I posted about ordering my new Atama summer gi a few days ago, and I’ve already received it. Thanks to GroundAndPound.com for the fast shipping. They sent exactly what I wanted. The gi is really nice, and it definitely feels like it will be cooler for training in hot weather. I tried it on and it fits great, it has the same cut as other Atama kimonos. I won’t be able to train in it until Wednesday, but it should be fun breaking it in.

Teixeira takes K-1 Japan GP; Schilt and Hari Also Win in Fukuoka
Written by Monty DiPietro.

FUKUOKA, June 29, 2008 — Twenty-six-year-old kyokushin fighter Ewerton Teixeira of Brazil won the K-1 Japan Grand Prix 2008; while Semmy Schilt and Badr Hari defended their Championship Belts tonight at the K-1 World Grand Prix 2008 in Fukuoka.

Held on the Japanese southern island of Kyushu, the event comprised the eight-man Japan GP 08 elimination tournament; a Superfight between veteran superstar Peter Aerts and Jan “The Giant” Nortje; and a couple of highly-anticipated title matches — Schilt versus Jerome LeBanner for the Super Heavyweight Belt; and Hari versus Glaube Feitosa for the K-1 Heavyweight Belt.

The Super Heavyweight title match featured Defending K-1 World GP and Super Heavyweight Champion Semmy Schilt. The 6’11″/211cm – 128kg/282lbs Dutch seidokaikan karate fighter stepped in against one of K-1′s most respected veterans, Jerome LeBanner of France.

Fighting from a southpaw stance, LeBanner answered Schilt’s early low kicks in kind, but Schilt soon tagged him with a right straight punch. With his 22cm/9″ height advantage and long reach, Schilt made it look easy — leaning forward to casually throw the right, closing and pulling his opponent’s head downward to deliver the knee. A spunky LeBanner kept his guard relaxed, putting aggressiveness ahead of defense, ever flirting with danger. The Frenchman closed repeatedly, landing a left to come out of the first round ahead on one judge’s card. In the second, Schilt went with low kicks and approached with the fists, scoring with both the right and left. LeBanner meanwhile struggled to get through, often leading with the left, but not finding his distance against the Tower of Power.

Schilt put in punches and the knee and spun around a back kick that just missed to start the third. LeBanner continued to press, leading again with the left, getting the crowd into it when he put a punch up on Schilt’s collarbone. LeBanner’s pesky low kicks were part of his in-and-out strategy here, but these did not appear to bother the Dutch behemoth, who gave back more than he got during the exchanges. As the clock timed out, Schilt simply stayed back and waited, hoisting the big knee when his opponent got close.

Schilt by majority decision. With the victory, Schilt both defended his belt and set a new K-1 record — his 14 consecutive victories bettering the string of 13 wins Peter Aerts put together in ’93-’96.

“I want to thank all my fans,” said Schilt from center ring, “and send a special thanks to my fans in Holland, because I know they’re all watching. I also want to thank my wife and my son, because they give me great inspiration!”

“I’ve defended my belt three times now,” said Schilt in his post-fight interview, “and I think people expect me to always win by KO. But that’s difficult, I just concentrate to win the fight, that’s my goal. I’ve heard that Badr Hari wants to fight me, if that’s set up then I’m happy to meet him, but he should know that I won’t give away my belt so easily!”

The K-1 Heavyweight title match presented a study in contrasts. Defending Champion Badr Hari of Morocco is an explosive fighter whose long reach, aggressive style and singular bravado have made him a fan favorite. His opponent was one of the most technical K-1 fighters, soft-spoken kyokushin stylist Glaube Feitosa of Brazil.

Hari surprised Feitosa early with a couple of quick left straight punches, and continued to strike to effect, pounding in a punishing right to the midsection. Feitosa tested with the low kicks, but Hari stayed back to avoid these before approaching aggressively with the fists, a right high kick, a knee and then more fists to prompt a standing count. Feitosa was rattled, and after resumption Hari coolly laid in once again with punches, landing a terrific hook to finish the Brazilian. Nothing short of spectacular, this performance by the 23 year-old Moroccan, who immediately went to Feitosa’s corner and bowed in respect.

“Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls,” said an elated Hari from center ring, “I want to thank my trainer, my sparring partner, my girlfriend and I want to thank all you fans who supported me. I’ll keep doing my best, showing you great knockouts. This is the new generation of K-1, and there’s more to come!”

“I said I would win by KO, and I did, so I’m very happy with that,” said Hari in post-fight interview. “I think I’ve shown I’m the number one K-1 Heavyweight, and now my goal is to also win the Super Heavyweight belt. I’m ready, and I believe I can KO Semmy Schilt!”

In the evening’s Superfight, it was a couple of veterans — Peter Aerts and Jan “The Giant” Nortje.

They call Aerts “The Lumberjack,” but now he also carries the honorific “Mr. K-1.” Incredibly, the 38-year-old Dutch kickboxer has competed in every K-1 WGP Final since the sport’s inception in 1993, winning it all three times. Victories last autumn over Ray Sefo and Remy Bonjasky suggest that Aerts still has plenty of fight left in him.

Nortje, meanwhile, is a former South African Super Heavyweight kickboxing champion. At 6’11″/211cm – 148kg/311lbs, “The Giant” is always a threat.

Aerts threw the jab, tossed in low kicks and launched a couple of high kicks in the first round. But Nortje’s defense was sound and the Giant responded with a couple of hard low kicks of his own to stay close. In the second, Aerts came in again, pounding punches into his opponent’s midsection. His guard low, Nortje met Aerts’ approaches with the uppercut, and got through nicely with a left straight midway through.

In the third, Aerts connected with a couple of straight punches, opening a nasty cut over the Giant’s left eye to prompt a check by the ringside doctor. Nortje was cleared to continue, but now Aerts moved in more aggressively with the fists, making good contact to prompt another doctor’s check. After resumption, Nortje lumbered forward to engage his opponent, but again found himself on the receiving end of a barrage of punches. Aerts now fired a right high kick to the face and followed with several tight hooks and that was it — the referee stepped in to stop the fight. An impressive victory for Aerts.

“Six months ago I hurt my knee at the World Grand Prix Final,” said Aerts afterward. “So I started slow tonight, testing myself. But by the second round I’d found my rhythm. I feel great, I’m ready to fight in September, and I hope my opponent is Semmy Schilt!”

Schilt’s dance card is filling up quickly.

Prominent on tonight’s card was the K-1 Japan Grand Prix 2008, one of four major regional tournaments in this year’s K-1 World GP Series. This followed the classic K-1 eight-man elimination format — four quarterfinal bouts advancing a quartet of winners to the semis, the victors there meeting in the final.

In the first of the quarterfinals it was a couple of Japanese — veteran seidokaikan fighter Musashi and 22 year-old kickboxer Keijiro Maeda.

Although he has captured the Japan GP Crown a record four times, Musashi, 35, faces increasing challenges from emerging Japanese fighters. Maeda, undefeated in four K-1 bouts including a win this April over Samoan slugger Mighty Mo, represented just such a threat.

From the bell, Musashi held center ring while Maeda circled. The pair exchanged low kicks through the round, neither getting anything dangerous across, although Musashi just missed with a couple of high kicks. In the second, Musashi cut off the ring, closing with punches which Maeda answered in kind. Some spirited exchanges here, but neither fighter making full contact — a quick Musashi high kick one of the better strikes of the round.

In the third the pace picked up — Musashi, with a relaxed guard, taking the initiative with the fists and getting some good stuff through. Maeda, however, was great with his counters, landing a dandy right straight punch. Further, Maeda’s hard inside low kicks were taking their toll on Musashi’s leg. A close contest — one judge saw a draw, but the other two gave it to Maeda by the narrowest of margins.

The second quarterfinal featured two young Japanese fighters with strong karate backgrounds — Mitsugu Noda and Takumi Sato. The pair have a total of 11 K-1 fights between them, with only one loss each.

Both fighters had their guards high to start, testing with kicks and straight punches, closing to work the body blows and uppercuts from the clinch. Noda made some noise in the latter part of the first round, getting the better of the punch exchanges and pumping up the knee, although Sato made estimable contact with a left straight punch. In the second the pair got close and mixed it up, Sato scoring with a large number of unanswered hooks. The third saw Noda put his opponent against the ropes and lay in, but Sato’s defense was sound, he soon began to reply, rattling Noda with an uppercut. Both fighters were fatigued and battered as this war of attrition wound down.

Another close call, one judge calling it a draw, two favoring Sato to give him a semifinal date with Maeda.

First up in the second tournament bracket were Ewerton Teixeira and Japanese kickboxer Tsutomu Takahagi. A spirited start, the fighters closing aggressively with kicks and fists, Teixeira following a knee to the midsection with a flurry of punches to score a down. Teixeira displayed an impressively varied arsenal featuring a spinning back kick, high kicks and knees. It was a Teixeira knee to the chin that proved the decisive blow, sending Takahagi to the canvas for the second time in the round and putting Teixeira into the semifinals.

In the last of the quarterfinals, Japanese karate stylist Nakasako met multidisciplinary fighter Bernard Ackah, a Cote d’Ivoire-born Japanese resident.

Ackah with a strong start — leading with the right to put Nakasako on the ropes, then bringing up the knee. Nakasako weathered the attack, but aside from a couple of low kicks was less than belligerent as the round progressed. In the second, Nakasako had some success landing a high kick, Ackah responding again with the fists before things slowed down, both fighters unwilling to commit.

Ackah in quickly with the fists to start the third, following with a high kick that was ably blocked. Toe-to-toe now, punches were exchanged but most either missed or were blocked. Nakasako stung his opponent’s leg with a low kick midway through the third, the remainder of the fight otherwise lackluster. Ackah was grimacing as he limped back to his corner after the bell, and the cards had it for Nakasako by unanimous decision.

In the first of the semifinals Maeda took on Sato. Both fighters tested the distance with low kicks in the early going before stepping in for an exchange of punches from which Maeda took an edge, sinking a right overhand and straight punch. In the second, the speedy Maeda peppered his opponent with punches, although Sato only just missed with an uppercut and a hook on counters. Sato tossed a lazy low kick to start the third, and once again Maeda darted in with the quick fists. Sato saw a chance when he planted a powerful left uppercut and a couple of rights, but Maeda showed a good chin and stamina to keep coming back. A thrilling contest, the win going to Maeda by unanimous decision.

In the second semifinal it was Teixeira and Nakasako.

Teixeira with kicks to start, Nakasako leaning in with straight punches but unable to find his distance. Tentative strikes and only occasional combinations through most of the first round. Teixeira sailed a spinning back kick short early in the second before scoring a down with a right low kick that stung Nakasako’s left knee. With Nakasako in distress, Teixeira focused his attacks, planting low kicks one after the other on the left leg. Nakasako struggled to push forward with the punches, and paid the price when closing, but made it out of the round.

Teixeira varied his attacks in the third while continuing to give special attention to Nakasako’s lead leg. To his credit, Nakasako crusaded through the pain, staying on his feet and in the fight right to the final bell. The unanimous decision, however, went to Teixeira.

And so it was Teixeira and Maeda in the Main Event.

After a cautious start, a Teixeira right straight punch on the counter knocked an off-balance Maeda back and into the ropes, but the Japanese fighter stayed on his feet. Ever circling, Maeda kept out of harm’s way through the first, but offered little in the way of offense. In the second, Maeda opened with a low kick before resuming his circling tactic. Teixeira closed to a clinch as the action waned. The Brazilian then began to cut off the ring and launched punching attacks, making good contact with a right, although Maeda responded with a straight left to keep things close.

The third round started promisingly, the fighters exchanging punches, both making use of speed, both sound on defense. Teixeira went mostly with the left-right tight combinations, occasionally tossing in a low kick; while Maeda swung away with abandon. Teixeira clocked the Japanese fighter with a right hook, while Maeda managed only partial contact from inside.

Teixeira by unanimous decision. With his tournament win, Teixeira takes the Japan GP 2008 belt and advances to the K-1 World GP 2008 Final Elimination in Seoul on September 29.

“I want to thank kyokushin,” said the beaming Brazilian afterward. “I’m happy to become the Japan Grand Prix Champion, but this is just the beginning. Now I have to train hard to become the K-1 World Grand Prix Champion!”

Asked if he was ready to take on Semmy Schilt, Teixeira smiled, “Schilt is an extremely strong fighter, I will have to practice long and hard if I’m going to compete with him!”

In the Tournament Reserve bout, Japanese fighter Taisei Ko KO’d compatriot Keigo Takamori; while Shinkyu Kawano did the same to Takashi Tachikawa in an undercard contest.

All bouts were fought under Official K-1 Rules, three rounds of three minutes each. The title matches, Superfight and tournament final had two possible tiebreaker rounds, the other bouts, one.

The K-1 World Grand Prix in Fukuoka attracted a crowd of 6,927 to the Fukuoka Marine Messe. It was broadcast live across Japan on Fuji TV and in South Korea on the CJ Media Network. Time-delay broadcasts will bring the event to more than 100 countries — for scheduling information, contact local providers. Check with the K-1 Official Website (www.k-1.co.jp/k-1gp) for official results and comprehensive coverage of this and all K-1 events.

Entering the fight as a 2-1 underdog didn’t bother Josh Thompson. He even wore a mouthpiece that said “CHAMP” to the fight. It was a decisive victory for Thompson, as he controlled all 5 rounds of the championship fight. Josh Thompson totally controlled the fight, especially the striking. Watchers saw no sign of  Thompson’s past shoulder injury. The results from the event are:

Josh Thompson defeats Gilbert Melendez by decision, 5
Billy Evangelista defeats Nam Phan by decision, 3
Bobby Southworth defeats Anthony Ruiz by decision, 3
Eric Lawson defeats Jesse Gillespie by submission (RNC), 1
Miesha Tate defeats Elaina Maxwell by decision, 3
Jeremiah Metcalf defeats Raymond Daniels by submission (RNC), 2
Chris Cariaso defeats Anthony Figueroa by submission (RNC), 2
Bobby Stack defeats Jose Palacios by decision, 3
Brian Caraway defeats Alvin Cacdac by submission (RNC), 1
Cyrillo Padhillo defeats Jesse Jones by decision, 3
Jorge Interiano defeats Travis Johnson by TKO (doctor stoppage), 2
Alexandre Trevino defeats Eric Jacob by submission (armbar), 1

Yeah I know, what the hell am I talking about a show called “Dance Machine” for? Because I was just casually browsing through my TV listings for tonight, and noticed the shows description says this:

Regular folks compete in a series of one-on-one dance contests set to popular tunes in the series opener of this reality show. Studio audience members vote on who gets eliminated, paring six hopefuls down until one is crowned the night’s winner. Contestants include a cashier from Africa; a mixed martial artist from Las Vegas; a student from New Jersey; a gym teacher from New York; and an acrobat and a fashion designer from California. Jason Kennedy hosts.

Who is it? I doubt it is anyone we’ve heard of, but nonetheless I will probably Tivo the show out of curiosity. Also, you should sign up on our MMA Forum.

www.mattfororegon.com

The primary election is over and against the predictions of all the “certified smart” people I won the primary by a margin of 59% to 41%. That was a whopping 19 point margin. Truly unexpected.

However, I could not have done it without the help of folks like you. Since I am not a “politician” the special interest groups were lined up against me and supported my opponent. I had to rely on the financial support of average folks to get the word out about my campaign and I am exceedingly grateful for your support.

Now the big work begins. We have to move on to the general election campaign and again I am up against your standard politician, and again I am counting on hundreds of supporters to help me out.

Your financial support is pivotal in helping me pay for mailings, radio ads and lawn signs. Your support will also help me in sending a strong message to the special interests that might want to get involved in this campaign. If they see that I am supported by hundreds of individuals then they will be more likely to stay out of the race on the side of my opponent.

This seat in Oregon is an “open” seat, which means there is no incumbent in the race. This particular district has traditionally been a Republican district and I am the Republican candidate with a strong independent streak.

I hope you will visit my website (http://mattfororegon.com/) and make a contribution to my campaign. It is easy to do. Simply click on the “Donate” button and fill out the information. Many of you have already done so.

If you reside in Oregon you can take advantage of the “Oregon political tax credit.” That allows you to deduct, dollar for dollar, up to $50 from your STATE income tax return. Or if you are married they will allow you to deduct up to $100 from your STATE return.

In essence, if you are in Oregon, your political donation is free.

I believe in limited government principles. I believe that the state of Oregon is taxing businesses too much and creating more and more road blocks to business expansion and job creation. My opponent is getting her marching orders from her caucus and will undoubtedly move the state in the wrong direction.

Once again I want to ask for your help. I have a strong stable of dedicated volunteers but I need to get them materials for distribution. In order to compete against my opponent I need to pay for mailings, radio ads, newspaper ads and lawn signs.

If everyone receiving this email were to respond with a contribution, of any size, it will shock, again, the “certified smart” people of politics.

Thank you for your help in the primary election and thank you in advance for your help in the general election.

Sincerely,
Matt “the law” Lindland.

Russia’s Last Emperor vs. The American Maine-iac
June 27, 2008 – 6:47AM

SIGNAL HILL, California (June 26, 2008) – The Cold War might be over, but old rivalries die hard. On July 19th at Honda Center in Anaheim, California, two of the world’s greatest MMA super powers will collide when Russia’s Fedor Emelianenko faces off with America’s Tim Sylvia for the WAMMA heavyweight championship.

These two formidable heavyweight champions finally make it into the ring together, in an event as impressive as the two athletes heading the bill — “Affliction Banned.” These two heavy hitters are so accomplished it’s a challenge for them to find competitive opponents. The two are almost perfectly matched in number of professional bouts they’ve fought in, with Sylvia compiling 24 wins and only 4 losses, and Fedor recording 28 wins and 1 loss. It’s hard to imagine what it will be like in the ring with these two monsters of MMA go head-to-head.

Fedor is a powerful, intelligent fighter and technician who doesn’t outwardly show much emotion, but fights (and trains) with a lot of heart. This astounding fighter never retreats, has great takedown and ground control skills, and is the most devastating fighter that MMA has ever seen when he’s on the inside. And Fedor hits very hard, with amazing knockout power in both hands. Unlike most fighters, Fedor is also a master game planner who follows through on the plan, and simply doesn’t wilt under pressure, no matter what the circumstances. Fedor’s record is impeccable, losing only once when a referee decided to end a fight early when he sustained a bad cut from an elbow. All in all, Fedor seems virtually unbeatable.

Although Fedor is the top-ranking heavyweight in the world, there’s no doubt that Tim Sylvia is a force to be reckoned with. With a full 8 inches and 30 pounds over Fedor, Sylvia is a monster with an impressive record, surprisingly quick hands and a long reach that many opponents find hard to escape. His size and striking power, coupled with a rock-em sock-em attitude and stamina are a dangerous combination every time he steps in front of an opponent. Trying to regain the championship title in a fight in 2004, Sylvia wouldn’t tap out when Frank Mir locked him in an armbar, even after his arm was snapped. The ref had to put an end the fight, because Sylvia, broken arm and all wouldn’t give up.

Fedor, who has already proved himself in the ring, is looking to earn a different kind of reputation with the American people. “As far as American fans, I’d like them to get to know me personally…not just as a fighter — as a human being as well.” And Sylvia, who has suffered from some criticism and controversy, has a personal, as well as professional, agenda as well — he’s just looking for a little respect. A win against the current world heavyweight champion just might quiet the chatter and earn him the respect he yearns for. In Sylvia’s own words, “It’s time to see if Fedor still has what it takes to be #1.”

On the evening of July 19th at Honda Center in Anaheim, the MMA mega-event of all times —“Affliction Banned”— promises to bear this out.

“Affliction Banned” is stacked with so much world-class talent that it had to be separated into two live shows produced for broadcast. The night’s activities will kick off with “Affliction Live,” a one-hour, free live telecast on FSN (Fox Sports Net) starting at 5 PM Pacific (8 PM/ET) and setting the stage for “Affliction Banned” – five super fights on pay-per-view starting at 6 PM/PT (9 PM/ET) via iN DEMAND, TVN, Shaw Communications, Viewers Choice Canada, DirecTV, DISH Network, Bell ExpressVue and Star Choice in the United States and Canada for a suggested retail price of $39.95.

The heavy metal band Megadeth, led by frontman, guitarist, and songwriter Dave Mustaine, will be performing live at the event.

Tickets for “Affliction Banned” range between $50.00 and $1,000.00, and are on sale at Honda Center’s Box Office and also online at Ticketmaster.com

Two Icons in MMA History Create Magic Together

Los Angeles, CA, June 25, 2008 – The latest TapOut commercial, directed by Bobby Razak, debuted on the UFC TUF Finale and created record traffic to the TapOut website as well as a hungry buzz to see more. The premiere of “Bloodlines”, a short film expanding on the commercial, kicks off with a pre-launch party this Saturday June 28th at Miyagis in Hollywood and will be posted exclusively on TapOut.com’s website on July 1, 2008.

As mixed martial arts (MMA) goes mainstream the most authentic films and programming will come from veterans in the business. Bobby Razak has spent the last 14 years filming documentary-style accounts of the growth from No Holds Barred competition to a sanctioned sport. TapOut has spent as many years building a respected empire of clothing, fighter sponsorships and reality programming.

Bobby Razak and TapOut Films presents “Bloodlines” which depicts the internal struggles of a man conquering his environment. A troubled man, Nikko Medina triumphs adversity through developing his physical, mental and spiritual morals.

On a path to saving his life and family from violence and poverty he discovers a physical outlet in mixed martial arts that shapes his character. He is exposed to the hardship of transforming his mindset while molding his physical skill set. His spirit is tested with each trainer to reach his core being. Can he make it or not? What are his alternatives? As a newcomer to the sport, Medina is forced to face his inner demons when faced with a deadly opponent. His destiny unfolds.

This mixed martial arts short is the brainchild of Executive Producer Bobby Razak and TapOut Films. The sport was born of ancient Roman Gladiators, Pankration and Bruce Lee in an effort to combine the mental game with the physical prowess of masters. For this reason some say that mixed martial artists are the best athletes in the world. “Bloodlines” gives a compelling taste of a true warrior in the making.

As MMA continues to ‘go global’ Razak documents MMA’s transition from underground to mainstream popularity as well as the legal, ethical and make-or-break career decisions that will mold the industry.

Nick Diaz was supposed to be fighting Hayato “Mach” Sakurai at DREAM, but Gary Shaw forced Diaz to withdraw from that fight so he could schedule a Diaz vs. KJ Noons rematch for a live EliteXC show on CBS. However, for some reason KJ Noons isn’t going to fight Diaz, and has been replaced with Thomas Denny. Big disappoinment.

Don’t get me wrong, Thomas Denny is a veteran fighter, and may possibly even be a tougher opponent for Diaz, but it’s just not the rematch fans wanted to see, especially after the altercation with Karl Noons, Sr. and the Noons posse at the last EliteXC show.

The Diaz/Denny EliteXC event will be in Stockton, California — Nick Diaz’ hometown.

UNDEFEATED KICKBOXING PHENOM TO MAKE MMA DEBUT AT “MELENDEZ VS. THOMSON”

Former World Combat League superstar already touted as the next Cung Le

SAN JOSE, Calif. — Following a spectacular, undefeated run in Chuck Norris’ World Combat League, 28-year-old kickboxing superstar, Raymond “The Real Deal” Daniels (0-0), will make his long-awaited mixed martial arts (MMA) debut when he takes on Jeremiah Metcalf (8-4) in a middleweight (185 lb. limit) battle at Strikeforce’s “Melendez vs. Thomson” mega-card at HP Pavilion on Friday.

Already being hailed as the second coming of Strikeforce World Middleweight Champion, Cung Le, Daniels, recognized as the number one Sport Karate fighter in the world, holds a 6th degree black belt in Kenpo and Shotokan Karate as well as a 5th degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. He packs a thrilling, dynamic fighting style that is strikingly similar to Le, also a guru of traditional martial arts.

“I’m going to give MMA fans something that they’ve never seen before,” said Daniels, a resident of Long Beach, California. “I want to become the greatest fighter of all time. Anybody that steps in front of me is just gonna be on my next highlight reel, an obstacle that’s standing in my path to greatness.”

The career path of Daniels, thus far, mimics that of Le, who crossed over to the world of mixed martial arts in 2006 after running to a perfect 16-0 record in the sport of professional kickboxing. Despite the parallels that can be drawn to the Strikeforce world middleweight champion, though, Daniels is quick to point out that he is his own man and is determined to carve out a unique legacy in the martial arts fight world.

“I don’t try to be the next anybody,” said Daniels. “I look to be greater than Cung and surpass anyone who’s been considered at the top of their game. I try to live up to who I am and I expect great things from myself.”

It was at the young age of five that Daniels became inspired by his father, Frank, a seasoned martial artist and Sport Karate competitor, to study Kenpo and, later, to test his skills against other Karate players. From Ireland to Australia, Switzerland, Hungary, and Germany, he has since traveled the world to face and defeat top-ranked opponents.

Daniels joined the ranks of the WCL in 2006 and amassed a record of 18-0 over the course of three seasons with the league’s Los Angeles Stars team. Earlier this month, he captained his squad to a season championship.

“I still haven’t had any challenges or anything like that so I decided to come over to MMA and see how good I really am.”

Daniels’ opponent, Metcalf, brings to the cage a three-fight win streak. He is a product of Modesto, California’s AAA Academy of Kickboxing, the training center that spawned 2003 K-1 North America tournament champion, Carter Williams.

Tickets for “Melendez vs. Thomson,” priced from $30, are on sale at the HP Pavilion box office (408-287-7070) as well as at all Ticketmaster locations (408-998-TIXS), Ticketmaster online (www.ticketmaster.com), and on Strikeforce’s official website (www.Strikeforceusa.net).

Strikeforce World Lightweight (155 lb. limit) Champion, Gilbert “El Nino” Melendez (14-1), will defend his crown against number one contender and Bay Area arch-rival, Josh “The Punk” Thomson (14-2), in the main event of Friday’s Strikeforce affair.

In another championship showdown, Bobby Southworth (8-5) will put his Strikeforce World Light Heavyweight (205 lb. limit) title on the line in a rematch with Anthony “El Toro” Ruiz (20-10). Ruiz was declared the winner of their initial meeting on November 16, 2007 after a cut Southworth had sustained during the fight prompted the ringside physician to order a stoppage at the :52 mark of the second round.

Joe “Diesel” Riggs (27-10) will battle rising star Luke Stewart (5-1) in a 178 lb. limit catch weight fight. Stewart was originally slated to face “Mr. International” Shonie Carter. A hand injury, however, forced Carter to withdraw from the contest last week.

Lightweight (155 lb. limit) Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu stud Nam Phan (14-4) will attempt to hand knockout artist Billy Evangelista (6-0) the first loss of his career.

Making the fifth start of her professional mixed martial arts career, Cung Le female protégé, Elaina “Beef” Maxwell (2-2), will take on Miesha Tate (1-1).

HP Pavilion doors will open at 6 PM for “Melendez vs. Thomson” and the first preliminary bout will begin at 6:30 PM. The live HDNet telecast of the event will start at 7:30 PM PST/10:30 PM EST and the main card will commence at 8 PM.

About Strikeforce:
Strikeforce is a world-class mixed martial arts cage fight promotion which, on Friday, March 10, 2006, made history with its “Shamrock vs. Gracie” event, the first sanctioned mixed martial arts fight card in California state history. The star-studded extravaganza, which pitted legendary champion Frank Shamrock against Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt Cesar Gracie at San Jose’s HP Pavilion, played host to a sold-out, record crowd of 18,265. Since 1995, Strikeforce has been the exclusive provider of martial arts programming for ESPN and, after 12 years of success as a leading, world championship kickboxing promotion, the company unveiled its mixed martial arts series with “Shamrock vs. Gracie.” Since then, it has co-produced the first SHOWTIME PPV mixed martial arts event in history with its world championship “Shamrock vs. Baroni” card on June 22, 2007.

If you saw the UFC “Ultimate Iceman” special on SpikeTV, then you saw Chuck Liddell’s brother Dan on the show. He is a big dude. 265lbs. Dan Liddell will be making his pro MMA debut at PureCombat: Hard Core on August 15 in Visalia, California.

HARD CORE is coming and they’re not going to play nice!…August 15th at the Visalia Convention Center…with the main event sure to appease a hungry crowd. Emanuel “Hard Core Kid” Newton, who fought Kyacey Uscola for the Gladiator Challenge Light Heavy Weight belt and won and has also fought in the IFL, is fighting UFC Veteran and Ultimate Fighter Season 1 competitor, Lodune Sincaid. Emanuel is on a 6 fight winning streak, and is known for his love of slamming his opponent to the mat as many times possible. He is equally efficient in his striking and his ground game while Lodune has fought guys such as Nathan Quarry, Kyacey Uscola, James Irvin and Doug Marshall. Lodune is sure to push Emanuel to his limits to see what he’s really made of.

Scott Lighty, who styles his striking after his training partner Chuck Liddell, has an impressive record of 23-8-2 (6 KO’s) in the K-1, steps into our cage for the second time to further his 2-0 MMA career. You may have seen him at our event Feb. 29th in Visalia where he devastated Paul Mince in the main event with his vicious strikes and overbearing ground and pound that ended the night with Lights Out for Paul.

http://www.mefeedia.com/entry/scott-lighty-vs-paul-mince/7676614

We have an equally exciting under card with another one of Chuck Liddell’s teammates, Cruz Gomez. With only one fight under his belt since his 6 year absence from the cage and after losing to a controversial decision against Isaac de Jesus in May at the Bring The Pain event in Stockton, he’s very eager to take a fight and finish it. Also we have debuting in our cage, Dan Liddell..and at 265 lbs his opponent will have to be equally massive to go against his gigantic stature and overpowering strength.

Don’t miss a night of explosive mixed martial arts action as 20 of the state’s best fighters as well as stars on the rise, steps into the cage at the Visalia Convention Center Friday, August 15th. The doors open at 6pm and fights start at 7:30pm. For tickets, call 559-713-4040 or go online at www.purecombatmma.com.

The weighins for this event will be at the Cellar Door in downtown Visalia on the corner of Main St. and Court. Come early and be a part of the filming as Knockout TV brings their High Definition cameras capturing the crowd and the fighters as they prepare for the next evenings event. The weighing in officially starts at 8PM but come early and be a part of the excitement.

We will be having an after party in the Ballroom of the Convention Center immediately following the fights…There will be full bars and food available and the music from the Central Valley’s own DJ Chris…..With a special $1000 bonus being given away to the fighter who had the “Best Move of the Night”. We just don’t want the night to end but to have the opportunity for everyone to hang out, talk, dance and maybe get a picture with your favorite fighter of the night.

Our schedule of events for the remainder of 2008:

Sept 27 Irvine Bren Event Center

Oct 17 Stockton Memorial Civic Auditorium

Dec 5 Bren Event Center Irvine

PureCombat has great plans for our beloved California and hope that you come out and see the show. If you have a myspace account, please add us as a friend and spread the word that “For great fights, entertainment and to party into the night”…..go see PureCombat…..

Written by Sal Carrillo
Boston, MA – Fans once again packed the Shriners Auditorium Friday night for the third installment of World Championship Fighting. The night was filled with action packed fights from start to finish and a special autograph session with UFC Fighters: Marcus “the Irish Hand Grenade” Davis, Kenny “KenFlo” Florian, Jorge “El Conquistador” Rivera, Joe “J-Lau” Lauzon, and Internet Legend Sean “The Gladiator” Gannon the only man to beat Kimbo Slice. The night’s action included UFC veteran Dan “The Upgrade” Lauzon and Brendan Hoxie engaging in a battle that continuously saw Lauzon get the better of the exchanges. Not one for backing down, Hoxie displayed incredible resiliency and was able to endure the punishment being dished out by Lauzon. Lauzon was able to finish the fight late in the second round by TKO improving his record to 10-2 and extending his win streak to six straight.

In the night’s other featured bout, local favorites Mike Campbell and Rich Moskowitz faced each other in one of the longest and most electric stare-downs with both fighters motioning to the crowd and jawing at each other. At one point Rich Moskowitz removed his mouthpiece to exchange some words with Campbell before the bout started. The fight began with both fighters coming out looking to impose their will, with Campbell getting the better of the Moskowitz on his feet. Campbell then landed a crushing right hand that floored Moskowitz and allowed Campbell the opportunity to close in and land punches from the top until the referee jumped in to stop the fight.

World Championship Fighting promoter Joe Cavallaro said about the event, “We are so excited to see the overwhelming support from our fans. We couldn’t be any happier with the crowds we see here every single show and with the amazing fights we’re treated to each time out. It’s really a thrill for us to bring this action to the fans here in Massachusetts.” The event drew between 3,000 and 3,400 fans and once again had the fans talking about the fights all the way out to the parking lots. As a testiment to the excitement being generated by World Championship Fighting, the event was covered by a trio of major media outlets including ESPN, NBCSports.com, and HDNet. This marks the first time a local New England MMA promotion has been covered by such a prestigious group of media. In addition to media coverage, WBCN The Rock of Boston was on hand with the WBCN street team to support World Championship Fighting. WCF and WBCN announced a partnership between the two companies earlier this month. World Championship Fighting would like to thank all of fighters, fans, media and its great sponsors for making the event such an overwhelming success. Mark your calendars now for our upcoming event on September 19th!

We’ll see you at the fights!

Official Results:
Dan Bonnell def Barrington Douse via Decision Rd 2
John Benoit def Travis Lerchen via Split Decision Rd 3
Ken Stone def Ethan Kean via TKO Rd 1
Dan O’Keefe def Garth Krane via TKO
Jon Jones def Parker Porter via KO Rd 1
Jim Bermudez def Chris Grandmaison via Armbar Submission
Mike Campbell def Rich Moskowitz via TKO Rd 1
Dan Lauzon def Brendan Hoxie via TKO Rd 2

Although many saw the fight as a unanimous decision, the official scoring had Evan Tanner winning one round. Although Evan was able to take Kendall Grove down, the reach advantage of Grove proved to be too much for Tanner. Kendall used his long legs to land good knees. I hope to see Evan Tanner back in action though, he is a true warrior, and despite being 12 years older than Grove, and living a harder life, he managed to last all 3 rounds and fought all the way through.

Other results from the show include Amir Sadollah scoring a 1st round armbar submission victory over CB Dollaway.

Diego Sanchez defeated Luigi Fioravanti by TKO (strikes) – Round 3
Matt Riddle defeated Dante Rivera by unanimous decision
Spencer Fisher defeated Jeremy Stephens by unanimous decision
Dustin Hazelett defeated Josh Burkman by submission (arm bar) – Round 2
Drew McFedries defeated Marvin Eastman by TKO (strikes) – Round 1
Dean Lister defeated Jeremy Horn by submission (guillotine choke) – Round 1
Matt Brown defeated Matt Arroyo by TKO (strikes) – Round 2
Rob Kimmons defeated Rob Yundt by submission (guillotine choke) – Round 1

I’m not 100% sure where this fight took place (Xplosion 17?), but it looks like a nice way to end a fight. However, is this a knockout or did the guys toes poke him in the eye?

Amir Sadollah just defeated CB Dollaway by tapout (armbar) in round 1 to become “The Ultimate Fighter” from season 7 of the the SpikeTV reality show. CB Dolloway’s arm looked to be at the breaking point, and he tapped on Amir’s leg. CB protested the stoppage, trying to claim he didn’t tap.

ULTIMATE FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP® HEADS TO ATLANTA FOR
UFC 88: BREAKTHROUGH
CHUCK “THE ICEMAN” LIDDELL vs. “SUGAR” RASHAD EVANS
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2008 LIVE FROM PHILIPS ARENA

Tickets On Sale Saturday, June 21 at 12pm ET

Las Vegas, NV (USA) – Home to some of the greatest fighters in mixed martial arts, the UFC® light heavyweight division is without question the most competitive in the sport. On Saturday, September 6th, two of the weight class’ best – legendary former champion Chuck “The Iceman” Liddell and unbeaten rising star “Sugar” Rashad Evans – will finally meet in the Ultimate Fighting Championship® organization’s historic first trip to Atlanta for UFC 88: BREAKTHROUGH, live at Philips Arena.

“Chuck Liddell vs. Rashad Evans is a battle between the former champion looking to get a shot at reclaiming his crown and the undefeated contender looking to earn his first title shot,” said Dana White, UFC President. “Chuck is a great wrestler and Rashad has shown improved striking skills so there is no way of telling what will happen when two fighters of this caliber collide. This is going to be another incredible fight, and I am so excited to bring UFC 88 Atlanta.”

Originally scheduled to face off against each other on June’s UFC 85 card in London, a torn hamstring sidelined Liddell and forced him to withdraw from his bout with Evans. But if anything, the additional wait has steeled the resolve of both men to not only win this fight, but to end it in spectacular fashion for the loyal UFC fans of Georgia.

UFC 88 marks the organization’s first event in the state since Augusta’s UFC 13 show in May of 1997, and it’s first ever event in Atlanta. To kick off this inaugural event, White stated he will hold a UFC 88 press conference with Liddell and Evans in downtown Atlanta next Tuesday, June 24, and that later that day, the two fighters will attend an autograph session at Lenox Mall from 2 to 4pm ET.

Tickets for UFC 88: BREAKTHROUGH will go on sale Sunday, June 21 at 12 Noon ET and will be priced at $604, $404, $254, $154 and $79. Tickets for UFC 88 will be available at Philip’s Arena Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, online at ticketmaster.com or by calling 404.249.6400.

UFC® Fight Club™ members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets to this event Wednesday, June 18 at 10am ET via the website www.ufc.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Friday, June 20 starting at 10am ET. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through www.ufc.com.

UFC 88: BREAKTHROUGH is available live on pay-per-view at 10 p.m. EST/7 p.m. PST on iN DEMAND, DIRECTV, DISH Network, TVN, Bell ExpressVu, Shaw Communications and Viewer’s Choice Canada for a suggested retail price of $44.95 for standard definition or high-definition broadcasts (where available).

One of the biggest stars in American sports, Chuck Liddell (21-5) is a fighter who needs no introduction to fight fans. Fresh off a thrilling three round win over Wanderlei Silva last December in a fight which easily lived up to over four years of expectations, the 38-year-old – owner of knockout wins over a Who’s Who of 205-pound stalwarts, including Randy Couture (twice), Tito Ortiz (twice), Renato Sobral (twice), Jeremy Horn, and Kevin Randleman – continues on his quest to regain his UFC Light Heavyweight Championship from Quinton “Rampage” Jackson; but to get there, he has to get by Evans, only the third undefeated fighter Liddell has ever faced.

“I’m excited to be back in training, and I’m excited to have this Rashad fight back on – I’m going to put pressure on him and put him
down, because, unfortunately everyone has to have their first loss,” said Liddell. “It’s been a white since I fought on the East coast, so I’m looking forward to going out there and giving this knockout to Atlanta.”

Evans (16-0-1) burst on the UFC scene in style in 2005 when he won the heavyweight division of season two of The Ultimate Fighter®, winning four fights en route to the title. Dropping back to his natural weight class at 205 pounds, he has kept the momentum going with five wins and just one controversial draw against former light heavyweight champion Tito Ortiz in July of 2007. Among his victims are standouts Stephan Bonnar and Jason Lambert, and in his most recent bout at UFC 78 last November, he pounded out a three round decision win over previously unbeaten British star Michael “The Count” Bisping. Now Evans has his sights on taking down a UFC icon on September 6th.

“I’m honored to fight Chuck, it’s good to fight someone who has been where you want to be. This is going to be a tough fight though, I know someone is gonna be finished, and I think it’ll be Chuck,” said Evans. “I’m excited to go to Atlanta, I’ve heard great things about the city, I’ve never been there before, but I know there’s no better way to experience a place than to have thousands of people all there to see you fight.”

The remaining bouts for UFC 88 will be announced in the near future. All bouts live and subject to change. For further information on the UFC visit ufc.com or uk.ufc.com or ufcespanol.com.

With all the hype around this episode, it better be good.

Wow, this is a great match to counter the Affliction: Banned MMA show on the same night. Which one will most fans be watching LIVE? Dave Meltzer broke the news earlier today that Anderson Silva would be fighting James Irvin in the main event on July 19th. This fight will be a 205lb (light heavyweight) fight, and will be Anderson Silva’s first fight at 205lbs.

This could actually be a dangerous fight for Anderson Silva, if the fight stays standing, Silva could get his chin tested by Irvin. However, regardless of the outcome, Anderson Silva will retain his UFC middleweight championship, as no titles are on the line July 19th.

In case you have forgotten about the legendary Yamma, here is some video of two MMA legends (Mark Kerr and Oleg Taktarov) past their prime.