NFC 6 "Night of Champions" Preview

 NFC 6 presents Night of Champions on February 4 at the Hocking College Student Center in Nelsonville, Ohio. The 15 bout pro/am card features some of the rising prospects in the Midwest.   The mega-card has a total of 7 title fights on the line.  You won’t find a show with more championship gold at stake than Night of Champions!  If you can’t be there to see it live don’t worry, because the GFL Combat Sports Network is airing it live on pay-per-view.

In the main event, TJ Wash (7-0) fights Rob Hanna (11-2) for the NFC Lightweight Championship.  This bout could determine the true champion in the amateur ranks at 155 lb in the state of Ohio.  Hanna is a current champion of 4 other organizations within the Buckeye State.  Hanna is on a 4-fight win streak, with the last 3 victories being for a title.  Hanna has a lot of big fight experience and this should assist him when fighting the upstart, Wash.  For Wash, he has never been defeated and looks to add the multi-time champion, Hanna, to his win column.  In fact, Wash has stopped all of his 7 opponents, either by KO or submission, so this main event should be “fight of the night”.  Whoever comes out the winner here can truly be called Ohio’s best 155 lb amateur MMA fighter. 

In the co-main event it is Shane Holbert (3-1) taking on Zack Woltz (6-2) for the NFC Middleweight Championship. For Holbert, he has never been in a fight that goes the distance.  He fights with a high risk/high reward style that has seen him finish 3 of his 4 opponents.  A well-rounded fighter, he will look to get off to a quick start and test Woltz early on.  Woltz has fought at light heavyweight, including having championship experience, so the cut down to middleweight should pay dividends in the strength department.  Expect Woltz to look to use his physical advantage to shut down Holbert’s striking and grappling by wearing out the smaller man and trying to put him on his back. 

Other championship bouts will be in the Bantamweight, Featherweight, Welterweight, and Light Heavyweight men’s divisions, along with the 135 lb women’s division. 

Don’t miss this electrifying event featuring some of the top regional mixed martial arts talents from around the Midwest.  There will be plenty of gold to go around as 7 titles will be up for grabs.  Watch all of the fights LIVE on February 4 as NFC 6 presents Night of Champions on pay-per-view exclusively at GFL.tv!

IZW January 28 Episode on GFL.tv Review

 IZW presented another show for free with its ongoing television series on GFL.tv this past Saturday night. All signs point to Violent Valentine on February 11 (which can be ordered here http://www.gfl.tv/Events/Fight/Wrestling/Impact_Zone_Wrestling__Violent_Valentine/1348) but there is still some serious business that needs to be taken care of and sorted out in the next two weeks leading up to the iPPV.

To open the show, Brandon Bishop was summarily dissed by Double D in a backstage encounter when D decided not to align with the new IZW Commissioner. Bishop then went on the offensive and threated Double D with another confrontation by the Mystery Man which would be forthcoming.

In the opening match, Double D versus Kevin Morgan was ruled a no contest after once again the Mystery Man interfered in Double D's match. This time when the lights turned back on, Double D was handcuffed to the top rope. The referee called for the bell, but Morgan was not dissuaded as he kicked Double D square in the face, knocking the former Impact Division Champion out cold. This makes three weeks in a row where Double D has been tormented by the man in the dark. Although you can't blame the man in the dark as he has been able to secure an Impact Division Title Match for his underhanded tactics against the two-time Superstar of the Year in Double D.

Brandon Bishop then tried to convince Jermaine Johnson that it was good for his career to continue to tag team with Aaron Neil. Johnson didn't agree, but nevertheless a match was set for later in the night for Johnson and Neil versus The Future Hall of Famers where something of value would be at stake.

Erica and Miss Diss Lexia came out to the ring to speak to the fans when Starr and Bobby Star interrupted. Starr informed the two that they would square off against each other later in the evening and Starr would be the special referee. It was a twist that Erica and Miss Diss Lexia were not expecting.

Rage Logan, with Damien Morte, gave a backstage promo that showed the new champ is ready to take things to the next level in 2012. Wearing the gold has certainly raised Logan's confidence as you could see the determination in his eyes when he talked about his reign, both present and future, as the IZW Impact Division Champion. He would get that chance to prove himself once again later in the night as he was scheduled for the main event against Randy Price.

Next up was one half of the IZW Tag Team Champions, Gary Tool versus Soto Myagi. Tool's tag team partner, Bernie D is still sidelined from an injury in 2011, so Tool was in a rare singles match. Myagi had his moments, but Tool proved to have too much experience and ring time as the cagey veteran defeated the man from the Orient with a devastating power slam.

Jermaine Johnson and Aaron Neil teamed up to take on The Future Hall of Famers with a #1 tag team Contenders' Match on the line to take place at Violent Valentine. The most unique site was when Wage and Neil locked up like two Brahma bulls. Both men are physical specimens and you could see the impact with which they slammed into each other and the after effects of the damage as both men took something out one another. The pinnacle moment of the match came when Jermaine Johnson held the monster Wage up for several seconds in a vertical suplex and then dumped him to the mat. Johnson then launched Rose off the top rope with another variation of a suplex sending Rose flying across the ring. For good measure, Johnson did a nip up to his feet showing just how athletically gifted he is. Johnson then followed all of that up with a Real Drill on Wage. Neil took offense and he and Johnson got into a shouting match which let Eric Rose recover and land a perfectly placed spinning kick on Johnson's jaw setting up the pinfall for the Future Hall of Famers. The post-match saw a wild brawl between Johnson and Neil that had them fighting all over the arena.

After Johnson and Neil fought their way to the back area, Eric Rose and Wage re-entered the ring as the new #1 contenders' for the tag belts. Gary Tool came to the ring and a heated exchange ensued as there was a two on one beat down on Tool by Rose and Wage. Randy Price came from backstage wielding a chair to make the save for Tool and chased the Future Hall of Famers out of the ring. Because of the save, Tool accepted Price's request to help him defend the tag titles at Violent Valentine on February 11 against the FHF.

In the oddest match of the evening, tag team partners, Erica and Miss Diss Lexia wrestled each other. The two women gave it their all and competed 100% against one another, but with Starr as the referee, something peculiar was bound to happen. Starr annoyed both Erica and Miss Diss Lexia throughout the bout until both women had enough and pushed Starr to the mat, where they were both then promptly disqualified. Erica and Miss Diss Lexia showed that they are two of the best female wrestlers in the greater Oklahoma territory as before the bout ended, they put on an action packed wrestling match.

In the final bout of the night, Randy Price defeated Impact Division Champion Rage Logan by disqualification. It was a great match between the two, and Price was even able to withstand Damien Morte's interference. The end came when Price had Logan in his clutches ready to give him the Piledriver 1-2-3 which would have ended Logan's reign as champion. But before Price could execute the move, Wage and Eric Rose came to the ring to settle the score from earlier in the night when Price went after them with a steel chair. They were able to double team Price and that made the referee call for the bell, giving Price the victory but not the title. This will no doubt add more fuel to the fire for Violent Valentine when Price and Tool battle Wage and Rose with championship gold on the line.

Not to be outdone, Aaron Neil and Jermaine Johnson made another appearance in the Impact Zone. They had still been fighting from earlier in the night and continued their slobber knocker in front of the fans. The fans for their part new they were seeing something amazing as they shouted "this is awesome" with every punch Neil and Johnson threw. The action finally ended up back in the ring, where Johnson countered the Real Drill with a facebuster that knocked Neil out. Johnson then got a ladder from the outside, but it was the wrong move to make as Neil grabbed Johnson and gave him the Real Drill on top of the ladder sending Johnson's body crashing against the unforgiving hard steel. This impromptu scuffle at the end of the evening was a precursor to what fans can expect on February 11 at Violent Valentine, when Aaron Neil defends his IZW Heavyweight Championship against Jermaine Johnson in a TLC Match.

TaKe-On Productions - "Battle at the 7 Train XI" Review

Muay Thai is back as TaKe-On Productions presented Battle at the 7 Train XI, full contact Muay Thai at the 7 Train Theatre in Flushing, New York.  The card featured at hotly anticipated main event, along with the semifinals of the 155 lb “Rising Stars” 8-man tournament.  If you love the striking game, this is the event for you.  TaKe-On always puts together great Muay Thai events that feature high level striking with blistering kicks, punches, knees and elbows.  

In the main event, Greg Rowe (10-3) from Five Points Academy defeated Chris Mauceri (7-4) from Black & Blue MMA via judges’ decision after five grueling rounds in the 147 lb division.  Both Rowe and Mauceri landed punishing strikes throughout the bout, but it was Rowe’s ability to maintain a high pace that allowed him to pull away in the later rounds.  Rowe connected with big shots throughout the bout, while Mauceri became less busy the longer the fight went.  Rowe was very accurate with his strikes and racked up points that gave him the decision.  For Mauceri, he showed great heart and determination, even in defeat, and he was never close to getting knocked out, although he absorbed a tremendous amount of punishment. 

In one of the 155 lb tournament fights,  Andrilo “Jr” Suarez (3-0) from American Killer Bees in Queens, New York beat James Gregory (4-1) from Cool Hearts, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to set up one half of the finals bracket for later this year.   Suarez looked dominant in the bout and remains undefeated heading into the biggest fight of his young career.

In the second bout in the 155 lb tournament, Freddy Cheung (2-1) from Sitan Gym in Queens defeated Akio Nakasone (2-1) from The Wat in New York City via split decision to advance to the finals where he will lock horns with Suarez.   

The only way to watch this thrilling card that will no doubt have some great knockouts is to order it exclusively through the GFL Combat Sports Network at GFL.tv.  Be sure to catch all of the hard hitting action as TaKe-On Productions presents Battle at the 7 Train XI.  Order now!

Cut Throat MMA - "Invasion 5 Aurora" Review

Cut Throat MMA returned with another stellar card as Invasion 5 Aurora took place at La Sierra in Aurora, IL.   The 10-bout card featured 2 Muay Thai fights and 8 MMA bouts including a 185 lb title fight.  Cut Throat MMA has quickly established itself as one of the hottest MMA organizations in the Midwest and is a breeding ground for the sports future stars.  It was a great evening of fighting as 9 of the 10 bouts ended in KO or submission. 

In the main event, Ryan Kirwan (3-3) defeated Sam Ferguson (2-2-1) via TKO in round one for the vacant Cut Throat MMA Middleweight Title.  Kirwan pressed the action in the standup early on as Ferguson tried to get the fight to the mat where he could work his grappling.  Ferguson finally got the tie up and landed some solid knees in the clinch and finally landed a takedown on the brawling Kirwan.  Kirwan reversed the position and landed on top during a quick scramble where he began to throw hard punches.  Ferguson looked for an armbar, but Kirwan was able to defend against the submission and then continued his onslaught of punches.  Finally the referee stepped in to call a halt to the match and Ryan Kirwan was crowned the new Cut Throat MMA Middleweight Champion after a spectacular fight.  

In the co-main event, Eddie Castillo defeated David Hammons via TKO second into round one to retain his Cut Throat MMA Heavyweight Title.  Castillo landed a few strikes on his feet that hurt Hammons, especially a hard uppercut that found its home.  Hammons tried for a takedown to get away from Castillo’s strikes but ended up getting stuffed and hit with knees that dropped him to the mat.  Castillo followed up the knees with several punches and the fight was over.

In the Muay Thai portion of the show, Axel Mendez defeated Mike Girton in round one, and Dorothy Schultz defeated Katie Fry in round two.  

Don’t miss this exciting mixed 10-bout card.  Cut Throat MMA brings you another fully loaded card with Invasion 5 Aurora.  Watch the hottest Midwest MMA prospects compete in the Cut Throat MMA cage.  Order this event now, exclusively through the GFL Combat Sport Network at GFL.tv.

NAAFS - "Caged Fury 16" Review

 

The North American Allied Fight Series (NAAFS) made its debut on GFL.tv with Caged Fury 16 at the Morgantown Events Center in Morgantown, West Virginia.  NAAFS is based in Ohio, and Caged Fury 16 was the promotion’s first venture into the Mountain State.  The card had 9 of 11 bouts end with either KO or submission and the main event was highlighted by a UFC veteran.  

In the main event, former UFC fighter Sean “Big Sexy” McCorkle (14-2) defeated Mike Gordon (4-1) by arm choke in round one in a super heavyweight bout.  McCorkle started off aggressive landing a stiff jab followed by a takedown and pass to half guard.  From that position, McCorkle moved to mount and secured the choke while Gordon could only tapout.  It was a great win for McCorkle who has reeled off 4 straight wins since his departure from the UFC.  A couple more wins like this and McCorkle will probably be getting called back up to fight for the UFC later this year. 

In the co-main event, Bellator veteran Joey Holt (10-5) defeated Nathan Hall (6-5) via TKO in the first round of a lightweight fight.  It was an exciting bout while it lasted, as Hall tried for a guillotine in the standup, but Holt shook off the attempt and slammed Hall to the mat.  From Hall’s guard, Holt landed a couple stiff punches and the referee called a halt to the bout as Hall was covering up.  Holt’s ground and pound was great as he showed he is still primed and ready for the top organizations.  

In other action, former NAAFS Champion, Josh Stansbury (13-4) defeated John Opfar (10-5) via guillotine choke in round one.  It was a strong showing for the former champion.  Expect Stansbury’s name to be in the mix for future title shots at the light heavyweight championship. 

With 9 out of 11 fights ending by KO or submission this is an explosive card that will whet the appetite of any MMA fan.  Be sure to catch all of the action from this exciting card as NAAFS presents NAAFS: Caged Fury 16 exclusively at GFL.tv.

Interview with IZW Superstar Double D

“For IZW to go mainstream would be the ultimate dream come true.”

Nobody illustrates the fire and passion of Oklahoma’s Impact Zone Wrestling (IZW) like Double D.  Voted Superstar of the Year by the fans in back to back years (2010, 2011), Double D has become one of the most popular wrestlers in the Mid-South territory, and has quickly become the Peoples’ Champion in IZW.

Like most professionals, the former Impact Division Champion got the wrestling bug early in life.  “For as long as I can remember, I've been a fan of professional wrestling. I have an older brother and some of my earliest memories are of the two of us watching wrestling on Saturday mornings. I already knew then, that I wanted to be a pro wrestler when I grew up. I played baseball and basketball, but nothing caught my heart like pro wrestling,” Double D said.

Like any pro wrestler chasing a dream on the Independent circuit, Double D is focused on being able to work for an organization that is seen on a national level.    “My ultimate goal in professional wrestling is to make my living through it. Growing up my goal was always the WWE. That goal is still there and it's something I work toward, literally, every day of my life,” Double D mentioned.  But with IZW’s partnership with the GFL Combat Sports Network and a worldwide broadcasting deal on GFL.tv the opportunity to work for a company that is expanding literally on a weekly basis, the dream of being a full time professional wrestler might be closer to home.  “I would love for IZW to really take off. I feel like we have a very strong product that measures up to any other company in the country,” Double D continued. 

“I think the fact that IZW is able to be seen all over the world on GFL.tv is huge. People need to see this show. If you are a fan of professional wrestling, I guarantee you'll love IZW. It also helps the individual wrestlers get their names out in the world and possibly be seen by people who normally wouldn't get to see us unless they live in this region. Nothing but positives in my opinion. It really gives IZW a chance to really go for it. It's beyond exciting to be a part of,” Double D added.

It’s been a whirlwind for Double D, who’s only been in the business for a few years.  “I began training in 2009. I trained under Tom Jones in Oklahoma City, which is actually where I met Erica for the first time. She started training a couple of weeks after me. I continued my training with IZW when I started working there. Being trained by Tom Jones really gave me a firm grasp on the basics, but when I went to IZW is when I really began to learn a lot and come into my own.  For anyone wanting to get into professional wrestling, I would very highly recommend IZW's Impact Academy,” Double D said.

Double D’s quick ascension into the top echelon of Independent wrestling is a rarity in a business that is famous for being hard to break in to and even harder to excel in.  D’s career speaks to his focus, determination, grappling skills and ability to connect with the fans in a way that not everybody can.  It’s even more incredible when you consider he won IZW Superstar of the Year and Most Popular Superstar in his first full year as a professional.   Like every success story, there is no magic recipe.  It usually comes down to hard work; doing the things that your peers won’t and grinding ahead no matter what obstacles lay in front of you.

“There are a lot of challenging things that come with being in this business. There's the travel. Time away from family. The injuries of course. Every time you step into that ring you're basically putting your life on the line. Injuries happen often. It's just the nature of the beast. You have to give 100% of yourself to this business if you want to succeed. You have to eat it, breathe it, and live it. To say it's a lifestyle change is an understatement,” Double D replied.  

Regardless of the difficulties that each wrestler must navigate around, Double D is confident in himself and his opportunity with IZW.  “I see myself on the rise in IZW. Since day one, I've busted my ass to make something of myself. It hasn't been easy given my size. This is a big man's game. However, what I lack in size, I more than make up for in heart, determination, and grit,” Double D said. 

D sports a 6’1” frame with a wiry build which is a lot more durable than some wrestlers who have bulging muscles and are ripped to shreds.  If you think Double D is a bit on the lean side now, you should have seen him in 2009.  “When I first broke in to this business, I was only 130 pounds. Now I'm 195 pounds. My training regimen is basically a 24/7 deal. I'm building size, so I'm eating a high protein diet. I basically eat as a job now, not because of hunger.  I've really never felt better health-wise in my life,” Double D remarked.

There’s no doubt that Double D has been blessed to work with some great wrestlers during his time with IZW.  In 2010 his feud with “The Natural Born Leader” Johnny Z won Feud of the Year.  It was a rivalry that set the territory on fire, as at the time, Johnny Z was the most hated heel in Oklahoma.  It got so violent between the two that Double D’s valet, Erica, was thrown into the mix and a Steel Cage Match between Double D and Johnny Z was needed to decide Erica’s future and end the blood feud between the two alpha males.  Then in 2011, Double D feuded with then IZW Heavyweight Champion, Jermaine Johnson over the top championship in the company.  Johnson was ultimately successful in defending his title, but Double D pushed Johnson to the limit in a tremendous match at Halloween Hangover, (available On Demand at GFL.tv).  Double D ended 2011 on a high note by defeating former NWA World Champion and WWE and ROH vet, Brent Albright, in a No Holds Barred/No DQ Match at Chaotic Christmas (available On Demand at GFL.tv).  The victory was a huge career moment for Double D as it was the only singles loss Albright suffered during his IZW tenure.  All signs point to 2012 as being Double D’s biggest year as a professional wrestler.  For fans, that’s a great thing.  

So far the New Year has produced more questions than answers as a feud with current Impact Division Champion Rage Logan has been overshadowed by a Mystery Man who keeps sticking his nose in Double D’s business.  It started on the January 14 edition of IZW (available On Demand at GFL.tv) in the main event, when Double D was about to deliver a top rope cross-body onto Logan and win the championship when all of the lights suddenly went off in the building.  Double D was then blindsided and attacked in the middle of the ring.  Once the lights returned, Double D was laid out in the middle of the ring, unconscious.  The trend continued on the January 21 edition (available On Demand at GFL.tv) when Double D was wrestling Kevin Morgan.  The lights went out again when Double D had the advantage and when they returned Morgan seized the opportunity and hit Double D with a choke slam for the pinfall.  IZW Commissioner Brandon Bishop made a Triple Threat Match for IZW’s next iPPV, Violent Valentine, on February 11.  It will be Rage Logan defending his title against Double D and the Mystery Man.

For Double D, life is pretty good right now.

“Every time I hear the chants, feel the electricity from the fans, it pushes me harder and harder towards my goals. There's nothing like it in the world. I absolutely love the fans. My ultimate goal in IZW is to become the IZW Heavyweight Champion. That's the ultimate honor. To all of my fans out there, I honestly want to say ‘thank you’. It's because of the fans that we exist as pro wrestlers. To any potential fans, I suggest you check out IZW every Saturday night. Live on GFL.tv. Or if you're in the area come on over to 1009 SW F in Lawton, Oklahoma. The show starts at 7 pm Central time. And definitely make sure you check out our next iPPV, Violent Valentine, Saturday February 11^th, 7 pm Central time. Together we can change the world of professional wrestling. IZW is the company that is going to do just that,” Double D concluded.

Combat Sport Challenge (CSC) 32 - "Battleware Fighting Championship" Review

Virginia's #1 hybrid promotion featuring MMA and Muay Thai returned as Combat Sports Challenge (CSC) partnered with Battleware Technologies to present CSC 32 Battleware Fighting Championships on in front of a lively crowd at the Crown Plaza - Richmond West in Richmond, Virginia. The event was a mixed event featuring pro/am fights in MMA and Muay Thai and was not stop action for the entire 14-bout card.

In the main event, on the MMA side, Ring of Combat veteran Dwayne Shelton (10-9-1) of Team Combat in Virginia defeated Ryan Mcintosh (9-18) from Cincinnati, Ohio via submission (knee injury) in round one.  It was an awkward end as both fighters were exchanging strikes as Mcintosh tried to pull guard, but the attempt was shaken off by Shelton.  When Mcintosh landed, his knee popped and he tapped out.  For Shelton this was a good win as he came out of the fight without a scratch on him and will be able to fight fairly soon again. For Mcintosh, this was a tough draw as he was a late replacement and showed heart just taking the fight on short notice in Shelton’s backyard.  Hopefully his knee will heal up soon and he will be back in the ring in no time too. 

In the co-main event, Francois Ambang (2-3-1) from Virginia defeated Anthony Jamison (0-2) by rear naked choke in round two.   Ambang looked chiseled out of granite and proved to be too fast and explosive for Jamison to keep up with.  Unfortunately, it was a questionable call by the referee that led to the end of the fight.  The referee restarted the fight in the center of the ring on the ground, after an accidental eye poke, but allowed Ambang to grab a choke before action was started again.  Jamison tapped out immediately and Ambang was awarded the submission victory in a bizarre display of circumstances. 

In Muay Thai action, Ani Hilditch out of the Combat Sports Center in Virginia defeated Robin Reese via unanimous decision and in doing so won the WKA Women’s Championship. 

For fans of the combat sports, this hybrid card is for you. Be sure to catch all of the action as CSC presents CSC 32 Battleware Fighting Championships exclusively at GFL.tv.

Epic Fighting 10 Review

 

Epic Fighting 10 returned to GFL.tv at the Four Points Sheraton in San Diego, California.  It was a great night of fights and definitely showed that amateur MMA, especially in California is thriving and no doubt some of the fighters on these cards will be making a name for themselves as professionals in the near future. 

In the main event, Marvin Madariaga (4-0) from Blackhouse Gym remained perfect as he defeated Daniel Valdez (0-3) from Pinnacle MMA by TKO in Round 1 in a featherweight scrap.   Madariaga, trains out of the same gym as UFC Middleweight Champion, Anderson Silva, and it showed as it took less than a minute for the fight to end.  Madariaga pressed the action early and landed several strikes before Valdez could respond.  Madariaga looks to be a real terror on the amateur scene and should turn pro by the end of this year, if not sooner.  

The co-main event Keith Carson (7-4-1) defeated Sean Najjar (1-2) via TKO in Round 2 in a bantamweight tussle.  Carson fights out of the Sports Academy/Aguirre’s Fighting System while Najjar comes out of the Undisputed camp.  It was a back and forth brawl with both 135 lb fighters show signs of promise.  Carson was just a bit crisper in his attacks and landed cleaner shots that eventually were able to stop a gritty Najjar in the second.  

In other action, Oscar Gonzalez improved to (2-0) with a submission victory over Jared Laughlin (0-1), Dale Malensek remained undefeated at (5-0) with a decision victory over George Hernandez (0-2) and Kyle Kleinschmidt (5-1) defeated Guilherme de Lima (1-1) via decision to round out event.

You won’t find more BANG for your buck so order this thrilling event.  Watch the stars of tomorrow compete today.  Be sure to catch all of the action Epic Fighting presents Epic Fighting 10 on pay-per-view and video on demand, exclusively at GFL.tv

Cut Throat MMA - "Invasion 5 Aurora" Preview

Cut Throat MMA is back with Invasion 5 Aurora January 27 at La Sierra in Aurora.   The 10-bout card is highlighted by a 185 lb title fight.  Cut Throat MMA has quickly established itself as one of the hottest MMA organizations in the Midwest and is a breeding ground for the sports future stars as it has several different series’ of MMA events that is promotes throughout the region .  Invasion 5 Aurora will no doubt build on the growing momentum of high level events Cut Throat presents. 

In the main event, for the Cut Throat MMA Middleweight Title, Sam Ferguson (2-1-1) of Carlson Gracie Jiu Jitsu fights Ryan Kirwan (2-3).  Ferguson is coming off a first round TKO victory in his last fight, and shows the evolution of the Gracie-schooled fighter.  Ferguson’s other victory also came via first round KO so don’t let his home gym fool you, he is an all-around MMA fighter.  Kirwan has hit a tough skid, but a victory against Ferfuson will erase his last three fights in a split second.  Kirwan also likes to do damage with his fists, as both of this victories have come via KO or TKO stoppage.  This could be a wild fight if the athletes decide to keep it standing, someone is bound to drop.  It could also be a classic grappling contest, although one that Ferguson should have the advantage.  So expect Kirwan to want to turn this into a kickboxing match, which might be just fine for Ferguson.  Either way, both gladiators are coming out guns blazing as this is not only the main event, but a title fight, and it would be the first title for either man in their budding MMA careers.

In the co-main event, Tom Shoaff fights Anthony Nichols.  Being the co-main event is a huge step for these two, so don’t be surprised if they have “fight of the night” and impress the audience with their performance.  Both Shoaff and Nichols are well rounded so it will be who can dictate the pace of the fight that might decide who the winner will be.  The fighter with the best cardio conditioning will have an edge in this battle.

Don’t miss this exciting 10-bout card on January 27.  Cut Throat MMA brings you another fully loaded card with Invasion 5 Aurora.  Watch the hottest Midwest MMA prospects compete in the Cut Throat MMA cage.  Order this event now, exclusively through the GFL Combat Sport Network at GFL.tv. 

Elite 1 MMA "Heavy Hitters" Preview

Elite 1 MMA makes its debut on the GFL Combat Sports Network on January 28 with Heavy Hitters from Casino New Brunswick in Moncton, New Brunswick.  Elite 1 MMA has a stacked 11-bout lineup with two titles on the line.  MMA is exploding around the world, and there is no country where it is hotter than Canada.  Tune in to watch the newest regional promotion stationed in the Great White North as it delivers its event to a worldwide audience on GFL.tv.  

In the main event, for the Elite 1 MMA Light Heavyweight Championship, Chris Johnson (2-2) fights Dana Dickeson (1-1).  Johnson is coming off a victory in his last fight for Elite 1 where he won by rear naked choke in the first round.  Johnson likes to bang on his feet, but is also a competent grappler as his last victory showed.  For Dickeson, he is looking to get the fight to the ground where he won his first bout via TKO, and deliver some ground and pound on Johnson.  With both gladiators liking to fight on the mat, this could be a contest where the wrestling and grappling is nullified and it turns into a boxing or kickboxing match.  If that happens, don’t expect the fight to go the distance as these two beasts will be throwing heavy leather.  

In the co-main event, for the Elite 1 MMA Welterweight Championship, Richard Arsenault (1-2) battles Ricky Goodall (6-4).  Arsenault is coming off of a long layoff, so ring rust might be a factor in this bout.  It could also be a positive as it gave Arsenault time to hone his craft and come back a completely different fighter.  For Goodall, who has 3 times the cage experience as Arsenault, look for him to test Arsenault early to see where his cardio conditioning is go for the win in the opening round.  If that happens fans should be treated to a barnburner of a fight, because this bout if for a title and that tends to lend itself to fighters pushing the action even more.    

Don’t miss this stacked card featuring top prospects and up and coming fighters emanating from Eastern Canada!  Watch the champions of tomorrow compete today on this stacked card as Elite 1 MMA delivers its inaugural event, Heavy Hitters on January 28, streaming live on pay-per-view exclusively at GFL.tv

TaKe-On Productions - "Battle at the 7 Train XI" Preview

Muay Thai is back as TaKe-On Productions presents Battle at the 7 Train XI, full contact Muay Thai at the 7 Train Theatre in Flushing, New York on January 27.   The card featured at hotly anticipated main event, along with the semifinals of the 155 lb “Rising Stars” 8-man tournament.  If you love the striking game, this is the event for you.  TaKe-On always puts together great Muay Thai events that feature high level striking with blistering kicks, punches, knees and elbows.  Get ready for the “science of the 8 limbs” on January 27.

In the main event, Turan “The Tornado” Hasanov (6-4) out of the Fight Factory in Brooklyn, New York battles Sean Hinds (15-5) from Mushin MMA in New York City.  Hasanov is a fast paced fighter who likes to throw punches in bunches.  Look for him to come out using all 8 striking points right from the opening bell.  For Hinds, he has a more eclectic style as he has traveled the world and picked up various different styles and methods of Muay Thai.  Hinds utilizes primarily stiff punches and kicks along with a very strong clinch to do his damage.  This bout will be a matchup of one fighter who looks to constantly strike and put the pressure on while the other fighter is more methodical in his approach and a great counter puncher as well.  

In one of the 155 lb tournament fights, James Gregory (4-0) from Cool Hearts, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, fights Andrilo “Jr” Suarez (2-0) from American Killer Bees in Queens, New York.  Both Gregory and Suarez won by decision their last fight and for one of them, a victory here will keep their record perfect and also put them into the finals of the “Rising Stars” Tourney.  Gregory has twice the experience as Suarez and will look to capitalize on that by giving Suarez a bunch of different angles when he throws his strikes.  For Suarez, he will probably come out hands down and chin up, which has proven very successful in his career so far.  

In the second bout in the 155 lb tournament, Akio Nakasone (2-0) from The Wat in New York City battles Freddy Cheung (1-1) from Sitan Gym in Queens.  Nakasone won his previous bout by decision, while Cheung won his by KO, the only fighter to do so.  Both fighters are just getting their Muay Thai careers going and for one of them, a victory here already places them in the finals of the tourney.  

The only way to watch this thrilling card that will no doubt have some great knockouts is to order it exclusively through the GFL Combat Sports Network at GFL.tv.  Be sure to catch all of the action on January 27 as TaKe-On Productions presents Battle at the 7 Train XI.  Order now!

IZW January 21 Episode on GFL.tv Review

Double D came out to the ring with Erica alongside, to start the January 21 IZW free, broadcast on GFL.tv.  D cut a compelling promo against the Mystery Man who cost him the Impact Division Championship in his match with Rage Logan a week earlier.  Double D is hell bent on finding out who this Mystery Man is and settling the score.  Next up was new IZW Commish Brandon Bishop, who got into a verbal scuffle with Double D, only to be interrupted by the giant Kevin Morgan.  Morgan has been on a terror lately and dishing out pain to every opponent he’s faced.  He challenged Double D to an impromptu match, which Double D accepted and the show was off to the races.  

Morgan used his size and strength and wore down Double D with slams, and other power moves.  But Double D is one of the most resilient wrestlers in the sport and would not give up.  As the match got longer, Double D’s cardio conditioning started to come in to play, as D’s speed and agility started to pay dividends.  D landed a flying knee and then went for a top rope finisher, but Morgan was able to grab Double D in midflight and power bomb him to the mat.  Double D turned the tide one more time and set up Morgan for a cross body off of the top rope, but as Double D executed the move, the lights went out again.  When they came back on, both grapplers were standing in the middle of the ring with their backs turned to one another.  Morgan seized the opportunity and delivered his version of the choke slam for the pinfall victory.  This makes two weeks in a row, where the lights have gone out during Double D matches, matches that he was ready to win.  After the bout, Bishop made a new match for Violent Valentine on February 11.  It will be a Triple Threat Match with Rage Logan defending his belt against Double D, and the Mystery Man!  No doubt, February 11 cannot get here fast enough for Double D.

Next up was Randy Price versus Bobby Star with Starr.  Price has been on quite a roll since his break up from Impact Inc., and showed it in this bout as he was too much for Bobby Star.  Price ended the bout with his famous Piledriver 1-2-3 and sent Star home with a painful loss.

Impact Division Champion, Rage Logan, defeated Jordan Jacobs in the match of the night.  It was a back and forth bout with several close pinfalls, with Jacobs gaining the upper hand early based off of his athleticism, but the Champion fought back valiantly.  Jacobs stunned Logan with the Torture Rack Bomb, and then went to the top rope where Damien Morte interfered and distracted the referee long enough for Logan to come out of the fog.  Logan grabbed Jacobs and landed a screwdriver neck breaker that ended Jacobs’ night.  It was Logan’s best match in IZW since his return.

Aaron Neil and Jermaine Johnson confronted each other in the middle of the ring.  Both wrestlers jawed at each other until The Future Hall of Famers came out to the ring to break up the festivities.  This prompted Commissioner Brandon Bishop to come down to the ring once again.  And for the third week in a row, Neil and Johnson were paired up in tag team completion, this time against Eric Rose and David Windsor.  Neil ended the match with a Real Drill on Eric Rose as Johnson recovered from a spinning heel kick.  During the post-match, Johnson threw a series of punches to Neil and finally got him down to the mat.  Johnson then brought in a chair from outside the ring, but Neil turned the tables and delivered a Real Drill slamming Johnson on the cold, hard steel.

Kyra Maya took on Erica with Starr as Guest Referee.  It was a glorified handicap match as Maya broke rules from the get go, and Starr fast counted the pinfall giving the victory to her running mate, Maya.

In the main event, it was a Last Man Standing Match between John O’Malley and “Bad” Brad Michaels.  It was a brutal and bloody match as O’Malley and Michaels took this match to the very ends of punishment.  Michaels came equipped with the brass knuckles that have helped him out in the past, but it was not enough as O’Malley overcame that and more and finally won after he delivered three Swintons his variation on a Senton on to the motionless body of Michaels.  Michaels suffered severe internal bleeding and possibly a punctured lung as he was spitting up blood as he lay on the mat for several minutes.   Finally, Michaels was put in a neck brace and lifted onto a stretcher and taken out of the Impact Arena.  Sometimes when you mess with the bull, you get the horns.  Michaels has been going at O’Malley pretty hard for some time and he finally bit off more than he could chew on this night as the big man made him pay for every insult, and bad thing he has ever done.  For Michaels, this bout might possibly be a career-killer as he most certainly will never be the same again.  Only time will tell how much was permanently taken out of Brad Michaels career with this match, but you can bet your bottom dollar, he will never be 100% again. 

Hard Knocks Fighting Championship - "School of Hard Knocks 19 Calgary" Review

Western Canada’s top MMA promotion returned as Hard Knocks Fighting Championship presented School of Hard Knocks 19 Calgary, at the Century Casino in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The action packed 11-bout pro/am card had 9 fights end in either KO or submission, including all 4 pro bouts.  HKFC is the top proving ground for rising prospects in Western Canada and the 19^th installment continued that trend as all of the fighters came out to make a statement, and did.    

In the main event, Advin Omic (9-4) from Arashi-do in Red Deer, AB defeated Paapa Inkumusah (4-4) from Gracie Barra in Calgary, AB by rear naked choke in Round 1 of their welterweight clash. Omic proved his is stronger on the ground then the Gracie-affiliated Inkumusah as he was able to get the tapout victory in less than one round.  Omic worked for a takedown almost immediately while Inkumusah pummeled for position and did some great clinch work to thwart Omic’s advances.  Once Omic finally did get the fight to the mat, he attached with punches and kept Inkumusah off balance by using transitions to change position.  Finally, Omic ended up on Inkumusah’s back and secured a body triangle and then sunk in the fight ending choke. 

In co-main event, Ryan Machan (15-7) from Arashi-do in Red Deer, AB defeated Keto Allen (6-4) from Canuckles MMA in Calgary, AB by rear naked choke in Round 2 of a 180 lb contest.   Round one was mostly full throttle stand up with some clinch work as both Machan and Allen went after each other with haymakers.  Allen landed a takedown late in the round and got Machan’s back but could not finish, but did rack up a 10-9 round.  In round 2, it was Machan’s turn and after the fighters hit the ground, Machan went to work and got Allen’s back.  After a few punches to soften up his opponent, Machan finished the fight with a variation of a rear naked choke.  Allen for his part looked more exhausted than hurt as he might have had an adrenaline dump as he could not move once Machan took his back.  This bout had great action throughout and was a candidate for “fight of the night”.

Don’t miss this electrifying event featuring Western Canada’s finest MMA athletes competing in front of a packed house at the Century Casino in Calgary.   Hard Knocks Fighting Championship always produces great fights and this event will was no different.  Watch all of the fights now with 9 of 11 finishes as Hard Knocks Fighting Championship presents School of Hard Knocks 19 Calgary on pay-per-view video on demand only at GFL.tv!

Epic Fighting 10 Preview

 

Epic Fighting 10 returns on the GFL Combat Sports Network on January 20 at the Four Points Sheraton in San Diego, California.  For the 9 card Epic Fighting has collected some of the deepest local talent in the country to provide the fans of SoCal and worldwide watching live on the Internet a great night of action packed fights.    

In the main event, Francisco Castro (5-5) battles Marvin Madariaga (3-0) from Blackhouse Gym in a featherweight scrap.   Castro is coming off of a tough loss in the California State Finals back in December and before that bout was on a 4-fight winning streak.  Castro is a cage general and controls the pace of the action very well, as he grinds out his opponents for unanimous decisions.  He will look to do the same against the upstart Madariaga.  For Madariaga, training out of the same gym as UFC Middleweight Champion, Anderson Silva, is a big advantage over most other training camps.  The undefeated prospect looks to keep his MMA record perfect with a victory against Castro.  Madariaga has finished 2 of his fights inside of one round, so expect him to try and implement a style early on that will get Castro on his heels. 

The co-main event is a rematch between Carlos Caliso Jr. (5-2) from Spiritwolf MMA fights Oscar Gonzalez (4-2) from Victory MMA in a lightweight matchup.  In their previous fight, Caliso Jr. picked up the unanimous decision victory.  Caliso Jr. is on a 2-fight win streak including picking up a tough victory last June with Epic Fighting.  Caliso Jr. is a well-rounded fighter who would prefer to stand and throw down, but is also a competent grappler.  For Gonzalez, a veteran of Epic Fighting as well, he will look to extract some revenge on Caliso Jr. and give him a taste of his own medicine.  Gonzalez is coming off of a submission victory in his last fight and looks to put all the pieces of the MMA puzzle together, when he steps into the cage with Caliso Jr. on January 20.

You won’t find more BANG for your buck so order this thrilling event.  Watch the stars of tomorrow compete today.  Be sure to catch all of the action LIVE on January 20 as Epic Fighting presents Epic Fighting 10 on pay-per-view exclusively at GFL.tv.

Hard Knock Fighting Championship - "School of Hard Knocks 19 Calgary" Preview

Western Canada’s top MMA promotion is back as Hard Knocks Fighting Championship brings School of Hard Knocks 19 Calgary, to the Century Casino in Calgary, Alberta, Canada on January 20. The action packed 15-bout pro/am card is the top proving ground for amateur MMA in Western Canada and several exciting matchups have been booked for a great night of fighting action brought to you exclusively at the GFL Combat Sports Network.  

In the main event, Paapa Inkumusah (4-3) from Gracie Barra in Calgary, AB takes on Advin Omic (8-4) from Arashi-do in Red Deer, AB in a welterweight tilt.  3 of Inkumusah’s victories have come via submission, which is no surprise as Gracie Barra is one of the most well-known and respected grappling schools in the world.  Expect Inkumusah to look for a choke or armlock early if the fight gets to the mat.  Omic is on a two-fight win streak and has a variety of submissions wins to his credit too.  It will be interesting to see if Omic wants to play the grappling game with Inkumusah or he tries to keep his distance and work the standup game.  Either way, fans are in for a great main event.

In co-main event, Keto Allen (6-3) from Canuckles MMA in Calgary, AB matches up against Ryan Machan (14-7) from Arashi-do in Red Deer, AB in a 180 lb contest.   Allen looks to get back on track with this bout as the tough Calgary scrapper suffered a loss in his last bout.  Allen is a fan favorite in Canada for his explosive and aggressive style and he will be ready to put things in to high gear in this bout and see if he can push the pace and break down Machan.  For Machan, who is a perennial MFC vet, this bout is very important for him to get back to center stage in Canadian MMA.  He is matched up against a very game opponent who needs a win here just as badly, so expect the fireworks to start early and this bout be a candidate for “fight of the night”.

Don’t miss this electrifying event featuring Western Canada’s finest MMA athletes competing in front of a packed house at the Century Casino in Calgary.   Hard Knocks Fighting Championship always produces great fights and this event will be no different.  Watch all of the fights LIVE on January 20 as Hard Knock Fighting Championship presents School of Hard Knocks 19 Calgary on pay-per-view only at GFL.tv!

Combat Sport Challenge (CSC) 32 - "Battleware Fighting Championship" Preview

Virginia’s #1 hybrid promotion featuring MMA and Muay Thai is back as Combat Sports Challenge (CSC) partners with Battleware Technologies to present CSC 32 Battleware Fighting Championships on January 21 at the Crown Plaza – Richmond West in Richmond, Virginia.  The event will be a mixed event featuring pro/am fights in MMA and Muay Thai, including 4 WKA Title bouts and airing live on the GFL Combat Sports Network.    

In the main event, on the MMA side, Ring of Combat veteran Dwayne Shelton (9-9-1) of Team Combat in Virginia fights Joe Maiani (2-2) of Team Genocide in Ohio.  Shelton is comfortable in the standup and grappling games alike, so look for him to mix up his attacks against Maiani in the beginning and try to use his cage experience to pick apart his opponent.  Maiani is coming off a first round submission victory and looks to start 2012 off with another quick victory.  Maiani is a fast starter, so look for him to try and bring the action to Shelton from the get go.  This could be a contrasting of styles, but for MMA fans it should be an exciting and interesting matchup to see which fighter can impose their will.   

In one of the top Muay Thai battles, Ani Hilditch battles Robin Reese.  Hilditch and Reese will be battling for a WKA Championship so expect these two women to come out throwing punches and kicks with bad intentions.  Hilditch has been a veteran to the Muay Thai scene for some time now and looks to finally cement her legacy with a championship belt.  To do so, she will have to overcome Reese, who has quickly shown that she is ready to fight for a championship.  Muay Thai can be a brutal contest of bone cracking strikes.  Both Hilditch and Reese promise to do everything in their power to devastate and debilitate one another in this championship bout.  

You won’t find more intrigue than this card.  For fans of the combat sports, this hybrid card is for you.  Be sure to catch all of the action LIVE on January 21, as CSC presents CSC 32 Battleware Fighting Championships exclusively at GFL.tv.

IZW January 14 Episode on GFL.tv Review

IZW started off with a jaw dropping announcement and wrestler return on the January 14 edition on GFL.tv.  With the whole IZW locker room surround the ring in anticipation, Brandon Bishop returned to IZW after more than five years, with Valerie by his side, and he did so as the new IZW Commissioner replacing Jeff Wolfenbarger.  Wolfenbarger might have relinquished his role as commissioner, but he raised the stakes and increased the brand awareness of IZW by scooping up Bishop and giving him the key to the city, so to speak.   IZW continues to be on the cutting edge of professional wrestling and throwing Bishop into the mix that is Impact Zone Wrestling will only enhance the overall product which can now be viewed worldwide in streaming video at GFL.tv. 

The opening match saw IZW Heavyweight Champion Aaron Neil and Jermaine Johnson once again team up in tag action, to defeat The Future Hall of Famers (Brad Michaels and Wage).  Bishop sanctioned the match as his first official match as IZW Commissioner.  Neil and Johnson showed great chemistry again as tag team partners, and this new twist on their feud can only enhance their main event matchup at Violent Valentine in a TLC Match for the Heavyweight Title on February 11.  Neil had the match won and was read to pin Wage, and then in typical Johnson fashion, tagged himself in and picked the bones of Wage to get the pinfall for himself.  Neil had the last laugh though as he slammed Johnson face first down in the middle of the ring leaving the former champion motionless looking up at the lights. 

In the second bout of the evening, Starr defeated Miss Diss Lexia via the Falling Star with the help of Bobby Star who distracted the referee.  Starr and Bobby Star is an odd pairing to say the least, but it showed here it is an effective pairing as when all was said and done, Starr got the victory.  

Kevin Morgan defeated Randy Price via the Nuclear Explosion after Price’s attention turned to Bishop who came down to the ring to interrupt and goad Price.  For what it’s worth, Price looks to have done a 180⁰ with this career and taken it in a completely different direction by stepping away from Impact Inc.  He had the big man Morgan in trouble but the distraction by Commissioner Bishop caused Price to lose his concentration for a split second and that was all the big man needed to finish the job. 

John O'Malley defeated Bobby Star.  Bobby Star was in the backstage area clipping Starr’s toenails when O’Malley degraded Starr and this turned into a score that needed to be settled in the ring.  O’Malley decimated Star and finished the bout with a slam and then a Senton that crushed Star into the canvas for the easy 1-2-3.  After the match, Brad Michaels came down to the ring, from the announcers’ booth, and gave O’Malley a DDT followed up by a shot with the brass knuckles, knocking O’Malley out. 

In the main event, IZW Impact Division Champion Rage Logan defeated Double D in a hotly contested 20-minute grappling clinic with two of the best cruiserweights in the territory.  It was a back and forth match when Double D looked to finally gain the advantage and go for his patented Defacer when all of a sudden the lights went out.  When the lights returned, Double D was knocked out, and lying in the middle of the ring.  Logan looked confused, but his wrestling instincts took over and he covered D’s motionless body to get the pinfall victory and retain his Impact Division title.  Although this was a great victory for Logan, the bigger question of the night is what happened to Double D, who was still out cold as the broadcast went off the air.

Tune in next Saturday, January, 21 to find out what happened to Double D, and what new IZW Commissioner, Brandon Bishop has in store for the IZW roster.  One thing is for certain, IZW is going through some big changes…Be there to witness it firsthand only at GFL.tv.

Spartan Fighting Championship 11 - "Destruction" Review

Kentucky’s leading cage fighting event returned as Spartan Fighting Championship 11 presented Destruction at the National Guard Armory in Ashland, Kentucky. SFC always puts on action-packed cards and this event is no exception.  The night included several title fights including for the first time ever in Kentucky a bantamweight championship bout.  The 12-bout pro/am card had 11 finishes and a total of 3 titles at stake.  The fighters all fought their hearts out for the fans in attendance and watching worldwide on GFL.tv.  SFC has quickly become the top organization not only in the Bluegrass State by throughout the territory because of its matchmaking and the high quality of fighters that it is able to sign.

In the main event, Jason Butcher (3-0) defeated Jared “Honey” Combs (7-2) by triangle choke in Round 1 in a pro bout.  Butcher stayed true to his winning streak as he was able to get the victory inside of the opening round finishing Combs off after a nice transition and some slick ground work.  Butcher is known for his strong ground and pound style, but showed that he is also dangerous with submissions on the ground getting the cagey veteran Combs to tapout.  This was definitely the biggest win of Butcher’s young career and you would think that he will be fighting for a regional title in the welterweight division soon.   

In the co-main event, Cornelius Godfrey (4-0) defeated Thomas Campbell (3-2) via TKO due to strikes in Round 2 to win the newly minted SFC 135 lb Pro Championship.  Godfrey has finished every opponent that’s been put in front of him, and Campbell was no different.  The victory is a bit historic as Godfrey is the first MMA fighter to ever hold a 135 lb championship in the Bluegrass State.  The undefeated champion looked great in the cage against a worthy opponent in Campbell who was on a a 3-fight winning streak with all victories coming way of first round submission leading into the fight with Godfrey. 

Undefeated Michael Seals (8-0) defeated Michael West via shoulder lock submission in Round 1 to capture the SFC 170 Amateur Championship, while Chris Brown (6-0) beat James Williams (3-1) via unanimous decision to become the SFC 205 lb Amateur Champion.  

Don’t miss this thrilling mixed martial arts card with the top up and coming talent in the Ohio Valley area coming to throw down as Spartan Fighting Championship 11 presents Destruction. 3 titles are on the line on this stacked pro/am show and the main event features two of the most highly regarded prospects in the area that will no doubt splash on to the national scene sooner than later.  Watch the champions of tomorrow compete today live on pay-per-view exclusively at GFL.tv!

Xtreme Cage Wars 46 (XCW) - "Battleground" Preview

 

Central Canada’s premier cage fighting event returns on January 21 as Xtreme Cage Wars (XCW) presents XCW 46 Battleground at the Lion’s Hall in Shell Lake, Saskatchewan, Canada with 16 exciting bouts scheduled.  XCW is a breeding ground for the international promotions and XCW 46 Battleground will showcase some of the rising mixed martial artists soon to hit the national scene.

In the main event, Kurt Bailey (1-3-1) fights Evander Masukapoe (2-1-1) in a welterweight title fight showdown for the XCW 170 lb championship.  This is a rematch of sorts as the two battled early in the amateur careers with Bailey picking up a close decision victory.  Both fighters have grown by leaps and bounds since that initial matchup and this fight plans to be a completely different contest with both Bailey and Masukapoe looking to finish the fight and put an exclamation point on their championship bout.  Bailey likes to implement a high risk/high reward style and can be reckless at times in the ring, which is why he is always a fan favorite every time he fights.  Masuskapo is a strong grappler who also likes to head hunt so the fight could be over in a flash.  Since both fighters are already familiar with each other, don’t expect a long feeling out period.  This fight should have fireworks from the very beginning.

In the co-main event, Rob Seniuk battles Mike Nabess in a matchup of newcomers.  XCW is known for finding gems in the MMA landscape in Canada, and Seniuk versus Nabess promises to be an exciting fight of two young and determined prospects making their professional debuts.

Don’t miss this event as XCW, Central Canada’s most prolific MMA organization, presents XCW 46 Battleground, a 16-bout card, on January 21, exclusively on GFL.tv.  Order it NOW!

IZW End of the Year Awards

Impact Zone Wrestling recently announced the winners of the 2011 End of the Year Award Party highlighting a rollercoaster ride for 2011.   The results showed just how entrenched the fans loyalties lie with the IZW Superstars and how several wrestlers were able to break out of the pack and establish themselves as the top wrestlers in the Mid-South territory. 

Perhaps the most telling award was the Most Popular Superstar going to Johnny Z.  Johnny Z holds the unique distinction of winning Most Hated Superstar (2010) and Most Popular Superstar (2011) in back to back years.  The award is a testament to how well Johnny Z connects with the fans and transfers his energy and emotion in the ring onto the fans in attendance and watching worldwide on GFL.tv.  Johnny Z made a comeback of monumental proportions back in to the good standing of the IZW fans by using his same no-nonsense type of approach to build up the organization, instead of trying to tear it down like in 2010.  Johnny Z’s feuds with Impact Inc. and “The Shooter” Brent Albright struck a nerve and cut to the heart of the IZW faithful and although he is on the shelf at the moment, expect more great things from the “Natural Born Leader” in 2012.

Double D took home the honors of Superstar of the Year.  For D, this makes it two years in a row and it’s easy to see why.  Double D is a workhorse inside of the ring and his aerial assaults and variations are something not many people in the business can duplicate.  Double D is also the consummate professional, and carries the torch for what he and the fans know is right.  He took Jermaine Johnson to the brink, for the World Title at Halloween Hangover, and ended 2011 with a bang when he defeated former NWA World Champion, Brent Albright, in a No Holds Barred/No DQ Match after Johnny Z was injured and unable to compete.  It is things like this that make Double D such a fan favorite.  He lives by an honor code that not many do.  Already in a heated feud with new Impact Division Champion, Rage Logan, Double D will look to add more memorable matches along with more golden hardware to his collection in the next 12 months.

On the flip side of Johnny Z and Double D’s awards is Most Hated Superstar and that award goes to Jeff Wolfenbarger.  The leader of Impact Inc. and brother of Johnny Z, Wolfenbarger’s name is “mud” in the Oklahoma territory.  A man with a very large brain, but not a lot of muscles to back up his scheming, Wolfenbarger always lets others do his dirty work.  But you have to give the devil his due, as he created an unequaled faction with his version of Impact Inc., taking the group to new heights and controlling the World Championship.  And whoever controls the World Championship controls the direction of the company and Wolfenbarger helped orchestrate that game plan to perfection.  2011 was loaded with chaos and a big reason for that was Wolfenbarger’s behind the scenes plays and power struggles.  Expect that to continue in 2012 because once a man like Wolfenbarger has tasted success, it’s hard for him to give it up.   

The Old School Suckas won Tag Team of the Year, in a runaway.  The duo of Gary Tool and Bernie D are two of the most consistent performers on the IZW roster.  The team has held on to the IZW Tag Team straps for what seems like eternity and has beaten back every challenge they’ve faced.  With several decades of experience, both Tool and Bernie D have had one of the best years of their careers’.   No two wrestlers gel together quite the way the Old School Suckas do.  Unfortunately, Bernie D was injured on the final iPPV of 2011, Chaotic Christmas, so Gary Tool will be flying solo until Bernie D is physically able to return.  For fans of tag team wrestling, hopefully Bernie D is ready to go soon. 

The Moment of the Year, Match of the Year and Feud of the Year all revolve around two men; Aaron Neil and Jermaine Johnson.  For over a year, Johnson held the IZW Heavyweight Championship and defeated all comers.  It was in December of 2010 at Chaotic Christmas, in a TLC match, that got things rolling for Johnson and the “Me Era” and was voted Match of the Year.  The match showed Johnson to be a prime time, main event player in how he was able to go blow for blow with the perennial IZW Superstar, “The Real Deal” Aaron Neil.  Johnson retained his Heavyweight Championship in dramatic fashion in his first title defense that he had won a month prior by defeating Neil.  Since that game changing TLC match it showed that Johnson’s earlier victory was not a fluke and sent his career into the stratosphere.  For Neil, it was a tough loss, but one that would eat away at the multi-time Heavyweight Champion and it was the constant pursuit by Neil and his grit and determination in doing whatever it would take to regain his championship that Johnson now held that was voted Feud of the Year.  Johnson and Neil’s feud carried IZW on its back and the two grapplers deserve all the praise and recognition they receive from it.  Things finally came to a head at Halloween Hangover, with the Moment of the Year, when Aaron Neil entered the Monsters Bash Battle Royal as the #1 entry and sliced through the whole roster to win the match and receive an automatic title shot.  Neil scratched and clawed his way through every member of the IZW roster, including tossing Champion Johnson over the top rope to add an exclamation point to his dramatic run.  Winning that match at Halloween Hangover, and outlasting everybody else in IZW set up the return match a year in the making between Jermaine Johnson and Aaron Neil that took place at Chaotic Christmas 2011 where Neil was able to find some justice and defeat his arch nemesis and regain the IZW Heavyweight Title. 

Witness the match that lit the territory on fire for FREE as IZW and GFL.tv bring to you Chaotic Christmas 2010 here http://www.gfl.tv/Events/Fight/Wrestling/Impact_Zone_Wrestling_Chaotic_Christmas/1137

With tons of new feuds and new players stepping up to the challenge, 2012 promises to deliver even more memorable events and moments to those watching live at the Impact Arena and worldwide on the GFL Combat Sports Network at GFL.tv.  Stay tuned.  

To learn more about all things IZW related, visit us at any of these online locations.

Website: izwrestling.com

YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/IZWOklahoma

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ImpactZoneWrestling

Twitter: @IZW_Oklahoma

###

For Press or other Media Inquiries Contact:

Drew Archer at drewarchersr@gmail.com 

Or on twitter @drewarchersr

Ultimate Reno Combat 30 - "THIRTY" Preview

Northern Nevada’s premier cage fighting event returns as Ultimate Reno Combat 30 presents THIRTY LIVE on January 13, a 9-bout card, at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada.  

 In the main event, Radames Garcia (6-1) fights Andrey Mitchell (3-2).  Garcia, who fights out of Cung Le’s AKA Fight Team is coming off a spectacular run culminating in winning the CAMO MMA title in a state-wide tournament in California this past December.  Garcia also picked up submission of the night for his first round victory to win the championship.  Garcia looks to pick up right where he left off in 2012 and build on the success of the past year.  Standing in his way is Andrey Mitchell. For Mitchell this is a great opportunity to not only even his record, but defeat a fighter who has a lot of momentum going into the bout.  Mitchell is a URC vet as all 5 of his bouts have been inside the URC cage.  Coming off the heels of two decision losses, a victory against Garcia could erase those controversial defeats.  Expect Mitchell to come out guns blazing as he doesn’t want to let another fight go to the judges.

The co-main event features Nathan Brimm (1-0) against “Bad” Brad Robasciotti (1-1) in a 205 lb scrap.  Brimm is coming off a first round stoppage victory at URC 21 and will look to get the fight to the mat where his powerful punches can do the most damage. Robasciotti is coming off an injury in his last fight and now that he is completely healed he wants to get back to his winning ways.  This bout is going to resemble two bulls in a china shop as there will be chaos and destruction at every turn.  Don’t blink as odds are, this bout is not going the distance.  

Watch the champions of tomorrow compete today!  Don’t miss this loaded event with 9 high octane bouts as Northern Nevada’s Ultimate Reno Combat 30 presents THIRTY on January 13, exclusively on GFL.tv.

Spartan Fighting Championship 11 - "Destruction" Preview

Kentucky’s leading cage fighting event is back as Spartan Fighting Championship 11 presents Destruction on Friday, January 13 at the National Guard Armory in Ashland, Kentucky. SFC always puts on action-packed cards and this event is no exception.  The 17-bout pro/am card has a total of 3 titles up for grabs along with a main event that features two rising prospects on a collision course.  SFC only promotes the best prospects in the region as the athletes records speak for themselves.  SFC has quickly become the top organization not only in the Bluegrass State by throughout the territory because of its matchmaking and the high quality of fighters that it is able to sign.

In the main event, Jason Butcher (2-0) fights Jared “Honey” Combs (7-1) in a pro tussle.  Butcher recently turned pro after amassing a (6-2) amateur record.  Both of Butcher’s professional victories have come via first round finishes, one KO and one submission.  With a strong wrestling and grappling background, Butcher likes to get the fight to the mat where he can work for a submission or use his ground and pound to finish his opponents.  Fighting Combs will be like looking in the mirror as he too likes to get fights to the ground and use vicious striking to take his opponents out.  Combs has 4 times the experience fighting professionally and that should be an advantage for him in this bout.  Neither fighter has ever gone the distance so if the fight gets into the later rounds, conditioning could play a major part.  The winner of this bout sets himself up to be the #1 prospect in the entire Ohio Valley region.   

In the co-main event, Cornelius Godfrey (3-0) battles Thomas Campbell (3-1) for the newly minted SFC 135 lb Pro Championship.  Godfrey has finished every opponent that’s been put in front of him, but the challenger on January 13 is going to be the toughest test to date.  Campbell is on a 3-fight winning streak with all victories coming way of first round submission. Look for this bout to be “fight of the night” as these two bantamweights don’t know how to pace themselves.  Don’t blink as this bout could be over seconds into round one.  

Also up for grabs are two amateur titles.  Undefeated Michael Seals (7-0) battles David West (5-1) for the SFC 170 Amateur Championship, while Chris Brown (5-0) takes on James Williams (3-0) for the SFC 205 lb Amateur Title.  

Don’t miss this thrilling mixed martial arts card with the top up and coming talent in the Ohio Valley area coming to throw down as Spartan Fighting Championship 11 presents Destruction. 3 titles are on the line on this stacked pro/am show and the main event features two of the most highly regarded prospects in the area that will no doubt splash on to the national scene sooner than later.  Watch the champions of tomorrow compete today on January 13 streaming live on pay-per-view exclusively at GFL.tv!

IZW January 7 Episode on GFL.tv Review

IZW hit the ground running with its first show of 2012 as new wrestlers stepped up to the plate and proved that they are ready for prime time, while old feuds where re-ignited.  IZW continues to push the business forward, create new stars and deliver action-packed feuds with its weekly free series broadcast worldwide on GFL.tv.  The January 7 episode had great matches and the aftermath saw a new champion crowned.

To begin the show, Jermaine Johnson optioned his automatic rematch clause and challenged new IZW Champion Aaron Neil to a TLC Match at Violent Valentine on February 11.  The in-ring exchange was a bit more cordial then the previous encounters in 2011 between the current and former IZW Champs.  The mutual admiration wasn’t lost on Brad Michaels and Eric Rose of the Future Hall of Famers.  The FHF challenged Neil and Johnson to a tag match and it was uncanny how well Neil and Johnson worked together inside of the ring.  Rivals for so long, the impromptu pairing of Neil and Johnson showed just how gifted these two wrestlers are in the ring whether they are wrestling against or alongside one another.  Neil and Johnson picked up the win when Neil delivered the Real Drill on Eric Rose for the 1-2-3.  The unlikely pairing was not to last though, as Johnson delivered a Real Drill of his own on his tag partner and let Neil and the Impact Arena know where his focus and intentions lie – getting back his IZW Heavyweight Championship at Violent Valentine. 

John O'Malley defeated Soto Miyagi in a one-sided affair as he unleashed all 350 lb as Miyagi was helpless to defend the onslaught as O’Malley was a man on a mission.  After the bout, O’Malley challenged former partner, Bad Brad Michaels to a Last Man Standing Match on January 21.  Later in the evening, Brad Michaels answered O’Malley by delivering a knockout punch to the big man, courtesy of some brass knuckles in the backstage area.  This will only fuel the fire for O’Malley for their Last Man Standing Match, but Michaels has shown in the past, that he is a man of many tricks and will no doubt have something up his sleeve for the one time Future Hall of Famer going in to their January 21 match. 

Kevin Morgan defeated Lil’ Joe in a valiant effort by the smaller wrestler, but there was just too much size and power to overcome as the “Awesome One” used his patented choke slam to destroy Lil’ Joe.  Joe might want to set his sights on the Impact Division Title as he is a game wrestler, but going against somebody who outweighs him by 200 lb, is not a recipe for long-term success. 

In the main event, Rage Logan won a 5-Man Elimination Match against Gary Tool, Randy Price, Double D and Jordan Jacobs to win the vacant IZW Impact Division Title.  It came down to Logan and Double D as the final two combatants inside of the ring.  When it looked like Double D was about to win the Impact Division Title, Damien Morte came out of the stands and spit green mist in Double D’s face.  This gave Logan time to regroup and get the pinfall and become the new IZW Impact Division Champion.  Nemesis couldn’t have found a better time to rejoin forces and for Logan this was a huge victory that gets his career back on the right path after a couple of tough losses that ended 2011.  

The landscape has already changed dramatically in IZW for 2012.  Coming off the heels of a successful run in 2011, 2012 is shaping up to be the most explosive year in IZW history.  New champions in both the Heavyweight and Impact Divisions have shifted the state of power of the company and several new feuds and rivalries are sure to keep wrestling fans glued to their seats for the next 12 months.  If you missed any of the action, tune in to GFL.tv every Saturday night to watch IZW for FREE leading up to the February 11 iPPV, Violent Valentine.

DARE January 7 Preview

 

DARE is back on January 7 to start 2012 off with a bang!  Continuing the tournament that began in 2011, DARE is ready to make its mark in the MMA world by putting $1 million dollars on the line for the winners’ of each weight division.  January 7 will have the semi-finals in both the featherweight and welterweight divisions along with the first middleweight bout in DARE history.  With Asia’s top stars, including a PRIDE veteran and Muay Thai Legends competing in the original fight capital of the world, Bangkok, Thailand, see history made as another organization explodes onto the scene and becomes a major league player in the sport.  Watch this momentous event exclusively on the GFL Combat Sports Network.  

One bout that is sure to pique the interest of MMA fans is the return to Pay-Per-View of one of PRIDE’s most endearing fighters. Daiju Takase (9-13-2) battles Brandon Kesler (0-2) in the first middleweight fight in DARE’s history.  Takase is probably best known for his victory over UFC Middleweight Champion Anderson Silva via triangle choke at PRIDE 26.  It was a rude awakening for the future world champion as Takase’s ground game was light years ahead of Silva.  Takase will look to impress again as he takes on the resilient American transplant, Kesler, now living in Bangkok, his adopted hometown.  It will be a clash of styles as Kesler’s strengths include boxing and wrestling, while Takase is more of a submission specialist.   For Kesler’s part, he might want to use his striking to put Takase away as a takedown could be a risky proposition for the American.  Look for Takase to try and clinch early and get this bout down on the mat where he is at his best.

In one semi-final in the welterweight division, Arnaud Lepont (7-1) battles Krzysztof Hajtalowicz (3-0) in a battle of undefeated prospects.  The winner advances to the finals where $1 million dollars will be up for grabs.  Lepont is one of the top fighters in Maylasia relying mostly on striking but he is also a competent grappler.  Lepont also likes to push the pace and is always coming forward so expect him to put pressure on Hajtalowicz right from the get go.  Hajtalowicz’ main strength is his grappling as he has won several grappling tourneys along with submitting his last opponent inside the DARE cage by choke.  This bout should be a clash of styles and when that happens, usually the grappler is at an advantage, but with Lepont’s aggressive style, that could change everything.  

In the second semi-final in the welterweight division, Ammar Tchalabi (1-0) fights Andrea Signorini (1-0).  Tchalabi is a veteran of several Muay Thai fights and brings the “science of the 8 limbs” into this bout.  A member of the Phuket Top Team, Tchalabi has started to evolve his overall combat game by learning the ground aspect of MMA.  His last bout was a submission victory which was a feather in the cap of the KO artist.  Signorini has a background in Judo and won the bronze medal at the 2011 Thailand Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Open to go along with his years of competitive powerlifting.  There is no doubt that if Signorini can get the fight to the mat he can submit Tchalabi or hold him down to win the bout.

Also competing on the card is a lightweight bout with Shane Wiggand (2-3) versus Marko Huusansaari (3-2) Wiggand is a black belt in Judo, while Huusansaari is a Muay Thai veteran. There will also be two semi-final featherweight bouts including an all Thai affair with Teerapak Seatae versus Tondamrong Panjabutra and Majee Overall versus AJ Pyro that will round out the card.  The winners of the two featherweight fights will meet up in the finals to crown the DARE 145 lb champion.  

DARE is set to make its debut on iPPV with its January 7 event on GFL.tv.  One of the most diverse cards in MMA history will be on display as fighters from PRIDE, American, Malaysia, Thailand and Japan will put their unique skillsets to the test with a prize of $1 million dollars for the eventual winners in each division.   This bout has already caused a seismic shift in MMA because of the jaw-dropping purses that await the winners.  Be there to see the tournament unfold and watch as all of the action in the cage, exclusively on GFL.tv.