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The Legacy of Robert Banis

King@mmahawaii.com (Eddie King) — Thu, 16 May 2013 21:24:50 +0000

By: King Eddie

20 year old, Robert Banis, is something special within the fighting community here in Hawaii. He is dedicated, hard working, and always ready to put on a show. Literally, he will fight at any time. In recent weeks, he even competed in two promotions over a weeks time. That type of initiative shows just how much Banis enjoys getting in the ring.

The young kickboxer has little expectation. Training out of team Total Control Kickboxing and Waianae Boxing Club, Banis has many talented training partners with whom he sharpens his dynamic striking skills. As a teammate, you couldn't ask for much better, and as a talent, you'd be hard pressed to find somebody with more technical skills. Robert Banis proves on a daily basis that pure talent exist in the realm of the fighter.

Though his skills come relatively natural to him, Banis still feels the need to hone his craft day in and day out. In doing so, he has earned the respect of everyone in his gym. Teammates Joey Balai and Tofi Mika express only the highest regard for Banis, stating that he is a pillar to the team, and part of the hard set foundation that strengthens one and all.

From the gym to the ring, Banis stands to battle. There is no quit in him, nor is there any ability to do less than his best. His positive attitude makes him as pleasant outside of the ring as his skills make him deadly within. There are few fighters you can find that compete with such relaxation and ease as Robert Banis. But maybe all of this is because the old cliche is true. Some people are fighters, and some people are athletes. Robert Banis, is the former.

As we forge forward into new fighting events here on the islands, no matter the promises of the future, we will always know that where there is action, Robert Banis will be there. With comfort and ease, he will take to the ring, and with heart and skill he will leave it all there for our entertainment. And for his legacy.

Fighters On Weight And Ready For War At Destiny And Madskillz

King@mmahawaii.com (Eddie King) — Sat, 04 May 2013 21:52:00 +0000

By: King Eddie

Tonight at the Filcom Center in Waipahu, Destiny and Mad Skillz bring the boom for the local MMA community. As the building blocks for future MMA superstars, this event will showcase raw local talent at it's best and purest. With over 20 action packed bouts, the fights will be fast, furious, and fantastic as always.

Giving local fighters a chance to build their techniques in each area of the MMA game, Mad Skillz fights showcase kickboxing, boxing with takedowns, and grappling. Also look for action packed MMA and Kickboxing matches between of of the best up and comers. Tickets are flying off, so get there early. Tonight at 5pm, Destiny and Mad Skillz is bringing the fireworks.

In the healining bout, scrappy local fighter Bronson Mohika will be trying to take the title from the current champ, Martin Day. Be prepared for a slugfest when these two titans go to war. Be there, tonight, Waipahu Filcom Center, for Destiny And Mad Skillz Mohika vs. Day.

United MMA Set To Open In Waipio

King@mmahawaii.com (Eddie King) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 07:14:14 +0000

By: King Eddie

Ken Lee and his family have made Martial Arts into a family business. But now they are opening their doors to the local MMA hopefuls here on O'ahu. With experience in International Competition, United MMA brings and evolution of MMA training right here to the local hopefuls. Instead of focusing individually on Muay Thai, Jiu-Jitsu, and other disciplines, United MMA will focus on all around MMA training. Having purchased a Hawaiian Fight Gear Cage, United MMA already has a dynamic within the gym that will create all around training. Being able to train within the caged environment in which many compete in, is priceless. Below is a small description of what Ken Lee and the United MMA family have to offer.

United MMA

United MMA is Hawaii's newest training facility offering professional instruction in MMA, Pankration and TDS. The MMA and Pankration is governed by the W.A.P.F (World Athlima Pangration Federation) and FILA. These two parallel organizations have representation in over 50 Countries World Wide. MMA is the fastest growing sport in history and has its sights on becoming a recognized Olympic Sport through Pankration. Unlike any other MMA club, our program focuses on the seamless transitions in all the ranges of combat into a unique system of Mixed Martial Arts and self-defense called Total Defense System.

We are currently scouting local talent to represent Team Hawaii MMA and Team Hawaii Pankration to compete in National and World Competitions.

United MMA - Lee Family
Ken Lee

*Professional martial arts instructor since 1992
*WTF Taekwondo Blackbelt and Certified Referee
*Former Head Coach of the Canadian Sports Jujitsu Team 2000-2002
*Former President of the Canadian Sports Jujitsu Federation 2001-2003
*Former President of the Canadian Pangration Federation 2002-2003
*Founder and Promoter of "Ultimate Warrior Challenge" launching careers of UFC fighters: Denis Kang, Jeff Monson, Dennis Hallman, John Alessio and many more.
*Founder of TDS (Total Defense System)

Jewelz Lee

*Professional martial arts instructor since 1992
*WTF Taekwondo Blackbelt and Certified Referee
*2-time Canadian Silver Medalist in WTF Taekwondo

Angela Lee 16 year old junior at MHS (4-time USA National Champion, North American Champion, 2-time World Champion)

2011/2012 USA Pankration National Champion
2012 NAGA Expert Champion
2012 World Pankration Champion
2012 World MMA Champion
2013 Hawaii State Wrestling Champion
2013 Tigerbalm North American MMA Champion

Christian Lee 14 year old freshman at MHS (2-time USA National Champion, North American Champion, World Champion)

2011 NAGA Expert Champion
2012 USA Pankration Champion
2012 World MMA Champion
2013 Hawaii JV Wrestling Champion
2013 USFL National Champion
2013 Tigerbalm North American MMA Champion

Victoria Lee 8 year old 3rd grader at Waena Elementary (North American Champion)
2012 USA Pankration 3rd Place
2013 Tigerbalm North American MMA Champion

Adrian Lee 6 year old 1st grader at Waena Elementary (North American Champion)
2012 USA Pankration 3rd Place
2013 Tigerbalm North American MMA Champion

Master Relson Gracie Legacy Reaches New Height This Weekend

King@mmahawaii.com (Eddie King) — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 08:36:19 +0000

By: King Eddie

Many people think that the road to a high ranking in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is a road of many years. But in truth, it's more like many lifetimes. Master Relson Gracie, son of the Grand Master himself, Helio Gracie, will finally attain his highest level of red belt ranking this weekend on O'ahu.

Relson has spent over 20 years in search of attaining this one degree of promotion. For Relson, it's bittersweet. He feels a swell of pride for his accomplishment, but simultaniously feels slight dissapointment in that this will be his final promotion. For a man who has dedicated his entire life to the art of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, it seems that this would be a point in which to settle, but for those who know Relson, it will indeed be just the opposite.

Though his elevation of rank has reached it's highest point, his endless pursuit of betterment, and ever expanding goal of education will continue on. Relson has numerous schools here in Hawaii alone, not to mention his ever expanding list of schools on the mainland as well. Relson's life purpose is to spread the gift that his father gave to him. This promotion is merely a symbol of his lifetime in that pursuit. And now, he will continue on. And though he can reach no higher rank, he will continue to help those who seek his knowlege to reach their goals within Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, and carry out the legacy that his father began so many years ago.

Congratulations to Relson Gracie from all of us here at MMA Hawaii. And thank you for all you do here on the islands. More information about the promotion, and the weekend of seminars can be found by clicking here.

Russell Doane Holds Fundraiser For TUF Tryout Bid

King@mmahawaii.com (Eddie King) — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 00:15:27 +0000

By: King Eddie

Russell Doane has long proved himself on the local MMA circuit. Now stretching himself into the National and International scene by competing in PXC as well as holding a King Of The Cage Title. Doane has shown the world he is ready for a bigger challenge.

His next step will be to try out for the historic new season of The Ultimate Fighter, in which the coaches will be females for the very first time. There will also be female competitors, which will make the season extra interesting. But for us, watching one of our local superstars, like Doane, is the only dynamic we need. Having made it to the interview portion of the TUF tryouts before, Doane knows what to expect. And he feels that this time, he is prepared.

"When I meet the producers this time, I'm just going to be myself. I think that when I am myself, at the very least, I'm fun."

There will be a fundraiser held at RB Sports Bar & Grill on Thursday, April 4th at 9pm. The proceeds will be dedicated to Russell's expenses for The Ultimate Fighter tryouts. Though the opportunity is a fantastic one, the flight, hotel, and other expenses can be hard to come up with on short notice. With the tryouts being held on April 15th, showing support asap is a must.

Good luck Russell Doane and other Hawaii hopefuls. We believe in you.

The 5th Annual Mililani Judo Invitational Was A Success

King@mmahawaii.com (Eddie King) — Sun, 10 Mar 2013 05:43:45 +0000

By: King Eddie

The 5th Annual Mililani Judo Invitational took place today at Mililani High School from 9am to 5pm. The competition was stiff as multiple schools from around the island competed for the title in Judo. In the pictures below, Kapolei defeated Pearl City, by a score of 70 - 30. While some held their hands up in victory today, there were truly no losers.

The Judo community comes together like no other. The support that swept through the atmosphere was amazing to witness. Nearly every Judo player that competed had a smile of their face. Though the competition was tough, everyone performed as true sportsman. A higher standard of athletics was certainly on display.

Both Boys and Girls divisions competed at the invitational. Including schools such as Mililani, Kapolei, Pearl City, Leilehua, Punahou, Moanalua, Roosevelt, and Kamehameha.

Fantastic Judo was the theme of the day, but the overtone was definitely superior sportsmanship. Respect to all who came out to compete, as well as support. As we all know, the driving force behind the Martial Arts in Hawaii, is the support system that is offered from friends and family.

EVENT GALLERY{gallery}2013/judo/2013_0309{/gallery}

Pa'aluhi Punches Ticket To Dubai

King@mmahawaii.com (Eddie King) — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 23:13:19 +0000

By: King Eddie

For Raquel Paaluhi, the latest edition of a defining moment took form at the recent Abu Dhabi trials here on O'ahu. Through two divisions, Raquel found nothing but victory, as she worked her way towards punching her ticket to the Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu tournament in Dubai.

On the day of the trials, Raquel was merely looking to do her best and express her skills on the mat. She wanted to find the practical uses for what she has been sharpening at Gracie Technics, under the wing of Rylan Lizares. But as the trials progressed, Paaluhi found herself in the winners circle time and time again.

"It was amazing. I kind of didn't believe it even as it was happening."

Raquel made her way from opponent to opponent, challenging some of the toughest females in the sport. Some of her opponents were from here in Hawaii, and others from the mainland or brazil, but it was no matter to Paaluhi where they were from. It only mattered to her that they stood in her way. So one by one she dispatched of them, on her quest to make the cut for Abu Dhabi.

Though winning by points is not a bad way to win, the finish is what every player seeks. Raquel found that success four times during the trials, and likely none more sweet than her final match in which her opponent chose to have disrespectful words with Paaluhi's sister, moments before the start of the match. If you know the Paaluhi family, you can see what that was a mistake. Raquel attacked the match with furious resolve, and took her opponents arm home as a trophy.

As a white belt competing against blue and purple belts, many questioned the legitimacy of her ranking. But to that Raquel responds by acknowledging her instructors reluctance to prematurely promote his students. She does not question her belt ranking, she merely follows the instruction of Lizares, and understands that he will know when the time is right to promote. But the Jiu-Jitsu politics aside, Paaluhi proved that no matter her rank, she is up for the challenge of competition.

Now that Paaluhi punches her ticket to Dubai, she will represent Hawaii in a competition that is recognized as one of the toughest and most prestigious in the world. And as we, here in Hawaii, look on in admiration, we can add another marker to the book of Raquel's progression. Over the years she has blossomed right in front of our eyes, and has led the way for female martial artist here on the islands. Her iron will and unwavering determination are a beacon of example to those who wish to compete. No matter the challenge, adversity, or setback, Paaluhi powers through.

Stay logged in here to MMAhawaii.com as we update Raquels progression throughout her journey to Dubai in April.

Thank you, Pacific Diamond and Swiss Watch Exchange

info@mmahawaii.com (Administrator) — Thu, 07 Feb 2013 21:33:13 +0000

Big Mahalo to our sponsor Pacific Diamond & Swiss Watch Exchange. Check out their selection at www.PacificDiamondSwissWatch.com

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Hawaii No Ka Oi: The Presence Of Hawaii Fighters In MMA

King@mmahawaii.com (Eddie King) — Sun, 03 Feb 2013 12:46:57 +0000

By: King Eddie

There is something very strong happening right now for Hawaii MMA. Something powerful. Almost spiritual. Through tireless work and countless warriors, the islands are starting to gain a foothold like never before in the sport of MMA. In any other location in the world, to speak of a "Warrior Spirit" would be cliche', but here in Hawaii it's only fitting. Born and bred on ancient soils of the island warriors, the fighting spirit still lives strong within us. And it's starting to make it's presence felt once again, as we speak.

Hawaii has always been a little known, fighting hot zone. And through the years we have had many greats under the bright lights around the world. Fighters such as Egan and Enson Inoue, Ronald Jhun, Niko Vitale, BJ Penn, Kendall Grove, Shane Nelson and many others. But at this very moment, there is a surge in Mana that we can all feel. Whether we choose to admit it or not.

For the MMA community in Hawaii, it's almost as if a turbocharger has been strapped to our energy. Many can feel the continual rise with each passing day. And with weekends like this one, it's easy to see why. Lowen Tynanes and Dustin Kimura lit of the big stages in both Asia and America. Each letting the world know that Hawaii fighters are more than just bangers. Through statements of heart, will, strength, and grappling, these two men toppled tough opponents on the biggest stages in the world. But it doesn't stop there. As it sits now, Hawaii is as strong now in the world of MMA as it has ever been. On the current UFC roster right now we have Travis Browne, Brad Tavares, BJ Penn, Eddie Yagin, Chris Leben, Max Holloway, Dustin Kimura, and Yancy Medeiros. Not to mention the fighters like Jake Heun, Sale Sproat, Brysen Hansen, and Johnavan Vistante who have competed in TUF.

Then in other organizations such as PXC and OneFC, we have fighters like Lowen Tynanes, Harris Sarmiento, Russell Doane, Toby Misech, Kailin Curran, Shayne Biven, Louis Smolka, and Ian Dela Cuesta.

In WSOF we have Tyson Nam.

And In Invicta we have had Raquel Pa'aluhi.

There is a force flowing through us right now that is taking the world by storm. We are on the map once again, and it comes not from just living here in Hawaii. It doesn't come from a any novelty special treatment we get for being thousands of miles from anywhere. It comes in spite of all of that. Our fighters have struggled with lack of opportunity, lack of opponents, lack of pay, and lack of ability to evolve for years and years and years. But now, we are finding ways around it. We are adapting, and we are rising to the top.

After Dustin Kimura's recent UFC debut victory, he and Max Holloway enjoyed a dinner with Eddie Yagin. Though to them it may have appeared as just a mere dinner, it was a signal to any who saw them that Hawaii stands together. We are one. And that is the exact message they should be getting. Because regardless of team, island, or affiliation, we are at our core one and the same. We are all Hawaii. And our statement is being made with each achievement completed by our young men and women determined enough to make it to the highest levels.

Having been a product of the local spirit for years, and now relocated to the mainland, Eddie Yagin feels that Hawaii is now being noticed as a legitimate home to pure talent.

"Look at everything that's happening right now. Hawaii fighters are being recognized for coming to fight. Every one of these guys I see out there are bangers, and I LOVE IT. We are making a statement that Hawaii fighters come to fight, and come to finish. No matter how we gotta finish it, we will. Hawaii, right now, is strong."

Having been a career underdog, Eddie Yagin is now at a point in his UFC career where he may be a mere one or two fights away from a title shot. And pending his medical clearance to compete once again, he makes it his duty to support the warriors of these islands in any capacity that he can. Because at the end of the day, we support one another like no other place in the world.

As the world begins to take notice, we should never pass on an opportunity to remind them that Hawaii breeds warriors. And we should always remind them that we are strong because we stand together. Always. No matter the circumstances, a local fighter will never stand alone. They will always have family. They will always have friends. They will always have fans. And they will always have the undying bond of Hawaii and it's people.

Impact Life Center Now Open MMA Classes

info@mmahawaii.com (Administrator) — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 09:44:07 +0000

Since its founding just one year ago, Kupuna and Keiki Services a 501 (c) 3 not-for profit agency, has begun to play a role in the transformation of Kalihi, Honolulu from a town where the poor have limited opportunities and hope, to a place where they have a chance to change their destiny through education and assistance. Kupuna and Keiki Services is requesting donations to further this effort by supporting their Impact Life Center.

Organization and Mission

Impact Life Center provides access to youth of low economic status the ability to develop their mind, body and soul through Martial Arts and education. Due to the high cost of gym memberships around the area, high-risk youth that could gain the most from martial arts to teach discipline and build self confidence, are being left on the streets of Kalihi for financial reasons. The average gym membership ranges from the high $200 per month to $100 per month which makes it almost impossible for youth to take these classes. Our goal is to provide affordable Martial Arts to the youth in our community.

It wasn’t too many years ago that Kalihi earned its reputation as a tough town with many of the same problems facing similar urban, minority neighborhoods in the Nation. The news is most often about crime, truancy, substance abuse, obesity, teen pregnancy, and arrests. Academic success is often too difficult to achieve and school cut-backs have decreased the access and the availability of technological resources to public school students from elementary to middle and high school. Kupuna and Keiki Services seeks to address this critical need area by establishing a Computer Tech Center in this neighborhood where poverty is particularly high.

Body/Physical

Through Martial Arts, participants learn a lot about themselves. With today’s problems of obesity, bullying and self confidence issues in our youth today, our instructors can teach skills and lessons that can address these issues.
Mind/Education

Impact Life Center will provide our youth with computers with WiFi and tutors to help them develop basic computer skills that will assist them with their homework so they are better prepared to graduate from high school and be more competitive in the workforce with greater opportunities for success.

Soul/Self Confidence

We emphasize discipline, respect and self confidence. Volunteer work in the community is a component of the program to teach the youth about respecting oneself and respecting others. We will have speakers to educate our youth about bullying, gangs and other social issues

Martial Arts Classes/MMA
Martial Arts classes will be taught by Veteran Coach of the Bulls Pen, Dino Fernandez. His students have held numerous titles and belts and he has a wealth of knowledge and experience to help guide youths and adults in discipline, health and respect. TIMES
MartialArts/MMA Classes are held Monday -Friday 6PM-9PM (open mats on Friday)Fore more information

IMPACT LIFE CENTER LOCATION
1425 Dillingham Blvd suite 100, Honolulu, Hi 96817
(Located behind Boulevard Saimin, close to sizzlers, Dillingham Business Center)Mailing Address

Impact Life Center
P.O Box 10915, Honolulu HI 96816For more information
call 852-9188or Email us at info@keikiandkupuna.com Kupuna and Keiki Services