. [chuckle] I suppose I didn’t. He is a great fighter, and he showed willingness to trade, he showed a real…uh…fighting spirit. As I said before the show, I am extending an invitation to Grant Prosser to come to Rotterdam, and train with Team Handhaven. And sorry for the soccer kick, but…ay…a fight will be a fight, right?”
Q: Can you explain the ending of the fight?
“Yes… I think Prosser felt that his punch did more damage than it did. I am used to be hit in the face…uh…very frequently. You could say my face is strong. [chuckle] Even though it made no sense, I just…um...felt like he would shoot, so instinctively I threw the knee…and that was that.”
Q: Who would you like to fight next?
“Anyone. Since I fought first, that puts me in the lead, doesn’t it? Uh, no other 205 pound fighters competed on Saturday. Now they know where I’m at, and how I go about things. I…uh…I will fight anyone. Honestly.”

---------------------------------
OLEG ANATOLIY MAKSIMOV
---------------------------------

Russian Heavyweight Oleg Maksimov gave a lesson in ground n’ pound to his American opponent Michael Cross, displaying surprising agility for a 240lb + man. In truth, Cross never troubled Maksimov who can expect tougher opposition in future fights. He spoke in English, through a heavy Russian accent.

Q: First of all, Oleg, how do you feel following your fight with Michael Cross?
“I feel good. I feel very good. One hundred percent, you could say. I could fight again tomorrow if I had to.”
Q: Few people outside your home country of Russia and Team Taipan in Japan know your name. Tonight, many of them got that all important first glimpse right here in FIGHT! MMA. What is your impression of Michael Cross now that the fight is over?
“Never underestimate him. He is still a world-class fighter. Yes I won that fight, but it wasn't easy. Cross will bounce back, and be better than ever. I'm sure of it. Who knows... maybe we'll see a rematch someday. But for now, my focus must be on the next fight, whenever that may be.”
Q: Do you have any preferences on your next opponent?
“It doesn't matter who. I will train equally hard for all of them.”
Q: Thank you for your time.
“No, thank _you_.”

---------------------------------
CHIZUKO KOWASHI
---------------------------------

Japanese Middleweight Chizuko Kowashi made light of impressive grappler Damian Cruise. He answered questions through an interpreter.

Q: Impressive victory tonight Kowashi, to say the least. Do you think you’ve proven anything to the rest of the roster?
“All I did was go out there and prove that I am for real… ya’ know? I believe that everyone was thinking that I was doing nothing but blowing smoke up their a** when I was saying that I one of the best, if not THE best, fighter on the roster. I contain all the tools necessary to reign supreme, and I plan on putting them to work. And, if they don’t want to believe me, then let them find out first hand.”
Q: Well, it’s obvious as to where you believe you stand in your division… but, let’s bring your size into play. It is possible to say that you are one of the smallest middleweights on the roster… is there a possibility that we will see you move down to welterweight in the future?
“Actually, I was wanting to move up to light heavyweight. I mean, my natural weight is about 188lbs to 190lbs, so it‘ll be a lot easier keeping weight. It was actually my original class as an amateur mixed martial artist and early in my professional career. Once I work my way up to the top in the middleweight division, it is a diffident possibly you will see me move up a weight class.”
Q: Alright, alright.. Now are there any big threats among the middleweights that you may be aware of?- any guys that really stand out to you?
“There are a few, but their irrelevant. I see flaws in their game that I will expose once I see them in the cage. “
Q: Okay.. Well, it’s been nice talking to you Kowashi- I appreciate you comments.
“Thank you, anytime.”

Sunday 26 April 2009

FIGHT! For Their Lives I - Results & Recap

FIGHT! Held its first show at the HP Pavilion at San Jose tonight. The show was preceded by a meet and greet with fans featuring Jason Mercer, Dane Kinsley and Lightweight Dez Canada who wouldn’t be in action tonight.

Attendance was estimated at 11,000 with most tickets being sold in the days leading up to the event itself. The top layer of seats were blacked out.

The first match of the evening was an exciting back and forth encounter that pitted striker against grappler as Aramis Vasquez took on Rahm Petersen who was also making his competitive debut. Petersen would no doubt be looking to get the fight to the ground where he could work his incredible Jiu Jitsu.

---------------------------------
RAHM PETERSEN
---------------------------------
“There’s no doubt that this fight favors me. Even though this is my MMA debut, we’re basically equal in the experience factor. I’ve been in countless Jiu-jitsu tournaments, and he’s only been in three fights. With that comes the fact that he hasn’t seen me fight, he doesn’t really know how I will translate to MMA. The only people who know what my game is like are the guys that I train with at Milwaukee Top Team.”

“I’m ready. I have something to prove. It’s going to be hard for Vasquez to be elusive when I’m smothering him, and looking for limbs to take home with me. Honestly…I’m not leaving that Octagon unless I have one of his arms with me to put on top of my mantle place.”
---------------------------------

Vasquez looked fired up, while Petersen looked anxious but as the bell rang, Petersen went all guns blazing and immediately dumped Vasquez down hard before quickly moving to side control and then effortlessly to ful mount, all within the first minute. An armbar attempt from Petersen didn’t pan out and Vasquez was able to get back to guard, though he was looking totally bewildered at the frantic pace and sublime skills Petersen was demonstrating. Unfortunately, Petersen spent most of the remainder of the round stuck in Vasquez’s guard, and taking some hard body shots. With a few seconds left, Petersen passed into mount again but time ran out.

Round two began with Vasquez getting the better of a striking exchange with a stiff low kick. After spending most of round one on his back, Vasquez was looking to take the spring out of Petersens step. Vasquez kept his distance and began to loosen up before _rocking_ Petersen with a right hand. Vasquez dived down onto the stunned Petersen but inexplicably found himself on his own back with Petersen looming over him. Again though, despite working for position, Petersen showed a reluctance to strike. It’s a round that could go either way with Vasquez doing the damage but Petersen showing control.

A touch of gloves sees round three begin and immediately Petersen looks to shoot, but he eats a hard low kick. The duo clinch and Petersen tries for a Kimura but Vasquez easily breaks free. Petersen looks in good shape and starts to bully Vasquez around the Octagon before taking it to the ground easily. Petersen again controlled the action without really threatening and the crowd were growing restless until Vasquez managed to kick Petersen away and get back to his feet looking for a grand stand finish. Vasquez went hard at it for the final thirty seconds, but could only land a leg kick and a few shots inside the clinch.

The judges have it...

29-28 Petersen
29-28 Vasquez

And

29-28 Petersen

Rahm Petersen wins by split decision. Vasquez isn’t happy about it, but he didn’t do enough to convince the judges.

It was here that we cut backstage to where Jason Mercer is working on sparring with one of his partners for a moment as Nicole Markson, an interviewer for FightFan.net, awaits her chance to talk to the former Fury-Pro superstar.

---------------------------------
JASON MERCER
---------------------------------
Nicole Markson: Jason, if we could get a word with you before this fight?

Jason Mercer: (stops sparring) Sure Nicole. Take five Reggie. Don't go too far though.

NM: First off, welcome to Fight!! and welcome back to the States. I noticed that you dropped down from Middleweight to Welterweight in coming here. What was the motivation behind it and was the cut difficult for you?

JM: You know, it wasn't that difficult for me to cut down to 170. At times in Fury-Pro I fought well under 185, and I took the chance to see if I could make the cut in a couple fights since and I found that it wasn't as hard as I thought. Granted that last week before weigh-ins I'd feel like hell but once I got on the scales I found that it was all worth it.

NM: And what of your opponent tonight, Kyle McIntosh, who's making his debut against you?

JM: Kyle, all I gotta say is I'm sorry I gotta spoil your coming out party and put a 1 in the L column for you. It's unfortunate bro, but you gotta go through me.

NM: Rumor has it that there might be some representatives of your old team, Tenchu-Do in the audience tonight, including your old nemesis Garrett Bishop. Any comment on that?

JM: Nah, none whatsoever. I'm not here to revisit the past, I'm going forward into the future, and I'm ready to do that here in FIGHT!!!

NM: Thanks Jason, back to you guys at cageside...
---------------------------------

The second fight of the evening promised be a wrestling clinic. Former FURYPRO competitor Damian Cruise took on the Japanese competitor, Chizuko Kowashi. Both men weighed in well below the 185lb maximum and at 5’6, Kowashi could easily make the cut down to Welterweight.

---------------------------------
CHIZUKO KOWASHI
---------------------------------
Chizkuo Kowashi sits in front of the FIGHT! Backdrop. He sports an orange & white Paramount Fight Club t-shirt, with a pair of sun glasses hanging from the collar. Kowashi is translated by an American with a thick Japanese accent.

CK: I consider myself one of the top middleweights in the world. I’ve proven what I was capable of in Japan, and I plan on doing it in the States’. I have came a long way since I was first under the tutelage of Master Shin’ya Funabashi, and under his wing I have honed my skills to become one of the best. Though the Americans may not know, nor care, they will soon fell my presence in their Nation.

Kowashi was then asked about the amount of talent in his weight class, and how he stacked against them.

CK: I give them all credit, I’m not the type to degrade another man with pointless slander. I’m sure they’ve all put in time at their respective gyms, have the mental and physical drive, and I’m sure they all are tough… but, I’m a different breed. A lot of those guys are one dimensional. While they may excel in one attribute, they may lack in another. I’m not like that. I can take you down and pound you out, I can get myself out of any submission, and I can strike with some of the best boxers around. I’m the best of all worlds.

When asked about his future in American MMA, Kowashi had this to say…

CK: I’ve came to America, the Mecca of mixed martial-arts, to prove that I belong. Ever since I was little, I’ve been written off as the nobody- the underdog. I’m here to prove that I can rise above and take control. I‘m here to make waves and make myself a name. I’m out for blood.

And, the camera fades.
---------------------------------

Both men looked motivated and as the bell rang, Damian Cruise came out with a good one-two combination which seemed to catch Kowashi by surprise and spurred him on to find a convincing takedown. From side control, Kowashi delivered some hard strikes which bruised up Cruise’s left eye. Kowashi clearly smelled blood and made his way into full mount where he continued to unload but Cruise rallied and hung on for dear life. Lesser men might have curled up and died, but Cruise fought his way back to half guard. True to form, the wrestler was finding it difficult from his back and absorbing punishment.

Halfway through the round, Kowashi nearly had Cruise finished as he unloaded a barrage of strikes. The powerful Japanese fighter was in total control, but Cruise was hanging on. Kowashi moved into full mount and continued his assault opening up a cut on Cruise’s cheek and chin. The referee was inches away from stopping it, but Cruise did enough to convince him otherwise.

Kowashi though wouldn’t stop, and after softening Cruise up with body shots he left the referee with no choice but to stop the fight. Cruise was a mess and really just found himself unable to find a way to get Kowashi off of him. It was a very convincing performance by the Japanese fighter and he was humble in defeat raising the arm of Cruise afterwards.

Chizuko Kowashi wins by TKO! [3:23 RD 1]

The exciting Dane Kinsley was up next. With a record of 14-6, he has some of the most lethal hands in the business. But Jeremy Brown boasts impressive Muay Thai credentials and the crowd were hyped for the match and the pre-fight interviews only made things more enthralling.

---------------------------------
DANE KINSLEY
---------------------------------
“This is my opportunity to get out of the scrub leagues. First, second, third, whatever round, as long as I'm standing and he's on the mat takin' a nap, it's goin' to be an awesome night for me.”

“I don't think this guy has enough to beat me. I've had twenty fights, he's had six? I'm already battle tested, getting my ass handed to me and learning from it, so I could figure out what I'm doin' out there.”

“I figure this fight'll be over by the second. My fist'll be in his face and my foot'll be up his ass real soon and we'll see how good this man is, 'cause I don't have any gear but forward. Can he handle the pressure?”

I'll find out and let ya know.”
---------------------------------

---------------------------------
JEREMY BROWN
---------------------------------
"The first FIGHT! show, and I'm matched up with Dane 'Banger' Kinsley. Go figure; my knees against his jaw. Even worse, his hands against my face! Not exactly the best match-up for me, but I've had worse, and come out on top."

"I'm gonna go out there and try to do what I do best, honestly. I'm pretty quick, so I don't know that Dane's fists can catch me, and I really want to test his chin with my knee. They say its 'iron', but I think I can turn it into a cheap aluminum can, hah!"
---------------------------------

Both Brown and Kinsley were eager to start, and Kinsley had to be held back in his corner. Everybody was expecting a war, and they weren’t left disappointed.

The pair came out swinging and it was Dane ‘Banger’ Kinsley who got the better of things landing a strong right hand right from the off. Brown came back with a knee, but Kinsley was looking confident dancing around the Octagon before staggering Brown with a nasty straight right. Brown hit the deck hard barely a minute in, and it looked like the fight was all but over. Kinsley stalked before landing a _stunning_ stomp. Somehow Brown got back to his feet, but he was clearly still dazed as a confident Kinsley chopped away with kicks to the thigh and a punishing left hook.

Brown looked to use his Muay Thai and clinch, but ate an uppercut. Kinsley was really dominating the stand up, and knocked Brown down a second time with another uppercut. Brown was quickly back up, but with a minute left in the round he was taking hard hard shots. Rights and lefts were coming from all angles but Brown managed to catch Kinsley _hard_ and ‘Banger’ was hurt. An incredible turn around at the end of the round saw Jeremy Brown coming forward looking to end the fight.

An absolutely electric first round, Brown looked dead and buried at one point but he dug deep and came back strong at the end of the round. Round two had a lot to live up to and once again, it delivered.

A touch of the gloves from both fighters showed that they knew what a war they were in. Brown tried to work the clinch, but a rapier like strike to the chest doubled him over within seconds. Kinsley again stalked, probing with soccer kicks and refusing to allow Brown up to his feet. The referee intervened and brought the fight back up to its feet where Kinsley took control with a strong counter punch and then a big hook. Before long, Brown was down again and this time Kinsley didn’t waste any time connecting with a _hard_ soccer kick to the head. Kinsley began to wail away with leg kicks which echoed around the venue but seemed to grow frustrated that he couldn’t land any more telling strikes and allowed the bloodied Brown to his feet.

The pair hit the side of the Octagon and Kinsley began to unload with dirty boxing. He really worked the body. With a minute left in the round the pair exchanged hard leg kicks, but as Brown came forward with a Superman punch he was staggered with a _nasty_ middle kick. Kinsley faked a one-two before landing a _brutal_ right hand _right on the button_. Brown hit the deck like he’d been shot and it was all over in spectacular fashion.

Dane Kinsley wins by KO! [4:54 RD 2]

An incredible stat shows that Dane Kinsley landed 87% of his punches in that fight, phenomenal performance and surely the Fight Of The Night.

Dutchman Aaldert Daaf was up next, taking on Grant Prosser [USA] in the Light Heavyweight division. Once again, both men were pure strikers but while Prosser liked to use his hands, Daaf was all about the kickboxing skills.

---------------------------------
AALDERT DAAF
---------------------------------
“Uh…I am excited to be…aahh…competing in FIGHT! MMA, and…uh…grateful that I am given the opportunity to have…a strong fight in my debut.”

“Grant Prosser has strong standup skills, but…uhmm…if I say so, my stand up could be stronger than his. Being from Holland, well…uhm, we take kickboxing very seriously, yeah? All respect to Prosser, but after this fight, I will invite him to come to Holland, and ayyyh, train at Team Handhaven, if he so wishes.”

“On Sunday, best wishes to you, Grant Prosser, but ah…Ik zal Handhaven. I shall stand fast.”
---------------------------------

Daaf came out with a beautiful liver kick that visibly buckled Prosser but the American continued, for better or worse. Daaf was really connecting with his kicks and Prosser didn’t have an answer, his aptitude with his feet also allowed him to express himself with his hands and barely a minute into the fightProsser was opened up above the eye after a wild haymaker.

Prosser was knocked to the ground after a series of body shots, Daaf had softened the area up earlier with a hard middle kick. Daaf managed to land a soccer kick before Prosser was stood up by the referee, though he’d probably wish he hadn’t.

Prosser surprised Daaf with a punch that found a way through and immediately Prosser uncharacteristically looked to shoot but he ended up eating a knee which absolutely _wrecked_ him. And probably broke his nose.

Aaldert Daaf wins by KO! [3:29 RD 2]

Much like Kinsley, Daaf landed a ridiculous amount of his strikes. 83% of his kicks finding a home.

The co-main event of the evening was the match with the most interest after the weigh-ins. Welterweights Jason Mercer and Kyle McIntosh had shared words, with Mercer than main antagonist. Mercer would have to find a way to stop the Muay Thai and solid Jiu Jitsu of McIntosh, but he has the experience edge to do it.

---------------------------------
KYLE McINTOSH
---------------------------------
[In a simple studio, Kyle “Stretch” McIntosh slouches back in a simple chair. Behind him is a giant FIGHT! Logo.]

"With the depth of the welterweight division right now, I have been anticipating a fight with Mercer since I've got here. Options are sparse for now, but this is the fight I've wanted. Right now, I value him as the best in the Welterweight division right now.. on paper. Me, I'm a relative unknown, but Mercer has been around and has got some key wins against some of the top international competition. This is the fight that I've wanted. I want the best opponent available, and whomever that is... I want to knock his head off!"

[McIntosh sits up straight.]

"Put it this way, when you head out to the bar or pub, you always take your shot on the hot chicks, right? Maybe you get lucky, maybe you don’t- but you at least try.. or have 10 beers..ha, before you reside yourself to some of the low-hanging fruit... the easy scores. Those other shit-bums will always be around, but Jason Mercer, the hot chick, will only be around for a little while longer. He’s not going to be the best anymore. I am going to make sure of this."

[McIntosh flashes a small grin and then nods his head to whatever he just thought of.]

"I've had the chance to go back and watch some of his fights in Fury-Pro. I know what he's about. He's got some deadly submissions, but if he wants to take the fight to the ground like he usually does, he's going to see that I'm no slouch at Jiu Jitsu myself. It will be him that's tapping out this time around. Keep it up, and I'll kick his head off. Pick your poison."

[Fade out.]
---------------------------------

Mercer was looking confident in his corner as McIntosh paced in his. Mercer had the ability to dictate where this match would take place with his superior wrestling, but he had to pick his poison matching up to the dangerous Muay Thai or BJJ or McIntosh. This had the makings of a classic encounter.

From the outset, it was clear that Mercer wanted to get things to the ground, and he managed just that with an early single leg takedown. Mercer patiently worked for position but McIntosh found a way back up. Mercer again went looking for the takedown, but before he managed it, McInitosh delivered some hard knees from inside the clinch. Mercer again worked hard and got off some strikes from inside the guard of McIntosh but he wasn’t able to keep his opponent down. The wrestling of McIntosh seemingly better than expected.

Mercer continued to work for takedowns, but he continually received punishment as he went for them. McIntosh had bruised up his opponents ribs but was himself breathing heavily and stalling. Mercer bullied McIntosh against the fence and the pair stayed locked up until the end of the round. McIntosh looked the happier of the two as he returned to his corner. Mercer had kept a fast pace up though and maybe it would come back to haunt McIntosh in later rounds.

A touch of the gloves started round two and a similar pattern of play developed. Mercer kept looking for the takedown, but McIntosh was showing great defense and making his opponent pay for each failed attempt. The pair found themselves stuck in a clinch against the fence where McIntosh landed a couple of _hard_ knees. Mercer was relentless but as the round came to a close he was visibly frustrated. McIntosh was elusive enough to avoid his strikes, and good enough to stuff his takedowns. What could he change to make the third round his?

Round three began with another quick takedown, but Mercer as quick to follow up with a body kick which caught McIntosh by surprise. Mercer initiated a clinch of his own and landed a couple of knees to the face. Had his early pace taken its toll on McIntosh? Mercer was moving well, bobbing and weaving and firing out his jab. An exchange in the centre of the Octagon brought the crowd to their feet, but no telling blows were landed. Sensing a change in momentum, Mercer again went looking for a takedown but to no avail.

Mercer was really mixing up his gameplan and taking control of the round with his clever boxing. McIntosh was struggling to cope despite the encouragement from his corner. Mercer connected with a few leg kicks before changing levels and shooting for a takedown. McIntosh struggled, but he couldn’t stop it! Mercer had the fight on the ground but McIntosh squirmed on landing and found himself on top. Mercer couldn’t believe it.

Desperate to finish the fight, Mercer swung up his legs looking for a Triangle and for a few seconds it looked as if he had it. McIntosh was struggling, but he found a way out. Mercer was back to his feet and swinging with purpose, but he ran out of time and the match went to the judges decision.

The judges have it...

29-28 McIntosh
29-28 McIntosh

And

30-27 McIntosh

Kyle McIntosh wins by unanimous decision. The damage he inflicted in the first two rounds proving enough. Whoever judged it 30-27 needs to get another job because Mercer had the third in the bag. If this had gone five rounds, Mercer might well have come out on top but as it stands, McIntosh gets a big victory.

The after fight stats show that Mercer only managed 3 from 21 takedown attempts which really is where things went wrong for him.

The final fight of the evening saw two Heavyweights collide. Michael Cross is a massive mountain of a man, but perhaps his best days are behind him. Oleg Maksimov is a tough competitor who is comfortable on his feet or on the ground. No doubt that Cross would be looking for an early knockout because the longer this fight went on, the worse it would be for him.

The fans were behind Cross and the token USA chant went up as the bell rang for round one. Maksimov started with a furious pace with one, two, three takedown attempts. The third one saw Cross dumped on his back and within a minute, Maksimov had fought his way into full mount. Cross did a good job of avoiding damage, wrapping his huge arms around the upper back of Maksimov who began to work the body with short punches.

Cross began to grow in confidence and started to fire powerful strikes from his back but this opened him up for a barrage of strikes from maksimov who came within seconds of finishing the fight. Cross’s corner screamed at him to hold on and work back to guard. The big American managed just that, but in doing so he absorbed more punishment and his left eye began to close up.

Maksimov worked for position for much of the round and with a minute left, he found his way back into mount where he punished Cross heavily. Maksimov had the fight in the bag, but over-exuberance saw Cross sweep him. Maksimov though had done the damage and Cross was in no position to take advantage. Maksimov kept busy until the end of the round. Cross was a mess, gasping for breath and with both eyes swollen.

Maksimov kept the pressure up in the second round and bullied Cross against the fence. Risking punishment, Cross held the fence to avoid the takedown but he soon found himself dragged down. Maksimov landed several strikes from the top before Cross stifled him by holding.

Maksimov did enough to remain active, peppering the body of Cross at every opportunity and occasionally landing a few strikes to the head. Cross was in no position to continue and at 2:49, the Russian landed some telling blows which opened up a cut across his opponents eyebrow. Cross wasn’t defending himself and the referee jumped in to stop the fight. Cross protested, but replays show him curling up and offering nothing in defence. The fight was over!

Oleg Maksimov wins by TKO! [2:49 RD 2]

A great night of FIGHT! Action came to a close. As promised, the show featured some excellent bouts and the crowd left happy.

Saturday 25 April 2009

FIGHT! For their Lives weigh-in news and notes

The FIGHT! Weigh-ins were held earlier today, followed by a short Q&A with FIGHT! Promoter, Jake Morgan. Some 1000 fans turned up to the weigh-ins which overall had a good atmosphere and positive reaction.

Michael Cross [260lbs] vs Oleg Maksimov [242lbs]

Jason Mercer [170lbs] vs Kyle McIntosh [170lbs]

Aaldert Daaf [205lbs] vs Grant Prosser [206lbs]

Dane 'Banger' Kinsley [180lbs] [JPN] vs Jeremy Brown [185lbs]

Chizuko Kowashi [177lbs] vs Damian Cruise [175lbs]

Aramis Vasquez [155lbs] vs Rahm Petersen [156lbs]

- The match between Kowashi and Cruise would seem to be the battle of the undersized Middleweights, neither man coming in anywhere near the maximum weight. You can add Dane Kinsley to that as well.

- Dutchman Aaldert Daaf looked incredibly lean, but might have trouble coping with the much thicker looking Prosser in their match. The pair shook hands and showed mutual respect after the token staredown.

- Michael Cross looked very soft for his match with Oleg Maksimov.

- Jason Mercer tried his best to get in the face of Kyle McIntosh but his opponent wasn’t having any of it. Mercer soon got the crowd on his back with his antics and this could well be the fight of the night. McIntosh simply nodded and smiled as Mercer got up close and personal.

- Vasquez/Petersen had some intensity as well with Petersen in particular looking ready to fight there and then.

-Stephen Greer, former FURY PRO combatant and one time professional wrestler was seen in attendance.

- Jake Morgan refused to confirm reports that a show will be held on May 24th, saying that the company was still exploring possibilities. He also stated that FIGHT! were looking to bring in the best fighters in the world, available or not.

Thursday 23 April 2009

More FIGHT! signees

News coming out of FIGHT! Towers have confirmed several new signings to bolster the fledgling promotion's ranks. Jake Morgan certainly has his chequebook out to try and ensure that the FIGHT! roster is the best in the business.

Making his MMA debut with FIGHT! MMA, Rahm Petersen has an extensive Brazilian Jiu-jitsu background. Head BJJ instructor for the up and coming Milwaukee Top Team, Petersen has competed in the upper echelon of submission grappling for several years. No longer content training only one discipline, he’s looking to dive headfirst into Mixed Martial Arts, and hoping for big results.

“My Brazilian Jiu-jitsu credentials speak for themselves. I was awarded my black belt under Renaldo Gracie. I’ve been to the second round of the ADCC 77kg Division. I’ve competed at the Mundails in the 70kg Devision."

"I don’t care about being punched in the face. People romanticize the more brutal martial arts as producing the tougher fighters, but I will prove that Brazilian Jui-Jitsu is tougher than most other forms. I am confident in my toughness, in my heart, and especially in my submission abilities, and I will show them all in FIGHT! MMA.”

Another fighter making the jump to FIGHT! is Welterweight Kyle McIntosh [5-2-1] - also fighting out of Milwaukee Top Team. McIntosh is a well rounded fighter who looks to utlise his Muay Thai background where he can, but the American is also happy putting his significant Ju Jitsu skills to good use on the ground.

"I've got a lesser known profile than a lot of these guys here, so I feel to get the recognition, I need to make an immediate impact. I feel I'm pretty well rounded, but my strength is in my Muay Thai and I'd put it against anybody in FIGHT! The rules in FIGHT! are a little looser than I'm accustomed to, but this should play in my favor. I'm aching to get the biggest name opponents I can get. The bigger the name, the bigger the impact. "

"I know I'm from a smaller camp out of the Midwest, but MTT is going places just like I am. Rahm Peterson will be around also to assure the word is spread. The guy is one of my best sparing partners. He's a black belt in jiu-jitsu, has a long, lanky body and great guard, and his kickboxing is hard, with good technique. He's just starting as a professional though, so I guess he's MTT's secret weapon. I look for him to do big things at 155, like I plan on doing at 170. "

Two new Heavyweights have also been confirmed. Popular American slugger, Michael Cross [16-7-0] is joined by Russian Oleg Maksimov [8-1-0]. Going by the moniker 'The Marksman', Maksimov is a powerful fighter skilled in all aspects of the sport. Anyone stepping into the cage with him will have a hard job staying upright, be it from Maksimovs punishing kicks or his near unstoppable takedowns. Cross is a veteran of the sport, having amassed 23 professional bouts in a ten year career.

The exciting Japanese Middleweight Chizuko Kowashi [6-3-1] makes the move from Japan to FIGHT! The 34 year old wrestler is as tough as they come, and his shot is one of the most feared in the business. Once Kowashi gets someone down, they very rarely make it back to their feet.

Middleweight Jeremy "The Sensation" Brown [4-2-0], a Muay Thai fighter from Tenessee will be looking to put his dangerous clinch to good use when he steps inside the cage. The 27 year old trains with the well respected Phoenix Training Club and is sure to put on an exciting fight whenever called upon.

At 5'4, Del Canada [7-4-0] could easily be overlooked in the Lightweight division, but the Fresno native posesses some of the sickest Ju Jitsu in th world. Once Canada has a hold of something, he'll be looking to tear it clean off in record time. Canada has a chin seemingly made of granite making him a very dangerous proposition for anyone unfortunate enough to step into the cage with him.

William 'The Wookie' Wilson [12-5-0] adds his frenetic pace and energy sapping strength to the Welterweight division.

"I couldn't be happier to be signed up to FIGHT! I've challenged myself with some of the best in the business, but FIGHT! brings a whole new level of competition to the table. I'm looking to get off to a quick start and put myself in pole position for a title shot."
http://fight-online.blogspot.com/
http://fightboard.forummotion.com/

Wednesday 22 April 2009

FIGHT! Strat

Once you've got yourself a match in FIGHT! the hard work begins. You'll have to put in the hours training, do your best to create a buzz about the fight, as well as make it to the weigh-ins in shape.

---------------------------

THE BASICS
---------------------------

Fighter Name :

Fighter Opponent :


---------------------------
THE TRAINING / IMPROVEMENTS
---------------------------

You may add 1 attribute point to any of your statistics [to a maximum of 20] per match you are involved in, this will count as 'training'. Motivation/Heart, Toughness and KO Resistance can not be upgraded. Once you have reached the maximum 20, I'll let you know.

If you have done enough to hype your match, you may receive additional attribute points as well.

Training Improvement :


---------------------------
MATCH STRATEGY
---------------------------

Select from the below options [with an X] to put your strategy into action. If you want to try a different strategy per round [for example, you might feel that your conditioning will become a factor later in the fight and so may decide to start the fight slowly etc], simply place a 1, 2, 3 in the boxed area

Gameplan :
All-Round [ ]
Punches & kicks [ ]
Punches [ ]
Kicks [ ]
Clinch Striking [ ]
Go to the ground [ ]

Ground Gameplan :
Sub [ ]
GnP [ ]
Sub + GnP [ ]
LnP [ ]
Stand up [ ]

Clinch Gameplan :
All-Round [ ]
Punches [ ]
Knees [ ]
Punches + knees [ ]
Takedown/Throws [ ]
Avoid Clinching [ ]

Fight Mode :
Natural [ ]
Offensive [ ]
Defensive [ ]


---------------------------
WEIGH-INS
---------------------------

Put a few details about your fighters actions at the weigh-ins, what they weigh in at [if overweight, provide some more info], how they react to the staredowns etc .

Weigh-in weight :

Stare down reaction:


---------------------------
ON SHOW PROMO
---------------------------

This is the biggy, set the stage and create the hype for the fight. The usual rules apply, keep things simple. Fighter A sitting down talking in front of a black background. Somewhere in the lines of 250 to 500 words should do it.

Tuesday 21 April 2009

FIGHT! bring in two more

The ranks of California based MMA promotion, FIGHT! were swelled today with the confirmed signings of two top competitors.

Jason Mercer, who trains with Team No Mercy up in big Bear CA will be joining the FIGHT! Welterweight division, and, with a 12-3 record is already being considered the front runner for the Title Belt. A patient technician, Mercer enjoyed success early in his career in Japan before returning to North America.

Mercer had this to say:

"Well I'm glad to say that I'm back here in the US, finally back in the big time where I belong. I've been doing a lot of my due diligence lately with running my own team now, and I'd just like to say that Team No Mercy is accepting any fighters who want to join up, and we're more than happy to train with any of the other teams out there save for Team Tenchu-Do. I look forward to making sure that the Welterweight division here in the US learns what fear is all about."
Also confirmed to be joining FIGHT! on an initial three bout contract will be Dane Kinsley. Who is Dane Kinsley? Aside from being one of the many signings for FIGHT! MMA, Dane Kinsley is a 25 year old middleweight from Chicago with a 14 and 6 record. The man known simply as "Banger" is considered one of the top up and coming strikers in the fight game with an iron chin to go with his hands of stone. All 14 of his victories have come by way of knockout, while his 6 losses have come by either submission or decision early on his career. Once Kinsley developed the necessary defensive skills to maximize his stand up game, the sky has seemed to be the beginning rather than the limit for the kid from the Second City.

Although a date has not been officially set for the debut FIGHT! show, May 24th has been heavily rumored. Further developments are set to be released over the coming days.

http://fight-online.blogspot.com/
http://fightboard.forummotion.com/

Sunday 19 April 2009

The FIGHT! Handbook

***updated 19 April 2009***

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

1] What is FIGHT!

1.1] In Character
1.2] Out of Character

2] How it works
2.1] Overview
2.2] Attributes
2.3] Stratting
2.3] Promo'ing
2.4] Attributes Gains/Losses
2.5] Weight Classes
2.6] Titles
2.7] Fight Rules

3]. Applying
3.1] Application

========================
1.1] I-C BACKGROUND
========================


FIGHT! is the latest MMA promotion to be launched in the UNITED STATES, more specifically California and the surrounding area.

The promotion is backed by self-made multi-millionaire (via Telecoms) and MMA enthusiast, Jake Morgan who previously helped fund the JAPAN based FURY-PRO organisation between 2006-07.

His vision is to once again create a stable yet spectacular MMA promotion that will output its shows via Pay-Per-View and DVD. Morgan also hopes to get some time on a national TV network in the near future.

Favouring the traditional 'octagon' as well as a ruleset which allows for stomps, soccer kicks and knees to the head of downed opponents, Mr Morgan has promised hard-hitting action, enthusiastic support and an endless pot of money for FIGHT! as he looks to quickly establish the promotion as the home of great fights and fighters.

========================
1.2] OOC BACKGROUND
========================


FIGHT! will be a low maintenance v/e-fed targeting those people interested in MMA, the second that I will have put my name behind (the first being FURY-PRO).

Using a heavily customised MMA generator, FIGHT! will deliver 1 monthly Pay-Per-View event. The match reports themselves will be worked over by myself to provide a cleaner, friendlier and more engaging read than that which is churned out by the sim, results will however be in a clipped, recap style.

All results will be determined by the sim, I don't believe it is possible to script an MMA match and so won't be attempting to do so, sometimes you get shocks, surprises, wars or snooze-fests.

FIGHT! will allow for career players to improve their characters statistics within the match generator and watch them suffer shock defeats, score amazing against the odds victories and finally climb to the top of their weight class. I'll also accept applications from people who simply want to send in a character, I'll take them on and handle any strategy/improvements they may have - but, I'd appreciate you checking back and occasionally sending across a press release or two or drop me an email to keep the character going in the direction you want.

FIGHT! is a work in progress, I know MMA and the sim but how they inter-relate is going to take time to figure out. I encourage any feedback and comments/suggestions on how things are going. Having run the fairly successful FURY-PRO a couple of years back, I'm confident that FIGHT! can reach the same standard.

========================
2.1] HOW IT WORKS
***updated 19 April 2009***
========================

FIGHT! is different to most e-feds because there are varying aspects that affect how well your fighter performs, be it the traditional PROMO's you put out giving you a boost or the STRATEGISING you embark on proving to be the difference.

FIGHT! will be run as a 'career-sim'. Do not expect your fighter to max out all stats and become an unstoppable phenom, that just wouldn't be fun. Instead, if your fighter is on the end of three consecutive losses you can expect to be receiving a pink slip in the post. And how many 40 year old superstars are there really likely to be.

Equally, if you are on the end of a crushing flash KO loss, that chin of yours won't be as tough as it once was. Will you continue to stand and trade, opening yourself up for yet more damage, or will you adapt your gameplan and try to protect what you have... these are the decisions that will make FIGHT! more than just a simple e-fed. To be successful, you need to look at the bigger picture.

Match purses will be released after the events, along with any Fight of the Night, KO of the Night and Submission of the Night bonuses.

I'm looking at how sponsorship could work.

========================
2.2] ATTRIBUTES
***updated 19 April 2009***
========================

The generator used for FIGHT! allows you to create a detailed character with a series of abilities including CONDITIONING, AGGRESSIVENESS, PUNCHING, KICKING, SUBMISSION etc etc.

Each attribute has a value assigned to it and it is these values that you can improve over the course of time depending on your wins/losses etc. All stats are capped at 20, you can't get higher than that.

Once your fighter reaches 280 attribute points total, they will stop gaining and the only way is downhill. Moving from 250 points to 280 is likely to take a long time, if ever, but fighters do not stay at the top of their game for long, make the most of your success and the money it brings.

========================
2.3] MATCH STRAT
========================


Your match strat will allow you to fight in various styles and adjust how often you want to attempt various kicks, strikes, takedowns etc. This means you can try and counter your STRIKER opponent by closing the distance and going for take-downs etc.

========================
2.4] PROMO'ING
***updated 19 April 2009***
========================

The ability to create hype around a fighter is an important part of FIGHT! The more people get behind the character, the more rewards that fighter is likely to receive.

During each cycle, there will be several opportunities to promo.

Newsbytes
Leading up to your fight, you can release news and rumours, interviews and more to create 'the buzz'.

Weigh-ins
These will occur the day before each event, and offer the opportunity to add some further depth to your fighter. You can come in on, under or over weight - initiate a tense staredown, crack a joke etc. These small snippets of information will help to make your character more accessible to the viewing public.

Pre-Fight
As is the norm, before each match, the fighters have the opportunity to have the final word.

Post-Event Press Conference
After every show, the fighters get the opportunity to reflect on their matches.

========================
2.4] ATTRIBUTE GAINS/LOSS
***updated 19 April 2009***

========================


Training
You may add 1 attribute point to any of your statistics [to a maximum of 20] per match you are involved in, this will count as 'training'. Motivation/Heart, Toughness and KO Resistance can not be upgraded.

Popularity/Promoing
It is possible, that consistent work in hyping your character will result in additional attribute points being awarded. Newsbytes, pre-match, post-match and weigh-in material will all be taken in to account.

Match Outcomes
Match outcomes/injuries will have an effect on your fighters attributes and popularity.

========================
2.5] WEIGHT CLASSES
========================


Weight classes are as follows. In future, it may be possible to fight above your weight or even fight above your designated weight [assuming you 'cut' weight for the weigh in.] Currently though, you fall into the below categories.

Lightweight - over 145 lbs. to 155 lbs.
Lightweights can be 4'11" - 6'0" tall.
Lightweights over 5'8 receive a 1 point penalty for every inch over 5'8
Lightweights under 5'5 receive a 1 point bonus for every inch under 5'5


Welterweight - over 155 lbs. to 170 lbs.
Welterweights can be 5'5" - 6'2" tall.
Welterweights over 5'10 receive a 1 point penalty for every inch over 5'10
Welterweights under 5'7 receive a 1 point bonus for every inch under 5'7

Middleweight - over 170 lbs. to 185 lbs.
Middleweights can be 5'6" - 6'4" tall.
Middleweights over 6'1 receive a 1 point penalty for every inch over 6'1
Middleweights under 5'10 receive a 1 point bonus for every inch under 5'10

Light Heavyweight - over 185 lbs. to 205 lbs.
Light Heavyweights can be 5'7" - 6'5" tall.
Light Heavyweights over 6'3 receive a 1 point penalty for every inch over 6'3
Light Heavyweights under 5'11 receive a 1 point bonus for every inch under 5'11

Heavyweight - over 205 lbs. to 265 lbs.
Heavyweights can be 6'0" - 6'8" tall.
Light Heavyweights over 6'5 receive a 1 point penalty for every inch over 6'5
Light Heavyweights under 6'2 receive a 1 point bonus for every inch under 6'2

========================
2.6] TITLES
========================


FIGHT! will feature a WORLD TITLE for each weight class. Challengers will be decided by the rankings and provocative media output.

========================
2.7] FIGHT! RULES
========================


The FIGHT! rulebook can be found here. As a general overview, Soccer Kicks, Stomps, Knees and Elbows to a downed opponent are allowed. Bouts are 3x5 minute rounds, with 2 further rounds in a Championship fight.

========================
3] APPLYING
========================


In the interests of creating a balance, all characters will start off with an equal footing and be allowed a certain number of points to distribute across their attributes [250]. In the UNLIKELY event I agree to let in a character with a 'history' special dispensations will be made.

Please don't bother sending in any 'wrestling' characters who are currently active in an e-fed. It's one or the other please...

========================
3.1] APPLICATION
========================


If you've made it this far, you might be interested in applying. So click here...