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1998 |
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1998 IKF
AWARDS
The Best of the Best in the
IKF for 1998
THURSDAY, December 31st, 1998, AT 3:45 PM
Words of Wisdom From A Good Friend For The New Year:
"May your reflections on the year past give you strength for a new year ahead. It's a long and winding road we walk, filled with joy and pain, and yet the journey is one that if not taken would reflect in the lives of many!" Best wishes, Your Friend Jim
MORE NEWS OF 12-31-98. . .
New "Thunderlegs" Down Under...
IKF World Team Member Robert Wilesmith of Australia announced that his club will be holding the Grand Opening of their new facility on Saturday, the 9th of January, 1999 at 12 Noon. Their guests will include World & Australian Kickboxing Champions: GRANT BARKER, MARCUS MANGAN, GLEN BARAGRY, HOLLY FERNERLY & of course Australia's most famous Boxer & 3 Time World Champion, JEFF FENECH. All of the champions will be available to take pictures, autographs & will be doing demonstrations during the day. Also they will be there to answer any questions that you throw at them. The address to the new facility is
THUNDRELEGS KICKBOXING / BOXING CENTRE, 1st Floor, 143 145, Parramatta Road, Granville, 2142, NSW. Australia.
Mr. Wilesmith already has a major IKF Promotion planned for August, 1999 that will include 4 IKF World title bouts. To contact Mr. Wilesmith, call (61) 2-9632-1222, Fax: (61) 2-9681-7776 or e-mail by clicking HERE
THURSDAY, December 24th, 1998, AT 3:45 PM
Inspiration For The
Holidays...
THE
IKF RING WARRIOR...
In ANY IKF bout, when the warriors
challenge is done,
Both let down their guards, and holster all their guns.
Each
shall show respect, to their opponent across the way
Knowing that they gave
their all, in the ring of battle today.
One is crowned the winner, of the
battle they just fought.
But none shall be a loser, for both have walked the
walk.
The winner shall be praised, as many have before,
The other only
lost a battle, for their goal is to win the war.
Speak not of either
hastily, for both warriors stood the test
Rather than watch from afar, and
only wished they'd fight the best.
For no one is a champion, until their
heart has felt defeat.
For a champion truly knows, such emotions that run so
deep.
So real champions know the price, where victory and defeat may lie.
And
real champions aren't afraid to hug or are they afraid to cry.
For they have
met their challenge, and tears may flow from pride.
The emotions of a
warrior, running strong and deep inside.
This battle is over, and their will
be another day.
For no title is so valued, as the one that slips away.
In
a title bout the winner wears the belt, with the IKF
pride displayed.
While the other knows their quest of it, has only been
delayed.
Both shall be remembered as winners, for facing their ultimate
test.
The test of two courageous warriors, who battled to be the best.
So
train for that battle, courageous ring warriors of the night.
Let those who
judge you from afar, know you came to fight.
Whether you win or if you lose,
is not your journeys end.
It's how you take your wins and loses, the message
to others you send.
Remember IKF
warrior, a win in the ring is good, but in life there's so much more.
Be
respected outside that ring of battle, and now you've won life's war.
To all of those ring warriors who entered the ring whether you won or lost, YOU "Walked the Walk!"This ones for YOU, the Trainers who got you there, the Officials who watched over you and the Promoters and Sponsors that MADE IT ALL HAPPEN! Happy Holidays to you ALL. Sincerely, Steve Fossum, IKF World President, and PROUD MEMBER of the IKF WORLD TEAM! GO TEAM!
WEDNESDAY, December 23rd, 1998, AT 12:05 AM
IKF Champ
Tsutsui Vacates Titles
to Move to
MUAY THAI ONLY!
IKF United States International Rules Champion George Tsutsui of Vallejo, CA, USA has made an it official, "I only want to fight Muay Thai bouts for the remainder of my career." said Tsutsui in a phone interview a few days ago. Since Tsutsui only wants to fight Muay Thai Rule bouts for the remainder of his fighting career, he has also decided himself that he will vacate the 2 IKF United States International Rules (Leg Kicks) Titles he currently holds.
Tsutsui tried several times to attain an IKF title as an amateur but bad luck seemed to get in the way. He lost his first attempt back on March 27th, 1993 when he lost a close decision in San Francisco to Antonio Puente. On February 18th, 1995 he was fouled by his opponent Suji Yamaguchi when Yamaguchi accidently kicked him in the groin. That bout ended in a No Contest since it happened at only 6 seconds into the 2nd round.
Finally, as a Pro in 1996, Tsutsui wore the IKF Title belt for the first time after he beat John Adams winning the vacant IKF United States Light Welterweight Title on February 17th, 1996 at Travis Air Force Base by unanimous decision, 70-61, 69-63 and 70-61 on the judges cards. He won his second IKF Pro title, the IKF U. S. Welterweight Title on November 16th in Redding, CA against Miguel Reyes by a DEVASTATING Knockout at 1:03 of the 5th round of what had been a great fight up until that point. Tsutsui was never challenged to defend either of his pro IKF title he won.
He will now voluntarily vacate the 2 titles making them available for someone else as he makes his commitment to Muay Thai. Tsutsui is no stranger to Muay Thai having defeated Melchor Manor and Danny Steele by decisions and putting a spanking most recently on David Blocker at San Pablo Casino, CA, USA, Blocker had the nerve to cry to the athletic commission that the officials lost the bout for him. The IKF didn't sanction the event but we were there to watch it... David...You lost fare and square.
Now Tsutsui sets his eyes on an IKF Muay Thai World Title that he may get a shot at on several IKF events this spring. The only question is, What weight will he attempt the title at? The IKF Lightweight World title is vacant at 130.1- 135 lbs. Or he could re-match Danny Steele since Steele holds the IKF Junior Welterweight Muay Thai World title (135.1-140 lbs.). This would make Steele happy as well after losing a decision to Tsutsui in San Jose about a year or so ago. Next in line would be to challenge Khunpol who holds the IKF Welterweight Muay Thai World Title (140.1-147 lbs.). Or move up to challenge Kongnapa for the IKF Junior Middleweight Muay Thai World Title (147.1-154 lbs.)
All we know is that Tsutsui should fit into this mix of world class fighters fine whereever he gets his shot. Win or lose, he has proved himself in the ring before time and time again. It's just another day at the office for George, and like any true champion, the challenges only get harder from here. He's never turned away from any fight so we can assure you, whoever he fights, we can promise a true Muay Thai War...Is this sport GREAT or What!
MORE NEWS OF 12-22-98. . .
IKF Endorses New Mouthguard!
Yesterday, the IKF publicized it's concern for leg kick fighters safety, now we move ahead to the safety of all fighters. The IKF is Officially Endorsing a New mouth piece produced here in the USA. We hope to see fighters worldwide using the new mouth piece since it is not just endorsed by the IKF but many fighting champions worldwide. It is called the Jaw-Joint Protector and here is the latest news on the new produce available through companies such as RINGSIDE INC. and other dealers.
WIPSS PRESS: As athletes continue to get bigger, stronger, and faster, internal head injuries and concussions are more frequently sidelining and even ending the careers of young athletes. A new mouthguard is being marketed to sports organizations and athletes around the world and it is called the Jaw-Joint Protector. The Protector not only protects the upper and lower teeth, but it repositions both jaw bones in a down and forward position and locks them comfortably in place. Upon impacts to the head this new defensive facial posture prevents the jaw bone from crashing into the base of the brain and other vital nerve groups inside the skull.
WIPSS Products, the developer and patent holder of the Jaw-Joint Protector has focused its ten year study on a part of the anatomy called the TMJ, which is also known as the jaw-joint assembly. Studies have shown that this is the most unprotected area of the body in sports and because of that it is responsible for the majority of internal head injuries. Most athletes suffer from some degree of jaw-joint disorder and because the injury is cumulative, performance and even the quality of life after their careers is affected."We have been traveling the world educating sports organizations and athletes on how internal head injuries are increasing in contact sports and what we can do to reduce them", says Joe Manzo, National and International Accounts Director of WIPSS. Just back from the international games in Malaysia and Argentina at the request of the International Amateur Boxing Association, WIPSS presented its studies on internal head injury patterns in sports and also demonstrated how the Jaw-Joint Protector can eliminate many of these needless injuries. There was great acceptance from the medical and safety committee and efforts are being made to advise its membership on the new technology.
The most recent stop was at the Educational Funding Companies trade show and seminar in San Francisco. Dojo owners from around the world viewed the Protector and where pleased to see that there was finally a mouthguard that provided protection against internal head injuries as well as the teeth. While in the Bay area, a Mecca for the combat arts, three champion superstars and their fighting camps where visited; Alex Gong and the Fairtex team, Cung Le and the Sansho team and Frank Shamrock, UFC World Champion. All three champions fitted the Protector and they also agreed that protection against internal head injuries was a priority in there teachings. They where anxious in testing it so they could feel the protection and other advantages that come along with the unique WIPSS design.
Muay Thai Kickboxer Alex Gong, President of Fairtex Muay Thai Training Camp and Fairtex Products says, "My fighters and I really like the Jaw-Joint Protector. You can really take a hit with it and not be affected as much, it seems like your wearing a brain pad and now we can breath through the mouth while clenching and fighting, it is a competitive advantage. We will incorporate the Protector in our catalog of top notch Muay Thai products, promoting safety and helping market this new technology throughout the world."
World San Shou Champion Cung Le and Owner / Chief Instructor of Cung Le Martial Arts Training Center says, "My team members adapted very quickly to the Protector, the breathing is great and when I take a hit with the Protector in, I can feel the impact being absorbed into the unit instead of sending the shock to my brain. It's also very comfortable. The Jaw-Joint Protector is a good safety product for our sport and all of my students. The breathing is enhanced so much while wearing the Protector that I am also going to recommend it for all of my Cardio Zone Kickboxing TM students to enhance their endurance and maximize their workouts."
UFC World Champion Frank Shamrock says, "I fitted myself in minutes and it's very comfortable. The breathing is great and when I wore it while doing my weight training, I felt stronger and saw my reps increase instantly. I do endorse the Jaw-Joint Protector and look forward to wearing it in my upcoming fights."
WIPSS is proud to announce that Fairtex Products in San Francisco, TC Media Inc. in Fremont CA. and RINGSIDE INC. will be distributing the Jaw-Joint Protector to competitors and practitioners of the Martial Arts around the world. The Protector is also endorsed by the IKF, International Kickboxing Federation, WBA, World Boxing Association, IFBA, International Female Boxing Association, National Dental Association, US Olympic Boxing Team, The Golden Gloves of America, IABA, International Amateur Boxing Association, CABA, Canadian Amateur Boxing Association, USA NKF National Karate Team, World Champion Tokey Hill, UFC Champ Maurice Smith, IBC Heavyweight Champ Mike Grant and many other sports organizations and professional athletes. If you or your organization is interested in reducing internal head injuries including concussions and knockouts while gaining the competitive advantage. Call WIPSS at 1-888-424-WIPSS - Contact: Joe Manzo- National Director or for their web site, click Jaw Joint Protector for the dealer or representative nearest you.
MONDAY, December 21st, 1998, AT 10:45 PM
IKF... Another "FIRST" For The Sport, Again.
OK... We may be rocking the boat a little here, but keep in mind that our intentions here are for the longevity and safety of kickboxers worldwide. This announcement is yet another First by the IKF towards a better future for the World of Kickboxing. After discussing the issue in question with IKF World Team Leaders and Leg Kick and Muay Thai experts Mike Miles of Calgary, Alberta, Canada and Duke Roufus of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA, the IKF is announcing a change of the round lengths on ALL IKF Sanctioned International Rules (Leg Kick) World Title Bouts. These bouts will now be 10 rounds instead of 12. WHY? Well no, it's not a major change, but it "WILL" make a difference. In fact, there was even discussion on cutting the leg kick titles to 5, 3 minute rounds, but Mr. Miles brought up a very important point about how such a drastic change would strongly effect a fighters strategy in a title bout. The main concern as we previously mentioned here is the fighters safety and longevity. For example, if one takes a moment to think about it, the PUNISHMENT from ANY bout with leg kicks "IS" the Leg Kicks. Leg kick fighters take "A LOT" more overall punishment on their entire body than a full contact fighter. Not saying one style of fighter is better or worse, tougher etc., just different. Fighters are able to fight more in Thailand for example because their bouts do not exceed 5 rounds in their Muay Thai Rules bouts. Sure, they include Knees and Elbows and are 3 minutes long, but the main punishment is from the leg kicks. Don't get us wrong, an Elbow or Knee to the face causes more damage than a foot or punch, but they also happen a lot less than the leg kicks. However, some time ago, some one thought it was a good idea to have 12 round leg kick bouts instead of the once 9 rounds. Well, the IKF wants to go back in time a bit. Here are the new Title Bout requirements for the IKF International Rules (Leg Kick) bouts. The amateur title bout round lengths will not change, only the Pro Title bouts.
Pro World Title Bouts: 10, 2 minute rounds, 1 Minute Rests.
Pro
Intercontinental and Continental Title Bouts: 8, 2 minute rounds with 1 minute
rests.
Pro National Title Bouts: 7, 2 minute rounds with 1 minute rests.
Pro
Regional and State Title Bouts: 6, 2 minute rounds with 1 minute rests.
We welcome ANY comments in regards to this change and in fact we encourage them. Here's to the Future of Kickboxing...Cheers!
THURSDAY, December 18th, 1998, AT 12:40 AM
Results of Mattox's IKF Illinois, USA...
IKF Promoter Mike Mattox made his promoting debut on Friday, December 11th, 1998 in Dixon, Illinois, USA. IKF Representative Dan Stell of Fairfield, CA, USA attended the event as Referee and IKF Representative along with assistant representative Craig Monyelle of Beloit Wisconsin, USA. Here are the bout results.
Great Job Mr. Mattox and welcome to the IKF World TEAM as an official IKF Kickboxing Promoter! Everyone is already looking forward to your next event!
MONDAY, December 14th, 1998, AT 2:00 PM
K-1 RESULTS...
Official Results and Times from The KICKBOXING RING REPORT SITE...
Round 1
Round 2 - Semi Finals
Final Round
Aerts KO over Hug in round 1 at 1min. 10 sec.
K-1 Grand Prix Finals History
Click HERE for all the news and Results...The KICKBOXING RING REPORT!!
MORE NEWS OF 12-14-98. . .
IKF &
WKA
MALICE AT
THE
PALACE 2
"HOLIDAY BASH"
CALGARY, ALBERTA, CANADA:IKF Canadian promoter Mike Miles presented his last fight card of the 1998 year - Malice at the Palace 2 - "Holiday Bash" on Sunday December 13th, 1998. The event was chocked full of excellent bouts and featured five title bouts in one evening as well as a women's submission bout. The event was attended by 800 people. "I was surprised our attendance did this well, having the event in a night club that is frequented by people in their early twenties. The event was so close to Christmas and secondly, a lot of our regular audience is in the midst of finals at the University, etc. I was happy with the crowd we had! " said promoter Mike Miles.
The Main Event was Canada's Trevor "T.N.T." Smandych, defending one of his North American Welterweight Muay Thai Title against American challenger David Morrow. This was a very good bout that ended on a somewhat sour note. During the bout Morrow possessed a bob and weave style, not a smart style to have when fighting under Muay Thai rules. This was to prove to be Morrow's undoing. Smandych, controlled the bout from the beginning to the end of the third round in this scheduled five round fight. Smandych used a more traditional upright Muay Thai stance and picked off Morrow's attacks, and answered with solid kicks, knees, and punches. Being bruised from his last bout in November (a KO win over a Thai), Smandych kept trying to land his high round kicks to finish the bout. In round two, a solid kick attack followed by a knee hurt Morrow. This was followed by a blistering punch attack that forced the referee to intervene and deliver a standing eight count to Morrow. In round three, Morrow weaved low right into a high round kick attempt by Smandych and took a high shin on the temple area which created a large gash. At the end of the third round Morrow's corner protested claiming that the blow was an intentional knee to the head (no knees to the head were allowed in this bout). During the attack in question, Smandych did not have a hold on Morrow's head and did not pull Morrow into the knee. The officials called the blow and accidental knee. The fight doctor examined the cut and called the bout. This particular bout was for a WKA title, not an IKF title and following WKA rules, if an accidental foul stops a bout after the second round, the fight will then go to the score cards. (This is somewhat the same in the IKF) Smandych was declared the winner having won the first round, then scoring a 10-8 round in the second, and then winning the third round again. Morrow lodged a protest but the officials followed the rulebook and Smandych was awarded the bout and retained his title. This was a very exciting bout.
The Semi-Main Event of the evening featured up and coming Canadian Sokhim "Machine" Or against American Joe Sarkissian for the IKF North American Welterweight Muay Thai Title. Sarkissian came out real fast in round one and Or walked through the attacks and answered back with an impressive array of punches followed by kicks. A third of the way into the round, Or walked through Sarkissian's attacks and answered with some punishing blows giving Sarkissian his first knockdown. Sarkissian quickly realized he had a war on his hands and he rushed in at the Or but Or counterpunched and forced Sarkissian back to the ropes. Or then delivered a beautiful left frontal knee to Sarkissian who went down and decided he had had enough of the bout and could not continue. Or won the title for his effort and also won the Best In Town Fighter Award.
Calgary, Alberta Canada's Jason Fenton squared off in the ring with California, USA's Scott Thorsen. This proved to be a very exciting bout with the momentum changing back and forth throughout the five rounds of Kickboxing rules (allowing leg kicks). Fenton proved to be the more effective kicker of the two while Thorsen relied heavily on his hands to try and win the bout. There were several knockdowns during this bout but all from taking out the opponent's legs. Neither athlete went down from blows to the head. Fenton's kicking prowess would be greeted by cheers from the audience every time he kicked but the majority of his kicks were bouncing off of forearms. Thorsen would force Fenton to the ropes and work the hands, but the majority of the punches would glance off of forearms as well. There would be surprises during the bout with Fenton suddenly tattooing Thorsen off of the ropes with his hands and Thorsen suddenly delivering jumping back kicks at Fenton from close range. The bout was close in the scoring department with Thorsen winning by a split decision for forcing the fight. Thorsen also won the trophy for "Best Out of Town Fighter".
IKF Intercontinental Welterweight Kickboxing Champion Trevor Desjarlais from Red Deer, Alberta, Canada, stepped up a division and put his hat in the ring for the vacant IKF North American Superwelterweight Kickboxing Title. His opponent was California, USA's Jacob Salas. Salas started the fight using his height and reach advantage to that, his advantage. Long punches and kicks, followed by lateral movement and slipping had Desjarlais catching a lot of air with his blows. At the end of the first round surprisingly Salas was looking tired. In the second Salas took a few heavy body shots that obviously hurt him and the dance seemed to disappear from his legs. To compensate he started relying more on holding. In the third of the scheduled five rounds, Desjarlais turned on the pressure and started landing some brutal round kicks to the body which hurt Salas. They were followed with some exceptional body punches that finally forced Salas to quit and not continue. Desjarlais won the vacant IKF title by TKO.
The final title bout of the evening was for the vacant WKA Super Middleweight Muay Thai Title. The belt was contested for by Calgary's Gord Anderson and Steinbach's Sioudom Pathammavong. Anderson was under the weight limit but this did not matter. Eastern Canadian Super Middleweight Kickboxing Champion Pathammavong, could not deal with Anderson's variety of attacks and in the middle of the second round took a knee to the belly that put him to the canvas. Anderson walked away with the belt with a second round TKO.
The submission bout of the event featured two women in a grudge match with a big difference in weight. Calgary's Sheila Bradish weighed in at 135 lbs. and she squared off with Edmonton's Val Prente who tipped the scales at 190 lbs. Initially Prente started the bout in better position relying on her weight advantage. About a minute into the round Bradish turned the tide and worked from the guard position to the top position. Suddenly and quickly Bradish took hold of Prente's hand and made her tap out due to a very painful arm bar.
The undercard was rounded out with the following:
For more info on this event, contact Mr. Mike Miles at (403) 244-8424 or e-mail by clicking HERE.
FRIDAY, December 11th, 1998, AT 4:15 AM
Regan Wins
By
KO...
What's New...!!!
Jongsanan
Wins IKF North American, While
Spaid Defends IKF
U.S.
Ramos
Wins IKF California Title While
Freeman's Title is Questioned...
A day before the event at the press conference for the Regan vs Hagins bout, respectful and polite Eric Regan of Citrus Heights California, USA (16-0 with 10 KO's) smiled at the camera and just said he looks forward to getting in the ring again and be able to kick someone. "I just like to Kick" said Regan who also does a little boxing to keep busy as well. He finished his interview with only kind and respectful words for his opponent, Cecil Hagins of Albq. New Mexico, USA (18-6 with 14 KO's) . when it was Hagins turn to talk, the tide turned. Hagins said he was going to get inside and "POUND" Regan's ribs. When asked by the press if Regan's 6'4" frame of a 163 lb fighter worried him any, Hagins answered, "It's just more body to hit, and I came here to bang! He's never been hit by someone like me before!" With some other smack talkin one liners that were great for the pre fight build-up, Hagins convinced the press of his confidence to simply walk through Regan and surprise the hometown crowd. However those of us who know "Mr. Regan" have heard these words MANY TIMES before and once again as they say in the fight game, "Talk only goes so far!"
On Wednesday night, December 9th at the Radisson Hotel in Sacramento, CA, USA, IKF North American Champion Eric "The Hitman" Regan jabbed, smacked, cracked, battered, tattered, razzled and dazzled ( Gee, what other words can we use....There aren't enough...) punched, kicked and simply did a home town professional thrashing of Hagins. Regan walked through the standing room only crowd, coming straight up to Hagins in the ring and SLAMMIN his gloves to Hagins. Once in those ropes, as we have said before, Regan becomes A DIFFERENT PERSON! He is "IN THE ZONE!" He than aknowledged the hometown "SELLOUT" crowd of over a 1,000 as he danced around the ring. Heck, from the looks of it, one would have thought Dennis Alexio was in back in Sacramento again like last May. But no Alexio was needed on this night. Tonight it was "MASTER REGAN'S HOUSE!
From the moment of the opening bell, Regan put his foot SQUARE on Hagins chest, than in his face and back in his chest and again and again... Regan had thrown every kick in the book before Hagins was ready to answer back. When the bell ended round 1, Regan had thrown a total of 29 kicks in the 2 minute round to Hagins 11. He had jabbed Hagins so many times that even if Hagins wanted to get inside, Regan made him pay big. Once inside, Hagins POUNDED and Regan smiled...Heck, maybe Regan doesn't have any ribs to break...
As round 2 started, Regan introduced Hagins to his "OTHER" weapon... Regan's RIGHT HAND! with a lead jab followed by the right hand, Regan wouldn't just punch when he controlled Hagins, he followed every 2 punches with another kick and than 2-3 more punches. Than enter another weapon...The HOOK and DOWN WENT HAGINS! As he stood for his count, blood seemed to cover his face as he looked to his corner and shrugged his shoulders as if to saw "What can I do??" A look MANY Regan opponents give once they are in "REGAN'S OFFICE!" When round 2 was over, the damage was obvious. Regan had thrown 19 kicks to Hagins "2".
When round 3 came, Hagins had no idea what to try next. Confused and obviously hurt, Hagins wasn't where he wanted to be. At the 1:45 mark, referee Dan Stell stepped in and called the bout off. He could of called it earlier but he wanted to give Hagins every chance he could so no one would question it. There was NO QUESTION about this stop. Before the stop, Regan had twice as many kicks as Hagins. No title was on the line in this fight since it was only scheduled for 6 rounds but it was clear to the IKF that Regan is clearly a WORLD TITLE Contender. We believe he doesn't need to wait any longer for his World Title shot. It will again depend on his trainer, Nasser Niavaroni. Niavaroni ( IKF Trainer of the year in 1996 ) has taken his time with Regan and made all the right moves. Together they are the "One-Two Punch" Kickboxing Needs. And hey...Whoever said full contact, above the waist rules was dead has NOT seen a fighter like Eric Regan perform. There's never a moment of silence in a Regan bout from the opening bell! If anyone plans to meet him in the ring, expect to have a full schedule from the opening bell on. Gee, where do you suppose he got that from.....Maybe a friend named Alexio....GREAT FIGHT ERIC!
OK, OK, yes there were other bouts as well. So lets get to them. For you Muay Thai fans, Niavaroni's card had the best for you as well. Strong handed, and strong headed, Fernando Calleros of Albq. New Mexico, USA (28-7 with 16 KO's) faced off against Jongsanan Fairtex of San Francisco's FAIRTEX camp (Over 200 bouts) for the IKF North American Welterweight Pro Muay Thai Title. Calleros came out active and strong in rounds 1 & 2 as Jongsanan started slow like many skilled Muay Thai fighters as Calleros won both rounds 1 & 2, 10-9 and 10-9 on all 3 judges cards. as round 3 unfolded though, Calleros begin to slow down. He threw less punches and kicks and as the last minute of the round unfolded (3 minute Muay Thai rounds) Jongsanan threw several strong ending flurries which won the judges over. Jongsanan won round 3, 10-9 on all the judges cards. In round 4, Jongsanan begin to take control. A strong kick to Calleros chest forced a delayed reaction out of him and he took a knee on his own forcing a standing 8 count by referee Jon D. Schorle II. (Schorle was the FIRST Ever, Officially Certified IKF Judge back in 1992) . As round 4 ended, Jongsanan was up by 1 point on 2 of the cards while one judge had them even only scoring round 4, 10-9 Jongsanan instead of 10-8. Although un-eventful as far as dominating combinations etc., round 5 proved to be the winner as Jongsanan just stayed busy and took the victory by unanimous decision, 48-46, 48-46 and 48-47. Jongsanan won the vacant IKF North American Welterweight Pro Muay Thai Title.
Back in May, IKF U.S. Amateur Light Welterweight Champion Brett "Lionking" Spaid of Roseville, CA, USA (10-1 with 6 KO's) faced off against a strong and fast Tawn Saephan of Roseville, CA, USA (4-3 with no KO's). It was a cross town grudge match that some thought wouldn't be much of a fight. But Saephan came to bang and Spaid found himself on the mat from a right hand out of nowhere late in the bout that cut his cheek bad. Spaid needing to reach down inside and pull out that Lionking Heart he has and add some Lionking Power before he finally stopped Saephan at 1:12 of the 5th and final round to retain his title. When the smoke cleared, yes Spaid won, but everyone remembered that this was a WAR! So what's the best thing for a promotion? Bring the WAR back to town!
It was a new Saephan this time as he came out with flashy kicks stronger and faster punches. This cross town rivalry was again, a WAR as promised! After 2, Saephan led on all 3 judges cards 20-18 but round 3 proved to be the turning point. Spaid once again found the Lion inside and it begin to roar. Not loud and not by domination, but enough to control his space. Spaid was finally putting his combinations together and turned the tide. At the end of 4 it was all tied up at 38 each. As round 5 unfolded, Spaid looked like a fighter wanting to go 7 more! His combinations were strong and fast as Saephan begin to slow down a bit. But Saephan kept in the game and both continued to go toe to toe. In the end, the judges gave it to Spaid. These 2 could fight ten more times and we could see Saephan winning half. These two were that evenly matched. Spaid retains his IKF Amateur Light Welterweight Title once again. This bout will be nominated with several others as IKF Amateur bout of the year.
We surly hope Saephan doesn't get discouraged after his 3rd loss in a row. Why? Well, he hasn't been fighting beginners fight fans. Spaid back in May, and a close majority decision loss to IKF Super Lightweight Amateur Champion Billy Beach (7-0 with 2 KO's) in Oregon on November 7th, of this year, 46-46, 48-46 and 48-47 and now again to Spaid. Saephan is a FAR better fighter than his record shows. (4-2) We hope to see him back soon, maybe against an opponent closer to his record... but were sure to eventually see another war... Maybe another shot at"THE LIONKING"! WOW did these two BANG!
In other amateur action, Armando Ramos of San Francisco, CA, USA -Fairtex- defeated IKF California Featherweight Amateur Champion, Vantha Chhim of Modesto, CA, USA (6-2) to win the IKF California Super Lightweight Amateur Title by unanimous decision. Ramos is still awaiting an official IKF Review Decision on his last bout with Shawn Yacoubian when the decision was questionable. The fight was in Oregon on November 7th for the IKF Super Lightweight Amateur West Coast Title. At the event Yacoubian was declaired the winner by unanimous decision. Judge Shawn Silva scored it 48-45. Judge Jason Elliot scored it 49-44 and judge/referee Dan Stell scored it 48-46. In question are the scoring of knockdowns in round 1 and the technique in which was scored by the judges. The "OFFICIAL" decision of this bout should be known before Christmas.
Controversy arose between fighters Darren Freeman of Susanville, CA, USA and Fairtex' Kazushi Nishida of San Francisco, CA, USA. It appeared that Freeman was told by matchmaker Niavaroni that he was fighting a 3 round leg kick bout. However, Nishida said they were told a 5 round Muay thai bout for a title. Hmmm. The IKF was going to scratch the bout rather than have either fighter fight a fight they weren't prepared for. In good sportsmanship, Fairtex' Alex Gong agreed to just go ahead with the bout as a leg kick bout but still 5 rounds. Freeman's corner agreed and the bout went the distance with Freeman winning a Split decision, 48-45, 47-46 and 46-47. However, the IKF is not quick to announce Freeman as the winner and title holder just yet. Nishida came prepared to fight with knees and to any Muay Thai fighter, if you take away the knees, you take away an important weapon. In question is some locker room discussion AFTER the bout where it was rumored that Freeman had previously said yes to a knee fight but changed his mind. In Freemens defense though, the IKF has yet to speak with Nishida's camp, Freeman or matchmaker and promoter Nasser Niavaroni. If this is true though, the bout will be ruled a "No Contest" and a re-match will be set. We'll let you know the results soon.
Rounding out the night were 8 FANTASTIC undercard bouts. Here they are in order of the event.
First time fighter Katie Ear from Fairtex, San Francisco, CA, USA was too light (108 lbs.) to meet up with Angela Rivera (2-1, 115 lbs.) of Phelan, CA, USA so they both did an exhibition. But WOW! What an exhibition! At the end, both girls had ROCKED with GREAT Muay Thai style fighting! Women Muay Thai? YES! Woman's Muay Thai. The IKF respected their match so much that both were officially ranked into the IKF Woman's Amateur Muay Thai Rankings.
Mike Marinoble (2-0, 1 KO) of Roseville, CA, USA has had the same problem as his 3 time IKF National Amateur Champion Dave Marinoble. It seems over the last year, every time a fight has been scheduled, his opponents have backed out. Some on the day of the event. So Mike said "YES" to promoter/matchmaker Nasser Niavaroni knowing NOTHING about undefeated Dewey Cooper (4-0, 3 KO's) of Las Vegas Nevada, USA. The IKF had only seen him fight once in Bakersfield but the fight didn't go long enough for anyone to see just how good Cooper was as he stopped a less experienced Rich Bowen (0-2) in the second round back on March 14th of this year. With dreadlocks like that of Shannon Briggs and a chiselled look like him as well, Cooper entered the ring at 191 lbs. Marinoble a bit shorter and a bit smaller at 189 knew he had a tough time at the office on this night. Some thought the more experienced Cooper would dispose of Marinoble quick but Marinoble had another weapon needed in the ring of battle..."HEART!" Marinoble stayed strong taking everything Cooper had. After a shaky round 1 where Marinoble was knocked down, Cooper couldn't put him down again. Marinoble fired back with all he had but Coopers strength and experience made the difference. Cooper combined a strong upper body attack followed by some strong and powerful kicks as he won a unanimous decision 30-26 on all 3 judges cards. Hopefully Mike will get a closer match the next time out, and as far as Cooper? Well Dewey, that IKF Amateur Cruiserweight Title is still vacant..... Great fight guys.
As baseball great and the nights celebrity guest MC/Ring Announcer Steve Sax (Las Angeles Dodgers, etc) looked at the announcer card, he hesitated with the name...Yes Steve... "Paul Bunyan..." at 6'4" tall and 196 lbs, Paul Bunyan of Bakersfield, CA, USA brought his AX to the fights to face off against Carter Williams of Modesto, CA, USA who stood an even 6' but weighed in at 215 lbs. On this night though, Bunyan would need his ax in the final round to make things even as Williams dominated round 1 and the judges were mixed on round 2. It took a Paul Bunyan knockdown of a tired and winded Williams in round 3 to keep it even as these two finished with a "Majority Draw" decision, 29-28, 28-28 and 28-28.
Under trainer Nasser Niavaroni, Jessica Ellis Nobles of Roseville, CA, USA is undefeated at 3-0 as a full contact fighter. But if her fight with Marlow McCray (2-2) of Melchor Manor's House of Thunder in San Diego CA, USA would have went 1 more round, she might have felt her first loss. Nobles DOMINATED rounds 1 and 2 with strong punches and kicks but very few leg kicks while for some reason, McCray also stayed away from leg kicking. But in round 3, McCray started blasting Nobles legs over and over. Nobles just wouldn't pick up her leg to block McCray's kicks. McCray finished round 3 with about 10-15 straight leg kicks to Nobles legs but Nobles stood firm. It's a good thing there wasn't a round 4 because obviously McCray found a weak spot in the otherwise SPOTLESS defense of Nobles we have seen in the past. Were not sure what made her want to do a leg kick fight but if she plans to do any again, she better start picking up that leg. Nobles is a GREAT Full Contact Rules fighter but those leg kicks are no fun and games. Nobles took the bout by unanimous decision 29-28 on all 3 judges cards with Nobles winning rounds 1 & 2 and McCray round 3.
They seem to always call Mr. Adam Rogers of Seaside, CA, USA the old man... Hmmm... Well, we saw nothing old about the 35 year old work horse on this night. Although Rogers (4-2 with 2 KO's) was told by the matchmaker he was fighting a full contact above the waist rules bout, his opponent, Eddie Salas of Las Vegas, Nevada, USA was told it was a leg kick bout. Rogers had no problem with that upon being informed of it in the ring. Off came the foot pads and he was ready for leg kicks. Rogers kept the pressure on Salas (4-2 with 4 KO's and 20 years old) despite Salas grabbing and holding his leg over and over again. Rogers went on to win by unanimous decision 30-27 on all 3 judges cards. Old at 35...? Come on...Adam is just starting to live!
Closing out the nights bouts we bring you the results of diet, nutrition, exercise, physical fitness training, weightlifting and on and on, enter the new IRON MAN at 156 lbs,
Domonic "The DOMINATOR" Robles!!!
When Robles first fought for the IKF and actually his first kickboxing bout ever, he was 172 lbs and won a split decision against a Jerico Lane in Redding CA, USA. In April of the same year, again in Redding, Robles faced Adam Ament and again, won a split decision weighing in at 175 lbs. A month later in Sacramento, CA, USA, Robles fought Lane again in a rematch this time winning by majority decision. He weighed in at 176 lbs. In November of 1996 it was back to Redding again and Robles faced Pete Garcia. Robles weighed in at 172 lbs and won again, by split decision. In July of 1997, Robles now 4-0 faced off against Dave Holeman. Robles, at a smaller 167 lbs won again by guess what... A SPLIT Decision. By now your thinking this story is about "MR. SPLIT DECISION, Dominick Robles..." Although it would make a good story, that's not where were going with this...
After a couple of fights away from the IKF and his first 2 loses, Robles was back on an IKF event with a 5-2 record. But here is where the story is going. Robles entered the ring Wednesday night at as lean and mean, ripped 156 lbs! Let him speak for the fitness benefits of kickboxing. Robles won't tell us how he did it, but if he wrote a book on it, it would probably be a best seller after Wednesday's performance in the ring. Why? Well, Robles was done with fighting beginners, Robles and trainer Nasser Niavaroni went for the top of the list on this night facing off against 2 time IKF Champion "MAGIC" Juan Escobar of Watsonville, CA, USA. Escobar entered the ring with a 8-1 record and 5 KO's. Escobar weighed in at 152 lbs but he could have been 253 lbs on this night andIronman Robles wouldn't have minded. From the opening bell, Robles shredded through Escobar's defense and stunned EVERYONE! Escobar was the one who was use to ripping through everyone not Mr. Split Decision Robles... Escobar had been ripping through everyone on his way to winning 2 IKF titles. The IKF West Coast Super Welterweight International Rules (Leg Kick) Title and the IKF International Rules United States Welterweight Title. Robles smashed Escobar's nose so much in round 1, the ringside physician had considered stopping it from all the blood, but a closer look assured it was a very bad bloody nose. Although Robles had trouble in the kicking department, he did manage to get his kicks in, in all three rounds. It wasn't until the final round that Robles let it all hang out. Escobar won the kick war each round, 8-6, 13-7 and 12-11 but Robles hand combinations were enough to do the damage and get the judges attention. Robles was VERY STRONG at this weight and if Escobar hadn't of been the great fighter he is, Robles looked like he could have put anyone away in the first round. However Escobar held on and never went down as he lasted the distance. In the end, Escobar suffered only his second loss. It was a non title bout so no titles were exchanged, but Robles has made it clear that he is now ready for his shot at an IKF title! He can go on to say he beat the 2 time Champion by guess what...... a UNANIMOUS DECISION, 30-27 on all 3 judges cards. Great job DOMINATOR! No, no, not in the fight, but in not having another split decision...just kidding. So Dominator! What's your secret...? We all need to lose a few pounds. It's time to let us all in on the DOMINATOR DIET! The best way to becoming a lean and mean DOMINATOR MACHINE!
Great job done by the Niavaroni/Sax Promotional Team once again and the Radisson for the great set-up. We all hope to be back in March so get ready everyone... Time to Pack the house again in Sacramento!
Event Judges: Susan Thomas Gitlan and Richard Flynn
Event
Referees: Alternating at Judges: Jon D. Schorle II and
Dan Stell
Physicians: Dr. Vanburean Lemons
and Dr. Randy Martin.
Timekeeper: Stan Gordon.
MORE NEWS OF 12-11-98. . .
REVISED 12-10-98
Rick Roufus vs Stan Longinidis!
As if the Don "The Dragon" Wilson vs Dick "The Destroyer" Kimber title fight wasn't enough to force you to tune in April 10th, 1999, now we can confirm that Rick "The Jet" Roufus will meet Stan "The Man" Longinidis. Roufus will defend his IKF Pro IR Heavyweight Title. Apparently, talks with Dennis Alexio stalled even though it was rumored that Alexio was offered $150,000.00 for the match which would have been Alexio's biggest payday ever. Apparently Alexio said no due to terms of the event, NOT the money and NOT the opponent. It seems that Alexio didn't want to be a co-main event and well, who can blame him. We would think the reasons would be obvious.
The event is scheduled for Tsongas Arena in Lowell Massachusetts, USA and will be promoted by Revolution Productions. for more info, you can contact Rick Broider at Revolution Productions at 781-592-9063. Along with the 4 above, several other fighters are scheduled to meet on various events to determine who will fight for the Vacant IKF World Super Heavyweight Full Contact Rules Title. They include Kevin Rosier, Mike Labree, Anthony Elmore, Grant Barker, Dennis Lane, Derek Panza, Chris Ballard, Stewert Green, Jim Mullen and possibly others to be determined.
WEDNESDAY, December 9th, 1998, AT 12:30 AM
Mike Miles
Ready For
MALICE At The PALACE # 2
IKF promoter Mike Miles will put a close to his "Dynamic" 1998 Kickboxing Promotion Schedule as he promotes his 6th IKF event of 1998 in Calgary, Alberta Canada Sunday night, December 13th. The event entitled, MALICE At The PALACE # 2 will feature 2 IKF Title bouts and an exciting undercard. Here are the title bouts;
Fighting for the IKF North American Amateur Super Welterweight International Rules Kickboxing Title will be Trevor Desjarlais (11-4-1) of Calgary, Alberta, Canada facing off against Jacob Salas, 12-2 with 8 KO's from Courtland, CA, USA. For the IKF North American Amateur Welterweight Muay Thai Rules Title, Sokhim Or, 6-1 with 4 KO's, of Calgary Alberta Canada will face off against Joe Sarkissian of Los Angeles, CA, USA. For more info on this event, contact Mr. Mike Miles at (403) 244-8424 or e-mail by clicking HERE.
MORE NEWS OF 12-9-98. . .
Mike Mattox Ready for IKF Illinois
IKF Promoter Mike Mattox is all set to kick off his IKF debut event on Saturday night, December 12th. Although Mattox has promoted martial arts events before, this will be his first kickboxing event. Assisting Mattox will be IKF associate Rob Zbilski of Buffalo Grove Illinois. The event will be held at the Dixon VFW on Route 38 in Dixon Illinois, USA. IKF co-founder Dan Stell of Fairfield, CA, USA will be the event referee and co IKF representative with IKF associate Craig Monyelle of Beloit Wisconsin USA. For more info on the event, please contact Mr. Mike Mattox at (815) 288-4998 or you can Fax Mr. Mattox at (815) 562-9014.
MORE NEWS OF 12-9-98. . .
Marinoble Moving On to Pro Ranks
With an undefeated amateur record of 12-0-2 with 5 knockouts, Roseville, California, USA's Dave Marinoble, 5'11", 166 lbs and 29 years old has made the official decision to turn Professional. Marinoble won 3 IKF United States titles in the Light Middle, Middle and Super Middleweight divisions. Marinoble simply got frustrated with no one left to fight as an amateur, and those who he was scheduled to fight, kept backing out all the time.
Marinoble announced his decision today at the Press Conference of the Regan vs Hagins IKF Intercontinental Title Bout to be held tonight at the Radisson Hotel in Sacramento, CA, USA. On the same card, Marinoble will corner for brother Mike Marinoble against Dewey Cooper of Las Vegas and Marinobles student Tawn Saephan when he faces champion Brett Spaid as Spaid defends his IKF U. S. Amateur Light Welterweight title. Marinoble will stay in the Middleweight Division and hopes to be more active worldwide. You can now find Marinoble in the IKF Pro World Full Contact Rules Middleweight Division by clicking HERE
TUESDAY, December 8th, 1998, AT 6:00 AM
Duke Roufus
Wins IKF World Title
While
Kostuck Edges Sakasem...Again.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA: IKF Promoter Duke Roufus packed the Eagles Club Ballroom in Milwaukee with an attendance of over 3,000. He then pleased the sellout crowd by winning the IKF Muay Thai Super Heavyweight World Title over Hirawa TeRangi of Auckland, New Zealand. It was a great end to a very successful year for Team Roufus and IKF Team Wisconsin. Roufus hosted 6 IKF sanctioned events in 1998 and has more than that planned for 1999. Team Roufus & Phetnoi Gym made it obvious that Milwaukee is the Heart of Muay Thai in the USA.
Roufus, modest as usual refused to take center stage as the main event vowing to give his own up and coming fighters the headline position. Roufus was fight number 5 on a night of 8 bouts. However it was clear that the majority of the crowd was there for "The Duke!"Roufus (219, 31-4-1 with 22 KO's) defeated TeRangi (219, 27-6 with 12 KO's) by unanimous decision 50-43 on all 3 judges cards. He knocked TeRangi down with a head kick in round 1 and forced another standing 8 on TeRangi in round 4. Roufus had commented before the bout that a past injury to his right hand forced him to ease up on throwing the big punch. It showed clearly that Roufus had no desire to knock TeRangi out, only get in some good skill work. TeRangi used the ropes cleverly to lean away from Roufus' attack nearly every time. Frustrated by TeRangi's defense, Roufus went over the ropes after him and both almost fell to the judges table several times. TeRangi had flew to Australia to train and spar with Robert Wilesmith's group several weeks before the fight since he had no sparring partners in New Zealand. WKA Cruiserweight World Champion Grant Barker of Australia came as TeRangi's cornerman since Wilesmith had prior commitments. Although elusive, TeRangi never seemed to press Roufus who wanted to fight more of a counter fight but was never given the opportunity. With strong kicks and a great left jab that woke TeRangi up several times, Roufus seemed to be doing all the attacking. TeRangi however kept the crowd alive as he smiled after many of Roufus' blows. When the fight was over, both fighters appeared they could go 5 more rounds. However at the end of round 5, Roufus had pulled a hamstring that he felt later in the night. It was a good bout for Roufus who hasn't fought for some time.
The Duke is now ready to take on any and all challengers in a defense. That is, if anyone is willing to pay him what he's worth which seems to be the problem in kickboxing today. Very few champions get paid their worth. Roufus was over looked in K-1 USA this last year. Who knows, maybe he will get another K-1 shot soon. Looking back on his career, he KOed Stan "The Man" Longinidis at the Foxwood Casino in Conn. USA, in the first round and many thought he clearly defeated Curtis Schuster some time ago. However the judges declared it a questionable draw. Schuster KOed Jean Claude Leuyer in this years K-1 USA but couldn't continue against Rick Roufus due to a knee injury giving Rick the win. Rick who currently holds the IKF International Rules Heavyweight World Title went on to represent USA in the K-1 Japan. Unfortinatly, he lost to Franscisco Filho of Brazil by leg kick KO, 15 seconds into the second round in the first round of the tournament. But lets just set the record straight. Whether talking about Duke or Rick, the ROUFUS name means WINNERS and CHAMPIONS!!
The Main Event was clearly the fight of the night featuring the long awaited rematch between the IKF Intercontinental Junior Welterweight Champion Richard Kostuck with 19 wins, 4 loses with 9 KO's of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA against 40 year old ledgend, Sakasem Kanthawong with *43 wins, 10 loses, 1 draw and 33 KO's of Indianapolis, Indiana, USA via Thailand. (*We believe this record should include a lot more bouts, but this was what Sakasem told us back in May of this year.) Kostuck won the title with a close victory over Sakasem back on May 30th, 98, winning by unanimous decision, 50-46, 50-46 & 48-47. However in their last meeting and clearly not this one either, Sakasem never looked 40 years old during either bout. Fighting like a fresh 20 year old he fought toe to toe with the younger Kostuck, 27. Both fighters went back and forth on exchanges of hands, kicks and knees. Every time Sakasem seemed to get Kostuck in trouble, Kostuck hung on tough and fought back strong. On all 3 judges cards, Kostuck won rounds 1, 3 & 5, 10-9 while they split round 2 in which 2 judges saw it for Kostuck, 1 for Sakasem. In round 4, all 3 judges scored it to Sakasem 10-9. In our opinion, it could have easily been a draw but if a winner had to be picked, Kostuck would get the nod as he stayed busier during 4 of the 5 rounds. When Sakasem fired strong, they were flurries that Kostuck answered back quickly to each time. As the judges saw it, round 4 was Sakasem's as Kostuck got himself into trouble early, getting dazed by one of Sakasem strong and fast hand combinations. Kostuck spent the entire 4th round eluding Sakasem and trying to regain composure until the bell ended the round. From the start of round 5, both came out firing but Kostuck had rested well on the break and always seemed to finish each of the heated exchanges between the two. Kostuck retained his title with a unanimous victory, 49-46, 48-47 and 49-46. However, let it be known that at 40 years old, Sakasem is STILL one of the BEST Muay Thai fighters in the world today. Could we see these two face off for a third match? Sakasem is not only a champion fighter in the ring but a respected individual out of the ring as well. Liked by MANY who have had the opportunity to meet him in person. Kostuck too is a great roll model for Muay Thai and the sport of kickboxing. Which makes everyone now believe more and more and say about this Kostuck guy, (who by the way is a full time grade school teacher).. That Hey...THIS KOSTUCK GUY IS FOR REAL!... As if there was any doubt ..... Great fight Rich!
The undercard featured some mis-matches but not to the fault of the matchmaker. Seems several "BOXERS" in Milwaukee challenged several of Roufus' Thai fighters claiming they could take them out with their boxing skills. Well boxers, let what happened in Milwaukee Wisconsin be a lesson to you...Roufus' Brad Fowler(4-0 with 4 KO's) took apart Harold Johnson ( 8-10 with 6 KO's) by first round KO. Than Roufus' Paul Svehlek ( 13-1 with 10 KO's) introduced several knee strikes to John Davis (58-5 in boxing) before knocking him out with a knee to the chest followed by a quick knee to the face at 42 seconds into round 1. Than as if that wasn't enough, seasoned boxer Donnie Pendleton with over 200 boxing matches to his credit lasted a whole 17 seconds into round 1 as IKF Pro World Junior Middleweight Muay Thai Champion Kongnapa (Over 180 Thai fights) landed 1 leg kick..."1" and that was it...Heck, his pre fight Muay Thai Dance was longer than the fight... Again... let this be a lesson to you boxers... Those legs and knees can hurt...
Keeping pace with USA Amateur boxing was an IKF Junior Division bout between 2, 8 year olds. Al Warren of Indianapolis, Indiana, USA out pointed Sam West of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA, 29-28, 29-28 and 30-27 for his first win.The IKF Junior Division bouts are 3, 1 minute rounds and fighters wear full protection. Headgear, shin pads along with of course, gloves, groin cups and mouth pieces. Check out the Junior Division by clicking HERE
Heavyweight Muay Thai fighter Mark Vinesbright of Indianapolis Indiana, USA entered the ring chiselled like a video game warrior fighter showing more muscle rips and curves than The Hulk. However, his 6-0 record was erased by Jason Johnson of Milwaukee Wisconsin, USA as he lasted Vinesbright's strong round 1 attack. Vinesbright won round 1 on all 3 judges cards 10-9. However in round 2, Johnson pressed the fight scoring with several "STRONG" knees to Vinesbright's face and chest. His attack forced a standing 8 count to Vinesbright who seemed winded from the attack of Johnson. Johnson moved ahead on the score cards from the 8 count as he won round 2. Vinesbright lost his wind early in round 3 and eventually, referee Al Wickers made the right decision and stopped the bout at 1:11 of round 3. Johnson moved to 2-0 while Vinesbright dropped to 6-1.
Rounding out the bouts of the night, Roufus' Vin Bounnanong (8-2) lost a unanimous decision to Tom Carpenter (6-3) of Minneapolis Minnesota, 29-28, 30-27 and 29-28.
After the event, Roufus, as always, hosted an all expenses paid after hours party where we, again as always, get to know everyone on a more personable note. It was here that we got to know Grant Barker and Hirawa TeRangi a little better. We found out once again that there are NO STRANGERS to the IKF. Only friends we have never met. These two are "CLASS ACTS" and we are sure to continue working with them both as things come up for them with the IKF. It also seems that TeRangi will be hosting some IKF Kickboxing events next year in New Zealand as well as Robert Wilesmiths 1999 IKF events in Australia. We look forward to the visit and once again, seeing our new IKF World Team Members from the great land down under... For more info on upcoming Team Roufus Kickboxing events click HERE! Or, contact Milwaukee Kickboxing & Fitness at (414) 319-1151.
MORE NEWS OF 12-8-98. . .
Regan
Featured on
Niavaroni's Sacramento, CA, USA
IKF Event.
Wednesday night, December 9th at the Radisson Hotel in Sacramento, CA, USA, IKF promoter Nasser Niavaroni will host 3 great IKF Title Bouts and a strong undercard. The well known IKF North American Full Contact Rules Champion Eric Regan of Citrus Heights, California, USA will be fighting for the vacant IKF Intercontinental Pro Middleweight Title against Cecil Hagins of Albq. New Mexico. Also Jongsanong Fairtex of San Francisco CA, USA will meet Fernando Calleros of Albq. New Mexico, USA for the vacant IKF Pro Muay Thai Intercontinental Junior Middleweight Title. In an amateur title bout, IKF U.S. Light Welterweight Full Contact Rules Champion Brett Spaid of Roseville, California, USA will defend his title against local challenger, Tawn Saephan also of Roseville, California, USA in a local grudge match. There may also be 2 other title matches on this event. Watch for more news Tonight... Press conference is at 1:00 PM at the Radisson Hotel in Sacramento today. The weigh-ins are 11:AM also at the hotel, Wednesday morning. Event doors open at 6:30, bouts start at 7:PM. Main event at 9:30 PM. For more info, contact Mr. Nasser Niavaroni at (916) 726-5425 or (916) 782-4757.
WEDNESDAY, December 3rd, 1998, AT 12:00 AM
Roufus &
TeRangi
Ready for IKF
World Muay Thai Title Bout.
Jeff "Duke" Roufus of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA and Hiriwa "Kiwi Destroyer" TeRangi of New Zealand are ready to meet in the ring at the Eagles Club Stadium in Milwaukee, Wisconsin USA for the vacant IKF World Super Heavyweight Muay Thai Title. Roufus, 30 wins 4 loses and 1 draw with 23 KO's has been extremely busy as the organizer of the event as well. TeRangi, 25 wins, 9 losses with 15 KO's trained in Australia with IKF associate Robert Wilesmith. However Wilesmith had other commitments and had to send top heavyweight fighter, Grant Barker , 41 wins,10 losses, 32 K/O's of Australia as TeRangi's cornerman.
The event will be on Friday night, December 4th and entitled, "Return To Glory". It will be the first bout for Roufus in over a year. RINGSIDE INC. will be the proud event sponsor supplying all the bout gloves and other equipment. RINGSIDE INC. Representative Joe Taylor will be in attendance. IKF President Steve Fossum will handle the promotion details to free up Roufus so he can concentrate on his bout. Fossum will also be the IKF Event Representative along with Joe Taylor from RINGSIDE INC. In addition to Roufus' bout, IKF PRO Intercontinental Jr. Welterweight Muay Thai Champion, Richard Kostuck of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA (17-4 with 9 KO's) will defend his title in a re-match with Sakasem of Indianapolis, Indiana, USA (43-8-1 with 33 KO's) For event ticket Info Contact Team Roufus & Phetnoi Gym at (414) 319-1151.
WEDNESDAY, December 2nd, 1998, AT 4:30 AM
IKF ENGLAND / EUROPE?
So you want to know how things went in Europe over the weekend? Well lets just say... FANTASTIC... ! The IKF had planned to meet with another sanctioning organizarion to discuss co-sanctioning and the much needed in kickboxing, "Unification World Title Bouts". However, the other organization backed out of the meeting only a day or so prior, thinking the IKF would only USE them to promote the IKF organization. "It's really a shame" says IKF President Steve Fossum. "We had hoped to work together for the better of the sport. Instead we came away the sole winner out of it all. No, were not complaining. Why complain when you take out the competition if you could call it that?We're just shocked the other organization threw such a great opportunity away for them. We met with several top kickboxing people who will be working with the IKF in Europe, North America and abroad in 1999. Again, I just feel bad that the other organizations don't want to do Unification Title Bouts. It was a big win for the IKF and a Major Loss for the other organization and I don't even think they realize what they threw away. But they will soon enough. Oh well, know one can say we didn't at least try. But what a loss. A Very Major Loss!"
IKF Europe Representative Alby Bimpson of England has been promoting the IKF organization to a lot of top kickboxing people in the UK and abroad. Already, the IKF has over 30 promotions on the books for their 1999 Europe schedule, many of which have yet to be added to the IKF Upcoming Events page. That number will easily double if not triple by end of 1999. The IKF is predicting over 60 IKF Sanctioned Kickboxing events in Europe for 1999 and that's being conservative from the contacts they have made in Europe.
The IKF hopes to be working in various capacities in 1999 with such kickboxing names as John Blackledge, Steve Humphries, Stewert Green, Lisa Howard, Lisa Houghton, Richard Smith, Chris Ballard, Keith Nathan, Allan Crackin to go along with Bimpson, Chris Wright, Ronnie Green and Trevor Ambrose of England, Jan Cree of Scotland, Fernando Loio of Portugal, Thom Harinck of Holland, Gor Vardanian of Armenia. Not to mention their growth in Australia, Africa, South America and Asia. Keep watch of the IKF pages as the WORLD TEAM Continues to grow for the better of the sport. Keep this in thought...
"Great things can be accomplished for those who don't mind who gets the credit, and there is No "I" in TEAM."
Hang on tight IKF World Team! 1999 is already proving to be a DYNAMIC year for the IKF TEAM! Kickboxing is finally becoming organized WORLDWIDE! Not by individuals, but by a group of people who truly want to help the sport grow and improve. A group of people known as the IKF WORLD TEAM! Who will join next? Maybe you? The door is open and you're ALWAYS Welcome. We look forward to meeting more new friends for the IKF WORLD TEAM.
MORE NEWS OF 12-2-98. . .
World Champion Johnny
Davis
Is BACK!
Kickboxing World Champion Johnny "Superfoot" Davis has finally slowed down with his new business enough to send us an update for his kickboxing instruction page. Click HERE to check it out.
FRIDAY, November 20th, 1998, AT 6:45 PM
IKF/RINGSIDE
Regional Divisions Announced
The IKF and Ringside Inc. are organizing the Official IKF/RINGSIDE National Amateur Tournament. The National event will feature championship titles for fighters fighting in 2 different fighting styles. International (Leg Kick) rules and Full Contact (Above the Waist) Rules. Eight divisions will host Regional Championships and each winner in each weightclass will be invited to the US National Championship Tournament held in August, 1999. The IKF is still confirming promoters for tournaments in various divisions. If you are a promoter and wish to be a part of this first ever, TRUE National Kickboxing Championships, please e-mail the IKF by clicking HERE. or contacting the IKF World Headquarters at (916) 663-2467. IKF Promoters Duke Roufus and Rob Zbilski have already scheduled the date for their Central North Division Regional Tournament for April 17th. Here are the Regional Divisions and some of the promoters who have shown interest in promoting events in their regions.
Pacific North West Division: Washington, Montana, Oregon, Idaho, Wyoming, Northern California, Northern Nevada & Alaska. Possible Promoters: Tat Mau Wong, Nasser Niavaroni, Jack Gluck, Tim Stell & Billy Soksoda.
Pacific South West Division: Hawaii, Southern California, Southern Nevada, Arizona & New Mexico. Possible Promoters: Abe Belardo, Eric Nolan & Dennis Alexio (Hawaii)
Central North Division: North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Michigan & Indiana.Possible Promoters: Duke Roufus, Rob Zbilski, Mick Doyle, Craig Monyelle, Ronnie Deleon & Mike Mattox.
Central Division: Colorado, Utah, Kansas & Missouri.Possible Promoters: TBA
Central South Division: Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana & Mississippi. Possible Promoters: Keith Cory & Mike Carlson.
South Eastern Division: Alabama, Florida, Georgia & South Carolina. Possible Promoters: Sean Whol, Caroline Mixon & Mike Carlson.
Eastern Central Division: Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Delaware & Ohio. Possible Promoters: Jeff Mullen.
North Eastern Division: Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine & Rhode Island.Possible Promoters: Vladimir Borodi & Rick Broider.
MORE NEWS OF 11-20-98. . .
More Big Names Added to
IKF Wilson
- Kimber Event
Kevin Rosier vs Mike Labree? It seems confirmed that these two will fight for the vacant IKF World Super Heavyweight Full Contact Rules title on the Don "The Dragon" Wilson vs Dick "The Destroyer" Kimber event coming in April, 1999. All that may stop these two from meeting would be a loss in their preliminary bouts before the events. Rosier hopes to face Anthony Elmore sometime in January and LaBree's preliminary opponent has yet to be named. The winners of the paliminary bouts will meet on the Wilson-Kimber event in April 10th, 1999 in Massachuttes, USA. The PPV event also plans to feature Rick Roufus as well. There were plans to have Rick meet Dennis Alexio but this meeting doesn't seem likely. According to sources, Alexio wants more than the 6 figures he was offered him which would have been Alexio's biggest payday ever. It is possible, Roufus may face off against Stan Longinidis on the event instead. More details soon.
MORE NEWS OF 11-20-98. . .
Stepanov
Pulls Out Against
Duke Roufus
It seems that Dimitri Stepanov of Minsk, Belarus has pulled a fast one on his opportunity to win an IKF World Title. Stepanov recently ask for 3 times his origional contracted fee to fight Jeff "Duke" Roufus for the IKF Super Heavyweight Muay Thai World Title on December 4th in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA. After asking for the higher fee, he then pulled out of the fight. From what we have been told, Stepanov had re-thought about his opponent and decided recently he wanted more money after an agreement was already made. Although the decision put a tangle in Roufus' quest for the IKF World Muay Thai Title, IKF President Steve Fossum says a new opponent may already be found. Currently, Fossum has been in contact with IKF Australian Representative, Robert Wilesmith and Wilesmith has offered Hiriwa TeRangi of New Zealand to be Duke's opponent if the figures work out. The IKF should have confrimation of this by Monday, November 23rd if not sooner. Keep watch for the details.
WEDNESDAY, November 18th, 1998, AT 9:30 PM
Mick Doyle's IKF IOWA Results
By Brooks Mason
Sorry for the delay but here are the results of IKF Promoter Mick Doyle's IKF Mongoos Productions, Iowa event on November 7th at Harvey's Resort Casino in Council Bluffs Iowa, USA.
TUESDAY, November 17th, 1998, AT 5:30 PM
IKF
Gladiators
In National
Shootfighting Championships!
Members of Redwood City, CA, USA's Gladiators Training Academy will be participating in the upcoming National Shootfighting Championships on December 5th in Davenport, Iowa. Academy owner Engene Jackson will participate along with top IKF Ranked Amateur Muay Thai Fighter Doug Evans. Both were also a part of the recent Team USA's Full Contact Karate (San Shou Style Fighting) event that took place in Armenia on November 7th. Both Jackson and Evans won their bouts by KO in Armenia along with Gladiator team member Cary Nathan who won by decision. The Shootfighting Championship Event which is promoted by Monte Cox will feature a total of 48 of the best amateur fighters in the nation - 8 per each of the six weight divisions, qualified for the event through regional competition in Iowa, Texas, Ohio and Hawaii. For more info, you can contact the guys at Gladiators at (650) 361-9923 or check out the Extreme Challenge website by clicking HERE
MORE NEWS OF 11-17-98. . .
Where has
3 Time
IKF US Champ Marinoble
Been?
WINNING, Where Else...
Someone asked the other day, "Where has IKF Champion Dave Marinoble been?" Well, to begin with, keep in mind that most fighters out there, do have things they do other than fighting such as jobs, hobbies etc. The last time we saw Marinoble fight was on Tat Mau Wong's event in San Francisco, CA, USA on May 9th, winning by TKO. He's also kept busy over the last 6 months at both his karate schools he operates with his brother and IKF fighter, Mike Marinoble. Mike was scheduled to fight Pete Garcia of Redding, CA on the last IKF Medford, Oregon USA event. However Garcia pulled out about a day before the event , reason unknown. Recently, Mike along with 3 other students under Dave's leadership were promoted to the rank of Black Belt. In Marinobles style, Black Belt is quite an accomplishment, unlike some of the quick course black belt schools we see a lot of today, so we say congratulations to both Dave and Mike. Knowing this alone would explain how busy Dave has been. However, for this man of endless energy ( a reason we nicknamed him "The Madman..." ) that just wasn't enough. Oh by the way, Dave's also married with 2 children which in itself takes time. Over the last year, Marinoble has been driving over 100 miles every week up to Reno, Nevada, USA to train with the United States JuJitsu Team. Last month, the team took a Silver medal at the JuJitsu World Championships which were held this year in Reno at the Reed Auditorium. This year, the event hosted 15 country teams from all over the world. Marinoble, fighting in the Light Heavyweight Division at 173 lbs. won 3 of his matches and lost 1 on points. Team England won the Gold and has been winning it quite a bit since the series began in 1984. Each team consists of 5 main first string members with 3 alternates. Marinoble was on Team USA's first team. So next time you wonder what happened to a fighter, just ask. We'll do what we can to let you know what they've been up to...
MORE NEWS OF 11-17-98. . .
IKF Illinois & Pennsylvania Postponed
Due to unexpected circumstances, IKF Promoters, Phil DeRocco and Ronnie Deleon were forced to postpone their upcoming IKF events scheduled for November 20th and 21st. DeLeon's event planned for the 20th in Butler, Pennsylvania USA will be rescheduled due to a sickness in his family and DeRocco will reschedule his event which was planned to be held at Alton, Illinois to January, 1999 due to some unexpected problems with matchmaking. For more info, you can contact Mr. Ronnie Deleon at (618) 628-3907 or Mr. Phil DeRocco at (724) 282-1644
SUNDAY, November 15th, 1998, AT 2:55 AM
IKF SAN SHOU
ARMENIA
A Knockout Success!!!
On any given weekend around the world in nearly every country, gladiators of the ring fighting sports meet in the ring of battle in the toughest one on one sport in the World... Kickboxing! But lets just take the sport of Kickboxing one step further... Add in throws, sweeps and takedowns and you have San Shou. Or as they call in in Europe, Full Contact Karate under the leadership of the IFCKF (International Full Contact Karate Federation) But call it Full Contact Karate, Chinese Boxing, Draka or San Shou, it's all the same thing and it came from one origin... "San Shou". Sure, a fighters goal is to win and to win by domination if possible. But when the IKF and Team USA travelled to a small country below Russia known as Armenia to the town of Yeravan, we discovered something much more valuable than a victory by knockout. We discovered that no matter who wins or loses, there are no strangers to us in our sport. Only friends we have never met yet.
Many here in America had no idea the event even took place, and probably still wouldn't have known if we didn't report about it here on our web site. However, to the 6,500 plus spectators in the crowd on November 7th at Hamaleer Stadium in Yerevan Armenia, they'll be the first to tell you, you missed a great show! But the show was only a small part of what this country had to offer in friendship and hospitality towards all of us on Team USA. To truly understand how sincerely grateful we all were to the people of Armenia, let us start from the beginning.
We took off from Los Angeles Airport on Monday, November 2nd about 6:PM and after traveling through 8 different time zones and approximately 12 hours later we arrived in Moscow Russia. A quick run through customs and it was back on another plane to Armenia about 3 hours away. We arrived in Armenia a bit past midnight Armenia time and as Team USA stepped off the plane we were greeted by cameras and press reporters, interested in our arrival. Dressed in full matching USA uniforms top to bottom, the fighting team consisted of
Featherweight Dominic Viloria of North hollywood CA, USA. Welterweight David Solomon of Azusa, CA, USA. Middleweight Doug Evans of Redwood City, CA, USASuper Middleweight Cary Nathan also of Redwood City, CA, USA and Cruiserweight Eugene Jackson of East Palo Alto, CA, USA Along with the US Full Contact Karate Federation Associate Ken Arutyunyan of North Hollywood, CA USA who organized the team itself and myself, IKF President Steve Fossum. I went along to oversee the event for the IKF as well as be an assistant coach for Team USA. I was also asked to do some announcing during the event as well.Arutyunyan a native of Armenia put the team of 5 fighters together on very short time notice. Two of the fighters had never done San Shou style fighting ever before. Featherweight Dominic Viloria, 32 for example is an experienced Muay Thai fighter with a 26-3 record. However he had never done San Shou style fighting before with the throws and takedowns. At the last moment the team needed a Welterweight and Arutyunyan found David Solomon. However, Solomon, unknown to Arutyunyan, had never even been in a full contact bout before let alone Full Contact San Shou. Solomon, who holds a black belt did though have a lot of experience as a continuation fighter. At 18, Solomon was the youngest of the team and in for quite an experience.
The remaining 3 team members were the pride of Redwood Cities, Gladiator's Training Academy. As a full contact kickboxer, Cary Nathan had struggled before, posting a record of 3 wins and 4 loses. The last time we saw Nathan fight was against Jerico Lane of Redding, CA for the IKF California Super Welterweight title in Hayward, CA back on May 11th, 1996. A bout he lost by unanimous decision. However few people knew that Nathan had been active as a San Shou fighter over the years having fought quite a few bouts in San Shou Style events. At age 37, Nathan was appointed as the team captain. Nathan was still battling a severe cold but wouldn't miss the trip and experience for anything.
The last time we saw 25 year old IKF Fighter Doug Evans he was fighting for the IKF Amateur Muay Thai Rules United States Middleweight Title in San Francisco CA. It was a bout he was stopped in at 1:17 of the 4th round by Harry Vacarro of San Diego, CA, USA. Evans' record as a Muay Thai fighter is 10-2 with 8 KO's and although impressive, Evans best game is in the throwing and fighting style like that of San Shou which came in handy when doing NHB/Cage fighting bouts around the Western US & Hawaii.
Rounding out Team USA was a man high on life itself. With a name like Eugene Jackson, it just sounds like a name that's been around awhile. Ask anyone who travels within the circles of the exclusive west coast submission/NHB/cage fighting events and Jackson's name reads like a household name. This would be the first time I had ever heard of him let alone seen him perform. From a first glance, Jackson, owner of Gladiator's Training Academy in Redwood City, CA, looks like a Bear ready to Rumble. And don't get me wrong, he can "RUMBLE". However, more important is the story behind this strong man. Some may remember his name from the troubled streets of East Palo Alto CA. From those streets, Jackson, with the love and support of his wife and kids, rose up and grew into a strong leader among his peers. His passion for his family is just as strong as his passion for his training. He proved to be the gentle giant among us all with his respect and appreciation towards everyone. Jackson is not just a great fighter, he's a respected gentleman who never demands any respect but proved to everyone that he was always deserving of it. Armenia was an experience for all of us, but for the 32 year old Jackson, he was like a young child on vacation in awe, praise and appreciation of everything we were a part of. Lights, camera, action! Pictures, interviews and autographs! A world obviously much bigger than the streets of East Palo Alto California. Get use to the fan fare Mr. Jackson. Your life will truly have a lot more than the 15 minutes of fame we all are said to be blessed with in life. Even at 32, Jackson, in my opinion has a lot of fight in him proving his strength, speed and stamina in our workouts together at the IFCKF's gym in Armenia before the event. Little did we all know that inside him was a grizzle bear just waiting for it's moment to perform. But Evans and Nathan knew...They train with him daily at Gladiators.
Meeting us with the press at the Armenian Airport was the President of the IFCKF, Gor Vardanian and his protective security staff. Vardanian, like Jackson was soft spoken as well and it was obvious this man was a very powerful individual in Armenia. Probably what impressed Team USA the most was the gracious hospitality and true friendship Vardanian and his associates gave to us all. Although in another country, everyone there made us feel like we were at home. It seemed anytime we asked for anything, we always got the same response from our head bodyguard, "No Problem" which was always followed by action. Once we got our bags we were taken to a beautiful new customized van which proved to be our exclusive limo transportation vehicle during our stay. We were taken by escorted motorcade to the Dvin Hotel where we were given our rooms and a chance to rest a few hours before starting a busy week.
Over the next several days we were shown the town by Vardanian and his associates. Every day was filled with eating fancy meals, meeting more great people of Armenia, sight-seeing, shopping and of course daily training sessions at Vardanian's IFCKF's gym. As each day past, each of us as part of Team USA got to know each other a little more. Sparring and grappling with each other in training as well as sharing our past. It was a chance for all of us to relax without the pressures of our daily lives. Once again, as the saying goes, we were no longer strangers to each other, only friends who had never met. As time went on, the bond of Team USA was not a bond of fighters. Over time, we became more than a team, we had become brothers watching over each other in a far away land. But as all fighters know, the most important day was Fight Day, which came soon enough.
That day had finally come, November 7th, Fight Day, Armenia vs USA. It was just like out of the movie "The Best of the Best". The weigh-ins were held in an official capacity with all judges, referees, trainers, coaches and other officials present at the hotel. Within a couple of hours, everyone had made weight and now came the waiting...until fight time to go to the venue.
At about 1:30 PM, Armenian time (1:30 AM USA West Coast Time), we loaded up into our limo van and were escorted to the Beautiful and Dynamic Hamaleer Stadium. Once inside, our security team escorted us once again to the teams dressing room where they set up camp. Within a couple of hours it was opening ceremony time. With the stadium dark, a spotlight focused on a distant corner the announcer announced the entrance of Team USA and through the smoke of the smoke machine they appeared, one by one. Jackson took the lead followed by Viloria, Solomon, Nathan and Evans. This was their moment and they made the most of it as a team. The crowd of 6,500 plus stood to their feet giving a gracious and dynamic Armenian welcome. With their arms waving to the crowd, Team USA took the stadium by storm with their custom red white & blue team uniforms and hats designed by Team organizer Ken Arutyunyan. After Team USA came Team Armenia and then the other fighters of the night for the events other bouts which included Russia and Ukraine. Once the fighters surrounded the San Shou Style Ring (Platform floor with no ropes) there were several presentations, including the awarding of 4th degree black belt to IFCKF President Gor Vardanian from Chuck Norris' fighting style. When presentations were done, all the fighters returned to their dressing rooms to wait..and wait....and wait....
Team USA had to wait for 5 undercard bouts to take place which included a total of 42 rounds of fighting. When the other bouts were finally completed, once again, Team USA came out followed by Team Armenia. As each fighting pair were introduced, they met at center stage/ring, and as a show of sportsmanship and friendship, they exchanged gifts along with a handshake and hug for luck and prayers for a great match. When introductions were done, it was finally FIGHT TIME for Team Armenia vs Team USA.
First up for Team USA was Doug Evans. He weighed in at 72 3/4 Kilos or 160 lbs. His opponent, 23 year old Ohanian Karen of Armenia was highly favored with a record of 25 wins and only 1 loss with 12 knockouts. The first round started with Evans scoring big with leg kicks and throws. But the Armenian crowd lifted to their feet when Karen knocked Evans to the floor with a strong spinning back kick. It seemed to be the only strong kick Karen landed in round 1. Both fighters exchanged evenly with punches.
(At the end of each round, the scores are announced which was actually a great idea we thought for ANY type of ring fighting. Maybe we will begin this in kickboxing with the IKF.)
At the end of this round 1, the judges had Karen winning which was a big surprise to those of us scoring at ringside. However, let the fight go on. In round 2, Evans was committed to the throw and within a few seconds, Evans took Karen "AIRBORNE" and slammed him to the ring floor knocking the wind out of him. Karen tried to stand but his knees wobbled and he collapsed. Although there was a little bit of a question among the Armenian judges on how to score the knockout, the judges eventually awarded Evans with a knockout and a quick 2-0 TEAM USA lead. (1 point decision win, 2 points KO win)
Second up for Team USA featured highly rated Muay Thai fighter, Dominic Viloria who earlier weighed in at 57 Kilos or 125 1/2 lbs. His opponent was a VERY experienced fighter in this style of fighting. At 19, Miranian Varazdat of Armenia had a San Shou Style fighting record of 18 wins and only 2 loses. He weighed in at 59 Kilos or 130 lbs. All of us knew Viloria would be working the leg kicks early but what we didn't expect was Viloria being rushed to the edge of the ring where he turned his ankle on the ring edge, slipped and fell, hitting the back of his head on the corner of the ring knocking him dizzy. After looking into his eyes, Team USA cornermen, Evans and Jackson kept him down to avoid any serious head injury and Team USA forfeited a knockout loss to Team Armenia. The score now stood at an even 2-2. After reviewing this bout on Video, the video showed that Varazdat had hit Viloria with a solid forearm as he approached the edge of the ring, but it was not noticed by the referee.
Next up for Team USA was team captain Cary Nathan who weighed in at 75 kilos or 165 lbs. His opponent, a much younger 19 year old Israelian Gor of Armenia was no child in the ring with a fight record of 17 wins and only 2 loses. The biggest disadvantage to Nathan though would not be his cold that had drug him down in training all week, but Gor's height. Nathan stood 5'8". Gor towered above Nathan at 6'3". When the fight began, Nathan went to work in a methodical, work horse ethic, gutting out each and every takedown he knew while scoring with leg kicks and overhand rights. When the scores of round 1 were announced, it was a tie and the way Nathan's cold was effecting him, it was a mental victory in itself for him. In round 2, Nathan again went to work. Not just stand up fighting, he "Went to Work" sticking to a skilled game plan. Nathan again scored on the inside with throws and overhand rights. When round 2 came to an end, Nathan's cold proved to be quickly wearing him down physically. As the announcer announced the results, Nathan was announced as the winner of round 2 and again, it pushed him even stronger with his mental edge. However round 2 came with a price. Nathan broke his lead knuckle on his right hand and knew now he had to focus on his throwing skills. In rounds 3, Nathan's hand throbbed miserably and his focus begin to slip. At the end of the round, it was announced Gor had won and now each fighter had 1 round a piece and a tie round. Nathan was in pain, and the match was all tied up with 3 rounds to go. Things didn't look promising for Nathan and Team USA. Again, he dug in like a draft horse pulling a plow. Grinding out throws and strikes, and at the end of round 4, the judges announced another tie. Again, Nathan won a mental victory and he again let the tie score remind him that he was still in the bout, pain or no pain, fatigue or not, he can still win. At Gladiator's Training Academy where Nathan trains in Redwood City, they have a saying, "Your Weakness is my Strength, Your Fear is my Courage, Your Loss is my Gain." It was obvious Nathan was focusing on such a message on this night. Another strong methodical work ethic in round 5 and as the round ended, the announcer announced Nathan winning round 5. Team USA erupted with excitement, pumping Nathan up at ringside. However, Nathan knew there was still 1 round to go. With the way he was feeling, a knockout by Gor was not out of the question. A knockout and Armenia goes up 4-2. Nathan didn't have the strength due to his cold for a knockout himself. Also, his right hand had swelled even more in pain which left him with no power punch. A loss in this round and Team USA would not take a lead, ending up tied still. Nathan took the floor for round 6 shaking hands with his opponent to begin the round. As if he were to take the future and outcome of Team USA into his own hands, he dug in again, inch by inch, throw by throw, Nathan's mental edge worked on Gor, frustrating him over and over again. When the final bell rung, we all had no idea who would win the round and then came the announcement, "Winner, Cary Nathan, USA" and Team USA went wild. A 3-2 lead with 2 bouts left.
Team USA next had, 18 year old David Solomon who weighed in at 66 Kilos or 145 lbs. His opponent, was 21 year old Avakian Vache of Armenia Vache's didn't know Solomon had never been in a full contact fight before and with a Full Contact San Shou style bouts record of 33 wins and 6 loses, it looked bad for Solomon. Not many were giving much of a chance to the young and inexperienced Solomon once it was discovered he was not an experienced full contact fighter. Many said to expect a quick knockout. But also, no one knew the type of training we all shared with Solomon over the last week while at the gym in preparation for his match. Sometimes, the mind can endure what the body questions. As round 1 begin, Solomon's Team USA pride stood tall, not cowering down to Vache as expected by some. Solomon stood strong throughout round 1 despite being thrown several times and as expected by the throws of Vache's, the first round went to Armenia and a 1-0 score. It was clear Solomon was inexperienced in defending from throws but his corner crew helped him out tremendously. By the end of round 2, Solomon was still standing toe to toe with Vache taking everything Vache had to give him but also, Solomon was beginning to land some strong strikes as well. Still though, Vache wisely kept taking advantage of Solomon's inexperience in defending the throws and scored big on them. Round 2 went to Vache but in round 3, Solomon begin to get comfortable. He realized Vache wasn't hurting him at all with his punches and kicks and Solomon begin to fire back several strong combinations. As round 3 ended, Armenia went up 3-0, however the match to those on Team USA was not about winning anymore to the young Solomon. It was about Team USA Pride and Mental Strength and Solomon had a lot of it in the ring on this night. In round 4, Solomon scored big with hand and feet combinations but Vache still had the edge on throwing which gave him the round again. By round 5, Solomon's stamina looked like a fresh race horse as he danced and slipped Vache's attacks. Solomon scored on kicks and punches again and it was Vache who looked beaten and tired. However, the throws scored big for Vache once again and proved to win round 5 for him. Solomon came out fresh as ever in round 6, now comfortable in the ring, afraid of nothing Vache had for him while Vache was clearly tired and if the bout had 2 more rounds, there may have been a different winner. Solomon was now able to stop several of Vache's throwing attempts in round 6 and was even throwing Vache now. As the fight came to an end, Vache was announced the winner by decision and the Teams were all tied up again at 3-3. However, a personal victory was won when the round 6 winner was announced and it was Solomon. He not only survived Vache but he did what few non contact fighters get to do. Feel the "RUSH" of Full Contact Fighting. Great job David!
As the night came to an end, it was time for the big boys to take the stage.Eugene Jackson hit the scales earlier in the day at 87 & 3/4 Kilos or 193 lbs. Jackson's original opponent, Khachatrian Vahram pulled out the week of the fight for unknown reasons and was replaced by someone with quite a bit more experience than Jackson expected. Jackson, 6 wins and no loses with 6 KO's would instead face 26 year old Artavazd Harutunian of Armenia who topped out at 88 Kilos or 193 1/2 lbs. Jackson knew he had his work cut out for him in this match when it was discovered that Harutunian's fight record in San Shou Style fighting was 24 wins, 1 loss, 3 draws with 18 KO's. The stage was set for a war between the Big Bears!
As round 1 begin, Jackson waited patiently for Harutunian to make a move but he just circled Jackson. Wanting to get busy, Jackson lunged in a very quick and strong shuffle side kick to Harutunian just missing him short. Jackson again rushed Harutunian and he retreated off the platform. As they restarted, they begin to circle again, then suddenly, Jackson charged like a grizzly on attack, knocking Harutunian back with punches and eventually off the platform. Harutunian's body and head bounced on the floor and he quickly went into convulsions, shaking uncontrollably on the arena floor. Dozens rushed to his side working to free his mouth piece and get an airway in his mouth so he could breath. Four ringside doctors rushed in and took control trying to control Harutunian's convulsions and save him. One begin heart pumping on his chest while the others worked on the airway. As doctors worked frantically and the crowd stood silently in shock, all members of Team USA knelt on their knees at ringside and begin to pray for Harutunian not knowing what was happening and only fearing the worst. Finally the scare was over and Harutunian's eyes gained control and he spoke a bit as he tried to sit up. Doctor's kept him down and put him on a flatboard and lifted him to a stretcher and rushed him to the hospital. It turned out he was OK. After the fear for Harutunian had been calmed and everyone was assured he was going to be OK, the judges awarded Jackson the win and Team USA won the event 3-2. Yes, it was a win, but more important, Team USA would like to send out our prayers to Harutunian in hopes he is completely recovered from the fall. Victory is always good, but as Harutunian's opponent Eugene Jackson put it himself, "My concern is for Harutunian, not the win of a fight. I just hope he's OK and that he knows our prayers are with him."
When the night came to an end, Team USA was well respected
