SATURDAY, July 31st, 2004, AT 8:50 PM, PT

Comparing The Numbers...
And Setting NEW RECORDS!

With the exception of a few possible lost registrations in the mail, check out the final numbers heading into the final 2 weeks before the 2004 IKF North American Classic! If the numbers stand, we could have "9" NEW RECORDS. This could be 10 if the numbers stay high for the actual number of fighters that show up and fight. Looks like Orlando was a great decision so far, lets hope everyone else is happy by the final bell.

Get ready everyone to
"Walk The Walk & Bring It ON!"

MORE NEWS OF 7-31-04

WHAT HAS...

So what has 18 brass screws, 18 brass washers, a brass buckle, 25 hand punched holes, stands about 10 inches tall, 1/4 inch think, about 42 inches wide, and weighs about 5 -6 lbs.? Oh, and we almost forgot, The base is all real leather and all 4 pieces are hand cut one by one... Oh and each costs $240.00. Last hint... It appears there will be 62 of these at this years 2004 IKF North American Classic.

Which means there will be 1,116 Brass Screws, 1,116 Brass Washers, 2,604 feet of them if put end to end. 248 "Hand Cut" pieces and a total of 1,550 hand punched holes... We think you guessed it by now, the IKF North American Classic Championship Belts. The $14,880 in Belts will be on board with Steve and Glenn when they leave for their 3,000 Mile Road Trip for Orlando next week along with all the IKF Merchandise that will be available at the IKF booth at the Classic (Last years 2003 Belt & some of the IKF Merchandise at Right).

What do they look like?
Not so fast, this year you will see them for the first time at the fighters meeting on Friday night... But in case you have never seen one of the Tournament Belts, check out those from the past from each year by clicking HERE

MORE NEWS OF 7-31-04

ANSWERS NEEDED...

Fighters and Trainers!!!
Please take a moment to view the various registration pages.

• ADULT MEN
• ADULT WOMEN
• JUNIORS (8-17)

If you have a RED QUESTION with your name, WE NEED THE ANSWER NOW! If you do not answer the question(s) we have asked, you could be DROPPED from the event. If you know someone with a Question for verification listed with their name, PLEASE INFORM THEM! We need EVERY ANSWER, even if it is just about your height or age. ESPECIALLY those without a fight.
There are "6" of you who are not matched up yet for the Tournament. You have until Wednesday, August 4th to inform us what your decision is. Move to another division or pull out and take full credit for the 2005 Tournament. You can call us at (916) 663-2467 or notify us by e-mail at main@ikfkickboxing.com
Here are the fighters currently without a fight for the Tournament below:

1. Hector Arbos of Dalton, Georgia, USA, Trained by Ben Kiker in the Adult FCR, Flyweight Division.
2. Jeffery Bybee of Peoria, Illinois, USA Trained by Ryan Blackorby in the Junior Boys, 14-15 Year Old MuayThai Junior Cruiserweight (90.1-95 lbs.) Division.
3. Umaer Haq of Alexandria, Virginia, USA Trained by Mike Hess in the Junior Boys 15-16 Year Old IR Featherweight (122.1 lbs. - 127 lbs.) Division.
4. Santiago Hernandez of Cicero, Illinois, USA Trained by Bob Shermer in the Junior Boys 10-11 Year Old FCR Super Middleweight (165.1 - 172 lbs.) Division.
5. Andrew Morello of Santa Barbara, California, USA Trained by Steve Marillo in the Junior Boys 16-17 Year Old Super Middleweight (165.1 - 172 lbs.) Division.
6. Nick Manthey of Chesapeake, Virginia, USA Trained by Clark Walters in the Junior Boys 16-17 Year Old Heavyweight (195.1-215 Lbs.) Division.

WE NEED TO HEAR FROM YOU as to what you are able to do. Move to a certain division or drop out and receive a full credit for 2005? If you don't respond before Wednesday, August 4th, you will not receive any future credit for any future Tournament. Again, You can call us at (916) 663-2467 or notify us by e-mail at main@ikfkickboxing.com

WEIGHT
Also, check ALL your information. Check the weight spread for your weightclass. YOU NEED TO MAKE YOUR WEIGHT. At weigh-ins, you can lose, but you cannot GAIN weight. If you do not make your weight by 7:PM you will be dropped from the Tournament.

2 Fighter Brackets!
We have already said many times before that we are not fond of 2 fighter brackets, but here is REALLY WHY! If one fighter in the bracket does not show up, there is no fight, which means, there will be no title awarded since there are no walkover Champions anymore. We suggest that you call your opponents trainer to assure they are coming. There is NOTHING unethical about doing this, it's just making sure you will have a fight. If you are a trainer being called by your opponents trainer, please be professional and respectful to each other... Wait, we shouldn't have to be telling any of you this. You know this already. Thank You...

PHOTOS
FIGHTERS...WE NEED YOUR PICTURE NOW!
"PASSPORT HEADSHOT SIZE PHOTO" no larger than 2 inches X 2 inches. If not, you will pay the price of "Time". If you are mailing in your photo it needs to "BE HERE", not postmarked, it needs to BE HERE no later then Wednesday, August 4th. If you bring your photo with you to registration, you will be charged $10 for us to make your pass there.

If you do not have a photo and we have to take your photo and make your fighter pass at registration
You will be charged $15.00.

The reason we want your photos "AHEAD of TIME" as requested on your fighter application is because it saves everyone time if we can make them BEFORE the event.

TRAINERS & Cornermen:
You do not have to send your photos in ahead of time. We will be making all trainer passes when you arrive. This is because we will be making sure that those receiving such passes are REALLY trainers and not just someone wanting a cheaper ticket to the event. If you bring your own "PASSPORT HEADSHOT SIZE PHOTO" no larger than 2 inches X 2 inches, with you, your trainer pass is $10. If we have to take your photo, the fee is $15. Please abide by all Trainer - Cornerman rules at this page HERE. For additional badge/pass info CLICK HERE.

OFFICIALS
Please send in (mail or jpg e-mail file) a photo for us or bring one to Registration. There is no charge for your passes as long as your name is listed on the 2004 Officials Page located HERE.
Speaking of Officials, we still need TIMEKEEPERS!
If you are able to confirm to do this during any portion of the event please e-mail us. This goes for any other OFFICIALS. We can always use more qualified Officials for the Tournament. We are also in need of more Doctors still. Our Ringside Doctors need to be licensed MD's in the State of Florida. To see our current list of Officials click HERE. If you are available to donate/volunteer your time to assist as a Tournament Official, Please send us your name and details to main@ikfkickboxing.com

NOT COMING?
If you are a registered fighter and are not going to be able to make the Tournament, please be professional and inform us now rather than just not showing up. ESPECIALLY if you are in any of the smaller (3 fighters or less) Brackets. You can call us at (916) 663-2467 or notify us by e-mail at main@ikfkickboxing.com
Not notifying us is not only unprofessional but it will also put a negative black mark on you from other fighters, trainers, and more so, Promoters who may have wanted to book you for a fight in the future.
Regardless of your reasons, it will assist the others in your bracket by letting them know NOW who will be there in Orlando to "Walk The Walk" with them and "Bring It ON!" For the 2004 IKF North American Classic Title!

THURSDAY, July 29th, 2004, AT 7:45 PM, PT

Where Will YOU Be On August 13th, 14th & 15th?
Hopefully...
ORLANDO FLORIDA!
Where EVERYONE Who Is SOMEONE In North American KICKBOXING Will Be!

The 2004 IKF North American Amateur Kickboxing Classic is coming to The Wyndham Palace Resort and Spa in the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando Florida this coming August 13th, 14th and 15th! As of today, Thursday, August 29th there are 241 Amateur Kickboxers from the USA and Canada attending. Registration ends August 1st. This year there will be over 60 IKF Amateur Kickboxing Champions crowned. Are you going to be one of them? do you know any of them? To see what Amateur Kickboxers will be in Orlando at The Classic "Walking The Walk", click HERE!

The Host Hotel, the Wyndham Palace Resort and Spa in the Walt Disney World Resort will be this years host hotel. The Wyndham's EMPIRE BALLROOM is a beautiful 18,000 square foot venue Ballroom and will be set-up with 2 fight rings. The hotel itself is located 17 miles from the Orlando airport and has "3" Pools, Sauna, full Fitness Center, Steam Rooms, outdoor whirlpools, Tennis Courts, Volleyball, Basketball, Hot Tubs and Massage Therapy Center.

The IKF Classic is truly the "Golden Gloves" for amateur kickboxing. It is the incubator for the future of the sport and has produced such Pro Stars as K-1 USA Champion Carter "The Beast" Williams of California, Woman's Pro Boxing World Champions, Trisha "TNT" Hill of Georgia and Sunshine Fettkether of Arizona, UFC and K-1 Max Champion Star Duane "Bang" Ludwig of Colorado, Actor/Model Jason Johnson of Wisconsin and undefeated Pro Fighter Stephen "Wonderboy" Thompson of South Carolina.

Both Williams and Thompson
Will be Special Guests at this years event.
To see who some of the past Champions have been from this event click HERE.

Over 170 bouts will be fought on Saturday and Sunday to determine who are THE BEST Amateur Kickboxers in North America! Over 100 preliminary bouts will be held Saturday from 9:10 AM until approximately 5:00 PM. All IKF North American Classic CHAMPIONSHIP Bouts will take place on Sunday starting at 9:15 AM.
Tickets are $15 for Saturday, $20.00 for Sunday or a two day ticket for $30.00.
Ticket info can be found by clicking HERE.

Friends, Family and Fans are welcome to get the IKF Kickboxing reduced Hotel Rate of only $89.00 per night. Hotel info can be found by clicking HERE.
For a full weekend schedule click HERE.
We still have space for vendor booths, program ads and other sponsorship. For more info click HERE.
For more information contact us at (916) 663-2467 or by e-mail at main@IKFKickboxing.com.
We look forward to seeing you there!

The BEST Of The BEST!
WHO WILL "Walk The Walk" In 2004?
Here are THE BEST of THE BEST Amateur Kickboxers in North America
That Will Be IN THE HOUSE In ORLANDO!...
- Along With Some Photos Of The Past Tournament Champions Mentioned Above -

TEAM Arizona -7-
Clifford Larson, Barret Myers, Corina Smith, Diana Apressa, Ernesto Sierra, Rodolfo Carrillo, Rochelle Williams

TEAM Arkansas -18-
Todd Sinclair, Daniel Dring Jr., Thomas Eppley III, Adam Caldwell, William Evans, Matt Puckett, Leslie Spence, David Oudthone, Micah Hughes, R. J. Standridge, Caleb Manry, Jordan Smith, Allie Oudthone, Mercedes Mallonee, Kayla Oudthone, Casey Parker, Christopher Thompson, William Suddeth

TEAM California -11-
Robert Elledge, Floyd Savoy, Nathan Smith, Dan Ash, Jim Chapman, Rick Cheek, David Denison Hugues Ronin Sato, Andrew Morello, Mike Morello, Chris Cope

TEAM Colorado -7-
David Barrios, Rob Graff, Mark Korzenlowski, Shale Lepage, Jin Kim, Amber Kim Mike Baldwin

TEAM Florida -3-
David Lowrey, Lonnie Bowen, Scott Mukaddam

TEAM Georgia -26-
Zakk Cumbess, Andrew Kloster, Mark Adams, Joel Weldon, Brenda Harrison, Lavren Whitfield, Rachelle Heslop, Susan Wood, Kathy Hagler, Nathan McCall, Billy Heslop, Terrie Hicks, John Greubel, Sonja Crader, Rolando Luna, Yahosuah Yahudah, Brian Robertson, Jonathan Courson, John Sosebee, David Lewis, Travis Jones, Bobby Smith, Hector Arbos, Jason Beck, Jason Barrett, Cole Miller

TEAM Idaho -4-
Mario Solis Jr., Bianca Solis, Megan PFliiger, Taylor Waite

TEAM Illinois -26-
Michael Dean, Jackson Aren, Alfredo Torres, Laryssa Zarate, Sarah Ross, Mike Speltz, Danielle Byrne, Becky Spelz, Konrad Kubicki, Savo Njegomirovic, Alex Desnica, Dyana Njegomirovic, Alex Vanatta, John Taylor, Luis Rivera, Ruben Sapaula, Stephanie Mariscal, Santiago Hernandez, Angelo Rivera Jr., Jose Maroscal, Jorge Soto, Nicholas Mariscal, Paul Kaczmarek, Jeffery Bybee, Scott Biggerstaff, Simon Butler

TEAM Indiana -7-
Tammy Anderson, Kathleen Bem, Jill Schmidt, Kevin Elmore, James Shin, Brian Mahan, John Castle

TEAM Iowa -13-
Haley Rothmeyer, Jayme Brower, Chuck Baxter, David Flurry, Luke Lessei, Michael Blake, Austin Thomas, Jerica Veach, Lauren Herrig, Kayla Carpenter, Mariah Betts, Maryann Flury, Joel Merrick

TEAM Michigan -9-
Lee Williams, Jason Moore, Dan Pemble, Charles Pemble, Zein AL-Ziyadi, Anne Galligan, Ronell Huston, Steve Radinski, David Knaggs

TEAM Minnesota -1-
Petyon Russell

TEAM Mississippi -3-
Victor Rollison, Joey Miller, Joseph Arrexi

TEAM New York -2-
Jenny Foster, Gus Indjeyianis

TEAM North Carolina -6-
Glen Spencer Jr., Tyler Price, David Kanoy, Ariel Price, Kevin Nedly, Michael Harris

TEAM Oklahoma -2-
Megan Capraro, Pahose Harjo
TEAM Pennsylvania -3-
Jenna Droluk, Patrick Lynch, Michael McMullen

TEAM South Carolina -10-
Brad Taylor, Adrian Turpin, Brendan Carpenter, Lori Burney, Becki Halloran, Jared Scoggins, Justin Scoggins, Jacob Scoggins, Dallas Crowe, Shannon Hudson

TEAM Tennessee -3-
Herman Taylor, David Saunders, Brian Wells

TEAM Texas -13-
John Vakidis, Mike Fenerty, Christian Morales, Tommy Alcozer Jr., Javier Buentello, Julio Ramirez, Anthony Gonzales, Gilbert Garcia, Yvette Renteria, William Lucero III, Amiel Alcozer, Christopher Salinas, Freddie Espiricueta

TEAM Utah -5-
David Foley, Jerome Isaacs, Robert Wallace, Daniel Green, Tandi Ogden

TEAM Virginia -31-
Nelson Lebron, Brent Hess, Steve Mann, Bahseem Peterson, Kuang Wang, Katie Davis, Nick Fento, Ben Russell, Roger Belch, Nick Pisciotta, Tony Monaco, Travis Quails, Chris Barrineau, Christina Monaco, Kristyn Campbell, Nicole Hess, Darryl Wood, Edward Robinson, Kevin Dusza, Nick Manthey, Damien Hatcher, Christopher Meeks, Adam Jones, Michael Holcomb, Dean Lavin, Matthew Thomas, David Thomas, Justin Steckler, Umaer Haq, Michael Davenport, Marty Hall

TEAM Washington -1-
Elizabeth Nagy

TEAM Wisconsin -10-
Ryan Hayden, Joshua Zimmerman, Sharlyn Fellenz, Jennifer Thyssen, Stephanie Kernan, Cameron Monyelle, Chad Monyelle, Devin Smith, Rose Poli, Bill Jardine

TEAM Ontario, Canada -8-
Tyson Miagi, Yury Evsyunin, Christina Cassie, Diane Market, Josie Novielli, John Nash, Katelyn Turner, Megan Kelly

TEAM Quebec, Canada -3-
Desni Boisvert, Danny Descoteaux, Enzo Tremblay

TEAM Alberta, Canada -6-
Phil Leier, Jesse Miles, Jason Cutbill, Scott Clark, Darren Snell, Shelley Evans

NO Fighters Qualified From:
USA States: Alabama, Alaska, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia, Wyoming.
Canada: Manitoba, Saskatchewan, British Columbia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland.
Mexico, Bermuda, Greenland, Puerto Rico or theVirgin Islands.

WEDNESDAY, July 28th, 2004, AT 10:05 PM, PT

He's Baaaaaaack......

Refueled &
Ready For Takeoff!
Rick
"The Jet"
Roufus
Returns To The Ring!

Scottsdale, Arizona, USA: Today the IKF received a call informing us that former 2 time IKF World Champion Rick "The Jet" Roufus will be returning to the ring this August in a 3 round Superfight at Scott Coker's K-1 USA event in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA. Roufus will face Akebono of Japan. Roufus has won 6 World titles in 6 different weightclasses.

"I'm looking forward to coming back, it's the right fight and the right time and timing is everything. I had to put my priorities in a different order before and even now." Says the 38 year old Roufus. He continues, "Now that I have my own gym which is operating successfully, now is the time for this. Its time to accomplish something I've been wanting to do which is get back in the ring. I'm settled enough to be able to put my focus on such a bout and looking forward to the challenge ahead of me and to answer back to all the critics out there...Simply put, "The Jet is BACK!"

The 38 year old Roufus is now living in Scottsdale Arizona with wife Michelle and 15 month old daughter Kylene. As far as what will happen after this bout Roufus says he's not looking ahead. He's just taking it one bout at a time and right now, This is the Bout!

Akebono is a former Sumo grand champion and the first foreign born sumo wrestler to earn the title of Yokozuna (Grand Champion). The 64th Yokozuna, stands 6'7" and use to weigh over 500 lbs. in his sumo days. In comparing him to some of the big men in K-1, he is the same height as Bob Sapp but outweighed him by somewhere in the neighborhood of 100 lbs. Akebono retired from Sumo in 2001.

Last December, 2003 he fought Bob Sapp (Right). From the bell, Sapp rushed in, Beast-style, but Akebono was effective in pushing him back, Sumo-style. Akebono then attempted a low kick, but Sapp got in close and brought up the knee. An Akebono left uppercut looked good, but as the round wore on, Sapp, for perhaps the first time in his K-1 career, had more stamina than his opponent. "The Beast" threw some nice low kicks, and when a fatigued Akebono relaxed his guard, got a solid left punch through that stunned the Sumo wrestler. It was a right hook that sent Akebono to the canvas for the first down. But to his credit, Akebono struggled to his feet to beat the count. Akebono came back with another pushing attack, but Sapp answered this with a left straight punch and then a right hook to put the big guy down for good.

MORE NEWS OF 7-28-04

The Lights Go Out In Arizona...
But Not From A Bartinelli Left Hook!

IKF Phoenix, Arizona, USA: IKF Promoter Clement Vierra (R) was all set to host another night of Kickboxing at the Rodeo Nights Night Club in Phoenix Arizona last night but some unfortunate circumstances made for some bad news. Vierra held his event weigh-in's on Monday and the bad news started there... Scheduled to fight IKF Pro World Champion Anthony Bartinelli in a 10 round non title bout was Keith Nesbitt (L, Rochester, New York, USA). Everyone here was surprised that Nesbitt was the only one willing to step up and fight Bartinelli not just because of who he was but because he doesn't weigh anything close to Bartinelli. Still Nesbitt convinced and promised Vierra he would come in within weight of Bartinelli. Well, so much for promises...

Nesbitt didn't make the required weight, heck, he wasn't even close. He weighted in at only 150 lbs. to Bartinelli's 168 lbs. Nesbitt's failure forced the bout to be scheduled as a 3 round exhibition instead of a "Real" 10 round bout. Still, Vierra paid for Nesbitt's plane ticket from New York along with his hotel and meals and paid him 20% of his purse which he "CLEARLY" did not deserve! In fact, according to IKF Rules and Regulations, Nesbitt owes Vierra "ALL" of his travel expenses and could be liable for much more due to being a "Professional" fighter who did not make his weight.

According to Vierra, Nesbitt of course new the weight requirement before he except the match. "If he could not make the weight he should never have accepted the bout let alone made the trip!" Said Vierra. Now Vierra is out the airfare, hotel and meal money but we are sure we have not heard the end of this yet.

Making things worse, Pro kickboxer James Martinez out of New Mexico did not make his weight either. Although the "Contracted Weight" was 150 lbs, Martinez weighed in at 154 lbs. Once off the scale he immediately started drinking his fluids. Then his opponent Jason Cleveland weight in and making matters worse, he only made 143 lbs. Vierra of course was extremely upset with Martinez. "How could he possible be a professional!" Said Vierra. He continued, "All the professional fighters I know always wait to see their opponent weigh-in and make sure they make weight before drinking fluids. He then refused to loose the weight and refused to give up any of his purse money to Jason if they were to agree on a weight. Cleveland has had his last 3 opponents either cancel or not make weight!"

Vierra paid for all of James Martinez's medicals that was supposed to be deducted out of his purse not including flying him in and his trainer and paying for their hotel and meals. "I think that Martinez should be suspended from fighting!" Said a very angered Vierra.

Still, all this had little effect on the Tuesday night card. The event was canceled due to a power outage. The fight is now rescheduled to next week. Vierra will need to find a new opponent for Bartenalli and for a few other fighters. "I am extremely upset with the lack of professionalism with the 2 individuals stated above." Said Vierra. For more info such as ticket outlets please contact Mr. Vierra at (602) 722-3216 or by e-mail at HARDKNOCKSGYM@aol.com

MORE NEWS OF 7-28-04

Comparing The Numbers... AGAIN

The Clock is ticking and there are only 17 days until Prelim Saturday. Don't ask us if the pressure is on. It's STRESS CITY around here! We seem to be more busy at this time for this years event than we have ever been so if we seem short when we answer the phone, It's probably because we have someone else on hold and another person calling in... Not to mention trying to get work done around the office in preparation for the event.

See below "Where we are as of today" as compared to the "FINAL" numbers from last years 2003 IKF/TKO Nationals.

MORE NEWS OF 7-28-04

POSTED AT 11:50 AM, PT

EXPLOSIVE!
"Punch - Kick - Throw!"
There is No Other Way To Describe Cung Le's Born To Fight IV!
July 24th, Mt. Pleasant High School, San Jose California, USA

It's not often when a World Champion fighter becomes a promoter, but for some, such a transition becomes natural... Along with a lot of hard work and of course TEAMWORK! When you have fought on some of the most explosive shows in the world it's hopefully natural that you can bring that kind of excitement to your own events. Well everyone, that is exactly what IKF Pro San Shou World Champion Cung Le (R) did this last weekend.

Le along with a "DYNAMIC" Team/Staff organized and promoted his best event ever if you are looking for "TRUE" San Shou "Explosive Excitement!" Team Le, or better yet, "Team USH!" hosted a daytime San Shou tournament that brought fighters from all over USA and followed it up with a "KNOCKOUT" blow with a "16" bout "Super Fight" Night with 4 IKF US Amateur Title bouts (5 were scheduled but one of the fighters pulled out during the show). If you didn't know what San Shou was before the night, you sure as heck did when the final bell sounded. Here are the highlights of the nights bouts beginning with of course, the nights Title Bouts followed by the "EXPLOSIVE" undercard.

IKF Amateur Woman's San Shou U.S. Super Welterweight Title
By the time Elaina Maxwell of Cung Le's club in San Jose, California USA (3-1 / 10-1, 148, 5'7", 25) and Melissa Alley of Napa, California USA were scheduled to enter the ring there had already been 10 "EXPLOSIVE" (Have we used that word too much...? Well, get use to it for this show...) undercard bouts and from them.. Well, lets just say, things had changed. First some background here... Alley was a last minute, and we do mean last minute (2 days before the event) fill in because Maxwell's original opponent pulled out. Some quick phone calls made by several people and Alley was booked for the fight. Where things got "Shady" was when we all found out at weigh-ins that Alley was not as she was presented. We were told Alley (145, 5'6", 24) had some fight (4-0) experience and was a woman's MMA fighter etc. etc. Well, simply put, all this was not true. Still, Alley appeared to be tough and ready to go "Toe to Toe" with Maxwell... or, should we say "She thought she was.." The next day the day tournament unfolded (Which as you will read below, made another fighter look at the sport of "San Shou" a little differently with more respect...) several watched and got a first hand look at what the "USH! Team" calls "Punch - Kick - Throw." Oh sure, it sounds basic... About as basic as Bruce Le saying "A punch is just a punch, a kick is just a kick...". By the time the "Super Bouts" started it Alley and her trainer Paul Heinke were watching at ringside to get a closer look at what San Shou really is. Well, to say the least... Alley was shocked and amazed at what takes place in a San Shou bout... On top of that, it wasn't like she was fighting a beginner. Maxwell was the 2003 World Wushu Gold Medal Champion and no stranger to this sport that Alley found herself in the middle of. In a way, what happened next was probably the best thing for Alley, Maxwell and all in attendance. Alley pulled herself from her bout with Maxwell and Maxwell was awarded the IKF Amateur Woman's San Shou U.S. Super Middleweight Title by *forfeit.
(*) IKF Rule: If one of the opponents in a Title Bout pulls out of the fight within 48 hours of the scheduled bout, the other fighter is awarded the title so their hard work and preparation does not go un-rewarded.

IKF Amateur San Shou U.S. Middleweight Title
With the Maxwell Vs Alley bout out of the picture it was up to Josh Beauregard of New York, NY, USA (NYKK, 9-0/0, 163, 5'10", 27) and Kevin Ruelas of San Jose, California, USA (6-2/0, 163, 5'10", 26) to start off the IKF San Shou Title action. This bout came with tons of excitement from both fighters, unfortunately for Ruelas though, Beauregard got the biggest cheers from the crowd in the first 2 rounds. A left hook by Beauregard in the opening round sent Ruelas to the canvas which forced a standing a count. Still, in "San Shou Rules" a standing 8 count is not that bad because of the scoring system. Beauregard was given 2 points for the shot and the action resumed. In the end, Beauregard pulled out the round by as little as 1 point on all 3 judges cards.
In round 2, Beauregard delivered another crushing shot. This time a straight right hand that sent Ruelas to the canvas again. After the count the two were at it again "Toe to Toe!" By rounds end Beauregard got the nod from 2 of the 3 judges. Rounds 3 and 4 were filled with plenty of excitement and both were easily in this one all the way but it would be Beauregard who would pull this one out in the end by split decision to win the vacant IKF Amateur San Shou U.S. Middleweight Title.

IKF Amateur San Shou U.S. Welterweight Title
Earlier this year IKF Official Dan Stell made the trip to oversee an IKF event in Utah where he saw a fighter named Boy Faphiamai (8-1/0, 144, 5'7", 19). When Stell returned he had nothing but praise about the young 19 year old fighter. However, with a father named "Boonkard", (Multi time Thai Champion with over 100 bouts.. heck it could be more like over 300...) things start to become more clear... Faphiamai seemed to be more than a worthy opponent to face Jose Palacios of San Jose, California, USA (7-1/5, 145) for the vacant IKF Amateur San Shou U.S. Welterweight Title. However, when the opening bell rang, some surprises were in store for Faphiamai. Within 15 seconds Palacios had him over his head in true "Cung Le San Shou form" and dropped him to the canvas from about 5 feet up. Faphiamai was quickly up and ready for the challenge... Or the next drop... Seconds later Faphiamai was over the top of Palacios head again and as he was dropped to the ring canvas this time he landed square on the top of his head. Shock went through us all at ringside fearing Faphiamai had broken his neck as he lay on the mat. California State Athletic Commission doctors rushed into the ring where upon their arrival they discovered Faphiamai's neck was fine, it was his ankle that was injured. Faphiamai had been reminded of an old injury and could not even stand on his ankle. The ringside doctors thought it could be fractured. Needless to say, in only 37 seconds, Palacios was awarded the vacant IKF Amateur San Shou U.S. Welterweight Title by KO and all we could hope for was a potential future rematch.

IKF Amateur Woman's San Shou Featherweight Title
There is always a certain fighter at every Cung Le event that seems to have the hearts of the crowd every time. we can't imagine why. She loves the fans, especially the kids. She's exciting to watch, charismatic, and of course, when it comes to San Shou, she's "Explosive!" Which is why we don't understand how anyone could enjoy watching IKF Amateur San Shou US Champion Jenna Castillo fight... Woops... I think we just explained why... Castillo of San Jose, California, USA (10-*1/1, 125, 5'2", 22) already won the IKF Woman's Amateur San Shou Bantamweight title when she defeated Christine Yandolli of New York, USA by unanimous decision back on December 15th, 2001. So to her, she was in familiar territory. Her opponent across the ring was familiar too. Castillo and Elizabeth DeCaussin of Los Angeles, California, USA (3-2/0, 128, 5'8", 24) had already met twice before and both times Castillo came out on top. Well, it was no different tonight. Castillo scored big on punches in round 3 and 4 which were her strongest rounds which saw her also force IKF Referee Dan Stell to give DeCaussin a standing 8 in round 4. In the end it was clear that Castillo was now a two time IKF Amateur US Champion as she won the vacant IKF Amateur Woman's San Shou Featherweight Title by unanimous decision.
(*) A star appears near Castillo's 1 loss because someone informed us it was revised to a draw. However the IKF has not made any such decision in the past or as of press time.

IKF Amateur San Shou U.S. Super Lightweight Title
Did we mention how popular Jenna Castillo is to the San Jose California crowd? Well, if so, we can't forget to mention how even more popular Cung Le fighter and school Trainer Ed Carpio of San Jose, California, USA (11-5/0, 134, 5'5", 31) is. Carpio is a major crowd favorite and has proved his worth time and time again. This was the Main Event and for all intensive purposes it was suppose to be "Ed's Night" since it was Cung Le's event and Carpio is one of the TOP USH! Team Stars. However, Le does not just look for anyone for his fighters to fight to prove their worth. He searches to find the best available and this time it came from an unfamiliar location. Just down the road in San Francisco, California from a MuayThai gym. Enter Chris Cariaso of San Francisco, California, USA (10-3/2, 137, 5'4", 23). If the phrase "Dynamite comes in small packages" has to fit tonight, it's with Cariaso. Simply put, "THIS WAS A WAR!" these guys went "Toe to Toe" the entire fight and it was clearly the best Battle of the night! In the opening round Carpio appeared to be on his way to an easy San Shou Schooling of Cariaso as he picked him up over his head and slammed him to the mat. However Cariaso was quickly up and ready to "Bring it ON!" Well "Bring it ON" was what BOTH these guys did! So how close was this bout? in the rounds scored these two were never more than 3 or 4 scored points apart. It would go the distance and when the final bell rang, all awaited the decision which went to Cariaso in a very close split decision.

Here's how the nights "Explosive" undercard went...

1. Nick Glowacki of San Jose, California, USA, 1-1/0, 132, 5'8", 20, defeated Gem Mil Langit of San Francisco, California, USA, 0-2/0, 135, 5'5", by split decision.
2. Rebecca De La Motte of San Francisco, California, USA 1-0/0, 120, 5'9", 23, defeated Ailene Miller of San Francisco, California, USA, 0-2/0, 117, 5'4", 32 by unanimous decision.
3. Andrew Valladarez of San Jose, California, USA, 5-0/1, 122, 5'6", 17 defeated Jeff Toledo of Santa Clara, California, USA, 0-1, 118, 5'6", 18 by Knockout at 1:56 of round 2 with a strong knee to the solar plexus.
4. Thomas McElory of Oakland, California, USA, 3-0/1, 159, 5'8", 40, and Marcelino Miguel of Santa Clara, California, USA, 0-1/0, 164, 5'11", 25 had some "Explosive" moments in their bout. Miguel forced McElory to a standing 8 count in round 1 but it just seemed to fire McElory up more. These guys had an EXPLOSIVE round 2! Other than his 8 count, McElory was impressive in all 3 rounds and we thought even more so when we were told he was 40 years old! WOW! This guy looked and fought like a seasoned 25 year old. In the end, McElory made all us "Older" guys look bad as he took this one over the 15 years younger Miguel by unanimous decision.
5. Duncan Duffin of San Jose, California, USA, 10-6/0, 139, 5'6", 35, defeated Hugh Brasher of Houston, Texas, USA, 4-1/0, 138, 5'9", 20 by unanimous decision.
6. Despite being schooled by Sam Spangler of San Jose, California, USA, 2-1/0, 188, 5'11", 28, in round 1, Mike Fonseca of San Francisco, California, USA, 1-0/0, 188, 5'9", 29, came back in rounds 2 and 3 to meet the challenge. This was one of the closest bouts of the night but surly wasn't the cleanest. In one round, Spangler went to the ground and Fonseca kicked him in the head. Lucky for Fonseca that California State Athletic Commission referee Marcos Rosales missed it and made no foul call. In the end, Fonseca pulled this one out by a narrow unanimous decision 2 rounds to 1 on all 3 judges cards.
7. Bout 7 was suppose to match up Brian Schoppnann of Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, 2-0/2, 158, against John Uhl of Napa, California, USA, 1-0/0, 155. However, it's possible Schoppnann got a case of the Melissa Alley's as explained above. After weighing in Friday night, Schoppnann spent the day Saturday watching the San Shou Day Tournament. After watching most of it, he informed the USH! Team that he had "Somehow" hurt his shoulder and couldn't fight... Strange... Well, if he was worried about the rules of San Shou and what his opponent Uhl could have done to him, maybe he should have did some background checking... Uhl is trained by the same trainer Melissa Alley works with, Paul Heinke, and Uhl had no idea how to fight San Shou either...
8. Jeff Gonzalez of Santa Clara, California, USA, 1-2/0, 176, 6', 22, landed a great headkick that dropped his opponent Tim O'Connor of New York, New York, USA, 1-1/1, 171, 5'11", 25, in round 3 which put a close to a great performance. Gonzalez took the win by unanimous decision.
9. When Kenny Woo of San Jose, California, USA, 2-0/0, 141, 5'7", 22 and Chris Hom of San Francisco, California, USA 1-1/1, 142, 5'7", 25, came to the center ring after their fight, Hom was announced the winner by split decision in a bout many of us thought was clearly Woo's... Especially the crowd. However, when we checked the scorecards after the commission, we discovered that judge Marcos Rosales made an error on his card. The correction moved his card back in favor of Woo who was re-announced as the actual winner by split decision. To say the least, this didn't go over too well with Hom's team, which is expected of anyone under these circumstances. All we can say is that on behalf of everyone involved, we are sorry this bout was announced as it was, but we are proud that we did the right thing by making the needed correction.
10. Richey Council of Bellefontaine, Ohio, USA, 8-1, 174, 5'11", defeated Matt Cataleta of Oakland, California, USA, 5-4/2, 175, 6'2", 33, by unanimous decision 3 rounds to 0.
11. Ian Morgan of New York, New York, USA, 4-2/1, 147, 5'7", 22, defeated Evan Esguerra of San Francisco, California, USA, 6-2/0, 144, 5'7", 26 by unanimous decision 3 rounds to 0.

For more info go to www.borntofight.com - www.cungle.com
Or contact Team Cung Le - USH! at (408) 729-4468 or by e-mail at info@borntofight.com or at patty@cungle.com

MONDAY, July 26th, 2004, AT 7:30 PM, PT

"POWERHOUSE"
Is Back In The Ring While
Terry & Montano Go For IKF Gold!

Phoenix, Arizona, USA: Tomorrow night, Tuesday, July 27th at the Rodeo Nights, night club in Phoenix, Arizona, USA, IKF FCR Light Middleweight World Champion Anthony "Powerhouse" Bartinelli (R) will go to War with Keith Nesbitt in an non title 10 round fight. Bartinelli is looking forward to this fight because it's been some time since his last kickboxing match.

Also on the card is an IKF Light Heavyweight Arizona State Title with Christopher Terry of Phoenix, Arizona, USA, (10-3/7) Vs. Oscar Montano of Surprise, Arizona, USA(10-5/4). This should also be a Great match up.

The under card has one more pro kickboxing match with Jason Cleveland from Rick Roufus Kickboxing Gym Vs. James Martinez from Mike Winklejohn's kickboxing from New Mexico. Also two pro boxing matches.

There will be four amateur kickboxing matches:
Efrem Martinez (Roufus Kickboxing) Vs. Dannis Marquez (Winklejohn Kickboxing)

Richie Hightower (Roufus Kickboxing) Vs. Steve Steinbeiss (ACS)

Josh Pickthall (Roufus Kickboxing) Vs. Shane Brenner (Golden Cobra Kickboxing)

Abu Marshall (Roufus Kickboxing) Vs. TBA

For more info such as ticket outlets please contact Mr. Vierra at (602) 722-3216 or by e-mail at HARDKNOCKSGYM@aol.com

POSTED AT 3:00 PM, PT

MORE NEWS OF 6-26-04

Message Board
Proves HELPFUL...
AGAIN!
Seeding Changes Due To Registration Deadlines CORRECTED

Despite the occasional no name posts about negative issues, there are some no name posts on the message board that "DO" bring attention to things we need to correct. Such was the case today in the post that read:

Posted by Kickboxing fan on July 26, 2004 at 09:21:54:
Can you explain to me how you do the seeding for late participants? I thought that I read somewhere that if you registered late you will be put at the bottom at of the bracket. That was the incentive of meeting the deadlines and not allowing fighters to pick soft brackets and easy titles!

SO RIGHT this person was and we apologize for not remembering this when we were seeding the fighters after July 10th. This question was also asked of us in some e-mails today which drew our attention to the message board. The information this person is referring to was written on the News Page on Friday, May 21st under the headline, "SEEDING & CHAMPION Answers In Regards To This Years 2004 IKF/TKO North American Classic". The same article was also posted the same day on the Tournament News page. In regards to this question, it reads:
#8: BOTTOM SEED IN DIVISION: Any of the above but registered AFTER the first Registration Deadline of July 10th This year ALL fighters who register AFTER the first Registration Deadline of July 10th will not only be charged a late fee, but also be seeded at the bottom of their division. This rule applies to ALL CHAMPIONS too.

This obviously changes several seeding positions for quite a few fighters. Still, it was a good idea when we created this rule and still a good rule today for the reasons stated above. We suggest everyone re-check their seeding now so they know where they are and we look forward to seeing you all in a few weeks in Orlando Florida to "Walk The Walk and Bring It ON!"

SUNDAY, July 25th, 2004, AT 4:10 PM, PT

CUNG LE'S
BORN TO FIGHT IV!
July 24th, Mt. Pleasant High School, San Jose California, USA
Quick Title Results Below - Full Story & Undercard Results This Week!

IKF Amateur Woman's San Shou U.S. Super Welterweight Title
Elaina Maxwell won by forfeit when opponent, Melissa Alley of Napa, CA, (Who was a fill in matched on Thursday, July 22nd who replaced a previous opponent.) pulled out of the fight after weigh-ins.

IKF Amateur San Shou U.S. Middleweight Title
Josh Beauregard defeated Kevin Ruelas by split decision in a bout that saw Beauregard give 2 standing 8 counts to Ruelas from a left hook in round 1 and a straight right in round 2.

IKF Amateur San Shou U.S. Welterweight Title
Despite Jose Palacios picking up challenger Boy Faphiamai over his head and slamming him to the ring canvas twice in the first 30 seconds, Palacios actually won the bout by injury stoppage at 37 seconds into the first round. Faphiamai injured (Possible Fracture) his right ankle during one of his kicks to Palacios.

IKF Amateur Woman's San Shou Featherweight Title
Jenna Castillo won yet another IKF Amateur San Shou title when she defeated Elizabeth DeCaussin by unanimous decision. This was the third meeting of these two.

IKF Amateur San Shou U.S. Super Lightweight Title
Chris Cariaso defeated Ed Carpio in a close split decision in what was truly the best "Toe to Toe" war of the night!

For more info go to www.borntofight.com - www.cungle.com or contact Team Cung Le - USH! at (408) 729-4468 or by e-mail at info@borntofight.com or at patty@cungle.com

MORE NEWS OF 7-25-04

JUNIOR DIVISIONS
Proof Of Age

This is a reminder for all Junior age fighters and their parents and trainers coming to the IKF North American Classic in August in Orlando, Florida. As in the past, "ALL" JUNIOR Division fighters (Ages 8-17) are required to bring a COPY of their birth certificate or a STATE PHOTO ID to be shown to the IKF Registration staff at Friday's Registration to CONFIRM their age. A "Copy" of a Junior age fighters birth certificate will be accepted, a "State Photo ID" would of course be much better and greatly appreciated by those providing them.
As brought up recently on the Message Board: As for the worry of someone making changes to their child's/students birth certificate just so their child/fighter could fight younger, less experienced fighters is simply the lowest thing we can imagine. We can only hope here, in the IKF that no parent or trainer would stoop so low. We can only hope that "HONOR AND HONESTY" are still apart of our sport.

If they do not have a birth certificate or other form of LEGAL ID stating their legal age at registration and we cannot confirm their LEGAL age by any LEGAL document, they will be dropped from the Tournament.
PLEASE DO NOT ASK FOR EXCEPTIONS TO THIS RULE
AND PLEASE PASS THIS INFO AROUND.
Sincerely IKF Headquarters

MORE NEWS OF 7-25-04

Comparing The Numbers
AGAIN TODAY

See below "Where we are as of today" as compared to the "FINAL" numbers from last years 2003 IKF/TKO Nationals.

SATURDAY, July 17th, 2004, AT 3:50 PM, PT

Comparing The Numbers

Many have asked where this years Tournament compares to this years. Well, what we can tell you is that last year on July 17th, 2003 we had 179 Fighters Registered. For this year, as of today we have 182. See below "Where we are as of today" as compared to the "FINAL" numbers from last years 2003 IKF/TKO Nationals.

FRIDAY, July 16th, 2004, AT 3:25 PM, PT

THIS WEEKEND IN THE IKF!

"REVENGE OF THE WARRIOR"
"Rumble In The Dome"

IKF Orlando, Florida, USA: This Saturday night, July 17th the IKF will sanction an event in the State of Florida. Nothing new right...? Well, actually it is. Back in May of this year the State of Florida made a new law that all amateur Kickboxing Events had to be sanctioned by an approved Amateur Sanctioning Body. After the IKF presented their Rules and Regulations to Jason Penley, Assistant Executive Director of the Florida State Boxing Commission back in mid June the IKF was approved on July 7th to be an Amateur Kickboxing Sanctioning body in the State of Florida.

Upon this approval the IKF was contacted by this weekends Promoter of "REVENGE OF THE WARRIOR - Rumble In The Dome," Dieusel Berto.Berto has been doing events on a regular basis in Florida and he looks to be a new IKF Promoter. Several other Florida Promoters have also contacted the IKF inquiring about IKF Sanctioning for their Florida Amateur Kickboxing events with the IKF.

Berto's event is an all Amateur Kickboxing card. He had previously planned to do Amateur Boxing too but those plans changed. There will also be 1 woman's submission grappling match on the event along with the Kickboxing. Serving as Official IKF Event Representative will be already established IKF Florida Promoter, Lee Barden (Right).

The event will take place at the Haven Orange Dome in Winter Haven, Florida, USA tickets are $15, $20 and $30. Doors open at 5:PM and the event begins at 7:PM. For more info please contact Mr. Dieusel "Tiger" Berto at tigersworldma@yahoo.com Or Go To www.tigersworld.net or rumbleinthedome.com

MORE NEWS OF 7-16-04

POSTED AT 11:10 AM, PT

ATTENTION
2004 IKF North American Classic
TRAINERS & FIGHTERS

As of today we have started matchmaking suggestions. We have completed the first phase for the Junior Divisions and will be working on the Adult Divisions (Mens & Woman's) later today and tomorrow. Please understand that although you may not like some of our suggestions, we have 5 years of matchmaking experience for this tournament (Over 20 years overall on events in general) so our suggestions are fare and valid. We ask that all trainers or fighters respond as soon as possible to all suggestions so we know where you stand and how we can list you.

In this process when trying to match up fighters we ask for certain fighters to move up rather than down in weight which is easier for most. Some though will be asked to lose weight and move down. Also, when fighters do not have other contenders in their rule styles, we will suggest for them to move to a different rule style. Although it is viable for an International Rules fighter to move to MuayThai, we never ask a Full Contact Rules fighter to move to leg kicks simply because Full Contact style fighters do not train doing leg kicks. In the end, we will never make everyone happy, but at least in the end, by event time you will know if you have a bout, rather than make the trip for nothing.

ALSO: Trainers, please feel free to contact others in your suggested divisions to discuss rule style changes, weight class changes etc. etc. You are all professionals and sometimes you can come up with better solutions than we may offer, so simply put, we are all ears. Please e-mail us any suggestions you may have after speaking to other trainers at main@ikfkickboxing.com
Keep in mind that we have spoken to many trainers and fighters who still plan to send their registrations in so keep track of the brackets, watching for new contenders. Thank you for your assistance and we look forward to seeing you all in Orlando to "Walk The Walk!"

MONDAY, July 12th, 2004, AT 10:20 AM, PT

Alex Ramos Sends Message To
The Governor Of Kentucky Ernie Fletcher
CLICK HERE!

SATURDAY, July 10th, 2004, AT 7:30 PM, PT

REVISED AT 9:25 PM

By First Deadline
NAC Sees 119 Registered Fighters!

FIRST ROUND IS OVER!
"Ding Ding!" Stop the clock for round 1. The first deadline of 5:PM today, July 10th, for this years 2004 IKF North American Classic is here. For those who felt "Waiting around to see who is in your division" was a good idea, you will now have to pay the first established late fee of $30.00 on top of your registration fee. This fee can be sent in with your registration, paid by mail between now and August 1st or paid at the event when you register on Friday, August 13th. To see if your registration made it to us on time go to the Registered Fighters Page and check for your name. The next deadline date is July 15th. If you miss that date your late fee will go up to $50.00.

NO NEW DIVISIONS
Something to note is that we will NOT be creating any "NEW" divisions after today. If there has been no fighters registered in certain rule style weight divisions, those divisions have been closed. All late registering fighters must fit into the already established weight classes and rule divisions as currently shown on each registration page.

WHERE WE STAND TODAY
This years 2004 IKF North American Classic will take place on August 13th, 14th and 15th in Orlando Florida. as of 5:PM today the count sits at 119 registered fighters. For those wondering, this number is 5 more than at "First" deadline time last year which was 114. Still, this does not mean this years event will have the turnout like last years 200 fighters. Only time will tell for that answer. Regardless there will be some great talent at this years event which will include fighters from both USA and Canada.

WHICH STATE HAS THE MOST FIGHTERS?
Earlier this week the state of Arizona held a short lead as to the most registered fighters. However they were overtaken in the last 2 days by the state of Virginia with an outstanding representation of 20 Amateur fighters. Today we spoke to more camps from California to Georgia who all said they have registration forms coming in yet so we are sure to see more fighters added in soon. Starting next week we will begin request posting on the registered fighter pages to match all those registered up for the Finals. Here's how the standings set as of today below:

• USA
  1. Virginia -20-
  2. Georgia -12-
  3. Illinois -12-
  4. South Carolina -9-
  5. Arizona -7-
  6. Arkansas -7-
  7. Michigan -6-
  8. Utah -5-
  9. North Carolina -5-
  10. Wisconsin -5-
  11. Colorado -4-
  12. Texas -3-
  13. Tennessee -3-
  14. California -3-
  15. Florida -3-
  16. Iowa -3-
  17. Idaho -2-
  18. Minnesota -1-
  19. Pennsylvania -1-
• CANADA
  1. Ontario -8-

NEXT DEADLINES...
Please note that there are 4 different DEADLINE dates and as in the past, ALL of these Deadlines will be followed sharply. The first Registration Deadline was today, Saturday, July 10th, 2004. Registrations received (NOT POSTMARKED but PHYSICALLY RECEIVED) AFTER today will be charged the following additional late fees.

1. Registration Received between 12:01 AM July 11th, 2004 and 12:00 Midnight July 15th will be charged a $30 Late Fee.
2. Registration Received between 12:01 AM July 16th, 2004 and 12:00 Midnight July 23rd will be charged a $50 Late Fee.
3. Registration Received between 12:01 AM July 23rd, 2004 and 12:00 Midnight July 30th will be charged a flat fee of $100 To Register For The Classic "IF" Their Registration is accepted at all.

NO REGISTRATIONS ACCEPTED AFTER
AUGUST 1st, 2004

MORE NEWS OF 7-10-04

Muay Thai Institute
Of Kunponli
In Utah
Is Looking Forward To A Busy Summer!

Fly-in Camp
Get Great Muay Thai training in the spectacular mountain setting of Salt Lake City. Only 15 minutes away from the Salt Lake International Airport. Only 20 minutes away from incredible mountain resorts. Stay in our dorms at the Muay Thai Institute of Kunponli and enjoy hard-core authentic Thai box training. Intense bag work & pad work with top trainers Sakasem "The Punisher" Kanthawong and Craig "Dr. Psycho" Lamanna, as well as sparring. For the novice as well as the serious fighter. The camp includes full kitchen, showers, locker rooms, washer, dryer, and lounge area with Thai TV. Bring your own towels and bedding. Call to schedule. (801) 474-3136. Or email us at julie@thaiboxutah.com "This is by FAR, the most Incredible Training Facility I have EVER seen around the World." IKF President Steve Fossum.

F.A.S.T. DEFENSE Program
August 20-21, 2004. The next F.A.S.T. Defense class at the Muay Thai Institute of Kunponli will be August 20-21, 2004. This unique program is based on a step-by-step progression of easily learned and simply applied techniques in increasingly intense scenarios. In F.A.S.T. Defense, students learn how to:
*Handle the fear and adrenaline rush that occur naturally in a stressful situation.
*Fend off an attacker with simple techniques in intense scenarios.
*Use the power of voice and body language.
*Find and utilize the power of FEAR, not be paralyzed by it

COST: $95.00 for non-members, $65 for members
Call (801) 474-3136 to reserve a spot.
Muay Thai Institute of Kunponli
650 E. Wilmington Ave. Salt Lake City, UT, USA, 84106

July Sale
10% Off All AirMonkey
Belly Pads & Thai Leg Kick Pads

Top-of-the-line training gear from the exclusive AirMonkey line is now on sale! Belly Pads (Left) which are usually $54.99 are now only $49.50! Leg Kick Pads (Right) which are usually $99.99 are now only $89.99! See the official AIR MONKEY site at www.airmonkey.com or check out the Muay Thai Institute of Kunponli site at www.thaiboxutah.com

FRIDAY, July 9th, 2004, AT 12:30 PM, PT

Any Takers?
Bartinelli Looking For An Opponent
After Previously Booked Opponent Gets TKOed!

IKF Promoter Clement Vierra of Phoenix Arizona has an IKF Sanctioned event scheduled for July 27 at the Rodeo Nights Night Club in Phoenix, Arizona, USA. On the event Vierra was trying to get his fighter and current IKF Pro FCR Light Middleweight Champion Anthony Bartinelli (Kickboxing: 11-0/10 KO/TKO's, Boxing: 16-8-2/9 ko's) a good tune-up bout before making a challenge for the vacant IKF Pro FCR Super Middleweight title this fall.

So Vierra is now looking for an opponent for Bartinelli for his July 27th event in Arizona. He is in hopes of finding a fighter somewhere out west (Pacific or Mountain time zone) to save on travel expenses. So if you are a Pro FCR fighter around the Super Middleweight division, please contact Mr. Vierra at (602) 722-3216 or by e-mail at HARDKNOCKSGYM@aol.com

WEDNESDAY, July 7th, 2004, AT 11:40 AM, PT

IKF NORTH AMERICAN CLASSIC
Officials & Staff

As the 2004 IKF North American Classic Tournament comes closer and closer, we need to confirm all the event officials. If your name has already been added to the 2004 Officials List, please re-confirm for us that you will still be at the event by either calling us at (916) 663-2467 or by sending us an e-mail at main@ikfkickboxing.com If your name is not on the list and you would like to be one of the event Officials please let us know. Even if you have fighters at the event, you can still assist as an event Official, you just won't be able to judge/referee fighters in your fighters division. All registered event Officials will need to participate in the Friday night Officials seminar/meeting. After the meeting, Mr. Dan Stell, IKF Head of Officials and Mr. Mike Storm, Classic Tournament Head of MuayThai/International Rules Officials, will give out ring assignments or instruct what time for all Officials to meet on Saturday morning. Officials we will need include:

• Referees
• Judges
• Kick Judges
• Timekeepers
• Glove Runners
• Ring Runners
• Glove Check-In Officials
• Scorecard Runners

All registered event Officials who work a minimum of 10 bouts will receive an Official IKF (Polo Style) Officials Shirt.

MEDICAL STAFF
There is a new law in Florida that must be followed by the State Boxing Regulations for Amateur Kickboxing. One of the Rules and Regulations in this Law requires all Event Physicians/Doctors (MD) to be licensed in the state of Florida. Because of this we will not be able to use some of the Medical Doctors we had previously confirmed for the 2004 IKF North American Classic Tournament. Because of this we are asking any of our associates if they may have Physicians in the State of Florida that would be willing to work this event. We would need them to assist with fighter physicals on Friday from noon to 7 PM and be ringside doctors for the event on Saturday and Sunday from 8 AM until approximately 5 PM. If you are a Florida Licensed Medical Doctor or if you can assist us in confirming Medical Doctors who are, please contact us at (916) 663-2467 or by e-mail at main@ikfkickboxing.com Your assistance in this area would be greatly appreciated.

MORE NEWS OF 7-7-04

Arizona Leads With 5!

The question is, "What State will be best represented at this years 2004 IKF North American Classic Tournament?" So far, Arizona leads the way with 5 Registered Fighters. Here are all the states as of today that have registered fighters:

• USA
  1. Arizona -5-
  2. South Carolina -4-
  3. North Carolina -4-
  4. Virginia -4-
  5. Michigan -3-
  6. Idaho -2-
  7. Illinois -2-
  8. Texas -2-
  9. Colorado -1-
  10. Minnesota -1-
  11. Pennsylvania -1-
  12. Tennessee -1-
• CANADA
  1. Ontario -4-

MORE NEWS OF 7-7-04

What Do The Champions Get...?

Like every year at the IKF Tournament, the Champions will have their hands full of awards and gifts. 2004 will be no different. This year the awards include:

• CHAMPIONS
  • IKF North American Classic Championship Belt - Value $240.00
  • IKF/RINGSIDE North American Classic Championship Sweatshirt - Value $40.00
  • IKF/RINGSIDE North American Classic Championship Autograph Gloves - Value $35.00
• RUNNER-UPS
  • IKF North American Classic Championship Runner-Up Medal
  • IKF/TKO North American Classic Championship Runner-Up T-Shirt.
• ALL FIGHTERS
  • Full Color IKF North American Classic Participant Certificate.

MORE NEWS OF 7-7-04

IKF Point Kickboxing©
Saturday, August 21st!
Roseville, California, USA
Featuring 4' First Place Trophies!

Saturday August 21st will be another IKF Point Kickboxing tournament! The event will be held at Lord's Gym 702 Atlantic Street in Roseville, CA. Men, women and children will be competing for nice awards including a 4' first place prize. The trophy will be bigger than some of the competitors!

"We are looking at another exciting event! Everyone leaves with a prize!" Said Promoter Johnny Davis. If you ever wanted to try the sport of kickboxing, this semi-contact event is designed for you. Don't miss it! Tell a Friend! Hope to see you!

• EVENT INFO:
  • Fighters who pre-register before August 10th pay only $25 and save $10.
  • You can register at the door but the entry fee will be $35.
  • Registration starts at 9:AM.
  • Officials meeting will be at 10:00.
  • A tournament meeting for all participants will be held at 10:30.
  • Elimination bouts will start at 11:00.

For more information contact Johnny Davis at (916) 780-7483 or by e-mail at johnnyd@akpromotions.org or go to www.akpromotions.org
For Point Kickboxing Rules click HERE.

IKF Point Kickboxing...Your Next Step Out of the Gym!

TUESDAY, July 6th, 2004, AT 1:15 PM, PT

IKF NORTH AMERICAN CLASSIC
Championship Finals
REGISTRATION DEADLINES

We have had a lot of trainers and fighters calling in or e-mailing us saying they are planning to wait and see who is in their division before they register for the IKF North American Classic Tournament.
However, this causes more problems than solutions.
If everyone holds off to wait and see who is in their bracket, no one will have a fight because they will be constantly waiting for someone else to register. Not to mention the LATE FEES these fighters will be required to pay at the event.

As in previous years, all matchmaking will begin after the first registration deadline to assure EVERYONE will have a fight. In the 5 year history of the Tournament we have only had 4 fighters turned away because we could not match them with a fight.

Please note that there are 4 different DEADLINE dates and as in the past, ALL of these Deadlines will be followed sharply. The first Registration Deadline is this Saturday, July 10th, 2004. Registrations received (NOT POSTMARKED but PHYSICALLY RECEIVED) AFTER July 10th will be charged the following additional late fees.

1. Registration Received between 12:01 AM July 11th, 2004 and 12:00 Midnight July 15th will be charged a $30 Late Fee.
2. Registration Received between 12:01 AM July 16th, 2004 and 12:00 Midnight July 23rd will be charged a $50 Late Fee.
3. Registration Received between 12:01 AM July 23rd, 2004 and 12:00 Midnight July 30th will be charged a flat fee of $100 To Register For The Classic "IF" Their Registration is accepted at all.

NO REGISTRATIONS ACCEPTED AFTER AUGUST 1st, 2004

All Late fees must be paid upon registration, NO EXCEPTIONS.

MONDAY, July 5th, 2004, AT 12:20 PM, PT

TEAM VIERRA & TEAM ROUFUS
Team Up To Improve!

IKF Phoenix, Arizona, USA: Last year, former IKF Pro World Champion Rick "The Jet" Roufus made the move with his family to Arizona. Since there, he has brought the level of the fighters in his gym up considerably. IKF Trainer Clement Vierra (Right) has been one of the best trainers in the sport with several IKF State and National Champions under his wing along with his own current IKF Pro Light Middleweight World Champion fighter Anthony "Powerhouse" Bartinelli. Vierra is a trainer who is always open to new ideas to improve his fighters and himself as well so recently, Vierra's fighters and Roufus' fighters have been getting together to train for their upcoming IKF Sanctioned fights on July 27 at the Rodeo Nights Nightclub in Phoenix, Arizona.

When Roufus moved to Arizona he didn't sit quiet too long. He opened up Roufus Kickboxing Center at 1155 W. 23rd Street Suite 2A in Tempe, Arizona. (480-966-KICK) Roufus & Vierra's fighters has been training hard for the upcoming event sharing ideas and adding new sparring partners to their already powerful mix. Among those fighters Roufus has been helping is Vierra's World Champion, Bartinelli.

"Sparring with a legend like Mr. Roufus has help me a lot, in seeing how to put my hands and feet together better." said Bartinelli. He continued, "I have more Power then before and working out with someone at his level brought me to a new level. Thanks a whole lot Mr. Roufus!"

*Roufus is in hopes of bringing some of his Amateur Fighters to Orlando this August to "Walk The Walk" at the IKF North American Classic Tournament.

SATURDAY, July 3rd, 2004, AT 3:00 PM, PT

A Somber Note...
By Chuck Best (Right) IKF Texas

Hey all.....anyone who knows me is generally aware of my love of a good laugh and that I can "hold my own" in a sarcasm contest, etc...HOWEVER, because many of you have become friends of mine I want to share a bit of grief that has come my way recently; both as an outlet here for me to 'vent' a bit, and as a warning to take care of ourselves and that life is short.

I had a friend who recently passed away on June 21st under a very, very dark cloud. My friend's name was "Willie". I have known Wil 27 years, and we had been friends and business associates over that span of time. Wil was quite a bit older than me (he was 55 years young---I mean he was truly a "young" looking guy who could pass for someone in his mid 30's). Wille had a great build, dark tan, super personality and was one of my favorite people. I wish he'd confided more about what was going on inside of him than he let on.....let me explain:

Several years ago GHB was sold over the counter (was very popular with weightlifters, and sold at nutrition centers like GNC). The FDA soon found out how destructive GHB was an then banned it. However, as it turns out, many who were using GHB as a nutritional supplement had become addicted to it. A psychiatrist even told me it was "more addictive than heroin". Willie had gone thru rehab twice in an attempt to kick his "G" habit (he continued to get it 'blackmarket' after the FDA banned it). On the outside, Wille sat in my office here just days before he breathed his last, and was telling me how excited he was about his kids, grandkids, etc... Willie had always supported me in my athletic endeavors--came to almost all of my high school football games, followed my career(s) in college and pro, and showed for my kickboxing events---a true friend.....except that he was too afraid to show weakness, even to a close friend like me. Willie died from a drug overdose on June 21st.

I'd like to make 2 important points here:
#1: If you are struggling with something like a drug habit, it's virtually IMPOSSIBLE to "kick it" all alone without the moral support of family and friends. You WILL NOT kick such a habit alone or in secrecy!
#2: Value your friendships and realize how precious they are, and never take them for granted... none of us is guaranteed tomorrow! Willie and I had 'lunch plans' that kept getting pushed back due our busy schedules, etc... How I wish we'd been able to "break bread" one more time (who knows, maybe he'd have opened up during our meal, and I could have helped???). Sorry if this note is a big downer, but it's been therapeutic sharing it with you, my fellow kickboxing enthusiasts and friends. May you all be blessed.
Chuck Best

THURSDAY, July 1st, 2004, AT 8:25 PM, PT

IKF KILININGRAD!
PRO Woman's MuayThai World Titles RESCHEDULED

IKF Kaliningrad, Russia: Last Saturday night, June, 26 IKF Promoter Yuri Belousov hosted his IKF Kiliningrad event and all went well despite not having his planned two IKF Pro woman's MuayThai World Titles on the event. The rescheduling of the Titles was because of a breakdown in communication between former IKF Belarus Representative Evgeni Kotelnikov