US Grappling is pleased to announce our next Referee’s Certification Clinic on Sunday, February 6th, 2010 at Yamasaki Training Center in Mechanicsville, VA (Richmond area). The clinic will run from 10 AM until 4 PM!

Yamasaki Training Center
8161 Mechanicsville Turnpike – Suite F
Mechanicsville, VA, 23111

Anyone can observe the class, but we are limiting the number of actual referee candidates. To be considered, you must hold at least a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and must be recommended by another referee, coach, or instructor. You must also have competition experience.

The Referee’s Certification Clinic will cover common issues faced by referees and the proper way to handle such situations, proper scoring, “owning” your mat, protecting competitors, and many more topics. Before the day is through, all candidates will ref live matches, and will be critiqued on their performance. In order to learn to be a ref, one must actually do some reffing!

To register for the course e-mail reffing @ usgrappling.us.

Note: there is no cost for this.

Myron Gerber and Iron Cage Clash held its’ last promotion before the sanctioning of amateur mixed martial arts this past Saturday, October 23, 2010.  The event was held at the Hamilton County Fair Grounds in Noblesville, Indiana, and featured thirteen bouts.  With this promotion, Gerber was able to pay homage and raise money for a family whom had suffered a recent loss.

Jonathon Neville vs. Luis Guerra

Both Neville and Guerra waste little time to engage.  Guerra was able to land a big jab that momentarily stunned Neville.  He was then able to clinch and slam Neville to the mat.  Once on the ground, Guerra moved to full mount and worked to posture-up (to ground and pound).  Guerra was eventually successful and utilized his ground and pound to earn the technical knockout victory.

Adam Frausto vs. Chris Hoel

Hoel first initiates contact with the clinch and slam.  After slamming Frausto to the mat, Hoel worked to take Frausto’s back.  Hoel was eventually able to take Frausto’s back and cinch in the rear-naked choke earning the victory with two seconds left in round one.

Wyatt Toller vs. James Gregory

Toller opened working his jab to test the range of Gregory.  Toller attempts a takedown but is stuffed.  He eventually works Gregory to the ground, but Gregory stands back up.  When the two stand back up, Toller maintains his grip and take Gregory down.  Gregory turtles while Toller rains shots from his back.  Toller then attempts a rear-naked choke, but Toller is able to escape.  Though Gregory escapes the submission attempt, Toller maintains his back position.  Gregory is finally able to work Toller off of his back by standing and throwing Toller.  The two then square off and exchange punches.  Toller then shoots and pins Gregory against the cage.  Gregory is able to apply a guillotine choke, but it is unsuccessful.

Round two begins with Toller faking an overhand right and shooting.  Toller is able to move completely to Gregory’s back and make a sacrifice throw.  While on the mat, Toller applies a rear-naked choke that forces Gregory to tap.

Anthony Hill vs. Michael Dzelme

Hill opened the bout with a superman punch, but slipped in his attempt.  Dzelme was able to capitalize on the Hill mistake and cinch in a guillotine.  Despite Dzelme’s best efforts, Hill’s resiliency became the victor as he was able to escape the submission attempt and bring the fight back to the feet.  Hill was then able to land multiple uppercuts that dropped Dzelme to the mat.  Once Dzelme hit the mat, Hill landed one more strike that forced the referee to call a halt to the bout.

Tyler Akers vs. Stuart Gordon (Submission of the Night)

Akers comes out throwing a looping leg kick and moved right into the clinch.  From the clinch, Akers took Gordon to the mat and forced him up against the cage.  Gordon was able to sweep Akers, but Akers returned the favor.  After a five minute break, due to an inadvertent groin shot, Akers clinched with Gordon once again.  This time Gordon got the better of the clinch and took Akers to the ground.  Akers was able to pull guard, but only momentarily as Gordon moved into full mount.  From full mount, Gordon was swept as the first round expired.

Round two began with Gordon throwing a classic one, two combination that forces Akers to clinch.  Akers was able to then take the Gordon to the ground and utilize his ground and pound.  Gordon was able to withstand Akers’ ground and pound and cinch in a triangle choke.  The triangle forced Akers to submit giving Gordon the victory.

James Lowery vs. Ward Fitzpatrick

Lowery opens the fight with a thunderous jab that causes Fitzpatrick to shoot in for a double leg takedown.  Lowery was able to land with Fitzpatrick in his guard, thus allowing him to work for submissions.  Despite Lowery’s best efforts, Fitzpatrick noticed a hole as soon as Lowery sat up for a submission attempt and was able to apply a guillotine choke.  The guillotine proved to be inescapable and forced Lowery to tap, giving Fitzpatrick the submission victory.

Dan Moore vs. Josh Beals

Moore begins the fight with a straight right that left an opening for a textbook double leg takedown for Beals.  Moore, however, was able to land with Beals in his guard.  From his guard, Moore was able to work for an armbar that looked as if it was going to finish the match, but looks can be deceiving.  Beals was able to power out of the armbar and move into side-mount.  From side-mount, Beals (listening to instruction from his corner) was able to apply a key-lock submission and earn the victory.

Kyle Pettis vs. Aaron Toller

Pettis commences the fight with a front kick.  Toller followed with a one, two combination.  Pettis then threw two knees, but was forced to the ground.  With Toller in his guard, Pettis attempts an arm triangle choke.  Toller was able to escape the choke and work his ground and pound until the round expired.

Round two began with Pettis throwing four unanswered leg kicks.  Pettis then moved in to clinch with Toller, but saw a better opening in a standing guillotine.  After the application of the standing guillotine, Pettis pulled guard (with the guillotine still in place).  This moved forced Toller to submit and gave Pettis the victory.

Dustin Garner vs. Martin Sandage

Sandage starts the bout with a front kick to test Garner’s range.  Sandage then attempted another front kick as Garner charged, but missed.  Sandage was, though, able to apply a guillotine choke.  Garner was able to temporarily escape the choke, but then fell right back into it, thus giving Sandage the submission victory.

Brandon Lawson vs. Tyler Adams

Adams game plan is apparent as he wastes little time hitting a single leg takedown.  Unfortunately, Lawson proved got the better position on the landing and was able to take Adams’ back.  From Adams’ back, Lawson cinched in a rear-naked choke that forced Adams to tap forty seconds into the first round.

Kevin Groff vs. James Mogollon (Lightweight Title Fight)

Mogollon proved to be on a mission as he was able to cut Groff’s angles off early and land multiple shots.  Groff attempted a clinch, but was slammed by Mogollon.  Mogollon utilized his ground and pound momentarily, but then allowed Groff to stand back up.  Groff attempted a kick, but the attempt was caught by Mogollon.  While holding onto Groff’s leg Mogollon land a straight right that dropped Groff to the canvas.  Once Groff hit the mat, Mogollon pounced and showed no mercy with his strikes.  This forced Groff to tap, giving Mogollon the victory and the lightweight title.

Robert Godsby vs. Eddie Critser

Godsby opens the bout throwing a front kick.  He followed the front kick with a takedown.  While being taken down, Critser was able to secure a guillotine choke.  Godsby was eventually able to escape the choke and work his ground and pound.  The first round expired with Godsby still working his ground and pound.

Round two began with Godsby working combinations, clinching Critser, and slamming him to the mat.  While on the ground, Godsby, despite Critser’s best efforts, was able to move to full mount and roll into an armbar.  The armbar gave Godsby his first victory inside the cage.

Matt Velch vs. Chris Boatwright

Velch began the night’s last bout bull rushing Boatwright and pinning him against the cage.  The bull rush left Velch vulnerable and Boatwright seized the opportunity.  Boatwright was able to cinch in a rear-naked choke that forced Velch to submit, thus giving Boatwright the victory.

With this card, Iron Cage Clash proved yet again why the promotion is known around the state as a premier event.  We at CageCraze.com look forward to future I.C.C. events in accordance with the sanctioning of amateur mixed martial arts.

Quick Results:

Louis Guerra defeated Jonathen Neville  via Referee Stoppage due to Strikes in 1:25 of the 1st Round

Chris Hoel defeated  Adam Fransto via Tapout due to Rear Naked Choke in 2:59 of the 1^st Round

WyattToller defeated  James Gregory via Tapout due to Rear Naked Choke in 1:24 of the 2^nd Round

Anthony Hill  defeated Michael Dzelme via Referee Stoppage due to Strikes in 1:35 of the 1^st Round

Stuart Gordon  defeated Tylor Aker via Tapout due to Triangle Choke in 1:26 of the 2^nd Round

Ward Fitzpatrick defeated James Lowery  via Tapout due to Guillotine Choke in 1:41 of the 1^st Round

Josh Beals defeated  Dan Moore via Tapout due to Keylock submission in 2:25 of the 1^st Round

Kyle Pettis defeated Aaron Toller via Tapout due to Guillotine Choke in 0:56 of the 2^nd Round

Martin Sandage defeated Dustin Garner via Tapout due to Guillotine Choke in 0:46 of the 1^st Round

Brandon Lawson defeated Tyler Adams via Tapout due to Rear Naked Choke in 0:40 of the 1^st Round

James Mogollon defeated Kevin Groff  via Tapout due to Strikes in 1:49 of the 1^st Round

Robert Godsby defeated Eddie Critser via Tapout due to Armbar  in 1:36 of the 2^nd Round

Chris Boatwright defeated  Matt Welch via Tapout due to Rear Naked Choke in 0:45 in the 1^st Round

Iron Cage Clash: Premier Challengers 2

Iron Cage Clash, in association with Premier Cage Fighting, is set to bring more exciting amateur mixed martial arts to Noblesville, Indiana October 23, 2010.  I.C.C.:  Premier Challengers II will showcase elite, amateur mixed martial artists from around the state, as well as grappling matches.  Each competitor will be competing for a Japanese Katana, and mixed martial artists will have an opportunity (pending on a win) to compete on the next Premier Cage Fighting card.  Participants on the PCF card will be featured on Comcast On-Demand as well as Hometown Sports Network.

I.C.C. is looking for top notch amateur fighters with aspirations of reaching the next level.  They also welcome fighters looking to make their debut.  If you are interested in participating in this or future events, please fill out the fighter registration form below.

Event Info:

Date: October 23, 2010

Location: Hamilton County Fairgrounds and Exhibition Center 2003 Pleasant St. Noblesville, IN   (Directions)

Time: Doors open at 5 P.M., while fights begin at approx. 7 P.M.

Ticket Info:

General Admission: $25

V.I.P.: $40

Cageside: $50

Fighter Registration

This year’s Fall Pendergrass Classic will be a No Gi tournament, reversing the schedule from previous years. The schedule was changed to bring it in line with the “seasons” created by the IBJJF Pan Am events.

Iron Cage Clash Presents “Premier Challengers”

Iron Cage Clash presents “Premier Challengers” was held at the Hamilton County 4H Fairgrounds in Noblesville, IN on Saturday July 24^th, 2010. This event included 19 amateur MMA bouts along with a women’s grappling match. Winners from this night’s action have the opportunity to fight on the next Premier Cage Fighting card, Total Warrior Challenge 7 which will be broadcast on Comcast on Demand. In a patriotic moment before the hard-hitting action began, all the fighters walked out following an American flag and lined the ring as the national anthem was sung. The fighters were all given a round of applause and the fight card was set to begin.

Fight one saw Jacob Sorrecs facing off against Anthony “Obamanator” Hill. The bout starts off with Hill landing a big leg kick on Sorrecs. They clinch and both fighters hit the mat, Sorrecs goes for a guillotine but Hill escapes and gets half guard before quickly gaining mount. Jacob reverses this position but as he does Hill goes for an armbar attempt which is unsuccessful, but he quickly turns it into a tight, finishing triangle choke. Anthony Hill wins via triangle choke 1:09 of round one.

Beals sinking in the winning armbar

The next fight was between Matthew Snyder and Josh Beals who was making his cage debut. Matt starts out with a leg kick as both fighters look tentative to commit on their feet. Beals misses with a kick and eats a few short punches. Beals gets an early takedown with Snyder going for a guillotine which Beals shakes off as he gets side control. Josh lands three big knees to the ribs of Snyder. One more big knee before he mounts Matt. He passes back into side control and goes for an arm triangle choke but can’t fully get into position for it and gives up the hold. Beals attempts a very quick armbar from the mounted position but Snyder peppers his ribs and stays calm as the bell ends the round. Round two begins with a couple of kicks from Matt followed by a big right hand which lands from Beals. Two more leg kicks from Matt before he eats a big punch which allows Beals to clinch and he gets a huge slam on Matt followed by a couple quick shots. He then gets the mount position but is met from several shots from Snyder on bottom. Beals attempts a kimura but is unsuccessful. Snyder escapes just before the bell but eats a big shot as the round comes to an end. They touch gloves to begin the 3^rd round. Matt lands a few shots before he is slammed very hard from Beals. He quickly gets into position and goes for the armbar and gets the tapout with 1:08 of round 3, bowing to the crowd after the victory. Beals looked extremely active and confident in his wrestling especially for someone making their cage debut, good fight from both.

Fight three saw Randy Fields vs. Martin “No Mercy” Sandage. Fields starts the fight out with a leg kick followed by several good shots. Martin quickly takes him down and begins to rain shots before sinking in a tight guillotine choke at 1:03 of round 1. Martin Sandage via guillotine 1:03 round 1.

The next bout was between “Kid Dynamite” Jake Nealy and the much taller Sean Silvers. The fight begins with a quick touch of gloves and a simultaneous takedown from Nealy.    With the crowd booing Nealy for the apparent “cheap shot” (as one crowd member shouted) Silvers gets back to his feet but eats a big knee to the face. The fight is brought back to the mat where Nealy sinks in a finishing arm triangle choke 1:00 into round 1 for the victory.

Fight five pitted Julian Carrillo against Jon Gardner. Julian throws a few quick leg kicks to start the round. Jon goes for a takedown followed by a guillotine choke but his shoulder pops out of socket. Julian Carrillo is declared the winner by tapout due to injury 0:25 into round 1.

The next bout saw Mike “Maniac” Gillman vs. Jeremy “All Day Long” Ducheteau. Mike misses with a huge right to begin the round. Both fighters go to the mat and Mike quickly goes for a guillotine but has the position reversed and Jeremy goes for the rear-naked choke. Mike throws shots from the bottom then reverses the position. Mike gets a huge slam on Ducheteau followed by vicious blows which end Jeremy’s night 1:07 of round 1 due from TKO from strikes.

Hampton setting up the rear naked choke

Fight 7 was a lightweight bout between Matt Dillon and Shawn “Half Breed Beast” Hamton. Matt lands a quick leg kick to begin the fight and eats a straight right from Shawn. Dillon is in the kneeling position trying to get back up while Shawn begins hit him with several unanswered shots. He works for the RNC as he continues to rain down shots. A great body triangle from Shawn allows him to keep the hold tight and eventually sink in the rear-naked choke 1:45 of round one. Shawn Hamton wins via RNC 1:45 into round one in an impressive performance.

The next bout saw Daniel Moore vs. Austin “Rain Man” Burke. Austin catches Daniel’s kick early on and slams him to the canvas. Both fighters lock up guillotines but neither have it deep enough to threaten, both are really just holding on for position. Burke gets the mount position and starts to rain down heavy body shots and head shots. Burke goes for an armbar attempt which is close but Moore pulls out only to fall into an even better triangle from Burke and is forced to tap 2:20 into round one. Burke looked impressive and confident in this bout especially on the ground.

Knock Out of the Night

The next fight was between Kyle Mccammack and Wade Fitzpatrick. Both fighters touch gloves and Kyle starts out with a huge right hand which lands flush buckling Wade and dropping him to the canvas. Kyle thinking the fight was over walks away momentarily but the ref motions to keep fighting. He quickly jumps on Wade and unleashes several more crushing shots overwhelming Wade and knocking him out. By far, this was the knockout of the night and also set a new Iron Cage Clash record for quickest knockout. Mccammack wins 0:07 into round 1 via brutal KO in his cage debut.

Women’s Grappling Match

Borges looks for the takedown

The next bout was a women’s grappling match between Katie Fry and Caylea Borges. Katie goes for a quick standing guillotine but Caylea reverses it. Once on the ground Katie again tries to secure the guillotine but Caylea remains calm and stacks Fry eventually gaining mount. Caylea finally gets out of the guillotine and gains full mount. Fry rolls giving Borges her back and Borges quickly attempts a rear naked choke, but the round ends before she succeeds. Katie begins the second round with another standing guillotine attempt and pulls guard with it. Caylea quickly gains full mount and almost simultaneously transitions to side mount. From there Caylea executes a von flue choke leaving Katie tapping out at 0:53 into the second round. The crowd was really pumped up during this female grappling bout, both fighters showcased solid ground skills during this contest.

Fight 11 saw Dustin Gardner vs. Ryan Garrity. Both fighters start with a back-and-forth clinch battle which turned into a position battle on the ground. Ryan finally gains dominant position and gets in Dustin’s guard as Gardner goes for the triangle choke but doesn’t secure it. Ryan hits Dustin with a good uppercut but eats a couple good knees once they clinch. Ryan falls into Dustin’s guard and rains down several punches before the bell rings. The fight is called and Garrity is declared the winner 3:00 into round one due to verbal submission as Dustin chooses not to continue the bout.

Submission of the Night

In the co-main event, experienced amateur Jason Richards took on undefeated fighter “Mo” James Mogollon in a lightweight contest. James starts the fight out with a front kick and avoids a combo from Richards. He gets the clinch and slams Richards with an incredibly powerful suplex. James goes for a rear-naked choke but Jason maintains good wrist control. James delivers some extremely vicious knees to the body of Richards. Once they get back to their feet, James hops on Richards back while he is standing and locks in a fantastic rear-naked choke ending the fight 1:20 into round one. Despite a few other very good submissions, this one took the cake as it was incredibly exciting and gets Submission of the Night.

The next fight was a light-heavyweight collision between Ariel Andrade and Josh “the Bulldog” Patterson. Ariel starts the fight off with a good body kick, and quickly gets his opponents back once they are on the ground. Ariel moving fast on his feet lands six or seven big shots while on Josh’s back. Ariel suplexes Josh and lands several more shots and the fight is called 1:33 into round one. I was very impressed with Ariel at this weight class, it seems like a good weight for him as compared with him at heavyweight.

Fight of the Night

Lee throwin the round opening leg kick

Next up was fight 14 between Henry Goonen and Josh Lee. Both are tentative to start the bout with Henry landing a leg kick early, followed with a good exchange with Josh getting the best of it. The fight goes to the ground with Josh in Henry’s guard. Lee throws some knees as Henry continues holding Henry with a tight body clinch from the bottom. Back and forth shots with no significant damage from either fighter. Lee controls the fight with short shots as the round ends. Round two begins with a leg kick from Lee followed by a few punches which miss from Goonen. Lee lands another good leg kick and dodges a huge right from Henry. Lee drops Goonen with a hard shot and begins to throw knees to the body. Lee gets back up and kicks at Goonen’s legs several times as Gonnen appears content to stay on the ground. The ref stands Goonen up and they resume action. After landing a few more shots to Goonen before getting the takedown, Lee pulls off a beautiful heel hook and forces Henry to tap 2:22 into round 2.

Another co-main event bout put 9-3 Kurtis Findley up against undefeated 6-0-1 James “the Juggernaut” Brown in a lightweight contest. Brown starts out with a spinning back kick that lands but is caught with a right that knocks Brown to the canvas. Findley throws punches wildly trying to finish Brown, however Brown is quick to his feet clinching Findley and steadily drives him across the cage.  As Brown pins Findley against the cage and attempts a take-down, the fight is stopped 0:46 into round one from referee stoppage due to a cut above Browns left eye.

The next fight ended quicker than the last as heavyweights Jeff “the Juggernaut” Szakacs and Ed Leflore took to the cage. Jeff throws a high kick that missed badly to begin the fight. Ed rushes in and pounds Jeff with shots to the body and head while he tries to get back to his feet but its too late and the fight is called 0:20 into round one TKO due to strikes.

Thomas Wheeler and Dusty “Lights Out” Hampton matched up in fight 17. Dusty starts out throwing a huge bomb and both get into a good back-and-forth exchange on the feet. Dusty is winging huge rights at Thomas as they both fall to the mat. Hampton goes for a guillotine but Thomas escapes and finishes quickly with a von flue choke 1:18 into round one.

Fight 18 saw Joe Lowe vs. Jerry Brooks in a slugfest. As the fight begins Lowe comes at Brooks with several wild shots and they clinch in the corner. Lowe pulls guard and quickly gets into the mounted position. He lands several shots most of which are blocked by Brooks. Both fighters get back to their feet and a wild exchange ensues with both fighters landing multiple shots without regard to technique as the crowd gets into it. Both men are just flat out brawling at this point. More wild punches land from both as the bell rings to end the round. Round two begins with a touch of gloves and acknowledgement from both fighters as this has been a slugfest. Brooks pulls guard and quickly sinks in a guillotine choke :23 into round 2 ending the brawl. Both fighters look exhausted but embrace each other in what was a good back-and-forth standup battle.

The next fight was between ATT fighter Daniel Sansone and Jerricho Helming. Daniel began the fight with a quick takedown and both fighters reverse positions several times. Daniel goes for the rear-naked choke but Jerricho gets out and both get back to their feet. Jerricho gets a takedown and tries to land shots but Daniel has good control from bottom. Daniel gets a takedown as the round ends, but has to verbally submit due to his left shoulder popping out of socket. Jerricho is declared the winner 3:00 of round one due to verbal submission in what promised to be a good fight.

The final bout of the evening saw Chris “the Cannibal” Hole vs. Justin Moorefield. Chris goes for a takedown and Justin immediately follows with a guillotine attempt. Both get back to their feet and throw a series of kicks with both men missing. Justin hits Hole with a solid left and moves in for another guillotine attempt. The round ends in a stalemate with Justin inside Chris’s guard but he does not want to come out for round 2 and the bout is called. Chris Hole wins via verbal submission 3:00 into round one.

I.C.C presents “Premier Challengers” showcased some talented individuals who are sure to make a name for themselves in future Premier Cage Fighting events. Iron Cage Clash’s next show will take place on October 23^rd, 2010. For more details on becoming a fighter, or if you are just wanting to train; call (765-621-4105) for more information on Iron Horse Martial Arts.

Quick Results:

Anthony Hill defeated Jacob Sorrecs in the 1^st Round via Tapout due to Triangle Choke

Josh Beals defeated Matthew Snyder in 1:08 of the 3^rd Round via  Tapout due to Armbar

Martin Sandage defeated Randy Fields in 1:03 of the 1^st Round via Tapout due to Guillotine Choke

Jake Nealy defeated Sean Silvers in 1:00 of the 1^st Round via Tapout due to Arm Triangle

Julian Carrilo defeated John Gardner in 0:25 of the 1^st Round via Tapout due to shoulder injury

Mike Gillman defeated Jeremy Duchetau in 1:07 of the 1^st Round via Referee Stoppage due to Strikes

Shawn Hampton defeated Matt Dillan  in 1:45 of the first Round via Tapout due to Rear Naked Choke

Austin Burke defeated Daniel Moore in 2:20 of the first Round via Tapout due to Triangle Choke

Kyle McCormack defeated Ward Fitzpatrick in 0:07 of the 1^st Round via KO

Caylea Borges defeated Katy Fry in 0:53 of the 2^nd Round via Tapout due to Von Flue Choke

Ryan Garrity defeated Justin Gardner in 0:00 of the 2^nd Round via Verbal Submission

James Mogollon defeated Jason Richards in 1:20 of the 1^st Round via Tapout due to Rear Naked Choke

Ariel Andrade defeated Josh Patterson in 1:33 of the 1^st Round via Tapout due to Strikes

Josh Lee defeated Henry Goonen in 2:22 of the 2^nd Round via Tapout due to Heel Hook

Kurtis Finley defeated James Brown in 0:46 of the 1^st Round via Referee Stoppage due to a cut

Edward Laflore defeated Jeff Szakacs in 0:20 of the 1^st Round via Referee Stoppage due to Strikes

Thomas Wheeler defeated Dustin Hampton in 1:18 of the 1^st Round via Tapout due to Von Flue Choke

Jerry Brooks defeated Joseph Lowe in 0:23 of the 2^nd Round via Tapout due to Guillotine Choke

Jerricho Hemley defeated Daniel Sansone in 0:00 of the 2^nd Round via Verbal Submission

Chris Hoel defeated Justin Morfield in 0:00 of the 2^nd Round via Verbal Submission

NOTE: If there are any misspellings in names, or any corrections that need to be made, please send them to admin@cagecraze.com

Legends of Fighting Championship’s “Bad Dudes”

Legends of Fighting Championship 40 “Bad Dudes” took place at 8 Seconds Saloon in Indianapolis; this event featured 7 amateur bouts and 5 pro bouts. On the card were fighters such as Daniel Pitzulo, Jeremy “Lighting” Bolt, Jeremy  Jackson, Daniel Blackburn,  135 lb champ Zach Jenkins, and Victor O’Donnell from season 11 of the Ultimate Fighter just to name a few.

The first matchup saw James “the Squirrel” Maher vs Joey Holloway. James gained early control with a few good shots from his feet. Once on the ground Maher sunk in a quick rear-naked choke at 1:03 of round one.

The next bout featured Kyle “the Hoodlum” Hood vs Craig Hardman. Craig quickly gained a takedown but was met with resistance as Kyle reversed the position. However, Craig maintained excellent control from the bottom and attempted an armbar but Kyle quickly escaped this attempt. The action was brought back up the feet with Craig landed a solid body kick followed by a punch combination bringing both fighters to the ground. Craig assumed dominant position as he locked up a fight ending guillotine choke/KO 2:00 into the first round.

Fight three was between Kevin “the Bulldog” Groff and “Big” Mike Littleton. Both fighters danced around the cage for a while before they finally engaged. Both threw heavy leather before getting clinched against the cage with Groff eventually ended up on top of Littleton. Kevin rained down some heavy shots from inside the guard before Mike locked up a nice, finishing triangle which forced Groff to tap 1:49 into round 1. Both fighters showed great sportsmanship for each other before and after the fight was concluded.

Sportsmanship of the Night

Parsley encouraging Harris after the fight

The fourth fight of the evening saw Jesse “the Gladiator” Parsley take on Nicholas Harris. Parsley started the bout out with a quick overhand right followed by a tie-up between the two fighters. Harris took Jesse down and began landing some good shots until Jesse exhibited great bottom control, clinching Harris up while he was mounted. Parsley reversed the position and went for the rear-naked choke but Harris eluded the submission and both recovered back to their feet. Once back on their feet Jesse secured a takedown and threw some vicious ground and pound, Harris tapped due to strikes 2:45 into round 1. After the fight was over, Parsley’s genuine encouragement  to Harris wins him Sportsmanship of the Night.

The next fight was host to ATT fighter Jeremy “Knuckles” Jackson vs Seth Farris-Steen. This fight began with an early takedown attempt from Seth that was stuffed initially but Seth eventually gained top control. Jackson was busy working from the guard and quickly locked up and secured a tight triangle choke causing Seth to tap 1:05 into round 1.

Fight of the Night

Croom landing a solid Overhand Right

The sixth matchup Mtrig Gibson vs Ed Croom for the 205lb amateur title no doubt was fight of the night. As the action began Croom goes for an early takedown and gets it but can’t hold position and both grapple against the cage battling for control. Once separated Mtrig lands a powerful combo that drops Croom to the canvas. Gibson goes in for the finish but Croom shows good composure as he reverses the position and claims half guard. The action is brought back up to the feet after a stalemate on the ground. Dirty boxing from both fighters against the cage with Croom trying to get the single leg takedown, which he gets successfully. From his back Mtrig goes for an armbar attempt but Croom recognizes it and pulls his arm out and takes Gibson’s back, riding this position as the bell sounds to end the first round.

Gibson attempts an Armbar

The second round begins with Mtrig quickly throwing a head kick which is blocked followed by a powerful punch that tags Croom. They grapple against the cage and Croom lands an unintentional knee to the groin which stops the action momentarily. Action resumes, Mtrig lands a leg quick but is taken down once again by Croom. Active off his back Mtrig goes for a kimura attempt which Croom powers out of. Croom starts to turn it on from top position and tags Mtrig with multiple shots, some of which are blocked. Mtrig rolls onto his stomach and Croom gets takes his back sinking in a rear-naked choke. Although the choke appears deep, Mtrig calmly motions to the ref with a thumbs up that he is okay. He gets out of the choke but again finds himself on his back taking shots from Croom as the horn sounds ending the round. Neither fighter appears to be severely hurt going back to their corners but both look worn out from the back-and-forth battle.

Both fighters touch gloves acknowledging that they are in a war to start the final round. Croom goes for an early takedown which is stuffed at first but he eventually gains side control out of the scramble. More ground and pound from Croom and Mtrig eventually taps out 1:07 of round 3. The official result of this fight was tapout due to carotid choke. Both fighters embrace each other after a fantastic fight, Croom’s team, American Top Team and fans are going nuts as he calmly walks around the ring after the win. Easily fight of the night, great heart shown by both fighters.

Refree Don Clift stopped the bout

The seventh and final amateur bout featured another ATT fighter, Daniel Blackburn vs Jordan McDaniel. The fight begins with a very quick exchange between the two which ends in a takedown for Jordan. Blackburn quickly reverses this position and ends up getting the mounted position on McDaniel. McDaniel tries to turn out of it but Blackburn takes his back and sinks in the hooks. Daniel makes short work from here and rains down several unanswered shots and the fight is stopped 1:12 into round 1 via TKO due to strikes. McDaniel ‘s was laid out on the mat for several minutes after the stoppage but eventually got back to his feet and appeared to be okay, as Blackburn checked to ensure he was fine. Daniel Blackburn has some serious power for the 145lb weight class and is a definite force in this division moving his record to 6-0 after this impressive victory.

The first professional bout of the evening was between Marc “Pitbull” Bennett and Joe Neace who made his pro debut. Both fighters clinch up early and Marc goes for a standing guillotine attempt but Neace gets out only to be slammed to the mat with a great takedown. Neace is busy from his back and goes for an armbar attempt but Marc postures up and gets his arm free and retains half guard. Marc stands back up and Neace locks onto a solid kneebar with Bennett standing. Marc finally gets out with some vicious ground and pound knocking Neace out cold and waking him back up with a few more shots. The fight ends 1:41 of the first round due to strikes.

The next bout featured Mark Neville vs Daniel “PureBred” Pitzulo. Both fighters circle the ring cautiously waiting for the other fighter to make his move. As they engage Pitzulo gets the takedown secured. Neville shows good control on the bottom and his hips are very active. Daniel gets into side control on Neville, from this position he hops his leg over for the mount. From here he takes Neville’s back and sinks in a tight rear-naked choke and Mark is forced to tap. The fight ends due to rear-naked choke 2:07 into the first round. Both fighters embrace each other after the battle, two classy individuals right there.

Bolt checking Clarks kick & looks for an opening

The next pro fight was a rematch between Chris “Fireman” Clark and cage veteran Jeremy “Lighting” Bolt. Chris replaced George O’Dell in this fight on less than a day’s notice, props to him for stepping up. Both men touch gloves and Clark looks very spry on his feet as he circles around the ring trying to stay away from the power of Bolt. Clark lands a solid right leg kick and backs out and begins to circle again. Bolt appears to want to get inside on Clark but Chris is moving around well. Clark lands two more solid leg kicks on Bolt to open up the round. Jeremy finally gets his takedown and moves into side mount. Good ground battle as Bolt looks to get Chris’ back and finally does. He begins to throw some leather from the back of Clark and the fight is stopped due to strikes 3:13 of round 1.

Jenkins swings for the fences

The next pro bout feature Mark Neville’s brother Bryan Neville vs newly crowned 135lb LFC champion Zach “The Shadow” Jenkins with this fight being a non-title fight in the 155 lb division. Zach looks amped up and comes out in a fury right at Neville. Both fighters throw furious hands with Zach getting the better of the exchange. Zach knocks Neville down with strikes and unleashes some bombs and the fight is over quickly. The fight ends via tko :19 into round 1. Zach told CageCraze after the fight that he was told he was suspended indefinitely for tossing his mouthpiece. We will stay informed to any further implications from this as many fans are anxious to see “the Shadow” defend his belt soon at LFC.

The Main Event  Ron Carter vs Victor O’Donnell

The main event featured local pro Ron “the Savage” Carter vs The Ultimate Fighter season 11 contestant Victor O’Donnell. Both fighters touch gloves and they are looking to exchange with neither fighter committing at first. Lots of fakes thrown from Carter as he tries and gauge his range on the much shorter O’Donnell. O’Donnell buckles Carter with a right hand that sends him into the cage. Carter unintentionally knees O’Donnell in the groin and the action is briefly stopped. As the action resumes Victor lands another big right but Carter shrugs it off. Victor moves in for the takedown and quickly takes Carter’s back sinking in a rear-naked choke. The fight ends via rear-naked choke 1:58 into round 1. Both fighters acknowledge each other after the fight in a great show of class from both individuals.

The night saw a good night of fights with a large and excitable crowd. Legends of Fighting keeps getting big names into their shows thanks to matchmaker Dustin Howell. Legends of Fighting 41 is scheduled to take place at 8 Seconds Saloon on September 10^th, come check out some great MMA action. LFC vet Sean McCorkle was interviewed regarding his upcoming fight at UFC 119 in Indianapolis. LFC is making a trend out of being a springboard  for fighters to get into the big shows such as Strikeforce, UFC, and BEllator just to name a few.

Quick Results:

Amateur Bouts:

James Maher defeated Joey Holloway in 1:03 of the 1^st Round via Tapout due to Rear Naked Choke

Craig Hardman defeated Kyle Hood in 2:00 of the 1^st Round via Guillotine Choke / KO

Michael Littleton defeated Kevin Groff in 1:49 of the 1^st Round via Tapout due to Triangle Choke

Jesse Parsley defeated Nicholas Harris in 2:45 of the 1^st Round via Tapout due to strikes

Jermey Jackson defeated Seth Farris-Steen in 1:05 of the 1^st Round via Triangle Choke

Ed Croom defeated Mtrig Gibson 1:07 of the 3^rd Round via Tapout due to Corroded Choke

Daniel Blackburn defeated Jordan McDaniel in 1:12 of the 1^st Round via Tapout due to Strikes

Professional Bouts:

(correction) Marc Bennett defeated Joe Neace  in 1:41 of the 1st Round via Tapout Due to Strikes

Daniel Pitzulo defeated Mark Neville in 2:07 of the 1st Round via Tapout due to Rear Naked Choke

Jeremy Bolt defeated Chris Clark in 3:13 of the 1st Round via Tapout due to strikes

Zach Jenkins defeated Bryan Neville in 0:19 of the 1st Round via Tapout due to strikes

Zach was suspended indefinitely for  unsportsmanlike conduct (Throwing his mouthpiece in the crowd)

Main Event:

Victor O’Donnell defeated Ron Carter in 1:58 of the 1st Round via Tapout due to Rear Naked Choke

If I can look back with no regrets and know in my heart that I gave it my all, and I didn’t screw anyone over in the process, I will smile and know I did my part. – Dennis Cole

Involved in MMA since 2008, promoter Dennis Cole was first introduced to the promoting side of the sport as he became his younger brother’s fight manager. Being fully immersed in his brother’s fighting career allowed him to learn from and network with other fighters, promoters, and managers. The transition was a welcome one for Dennis a longtime MMA enthusiast. Having previously worked with an MMA company and having a background in newspaper editing and concert promoting, Dennis became the owner of 618 MMA, a southern Illinois MMA promotion. So far, Dennis manages 3 fighters that he has sent to Matt Hughes’ Hit Squad to advance their training and to further their careers. Also, he has 4 title holders along with featured fighters from Illinois, Kentucky, Alabama, Tennessee, Missouri, and Canada on his fight cards.

His goal as a promoter is to put on great fights for both the fans and fighters and he loves the connections and relationships that come about with being a promoter. His intentions in this sport aren’t to just put on fights and make money from ticket sales; he feels relationship building is the best way to build a great promotion.

Entering the world of MMA promotion for Dennis was less for his own self-gratification but rather to gain more fans and exposure to the sport he loves. It’s this kind of selflessness that has lead him to promote and inspire others using MMA as a platform to do so. Since his involvement  with MMA, Dennis has seen his fare share of MMA promoters that aren’t loyal to their fighters, and makes it his goal to treat everyone involved fairly and to give the best show possible. He was recently approved to hold an event on state supported property at the Expo Center at Du Quoin State Fairgrounds in Du Quoin, Illinois.

618 MMA Presents: Midwest Pride scheduled to take place on July 24th, 2010 at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds Expo Center. Doors for the event will open at 5 p.m. with the fights starting at 7 p.m. For more information on this event or for ticket information call 618-579-4273.

If you would like to connect with Dennis and stay informed about upcoming MMA events,, please check out his CageCraze.com profile: 618 MMA

CageCraze.com is your MMA Social Network dedicated to connecting, promoting, covering and improving local MMA everywhere. Create your free profile today, and stay connected with local MMA Everywhere!

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Babes & Brawls returned for their 3rd show with a packed house at the Atlantis Gentlemen’s Club in Ford Heights, IL. The show started off with one of the best openings I have ever seen for an amateur show with the mixture of lighting, video and dancers it was very impressive.
Starting off the action 155 lbs: Brian Gomez def Angel Cervantes by TKO 1:52 Round 2.
125lbs Danielle Hobeika def Crystal Hilderman, Submission (Arm Triangle Choke) :32 Round 1

Sportsmanship of the Night

All women fighters need to watch out as Danielle Hobeika is ready to fight. Highly profiled wrestler and grappler Hobeika easily def Crystal Hilderman by Submission (Arm Triangle Choke) at .32 Round 1. Danielle wins CageCraze.com’s Sportsmanship award with her praise for her opponent and her attitude.

190lbs Billy Carrol def Jesse Burkshire, KO 1:13 Round 1
135lbs Matreal Woodfork def Dustin Curry, Submission (Rear naked choke) :24 Round 1

Knockout of the Night

At 155 lbs: Mike Cantrell def Willie Buckler, KO 2:30 Round 1.
This was a stand-up back and forth ward until Cantrell finished Buckler and Cantrell winning CageCraze.com’s Knockout of the night award.

150lbs Alan Hile def Rueben Mendez, Submission (Guillotine Choke) 1:30 Round 1
135lbs Robbie Sandoval def Jaret Griggs, Submission (Arm Triangle Choke) :28 Round 1
155lbs Otis Bloomfield def Anthony Milton, Submission (Guillotine Choke) 1:30 Round 1
At 180lbs Glenn Evans def Johnie Gill, TKO 2:59 Round 2.

Comeback of the Night

This fight was a back and forth war for the entire 2 rounds with Gill getting the best of Evans until the 2nd Rd in which Evans turned it around and pulled off the win and gets CageCraze.com’s comeback of the night award.

For the 135lb Title Fighy Manny Camacho def Jay Herrera, TKO 3:00 Round 1.
Manny and Jay traded early as Jay got inside he clinched Manny and worked for a Guillotine. Manny stayed calm and defended the Guillotine most the round until he reversed it and then escaping with a few seconds left, Manny then opened his hands up until the round ended.

Submission of the Night

155 lb Title Fight: Lance Surma def Jacob Brewick, Submission (Armbar) 2:19 Round 1. Lance receives CageCraze.com’s Submission of the night award with a very nice Armbar.
The main event put Brain Booth against Andrew West for the 185 lb Title Fight. Brian Booth finished the fight quickly as he TKO Andrew West at 1:33 Round 1.
Congratulations to Jeff Neal as he was awarded Coach of the Decade by Babes and Brawls and wish you continued success as one of the best coaches in the Midwest!