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UFC 160: VELASQUEZ VS. BIGFOOT 2

2013-05-24T06:49:00.000-04:00

Date: May 25, 2013

Location: Las Vegas, Nevada

Venue: MGM Grand Garden Arena

Broadcast: Pay-per-view, FX, Facebook

MAIN CARD (Pay-per-view, 10 p.m. ET)

Cain Velasquez vs. Antonio Silva - for heavyweight title

Junior dos Santos vs. Mark Hunt

James Te Huna vs. Glover Teixeira

T.J. Grant vs. Gray Maynard

Donald Cerrone vs. KJ Noons

PRELIMINARY CARD (FX, 8 p.m. ET)

Mike Pyle vs. Rick Story

Dennis Bermudez vs. Max Holloway

Colton Smith vs. Robert Whittaker

Khabib Nurmagomedov vs. Abel Trujillo

PRELIMINARY CARD (Facebook, 6:35 p.m. ET)

Nah-Shon Burrell vs. Stephen Thompson

Brian Bowles vs. George Roop

Estevan Payan vs. Jeremy Stephens

NEW ENGLAND FIGHTS ANNOUNCES “NATIONS COLLIDE: CANADIAN INVASION”

2013-05-24T06:47:00.000-04:00

[NEF Press Release]

Bangor, Maine (May 23, 2013) – Today New England Fights! (NEF) officially kicked off the mixed martial arts (MMA) promotion’s “Summer Vacationland Fight Tour” event schedule by announcing “Nations Collide: Canadian Invasion” on Friday, July 12th, at the Darling’s Waterfront Pavilion in Bangor, Maine. The show will mark the first of its kind ever to be held in Bangor.

“We’ve combed the northeast of the United States and all of Canada to secure some of the top talent available for this show,” stated NEF promoter and co-owner Nick DiSalvo. “We launched one of our most serious scouting expeditions to date to assemble these fiercely skilled and patriotic athletes that are determined to represent their respective nations with courage, ferocity and honor on July 12th. There’s nothing more American than an outdoor summer show in Maine around the 4th of July – come out and see what all the buzz is about.”

“Since it’s inception, we’ve promised to bring NEF’s brand of MMA to every corner of the state so that every Mainer has the opportunity to experience the world’s fastest-growing and most exciting sport in a live format,” stated NEF matchmaker and co-owner Matt Peterson. “By bringing NEF to Bangor we are once again breaking new ground. We made an early pledge to mixed martial arts fans that we would innovate with every event and July 12th will be no different.”

“Nations Collide: Canadian Invasion” is set to be held at Darling’s Waterfront Pavilion. The open-air amphitheater is constructed each summer inside Waterfront Park in Bangor, Maine. Waterfront Park is a 58-acre public park on the Banks of the historic Penobscot River in the heart of the downtown district.

“Patton said: ‘Americans love to fight, traditionally,’ Peterson stated. “He also said: ‘Americans play to win all of the time.’ Well, I promise you—so too do the Canadian athletes set to descend on Bangor on July 12th. I guarantee there will be a battle of wills when rival nations collide in a primitive full-force clash in the July heat of attack this summer. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind event.”

Tickets are on sale now at www.waterfrontconcerts.com or by calling 800.745.3000. For more information on the event, visit www.NewEnglandFights.com. You can watch NEF videos at www.youtube.com/NEFMMA, follow them on Twitter @nefights and join the official Facebook group “New England Fights.”

About “Nations Collide: Canadian Invasion”

“Nations Collide: Canadian Invasion” is a complete evening of outdoor combat sports entertainment featuring the top professional and amateur athletes from the United States and Canada competing in full-contact mixed martial arts (MMA) cagefighting action. Purchase your tickets today and fly your country’s flag on July 12 in Bangor to support your favorite athlete in the fastest-growing, most thrilling sport in the world! Brought to you by Shipyard Brewing Company and the Maine National Guard: “Always Ready, Always There.”

Premier FC 13 Continued: Bouts 3 and 4

2013-05-21T17:41:00.004-04:00

Today we've got a couple of fights that brought the fans to their feet for sure. I was excited to see Justin Kristie finally make his way back into the cage after his controversial victory last year at Warrior Nation III in April 2012. He's a very exciting fighter and has tremendous heart. Hence the nickname "Cardiac Kid". Ian McEwan is no slouch so here we have two fighters that love to leave it in the cage. Then we've got the fourth bout of the event between two fighters I know well and have tremendous respect for. Mike Tabor and I stepped into the Warrior Nation cage in opposite corners. Although I started out strong it was Mike's calm and collected game that paid big that night. He caught me in an armbar in the 1st round. It was a loss that felt like a win in my book. Glad to have been in there with such a genuine fighter. His opponent in the following video is George Wilson of Gladiator BJJ in West Springfield. George and I have had occasion to roll more than once and I loved seeing him bring my friend and mentor's techniques to life in the cage. Gabriel is the genuine article bringing his Jiu-Jitsu from the place of it's origin to our small community here in Western Mass. It was an honor and a privilege to film his student. Now onto the fights...

CES New Blood June 7th, 2013 Fight Card

2013-05-21T16:48:00.000-04:00

CES's newest installment on June 7th, 2013 is quickly approaching and we were desperate to see the fight card. Pat Sullivan, the matchmaker of CES was kind enough to share it with us to release to you all. As usual, there are some excellent match ups on it. John Howard will be on it against an opponent to be named soon. Greg Rebello will be facing Lewis Rumsey and both fighters are Bellator veterans. Nate Andrews is fighting Jeff Anderson which should be another awesome fight. Soap Am makes his pro debut and he is anxious to use elbows! Get your tickets here and hang tight and we will provide you with the full preview the week of. For the rest of the fight just look below....

John Howard (19-7, UFC veteran) vs. TBA soon

Greg Rebello (15-4, Bellator veteran) vs. Lewis Rumsey (9-8, Bellator veteran)

Pedro Gonzalez (7-5) vs. Sidemar Honario (8-3)

Andre Soukhamthath (4-1) vs. Blair Tugman (5-4, Bellator veteran)

Nate Andrews (4-0) vs. Jeff Anderson (11-7)

Eric Spicely (1-0) vs. Tundee Oduyingho (0-0)

Soap Am (0-0) vs. Carlos Hernandez (1-0)

Joe Reverdes (1-2) vs TBA

Brian Sparrow (0-0) vs. Silvester Murataj (0-1)

Ruben Ortiz (0-0) vs. Kemran Lachinov (0-1)

Premier FC 13: Ammy Bouts 6 and 10

2013-05-20T10:32:00.001-04:00

There were some pretty amazing fights and then there were some crazy fights at PFC 13. Here are two of what we believe to fall into both the amazing and crazy. Ultimately you will have to decide why they deserve those accolades. Great job by these fighters and we thank you for the effort.

Martinez (Underdog BJJ) Vs. Flores (Legal Beatdown Studio)

Lefevre (Tang Muay Thai) Vs. Payant (Gladiator BJJ)
Amateur 125lb Womens MMA Title Match

Victory Combat MMA 5/18/2013 Live Updates

2013-05-18T19:35:00.002-04:00

Keep refreshing this article for the latest updates as they happen....

Michael Castill (Debut) American Top Team, NY vs Alfredo Nunez (Debut) Redline Fight Sports, Boston (155 lbs)

Majority decision Nunez

Dennis Guerrero (debut) American Top Team, NY VS Yeison Berdugo (1-3) Team United Muay Lao, Providence (135 lbs)

Guerrero wins unanimous decision..

Luis Irizarry (2-0 Muay Thai, MMA debut) Team Thunder, Puerto Rico vs Gabriel Ellis Ferarra (1-0)- Redline Fight Sports, Boston (185 lbs)

Gabe Ellis wins rd 3 tko ref stoppage to strikes

Nalton "NJ Mac" MacGlaughlin (2-0 Muay Thai, MMA Debut) American Top Team vs Welly Sanchez (Debut) Redline Fight Sports, Boston (145 lbs)

Welly Sanchez wins unanimous decision.

Sean Nichols (1-0) Sityodtong, Boston vs Joe Pingitore (3-0-1) New England Combat, Providence (150 lbs)

Pingitore wins unanimous.

Brendan "The Badger" Rooney (3-1), C3 Athletics, Stamford, CT vs Lionel Young (6-12) Wai Kru South Shore (155 lbs)

Rooney wins unanimous decision.

Keith Berish (2-0) Black N Blue MMA, Kingston, NY vs Patrick Walsh (3-0) New England Combat, Providence (195 lbs)

Berish wins rd 2 rear naked choke.

Mike Winters (7-2) Bombsquad, Ithaca, NY vs Jon Manley (7-2) Team Link, Ludlow, MA (170 lbs)

Manley wins unanimous decision.

NEF Fight Night VII 5/18/2013 Review

2013-05-18T13:00:00.000-04:00

We arrived right at 4pm and quickly found our seats. The show is packed with NEF fans and the fights are about to start. I will add more to this intro later as the night goes on. I see Occupy the Cage and Kill Their Will banners inside the cage. NEF has a new ring girl Audra and she looks to be getting the hang of it all real quickly. No ring girl bloopers this time folks. Kevin the Ref, Jimmy Bickford and John English are the refs for the evening. John Vena is our host with the most and even was nice to share his fries. I arrived too late and unfortunately was not able to visit the apparel guys to see their new designs so I apologize folks. I didn't see too many local celebs and that was because they all were fighting! I saw John Raio, Frosty, Old School, John Fain, Matt Douglas, NEF celebrity Kristina Sprague and Mr. and Mrs. GWM!

170 Andrew Hughes 4-1 (Team Irish) vs Scott Basci 1-1 (F2 Arena)

They come out swiniging and they fall to the ground. Scott is on top working the guard. Andrew tries to get up but Scott takes his back and is working for a rear naked choke. He has the legs locked and plenty of time to work his arm under the neck. Andrew does a great job at spinning and getting out and Scott takes full mount. Andrew uses the underhook and reverses out on top. He finishes the round on top threatening with a guillotine.

Scott 10-9

Rd 2: They clinch and fall to the ground Andrew uses the cage and is trying to stand up but Scotttakes him right down. Andrew puts the pressure on and ends up in Scott's guard. Scott is fighting for a takedown and Andrew is sprawling nicely. They are back to their feet swinging away. Andrew catches Scott with some good shots and rocks him down. The ref stops the fight.

Andrew Hughes defeats Scott Basci via tko stoppage to strikes in Rd 2.

205 Ramone Saintvil 0-0 (CMBJJ) vs Mike Secord 0-0 (Balanced Ground)

Ramone swings and works for a takedown but is stuffed. Ramone gets in a good right hand. Mike gets in a leg kick. Ramone gets in a leg kick of his own. Ramone catches Mike clean with a right hand and knocks him out cold. The ref stops the fight and Mike gets back up and wobbles and the doctor has him sit back down.

Ramone Saintvil defeats Mike Secord via ko at 1:26 in Rd 1!! What a KO!

170 Joel Adams 0-1 (Team Irish) vs Nelson Blanco 0-0 ( First Coast Full Contact)

They come out and clinch. Joel gets in a knee. Joel gets the takedown and is on top getting in some ground and pound. Nelson bucks him off but Joel jumps right back in the guard. Joel is working the side. Nelson bucks him off again and Joel slams him back down. They are back to their feet. Nelson gets in a good right hand and Joel takes him back down. He is working the guard as the round ends.

Joel 10-9

Rd 2: Joel gets a takedown but is caught in a guillotine. He pulls his head out and is now working the guard. He gets bucked off but Joel dives right back in. Nelson gets a triangle and reverses and is on top full mount but somehow Joel slips out. Nelson gets the takedown and is now on top but Joel is getting some space. Nelson threatens with an armbar but nothing too deep. They are back to their feet and Nelson gets in a big shot as the round ends.

Real close round, I give it to Nelson but could go either way.

Rd 3: Joel starts us off with a right hand that hits. They are swinging away but both very tired. Joel goes for a takedown but they both fall to the ground. Nelson gets on top in full mount and gets in some GNP. Joel spins and Nelson puts on the rear naked choke. He gets the tap.

Nelson Blanco defeats Joel Adams via tapout to Rear Naked Choke at 1:23 in Rd 3.

170 Jarrod Tyler 0-0 (Team Irish) vs Chris Ouellette 0-0 (Havoc)

They are going at it!! Chris misses with a right and Jarrod knocks him down. Jarrod is on top working the guard. He gets in some ground and pound. Chris uses the cage and gets up but Jarrod catches him in a guillotine. He fights out of it and Jarrod takes him down and is now on top in guard. He gets in a few GNP. Chris is staying very active from the bottom. Chris reverses at the end and ends up on top in full mount.

Jarrod 10-9

Rd 2: They clinch and are getting in some big knees. They look dangerously close to the head. They fall to the ground and Jarrod is in the guard. Chris reverses and is on top one again. He does not give up. He ends up getting a rear naked choke but lets go and gets in some ground and pound with a lobster claw for the ref stoppage.

Chris Ouellette defeats Jarrod Tyler via tko stoppage to strikes at 1:43 at Rd 2.

155 Caleb Hall 1-0 (MV Wrestling) vs Corey Hinckley 0-0 (CMBJJ)

Caleb gets the takedown and is working the guard. Caleb is getting in some ground and pound. Not much damage or action is being done until Caleb passes to half mount. He gets in some GNP and Corey is trying to get up and Caleb has the side as the round ends.

Caleb 10-9

Rd 2: Caleb starts us off with a leg kick. Caleb picks up Corey and slams him down. Caleb is working the guard. He gets in some GNP. Corey tries to twist but Caleb is controlling the hips. Caleb moves to the side and then back to guard. Not much action and the round ends.

Caleb 10-9

Rd 3: Caleb takes him down and is working the side. He moves him to the center of the cage and gets a few knees to the body. Corey gets back to his feet and slams Caleb down. Caleb sweeps and is now on top in full mount. He lays down the ground and pound and gets the ref stoppage.

Caleb Hall defeats Corey Hinckley via ref stoppage to strikes at 2:33 in Rd 3.

165 Jeremy Tyler 0-0 (Team Irish) vs Tollison Lewis 2-5 (Balanced Ground MMA)

They go at it and get in some knees. Tollison gets the takedown and they scramble. Jeremy ends up working the side and Tollison is threatening with a guillotine. They turn and Jeremy lets him up. Jeremy is working takedown and gets in slamming fashion. He is caught in a guillotine and gets the tap.

Tollison Lewis defeats Jeremy Tyler via tapout to guillotine at 2:41 in Rd 1.

185 Crowsneck Boutin 2-2 (Independent) vs John Parker 0-1 (Team Kaze)

John gets in a nasty body kick. Crow takes him down and is now in half guard and passes to full mount. Crow takes the side from the scramble and gets in a little GNP. John takes him down and Crow threatens with a guillotine. John gets out and stands up. He gets in a body kick as the round ends.

Crowsneck 10-9

Rd 2: They are going at it. Crow is getting in some big shots. John gets in some body kicks but looks tired or dazed. Crow fights for a takedown but John defends. They are swinging for the fences. What a round!! Crow goes for another takedown but is stuffed one again.

Crow 10-9

Rd 3: John gets in a body kick and Crow tries to take him down. Crow drops his mouth piece and the ref lets him put it back in. They fall to the ground and Crow passes to full mount. John sweeps and and is now on top. Crow fights out of it and they are back to their feet. They are swinging away as the round ends.

Real close round but I give the edge to John 10-9

Crowsneck Boutin defeats John Parker via unanimous decision 29-28. Potential for fight of the night right here!!

195 Jacob Cameron 0-1 (Independent) vs Chris Cobbett 0-0 (CMBJJ)

Chris catches the kick and takes him down. He is working the side. He passes to full mount and lays down some GNP. Jacob weathers the storm and twists and tries to get out. Chris lays down more ground and pound and gets the ref stoppage.

Chris Cobbett defeats Jacob Cameron via ref stoppage to strikes at 2:30 in Rd 1.

170 Andrew Tripp 4-0 (Team Irish) vs Steven Prue 1-0 (F2 Arena)

Andrew tosses him with a slamming takedown like he was a feather. He is working the side. Andrew puts on a slick armbar and rolls him over and gets the tap. He cranks on it more and gets the tap.

Andrew Tripp defeats Steven Prue via tapout to armbar at 1:06 in Rd 1. Andrew improves to 5-0 with that slick armbar.

135 Nick Spencer 2-3 (Choi’s) vs Steve Sobel 2-1 (Young’s MMA)

Nick goes for a takedown and Steve sprawls real well. Nick finishes the takedown and is working the side. Nick stands back up and and then jumps back in. They have some separation and Nick threatens with a heel hook. They scramble and get back to their feet. Steve is fighting for a takedown and gets in a body kick as the round ends.

Nick 10-9

Rd 2: Nick starts us off with a head kick that rocks him out. Steve does get back up quickly but he was definitely flash knocked out.

Nick Spencer defeats Steve Sobel via ko head kick early in Rd 2. My thoughts are Steve looked to have gotten flash knocked out. He did however pop back up and was ready to fight but being in an amateur fight is not that unheard of the ref stopping the fight. If it were pro then they should allow it to go on. Just my 2 cents.

145 Caleb Costello 0-1 (Team Irish) vs Alex Clark 0-0 (CMBJJ)

Alex starts us off with a leg kick. Alex gets in a good combo that hits clean but Caleb keeps coming forward. Alex slams hims down and is working the guard. Alex is bleeding from the nose and is getting in some good combos with Caleb backed up in the corner. Caleb gets hit with a cup shot and the ref gives him time. The fight goes on. Alex gets in a leg kick. Not much action with both fighters being tired.

Alex 10-9

Rd 2: Alex gets in a leg kick that spins Caleb. He hits him with a right hand that sends him to the ground. Alex tries to finish with some ground and pound but can't finish. Caleb sweeps and ends up getting on top in the guard. Not much action and Kevin stands them up.

Real close round but Alex did more damage and got the takedown. Alex 10-9

Rd 3: Alex gets in a leg kick. Both fighters are exhausted and there are like 10 seconds in between each swing. Caleb gets the takedown and is working the side. An occasional body shot here and there but Caleb wins that round.

Caleb 10-9

Alex Clark defeats Caleb Costello via unanimous decision 29-28. Real close fight.

170 Dylan Morrison 0-0 (IABJJ) vs Steve Earland 1-1 (Team Irish)

They clinch and Steve gets the slamming takedown. Dylan goes to get up and gets kneed in the body. Steve is working for the double leg and gets it. Steve is working the side. Not much action but Steve does get in some knees to the back as the round ends.

Steve 10-9

Rd 2: Dylan comes out swinging for the fences wildly. Steve gets in a leg kick. Steve rocks him back and then Dylan walks back to his corner and Steve just rests. Cover him and finish man! Steve gets the takedown and Dylan tries to reverse it Steve picks him up and slams him down again. Steve finishes the round on top with a few solid shots.

Steve 10-9

Rd 3: Steve starts us out with a leg kick. Steve gets the double leg takedown and is working the side. He threatens with a kimura then takes full mount. He finishes off the rest of the round on top with some occasional ground and pound.

Steve 10-9

Steve Earland defeats Dylan Morrison via unanimous decision.

155 Dominic Cofone 2-0 (Balanced Ground) vs Rob Solveson 2-1 (Bombsquad)

They clinch and Dom is working a takedown. Rob reverse and is getting in some good knees. Dom fights a deep guillotine. He gives the thumbs up and Rob says he is out. He pulls out and is now on top. Rob bucks him off and they scramble and Dom takes the back. He is working the rear naked choke from the side. Rob fights it but Dom is relentless and sinks it in.

Dom Cofone defeats Rob Solveson via tapout to rear naked choke at 2:38 in Rd 1. What a fight!!

145 Trevor Kell 2-0 (Team Irish) vs Matt Denning 0-1 (CMBJJ)

Matt starts us out with two leg kicks. Matt continues to fire the leg kicks. Trevor is waiting for the counters and hits with a few. Trevor moves in closer and goes for the takedown but is caught in a guillotine. He taps real fast to it, it was deep.

Matt Denning defeats Trevor Kell via tapout to guillotine at 2:04 in Rd 1.

265 Kevin Smith 0-1 (Young’s MMA) vs Jordan Dickens 0-1 (Judokai kan JuJutsu)

Kevin takes him down and right to full mount. He finishes him off with some ground and pound.

Kevin Smith defeats Jordan Dickens via ref stoppage to strikes at 38 seconds in rd 1

140 Cody Sargent 1-3 (Balanced Ground MMA) vs Erik Nelson 0-1 (CMBJJ)

They clinch and go to the ground. Cody is working the side and then to half guard. He gets in a few shots. Erik threatens with a knee bar but Cody gets out. He is on top and gets bucked off. Erik goes for a takedown and Cody sprawls. They go to the ground and Erik threatens with a knee bar but nothing serious. Erik shoots for another takedown but is stuffed again and Cody finishes strong with a few punches.

Cody 10-9

Rd 2: Cody hits with a leg kick and Erik clinches him up against the cage. Erik gets the takedown and is working the side. Cody almost flips him over but Erik pushes him right back down. Erik takes the back and sinks in the rear naked choke with a body triangle.

Erik Nelson defeats Cody Sargent via tapout to rear naked choke at 1:20 in Rd 2.

170 Adam Nielsen 0-0 (Team Irish) vs Art Belgrade 1-1 (First Coast Full Contact)

Art catches the leg kick and takes him down. Adam postures up and tries to posture up. Art threatens with two heel hooks but Adam pushes through them. Adam is now on top in guard. He postures up and gets in some ground and pound as the round ends.

Real close round but I gotta give the round to Adam, he was on top most of the round even if he was in a heel hook.

Rd 2: Art goes right for the takedown and gets it. Adam moves right to half and postures up. He takes full mount and finishes him off with some ground and pound with Art on his back.

Adam Nielsen defeats Art Belgrade via ref stoppage to strikes at 43 in Rd 2.

135 Trevor Hebert 0-0 (Frosty’s First Class Fight Team) vs Mike Brown 0-0 (DWMMA/TPS)

Mike eats a punch and gets the takedown. Trevor is in a rear naked choke but pulls out and ends up on top. Mike gets in a slick armbar for the tap.

Mike Brown defeats Trevor Hebert via tapout to armbar at 48 in Rd 1.

125 Stephen Desjardins 1-2 (Team Irish) vs Connor Murphy 1-0 (CMBJJ)

Connor goes right for the takedown. Stephen is right back up and takes him down with a guillotine. Connor is fighting it and pulls out. Right back to their feet and Stephen slams Connnor down. They are right back to their feet. Stephen catches a leg and takes him down. They sprawl and Stephen goes for an armbar but can't get it. Connor finishes up on top as the round ends.

Real close round and could go either way. I give it to Stephen for the submission.

Rd 2: Connor goes for a takedown and Stephen sprawls. He ends up rolling on top and taking the back. He sinks in the rear naked choke and gets the tap.

Stephen Desjardins defeats Connor Murphy via tapout to rear naked choke at 1:00 in Rd 2.

175 Kent Smallwood 0-0 (Team Irish) vs Brandon Traknis 0-0 (Independent)

Kent gets in leg kick to start us off. They are going at it and Brandon is eating some big shots. He gets in a good shot to the center of the chest. They clinch and Kent gets him in a guillotine. Brandon defends it and they break. Kent hits him with a good right hand that sends Brandon down. Kent goes to the side and finishes off with some ground and pound for the ref stoppage.

Kent Smallwood dfeats Brandon Traknis via ref stoppage to strikes at 2:41 in Rd 1.

185 Buck Pineau 5-2 (Choi’s) vs Allan Josselyn 3-2 (Team Kaze)

Buck starts us off with a head kick but it doesn't hit flush. Buck throws Allan down but Allan gets right back up. Buck jumped guard with guillotine and Allan is now in guard. Buck is spinning and Allan is working for a rear naked but Buck spins through it. Buck is now on top in guard as the round ends.

Real close round, I give it to Buck 10-9

Rd 2: Buck takes him down and is now on top in full mount. Allan bucks him off and gets out. They are back to their feet. Buck is getting in some good knees to the body. Allan jumps guard and takes him down. Buck is working the guard and switches to north south then back to the side.

Buck 10-9

Rd 3: Allan jumps guard again with guillotine. Bucks pulls out and is now working the side. He is getting in some ground and pound here and there. Allan bucks him off and Buck lets him stand. Buck takes him down and finishes the round on top.

Buck 10-9

Buck Pineau defeats Allan Josselyn via unanimous decision 30-27.

125 Tommy Balzano 0-1 (Team Irish) vs Jimmy Alexander 0-4 (F2 Arena)

Both fighters are feeling each other out for a bit. Then all of a sudden they are swinging away. There was a low blow from Jimmy and Tommy takes a few minutes. They clinch and Tommy gets in a knee to the head that drops him. He finishes it off and Jimmy taps to strikes.

Tommy Balzano defeats Jimmy Alexander via tapout to strikes at 2:10 in Rd 1.

125 Ernesto Ornelas 1-2 (Choi’s) vs Matt Almy 0-0 (Bombsquad)

Ernesto stuns Matt with a right hand. He bounces back up and they fall back to the ground. Matt gets a nasty heel hook and Ornelas taps right away.

Matt Almy defeats Ernersto Ornelas via tapout to heel hook early in rd 1.

155 Jesse Erickson 0-1 (CMBJJ) vs Josh Parker 4-5 (Independent)

Jesse starts us out with a leg kick. Josh goes for the takedown and gets it. Jesse gets hit with a few shots but works an armbar and gets the quick tap.

Jesse Erickson defeats Josh Parker at 51 in Rd 1. Congrats to Jesse on his first pro win and he didn't even bleed!!

155 Jon Lemke 2-0 (Team Irish) vs George Reagan 2-1 (First Coast Full Contact)

George gets in a leg kick. Jon gets a takedown and is getting in some ground and pound. Jon is working the side. George is defending well and moves Jon back to guard. They are twisted and not much action for a bit. Jon eventually gets out and is now on top in guard. They get back to their feet right as the round ends.

Jon 10-9

Rd 2: Jon is stalking and working his jabs. Jon backs him up into a corner and rocks him with a right hand that buckles him and he gets back to his feet. He gets hit again and drops and this time he is done. Jon gets in one more shot as the ref stops it.

Jon Lemke defeats George Reagan via ref stoppage at 2:05 in Rd 2. Jon looks better and better each fight.

145 Ray Wood 2-0 (Young’s MMA) vs Ahsan Abdullah 3-2 (Bombsquad)

Ray starts us off with a leg kick. Ray is getting in some quick fast leg kicks. Ahsan takes him down with a double leg and is working the guard. Not much action and the ref stands them up. Ahsan gets another takedown. Ray threatens with an armbar but nothing too serious. Ahsan is right back on top in guard. Ray gets some separation but can't put together an armbar due to Ahsan recognizing it.

Ahsan 10-9

Rd 2: Ahsan gets the takedown again. Ahsan is controlling him on the ground but not getting in much ground and pound. Ray tries to buck him off and stand up but Ahsan takes him down again. Ray pulls a sweet armbar and gets the tap.

Ray Wood defeats Ahsan Abdullah via tapout to armbar at 2:30 in Rd 2. Way to come from behind with the armbar sub Ray!!!

175 Jarod Lawton 2-1 (AIBJJ) vs Cody Anderson 1-1 (Team Triumph)

Cody slams Jarod down. Jarod is working an armbar from the bottom. Cody slams him down and gets out. Jarod is trying for a triangle and Cody slams Jarod hard. Cody is getting in some ground and pound here and there. They are getting back to their feet and Jarod threatens with a kimura. Cody is working his way up and clearly gets kneed in the head while he was down and ref doesn't say anything. They are back standing and Cody gets in some jabs. They are clinched as the round ends.

Cody 10-9

Rd 2: Cody takes Jarod down. Jarod is threatening with a kimura again and Cody is dropping bombs in the ground and pound. Cody backs off and lets him up. Cody takes him down again. Jarod threatens with an armbar but Cody recognizes and gets out. He backs off and gets hit in the cup. Cody fights for a takedown but they both fall I believe. Cody is in the guard getting in some ground and pound. He gets bucked off and steps back right as the round ends.

Cody 10-9

Rd 3: They are going at it. Cody gets in a good right hand and Jarod is bleeding from the nose. Cody takes him down and is in the guard. He is getting in some ground and pound. Jared sets up an armbar and even before Cody slams him he has the triangle locked. He releases the armbar and gets the triangle tap.

Jarod Lawton defeats Cody Anderson via tapout to triangle with 3 minutes in Rd 3. Jarod was definitely losing that fight and pulled out the slick submission. What a fight!!

155 Henry Martinez 9-5 (Team Irish) vs Dez Green 8-1 (Bombsquad) [LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE]

Dez takes him down and recognizes Henry's submission attempt and stands back up. Dez tries for a takedown but is stuffed. Both fighters are working their jabs. Henry gets in a leg kick. Dez gets in a combo. Dez gets in a body kick. Henry went for a takedown and Dez uses his finesse lands right on his feet.

Dez 10-9

Rd 2: Henry starts us off with an inside leg kick. Henry is bleeding from the nose and it looks broken. Dez keeps rocking him with some solid jabs. He hits him with a good one that sends him back. Dez fires five straight knees to the head and Kevin the Ref has seen enough.

Dez Green defeats Henry Martinez via ref stoppage to knees to the head at 1:50 in Rd 2. This fight was awesome!! Dez improves to 9-1 and wins the Lightweight belt!

265 Travis Bartlett 8-3 (Syndicate) vs Tyler King 6-1 (Connors) [HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE]

They clinch and Tyler is getting in some knees to the clinch. Tyler gets the takedown and is on top in half guard. Tyler is controlling the fight on the ground. Tyler works the head and arm choke and gets the tap.

Tyler King defeats Travis Bartlett via tapout to arm triangle in Rd 1. Tyler King improves to 7-1 and wins the heavyweight title!!

170 Marcus Davis 21-9 (Team Irish) vs Darrius Heyliger 4-1-1 (Bombsquad)

Marcus starts us off with a leg kick. Darrius gets in a high kick. Marcus gets a combo and clinches Darrius up against the cage. Darrius reverses. Marcus reverses and gets in the underhooks. He takes him down and Darrius gets right back up. Marcus misses with a combo. Marcus hits with looping left. Marcus gets in a combo and clinches. Darrius reverses and Marcus reverses and stays there as the round ends.

Marcus 10-9

Rd 2: Both fighters fire leg kicks. Marcus gets in a combo and clinches. Marcus gets in a leg kick. Marcus is bleeding over the right eye. Darrius is getting in some good leg kicks. Marcus gets in a combo. Marcus is clinching up against the cage. Darrius reverses and Marcus reverses right back. Marcus gets in a combo. Marcus eats a kick and counters with the right. Marcus is clinching as the round ends.

Marcus 10-9

Rd 3: Marcus closes the gap and clinches. Darrius reverses and gets in an elbow. Marcus is fighting for a takedown but Darrius defends well. Marcus is pushing the pace and working his combos. Darrius gets in his kicks too. Darrius gets in a good jab. Darrius pushes Marcus up against the cage. Marcus punches his way out. Marcus gets in a combo and Darrius gets in a high left kick.

Marcus 10-9

Marcus Davis defeats Darrius Heyliger via unanimous decision. I really wish this fight was five rounds!!

Awards:

Fight of the Night: Dez Green against Henry Martinez. What a battle and ended not how I was expecting. There were really many great fights to choose from.
Submission of the Night: Jarod Lawton triangle over Cody Anderson. Definitely could have been FOTN.
KO of the Night: Ramone Saintvil defeats Mike Secord. I am sure Mike is a little foggy on this but he actually stood up and walked to the center all wobbly and finally the doctor ran in to check him.
Blunder of the Night: Everything went real smooth and honestly nothing really stands out to be a blunder.

Rereading through my review I realized something. Wow. There were so many fights and so many moments to talk about. There are times when I have a hard time trying to think which one was SUB or KO of the night. The night was about 7 hours of fights and they went fairly quickly with 30 total. If I was going to be honest I have to say 30 is too many but really it isn't up to me. It is up to NEF and the NEF fans to decide. I do know that NEF listens to their fans in so many ways and they are always looking for ways to better their shows and provide the best experience. I noticed when the packed arena was pitch dark, I saw NEF lights circling around. I have never seen those lights at a promotion before. I don't think there was a single fan leaving the Colisee not happy with what they saw. We all got to witness Marcus Davis in his hometown get the victory and was a very hard fought fight. Darrius did very well in that fight and held his own. He had no marks/blemishes on his face and could go 2 more rounds if he needed. I would like to thank NEF and all the fighters for putting on the show and allowing us to watch/write and capture the action. It was one of the best shows I have been to.

PremierFC 13: Ammy Bouts 1 and 2

2013-05-17T21:58:00.000-04:00

Are you ready to relive the action from April 28th, 2013?

Well here you go. Our first two ammy bouts are ready for your enjoyment.

Big thanks to my new editor for getting knees deep over the last week and helping me put together the best PFC videos I've filmed yet. Thanks to PremierFC and The Holyoke Blue Sox for allowing my ragtag crew from Frontier Community Access Television to be the ones above the cage capturing all this action. My biggest thanks go out to the fighters who I feel are the only reason to watch these fights. Their dedication to a grueling sport is inspiring and intense. Enjoy...

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Team Irish Takes Performance To The Next Level

2013-05-17T16:58:00.000-04:00

[NEF Press Release]

Lewiston, Maine (May 17, 2013) – The Team Irish Takeover of NEF VII has been well documented leading up to Saturday’s seminal event for Marcus Davis’ fight team and New England Fights! (NEF), Maine’s mixed martial arts promotion. Davis has promised a showcase performance from his students who train between schools located in Brewer and Westbrook, Maine. The latest addition to the Team Irish dynasty, the Team Irish Performance Training Center (PTC), could be a key to the team’s predicted success on Saturday.

Davis’ Team Irish division based out of Southern Maine was initially established in 2007. The school first opened in Biddeford and has experienced significant growth over the years, most recently opening a state-of-the-art, multi-leveled fitness facility, the Team Irish PTC, located in Westbrook, just over the Portland border. Boasting over 2000 square feet of mat space, cage panels, bags, and a turfed area designated for athletic performance and weight training—the Team Irish PTC aims to deliver a multidimensional approach to mixed martial arts and fitness training. “We have both male and female locker rooms on the first floor, as well as plenty of equipment--both male and female--for all of our classes,” stated Team Irish PTC General Manager Trevor Kell. “Upstairs we have our cardio, core stretching room – with our lounge in the room next to it. On the other side, Serenity Meditation & Yoga is headquartered which can be offered at special prices for all Team Irish PTC members.

“The Team Irish Performance Training Center is a non-profit that was established to provide members of the community with a state of the art Health & Fitness training facility,” Kell continued. “Our mission is to promote the personal growth and development of our members by providing experienced professional instructors and personal trainers, and implementing industry leading training techniques and technologies.”

The Team Irish PTC will be featuring four fighters on Saturday’s card, including Kell himself, who is undefeated at 2-0; undefeated welterweight prospect Andrew Tripp (4-0); Tommy Balzano (0-1), who will be dropping down a weight class to make his professional debut at flyweight; and lightweight title contender and Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) veteran Henry Martinez (9-3). “[We are] a highly disciplined team coming out of what might possibly have been our best training camp yet, ready to win, ready to make a statement,” stated Kell. “Hard work, hard training camps, day-in day-out—it’s what makes the difference. We couldn’t be more excited. [May 18] will be a great day for Team Irish.”

Despite an elite group of core trainers that features Davis, Martinez, Brazilian Jiu-jitsu (BJJ) black belt Kris Kramer and Nate Libby, the Team Irish PTC aims to be a workout and fitness destination for athletes of all levels—not just accomplished and aspiring mixed martial artists. “We strive to offer a safe, friendly and non-intimidating environment where members of all fitness and skill levels can receive fitness and martial arts education and instruction, stated Kell. “We also offer our kids grappling class absolutely free to the public and we offer a women's bag fitness program that includes 12 classes a month for only $10 a month… Since we are a non-profit organization, we keep all expenses as minimal as possible for our members. Memberships starting at just $10.00 a month, and $50.00 a month for Unlimited Classes and full use of the facility during any hours of operation.”

To learn more about the Team Irish Performance Training Center visit www.TeamIrishPTC.com and find them on social media @teamirishptc and www.facebook.com/teamirishptc.

At the time of this writing, the fight card for May 18 in Lewiston consisted of more than thirty fights. The main event will feature Marcus Davis (21-9) taking on Darrius Heyliger (4-1) in a welterweight showdown. The co-main event will see UFC veteran Henry Martinez (9-5) squaring off with Dez Green (8-1) for the Maine State Lightweight Title. In another title fight, Travis Bartlett (8-3) meets former NFL player Tyler King (6-1) for the Maine State Heavyweight Championship. Tickets start at just $25 and are on sale now at www.TheColisee.comor by calling The Colisee box office at 207.783.2009 x 525. For more information on the event, visit www.NewEnglandFights.com. You can watch NEF videos at www.youtube.com/NEFMMA, follow them on Twitter @nefights and join the official Facebook group “New England Fights.”

Current fight card for Reality Fighting at Mohegan Sun Arena on June 8th

2013-05-17T12:45:00.001-04:00

Here we go with less than a month to go the card has been confirmed, checked, and re-checked thanks to our friend and Reality Fighting's Match-maker, Joe Cuff. While he's been busy traveling the world with NAGA and keeping the Reality Fight machine running at full blast for 2013 we've been busy getting ready for the next event. City Boy will break these fights down in detail with a teaser very soon. However, I will say this. I will be representing a small group of dedicated mixed martial artists training out of my personal gym, RavenousMMA, in Greenfield, MA. My opponent is fighting for the promoter's own training center, Kipp's Basement. Jeremy Reipold, founder and co-owner of Team Ravenous and WesternMassMMA.com has been my teacher, coach, and teammate since I took this sport up in 2008. I feel it's important to let people know that our training is a very informal affair, but don't let that trick you into thinking it isn't powerful instruction. Jeremy is a veteran amateur fighter who's fought all styles of fighters in several age groups and training backgrounds. He's been given multiple title shots locally and through these experiences has brought back a wealth of knowledge he shares freely with me and our students. I am sure it is a great thing to have masters in a specific martial art or combative technique impart serious lessons to you and that having a host of regular well matched (weight and experience level) training partners makes you a capable competitor, but I've learned to adapt through a certain lack of having. My style is to have no style. My plan is to see my opponent coming and to assess the situation as it's happening. It's a skill much like the formal training's of Karate, Judo, or Boxing that give you the skills to kick, throw, and strike instinctively and perhaps it's the key to my success as a man more than a fighter. As I learn about my life and chosen path I can see how allowing my direction to stem from what's before me in the moment brings me to where I want to be. With an active training camp in progress my physical and mental condition are being well maintained. My team is participating as much as possible and many of the great members of our community are stepping in at just the right time keeping me on my toes and reminding me to keep my eyes wide open. One thing is for certain, on June 8th in the middle of a packed Mohegan Sun Arena I will be at my peak and I will be aware. ~The Artist

NEF Fight Night VII 5/18/2013 Teaser

2013-05-16T08:40:00.003-04:00

New England Fights is back this Saturday with their 7th Fight Night show on May 18th, 2013. It is their biggest card to date with 31 fights if I can still count correctly. The card has 9 pro fights with some real big names on it including Marcus Davis. The show will take place in Lewiston Maine and tickets are still on sale here starting at just $25. One thing I would like to point out is the doors open at 3pm and the first fight should start around 4pm so please plan accordingly. As long as traffic is good we should be there in time to talk about all the action. Nick DiSalvo and Matt Peterson have put together an epic card and I got a good feeling the Maine-iacs are all going to come out in full force. Let me break down the card for you....Keep in mind this will not be the final fight order.

265 Kevin Smith 0-1 (Young’s MMA) vs Jordan Dickens 0-1 (Judokai kan Jui Jitsu)

Kevin Smith takes on Jordan Dickens for a heavyweight bout. Kevin trains with Young's MMA and comes into this battle with an 0-1 record. I apologize but I wasn't able to find any info on Kevin but I can assure you being from Young's MMA, he will be ready. Jordan trains with Judokai kan Jui Jitsu and comes into this fight also with an 0-1 record. I was not able to find any of the previous fight info on Jordan either. I sure hope this isn't a common theme for the rest of the teaser :)

205 Ramone Saintvil 0-0 (CMBJJ) vs Mike Secord 0-0 (Balanced Ground)

At 205 lbs Ramone Saintvil takes on Mike Secord. Ramone trains with CMBJJ and will be making his amateur debut. Mike trains with Balanced Ground and also will be making his amateur debut. I love it when two amateurs are ready to display their raw unseen talent to the fans. You just never know what to expect.

195 Jacob Cameron 0-1 (Independent) vs Chris Cobbett 0-0 (CMBJJ)

At 195 lbs Jacob Cameron takes on Chris Cobbett. Jacob is an independent fighter with an 0-1 record. He fought Cheyenne Vasquez at Combat Zone and lost with a tko in just 21 seconds. He informed me that he is ready and will make it past 21 seconds this time! Chris trains out of CMBJJ and will be making his amateur debut. He will be looking to get a quick finish on Jacob.

185 Crowsneck Boutin 2-2 (Independent) vs John Parker 0-1 (Team Kaze)

At 185 lbs Crowsneck Boutin takes on John Parker. Crowsneck comes into this fight with a 2-2 record and is an independent fighter. He started out losing his first two fights but has made a full 180 and won his last two fights by way of fist. His opponent John trains with team Kaze and comes into this fight with an 0-1 record. He lost his first bout to Tim Fields via split decision. This is going to be a battle right here let me tell you. Both fighters like to stand and bang and this one is a potential for fight of the night!

185 Buck Pineau 5-2 (Choi’s) vs Allan Josselyn 3-2 (Team Kaze)

Next up is Buck Pineau against Allan Josselyn at 185lbs. Buck comes into this bout with a 5-2 record and trains out of Choi's. Buck has 3 submission victories and is fresh off a very tough fight against Mike Rodriguez where he won with a guillotine for the CFX title. He lost one to submission and his other loss to none other than Allan Josselyn which I will talk about in a minute. Allan trains with team Kaze and has a 3-2 record. Allan is one tough SOB and he always puts on great fights. His last fight he lost to Isiah Queen to submission in rd 3. He has two decision victories and one ko victory. Now this is a rematch that happened at Fight Night IV in which Buck caught Allan with a head kick in rd 1 and Allan weathered the storm and won the decision. Both fighters are from two good teams and no doubt will be ready and perhaps with a slight different game plan. Allan is out to prove the first fight was no fluke and for Buck it is about redemption.

175 Kent Smallwood 0-0 (Team Irish) vs Brandon Traknis 0-0 (Independent)

Then NEF has Kent Smallwood against Brandon Traknis at 175lbs. Kent is one of the many fighters from Team Irish on the card and will be making his amateur debut. Brandon is an independent fighter and will also be making his amateur debut. With both fighters being new to the cage I can't give too much insight but I will say Kent will be ready so I hope Brandon is too.

170 Joel Adams 0-2 (Team Irish) vs Nelson Blanco 0-0 ( First Coast Full Contact)

Joel Adams takes on Nelson Blanco at 170lbs. Joel is from Team Irish and has an 0-2 record. He lost two fights to submissions. Nelson trains out of First Coast Full Contact and will be making his amateur debut. Joel Adams hasn't fought since March of 2012 so we will have to see if cage rust is a factor in this fight. Then again on the flip side Nelson has never been in the cage.

170 Adam Nielsen 0-0 (Team Irish) vs Art Belgrade 1-1 (First Coast Full Contact)

Adam Nielsen takes on Art Belgrade at 170lbs. Adam is from Team Irish and will be making his amateur debut. Art is from First Coast Full Contact and has a 1-1 record. I was not able to find much info from Art but I think he is from Florida. We will have to wait to see how this one pans out.

170 Andrew Hughes 4-1 (Team Irish) vs Scott Basci 1-1 (F2 Arena)

At 170lbs Andrew Hughes will fight Scott Basci. Andrew comes into this fight with a 4-1 record and is from Team Irish. See I told you there were many fighters from Team Irish on this card! He has one decision and 3 submission victories in his career. His one loss was to Mike Drohan at a CFX to decision. His opponent Scott trains with F2 Arena and has a 1-1 record. He has one submission victory and one loss to tko ref stoppage. I see this fight being a ground battle and most likely one of them will be winning via submission.

170 Andrew Tripp 4-0 (Team Irish) vs Steven Prue 1-1 (F2 Arena)

Next up is Andrew Tripp and Steven Prue at 170lbs. Andrew trains with team Irish and has a 4-0 record. He has 3 subs and one decision victory in his career. He will be looking to keep his undefeated record intact. His opponent Steven has a 1-1 and trains with F2 Arena. F2 Arena is the crew that comes up from Florida. They aren't making the trip to lose and that is for sure. He has won one fight via submission and lost one via submission. Again I see this fight being a ground battle and most likely ending by submission.

170 Jarrod Tyler 0-0 (Team Irish) vs Chris Ouellette 0-0 (Havoc)

At 170lbs Jarrod Tyler takes on Chris Ouellette. Jarrod trains with Team Irish and will be making his amateur debut. Chris is also making his amateur debut and trains with team Havoc. Two fighters who have never been in the cage before so who can predict what will happen. We will find out this Saturday!

170 Dylan Morrison 0-0 (IABJJ) vs Steve Earland 1-1 (Team Irish)

Dylan Morrison will be facing off in the cage against Steve Earland at 170lbs. Dylan trains with IABJJ and will be making his amateur debut. Steve trains with Team Irish and has a 1-1 record. I couldn't find all of his info but he did lose to Brian Sparrows via submission at a CFX show. Dylan is giving up some experience in the cage on this match up so we will have to see if that will be a factor on Saturday evening.

165 Jeremy Tyler 0-0 (Team Irish) vs Tollison Lewis 2-5 (Balanced Ground MMA)

Jeremy Tyler will fight Tollison Lewis at 165lbs. Jeremy is from Team Irish and will be making his amateur debut. Tollison trains with BGMMA and has a 2-5 record. Tollison's record may not show it but he has fought some beasts and always gives 110% in the cage. Now looking at the records Jeremy is giving up some major difference in records on taking this fight but being from Team Irish I know he will be ready. Tollison is always ready to scrap and I expect this to be a good one folks.

155 Dominic Cofone 2-0 (Balanced Ground) vs Rob Solveson 1-2 (Bombsquad)

At 155lbs Dom Cofone takes on Rob Solveson. Dom quickly became 2-0 and is out of Balanced Ground. He has a submission and a decision victory in his career. Now when I say quickly he won two fights in 16 days. He has taken a few months off and is now ready to step in the cage. He is a good wrestler and had some good slams when I saw him for his first win. Rob is 1-2 and from Bombsquad. He won't be coming up from New York for a loss. His two losses came from Andrew Tripp and Josh Mayville from submissions. His sole win was also from submission. This is a good match up and challenge for both fighters and I see this one being a ground battle.

155 Caleb Hall 1-0 (MV Wrestling) vs Corey Hinckley 0-0 (CMBJJ)

Caleb Hall will face off in the cage against Corey Hinckley. Caleb trains with MV Wrestling and has a 1-0 record. Caleb got his first win against John Parker via submission in just 51 seconds of round 1. He will be looking for the quick sub once again. Corey trains with CMBJJ and he will be making his amateur debut. CMBJJ has some great fighters and coaches so I am sure he will be ready. I am sure this will be another ground battle.

145 Trevor Kell 2-0 (Team Irish) vs Matt Denning 0-1 (CMBJJ)

Trevor Kell faces off against Matt Denning at 145lbs. Trevor trains out of Team Irish and has a 2-0 record. He has a ref stoppage and a decision in his career. Matt trains with CMBJJ and has an 0-1 record. He has a decision loss to Dom Cofone in his career and is hungry for his first amateur victory. I talked with him a month ago and I know he has been training hard so he will be ready. Now one thing that could be a factor is Trevor hasn't fought since 2011 for some reason or another.

145 Caleb Costello 0-1 (Team Irish) vs Alex Clark 0-0 (CMBJJ)

Caleb Costello takes on Alex Clark at 145lbs. Caleb trains with Team Irish and has an 0-1 record. His only fight he lost to Ken Kersch via decision. Alex is out of CMBJJ and will be making his amateur debut. Caleb has proven he can go the distance and this one may go to a decision as well. I can't wait to see how this one turns out.

140 Cody Sargent 1-3 (Balanced Ground MMA) vs Erik Nelson 0-1 (CMBJJ)

At a catchweight of 140 lbs Cody Sargent takes on Erik Nelson. Cody has a 1-3 record and fights out of BGMMA. Cody last fought against Jordan Pope and had a real good battle with him. He was winning the fight and Jordan used his jiu jitsu and subbed him with a deep triangle in rd 2. Cody has proven he can go the distance and can sub his opponent too. Erik trains with CMBJJ and has an 0-1 record. His only fight he lost to John Raio via decision. I see this fight being a close battle and going to decision.

130 Trevor Hebert 0-0 (Frosty’s First Class Fight Team) vs Mike Brown 0-0 (DWMMA/TPS)

Next up is Trevor Hebert against Mike Brown at 130 lbs. Trevor is out of Frosty's new gym Frosty's First Class Fight Team and will be making his amateur debut. Mike is from DWMMA/TPS and will be making his amateur debut as well. Two new fighters making their debut so who knows what will happen. We will find out this Saturday.

135 Nick Spencer 2-3 (Choi’s) vs Steve Sobel 2-1 (Young’s MMA)

Nick Spencer takes on Steve Sobel at 135lbs. Nick is out of Choi's school and has a 2-3 record. He lost two fights to decision and one to submission. He won one fight via submission and the other ref stoppage to strikes. Steve used to be an independent fighter and is now with Young's MMA. He is looking better and better ever fight. His last one he dominated all 3 rounds James Dougherty and no doubt he will be looking to grind out another victory. If Nick can stand his ground and avoid the takedown I think he got a chance. If not it could be a long fight for him on his back.

***133 Maria Rios 3-0 (The Academy) vs Janice Meyer 1-0 (Power of One)**Cancelled

125 Norman Fox 0-0 (MMA Athletix) vs John Parker 0-2 (Team Nitemare)

Next up is Norman Fox against John Parker at 125lbs. Norman is from MMA Athletix and will be making his ammy debut. John is from Team Nitemare and comes into this fight with a 0-2 record. He has two losses, both of them to submissions. He will be hungry for his first ammy mma win. I love to watch the 125lbers go at it because they are so fast and agile.

125 Stephen Desjardins 1-2 (Team Irish) vs Connor Murphy 1-0 (CMBJJ)

For the last amateur fight of the evening is between Stephen Desjardins and Connor Murphy. Stephen has a 1-2 record and is from Team Irish. He lost one to submission and one to decision. His sole victory came via decision. Connor trains with CMBJJ and has a 1-0 record. He last fought John Parker and won with submission to strikes in rd 1. He put on a dominating performance and showed some excellent wrestling. This should be a good challenge for him and I think this will be a good battle. Now onto the pro fights.

----------------------------------Professional Fights-----------------------------------------
125 Ernesto Ornelas 1-2 (Choi’s) vs Matt Almy 0-0 (Bombsquad)

For the first pro fight, Ernesto Ornelas takes on Matt Almy. Ernesto is from Choi's and comes into this fight with a 1-2 record. He lost his first two bouts via submissions but bounced back with a nice win against Jimmy Alexander at Combat Zone. His opponent Matt is from Bombsquad and will be making his pro debut. He had a good amateur career and was 2-2 I believe. He had a decision and a guillotine victory and will be hungry for a taste of his first pro victory. This is going to be a good battle at 125lbs and should kick off the pro fights nicely.

125 Tommy Balzano 0-1 (Team Irish) vs Jimmy Alexander 0-4 (F2 Arena)

Next up at 125lbs Tommy Balzano takes on Jimmy Alexander. Tommy trains with Team Irish and has an 0-1 record. I wasn't able to find the pro fight on Tommy in the databases. Looks like he has a 1-3 amateur career. His opponent Jimmy trains with F2 Arena and has an 0-4 record. He lost all four of his fights in the first round. Record wise, I think this is a good match up. Both fighters will be looking to get their first pro victory so it should be a good battle.

155 Jon Lemke 2-0 (Team Irish) vs George Reagan 2-1 (First Coast Full Contact)

Jon Lemke takes on George Reagan at 155lbs. Jon is from Team Irish and has a 2-0 record. Jon has had two great fights for his pro career. He fought an awesome battle at a previous NEF against Nate Oses. He then fought for Bellator up in Maine and beat Jesse Erickson....memba that?? He has some great stand up and has proven he can go the distance if needed. George trains with First Coast Full Contact and has a 2-1 record. I wasn't able to find all his info but he has a decision win and a decision loss. I think this will be a good stand up battle and will go to a decision.

155 Jesse Erickson 0-1 (CMBJJ) vs Josh Parker 4-5 (Independent)

Next up is Jesse Erickson against Josh Parker at 155lbs. Jesse trains with CMBJJ and has an 0-1 record. Jesse just recently went pro for Bellator and suffered a loss to Jon Lemke. Jesse had a great amateur career and went 4-2. He will be looking for his first pro victory. Josh Parker is an independent fighter and has a 4-5 record. Josh has 1 KO/TKO, 2 SUBs and 1 Decision victory in his career. He has lost 3 of his 5 losses to submisions. I feel this is another good match up and a decent challenge for each fighter. If Josh can keep Jesse standing, I think he can has a good shot at the victory. Otherwise I think Jesse has the better ground game.

155 Henry Martinez 9-5 (Team Irish) vs Dez Green 8-1 (Bombsquad) [LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE]

Then NEF has Henry Martinez against Dez Green at 155lbs. Henry is from Team Irish and has a 9-5 record. The majority of Henry's wins came from submissions and decisions so he is comfortable on the ground. His opponent Dez is 8-1 and is from team Bombsquad. Did I mention this is for the lightweight title?? The majority of Dez's wins came from decision and he is an outstanding wrestler. This is a real tough fight for both fighters and I think it is going to be a ground battle. This will be another big win for Dez if he can pull it off.

145 Ray Wood 2-0 (Young’s MMA) vs Ahsan Abdullah 3-2 (Bombsquad)

Next up at 145lbs is the phenom Ray Wood against Ahsan Abdullah. Ray is out of Young's MMA and has an undefeated record of 2-0. I believe he was 5-1 amateur with wins over some excellent 145ers. He then went pro and was back to business ending his fights with tko stoppages to strikes. His opponent Ahsan trains out of Bombsquad and has a 3-2 record. Ahsan has two submission and one decision victories in his career. His two losses came via split decision. This one could very well go all the way to decision. This one could definitely be fight of the night because one thing Ray Wood never is and that is boring to watch!

175 Jarrod Lawton 2-1 (AIBJJ) vs Cody Anderson 1-1 (Team Triumph)

Then NEF has Jarrod Lawton against Cody Anderson at 175lbs. Jarrod has a 2-1 record and trains with AIBJJ. Jarrod's two wins came from submision. His only loss came by the hands of Darrius Heyliger who is the main event of the evening by doctor stoppage. NEF fans will remember Jarrod's last fight against Ryan Sanders where he won literally with seconds left in the final round. The fans including me were breathless. Cody trains with Triumph and has a 1-1 record. Cody was 5-0 amateur and recently went pro at the end of last year. He won his first bout against Hector Sanchez with a brutal slam. His last fight was against Ryan Hodge and he got caught with a sub early in Rd 1. I think Cody got to keep this fight standing for a bit to win this. Jarrod can pull off some slick submissions as Ryan Sanders has found out. This one definitely has potential to be fight of the night or even sub of the night!

265 Travis Bartlett 8-3 (Syndicate) vs Tyler King 6-1 (Connors) [HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE]

Next up is the Heavyweight title showdown against Travis Bartlett and Tyler King. This fight was supposed to happen a few NEF's ago and I for one am happy it is happening this Saturday. Travis trains with Syndicate and has an 8-3 record. Most of Travis's wins were from KO/TKO's. He is from Maine so no doubt the Maine fans will be in full capacity. Tyler trains with Connor's MMA and has a 6-1 record. Randy Smith was supposed to be fighting Travis but pulled out and Tyler anxiously stepped in. Ironically enough Tyler's only loss came by the hands of Randy Smith. Tyler has won a couple of his fights from submission which is very rare for a heavyweight fighter. Travis will want to keep this standing and go for the knockout and Tyler will want to get this fight to the ground and get in his knees from the clinch. This one I don't see going all five rounds, that is for sure!

170 Marcus Davis 21-9 (Team Irish) vs Darrius Heyliger 4-1-1 (Bombsquad)

Now for the main event! It is between Marcus Davis and Darrius Heyliger at 170lbs. Marcus has a 21-9 record and is from Team Irish. He has fought for the UFC several times and his last fight was for Bellator which ended in an unfortunate no contest due to knee to the cup (or breadbasket). Marcus is very well rounded and has wins in all aspects of MMA. Darrius is from Bombsquad and has a 4-1 record. Darrius is also very well rounded. This is a HUGE step up for Darrius and many fight fans that I talk to believe he can win this. Personally I think Marcus has the experience and it will be too much for Darrius. Remember when Tim Sylvia fought Randy Smith NEF fans?? The beauty of MMA is that anything can happen and Darrius might very well make me at my words! This one is going to be an awesome fight and I will be on the edge of my seat. Will you???

There you have the NEF teaser. I think this sets a record for the most fights I will see on one card and I don't know about you but my hands are tired from typing this one. Nick DiSalvo told me he pictures me writing this teaser with a ink quill and a scroll by candlelight. Sorry Nick, but I cannot give away my trade secrets :) It is going to be a long night of fights but no doubt everyone will get their moneys worth. Make sure you get there a little early and check out the apparel vendors. Kill Their Will, SuckerPunch and Occupy the Cage are usually there and they have some great designs. Thanks to NEF for always keeping us in the loop on the fight card changes so we can provide you all with the most up to date card. See you all there!

AFO Fight Video: Yeison Berdugo vs. Scott Gorgone

2013-05-13T07:09:00.000-04:00

AFO Fight Video: Joe Cloutier vs. Mike Schneider

2013-05-13T07:06:00.001-04:00

AFO Releases Fight Card Update and More For Summer Brawl

2013-05-09T17:10:00.000-04:00

AFO has announced some new info up on their website AFOMMA.com. They have stated that the 145lb $10,000 tournament is off due to fighters being hesitant in entering the tournament not knowing who they would be fighting. AFO's Pete DiLorenzo states "So with that being said I started searching for the fighters who would take it but they weren’t really the top 8 and to put that money up and not really have the names that you the fans and news sites wanna see it didn’t make much sense following through with it." The show is of course still on and tickets are available for Summer Brawl which takes place on June 19th, 2013 at the Holiday Inn here. AFO also announced some fights that will be on the card and they are some good ones. I have posted how the card stands today below. The two fights that stand out to me are the pro fights. Billy Giovanella will take on Darren Mima. Mima said he wanted tough fights and he now is in another one for the 125lbs. In another pro fight, Evan Parker 4-0 from Fighting Arts will take on Lauzon's Joe Cushman(9-4) for the 135lbs. Also on the card is Ralph Johnson and Joe Cloutier in a 175lb pro battle. Jarrid Heon makes his pro debut against Asa Zorn. AFO fans will remember Jarrid Heon's last battle against Tommy Venticinque that resulted in a draw. That slate is all wiped clean as Jarrid makes his pro debut. I update the Local Card's tab in our menu quite often so make sure you keep checking there to see the latest updates on how the cards change.

135lb Evan Parker 4-0, FAA vs. Joe Cushman. 9-4, Lauzons
125lb Billy Giovanella, 4-1, Conner's MMA vs. Darren Mima, 2-1, TNT
175lb Joe Cloutier, 2-0 Doomsday vs. Ralph Johnson, 5-5
155lb Jared Heon, Debut, Strikezone vs. Aza Zorn, 0-2
170lb Conner Barry, 1-0, Doomsday vs. TJ Holt
145lb Travis Demko, 1-0, WaiKru vs. Jose Rustrain, 2-2, Boston Combat
185lb Anthony Soto, 1-3, WaiKru vs. Kevin Gyagya, Debut, Boston Combat
170lb James Manning, 2-1, Xcel vs. TBD
135lb John Pain, AFO Debut, Lauzon vs. Fabio Lima, Boston Combat
155lb Barry Lisno, Lauzons vs. TBD
125lb Chad Kelly, Debut, FAA vs. Jared Sarno, 2-0, sssf

Marcus Davis' Team Irish Takes Over NEF VII

2013-05-09T16:36:00.003-04:00

[NEF Press Release]

Lewiston, Maine (May 9, 2013) –Marcus Davis (21-9), in a fighting career that spans beyond two decades, has become a name familiar to followers of combat sports worldwide. Known from Bangor to his adopted spiritual home of Waterford, Ireland and points everywhere in between and beyond, and with titles in boxing and achievements and belts in gladiatorial sports too numerous to list, the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) veteran is a true mixed martial arts (MMA) legend and a fighting hero in Maine. Indeed, Davis has had many personal moments atop the MMA mountain. However, Davis’ proudest moment might yet await him when his famed Team Irish—a bastion of MMA talent that extends from schools in the Southern part of the state to Bangor—takes over New England Fights’ seventh event. At the time of this writing, 16 of Davis’ prized students are set to step into the cage and represent Team Irish on Saturday, May 18th, 2013 at the Androscoggin Bank Colisee in Lewiston, Maine.

“I’m really excited to be able to be part of a show that is showcasing my team and feel very confident in all of the matchups that we are all facing,” stated Davis when reached for comment. “It will be a great show and turnout of Maine MMA supporters.”

“Marcus Davis is one of the most disciplined and serious competitors I have ever met,” stated NEF co-owner and matchmaker Matt Peterson. “He has devoted his life’s work to studying and competing in numerous forms of fighting. It takes a special type of individual to spend as many decades as Marcus Davis has competing in the upper echelon of combat sports. His focus is strict and unrelenting, but it would have to be in order to ascend to the level of proficiency that he has reached in so many diverse disciplines. There are boxers, there are martial artists, and there are fighters and—make no mistake about it—Marcus Davis is a fighter.”

“Marcus has a record that speaks for itself,” stated NEF co-owner and promoter Nick DiSalvo. “His fight library plays like a highlight reel of knockouts and submissions—it’s simply incredible. We’ve seen what he can do in the boxing ring and MMA cage – and on May 18th we get to witness what he’s capable of as a coach. The Team Irish Exposition of 2013 is not to be missed!”

During his tenure as a coach, Marcus Davis has been responsible for launching the careers of such familiar names as UFC veteran Dale Hartt (5-3), World Series of Fighting veteran Travis Bartlett (8-3), and undefeated Bellator fighter Jon Lemke (2-0). On May 18th, fans will get a glimpse of the future of the school when such notables as UFC veteran Henry Martinez (9-5) and top-ranked amateur welterweight prospects Andrew Tripp (4-0) and Andrew Hughes (4-1) fly the Team Irish banner.

“What’s special about the current individuals that make up Team Irish is their focus, desire, hard work and dedication to their training, diets and teammates,” Davis stated. “We have a unique group. Very different styles of fighting, but they all share a common goal of achieving greatness in the sport of MMA. You will see each one fight with their heart and no one will roll over for any opponent. We will make a statement that we are – without any doubt – the best MMA gym in this entire state.”

In his professional boxing and MMA contests, and as a coach, Davis has been credited for being a cerebral fighter—a “fight scientist,” some have said—as much as he has been praised for the physicality of his style that has left a collective wake of almost 40 defeated opponents across 20 years of active competition.

“I don’t make boxers, muay thai fighters, wrestlers or Brazilian jujitsu fighters,” Davis explained. “I make MMA fighters that express themselves through their MMA abilities in their own unique way. I believe in concepts more than specific technique. Technique is very important, but if everyone does everything the same way we are repeating the mistakes of more traditional styles of martial arts. Uncover, discover – that’s what I try to do. Uncover natural ability. Discover their strengths and weaknesses and then try to add techniques and concepts and improve on existing technique through body mechanics.”

As May 18th draws closer and with it what might potentially be Davis’ celebrated final fight in his home state, he remains centered on his students; the next-generation stepping up to carry the Team Irish torch.

“It's an awesome thing to see someone trust in your teachings and believe in you and what you share enough to use it in a chaos situation like an MMA fight,” Davis said in closing. “I always love to watch and live through my students. I can control my thoughts and my actions, but I have no control over them so to see them rise to the occasion is an emotional roller coaster… NEF VII is the first show of its kind to feature a coach who is a 15-time UFC vet with 16 of his students and teammates on a card together. Now that I have signed with Bellator, it may be the last time that people ever have a chance to see it…”

At the time of this writing, the fight card for May 18 in Lewiston consisted of more than thirty fights. The main event will feature Marcus Davis (21-9) taking on Darrius Heyliger (4-1) in a welterweight showdown. The co-main event will see UFC veteran Henry Martinez (9-5) squaring off with Dez Green (8-1) for the Maine State Lightweight Title. In another title fight, Travis Bartlett (8-3) meets former NFL player Tyler King (6-1) for the Maine State Heavyweight Championship. Tickets start at just $25 and are on sale now at www.TheColisee.com or by calling The Colisee box office at 207.783.2009 x 525. For more information on the event, visit www.NewEnglandFights.com. You can watch NEF videos at www.youtube.com/NEFMMA, follow them on Twitter @nefights and join the official Facebook group “New England Fights.”

AFO Fight Video: Mike DeslosReyes vs. Jared Sarno

2013-05-09T06:55:00.001-04:00

AFO Fight Video: Ray Miclette vs. Brandon Newman

2013-05-09T06:53:00.001-04:00

Winterport, Maine’s Tyler Brothers Set To Make MMA Debuts

2013-05-08T19:00:00.002-04:00

[NEF Press Release]

Lewiston, Maine (May 8, 2013) – Today New England Fights! (NEF) announced that siblings Jeremy and Jarrod Tyler of Winterport, Maine will compete alongside each other on the same fight card when each steps into the cage to make their respective amateur mixed martial arts debuts on May 18 at the Androscoggin Bank Colisee in Lewiston, Maine.

The Tyler Brothers’ shared love for the sting and clash of battle began brewing way back on the football field several years ago when they both attended Hampden Academy as high school students. After completing stellar grade school athletic careers that saw Jarrod, 30, earn All-State honors as a linebacker and Jeremy, 26, make his mark in track and field, both went on to play semi-pro football before they made the mutual decision to go to work together for the family businesses. However, the competitive itch didn’t subside for either of them and last year they found their calling.

“I have always loved combat sports and I had always wanted to give it a shot,” stated Jarrod. “About this time last year, I was looking for something to help me through a rough time. It took all of one class at Team Irish to know I had found something I truly love and an amazing group of people to train with as well.”

Soon after discovering Marcus Davis’ Team Irish, Jarrod brought his brother along.“Jarrod joined Team Irish and after about a week of listening to him talk about how amazing the sport was, he convinced me to give it a try,” Jeremy stated. “I went in for a few classes and became very interested in MMA because it was different than any other sport I had ever participated in. Then when a situation came up and my brother wasn’t going to be unable to get to training on a regular basis, I decided to train more consistently so I could drive him to the gym. Over the course of a year, I fell more and more in love with MMA.”

The fact that the brothers began training together in the toughest sport in the world wasn’t surprising to those that know them. The strength of their brotherly bond is immediately apparent to anyone they come in contact with.

“An amazing part of this MMA journey is getting to train alongside my little brother,” Jarrod stated. “We fought a lot growing up, but as we have grown older we have become best friends and now training partners. We live next to each other so we not only train together at Team Iriish, but at home as well. He drives me to be better and I'm always pushing him because we both have the same goal—to work our way toward becoming professional fighters.”

Jeremy agrees. “Training together is always enjoyable because Jarrod is not only my brother, he is one of my greatest friends,” he said. “Jarrod and I have a great back and forth. We are able to critique each other’s techniques in a positive way and motivate each other to push harder in training. Most importantly we have trust in one another. I couldn’t ask for anything better in a training partner.”

At NEF VII, Jeremy is scheduled to face Tollison Lewis (2-5) from Balanced Ground MMA, while Jarrod is set to face off with fellow newcomer Chris Ouellette (0-0) from Havoc MMA. Despite the fact that that this will be their first time entering the cage for a sanctioned bout, both brothers are supremely confident in their training and – most importantly – the wisdom and guidance of their mentor, Marcus Davis.

“Marcus Davis is a key element to my continued interest in MMA,” stated Jeremy. “I look forward to training with Marcus because I know that when I leave his class, I leave an improved version of what I walked in as. Marcus works with the fighter he is training as an individual. He teaches you the techniques and concepts while at the same time he makes sure you are doing applying those in a way that is comfortable and most effective for your particular style. Marcus also expresses the importance of family and a balanced lifestyle. Marcus has forever changed the way that I train and enhanced my lifestyle—and I can’t thank him enough for that.”

Older brother Jarrod reinforced that sentiment. “To be able to go in to the gym day in and day out getting trained by one of my favorite UFC fighters is beyond words,” he said. “Marcus is the ultimate coach and trainer. He knows how to make you better.”

“The first few days the Tyler brothers came into Team Irish, I wasn't around,” Davis recalled. “But I heard from other students that two new guys had joined the gym and were tough as nails. Both of them have huge potential in this sport. The funny thing is, like a lot of siblings, stylistically they are polar opposites. Even their stances – one is conventional and the other a south paw. One will choose to pressure you and beat you up, take you down and make a dog fight out of it. The other will use broken rhythm and attacks that are hard to time because he brings a unique style, which can be hard to find partners to train for. Which is which? Well, I’m not telling – you will just have to come and see on May 18th!”

For their part, the Tyler brothers view their NEF debut as just the first step in what both hope will be a long, promising journey in the sport of mixed martial arts—a journey, like everything else in their lives, that they will take together.

“My goals in this sport are to become a common name heard amongst the great Maine fighters,” stated Jarrod. “I want to become a professional fighter and someday fight and hold a championship belt. I set my goals high because I truly love this sport and believe that I was meant to do this… In my debut you can expect to see me fight hard, leave everything in the cage and, God willing, keep the crowd entertained as I battle for a victory.”

“My intentions in starting MMA were not to become a fighter, but as my passion for the sport grew I found myself having the urge to experience it at a competitive level,” stated Jeremy. “I plan on taking my MMA journey one fight at a time because it is important to stay focused and positive. My two main goals right now are to be the one with my hand raised in the cage onMay 18th and to represent Team Irish and myself in the best way I believe I can.”

“I have a brother that is similar in age to me as the Tyler brothers are to one another—so I understand the dynamics of that brotherhood bond and how productive or corrosive such a relationship can be,” stated NEF co-owner and matchmaker Matt Peterson. “The Tyler brothers are an incredible story of sibling solidarity; driving one another to new heights, together in tandem, in and out of the cage. It’s an honor for us as a promotion that their commitment to competing in mixed martial arts has led them both to the NEF cage simultaneously. Based on their family’s accomplished history of success in business and sport, I don’t think there’s any question that the Tyler brothers strive to carry that same impressive record of achievement into the start of their mixed martial arts careers on May 18th.”

At the time of this writing, the fight card for May 18 in Lewiston consisted of more than thirty fights. The main event will feature Maine MMA legend Marcus "The Irish Hand Grenade" Davis (21-9) taking on Darrius Heyliger (4-1) in a welterweight showdown. The co-main event will see UFC veteran Henry Martinez (9-5) squaring off with Dez Green (8-1) for the Maine State Lightweight Title. In another title fight, Travis Bartlett (8-3) meets former NFL player Tyler King (6-1) for the Maine State Heavyweight Championship. Tickets start at just $25 and are on sale now at www.TheColisee.com or by calling The Colisee box office at 207.783.2009 x 525. For more information on the event, visit www.NewEnglandFights.com. You can watch NEF videos at www.youtube.com/NEFMMA, follow them on Twitter @nefights and join the official Facebook group “New England Fights.”

For Bangor-Native, and MMA Legend, Marcus Davis, You CAN Go Home Again

2013-05-07T16:44:00.000-04:00

[NEF Press Release]

Lewiston, Maine (May 7, 2013) – “But why had he always felt so strongly the magnetic pull of home, why had he thought so much about it and remembered it with such blazing accuracy, if it did not matter, and if this little town, and the immortal hills around it, was not the only home he had on earth? He did not know. All that he knew was that the years flow by like water, and that one day men come home again.”

Those words were penned by Thomas Wolfe some 75 years ago and published posthumously in 1940 in Wolfe's novel "You Can't Go Home Again," two years after the author's death. Three-quarters of a century having passed, the nation, and indeed the entire world, having become a much different place, yet that statement holds as true today as it did in the World War II era. The idea that one can always look to one's home for a sense of comfort and familiarity, no matter how long and how far one has strayed from that home, is a timeless sentiment immortalized in tales and song stretching to the dawn of history. Such is the case of the prodigal son. Such is the case of Marcus Davis (21-9).

On May 18 in Lewiston, Davis will step into the cage in Lewiston, Maine to face Darrius Heyliger (4-1) before more than 3,000 fans packed into the Androscoggin Bank Colisee. The welterweight battle is scheduled to headline a fight card stacked with home state competitors, the good majority of which are at the very beginnings of their careers. Mixed-Martial Arts (MMA) not having been regulated in Maine until 2011, Davis, who began competing in the sport in 2003, was not afforded the same pleasure nor the comforts of competing in his home state early on in his career. Instead, Davis, now 39 years-old, traveled to other parts of New England and as far away as Atlanta, Georgia to hone his craft before entering the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). At the pinnacle of the sport, "The Irish Hand Grenade" became one of the most recognizable stars in the game, his rivalries with names like Dan Hardy (25-10), Chris Lytle (31-18-5) and Mike Swick (15-5) delivering some of the most memorable bouts in the promotion's storied history.

While Davis got to travel the world with the UFC and other international promotions, competing in each corner of the United States and all points between, trekking to foreign locales such as Birmingham, England, the frozen landscape of Alberta, Canada, and Malmo, Sweden, Davis's finest moments may have come fighting in his home state of Maine in the past two years since the sport's legalization and regulation there. In September 2011, Davis competed for the first time ever in a cage on Maine soil. That night he defeated Travis Coyle (11-6) in Portland before a raucous crowd of over 2,000 fans, all there to witness Davis's much-anticipated homecoming. Then, just six weeks ago in Lewiston, Davis once again came home to face Waachiim Spiritwolf (7-11-1) before a crowd of 3,000 jammed into the Androscoggin Bank Colisee on a card presented by fight promotion Bellator and broadcast throughout the world on Spike TV. Unfortunately, this time the home crowd left disappointed, the bout having ended as a "no contest" just three minutes into the first round when Spiritwolf could not continue following an alleged low blow. Moments later, when the May 18 bout between Davis and Heyliger was officially announced, the sense of disappointment subsided and tickets for the next New England Fights! (NEF) card in Lewiston started to move quickly out of the box office.

" I’m always pumped when I get to fight in my homeland of Maine,” stated Davis. “The last time I was able to do so, I was absolutely floored by the support I received, heard and felt that night."

Looking to spoil Davis's latest homecoming is Darrius Heyliger, a 6'4," 24 year-old stud out of Ithaca, New York. Heyliger trains with Ryan Ciotoli's Team Bombsquad, one of the most respected (and feared) camps in the entire country. Indeed, it was the same team that produced current UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Jon "Bones" Jones (18-1). Heyliger has competed in Maine twice before, making his auspicious debut against world-class BJJ brown-belt Jarod Lawton (2-1) in April 2012 with an impressive victory. He returned to Maine five months later, scoring a third-round TKO victory over Josh Bellows (1-2). Darrius Heyliger is the real deal, with all the tools to make it to the big show, and he knows that a win over Davis on May 18 will propel him quickly to that level.

May 18 may very well be the last opportunity Maine fans will have to see their hometown hero fight live in the state. Just two weeks ago, Bellator CEO Bjorn Rebney announced that Davis had signed a long-term contract with the promotion. While the exact details of the contract have not been revealed, it is understood that this new contract will likely take Davis into retirement. With what very well could be his final fight on home turf, "The Irish Hand Grenade" will no-doubt come to this fight with Heyliger all-guns-blazing, looking for one last win before his massive legion of Maine fans.

Whether or not Davis competes again in-state after May 18 remains to be seen, but one thing is for certain - each and every time Marcus Davis returns to Maine, there will be thousands of fans there to welcome the prodigal son, just as they will do in Lewiston eleven days from now. For Davis, no matter how far or how long the road traveled, and though the years may flow by like water, he can always go home again.

At the time of this writing, the fight card for May 18 in Lewiston consisted of more than thirty fights. The co-main event will see UFC veteran Henry Martinez (9-5) squaring off with Dez Green (8-1) for the Maine State Lightweight Title. In another title fight, Travis Bartlett (8-3) meets former NFL player Tyler King (6-1) for the Maine State Heavyweight Championship. Tickets start at just $25 and are on sale now at www.TheColisee.com or by calling The Colisee box office at 207.783.2009 x 525. For more information on the event, visit www.NewEnglandFights.com. You can watch NEF videos atwww.youtube.com/NEFMMA, follow them on Twitter @nefights and join the official Facebook group “New England Fights.”

Chip Moraza-Pollard Is Ready To Show Bellator Fans He Is Ready

2013-05-07T07:15:00.000-04:00

Bellator has working on their own fighting show much like UFC's The Ultimate Fighter. The show is called Fight Master: Bellator MMA and it is set to air on June 19th on Spike TV. The show will be hosted by Jimmy Smith and will have big names helping them along. They are Randy Couture, Joe Warren, Greg Jackson and Frank Shamrock as the coaches. The welterweights will battle it out during the 10 episode season and the winner will be awarded $100,000 and will enter in the Bellator tournament. Yesterday Bellator announced the 32 finalists and Chip Moraza-Pollard has made it. Chip is from Plymouth Mass and trains with Cape Cod Fighting Alliance. He comes onto the show with a 7-4 record and is just 24 years old. I was able to talk with Chip briefly yesterday and I asked him what we can expect from him on the show. "You can expect what I always try to bring to the cage and that is excitement" says Pollard. I saw the Surgeon fight Ricardo Georges back in July of 2012 for Cage Titans and he looked outstanding. He ended up winning that fight via decision and he showed everyone he has some excellent striking. He has proven he can go the distance. In fact 3 out of his 4 losses were from a decision with one of them being split. With the Bellator coaches he is ready to bring his mma game to the next level. "It is awesome getting to be a part of something big, they picked 32 of the best welterweights they could find from everywhere so it is an honor being one of them" explains Chip. We at WesternMassMMA.com will be following along and we wish you the best of luck Chip. For the rest of the fighters that made it click the source link below.

Source: MMAJUNKIE.com

Victory Combat Sports Plans Double Header in May

2013-05-06T15:11:00.000-04:00

Victory Combat Sports has two shows set for May. Their first stop will be in New York at Terminal 5 and will feature Pan Am Gold Medalist and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Phenom Marcus Surin on May 17th. Most importantly to us, the second stop will be in Dorchester on May 18th, which the main event is Jon Manley against Mike Winters. Tickets are available here and start at just $40. The owners of Victory Combat are no stranger to running shows, they have been running Muay Thai shows for nearly two decades. As of right now they have signed 9 fights including 4 of them pro. They informed us that they plan on signing a few more before the card is finalized. The undercard features Kirk Florian, Kenny Florian's brother and the pro card has some big local stars on it as well. I won't go into details on all of the fights because I am saving that for the teaser. Joe Pingitore is fresh off his victory from AFO and is ready to take on Sean Nichols. One other big fight I am excited for is the main event Keith Berish against Pat Walsh at a catchweight of 195lbs. Both Tyler King and Pat Walsh fight on the same day. One in Boston and one in Maine. Of course another awesome battle is the main event, Jon Manley against Mike Winters. It is a classic showdown between Mass and New York. Winters is from Bombsquad and comes into this battle with a outstanding 7-2 record. He has four decisions and 3 ko/tko in his career. Manley, the TUF semifinalist comes into this battle also at 7-2. Training out of Team Link in Northampton Massachusetts. He has 3 submissions and 4 decisions of his own. His last battle was with UFC where he lost a decision which deemed him his second loss of his career. In fact the only two losses in Winters career are also from decisions. The full fight card as of today is found below.

Amateur

Dennis Guerrero (debut) American Top Team, NY VS Yeison Berdugo (1-3) Team United Muay Lao, Providence (135 lbs)

Luis Irizarry (2-0 Muay Thai, MMA debut) Team Thunder, Puerto Rico vs Gabriel Ellis Ferarra (1-0)- Redline Fight Sports, Boston (185 lbs)

Kirk Florian (2-0) Florian Martial Arts, MA VS Angel Cortez (Debut) Team Thunder, Puerto Rico (150 lbs)

Nalton "NJ Mac" MacGlaughlin (2-0 Muay Thai, MMA Debut) American Top Team vs Welly Sanchez (Debut) Redline Fight Sports, Boston (145 lbs)

Michael Castill (Debut) American Top Team, NY vs Alfredo Nunez (Debut) Redline Fight Sports, Boston (155 lbs)

Pro

Brendan "The Badger" Rooney (3-1), C3 Athletics, Stamford, CT vs Lionel Young (6-12) Wai Kru South Shore (155 lbs)

Sean Nichols (1-0) Sityodtong, Boston vs Joe Pingitore (3-0-1) New England Combat, Providence (150 lbs)

Keith Berish (2-0) Black N Blue MMA, Kingston, NY vs Patrick Walsh (3-0) New England Combat, Providence (195 lbs)

Mike Winters (7-2) Bombsquad, Ithaca, NY vs Jon Manley (7-2) Team Link, Ludlow, MA (170 lbs)

AFO Fight Video: Brett Morris vs. Soap Am

2013-05-06T07:20:00.000-04:00

What a great battle between Soap Am and Brett Morris.

AFO Fight Video: Kris Moutinho vs. Gian Vicuna

2013-05-06T07:12:00.002-04:00

Here is the AFO fight between Kris Moutinho and Gian Vicuna.

AFO Fight Video: Kody Nordby vs. Andy Aeillo

2013-05-03T15:25:00.002-04:00

AFO Fight Video: Jose Quinones vs. Barry Liseno

2013-05-03T15:24:00.001-04:00