Saturday, November 27, 2010

Robin Hood Ethics

Robin Hood Ethics

To put it lightly, Robin Hood ethics is pretty easily described at “What would Robin Hood do?” We all know the story of Robin Hood, who stole from the rich to give back to the poor. It’s a little different in Russell Crowe’s newest rendition of the story, but you get the picture. Robin Hood ethics for a journalist is something that I often use. When reporting something that is a touchy subject for a certain group of people. I make sure that I report it in a way that will create the least amount of harm to the reader as possible. This in no way means lying, it means not including harsh facts that could potentially harm a reader.

When reporting a story one time, I wrote about someone who had a very well known spouse. At the time, my editors got a hold of the information that they were in the middle of a divorce. This information was irrelevant to the story and using my Robin Hood ethics, I continuously asked the editors to leave that part out of my story. But it was too late, once the copy editors got a hold of my story, they reported the divorce and it was out of my hands. The article did more harm than good and that one small part of my story was now the center of it, instead of my touching piece that I originally wrote.

I was so devastated and so was my interviewee. It was hard to face this person after I came to hear about how upset they were when this information was printed. But I explained the situation and sent the person my original story. Which was met by approval.

The publication received a lot of slack from that, and this could have been avoided if Robin Hood ethics were used. No matter how many readers that the article would have drawn with the divorce fact, it took away from the original message of the article.

Robin Hood ethics is the way to go. And has proven itself very affective with many of the publications that I work for.

Persuasion... or Propaganda?

Persuasion… or Propaganda?

It is very important as a public relations professional to not mislead the public in any way, shape or form. There are so many ways to avoid this. And I think the best way by doing so is to expose your purpose right off the bat in order to not mislead the true meaning that you are trying to get across.

By simplifying the situation and by not persuading the public to only agree with your cause by persuasion, you will avoid manipulation. It is important to leave emotion out of your press releases, so that the public is not confused by your intentions. I have found that by supporting a press release with true and honest facts, journalists and the public is much more receptive to the information. This excludes persuasion and manipulation.

Because who wants to manipulate the public to join their cause. By throwing in that a company is donating a certain percentage of profits to a company and by reporting extensive research on the charity, it directs the public from the real cause- that is, for example, to launch a yacht party with the biggest celebrities. How does this event help a charity? See what I mean? Just be honest in what you’re reporting. If you have to try to manipulate the public to gain interest, than you should probably go back to the drawing board and come up with a new strategy.

Whose rights are right?

Whose rights are right?


For every right, there is a right. What are my rights? And when am I overstepping them as a Public Relations Professional? I may be against something, while someone is for it. So how do I instrument this into my expertise?

The bottom line is that it is not my job to justify a particular right. But at the same time, I will always uphold my personal ethics and if I do not agree with something that I have been assigned to, I much rather leave my voice out of the project and take a neutral stance than to be taken off of it. That maybe shocking to some, but I look at it in the light that although, I do not stand for that particular right, I see the other view for that right.

For example (Mom, please don’t get mad when you read this): The “going green” movement is not one of my top priorities in my life. I think that the new recycling grocery bag that you can buy at any grocery store is a bit extensive and an honest waste. I mean, it’s a waste of recycled energy and recycled products. And organic sweaters are just seemingly ridiculous. I don’t want my sweater made of bark and my buttons made of tin cans.

I am not a big supporter of the green movement, however, I can see someone’s right to pursuing this movement. I can appreciate it and therefore take on a responsibility to promote it as the PR professional.

It’s not my job to expose what is right or not, it’s my job to keep a level head and to leave opinions out the door to serve my client’s best interest.

Media Relations: the breeding ground for ethical problems

Media Relations: the breeding ground for ethical problems

I have been in both positions as a Public Relations professional and as a journalist. As a journalist, it is easy for us to sweep press releases from pushy publicists under the table. It is easy to overlook potentially amazing stories because of the previous notion and attitude that I have about press releases and public relations professionals.

And as a Public Relations professional, I know how annoying it is when my press release can’t be pushed into media. It is frustrating to work with journalists who can’t seem to see a great story right in front of them via the press release.

But as interesting as it is, journalist and PR professionals need each other equally. According to Ethics in Public Relations by Patrici Parsons, “Journalism literature suggests that 40-50 percent or more of all news that’s reported on any given day has its origin in PR departments.”

I completely agree with this because when I work on my website: www.MuayThaimes.com, most of the content that comes through are press releases. This is the most effective way to report the news. Sometimes stories even come out of press releases. It’s a very efficient way for a journalist to produce accurate news stories. Press releases are appreciated and so too are the individuals behind them!

Staircase to Respect

Staircase to Respect

Respect in all areas of life is a very important thing to have. But for the Public Relations Professional, respect is everything. As a PR Professional, one should have an appeasing and respectful image for potential clients and colleagues.

It is important to have a good and respectful image because along with a positive reputation comes more clients and more demand for your expertise. As the public relations professional, it is important to develop a certain image for one’s self as well as for their client. This is achieved by manners, composure, appearance and strong work ethics that are clearly displayed.

By having good manners, one achieves respect for others and by having respect for others; others will have respect for you. By treating everyone with respect, it will allow a positive image for the professional and thus, the professional will climb the staircase to respect. Respect is earned, not handed out.

“It takes 20 years to earn respect and 5 minutes to ruin it.”- Warren Buffet.

Sunday, September 26, 2010

BAMMA USA Coverage

Here are a few videos from BAMMA USA's first fight night from Friday at the Commerce Casino in LA. The show was sold out and had 8 great fights. View my full recap and results at: www.MMASpot.com


Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Interviews




Fighters who I have interviewed so far: (that I can remember in one sitting)

Bas Rutten
Fabricio Werdum
Vitor Belfort
Guy Mezger
Paul Buentello
Pedro Rizzo
Cris Cyborg
Georgi Karakhanyan
Jens Pulver
William Sryapai
Mike Brown
Javier Vazquez
Bao Quach
Karen Darabedyan
Giva Santana
Romie Adanza
Dan Henderson
Malaipet
Jared Papazian
Jason Andrada
Bobby Green
Victor Valenzuela
Greg Guzman
Hugo Sandoval
Kathy Long
Din Thomas
Gegard Mousasi
Jake Shields
Martin Kampmann
Lynn Alvarez
Sevak Magakian
Brent Magnussen
Melvin Guillard
Ando Deremenjian
Sako Chivitian
Manny Gamburyan
Wanderlei Silva
Jason Parillo
Joey Pagliuso
Gokor Chivityan
Christy Riddering
Sheila Telliard
Michelle Percival
Jason Yglesias
Gene LeBell

Each of these people inspired me in some way. They are great fighters and great people. I know I am missing a few interviews, but it's amazing to see how many fighters I have been blessed enough to meet in just a year of being in this industry.

Like I always say:
It's not about me. It's about getting stories from great fighters and individuals in this industry. Everyday I am inspired. I realize that not a lot of people get inspired by their job. I do. And at the end of the day it is worth it.





Ultimate MMA work

Here is my print work for Ultimate MMA Magazine's August issue: My first feature on WEC's Karen Darabedyan





Ultimate MMA Coverage



Here is my work in Ultimate MMA's July Issue: Melissa Jo Collins, Razor Rob, Bas Rutten, Georgi Karakhanyan, Natalia Villegas,














Sunday, August 15, 2010

Pedro Rizzo, The "Vet"

Check out my interview with Pedro Rizzo on his upcoming fight against Tim Sylvia and a different kind of "Vet"

Jens Pulver interview

My interview with Jens Pulver- I had to interview one of my favorite fighters, Jens Pulver. Here it is.

Thursday, August 12, 2010

Lynn Alvarez




Here is my article for MMA Spot on Lynn Alvarez, who is fighting Jessica Aguilar at Bellator tonight!! Live on Fox Sports Net!

www.mmaspot.net/index.php/redblack/comments/20100811_on_the_spot_lynn_alvarez/

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Cal Baptist Coach Killed In Fiery Freeway Crash - KNX

Cal Baptist Coach Killed In Fiery Freeway Crash - KNX

In memory of Coach Wendy Rice.




Tonight I learned that my college cheer coach, Coach Wendy Rice, passed away due to a car accident. Coach Wendy was one of the drivers who volunteered to take the CBU Cross Country team to their training camp in Mammoth.

She was my coach when I was on California Baptist University’s cheer team 2008-2009. She helped us to be our best, always. I had never had a coach that was so dedicated to her team as Wendy was. She had all of the answers, all of the details and everything organized for each of us girls. This was truly the most organized colligate squad ever because of her thoughtful dedication.

When I was on the team, our squad was very close and we were all like sisters. We went through all of the ups and downs together and Wendy always found a way to get us all together for team events. I have made some lifelong friends from those events, from those practices and from being on a top cheer team.

In 2009, our team did great at nationals, and I will never forget the look on her face as she congratulated us when we came off of the competition floor. All of the hard work was worth it to see tears in her eyes as she told us all how proud she was of us.

Despite the bruises, sweat and tears, we all were pushed to become the best athletes that we could possibly be. I was pushed at times to my limit and I am so thankful for all that Wendy taught us. She taught us to be strong, to persevere, she taught us to be our very best. I was performing at my very best athletically by the middle of the cheer season. We all were.

Though I did not renew my contract for the 2010 season because of work, I told Wendy at our exit interview, that she was truly the best coach that I have ever had. I thanked her for the opportunity to be on her squad, because it was a very special transition time of my life.

That next year, I would go to a few games and always cheered louder for cheer squad than for our basketball team, because this group of ladies is an amazing and inspiring and loving group of individuals. Every time that I would see the girls in or out of uniform, I felt like I was home. I have never been on such a tight knit team than ours. And we can thank Wendy for that.

Wendy loved her team, she was a great mother to her kids, Joe and Caitlyn and a loving wife to her husband. One of Wendy's passions was photography, she had this beautiful way of capturing the most special moments on camera. She had us close every practice with a prayer and would teach us devotionals regularly, She had the ability of letting anyone open up to her. She was a loving, honest, respected and driven lady and she will be missed. I will never forget her as a coach, as an individual and as a woman of God.

My thoughts and prayers go out to Wendy’s children and husband and family. I’ll be praying for all who were involved in the accident, May God Bless you all. This is a very sad loss for CBU, Wendy Rice, will remain in the hearts of many. And is now in the arms of our Lord, Jesus.

Here is the link to my interview about Coach Wendy for CBS- http://cbs2.com/local/car.accident.six.2.1851966.html

Thursday, July 8, 2010

THE BULL

Here is my article on Muay Thai Legend, William "The Bull" Sryapai. He will be fighting in the WCK Muay Thai World Championships in August.

http://www.muaythaimes.com/2010/05/the-bull-muay-thai-can-be-found-in-his-grip/

Local Bellator Battle!

Here is some Bellator coverage on a featherweight bout featuring two of the Inland Empire's best fighters. This ran in the Press Enterprise
http://www.pe.com/sports/boxing/stories/PE_Sports_Local_D_web_mma_13.3771aa7.html

Guy Mezger Interview

Check out my interview with Guy Mezger for MMASpot.com. This was a great interview with Mr. Mezger, who has been on the MMA scene since before UFC!
http://www.mmaspot.net/index.php/redblack/comments/20100614_guy_mezger_retirement_coaching_and_nutrition/

DIN Thomas Interview

Check out the link below to my Interview with Din Thomas, who was set to fight Ricardo Myorga at the Shine fights last month. After all of Mayorga's smack talk, he backed out and the fight was cancelled the day of the show!

http://www.mmaspot.net/index.php/redblack/comments/20100510_open_media_workout_with_shines_din_thomas_and_ricardo_mayorga/

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Once




She was always about work, so busy, too busy. Too busy for happiness, too busy to act her age, too focused on her career and there was hardly anytime for herself. It was business as usual. Until she met him, and he met her. She was his and he was hers. For the first time ever she had her own him. It happened once. Love happened once. He took away all of her fears, he made her laugh, he replaced work with daily opportunities to be happy again. She found her voice through him. She loved being loved and for the first time she knew what that feeling was like. All of the times in the past that she had been let down, no longer mattered. She forgot everyone’s name before him. He blew them all out of the water. This is what she was looking for. She was that still river, always focused, pure and determined. And he was like the rapid that stirs a river, unpredictable, wild at heart and brave. She was not use to being so loved, so appreciated and so taken care of. There had to be something wrong, how could someone love her so much? She started pushing him away and stopped understanding his wild heart. His rapids soon mellowed down into ripples, to change his ways for the smooth and peaceful her. But it didn’t work. She loved him so much that she wanted him to be those rapids again. So she chose a different path. Her river turned into a stream that simply glided over the cobblestones at the bottom of a once raging and beautiful body of water. Could she ever be loved like that again? Could she ever love another? Her stream is still and waiting. He became a rapid again and she could not be more pleased. He still loves her and she still loves him. It happened once. Love happened once and she won’t forget that feeling for any other feeling in the world.

Breanna Armstrong (c) 2010 "Once"

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

MMA Spot - Vitor Belfort ~ Sacrifice, Discipline And Humility

Check out my article on MMASpot.net on Vitor Belfort. Thanks Behind the scenes will soon follow.

MMA Spot - Vitor Belfort ~ Sacrifice, Discipline And Humility

Thursday, April 15, 2010

Strikeforce Interview with Gegard Mousasi, Jake Shields and Dan Henderson

Behind the Scenes: A Day in the Media
By Breanna Armstrong

Behind the scenes of my interview with Gegard Mousasi, Jake Shields and Dan Henderson at the Strikeforce open media work out day on March 17 at Legends MMA gym in Hollywood, Calif.

It was a scorching, hot day in Hollywood as I stepped into Legends, the outside appearance of the gym was not so pretty. There were shabby dogs running around, and a pretty beat up gate surrounding the wear-house like gym. I didn't know what to expect. When I stepped into the gym, it was like I stepped into an art gallery. The walls were painted in bright colors and the interior design was fit perfectly for an elite gym.

Although it was still stuffy, being inside a gym that literally creates legends was worth it. My photographer and close friend, Lisa and I entered the gym where the Strikeforce fighters were working out to showcase themselves to the media. There is Dan Henderson, the fighter that I am so use to seeing in the UFC, now in his glory now as a most honored and anticipated Strikeforce fighter who is going up against Jake Shields for the title on April 17.

Shields was standing on the other side of the room with his belt, calm, collected and cool. All cameras were on Aoki, the superstar from DREAM. DREAM's Vice President was there to showcase him now, as a Strikeforce contender going up against the also present Gilbert Melendez for the title.

Every time I see King Mo, I feel his confidence rising off of him, sometimes lifting him up about a foot off the floor. Well, that's how the media responded when he walked into the crowded room full with martial arts equipment like a cage, a ring and jiu-jitsu mats. Which is a home a way from home for this elite group of warriors. King Mo was all smiles and when he stepped into the cage to throw down for the media's fancy. He had everyone laughing. I feel like most laugh and encourage, because he is the last person in the world that you would want to get on his bad side.

I go downstairs to interview Dan Henderson, who is relaxing without media interruption. Then and just then, Gegard Mousasi, walks through the doors. He had his typical ivy style cap on with a white shirt and a little cut under his eye. Casual. I have met him once before and threw some questions his way while we were at the Called Out MMA fights in January. Instead of getting to fully enjoy his time at the fight, of course, the humble Mousasi was more than happy to appear to be enjoying his time answering some questions for me.

I walk up to Mousasi to shake his hand and re-introduce myself, but he already was way ahead of me. He smiled and remembered who I was and I got right in there for his first interview out of many more to come that day. It was a good interview... I am looking forward to his fight against King Mo, who has been talking smack on Gegard non-stop. Gegard's response to his opponent's criticism: I'll take it out in the ring. Class act.

Back to Dan, our interview also went smoothly and we got to joke around about how he was not doing anything for St. Patty's day. His teammates that came with him were hilarious, I kind of doubt they sat around their hotel room on St. Patty's day, they were too lively of a crew, although none of them wore green. I felt most comfortable interviewing Dan. I was a little intimidated to at first, until he just had a way of making everything come so naturally. He is a really chill and down to earth kind of guy.

I then made my way back upstairs to interview Dan's opponent, Jake Shields. I have always been a pretty big fan of Jake, ever since I saw him on Bully Beatdown. I knew that he would be a cool interview. I was right. He was very professional and thorough with his answers. This guy is only 9 years older than me, and he is this HUGE superstar fighter. I have the utmost respect for the professional fighter. It takes a lot of sacrifice to get where these men are today, standing in front of probably 60 people all wanting an interview with them, a picture of them and a shot at the spotlight through them.

Who could get the best interview? Who could get the best picture or the most hits on their article? And all these fighters are thinking is: fight, train, eat, sleep. It takes commitment, it takes perseverance and it takes control. Being in a room of legends at Legends in Hollywood was truly an enlightening experience.

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

Update

Just an update on what's been going on-

I am writing for www.MMASpot.net and I just started my new blog for www.UltimateGrapplingMag.com and I am still devoted to Muay Thaimes Mgazine. We just launched out new site- www.MuayThaimes.net Check them all out!

Check out the next issue of Ultimate MMA Magazine it comes out this week you can find it pretty much anywhere- from 7 eleven to Borders :) I am loving every second of my internship with the Magazine and I am looking forward to a few future projects that I am currently working on.

If you want to see links to my work check out the right side of my blog, under "My Work" Tab. I am going to stop posting my articles on here and just post the link up instead because I have been writing a lot lately.

If you have any ideas for stories that you would like to read about or interviews you would like to see, let me know, e-mail me at BreannaArmstrong@gmail.com :) I would love to hear from you!

Saturday, March 6, 2010

Ultimate MMA May 2010 Work

Check out Ultimate MMA Magazine's latest issue, to see what I have been up to! Here are a few clips bellow:






WMC Muay Thai Fights (www.MMASpot.net)


WMC: Welcome To California Recap And Results
Article author: Breanna Armstrong. Posted on 03/06 at 12:47 PM

It was a successful event for the World Muay Thai Council (WMC) on Friday, March 5, as fight fans came out to support the WMC’s first appearance in California. The Quiet Cannon nightclub in Montebello, transformed into a stadium fit for a memorable Muay Thai show.

The night had six action packed amateur and two professional fights. In the main event, Muay Thai legend, Coke Chunhawat (41-8-1) entered the ring comfortably as he sought to destroy his opponent, Tampa's Dan Rawlings (13-5), as fast as he could.

Coke never ceases to put on a show for his fans or audience, and that is exactly what he did. He practically danced around Rawlings, who was taking some powerful strikes from Coke. In the third round, Rawlings started it off with a kick to Coke’s stomach that triggered a rampage from the vet, until Rawlings surrendered 46 seconds into the round.

In the WMC’s amateur featherweight title bout, a rematch between Jessie Magusen (4-6) and the undefeated (at the time) Ruben Ekyotin (4-1) was the most anticipated bout of the night. Both put on a brutal fight, exuding the fact that they had met their match. However, fans were able to see a different Magusen as he defeated Ekyotin via split decision.

“I have seen all of Jessie’s fights, he is really improving and one to watch for,” said highly-regarded judge Nelson “Doc” Hamilton.

The women’s match between Michelle Percival, training out of USKO in Riverside, Calif., and Joslyn Mikow, training out of Fairtex in San Francisco, had fans out of their seats as the two power house 135 pound fighters battled it out in the ring.

Percival’s reach was too much for Mikow, and it resulted in a unanimous decision victory for Percival.

“It felt really great, I had a good training camp that helped me to see that I can keep taking a step forward,” said Percival, whose only loss came in December 2009, via decision. “This time I initiated quicker. I started counting on my cardio. I am looking forward to my next fight and I am thankful that Joslyn could come down here from San Francisco.”

Percival’s teammate, Riley Miller (0-1), making his debut, did not have the same success as Percival. Miller lost by decision to Robert Wendiwlier (2-0), who trains out of Team Oyama in Irvine, Calif., under Colin Oyama and Muay Thai WBC Champion Romie Adanza.

It was successful night for Team Oyama, as Wendiwlier’s teammate, Oscar Sanchez also won, defeating Dereck Leung (1-3) via split decision.

Results:

Amateur Bouts:
Oscar Sanchez defeated Dereck Leung (1-3) via split decision
Robert Zakartin defeated Mike Herman via TKO in at 0:50 of Round 3
Victor Acosta (4-3) defeated Erik Alignay (1-2) via unanimous decision
Michele Percival (4-1) defeated Joslyn Mikow (1-2) via unanimous decision

WMC Amateur Featherweight Title:
Jessie Magusen (4-6) defeated Ruben Ekyotin ( 4-1) via split decision

WMC Heavyweight Bout:
Robert Wendiwlier (2-0) defeated Riley Miller (0-1) via majority decision

Professional Bouts:
Chike Linsey (13-1) defeated Nathan Willet (8-3) via TKO in Round 3

WMC Lightweight Championship Title:
Coke Chunhawat (41-8-1) defeated Dan Rawlings (13-5) via TKO at 0:46 in Round 3

Friday, February 26, 2010

FiOS TV- Every MMA Fan's Dream Come True

SHOWTIME's Interactive Strikeforce Event: Where the sports fans play.

We all put our two cents in as we watch our favorite fighters go at it on television sets all over the world. It doesn't matter if your watching a fight by yourself or in a crowded sports bar, let's face it we are going to make some noise.

We are going to turn to our buddy and take on the role of an official or judge and say what this guy should have done to this guy. What if you could put all of that energy in and actually interact with other viewers and fighters DURING the fight!?

Here is the ultimate MMA fan's dream come true: Tonight, FiOS TV will add a new level of interactivity today with the launch of SHOWTIME Sports Interactive during the Strikeforce Challengers mixed martial arts telecast. The event airs tonight (Friday, Feb. 26) on Showtime HD East Coast feed (Channel 865 on FiOS) at 8 p.m. Pacific.

MMA fans who are SHOWTIME subscribers on FiOS TV will be the first to have instant on-screen, on-demand access to a wide array of interactive features during the Strikeforce event including: viewing fighter profiles, customizable stats, a trivia game, voting in viewer polls, and more, with the touch of a button on their FiOS TV remote. It's all free to SHOWTIME subscribers on Verizon FiOS TV.

I can't think of a better way to watch Strikeforce. If you are a FiOS TV subscriber, you will have the chance to view this new network's interactive experience first. According to Verizon's press release: All FiOS TV customers with a high-definition set-top box who subscribe to SHOWTIME will have access to the interactive experience.

This takes watching this sport to a new level. I can't think of a better target audience then MMA fans. If you want to learn more about FiOS go to www.verizon.com/newscenter

Have fun playing.

King of the Cage Results

Full results for King of the Cage “Arrival” from San Manuel Indian Bingo and Casino in Highland, California on February 25th are listed below:

Aaron Arana def. Chris Wolf via Submission (Armbar) @0:27 of Round 1

David Gomez def. George Sanchez via Unanimous Decision

Ron Keslar def. Jonathan Brandon via Submission (Rear Naked Choke) @0:34 of Round 2

Dave Rivas def. Martin Bautista via Unanimous Decision

Musa Tolliver def. Sasiprapa Malaipet via Unanimous Decision

Waachim Spiritwolf and Ismael Gonzalez Technical Draw (Illegal Elbows Prompt Doctor Stoppage)

Reuben Duran def. Ryan Diaz via KO (Punches) @4:57 of Round 3

Junior Welterweight Championship:
Bobby Green def. Rick Legere via TKO (Punches) @4:27 of Round 1

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

Upcoming MMA Events

Upcoming Events
(featured in Ultimate MMA Magazine's latest issue)

Following is a list of upcoming events, so mark your calendars, palm pilots or Blackberries.
FEBRUARY 20

What: Dollamur Grappling Championship

Where: Texas

Info: www.nagafighter.com
FEBRUARY 21

What: UFC 110

Where: Australia

Info: www.ufc.com
FEBRUARY 25

What: King of the Cage: Arrival

Where: Highlands, California

Info: www.kingofthecage.com

FEBRUARY 26

What: Tuff-N-Uff

Where: Orleans Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada

Info: www.tuffnuff.net

FEBRUARY 27 (tentative)

What: Total Combat

Where: Arizona

Info: www.totalcombat.tv

MARCH 6

What: WEC

Where: Nationwide Arena, Ohio

Info: www.wec.tv

What: U.M.A. U.K. Open Team Grappling ‘Challenge Cup’

Where: Wallace Sports Centre, Staffordshire

Contact: Jim McSherry Tel: 01283 510321

Info: www.umauk.co.uk


MARCH 13

What: UFC 111

Where: New Jersey

Info: www.ufc.com
MARCH 20

What: Grapplers Quest

Where: New Jersey

Info: www.grapplers.com
What: U.M.A. English Open Junior and Cadet Judo Championships

Where: Wallace Sports Centre, Staffordshire

Contact: Jim McSherry Tel: 01283 510321

Info: www.umauk.co.uk
APRIL 8

What: Bellator Fighting Championship season 2

Where: TBA

Info: www.Bellator.com
APRIL 10

What: UFC 112

Where: United Kingdom

Info: www.ufc.com
APRIL 17

What: Grapplers Quest

Where: Florida

Info: www.grapplers.com
What: U.M.A. English Open Junior and Cadet Grappling Championships.

Where: Wallace Sports Centre, Staffordshire

Contact: Jim McSherry Tel: 01283 510321

Info: www.umauk.co.uk
MAY 1

What: UFC 113

Where: Montreal, Canada

Info: www.ufc.com
What: U.M.A. British Open ‘No Gi’ Groundfighting Championships.

Where: Wallace Sports Centre, Staffordshire

Contact: Jim McSherry Tel: 01283 510321

Info: www.umauk.co.uk

Friday, February 19, 2010

Heat Music Festival



UC Riverside’s Heat Music Festival takes back Saturday
By Breanna Armstrong and Lisa Luna

With over 11,000 music lovers and 16 music artists; Heat Music Festival was a success from the opening DJ to the headliner band, Taking Back Sunday.

The University of California Riverside held the fourth annual Heat Music festival on its campus Saturday, Feb.13. Heat is an annual music festival that falls on the university’s homecoming week. Heat Music Festival’s line-up included a diverse mixture of artists, from electronic musicians to rock bands.

Heat Music Festival contained two music stages and one dance stage. While people crowded around the southland stage listening intently to eight different artists throughout the night, the main stage kicked it off with the band Shiny Toy Guns,who played an hour set that led to every fan dancing and singing along to their songs.

“It is amazing out here tonight, so many people,” Janett Loera, UCR freshmen said. “I think that it’s really cool that all of the students had a discount to be here tonight. I am having a blast.”

The crowd continued to grow as the anticipation rose for The Crystal Method to take the stage. The Los Angeles based electronic duo were full of energy, never failing to keep the crowd wanting more. At the end of their set, The Crystal Method said, “We don’t come out here very often, but I will say we will be back here soon.”

As the bass of the speakers on the main stage vibrated through the crowd, the lights flashed, reflecting off the faces in the front row, and hands were thrown up in the air, Heat Music Festival officially started when Taking Back Sunday took the stage.

Taking Back Sunday began their performance with a classic song, “Cute without the ‘E’ (cut from the team)," sending the crowd into frenzy. As they kept playing, the crowd of fans continued quickly grew into a mosh.



Although it was their first time performing at Heat Music Festival, Adam Lazzara, the lead singer of Taking Back Sunday, told the ‘Banner’ it was their third time performing in the Inland Empire, and “It is absolutely wonderful to be at Heat.”

For Blake Spencer, a CBU senior, it was his tenth time seeing Taking Back Sunday in concert. “I was so surprised that they played that many songs. They had amazing stage performance. I even went to the back of the stage and they gave me the drummer’s set list. It was a great night,” Spencer said.

Heat was a huge success with the impressive light shows on all three stages to set the ambiance, the excitement and the mob of people that gathered across UCR’s campus to share in the same commonality for the love of music.

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Olympians go to College Too!


Photo credits: AP

By Breanna Armstrong

The life of a college athlete can be more than stressful and at times, down right unbearable. Having to juggle more than just classes, athletes have to train everyday, and sometimes twice a day. It’s the waking up early, the eating right, the traveling and keeping up with their homework that often defines their daily life.

Not to discredit any athlete but something has stuck out to me in the past few weeks, something that I am sure has stuck out to a lot of people. There are more that a few college students that are participating in the 2010 Vancouver Olympics.

These athletes are in a league of their own; most have been preparing their entire lives for this one season, this one moment to get a chance to receive a medal while representing their country. These athletes have more than a town, a state, a college and a team behind them, they have the entire country’s eyes fixated on their performance.

The Olympic schedule is a more than just waking up early, eating right and training everyday. These athletes literally meditate on their events and hold their performance at top responsibility. As an Olympian, throwing college into the mix would seem over bearing. But these athletes are the most trained professionals in the country and can handle more than just the Olympian schedule and the chaos of college.

A group of college student Olympians that has stuck out to me has been the select few students that attend Westminster College in Salt Lake City, Utah. Most of Westminster’s young Olympians are on America’s ski team. There are approximately nine Westminster students on the ski team, and America has already been sweeping up the medals in the ski competitions.

Bryon Wilson, 21, is a freshman at Westminster College, and is majoring in art. He received the bronze medal representing team USA in the men’s freestyle skiing competition. Not a bad thing to put on his resume after he graduates from college.

It is a very commendable act for anyone to represent their country in the Olympics, but for these college students to represent, it is truly remarkable.

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

How to be a Professional Fighter's Girlfriend


By Breanna Armstrong

It is the task that almost seems pointless, scary and at times frustrating. Being a professional fighter’s girlfriend takes an uncontrollable amount of patience. The girlfriend not only has to deal with the grueling schedule that is demanded by her man’s trainers, managers and sponsors, but she has to deal with the girls that comes along with being in the lime light and the occasional mood swings as well.

ROUND ONE. Remember that his mood swings are a direct result of him cutting weight before his next fight. Don’t take it personal if his responses are short and contain words like: “Sure.” “Um” “Yea” or “Does that have sugar in it?”

ROUND TWO. Do not be intimidated of his trainers, managers and sponsors. They see you as a hobby, so look at them with the same regards. When they start putting you on a strict schedule like your boyfriend’s, then and only then should you go for the total knock out.

ROUND THREE. Forget about the girls that are fans of your man and are constantly staring him down. Your man is with you because he thinks you are beautiful without having to wear tight little shirts and short booty shorts. You are respected while they are ignored.

ROUND FOUR. Do not freak out when another fighter has your boyfriend in a headlock. Your man is the most trained expert when it comes to getting out of a situation like that. That’s how he makes his living.

ROUND FIVE. Do not let his success get to his head. That’s almost every pro fighter’s downside and its up to you to bring him back to life and make him feel normal.

Being a successful professional fighter’s girlfriend will be in reach if these steps are followed.

Written: January 28, 2009- a very long time ago. (c) Breanna Armstrong

The Brotherhood of MMA





Photo Credits: www.HyeFighters.com

Check out www.ultimategrapplingmag.com for the version that will be running in print.

Hye Fighters: The Brotherhood of MMA
By Breanna Armstrong



There is a group of elite fighters that have represented their country and culture at all times in the cage. They are located all over the world and come together as a unified group that is better described as a brotherhood. They are the Hye Fighters, and representing Armenia is their number one goal.

Araz Araradian, started the Hye Fighters Organization in August 2007. He enrolled his son into the Glendale Fighting Club in Glendale, California. After becoming involved in the sport, Araz decided to create a website that would showcase all Armenians who were professional fighters. “Hye” means, Armenian in the Armenian language. There were only a few fighters on his site at this time, including the UFC’s Karo Parisyan, who was the only Armenian in MMA at the time.

Since the site’s launch in 2007, Hye Fighters has grown significantly. They have 16 pro MMA fighters, including StrikeForce’s Light Heavyweight Champion, Gegard Mousasi, WEC lightweight, Karen Darbedyan, WEC lightweight, Manny Gamburyan and Bellator featherweight, Georgi Karakhanyan, are a few.

The fighters are mainly located in Glendale, a large Armenian community in LA. It was in Glendale at Phoenicia, an Armenian restaurant that I had the pleasure to meet and interview this family of elite fighters and supporters over a dinner full with laughs, sincerity and the clear presence of a brotherhood bonded by a culture.

“You have to have a lot of heart, we fight with our hearts and leave everything in the cage I think that is what it means to be a true Hye fighter,” explains Karen Darabedyan. “Araz, the creator of the Hye Fighter’s site, has done an amazing job with putting us all on stage. All someone has to do is log onto Hyefighters.com and you can see when we fight next, our record and our updates. It’s been great PR by being on the site and I think that we are all grateful for that.”

The site has every Armenian fighter’s updates with profiles on each fighter with links to their personal websites, which Araz created for each of them free of charge. There is also a feature of the Hye Fighter of the month, a huge honor to receive. Now, two years after the launch of the group driven by Arazs’ passion to promote these fighters, the Hye Fighters have been recognized beyond the fight industry and into their communities.

“We all look up to these guys, I respect their hard work and their dedication to represent our Armenian culture,” says Jerry Hanessian, the owner of Cage Alliance. Jerry sponsors most of the Hye Fighters and is a strong supporter of each of them.

“Being a Hye fighter is like being a part of a team. When you are on a team you perform better because you are pushing each other. It’s motivational and it’s like being a part of a family. I am ten times a better fighter as a Hye Fighter than I am alone as one,” Says Sako Chivitchyan.

“Everyone trains together we train at Gokors, Glendale Fighting Club, Main Event and SK wrestling, we all learn from each other, ” says Sevak Magakian.

In Armenia, MMA is in its infancy, many of the Hye Fighters were originally from Armenia and moved to America and took up the sport that has now defined them. Transitioning into a new culture was easy because through this sport, they found each other and Hye Fighters has glorified this. Whenever any fighter, whether in MMA, Muay Thai or boxing has a fight coming up, the entire group helps that person train for it and is there the day of the fight to provide support.

“The difference of Armenian fighters and others is the heart, the heart and the way that we represent ourselves is unreal,” says Manny Gamburyan.

At the end of the table is the fighter’s trainer, Gokor Chivichyan, when he speaks about the Hye Fighters everyone stops, listens and pays great respect to what he says. “They are like a family to me. When they win, it’s my win. They train very hard and Hye Fighters has brought them together. They lift each other up and I see that and it makes me very happy,” explains Gokor.

Gegard Mousasi was recently visiting from the Netherlands before going to StrikeForce in Miami. While he was in town he spent his entire trip training and visiting with the Hye Fighters. It’s that camaraderie that has left a trademark on this group of elite fighters.

“We have a good family relationship outside of fighting,” says up and coming MMA fighter, Andy Dermenjyan. “Some of us have known each other since we were kids, like Sako and Manny and I.”

“It’s been the best opportunity that I have ever had. The Hye Fighters took me in after I loss to Karen, I was on a losing streak and now I am on a winning streak. The training and support has really helped me a lot,” says Hye Fighter of the month, Jared Papazian.

In their community, they are recognized. Their goal is to be recognized globally.


Beyond MMA
Hye Fighters has nine professional Muay Thai fighters, including WBC MuayThai International Welterweight Champion, Edmond Tarverdyan and
2009 K-1 World MAX Champion and WKN Intercontinental Middleweight Muaythai champion, Giorgio Petrosyan. There are 48 professional Hye Fighter boxers as well.

For more on the Hye Fighters, check out www.hyefighters.com

Friday, February 12, 2010

WORLD MUAY THAI EXTRAVAGANZA

MUAY THAI ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA PRESENTS:
WORLD MUAY THAI EXTRAVAGANZA

March 14, 2010 at the El Monte Expo Center
12051 Garvey ave, El Monte, Ca 91732

WBC 175LB. World Title: 5x3min rounds
1) Kaoklai Kennorising / Thailand, vs. Magnum Sakai / Japan

MTAA 135LB. World Title: 5x3min rounds
2) Saenchai Sor Kingstar / Thailand vs. Tetsuya Yamato / Japan

147LB. Super Fight: 5x3min rounds
3) Bryan Dobler / Dobblers Muay Thai / Fontana, CA vs. Shane Oblonsky / Seal Beach, Ca

MTAA 130LB. U.S. National Title: 5x2min rounds
4) David Huerta / Team Zarate / East Los Angeles, CA vs. Jason Andrada / Master Toddy / Las Vegas, NV

MTAA U.S. National Title: 5x2min rounds
5) Kristin Shepard / Dobblers Muay Thai / Fontana, CA vs. Malia Spynol

130 LB. Bout: 3x2min rounds
6) Justin Nguyen / Team Oyama / Irvine, CA vs. Antonio De La Cruz / San Jose, CA

7) Roy Corona vs. Raul Martinez

135 LB. Bout: 3 x2 rounds
8) Yamato Miura / The Yard Muay Thai / Japan vs. Tony Juan

9) Prudencio Portillo vs. Bounthong Syvanthong

10) Mike Ellison vs. Andy Lazarit

Thursday, February 11, 2010

Papazian Decisions Guzman



photo credits: www.CalledOutMMA.com

MMA FIGHT: He overpowers his opponent with a dominating third-round finish.

Monday, January 25, 2010

By BREANNA ARMSTRONG
Special to The Press-Enterprise


ONTARIO - Jared Papazian defeated Greg Guzman via unanimous decision Sunday night at Called Out MMA II's fight night at Citizens Business Bank Arena.

"It started out really good, I got the takedown. But Jared was very tough the entire fight," said Guzman. "He fought real tough, he completely deserved that win. I just have to get back into the gym and train more."

Said Guzman's head trainer Jake Behney: "Greg is going to drop down to 125 pounds for his next fight, because he only had to cut 1.5 pounds for this bout against Jared," said Jake Behney, Guzman's head trainer.

The fight went three rounds before Papazian won, 29-28, 30-27, 30-27.

In the third round, Papazian got the better of Guzman, getting him in a hold, getting on top of him and punching him in the head until the bell rang.

Friday, January 22, 2010

MMA: San Jacinto's Guzman plays waiting game


photo credit: William Wilson Lewis III / The Press-Enterprise
Greg Guzman (left), who fights in Sunday's MMA card at Citizens Business Bank Arena, spars with Curtis Tomkins during a November workout.

MMA: San Jacinto's Guzman plays waiting game

Thursday, January 21, 2010
By BREANNA ARMSTRONG
Special to The Press-Enterprise

It has been three and half months since Greg Guzman's last mixed martial arts fight.

It has been nearly two and half months since the former San Jacinto High wrestler was supposed to get back in the cage.

What has Guzman done with all that time between bouts?

Train.

Six days a week.

Welcome to the life of an MMA fighter.

As he writes on the bio of his Web page (www.gregguzman.com): "You're either going to experience pain in the training room or in the cage. You have to choose one or the other."

Guzman, 21, finally returns to the cage Sunday night when the CalledOut MMA II event, postponed from November, takes place at Ontario's Citizens Business Bank Arena.

"I was really looking forward to fighting my last opponent," he said, referring to the original Nov. 14 date with since replaced Chad George, who moved over to World Extreme Cagefighting. "But since that fell through (I) couldn't do much but ... just keep training."

Guzman (7-3) will face Jared Papazian (5-4) in the 135-pound division on the Sunday card, which is headlined by the match between UFC and King of the Cage fighter Alberto Crane (12-4) and Albert Rios (11-4). The first bout is scheduled for 6 p.m.

Guzman, who trains out of Pinnacle Jiu Jitsu in Redlands, said his participation on the high school wrestling team inspired him to fight professionally.

"I started fighting professionally three years ago with my wrestling coach, Stan Holmes, as my only source of training," Guzman said. "I trained out of my garage. I didn't have a team or a gym to train out of until I started at Pinnacle. It's really great over here; it's a nice gym and has tough guys."

Guzman fought against current teammate Reuben Duran in the "King of the Cage: Superstars" fight in August. Duran won the bout by unanimous decision. After the fight, Jake Behney, Duran's trainer and the owner of Pinnacle, invited Guzman to join their fight team. He has been training with the Pinnacle team ever since.

"Greg has a positive attitude and great work ethic, he never complains and he puts everything he has into training," Behney said. "He is a very well-rounded fighter and is a pleasure to work with."

Guzman hasn't had a fight since October 3, when he defeated Chris Wolf by submission 2:21 into the first round. Of his 10 fights, six haven't lasted beyond the first round. The others have gone three rounds.

"Jared seems tough, looks like he's not scared to stand up and throw," Guzman said of Papazian, Sunday's opponent, who last fought December 18.

"I feel like I am in the best shape of my life," said Papazian, who has slimmed down to 135. "I'm ready for Guzman. It's going to be a high-pace fight. He is great at jiu-jitsu and a very good fighter. This will be war."

Thursday, January 21, 2010

Bellator's Bao Quach Interview

Muay Thaimes Magazine




Hey everyone, the newest issue of Muay Thaiems Magazine is coming out soon! To order your copy of this fully devoted to Muay Thai magazine check out www.MuayThaimesNation.com

And check out my article on the WCK's World Championship Muay Thai event that was held at the Buffalo Bills Casino on December 5. The article features Malaipet "The Diamond", Joey Pagliuso, Kevin Ross, Romie Adanza, Scotty Leffler, Christina Riddering, Roxy Balboa, and many more powerhouse professionals!

Check out the website's deal- 5 magazines for the price of 4! www.MuayThaimesNation.com

Georgi Karakhanyan signs with Bellator Fighting Championships


photo credit: David Bauman / The Press-Enterprise
Riverside MMA fighter Georgi Karakhanyan will compete in the Bellator Fighting Championships Season 2 series beginning in April.


Riverside MMA Fighter Lands Spotlight in Bellator Series

By BREANNA ARMSTRONG
Special to The Press-Enterprise

January 12, 2010

Riverside's Mixed Martial Arts fighter, Georgi "Insane" Karakhanyan has been added to the Bellator Fighting Championships schedule for Season 2, which begins April 8.

"It felt great to sign with Bellator, it's a great organization. I just want everyone to know that there is a MMA fighter in Riverside that is doing good," said Karakhanyan, 24, who trains at United States Karate Organization in Riverside and Millennia MMA in Rancho Cucamonga.

Bellator (Latin for "warrior") Fighting Championships is a tournament-based series with eight competitors in four weight divisions conducted over 12 consecutive weeks. The series has plenty of television exposure, airing live weekly on Thursday nights on Fox Sports Net with a one-hour taped highlight show on Saturday nights on Telemundo, a Spanish-language network, and a 30-minute taped highlight show airing Saturday nights on NBC.

"Georgi is a proven winner," Bellator founder and CEO Bjorn Rebney is quoted as saying on the BFC website. "He brings an explosive style to the cage that makes for great fights. We are excited to welcome Georgi to Bellator."

Karakhanyan, who is currently teaching and training at USKO, brings a 12-1-1 record into the series.

"This will be a great opportunity for me to show my skills," he said.

Georgi Karakhanyan has a 12-1-1 record.
Said Betiss Mansouri, Millennia's head trainer: "We are confident that he has all the tools to win the entire tournament. We are also hoping that the last few fighters they add to the tournament are truly the best in this weight class the world has to offer, because, we believe Georgi is the best 145 pounder around at this point in time."

Joe Soto is the featherweight champion from Season 1. Karakhanyan would have to reach the final in order to fight Soto.

Friday, January 8, 2010

Muay Thai Rocks Las Vegas

Muay Thai Rocks Las Vegas
by Breanna Armstrong

World Championship Muay Thai rocked the Las Vegas Hilton on July 25, with over 2000 in attendance, as WBC and IKKC titles were not only earned but fought for, to create one of the most noted Muay Thai fights on the west coast.

For 20 years, the WCK has been a prestigious organization in the Muay Thai community across the world. Dennis Warner, the founder of the WCK, has created some of the most renowned shows in this rising sport.

Warner, has held World Championships all over the world under his promotion company, In Sync Productions Inc., and has brought the most international fighters to North America than any other American Muay Thai organization. Warner holds an event every month, holding a promising fight card to satisfy fans at each match.

Henan TV station, based out of China, teamed up with the WCK for this memorable event that brought the attendance of the industries most elite. Randy Couture and son, Ryan, as well as Ray Sefo were some of the names present to the event adding to the exciting atmosphere of the night.

The original fight card consisted of several Chinese fighters. However, due to a problem with their visas, last-minute match-ups had to be made. The show went on.

Jared Lara of Team Oyama in Irvine
WBC MuayThai National US Middleweight
Vaughn Lucas of the Yard Muay Thai in Los Angeles

This was no new match up for Jared Lara and Vaughn Lucas, who have grown quite use to each other representing the other opponent in the ring. Lara and Lucas battled it out before in the WCK’s World Championship Muay Thai in August 2008, which resulted in a draw.

This time the WBC MuayThai National US middleweight tile was on the line for Lara and Lucas. The bout lasted five, long three-minute rounds, both Lara and Lucas were slowing down towards the third round, Lara’s coach Collin Oyama described it as “I think both Jared and Vaughn were in the same situation they both had a problem with weight this time, which slowed them down. Jared usually doesn’t run out of steam like that. But I think that he had enough in the tank obviously to finish him.”

The fight was slow and one could question the qualification for this title’s match-up. Regardless, Lara ended up on top with his endurance clearly defeating Vaughn’s and won by a unanimous decision.

“I wanted to make sure I fought my fight this time, last time I think I let him use his size to control me and the pace of the fight. This time I worked a little more strength training in order to deal with Vaughn’s strength advantage. I unfortunately had a hard time making weight because of the strength training and as a result I got more tired, late in the fight, than I normally would have. It felt great to redeem myself after the draw I had last time. Any win over someone as tough as Vaughn is always great,” Lara said.

“To fight for anything in the WBC or the World Championship Muay Thai, is an accomplishment, and for Jared to be on that level is a great thing for him. He has a lot of heart and is inspiring for making it this far with his hobby and turning it into much more than that.” said Oyama.


Shane Oblonsky
IKKC Welterweight Muay Thai
Scotty Leffler of Las Vegas

For Scotty Leffler, there was not a better place to make his professional debut then on his home turf while he delivered a great fight against Shane Oblonsky as he had everyone in attendance at the Hilton on their feet with enthusiasm.

Leffler started out very aggressive, which overwhelmed Oblonsky, who was on the floor of the mat for the majority of the fight.

Leffler defeated Oblonsky 2 minutes and 23 seconds into the first round by a knee to the head.

Baxter Humby of Los Angeles
Wu Lin Feng Rules Welterweight
Chike Lindsay of Team Khunpon in Atlanta

The bout between Baxter Humby (35-5) and Chike Lindsay (10-0) was one of the most surprising fights of the night. Two crowd favorites came together in a close match. Both fighters were originally matched against two of the Chinese fighters, who had problems with their visas. This made for an unexpected fight.

According to Dennis Warner, The rules of Wu Lin Feng are as followed:
No elbows, effective scoring blows, punch, kick and knees to body and head. Limited clinch...one knee and then reposition clinch. If a fighter falls or thrown to the ground, it is scored as an effective strike. A standard fight is three rounds of fighting and each round is three minutes in duration.

Humby started off strong in the first round, and proved himself the champion that he is against Lindsay, who seemed to not put up much of a fight against him. Humby had a few kicks to back Lindsay up, causing Lindsay to come out stronger in the second round. Humby kept his distance and came out on top in the third round.

Humby took the win via split decision, qualifying him for a shot at a WBC title fight. Humby, know as the “One Armed Bandit,” who was born without his right hand, has been an inspiration to the Muay Thai community and beyond. He is the current IMTC World Super Welterweight Champion and has made his career in Muay Thai as a tough competitor.

After his win, Humby addressed the audience and said, “The only limits that you have are the ones that you put on yourself.”

Romie Adanza of Team Oyama in Irvine
WBC MuayThai International Super Bantam Weight
Paulo Da Silva of Lumpini Crawley in England

For fans that knew the history behind these two great Muay Thai fighters, this was the most anticipated bout of the night. The ongoing saga between the Romie Adanza and Paulo Da Silva continued as the two fighters took to the ring for the third time, making this fight one that was all too familiar.

Adanza and Da Silva’s first bout against each other resulted in Adanza’s favor, but the two had a rematch a year ago, where Da Silva defeated Adanza by KO, taking away his title. Their second fight was a humbling experience for Adanza. “I have never had a belt taken from me before, so after getting stopped by him, I needed my belt back.” Adanza said, “Going into this fight for the third time, I worked on a lot of basic things, like keeping my hands up. I feel like I went into this fight a lot smoother, I was aggressive but I did more thinking than anything because I had to avoid him [messing] me up again.”

A lot was on the line for this fight, the saga between California’s Adanaza and England’s Da Silva could not have been put to rest at a better place.

Adanza, no doubt about it, had the crowd behind him as he stepped into the ring against Da Silva, who according to both Adanza and trainer, Colin Oyama, is the only opponent that has ever stopped Romie in the ring.

In the first round the two started out strong and Adanza clearly had a different and more controlled side to him compared to his last bout with Da Silva. Adanza gave some powerful kicks to Da Silva’s legs, causing Da Silva to lose his lower body power by the end of round two.

By taking away Da Silva’s legs, his punches started to fade early in round three. Adanza’s endurance lasted as he punched and kicked Da Silva into a corner and landed a knockdown by a leg kick in round three. “We knew we had him.” Oyama said.

After a tough battle, Adanza fired leg kicks at his opponent that resulted in a TKO with only 26 seconds into Round 4. Adanza proudly regained the IKKC International Championship title as well as the WBC MuayThai Bantamweight US Championship Title.

“For years I have wanted a leg kick KO, but I always do it with my hands, so this felt really good,” he adds.

A TKO like Romie Adanza’s to end the saga between Paulo Da Silva was the best thing about the night hands down.

Christine Toledo of Master Chan and Anthony Badua in Las Vegas
Wu Lin Feng Rules Woman’s Super Bantam Weight Title
Jeri Sitzes

Jeri Sitzes (11-0) went head to head with Christine Toledo (3-1) for the only woman’s fight of the evening.

Toledo, who was also scheduled to fight the Chinese fighter, Zheng Yenan, had to move up weight by ten pounds to fight Zheng’s last minute replacement, Sitzes, so that she could still put on a show for her fans.

Sitzes, who is a seasoned Muay Thai fighter, clearly dominated the Las Vegan, as she had Toledo in her fire all throughout the entire three, 2-minute, rounds. There is an obvious super star-like quality in Sites, who proves to be a tough competitor, which is why she maintains an undefeated record.

Toledo showed class and grace as she unselfishly went up against Sites, knowing fully what she was going up against, and all for the show to go on.

"When it comes down to it, I accepted the fight knowing exactly what I was getting myself into, so I have no regrets today for what happened on Saturday evening. Instead, I stand true to myself and will admit that I'm not the best, I'm not perfect, and there will always be plenty of room for improvement. I can sit here and make excuses about how much heavier and more skilled Jeri is than me, but the simple reality is that I stepped in the ring that night, I learned from the experience, and that is what counts and is more important to me than trying to reason with myself for the loss,” said Christine Toledo in the press release.


Kevin Ross of Master Toddy's in Las Vegas
WBC MuayThai National US Welterweight Title
Justin Greskiewicz of Cool Hearts Muay Thai/ Daddis Fight Camps in Philadelphia

Kevin Ross (9-4) was looking forward to this fight for 6 months. It was his rematch with Kang En, who defeated Ross on January 19, earlier this year in Beijing where, En swept the WBC Super Lightweight International Champion title by a unanimous decision.

Ross was ready to take En on his home territory, with his fans loyally behind him.

There was only one problem and it was En’s visa. En was another Chinese fighter who last minute could not make it to the Las Vegas showdown.

Luckily Justin Greskiewicz (9-6) from Philadelphia took the fight last minute and stepped into the waters that Ross had been anticipating for six months. “I had really almost no notice for the fight. I found out that they needed me on Wednesday.
I had fought the Friday before, so I was still a little banged up,” Greskiewicz said, “but, it was a great opportunity and I really wanted to take it.”

It was clear that the Las Vegas superstar, Ross, had the favor of the fight and it only became more clear as round one and two came to an end. “In the first round I felt really good, but he caught me at the end of the round and I lost my legs. In the Second round I felt like I was wading in a kiddie pool. I just had nothing under me, I couldn't recover,” Greskiewicz said. The Las Vegas Hilton Showroom was feeding off of Ross’ energy, who represented his hometown as the champion that he is.

The unprepared Greskiewicz had good technique. But given Ross’ determination, Ross laid on the body shots and finished his opponent with TKO by a right-footed front kick to Greskiewicz’s eye with one minute and 49 seconds into the third round.

Ross received the WBC MuayThai US Welterweight Championship title on the night of his 28th birthday. “It’s the best birthday present I’ve ever had,” Ross said.

Malaipet of the Muay Thai Academy in North Hollywood
WBC MuayThai Super Welterweight International Championship
Richard Fenwick of Keddles Gym in England

This was the fight that fight-fans from all around the world have been anticipating since their last fight in February, earlier this year. The rematch between the Malaipet (137-27-5) and Richard Fenwick (28-8-1) was the fight of the night and possibly the year.

Both contenders started off strong and Fenwick definitely stepped it up for his title, but in the fourth round a few hard body shots to Malaipet, heated Fenwick’s opposite up, resulting in a fierce comeback by Malaipet. The gloves were off.

Malaipet started putting it on his opponent full force to have a few takedowns, leaving Fenwick tired and defending himself with any fuel he had left. With each kick and punch Malaipet threw Fenwick’s way, even the last row of the audience could see the smile on his face.

In February, the two battled it out and Fenwick took the title. One could call July 25 a different game completely, as Malaipet became the main event by dominating Fenwick and taking the WBC MuayThai Super Welterweight International Championship title away from his opponent in a unanimous decision victory.



Because of the unfortunate visa issue with the Chinese fighters scheduled to fight at the July 25 event, Dennis Warner is putting together another show also at the Hilton on August 30th. Kevin Ross will fight Kang En, Baxter - Xu Yan, Christine Toledo- Zheng Yenan and Shawn Yarborough will be fighting Xu Hou, who is the current WBC China's national light heavyweight champion.