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Boss's Picks: UFC 146 - Dos Santos vs Mir

2012-05-26T11:45:00.002-04:00

MAIN CARD (pay-per-view) Champ Junior Dos Santos vs. Frank Mir (for heavyweight title) - Boss's pick: Dos Santos rd2 TKO ref stoppage strikes.

Antonio Silva vs. Cain Velasquez - Boss's pick: Silva rd1 TKO ref stoppage strikes.

Dave Herman vs. Roy Nelson - Boss's pick: Nelson rd3 unanimous decision.

Shane Del Rosario vs. Stipe Miocic - Boss's pick: Del Rosario rd1 submission Kimura.

Lavar Johnson vs. Stefan Struve - Boss's pick: Struve rd2 submission triangle choke.

PRELIMINARY CARD (FX) Diego Brandao vs. Darren Elkins - Boss's pick: Elkins rd3 unanimous decision.

Edson Barboza vs. Jamie Varner - Boss's pick: Barboza rd3 unanimous decision.

C.B. Dollaway vs. Jason "Mayhem" Miller - Boss's pick: Miller rd2 submission, rear naked choke.

Dan Hardy vs. Duane "Bang" Ludwig - Boss's pick: Hardy rd1 KO punch.

If You Enjoyed This Article Please Comment. Support us by following our twitter and our facebook fan page. It is the best way to stay up to date on local MMA! Any news you would like us to share email us at westernmassmma@gmail.com. Thanks!

UFC 146: Dos Santos vs Mir

2012-05-25T07:47:00.000-04:00

Date: May 26, 2012
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Venue: MGM Grand Garden Arena
Broadcast: Pay-per-view, FX and Facebook

MAIN CARD (pay-per-view)
Champ Junior Dos Santos vs. Frank Mir (for heavyweight title)
Antonio Silva vs. Cain Velasquez
Dave Herman vs. Roy Nelson
Shane Del Rosario vs. Stipe Miocic
Lavar Johnson vs. Stefan Struve

PRELIMINARY CARD (FX)
Diego Brandao vs. Darren Elkins
Edson Barboza vs. Jamie Varner
C.B. Dollaway vs. Jason "Mayhem" Miller
Dan Hardy vs. Duane "Bang" Ludwig

PRELIMINARY CARD (Facebook)
Paul Sass vs. Jacob Volkmann
Kyle Kingsbury vs. Glover Teixeira
Mike Brown vs. Daniel Pineda

WesternMassMMA.com's Vlog Show #2

2012-05-25T06:40:00.001-04:00

It has been a few weeks since we have had a vlog. This one is me and Mike Strazzere talking about all the upcoming events. We did this before the Premier FC that took place last Sunday. We talk about a few match ups from all the upcoming shows and our take. Hope you all enjoy it. I feel these are more entertaining than listening to a radio show or podcast. What do you all think?? Let us know and we will continue to do more.

PFC~9~Pallini Vs. T.Flores

2012-05-24T17:10:00.001-04:00

Here is the first video I decided to put up from last Sunday's Premier FC tournament.

Nick lost his last fight in April so he is officially out of the tournament, but Premier loves Pallini so they made sure he was on the card again. Tim is debuting as an amateur just as his brother, Mike "Spider Monkey" Flores is preparing to head West in search of MMA Gold and a fresh start. Join us as we talk with Mike in an upcoming article. We will find out his plans for MMA and what in the hell is up with a move to the desert.

Thanks to Frontier Community Access Television for supplying Premier FC and www.WesternMassMMA.com with great vids.

Credits are as follows.

Community Producer and Camera Op.: Joe Leonard

Camera Op.: Nolan Cadigan

Video Switcher and Live Editor: Gabe Chapley

Reality Fighting June 2nd 2012 Teaser

2012-05-24T08:04:00.000-04:00

June 2nd is just around the corner and we are all looking forward to the next installment of Reality Fighting. For those of you who don't know, Reality Fighting has found a beautiful home at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville CT. Unfortunately MMA was not passed through the state to legalize the sport but lucky for CT fans you can still enjoy it at Mohegan Sun!! Right now they have 11 professional fights and they are great matchups as usual. They have two title fights on the card and a female fight which I am real excited about. Many big names on the card that if you have been following along with us, you definitely have heard of them. You can still get your tickets by clicking here. Tickets start at $35 bux and go up to $75. This is stadium seating, not a bad seat in the house!! Make an afternoon of it, hit the slots, eat at Pepe's pizza place and relax to some great mma fights at night! Ok enough of me hyping up the card, lets break it down.

We have Mike Flores taking on Robbie Leroux in the flyweight division. I enjoy this weight class because this is more of their natural weight. Mike Flores is an independent fighter and has a record of 4-1. We all remember his last fight in Western Mass where he got the devastating knockout over Fred Mandracchia at Umass Mullins Center in just 12 seconds. He has another knockout and a decision victory in his career. His one loss came to Josh Spearman back in 2009. They don't call him the Spider Monkey for nothing. He will be ready to put on a show. His opponent Robbie Leroux is also 4-1. He is dropping down to 125lbs and I believe he trains with Clinch MMA. He is a well rounded fighter with a submission, decision and a ref stoppage to punches in his career. Mark my word, this will not be a boring fight!!

Then we have a middleweight fight between Ricardo Georges and Eric Sommer. Ricardo trains with Team Pradal Serey and has had a tough time finding fights. His has many opponents drop out and TPS looked to Reality to get them a tough opponent. Ricardo is 0-1 professional career and his loss came to a tough BJJ guy, Carlos Neto at Victory Promotions last November via decision. He had a great amateur career and was 7-1 I believe. One thing is for certain, he is hungry for his first career win. His opponent Eric Sommers trains with CTMMA and has a record of 0-1 as well. His only career loss came at a previous Reality back in October where he lost via ref stoppage to Jason Ward due to punches. I was there that night and that was an awesome fight!! Ricky wants to stand, Eric likes to stand. I see this being a great standup battle. Who will get their first career win on June 2nd?? We will know soon enough!

Next is Middleweight fight Jason Ward against Jesse Peterson. Jason Ward has a record of 4-1 according to Reality's site and trains with Black Dragon. He has two victories via tko to punches. His one loss came back in May to Dwight Grant at a previous Reality. His opponent Jesse trains with SSSF and also with Central Maine BJJ. He has a record of 6-1 and is a very well rounded fighter. He has two KO, 2 sub and 2 decision wins. Can't get much more well rounded than that. His only loss came to Nate Kittredge at a Reality back in 2007. He hasn't lost in a while and isn't planning on losing June 2nd either!! I have seen both of these fighters fight very recently and I can't see this being a boring fight.

Thane Stimson is set to take on Rob Font. Thane had an awesome amateur career. He trained with TPS for a bit then went to California to train with Team Alpha Male. He is now back and fighting around here and it is a real treat to see. He is 1-1 in his pro career. He lost a split decision to Zech Lange at a previous Warrior Nation. His last fight he was victorious over Tyson Chartier and one in the first round via submission. Now he is taking on another tough opponent in Rob Font. Rob trains with Team Sityodtong and has a record of 1-1. He had a great amateur career and had his pro debut at the Mullins Center at Premier FC 7 and defeated Matt Tuthill via rear naked choke in round 1. He then went on and fought Desmond Green from Bombsquad where he lost the decision back in April. This is a matchup that everyone in New England has been waiting for. This is the cream of the crop right here. I for one, can't wait for this fight.

Chris Simmons will be fighting Aniss Alhajjajy. This will be at a catchweight of 150lbs and is going to be another great matchup. Chris trains with Strikezone and has a record of 6-2. He has one KO, 4 sub and 1 decision victory. He has strung a couple of losses in a row and plans to change that June 2nd. His opponent Aniss, now trains with Team Pradal Serey and has a record of 5-3. He has 3 submission victories and one decision win. He also has strung a couple of losses in a row and will be looking to change that. As you can see from their victories they are both very comfortable on the ground. I expect this to be a jiu jitsu showing with many submission attempts being thrown.

Leroy Derricott is ready to square off with Brendan Rooney in the lightweight division. Leroy trains with Team Renegade and has a record of 2-2. He has one submission and one ref stoppage to punches victory. His two losses came via submission. Leroy is very well rounded and never has a boring fight. His opponent Brendan trains with CTMMA and has a record of 2-1. He has two submission victories and one loss via tko to punches back at a CES last September. Leroy is going to want to keep this standing and use his fists. Brendan is going to want keep it on the ground and work the submission. I am anxious to see this fight as well.

Now for the women's matchup. This one is in the 135lb division and is between Kaline Medeiros and Peggy Morgan. Peggy Morgan trains with Triumph in NH and had an undefeated amateur career of 2-0. She had a big win over a BJJ fighter Fernanda Aurajo at a Combat Zone. Remember this fight was supposed to be at Cage Titans but due to commission rules, the fight got moved to NH. She then fought for CFX for a title over Jen Rivera and won that due to corner stoppage at the beginning of Round 3. She is now turning pro because let's face it the women's division are pretty scarce in that division around here. Her opponent Kaline is as tough as they come. She has a record of 1-2, trains with TriForce and her two losses came to Katie Merrill and Marianna Kheyfets. Don't let her record fool you, she is tough as nails. Her last fight she knocked her opponent out in 7 seconds. Reality fans remember her against Marianna and it was a jiu jitsu showing that night. This fight is simple to figure out the gameplan. Peggy is going to want to use her reach and her height and keep it standing. Use her kicks and punches to keep the distance. If that isn't working, her ground game is damn good too. Kaline is going to want to stay in close and back her up so she can get her punches in. Kaline is very comfortable on the ground as well. This is MMA and anything can happen. The fans will be on the edge of their seat when this fight is happening, I guarantee it!

Jeremy Ross will be facing Jimmy Collins. Jeremy Ross trains with Gladiator BJJ and comes into this fight with a record of 5-3. He has four out of five of his wins via submission. He fought for Reality in October where he beat Leroy Derricott via submission in round 1. He then went to AFO and fought Brandon Chagnon in a higher weight class for a title and won that in the first round via submission. His opponent is Jimmy Collins who trains with Lauzon MMA and has a record of 5-0. He just recently fought for Cage Titans and defeated Lionel Young via submission in round 3. In fact four out of his five wins have come via submission. I expect this fight to a good jiu jitsu battle. Great matchup and very even. Well done Joe Cuff, Reality's Matchmaker!

The Mangler Matt Bessette will be facing Andres Jeudi in the 155lb division. Matt trains with Underdog BJJ and has a record of 8-3. He has four submission wins and a couple of decision victories. He fights tough fights everytime, he has wins over Saul Almeida, Jon Benoit, Anthony Kaponis. Two out of his 3 losses came via decisions, and one was to Joe Proctor who we all know is on The Ultimate Fighter this season. His other loss was a split decision to Bill Jones. Mangler always comes ready to fight! His opponent Andres trains with Sityodtong and has a record of 4-0. He has a ko and a tko victory to punches and two decision victories in his career. He has outstanding standup and muay thai. I can see this being an outstanding stand up battle. This has potential to be fight of the night. Mangler is never in a boring fight!!

Now onto the two title fights. For the featherweight title we have John Naples against Erik Lee. John is from Strikezone and has a record of 2-0 according to sherdog.com. He has victories over Terin Swanson and Steven Carr. Let me tell you those two opponents are tough to beat. He has excellent standup and will definitely bring it on June 2nd. His opponent Erik trains with CTMMA and has a record of 3-0 according to sherdog.com. He has two submission and one decision victories. This is a classic matchup of striker versus ground guy. Don't get me wrong Erik can stand too but I can see this being a very close matchup. John is gonna want to keep it standing and Erik will probably want to take it on the ground. Who will be victorious and win the belt that night?? Find out on June 2nd.

The last fight of the evening is for the welterweight title. It is between Nate Lamotte and Brett Oteri. Nate trains out of Team Burgess and has a record of 12-5. He has two ko, 7 submission and 3 decision victories! He is very well rounded and has fought for Reality and other organizations for a long time. In fact he fought for Reality Fighting back in 2006!! Three of his 5 losses came via submission and other two were decision losses. His opponent is Brett Oteri who trains out of Connor's MMA. Brett comes into this fight with a 9-3 record. He 1 KO, 5 submission and 3 decision victories in his career. Two of his three losses came via submission and they were two Todd Chattelle, Ryan Quinn and Matt Lee. Brett always fights tough fights and this fight is no exception. As you can see both of these fighters are very well rounded and are comfortable taking the fight wherever it goes. I can see with both fighters being well versed on the ground they may want to keep it standing but who knows! This is mixed martial arts and very tough to predict. How do you all see this going??

That concludes this teaser and I hope you all enjoyed it. I want to thank Joe Cuff and Reality Fighting for sharing with us the cards and of course putting this great show together. What can I say, they fill the seats and its pretty easy to see why. For $35 bux you can see 11 professional, well matched fights. I apologize if any of my teams, records are wrong. Just let me know and I will gladly fix. As I said above you can get your tickets by visiting ticketmaster by clicking the link here. There is one more fight that may be added to the card and that is between Miguel Santos and TBA. Reality is still looking for an opponent so that may be added as well. We hope to see you all there!! Tell us by commenting and let us know what match ups you are most excited about.

Great Deal On Jon Bones Jones Shorts!!

2012-05-23T23:06:00.000-04:00

Jon Bones Jones

Get Jon Jones MMA Shorts for $25 (normally $60) today on MMAHQ

Jon Jones MMA Shorts $25

Great MMA shorts and gear deals every day on MMA HQ.

Warrior Nation Xtreme Fighters Alliance III: Main Event Fight Video

2012-05-23T10:24:00.002-04:00

Damian Malon Vs. Dave Marfone

This was a great event last month in April. The video looks great, but you need to sit in the Hu Ke Lau to get the full effect. Stay tuned for more great vids from Warrior Nation XFA 3 as well as some re-posts that feature repeat fighters.

To start that off we have a fight from WNXFA's Nov. show featuring Damian Malon and Adam Gordon.

New Battle Xtreme Championship Poster For Upcoming June 16th 2012 Show

2012-05-21T18:48:00.000-04:00

Here is the poster for the upcoming show that is going to take place in Mass Mutual Center in Springfield MA. This new promotion is called Battle Xtreme Championship and is set to take place on June 16th 2012. This is a big arena and will have great seats all around. We have the full card located on our upcoming local card tab in our menu. It is stacked with ex UFC, Strikeforce, IFL guys. One of the fights I am excited for is Kym Sturdivant versus Robby Roberts. This is gonna be a big battle and I am looking forward to seeing Kym at his new fight weight. Another big local fight on the card is Alexandre Vaca Moreno from Team Link will be fighting Trevor Smith. For more information keep checking right here and their website http://www.bxcfights.com/. For tickets, they are available at the Mass Mutual website right here. Tickets start at just $40 bux and range up to $215 at least according to Mass Mutual website. Of course get your tickets from the local fighters to support them!!

Brent “Frosty” Dillingham Looking For Third Win vs Crowsneck Boutin at Fight Night III

2012-05-21T18:18:00.002-04:00

Lewiston, Maine (May 21, 2012) – New England Fights! (NEF) is proud to announce the return of undefeated amateur prospect Brent “Frosty” Dillingham at Fight Night III on June 16th at The Androscoggin Bank Colisee in Lewiston, Maine.

“Frosty’s been with us from the beginning and has finished all of his fights,” stated NEF co-owner and promoter Nick DiSalvo. “He’s one of the most exciting, promising amateur 205ers on the regional scene right now. His opponent is the mysterious Crowsneck Boutin that no one has ever seen but that everyone is talking about, so this will be a very fun and interesting fight when it goes down on June 16th.”

Dillingham, who earned his nickname “Frosty” from his mother in reference to his “ice cold personality and demeanor,” is the protégé of MMAAthletix owner and head trainer, Ryan Cowette. Cowette, who discovered Dillingham a couple of years ago, made sure that Frosty was well prepared before he allowed him to make his amateur debut back in February at Fight Night I. “Brent just had what it takes right from the beginning,” stated Cowette. “He has that quality that’s hard to find—a strong will. He always looks for the win. He focuses on his battles outside the cage just as much as the battles he has inside it. I believe he is the number one 205-pound amateur in the Northeast—and now we just have to prove it.”

In his mixed martial arts debut at Fight Night I, Dillingham submitted Rick Garland (1-2) in the second round in a crowd-pleasing scrap that brought fans to their feet. At Fight Night II, Dillingham continued to show off his submission skills by forcing former University of Southern Maine wrestler Chaz Guthrie (0-1) to tap in the first round due to a guillotine choke. Now Dillingham is scheduled to face newcomer Crowsneck Boutin (0-0), an independent fighter whose history is as unknown and cryptic as the origins of his unique name.

“Having spent time with both of these young men, I can promise you that this will be a terrific clash of personalities and styles,” stated NEF co-owner and matchmaker Matt Peterson. “Both guys have a fantastic and terrible kind-of quietness about them that I think will come out and lay waste to the cage—and it could get really crazy in there.”

“My opponent is an unknown, but I treat him with the same respect that I treat any fighter,” stated Dillingham. “I know he’s going to be tough and I know he’s coming to knock my head off, so that’s what I train for. I train with the best to be the best and I push myself to the breaking point daily. At Fight Night III fans can expect me to do what I always do, which is attack and annihilate my opponent before he can do the same to me.”

Fight Night III is being headlined by a heavyweight bout between former 5x UFC Heavyweight Champion of the World, Tim “The Mainiac” Sylvia (30-7) and Randy “The Wolf” Smith (14-10-1).

For more information on this event, visit www.NewEnglandFights.com. You can watch NEF videos, including an interview with Tim Sylvia at www.youtube.com/NEFMMA, follow them on twitter @nefights and join the official Facebook group “New England Fights”. Tickets for this event are on sale now at TheColisee.com or by calling The Colisee box office at 207-783-2009.

Premier FC 9 May 20th, 2012 Review

2012-05-21T01:38:00.002-04:00

I made my hike up the mountain into Holyoke Ma to the Log Cabin. I was nice and early to do my second vlog show with Mike Strazzere. I see Get Punched is here selling their great merchandise. The cage is being setup and looking nice. I believe they are using a new cage and it is looking great. The show was delayed a little but its a beautiful day and the mma fans are having a blast and getting their drinks. I see many fighters around(obviously). Notorious Nick Newell, John Cumper and Wifey are here. We have 12 fights for the afternoon. Only one fight has gotten cancelled which is Jeremy Reipold vs. Shayne Stephenson fight. Jeremy weighed in right on target and Shayne had to cancel last minute so Jeremy is advancing. He will be facing the winner of the Carlos Candelario vs. Adler Jack matchup in the finals. Karyn Wesch, promoter/matchmaker for Premier FC has setup a great card for us and the place is packed. Let's start. Rachel Doiron kicked us off with the National Anthem.

Fight 1: Marvin Maldonado(Bruno Tostes )1-2 and Mike De Los Reyes (Dexter) 1-5 135lbs

Mike starts us off with a high leg kick. Marvin works for the takedown. Mike reverses briefly but Marvin goes right back to working for the takedown. Not a whole lot of action this round but

Marvin 10-9

Rd 2: Marvin starts us off with some kicks. Mike gets in leg kick of his own. Marvin is offering a bunch of kicks. Marvin closes the distance and gets hit with a good shot. He works for the takedown but Mike ends up getting the takedown and is now in half guard.

Mike 10-9

Rd 3: Marvin is doing some high kicks. One of him connects to the body and they clinch up against the cage. Mike hooks the leg and reverses. Marvin reverses right back. Mike reverses again and gets the single leg takedown. Mike is now on top in guard. Marvin does well defending and not letting Mike get separation. Mike gets separation the last 10 seconds and gets in some ground and pound to finish the round strong.

Mike 10-9

Marvin Maldonado defeats Mike DeLosReyes via split decision. Notorious Nick Newell and I disagree but the second round was real close. The judges must have given the second round to Marvin for more leg kicks. I gave Mike the round due to the takedown and finishing the round strong. Great opening fight and congrats to Marvin on the win!

Fight 2: Isaiah Gomez(Sityodtong Northshore) 2-1 vs. Josh Smith(Jiu Jitsu Nation) 0-0 160lb

They start out banging and Josh closes the distance. Isaiah gets the double leg takedown but Josh gets right up to their feet. Josh gets a takedown of his own and Isaiah goes into a nice triangle. He pushes down on the head and gets it tight and Josh is forced to tap.

Isaiah Gomez defeats Josh Smith in Rd 1 via triangle. Nicely done Isaiah.

Fight 3: Tim Flores(Independent) 1-1 vs Nick Pallini(Independent) 2-2 135lbs

They are standing and banging!! The crowd is going wild. Nick has him cornered and getting in some big shots and Tim's mouthpiece drops. He is trying to finish the fight and the ref picks up the mouth piece and stops the fight. That is BS. They are supposed to wait til their is an opening and not disrupt the momentum. They resume the fight. They go at it again and the fighters are starting to get tired. Tim gets a takedown and is on top for the rest of the round.

Nick 10-9

Rd 2: They come out and are banging. There looked like a knee to the head here. Not sure we will have to see the video. Definitely wasn't intentional. Nick is getting in the majority of the shots. Tim gets a takedown but Nick gets in a nice triangle. He finishes hard but cannot get the tap. Tim sweeps and Nick slides into a slight armbar but not quite the submission as the round ends.

Nick 10-9

The doctor checks with Tim and allows the fight to continue.

Rd 3: They start the fight and Tim looks pretty woozy. He goes for a takedown and the ref stops the fight and the doctor calls it. What a fight!

Nick Pallini defeats Tim Flores via doctor stoppage in Rd 3. The Flores brothers are beasts in the cage!! The crowd was on their feet and this is definitely a contender for fight of the night!!

Fight 4: Ray Johns(Thunder) 0-1 vs. Tyler Rose(Ultimate MMA) 0-0 RD1

They throw a few punches and clinch near the cage. Ray gets the single leg takedown but Tyler is on top. He passes to full mount. Ray bucks him off but Tyler goes right back to full mount. Tyler gets in some ground and pound and Ray tries to get out. Tyler rolls into an armbar and gets the tap right before the round ends.

Tyler Rose defeats Ray Johns via armbar tap Rd 1.

Fight 5: Mike Ingalls(Independent) 1-1 vs Leo Powers(Dexter) 1-1 205lbs

Both fighters are swinging and Ingalls gets the takedown. Leo reverses and is now on top in guard. Ingalls works a triangle but the triangle doesn't get locked in. Leo continues the rest of the round on top.

Leo 10-9

Rd 2: They start out swinging again. Mike catches the kick and gets the takedown. He moves to the side and then passes to full mount. Leo bucks him off and is now on top in the guard. Mike bucks him off and works for an armbar. Leo defends well and spins out but Mike sinks it in again and gets the tap.

Mike Ingalls defeats Leo Powers via armbar submission Rd 2.

Fight 6: Leon Campbell(Sityodtong) 3-0 Soap Am(TPS) 2-0 RD2

Soap goes for the takedown and gets it. Leon is scrambling back to use the cage for a wall walk. Leon tries to get up but Soap slams him right back down towards the center of the cage. Soap was working the side then goes to half guard. Soap finishes the fight on top holding onto the elbow trying to work an armbar.

Soap 10-9

Rd 2: Soap gets in a leg kick. Soap gets in another leg kick and works for a takedown and gets it. Leon gets uses the cage and stands up. Soap immediately gets the double leg slamming takedown. Soap is now working the guard.

Soap 10-9

Rd 3:

Leon goes for a jumping kick that connects. He covers and Soap clinches him up against the cage and gets the takedown. Soap continues to work the ground game. Soap passes to full mount and threatens the kimura. Nothing too serious. Leon sweeps and Soap takes his back and works for the rear naked choke but time runs out.

Soap Am 10-9

Soap Am defeats Leon Campbell unanimous decision 30-27.

Fight 7: Denise Goddard (Guardian) 0-0 vs Marina Shafir(Bruno Tostes) 0-0 155lb

The girls come out swinging and Marina gets a footsweep takedown and moved immediately to full mount. He gets in position and works the armbar and cranks it deep for the tap.

Marina Shafir defeats Denise Goddard via armbar in Rd 1. Ladies and gentlemen we have a 155lb female fighter around here now!!

Fight 8: Jorden Pope (Premier Fight Team)0-0 vs Josten Mclamb (Jiu Jitsu Nation) 0-0 Rd 1

Both fighters come out swinging. Josten gets rocked and his mouthpiece goes flying by a right hand. He goes down and Jorden finishes the fight.

Jorden Pope defeats Josten Mclamb via KO early in Rd 1.

Fight 9: Sarah Payant 0-2 (Gladiator BJJ) vs Christina Houck (Bombsquad)0-0 125lbs

They are standing and swinging. Both fighters are getting in their leg kicks. Sarah gets in a good combo and backs her up. They break and Sarah gets in another good combo. Christina gets a takedown and is working the half guard. Sarah threatens with an armbar but Christina punches her way out.

Sarah 10-9

Rd 2: They start out swinging. Christina gets a takedown and Sarah uses the cage to stand back up. They continue to stand. Sarah gets in some good power shots. Both fighters are getting tired. The round is a standing battle. Fans are going nuts. Sarah had a huge crowd in attendance. What a fight!!

Sarah 10-9

Rd 3: The bell sounds and Christina is getting checked out by the doctors. The doctor stops the fight.

Sarah Payant defeats Christina Houck via doctor stoppage, could not answer 3rd round bell. Great job Sarah. You looked real good at 125lbs.

Fight 10: Carlos Candelario(Independent) 1-0 vs Adler Jack(Independent) 2-1 Rd 2

Adler went in and went for the takedown but caught in a standing guillotine and went out.

Carlos Candelario defeats Adler Jack via guillotine in 11 seconds in Rd 1.

The finals are set and Jeremy Reipold is called into the cage. Carlos Candelario vs. Jeremy Reipold for the finals in the 135lb tournament!!

Fight 11: Myles Reid(International Martial Arts) 1-0 vs. George Abele(Sityodtong)2-0 Rd 2

George ducked a punch and is working a takedown. Myles threatens with a guillotine but doesn't quite have it under. George is now in half butterfly guard. Myles buck and they stand. Myles gets a takedown of his own and is now working half guard. George bucks him off and is now on top in half butterfly guard. They stand and George works the guillotine. He is cranking on it and time runs out.

George 10-9

Rd 2: Myles gets in a huge right hand that stuns George back. George goes for a takedown and comes back to. George gets the double leg takedown. George passes to full mount and and has him pinned up against the cage. Myles bucks him off and George takes the back. He is getting in some big ground and pound. Myles scrambles and George takes the side and gets in some more hammerfists. There were some unanswered strikes and the ref stops it.

George Abele defeats Myles Reid via ref stoppage to punches. He advances to the finals! Awesome fight!!

Patrick Early(Factory) 0-1 vs. Terin Swanson(Gladiator BJJ) 1-1 145lbs

They are swinging. Pat backs Terin up but Terin punches out of it. Pat went for the takedown but got caught in a guillotine. He sinks it in deep and cranks and Pat is forced to tap.

Terin Swanson defeats Patrick Early via guillotine in Rd 1. Terin advances to 2-1. Kid looks good and has lots of potential! Great job Terin.

Awards:

Fight of the Night: Sarah Payant vs. Christina Houlk...these girls went at it!!
Submission of the Night: Carlos Candelario standing guillotine...
KO of the Night: Jorden Pope KO....happened so fast!
Blunder of the Night: Starting late due to cage issues...

Rating of the Show(1-5, 5 Being the Best)

Quality of Fights: 4.5
Star Quality: 4.5
Sound: 5
Refs: 4
Announcer: 4.5
Ring Girls: 5
Vendors: 3..I believe GetPunched was the only one there.
Overall: 4.36

We had a great time at the Premier FC 9. I am looking forward to the next show July 8th, 2012 and then the finals in August. Right now this is the only tournament happening around in here and it makes for some awesome matchups. Fighters have to deal with not being 100% because they don't want to drop out of the tournament. That is what it is all about, true warriors in the cage!! Show kicked off around 1pm I believe and got done around 4:30 in the afternoon. The two female fights were spectacular to see. You don't get to see that very often. I want to thank Karyn Wesch and all of the Premier FC staff for the wonderful hospitality. I'd like to thank Joe Leonard for running the video and the FCAT crew for helping out. All of the photos that Gary took will be posted on our fanpage. As we edit the videos we will be posting them on our youtube and on the site here for everyone to enjoy so don't change that webpage!! I would like to thank all the fighters for putting on a great show for us all. Til next time, everyone train safe and be well.

Premier FC 9 Live Updates May 20th, 2012

2012-05-20T12:31:00.004-04:00

Fights should be starting soon..keep refreshing this article for the live updates...

Fight 1: Marvin Maldonado(Bruno Tostes )1-2 and Mike De Los Reyes (Dexter) 1-5 135lbs

Marvin Maldonado defeats Mike DeLosReyes via split decision. I don't know what the refs were watching. Notorious Nick Newell and I disagree but the second round was real close.

Isaiah Gomez(Sityodtong Northshore) 2-1 vs. Josh Smith(Jiu Jitsu Nation) 0-0 160lb

Isaiah Gomez defeats Josh Smith in Rd 1 via triangle.

Tim Flores(Independent) 1-1 vs Nick Pallini(Independent) 2-2 135lbs

Nick Pallini defeats Tim Flores via doctor stoppage in Rd 3.

Ray Johns(Thunder) 0-1 vs. Tyler Rose(Ultimate MMA) 0-0 RD1

Tyler Rose defeats Ray Johns via armbar tap Rd 1.

Mike Ingalls(Independent) 1-1 vs Leo Powers(Dexter) 1-1 205lbs

Mike Ingalls defeats Leo Powers via armbar submission Rd 2.

Leon Campbell(Sityodtong) 3-0 Soap Am(TPS) 2-0 RD2

Soap Am defeats Leon Campbell unanimous decision 30-27.

Denise Goddard (Guardian) 0-0 vs Marina Shafir(Bruno Tostes) 0-0 155lb

Marina Shafir defeats Denise Goddard via armbar in Rd 1.

Jorden Pope (Premier Fight Team)0-0 vs Josten Mclamb (Jiu Jitsu Nation) 0-0 Rd 1

Jorden Pope defeats Josten Mclamb via KO early in Rd 1.

Sarah Payant 0-2 (Gladiator BJJ) vs Christina Houck (Bombsquad)0-0 125lbs

Sarah Payant defeats Christina Houck via doctor stoppage, could not answer 3rd round bell.

Carlos Candelario(Independent) 1-0 vs Adler Jack(Independent) 2-1 Rd 2

Carlos Candelario defeats Adler Jack via guillotine in 11 seconds in Rd 1.

The finals in the tournament are set Carlos Candelario vs. Jeremy Reipold for the 135lbs final.

Myles Reid(International Martial Arts) 1-0 vs. George Abele(Sityodtong)2-0 Rd 2

George Abele defeats Myles Reid via ref stoppage to punches. He advances to the finals! Awesome fight!!

Patrick Early(Factory) 0-1 vs. Terin Swanson(Gladiator BJJ) 1-1 145lbs

Terin Swanson defeats Patrick Early via guillotine in Rd 1. Terin advances to 2-1. Kid looks good and has lots of potential! Great job Terin.

Premier FC 9 Weigh Ins May 19th, 2012 At Maximum Capacity In Chicopee MA

2012-05-19T18:13:00.001-04:00

CityBoy here. I attended the weigh ins and everything went pretty smooth. We got to use our new canvas, special thanks to Premier FC for allowing us to use it and of course Prime Athletics for making it for us. All the fights are a go except Jeremy Reipold vs. Shayne Stephenson which would have been round 2 in the tournament. Unfortunately Shayne called in this morning and cancelled. Not sure what was up and as much as we all are disappointed, I hope all is well with you Shayne. As for news on that, I hear the Boss automatically advances and will take on the winner of Carlos Candelario vs. Adler Jack match! Not the way the Boss wanted it but these things happen. My sources tell me Boss may grapple tomorrow, we will see. Rather than that all fights are a go! That makes 12 fights total, one pro, 11 ammy including two female bouts for all you MMA maniacs!! I will post some of the faceoffs below. Tickets are still available at the box office...or table tomorrow at the Log Cabin. You want more weigh in photos?? You got it, check out our facebook fan page and see 'em all!!

Myles Reid Vs. George Abele

Christina Houck vs. Sarah Payant

Marvin Maldonado vs. Mike DeLosReyes

Denise Goddard vs. Marina Shafir

Ray Johns vs. Tyler Rose

Soap Am vs. Leon Campbell

Boss weighed in right on the money!!

Tim Flores vs. Nick Pallini

Strikeforce: Heavyweight Grand Prix Finale

2012-05-19T01:36:00.000-04:00

Date: May 19, 2012

Location: San Jose, California
Venue: HP Pavilion
Broadcast: Showtime and Showtime Extreme

MAIN CARD (Showtime)

Josh Barnett vs. Daniel Cormier (heavyweight grand-prix finale)
Champ Gilbert Melendez vs. Josh Thomson (for lightweight title)
Rafael "Feijao" Cavalcante vs. Mike Kyle
Nah-Shon Burrell vs. Chris Spang

PRELIMINARY CARD (Showtime Extreme)

Gesias "JZ" Cavalcante vs. Isaac Vallie-Flagg
Guto Inocente vs. Virgil Zwicker
Derrick Mehmen vs. Gian Villante
Quinn Mulhern vs. Yuri Villefort
Bobby Green vs. James Terry

Premier FC 9 May 20th, 2012 Teaser

2012-05-18T06:38:00.000-04:00

Premier FC 9 is just days away. This Sunday, May 20th, 2012 to be exact where mma fans from all over will pack their things and take a hike up the mountain to the Log Cabin located in Holyoke MA. This is the second installment of the tournament where some of the fights are Round 2 or the semifinals. The doors open at 11am and fights are set to start at 12. Some of the divisions are having their first rounds as well. The fighters who are in round 2 will not fight the next show but will fight in the finals on the last show. Karyn Wesch, the Premier FC promoter/matchmaker has done a fine job and has packed this card with lots of extra fights in addition to the tournament. We have one professional fight and two female fights also on the card with a total of 13 fights for the afternoon! Follow along with me as I share the full card and how the matchups unfold.

In the 135lb division we have two fights which are round 2 or the semifinals of the tournament. Jeremy Reipold of Team Ravenous located in Greenfield, MA comes into this fight with a 4-1 record. His only loss came to Dat Tran of Team Sityodtong. Jeremy has fought all of his fights for Premier FC and has 1 KO, 2 Submission and 1 decision victory. His opponent Shayne Stephenson in an independent fights and is no stranger to Premier FC as well. He has a record of 2-3 and his two wins all came at a Premier FC show. In the first round of the tournament Shayne defeated Nick Pallini via submission to advance. Jeremy Reipold has also beaten Nick Pallini via decision so they have that common opponent. I think this will be a good ground battle. I know both fighters real well and I know they are ready to put on a show.

The second fight in the 135lb division part of the tournament is between Carlos Candelario and Adler Jack. Carlos is an independent fights and has a record of 1-0 amateur. He won at the last show over Jim Strife via armbar. He was supposed to fight Michael Velazquez but unfortunately Mike got hurt and had to drop out. Please heal up fast Mike! Then his replacement was Mike Tabor who lost to Velazquez in round 1 but he had to drop out due to injury as well. Heal up fast too Mike! Finally Adler Jack who was defeated by Jeremy Reipold in Round 1 has stepped in!! He is an independent fighter as well and comes into this fight with a record of 2-1. I have only seen one of his fights but he quickly got the takedown on Jeremy Reipold and had good position on top. He defended a couple of submissions very well but in the end was caught in a triangle and forced to tap. I expect this bout to be another ground battle with both fighters being comfortable on the ground. Who will make it in the finals of the tournament?? We will find out on May 20th!

For the 145lb tournament we have round 2 featuring Leon Campbell against Soap Am. Leon is from Sityodtong and comes into this fight with a perfect amateur record of 3-0. He won the first round back on April 1st and by ko over his opponent. His opponent Soap from Pradal Serey made his amateur debut at the last Premier FC and won via submission in rd 3. He then followed that up with a 11 second KO victory over Cory Pickering at AFO. Add that all up and he comes into this fight with a 2-0 record. One of these fighters will be leaving May 20th with their first career loss. I expect this to be a fight we all will remember. Soap will want to use his wrestling and take Leon to the ground and control him. Leon will want to keep this fight standing and use his legs to keep his distance from Soap. I could be wrong and I can't wait for this fight! For the second half of the 145lb tournament we have Jorden Pope from Premier Fight team facing Josten Mclamb from Jiu Jitsu Nation. Both of these fighters will be making their amateur debut and are ready to show what they are made of!

In the 170lb tournament we have the second round fight between Myles Reid and George Abele. Myles is from International Martial Arts and make quick work of his previous opponent and won in a minute via guillotine choke. He looked very comfortable for his amateur debut standing and on the ground. His opponent George is from Sityodtong and comes into this fight with a 2-0 record. He has fought both his fights for Premier FC. He won both of his fights via decision and looks very comfortable in the cage as well. I predict this fight will come down to a ground battle but we will see. We also have that afternoon a first round 170lb fight featuring Ray Johns and Tyler Rose. Ray Johns lost to George Abele at PFC 7 at the Mullins Center but fought a real good fight. He lost the decision but there were times where he had dominant positions. He is from Team Thunder and comes into this fight with an 0-1 record. Tyler is from Ultimate MMA and will be making his amateur debut.

We have two female bouts of the evening. This is a rare treat and I can honestly say I have never been to a show where I have seen two female bouts in one evening. The first one is between Denise Goddard and Marina Shafir. Denise was supposed to fight Sarah Payant a while ago and was unable to make weight at 135 so that fight had to be turned into a grappling match with Katie Merrill at a previous PFC. This fight is in the 155lb division which is a more comfortable weight for Denise. Denise is from Guardian and will be making her amateur debut. She will have her work cut out for her against Marina. Marina is good friends with Ronda Rousey, yes I am sure you have all heard of her. She was on a the JR Judo team with her and is from New York. She trains with Bruno Tostes and is ready to make her amateur debut. I predict this will be a striking battle and if Marina gets in trouble she will use her judo to fall back on. The second female bout of the evening is between Sarah Payant and Christina Houck. Sarah has a record of 0-2 and trains with Gladiator BJJ. Both of her fights have come via submission in the first round. I know Sarah has been training hard and ready to put on a show for everyone. Her opponent Christina is from NY and trains with Bombsquad. She will be making her amateur debut that afternoon. If she is like her team mates from Bombsquad I expect her to have some great wrestling/ground skills to show off for us that afternoon. This fight will be in the 125lb weight class and I can't wait for both of these fights!

Then we have Marvin Maldonado against Mike De Los Reyes in the 135lb division. Marvin trains in NY with Bruno Tostes and has a record of 1-2. He has one decision win and two decision losses. One of his losses came to Jacob Smith for Kaged Kombat so if he hung in there with Jake then I know he is gonna put on a show. Mike trains with team Dexter and has a record of 1-5. He is a very entertaining fighter to watch and his last fight was against Jared Sarno for AFO. He did an outstanding job in that fight and had many dominant positions. Most of his losses were from decision and he has lost some submissions. I can see this fight going to a decision here but prove me wrong guys! I am not saying it is going to be boring, I guarantee it won't be! Mike has never been in a boring fight!

Next is Isaiah Gomez against Josh Smith. Isaiah is from Sityodtong Northshore and has a record of 1-1. According to Sherdog, he has one decision loss and one decision win. This fight is at a 160lb catchweight and his opponent Josh Smith will be making his amateur debut. He fights out of Jiu Jitsu Nation and I see his facebook posts and he is training hard and will be ready! We also have Mike Ingalls against Leo Powers in the 205lb division. Mike is an independent fighter and comes into this fight with a record of 1-1. He has one KO win and his only loss came via decision. His opponent Leo is from Team Dexter and also has a record of 1-1. His win was a ref stoppage to punches. Coincidentally both of the fighters have wins over Anthony Soto so they have that for a common opponent. I think this is going to be a good standing battle and who knows, we may see a knockout!

Tim Flores, brother of Mike Flores who we all saw get the brutal knockout over Fred Mandrachia at Premier FC 7 is set to fight Nick Pallini. Tim is an independent fighter who comes into this fight with a 1-1 record. This is in the 135lb division. I couldn't find any info on him. Nick has fought for Premier FC many of times and comes all the way up from PA to fight for us all. He is an independent fighter and has a record of 2-3. I don't have all his stats but I know he has a submission victory over Chris Chartier and has lost to Shayne Stephenson, Jeremy Reipold and Leon Campbell via submission. He is a very entertaining fighter and is proud to fight for us in Mass. We thank you for that Nick.

For our pro fight of the afternoon we have Patrick Early against Terin Swanson. Patrick trains with the Factory and comes into this fight with an 0-1 record. There is a little discrepancy in his record. MixedMartialArts.com says 0-2 and Sherdog says 0-1. Either way he lost one definitely by ref stoppage in round 1. Terin trains with Gladiator BJJ and has a record of 1-1. This fight is in the 145lb division. Terin has a knockout loss to John Naples and in his last fight for Reality he came up with the victory via RNC to John Lopez. WesternMassMMA.com fans have read about him in the featured fighter we did on him not to long ago. Terin is a good kid and works hard. This is going to be a great way to end the afternoon of fights!

There you have my teaser MMA fans. I hope you all enjoyed it and if anything is incorrect by all means please let me know and I will gladly fix. Also I recommend for all the fighters to sign up with sherdog and get your information accurate so people like me who are forgetful can look you up! It will be a great afternoon of 13 fights, featuring some great second round of the tournament, two female bouts and of course the one pro fight. It is unclear at this time how the rest of the tournament will work out but as soon as we know we will let you know. Again the tickets are in range 75, 45 and 30 and you can get them by clicking here. I hope to see you all there! We gotta support the promotions in Western Mass because if we don't, they may disappear. Very sad but its a business and that is why we are here to educate you all and let you know about their happenings! I will be at the weigh ins taking photos and I will do a quick writeup Saturday night before the Strikeforce fights start. I will post all the photos I take on our facebook fan page as well!

CES Press Relese--No rest for the weary

2012-05-17T17:06:00.000-04:00

Chattelle ready to jump right back in the cage following loss to ‘Doomsday’ Howard

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (May 17^th, 2012) – After readily admitting he was outsmarted in his loss to John “Doomsday” Howard last month, Todd Chattelle has decided to up the ante in his return to the cage June 15^th at Twin River.

This time, “The Hulk” will face a different level of intelligence when he battles Chandler Holderness – credit analyst by day, mixed martial arts fighter by night.

A graduate of Boston University, Holderness works for Colorado-based Continental Credit, which helps people solve credit inaccuracies and repair their credit scores. The 25-year-old welterweight, who is moving up to 185 pounds to face Chattelle, travels two to three times per month between his hometown of Boulder, Colo., and Boston, where he serves as the company’s regional director.

Book smarts were never a problem for Holderness, who graduated with two degrees and enough credits to enter medical school, and he’s proven to be equally savvy inside the cage with an 8-3 record that includes three knockouts and three submissions.

The key is whether or not he can match Chattelle’s brawn. Confident as ever, Holderness figures to benefit from the tutelage of Howard, who faced Chattelle in April and is Holderness’ main training partner at John Allen’s Wai Kru gym in Boston.

“I feel as though I definitely have him outmatched in every aspect of the game,” said Holderness, who’ll face Chattelle in the three-round main event of “Proving Grounds,” presented by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment & Sports Friday, June 15^th, 2012 at the Twin River Event Center.

“He’s definitely a strong guy with a dangerous right hand, but I really don’t see him matching up with me on the ground or standing up. My reach isn’t as long, but I utilize it better than he does. I plan on keeping my cool and coming here to win.”

Since losing his CES MMA middleweight title to Howard, “The Hulk” is more concerned with evaluating his own performance than worrying about what his opponent brings to the table. The path to improvement starts from within, and Chattelle (10-7, 8 KOs) – a Pawtucket, R.I., native – is working to get back to where he was both physically and mentally prior to the fight against Howard.

“I don’t even think it’s important to win or lose anymore,” Chattelle said. “What’s important for me is to go in there and be myself and fight to the best of my ability.

“Going into that last fight, I’d be up all night thinking, ‘Can I make it to the next level?’ All that worrying didn’t do anything for me. If anything, it took away from my performance. In the middle of the fight, I second-guessed myself because [Howard] was being so calm. I’m thinking, ‘Maybe I should calm down, too,’ because it’s going to be a five-round fight. As soon as I did that, he picked it right back up.”

Howard scored a late takedown in the second round and then finished Chattelle with a flurry of unanswered punches from the mount position in the closing seconds.

“I got away from who I am,” Chattelle said. “I beat myself. I let him outsmart me. I don’t feel like he beat me. The mistakes I made cost me the fight.

“I have to focus on being myself and not worrying about what anyone else thinks.”

Chattelle is back in the gym with his kickboxing instructor, William Soukhamthath, tying up some of the loose ends that plagued him in the loss to Howard – “I won’t say what they are, but they’ve been showing up in sparring and they’ll show up in the fight,” he said – and has a stern warning for Holderness should his opponent try to match him blow for blow.

“He’s pretty good,” Chattelle said, “but if he puts pressure in front of me in the cage, I will smash him.”

While Chattelle has the luxury of training exclusively in his hometown of Pawtucket at TriForce MMA, Holderness spends many hours traveling cross-country for business, which, surprisingly, has helped improve his conditioning and discipline.

“A lot of times, I’m in Colorado training 6,000 feet about sea level,” he said, “so there’s not much I can’t do in a 15-minute time frame where I won’t be operating at my optimum level.”

Holderness began his professional career at the age of 19 while still studying at Boston University. Shortly after his debut – a first-round submission victory over Hector Vasqeuz – Allen invited Holderness to train at Wai Kru, where he met Howard, a veteran of seven Ultimate Fighting Championships (UFC) fights who will return to Rhode Island in August to defend his title.

“He’s given me a lot of insight on Todd,” Holderness said of Howard, “but nothing I can’t see from the videos. He’s been doing this a while. It’s going to be a fun night.”

The idea of taking an extended break before his next fight never crossed Chattelle’s mind. He’s been in the gym since the loss to Howard building toward redemption, and, more importantly, putting last month’s loss behind him.

“I wanted to get right back in there and keep busy,” Chattelle said. “I was upset after that loss, but it helped me a lot because I saw a lot of things that I needed to fix, mentally and physically. The fact is I stood in there and fought a good fight, and now I feel I can do that with anyone at this point.

“Tell the world to be prepared,” he continued. “You won’t see Todd. You’ll see ‘The Hulk.’”

Tickets for “Proving Grounds” are $35.00, $55.00, $100.00 and $125.00 and can be purchased by calling CES at 401.724.2253/2254, online at www.cesmma.com or www.twinriver.com, at the Players Club booth at Twin River, or through any TicketMaster location. Doors open 6 p.m. with the first bout scheduled for 7.

The undercard features a lightweight showdown between Abner Lloveras (8-5-1, 1 KO) of Ludlow, Mass., and Ryan Quinn (6-4, 2 KOs) of Fairfield, Conn.; along with a battle between featherweights Calvin Kattar (12-2, 7 KOs) of Methuen, Mass., and Chris Foster (4-2, 2 KOs) of the Lion’s Den in Middletown, Conn.

Pawtucket bantamweight Andre Soukhamthath (1-1) will face Jon Marchettere (0-2) of Pomfret, Conn.; Joe Pingitore (1-0, 1 KO) of Johnston, R.I., will take on Franklin Isabel (4-4) of Boston; and featherweight Nate Andrews of Cranston, R.I., will make his professional debut against Pedro da Silva (1-3, 1 KO) of Boston. Other bouts include Jay Bakanowski (1-0) of Scituate, Mass., battling undefeated welterweight Leon Davis (2-0) of Springfield, Mass.; Billy Giovanella making his debut against Framingham, Mass., bantamweight Gilvan Santos (1-2); and Nick Drummond (3-0, 1 KO) of Boston facing John Mowry (2-2, 1 KO) of Providence in a welterweight bout. Providence middleweight Brennan Ward (2-0, 1 KO), Pawtucket welterweight Keith Jeffrey (7-2-1) and middleweight Harley Beekman (4-1, 2 KOs) of Amsterdam, N.Y., will also be featured on the undercard in separate three-round bouts.

(Twin River has waived its 18+ rule for “Proving Grounds.” Anybody under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult and must enter through the West entrance).

– CES –

2x Maine State Champion Josh Thornton to Make Amateur MMA Debut at Fight Night III

2012-05-17T17:03:00.002-04:00

Lewiston, Maine (May 17, 2012) – New England Fights! (NEF) is proud to announce that former 2x Maine State Champion and current Plymouth State University wrestler Josh Thornton will make his amateur mixed martial arts debut at Fight Night III on June 16th at The Androscoggin Bank Colisee in Lewiston, Maine.

“We’ve been fortunate to feature a number of former Maine state champions in our fights,” stated NEF co-owner and promoter Nick DiSalvo. “Josh will make a great addition to our roster and we’re honored that he’s chosen NEF as the promotion to make his amateur debut in.”

“I’m really excited and thankful for this opportunity,” stated Thornton. “I feel this is the logical next step for me from wrestling and I can’t wait to get in the cage and test myself.”

Josh Thornton grew-up in Rumford, Maine and wrestled for Mountain Valley High School where he earned back-to-back state titles in 2010 and 2011. After high school, Thornton decided to attend and compete for Plymouth State University in Plymouth, New Hampshire, a Division III wrestling program with a consistent history of producing several top wrestlers-turned-fighters including highly ranked mixed martial artists Nate Lamotte (12-5), Nate Kittredge (10-2) and Rich Moskowitz (10-7). Thornton was a starter for Plymouth State during his freshman season.

“I think being a college wrestler will give me an advantage,” stated Thornton. “Plymouth has produced a lot of great fighters and it’s my hope to continue to represent PSU in that way. I am a hard worker and I want this badly, so I’m going to continue training to make sure that I walk away with a win.”

“I’ve had the pleasure of watching Josh mature from a youth wrestler into a multiple-time high school state champion and now a college athlete,” stated NEF co-owner and matchmaker Matt Peterson. “He’s wrestled his entire life so he has a great base to build on as a mixed martial artist. I’m proud that he’s decided to take his training to the next level and compete in MMA.”

Fight Night III is being headlined by a heavyweight bout between former 5x UFC Heavyweight Champion of the World, Tim “The Mainiac” Sylvia (30-7) and Randy “The Wolf” Smith (14-10-1).

For more information on this event, visit www.NewEnglandFights.com. You can watch NEF videos, including an interview with Tim Sylvia at www.youtube.com/NEFMMA, follow them on twitter @nefights and join the official Facebook group “New England Fights”. Tickets for this event are on sale now at TheColisee.com or by calling The Colisee box office at 207-783-2009.

Ryan Cowette To Make Professional Debut at Fight Night III

2012-05-16T18:23:00.000-04:00

Lewiston, Maine (May 16, 2012) – New England Fights! (NEF) is proud to announce that former number one ranked amateur fighter Ryan Cowette (3-1) is scheduled to make his professional mixed martial arts debut at Fight Night III on June 16th at The Androscoggin Bank Colisee in Lewiston, Maine.

“When Ryan Cowette steps into the NEF cage for the first time on June 16th, he will be breaking new ground in his career by both fighting as a professional for the first time and making his debut in a new weight class,” stated NEF co-owner and matchmaker Matt Peterson. “Ryan has a loyal following in Maine and has promised a hair-raising fight for his hometown fans at a weight where he says he will be faster, more explosive, and ready to go at top speed for three rounds, if necessary. He has a fierce challenge in front of him in Josh Bellows though, so it will be thrilling to see how it all plays out. ”

Ryan Cowette began training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) almost a decade ago. Always on a mission to study under the most skilled instructors, Ryan spent many years in Florida training at Combat Athletix where he was awarded his BJJ Brown Belt from James Smiley, a Black Belt under Edson Diniz from American Top Team (ATT).

After moving back to Maine a few years ago, Cowette, husband and father of six, opened his gym MMAAthletix in Brunswick, Maine and began competing in the New England mixed martial arts circuit. His most recent victory came last May when he battered John English on the feet for three slobberknocking rounds. Cowette, whose amateur fights were all in the 185-pound division, is now slated to drop to 170-pounds to face Josh Bellows (1-0 as an amateur) from Wes Littlefield’s Hardcore Gym. Bellows will also be making his professional debut at Fight Night III.

“Littlfield’s and MMAAthletix are both great schools,” stated NEF co-owner and promoter Nick DiSalvo. “Matt (Peterson) and I are thrilled to have both sides choose our card to host this double pro debut. It’s a real honor.”

“I am excited to get back in the cage,” stated Cowette, who amassed a 3-1 record as an amateur fighting at 185-pounds and was once ranked #1 in the region by Northeastmma.net before dropping in the rankings due to inactivity. “It has been a little over a year since my last fight. Fighting in my home state is going to be great and knowing I have the support of my students drives me to want to have a good performance. I am looking forward to having a successful pro career with NEF.”

Fight Night III is being headlined by a heavyweight bout between former 5x UFC Heavyweight Champion of the World, Tim “The Mainiac” Sylvia (30-7) and Randy “The Wolf” Smith (14-10-1).

For more information on this event, visit www.NewEnglandFights.com. You can watch NEF videos, including an interview with Tim Sylvia at www.youtube.com/NEFMMA, follow them on twitter @nefights and join the official Facebook group “New England Fights”. Tickets for this event are on sale now at TheColisee.com or by calling The Colisee box office at 207-783-2009.

UFC on FUEL TV 3: Korean Zombie vs Poirier

2012-05-15T06:55:00.002-04:00

MAIN CARD (FUEL TV)

Dustin Poirier vs. Chan Sung Jung
Jorge Lopez vs. Amir Sadollah
Donald Cerrone vs. Jeremy Stephens
Jeff Hougland vs. Yves Jabouin
Fabio Maldonado vs. Igor Pokrajac
Tom Lawlor vs. Jason MacDonald

PRELIMINARY CARD (Facebook)

Marcus LeVesseur vs. Cody McKenzie
Brad Tavares vs. Dongi Yang
T.J. Grant vs. Carlo Prater
Rafael Dos Anjos vs. Kamal Shalorus
Jeff Curran vs. Johnny Eduardo
Francisco Rivera vs. Alex Soto

AFO Summer Brawl Update

2012-05-14T20:04:00.001-04:00

Here is the card so far. AFO promises there will be several more fights announced. The card is shaping up to be a good one folks so get your tickets by visiting www.afomma.com or locate your local fighter!

John Johnston (Sityodtong) vs. Conan Manka Heavyweight

Steve Dunn vs. Joe Powers 170lbs

Brandon Fleming vs. Thane Stimson 145lbs

Brandon Newman (TUML) Vs Nick Fontecchio(Connors) Heavyweight

Shane Decristoforo(TUML) Vs Randy Cole (Sity) 125 lbs

Joe Cloutier (Doomsday) Vs Josh Mellon 185 lbs

Alandre Martinez (Wai kru) Vs Ethan Walters 125 lbs

Ruso Khubecov (Connors) Vs Frank Falso (Rukus) 155lbs

Fight Video: Harley Beekman vs. Wilfredo Santiago

2012-05-14T19:36:00.001-04:00

Here is the last fight from Warrior Nation Presents "The Gauntlet." This one is between Harley Beekman and Wilfredo Santiago. This is the last of that show and I expect we will see some of their last show real soon. Can't wait and keep up the good work guys.

Nick Newell XFC 17 Video Log

2012-05-12T05:26:00.000-04:00

Follow along with Nick Newell as he gets ready for his last fight for XFC 17 against Chris Coggins. Will he find another escalator?? Find out and watch the vids. They are split into two parts. Not only is Nick and Jeremy L very talented in MMA they are funny guys as well. I enjoyed seeing how Nick cuts weight and the whole feel of the weigh ins out there. Don't feel bad Nick and company, I am just as bad with geography haha!!

Here is part two

Thanks for sharing with us guys!!

Premier FC 9 Fight Card For May 20th, 2012

2012-05-11T22:06:00.001-04:00

I just received the fight card for the Premier FC 9 show for May 20th, 2012 which is at the Log Cabin in Holyoke MA. This is going to be a mixed show of round 1 of the tournaments and round 2 of the tournaments plus many extra bonus fights. I do want to make note that this show, the doors open at 11am and fights start around 12 in the afternoon on Sunday so keep that in mind! Also the ticket prices have changed a little bit, the $100 Gold front row are now $75 dollars for front row with free food and free drinks, including alcohol. The next tier is $40 bux seated and then there is $30 for standing. You can get your tickets by visiting here. If you know any of the fighters of course get your tickets from them as well. Last but not least, keep in mind this fight card is subject to change as fighters have til Monday to get their medicals in. Please everybody get your medicals in! Also if you are following along with the tournament, there should be two Round One fights in the tournaments in the 145lb and 170lb division and there is only one set so far. Karyn told me that she had some last minute cancellations and the other round ones still may happen and we will let you know later next week. It is still going to be plenty of fights including two female fights and one pro fight!! It is going to be a blast so get your tickets and click the jump below for the full fight card. Stay tuned for next week for the full teaser!

135lb Tournament
Jeremy Reipold(Ravenous)4-1 Shayne Stephenson(Independent) 2-3 Rd 2
Carlos Candelario(Independent) 1-0 vs Adler Jack(Independent) 2-1 Rd 2

145lb Tournament
Leon Campbell(Sityodtong) 3-0 Soap Am(TPS) 2-0 RD2
Jorden Pope (Premier Fight Team)0-0 vs Josten Mclamb (Jiu Jitsu Nation) 0-0 Rd 1

170lb Tournament
Myles Reid(International Martial Arts) 1-0 vs. George Abele(Sityodtong)2-0 Rd 2
Ray Johns(Thunder) 0-1 vs. Chad Valencik(FAA) 0-0 RD1

Extra Bonus Fights
Marvin Maldonado(Team Link)1-2 and Mike Delosreyes (Dexter) 1-5 135lbs
Kemran Lachinov(Link) 5-2 vs. Toby Oden (Jorge Rivera) 3-0 170lbs
Tim Flores(Independent) 1-1 vs Nick Pallini(Independent) 2-2 135lbs
Denise Goddard (Guardian) 0-0 vs Marina Shirfir(Bruno Tostes) 0-0 155lb
Isaiah Gomez(Sityodtong Northshore) 2-1 vs. Josh Smith(Jiu Jitsu Nation) 0-0 160lb
Sarah Payant 0-2 (Gladiator BJJ) vs Christina Houck (Bombsquad)0-0 125lbs
Mike Ingalls(Independent) 1-1 vs Leo Powers(Dexter) 1-1 205lbs
Shane Manley(Bombsquad) 4-1 vs Billy Leischner(Dexter) 1-1 155lbs
Alex Rodriquez(Jiu Jitsu Nation) 0-0 vs. Jonas Benoit(Independent) 1-0 185lbs

Pro
Patrick Early(Factory) 0-1 vs. Terin Swanson(Gladiator BJJ) 1-1 145lbs

Featured Fighter: Leon Campbell

2012-05-10T19:13:00.002-04:00

Name: Leon Campbell
Age: 30
Height: 5'11
Fight Weight: 145lbs
School: Sityodtong
Record: MMA 3-0
City/State Born: Malden, Mass
Achievements: list any kickboxing, Mauy Thai, boxing, nagas, any type of awards.

1. When and Why did you get into MMA??

I am a muay thai fighter through and through.... I transitioned to MMA because I was tired of the rarity of Muay Thai events. Sometimes I would go a year without a fight.

2. Do you have a background in martial arts, boxing , wrestling etc?

When I was younger I dabbled in the typical kids martial arts but never took any of it serious. In my teens I took Caporiera for a couple years and boxed but I always loved traditional Muay Thai. I used to watch Thai movies and fights with my father, along with badass Bruce Lee movies.

3. What's your nickname, how did you get it?

I don't really have a fight name but around the gym I am known as "Negrodamus" from the "Chappelle Show". One night while watching the UFC with my team I called the outcome of every fight that night! But please feel free to give me one if you would like!

4. What are your ultimate goals in the sport?

My goal is to really just travel the world and fight in other countries. I've also wanted to compete in Japan for K-1!

5. What do you think about your next opponent?

Soap Am is my next opponent and I have a huge amount of respect for him. I'm actually a fan of his and find it an honor to compete against him.

6. How do you see the fight going/being finished?

I see the fight being amazing. As far as the finish...with my hand held high.

7. What weight do you walk at/how much do you cut to fight?

I like to walk around 165 lbs at most. I hate big cuts. My girlfriend adjusts my diet accordingly (makes me eat my veggies) so I drop down to 150lbs before I start the actual cut!

8. What's your favorite part about fighting?

My favorite part about fighting is the physical and mental challenge. It also gives me an excuse to wear really short shorts in public!

9. What's the worst part about fighting?

The night before weigh in!

10. Anyone locally or in the big's that you really would love to fight, and why?

I don't really have a hit list but anyone that agrees to fight me.

11. What do you feel is your best weapon in your fights?

My best weapon in my fight is my corner. They are all professionals in every sense of the word. They know what its like in the cage and their knowledge is the biggest asset in my fights. Tied for second is my ability to remain calm and my striking skills!

12. What is your favorite foods that you miss while cutting weight??

I generally eat healthy but I enjoy pizza, burgers, and most importantly CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES (soft bake).

13. What is your most memorable moment to date in MMA??

Seeing my father at my debut and him saying how pround he was of me!

14. How else do you spend your time when you are not training??

Not training?? What is that?? I'm simple...I enjoy spending time with those I love and finding great places to eat!

15. What do you do for a living besides fighting??

Aside from fighting, I work for Anheuser Busch, and at a bar as security and bar back on weekends.

I'd like to take this chance to thank my team (Sityodtong), my family, my girl friend, and the Dellagrotte family. Without any of them, I wouldn't be who and where I am today. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. R.I.P. Kru Eric Armington....

--Thanks Leon for taking the time. Leon is a very humbled fighter and works hard at the sport of mma. As I am sure you have all read he is fighting on May 20th against Team Pradal Serey's Soap Am for Premier FC. Leon is 3-0 and is facing Soap who is 2-0. This is going to be an awesome fight you won't want to miss so get your tickets by clicking here. Now I want to make sure everyone knows that the gold tickets which are front row and all you can eat and drink is now $75 dollars. Also the doors open at 11am and the fights start around 12. Keep checking the site for the full card and my teaser which will be sometime next week! As for a nickname for Leon, I am thinking Leon "Boomstick" Campbell from Evil Dead series and the star is Bruce Campbell. What do you think???

Controversial Fight from Cage Titans Conquer

2012-05-09T17:15:00.000-04:00

Thanks to the person who posted this on youtube of Peter Barrett vs Dan Lopez fight. This is featuring rounds 2 and 3. Let us know what you think.

NEF Press Release--Bangor’s Travis “The Showstopper” Bartlett To Return Home For Heavyweight Debut at Fight Night III

2012-05-09T17:07:00.000-04:00

Tim Sylvia who will faceoff with Randy Smith and Tyler King

Lewiston, Maine (May 9, 2012) – New England Fights! (NEF) is proud to announce a professional heavyweight feature bout between Travis “The Showstopper” Bartlett (8-2) and former NFL football player Tyler King (3-1) at Fight Night III on June 16th at The Androscoggin Bank Colisee in Lewiston, Maine. Fight Night III is being headlined by a heavyweight bout between former 5x UFC Heavyweight Champion of the World, Tim “The Mainiac” Sylvia (30-7) and Randy “The Wolf” Smith (14-10-1).

“This is a big card that keeps getting bigger,” stated NEF co-owner and promoter Nick DiSalvo. “Bringing Travis Bartlett back home to make his heavyweight debut against a giant guy like Tyler King is the perfect compliment to a massive main event in Sylvia-Smith. I don’t think anyone can plan on either of these bouts going to the judges!”

Bangor, Maine native Travis Bartlett began his mixed martial arts (MMA) career in 2007 after completing an impressive amateur boxing career with a record of 77-19 and #6 national ranking to his credit. After entering MMA, he soared to the #1 regional position at light heavyweight by rattling off a number of highlight-reel knockout performances and winning a local title along the way.

After successfully defending his title, Bartlett made the decision to move from Maine to the fight capital of the world, Las Vegas, to pursue his dreams of becoming a full-time fighter. Once established in his new home, Bartlett quickly became a sought-after training partner for some of the greatest fighters of all-time, including Wanderlei “The Axe Murderer” Silva (35-11-1) and current number one contender for the UFC Heavyweight Championship of the World, Frank Mir (16-5). Now, returning to Maine to fight for the first time ever in his home state, Bartlett is looking to make his heavyweight debut against the fifth ranked heavyweight in the Northeast, Tyler King.

“This will be my first fight as a heavyweight and my first fight in Maine,” Bartlett stated. “I’m very excited to fight in my home state and I think Tyler is the perfect opponent to give my Maine fans a super exciting fight!”

Tyler King is no stranger to elite competition. The North Attleboro, Massachusetts native played defensive end at the University of Connecticut where he was named the team’s Defensive MVP in 2004 before moving on to professional football where he spent time with four NFL teams. Standing 6-foot-6, all of King’s wins in MMA have come via first round finish and he feels well prepared to face Bartlett on June 16th.

“When this fight was proposed to me, I jumped at the opportunity,” stated King. “Travis is a well-respected fighter who never has a boring fight. His last fight was an absolute war and knowing what I bring to the table, I expect nothing less than a fight-of-the-year candidate for this bout.”

This will be the second time NEF has held an event at the Colisee this year. This past February, at the inaugural Fight Night event, some 3,200 frenzied fight fans showed up to see the biggest event in Maine mixed martial arts (MMA) history; almost 800 more fans than the crowd that witnessed Muhammad Ali vs. Sonny Liston II in 1965, the most famous fight event ever to take place at the Colisee or in the state of Maine for that matter.

For more information on this event, visit www.NewEnglandFights.com. You can watch NEF videos, including an interview with Tim Sylvia at www.youtube.com/NEFMMA, follow them on twitter @nefights and join the official Facebook group “Fight Night Mixed Martial Arts”. Tickets for this event are on sale now at TheColisee.com or by calling The Colisee box office at 207-783-2009.

About New England Fights!

New England Fights! (“NEF!”) is a Mixed Martial Arts promotions company. NEF!’s mission is to create the highest quality events for Maine’s fighters and fans alike. NEF!’s executive team has extensive experience in combat sports management, events production, media relations, marketing, legal and advertising.