Click here to view the embedded video.

One of the more exciting Canadian fighters not signed by one of the big promotions, Ryan “The Real Deal” Ford talks about making his return to the Maximum Fighting Championship after his upcoming The Fight Club welterweight title bout was canceled.

HT: MMACanada.net

Click here to view the embedded video.

Press Release

In a move that an overwhelming majority in the mixed martial arts world believed would never happen, Canadian welterweight sensation Ryan “The Real Deal” Ford has signed a new multi-fight contract with the Maximum Fighting Championship.

A former two-time challenger for the MFC’s 170-pound title, Ford and the MFC bitterly parted ways in early 2009 and the acrimonious split resulted in a rift that most insiders considered impossible to repair. But out of nowhere, there has been a mending of fences and Ford (12-2) is back in the MFC looking to rejuvenate a career that had dramatically stalled in his year-long absence from the organization.

“It’s unfortunate and a shame what happened the first time around, but I think everyone has grown since then,” offered MFC Owner/President Mark Pavelich. “This time around I hope that Ryan reaches the goals he set for himself — the goals he started with in the MFC right from the beginning.

“I hope that he lives up to his abilities that we all know he has. He’s going to be fighting top-notch talent so we will certainly see what he truly has.”

Now fighting out of the ZUMA training centre in Victoria, British Columbia, Ford is expected to make his return to the ring at MFC 26 on Friday, September 10. An official announcement on the host city and lineup for that card is forthcoming.

“I think this is very exciting for the fans,” said Adam Zugec, Ford’s trainer at ZUMA. “There’s been a lot of drama … just like a reality show, and I think the fans really love that.

“I’m expecting great things from Ryan. He’s made to be on TV, his persona is perfect for the MFC’s shows on HDNet, and Mark and the MFC is so good at marketing its fighters on television.

“I always knew that eventually both parties would be back working together. Both sides needed some time to clear their heads and start a new plan. As everyone started to mature they’ve become more willing to work with each other and that’s good for both sides.”

Ford made his MFC and professional mixed martial arts debut back in August 2007, instantly becoming a fan favorite as he rattled off six straight wins including three inside the opening round. His biggest victory in that initial phase of his career came via a second-round submission of veteran Pete Spratt — an outcome that while marred by strikes coming after the bell to end Round 1 also drew Ford favorable comparisons to Georges St. Pierre at the same time of their respective careers.

Following his sixth win, Ford earned a shot at the vacant MFC welterweight title, and although he dominated much of the fight with his takedowns, the Edmonton, Alberta, native was caught in an armbar and forced to tap out to veteran Pat Healy midway through the third round. Two victories followed for Ford which garnered him a rematch with Healy but the reigning champ held onto his belt with a tight five-round, split-decision outcome in his favor.

Unable to agree on the terms of a new contract, Ford and the MFC parted ways soon after the Healy rematch. But at long last, Ford has returned to where his blossoming career began.

“I think the best thing to happen to Ryan was to go to a smaller organization, get some experience and work on some things, and now return to the big show,” added Pavelich, who expects to quickly have a list of opponents lined up to face Ford.

“Ryan is eager to fight anybody,” noted Zugec. “Everybody knows that Ryan is a fighter at heart and he wants to test his talents against the best fighters at 170.”

We caught up with up and coming Canadian MMA superstar Ryan “The Real Deal” Ford, as he prepares to defend his TFC welterweight belt against verteran Carlo Prater.

Terry (TheMMANews): “Ryan you’re riding a four fight winning streak heading into your upcoming fight on July 17 against Carlo Prater. How is your training going, have you made any adjustments?”

Ryan Ford: “Training is going good; I’m going back to Victoria in the morning. I just came back from the MMA expo in Toronto and I got 5 weeks until fight night. I have been trying to get better at every skill and get ready to go.”

Terry (TheMMANews): “How many fights do you have left on your contract with The Fight Club, and is there any chance of seeing you in the Octagon in the near future?”

Ryan Ford: “I got one fight left with the fight club, which is the next fight here to defend the title. After that, the octagon, whenever they come calling I’ll be ready I’m just going to keep knocking people out and choking people out and we’ll see what happens.

Terry (TheMMANews): “Who do you consider to be fighters that you would like to face in the coming year, regardless of which company promotes them, and why?”

Ryan Ford: “ I just want to fight whoever says they’re the best then I want to fight them, if they’re doing it, well I’m doing it too so let’s do it. I been doing this for 3 years so I’m climbing the latter and I’m prepared to do my thing.”

Terry (TheMMANews): “What’s a typical day of training, and do you maintain your weight throughout the process or do you have a large weight cut?”

Ryan Ford: “I usually start an 8 week training camp, the first couple weeks help to get back into rhythm. I start around 200 pounds 8 weeks out, and right now I’m 5 weeks out and I am sitting about 190 pounds and very strong. I’m just doing the same things I always do and working hard in the gym. I split up my boxing, wrestling, jui juitsu and strength and conditioning into different days.”

Terry (TheMMANews): “There are critics out there that say you are one of the most gifted natural athletes in MMA but that you need to focus on putting the effort in to mastering “technique”. How do you respond to those critics?”

Ryan Ford: “The critiques are right, I am one of the most gifted athletes out there, but what they don’t know is that I am getting more technique and skills with everything to do with MMA. I’m not focusing on one specific thing but trying to better myself in all areas, and my game is getting better and better every time I’m in the gym.”

Terry (TheMMANews): “Are you still going to various schools and sharing your life experiences as a way to help kids maintain their lives on the “right track?” Tell us a little about what this means to you.”

Ryan Ford: “I have traveled to quite a few different places to speak to schools. I have spoken at a bunch of the junior highs and high schools in Edmonton, where I’m from. I just want to give back to some kids that might be gearing off in the wrong direction and with my experience maybe steer them back in the right track. I let them know that seeing people with nice vehicles and money isn’t about hanging around with gangs and selling drugs. Just to hang around with positive people because that will help your life get positive.”

Terry (TheMMANews): “Is there one aspect of mixed martial arts that appeals to you more than any other? “

Ryan Ford: “ I like the challenge, I like taking on the challenge and training and waiting for somebody to take on the contract and take on the challenge because they think that they can beat you and I just love fighting and this is what I do for a living now.”

Terry (TheMMANews): “Give us a few things you like to do during your downtime away from fighting.”

Ryan Ford: “I like to chill out with the family; I got a beautiful wife and a beautiful daughter that turns 2 in September. I like to go to the parks and hang out with my friends, and play Playstation 3—I’m a gamer!”

Terry (TheMMANews): “Anything you want to say to the fans that support you?”

Ryan Ford: “I just want to thank all the fans that support me, and if you don’t know me go to my website www.ryantherealdealford.com and check me out on YouTube. And I want to give a shout out to all the haters, out there because them hating just makes me get better—I love it.”

Press Release

Edmonton, Alberta (Canada): The Fight Club (TFC), one of the fastest-growing fight promotions in Canada, had secured a main event of TFC World Welterweight Champion Ryan “The Real Deal” Ford defending his belt against the man considered to be the number one 170 lb. fighter in Hawaii, UFC veteran Brandon Wolff. The fight was to take place at TFC’s next event, “TFC 11: DESTINY” on Saturday, July 17th, live at the Shaw Conference Centre in Edmonton, Alberta.

Unfortunately, Wolff sustained injuries in defense of his X-1 welterweight title this past weekend, and had to pull out of his bout with Ford. Stepping in to contest the title will be two-time WEC veteran Carlo Prater.

Tickets are available through http://www.thefightclub.ca/, or (780) 991-5670.

“DESTINY” will be shown on pay-per-view across Canada on Shaw, Shaw Direct, Bell TV, and Viewers Choice, offering virtually all Canadians the opportunity to purchase and watch the show live. The event will also be broadcasted at many commercial establishments, bars, pubs, lounges, and casinos across Canada. In addition, through a distribution agreement with Ringside Boxing & MMA, the event will be televised to a potential worldwide audience of over 150 million viewers (on a delayed basis). News on a press conference will be announced soon.

Ryan “The Real Deal” Ford (12-2) is viewed by many to be the next great Canadian welterweight after UFC 170-pound kingpin Georges St-Pierre. A native of Edmonton, “The Real Deal” won the TFC welterweight title on December 5th of last year when he knocked out California native John Walsh (10-5) in just thirteen seconds at “TFC 9: TOTAL CHOAS.” Ford holds victories over UFC vets Pete Spratt, CJ Fernandes, and Tommy Speer, who he defeated via first round submission at the most recent TFC event, “TFC 10: HIGH OCTANE” on March 19th. Ford is currently riding a four-fight win streak. In regards to the change in opponent, Ford is unfazed. “It doesn’t change my approach to the fight. I’m ready for anyone. I’m a fighter, and that’s what I do. Carlo is a good fighter, he’s a tough guy, so I think it’s going to be a test for me, and hopefully I come out on top.” And that’s exactly what he plans to do. “You never know. I can say something, but as soon as that bell rings, it all changes. I’m looking to win, and that’s my prediction.”

Carlo Prater (24-7-1) is a well-respected veteran who has faced and defeated many top MMA fighters in the sport today. A native of Sao Paulo, Brazil, Prater is a very dangerous combatant who has a lot of tools to finish any opponent. In 2008 he challenged WEC Welterweight Champion Carlos Condit for the belt. The result was a loss, but afterwards, Prater dropped to the 155-pound class and won the Palace Fighting Championships lightweight belt. Now, he’ll step back into the familiar territory of the welterweight ranks and face Ryan Ford for the TFC 170-lb. strap. During his eight-year career, Prater has faced well-known competitors such as Drew Fickett, Derrick Noble, Condit, Brock Larson, and Antonio McKee, and holds victories over Melvin Guillard, Spencer “The King” Fisher, Condit (they have defeated each other once), and Pat Healy.

In addition to Prater, TFC has added several other fights to “DESTINY,” including:

- Mitch Clarke (6-0) vs. Curtis “The Demon” Demarce (8-7) – for the TFC Canadian Lightweight Title – A five-fight win streak has earned “The Demon” a title shot against the undefeated Mitch Clarke. Clarke, who is moving down from welterweight, will make his debut at 155 lbs.

- Ryan “The Kid” McGillivray (9-4-1) vs. Andrew Buckland (11-6-1) – 170 lbs. – Edmonton’s Ryan McGillivray makes his return to the TFC cage in a much-anticipated rematch with Calgary’s Andrew Buckland. The two fought to a draw April 23, 2010 in a three-round war that saw a 2nd round point deduction for an illegal blow by Buckland cost him a victory.

- Rio Wells (3-0) vs. Jason Zorthian (3-3) 170 lbs. – Ex-CFL football star Rio Wells puts his undefeated MMA record on the line against a very tough Jason Zorthian.

- Jorge Ravanal, Jr. (2-1) vs. Dave Hale (0-0) – 160 lbs

- Chuck Pelc (2-1) vs. Joel Powell (2-2) – 170 lbs.

The Fight Club is also pleased to announce the addition of Ron “The Yacman” Yacovetti, who will now handle play-by-play commentary cageside for “TFC 11: DESTINY.” “The Yacman,” who is the face of the MMA social networking website FightLaunch.com, has done fight commentary for several other organizations, including the Korean MMA promotion Spirit MC (Spirit Martial Challenge), and the Florida-based Art of Fighting promotion. In addition, Ron co-hosts a weekly Web TV series entitled “The Yac & J Show,” a comedic news magazine style show.

Look for the additional fights to be announced in the coming weeks. For more information, please visit our website at http://www.thefightclub.ca/

EVERETT, Wash. (June 10, 2010) –Undefeated heavyweight prospect Shane Del Rosario (9-0) will attempt to extend his unblemished streak when he faces fellow heavy hitter Lolohea Mahe (4-1-1) in the main event of a STRIKEFORCE Challengers Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fight card at Comcast Arena at Everett, live on SHOWTIME® at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast), on Friday, July 23.

Unbeaten STRIKEFORCE Women’s World Welterweight (135 pounds) Champion and former ballet dancer Sarah Kaufman (11-0) will put her perfect record as well as her crown on the line against international star Roxanne Modafferi (15-5).

In other featured action, Abongo Humphrey (7-1) will take on Mike “Mak” Kyle (16-7-1) at light heavyweight (205 pounds).

A special pre-sale ticket purchase opportunity for the STRIKEFORCE Challengers event will take place for “STRIKEFORCE Insider” e-newsletter subscribers (http://STRIKEFORCE.com/insider.html), beginning at 10 a.m. PT Tomorrow/Friday, June 11, until 10 p.m. PT on Sunday, June 13. STRIKEFORCE Insiders will receive a special e-newsletter with the pre-sale code.

Tickets for the event go on sale to the general public at 10 a.m. PT on Monday, June 14 and can be purchased at the Comcast Arena box office (866-332-8499) as well as online at ComcastArenaEverett.com and STRIKEFORCE’s official website (www.strikeforce.com).

Del Rosario, of Irvine, Calif., hasn’t come close to losing since turning pro in August 2006. He has yet to go the distance; in fact, only one of his fights has gone past the first round.

In his last start, Del Rosario, who’ll be making his fifth appearance on SHOWTIME, submitted (omoplata) Brandon Cash at 2:57 of the first round on a STRIKEFORCE Challengers event on Nov. 6, 2009. Seven of his previous eight victories came via knockout.

Besides power, the 6-foot-4, 27-year-old Del Rosario possesses excellent movement and quickness. A graduate of UC Irvine with a degree in Psychology, Del Rosario played basketball in high school. He also is an active professional Muay Thai fighter and is 6-1 (six knockouts).

Mahe will be trying to regain his winning ways after suffering the first defeat of his career in his last start to Lavar Johnson during a STRIKEFORCE Challengers event last March 26.

An American Samoan who resides and fights out of Kahului Maui, Hawaii, the heavy-handed 6-foot-4, 28-year-old Mahe had his fair share of pavement punchouts before turning to MAA in November 2007.Outside the cage, the married father of three children is very active in the Church. Every Saturday he and his family clean the local church (Ala Lani United Methodist Church).

Kaufman, of Victoria, British Canada, captured the first-ever STRIKEFORCE Women’s 135-pound Championship in her last start with a unanimous five-round decision over Takayo Hashi in the main event of a STRIKEFORCE Challengers card last Feb. 26.
In her outing before last on June 19, 2009, on SHOWTIME, the 5-feet-5, 24-year-old Kaufman outpointed Shayna Baszler in the historic first five-minute, three-round women’s fight.

Regarded as perhaps the most powerful, pure puncher in women’s MMA, Kaufman is an avid ballet, jazz and hip hop dancer who only discovered the sport after a martial arts gym opened underneath her dance studio when she was 17. She attended the University of Victoria for two years with the goal of becoming a cardiovascular surgeon before focusing her efforts on MMA.
A pro since 2006, Kaufman knocked out her first eight opponents before earning a hard-fought decision over Miesha Tate during the first-ever STRIKEFORCE Challengers event on May 15, 2009, on SHOWTIME..

Modafferi, of Wilmington, Del., is coming off the biggest victory of her career, a three-round decision over highly regarded Tara LaRosa last May 21. The 5-foot-7, 27-year-old Modafferi has won eight of her last nine starts. The loss came in her STRIKEFORCE debut against Marloes Coenen on the undercard of “Fedor vs. Rogers’’ on Nov. 7, 2009.

One of the most unique and eclectic fighters in MMA, Modafferi cannot only be defined by fighting alone. A long-time admirer of Japanese culture, she graduated from the University of Massachusetts in 2005 with a major in Japanese Language and Literature and a minor in Linguistics. Her pro debut on Nov. 10, 2003, came in Japan during her junior year of college.

Soon after graduating college, Modafferi moved to Japan on a permanent basis after securing a full-time teaching position in which she taught English. Her earliest MMA victories came in Japan. But the lack of comparable competition made it virtually impossible for the terrific grappler to get fights, so she moved back to the United States.

Regarding her style, Modafferi says, “I put a lot of value in perfection, which is why I generally like grappling more than striking. I think it takes the perfect pressure, the perfect control, to pull off a beautiful submission hold. You take an armbar to the point of breaking, until the opponent gives up, and you let them go, unharmed. I think it’s smooth, beautiful and masterful. I don’t really want to break somebody’s face and make them bleed — just make them give up.”

Humphrey, a military son who was born on a base in Vacaville, Calif., and resides in Atlanta, Ga., scored a submission over George Bush (guillotine choke) at 1:44 of the first-round of a STRIKEFORCE: Challengers event last March 26.

The birth name of the 5-foot-11, 33-year-old is “Ronald,” but he prefers to be addressed as “Abongo,” the name of an African warrior spirit believed to protect a village located in The Republic of Ghana. The moniker was bestowed upon him a few years ago after he endured a series of mentally and physically grueling tasks during a rites of passage trip to Africa.

Humphrey’s experience there inspired him to establish a non-profit organization that allows him to introduce other African-Americans to their heritage by bringing them to Africa.

“There are certain things that are lacking in the black community here and one of them has to do with cultural identity,” said Humphrey, whose only loss came to Brett “The Grim” Rogers. “Fighting and doing the community work in Africa is something that really drives me and motivates me in life.”

Humphrey was introduced to a national audience as a contestant on BET’s MMA reality series “Iron Ring” where he was a member of a fight team coached by MMA star, “Mr. International” Shonie Carter, and managed by hip-hop artist and producer Lil’ Jon.

“Some people are under the impression that most of the fighters on the show were push overs, but I fought and defeated some pretty well-known contenders,” Humphrey said. Among those he defeated during his stint on “Iron Ring” were former K-1 USA contender, Jeff “Big Diesel” Ford, and Carlos Moreno, who Humphrey knocked out with a head kick.

“I move more like a 205-pounder than I do a 245. I bring a lot of athleticism and skill into the cage,” Humphrey said.

Kyle has won four in a row and eight out of nine and is the last fighter to defeat highly touted Rafael “Feijao’’ Cavalcante. His only setback since April 2008 came against world-class Fabricio Werdum, who is fighting Fedor Emelianenko, the world’s No. 1 fighter, on June 26.

Comcast Arena at Everett doors will open for the STRIKEFORCE Challengers event at 5:15 p.m. The first preliminary bout will begin at 6 p.m. PT. The first main card bout will start at 8 p.m.

Pres Release

EVERETT, Wash. (June 10, 2010) –Undefeated heavyweight prospect Shane Del Rosario (9-0) will attempt to extend his unblemished streak when he faces fellow heavy hitter Lolohea Mahe (4-1-1) in the main event of a STRIKEFORCE Challengers Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fight card at Comcast Arena at Everett, live on SHOWTIME® at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast), on Friday, July 23.

Unbeaten STRIKEFORCE Women’s World Welterweight (135 pounds) Champion and former ballet dancer Sarah Kaufman (11-0) will put her perfect record as well as her crown on the line against international star Roxanne Modafferi (15-5).

In other featured action, Abongo Humphrey (7-1) will take on Mike “Mak” Kyle (16-7-1) at light heavyweight (205 pounds).

A special pre-sale ticket purchase opportunity for the STRIKEFORCE Challengers event will take place for “STRIKEFORCE Insider” e-newsletter subscribers , beginning at 10 a.m. PT Tomorrow/Friday, June 11, until 10 p.m. PT on Sunday, June 13. STRIKEFORCE Insiders will receive a special e-newsletter with the pre-sale code.

Tickets for the event go on sale to the general public at 10 a.m. PT on Monday, June 14 and can be purchased at the Comcast Arena box office (866-332-8499) as well as online at ComcastArenaEverett.com and STRIKEFORCE’s official website.

Del Rosario, of Irvine, Calif., hasn’t come close to losing since turning pro in August 2006. He has yet to go the distance; in fact, only one of his fights has gone past the first round.

In his last start, Del Rosario, who’ll be making his fifth appearance on SHOWTIME, submitted (omoplata) Brandon Cash at 2:57 of the first round on a STRIKEFORCE Challengers event on Nov. 6, 2009. Seven of his previous eight victories came via knockout.

Besides power, the 6-foot-4, 27-year-old Del Rosario possesses excellent movement and quickness. A graduate of UC Irvine with a degree in Psychology, Del Rosario played basketball in high school. He also is an active professional Muay Thai fighter and is 6-1 (six knockouts).

Mahe will be trying to regain his winning ways after suffering the first defeat of his career in his last start to Lavar Johnson during a STRIKEFORCE Challengers event last March 26.

An American Samoan who resides and fights out of Kahului Maui, Hawaii, the heavy-handed 6-foot-4, 28-year-old had his fair share of pavement punchouts before turning to MAA in November 2007,

Outside the cage, the married father of three children is very active in the Church. Every Saturday he and his family clean the local church (Ala Lani United Methodist Church).

Kaufman, of Victoria, British Canada, captured the first-ever STRIKEFORCE Women’s 135-pound Championship in her last start with a unanimous five-round decision over Takayo Hashi in the main event of a STRIKEFORCE Challengers card last Feb. 26.

In her outing before last on June 19, 2009, on SHOWTIME, the 5-feet-5, 24-year-old Kaufman outpointed Shayna Baszler in the historic first five-minute, three-round women’s fight.

Regarded as perhaps the most powerful, pure puncher in women’s MMA, Kaufman is an avid ballet, jazz and hip hop dancer who only discovered the sport after a martial arts gym opened underneath her dance studio when she was 17. She attended the University of Victoria for two years with the goal of becoming a cardiovascular surgeon before focusing her efforts on MMA.

A pro since 2006, Kaufman knocked out her first eight opponents before earning a hard-fought decision over Miesha Tate during the first-ever STRIKEFORCE Challengers event on May 15, 2009.

Modafferi, of Wilmington, Del., is coming off the biggest victory of her career, a three-round decision over highly regarded Tara LaRosa last May 21. The 5-foot-7, 27-year-old Modafferi has won eight of her last nine starts. The loss came in her STRIKEFORCE debut against Marloes Coenen on the undercard of “Fedor vs. Rogers’’ on Nov. 7, 2009.

One of the most unique and eclectic fighters in MMA, Modafferi cannot only be defined by fighting alone. A long-time admirer of Japanese culture, she graduated from the University of Massachusetts in 2005 with a major in Japanese Language and Literature and a minor in Linguistics. Her pro debut on Nov. 10, 2003, came in Japan during her junior year of college.

Soon after graduating college, Modafferi moved to Japan on a permanent basis after securing a full-time teaching position in which she taught English. Her earliest MMA victories came in Japan. But the lack of comparable competition made it virtually impossible for the terrific grappler to get fights, so she moved back to the United States.

Regarding her style, Modafferi says, “I put a lot of value in perfection, which is why I generally like grappling more than striking. I think it takes the perfect pressure, the perfect control, to pull off a beautiful submission hold. You take an armbar to the point of breaking, until the opponent gives up, and you let them go, unharmed. I think it’s smooth, beautiful and masterful. I don’t really want to break somebody’s face and make them bleed — just make them give up.”

Humphrey, a military son who was born on a base in Vacaville, Calif., and resides in Atlanta, Ga., scored a submission over George Bush (guillotine choke) at 1:44 of the first-round of a STRIKEFORCE: Challengers event last March 26.

The birth name of the 5-foot-11, 33-year-old is “Ronald,” but he prefers to be addressed as “Abongo,” the name of an African warrior spirit believed to protect a village located in The Republic of Ghana. The moniker was bestowed upon him a few years ago after he endured a series of mentally and physically grueling tasks during a rites of passage trip to Africa.

Humphrey’s experience there inspired him to establish a non-profit organization that allows him to introduce other African-Americans to their heritage by bringing them to Africa.

“There are certain things that are lacking in the black community here and one of them has to do with cultural identity,” said Humphrey, whose only loss came to Brett “The Grim” Rogers. “Fighting and doing the community work in Africa is something that really drives me and motivates me in life.”

Humphrey was introduced to a national audience as a contestant on BET’s MMA reality series “Iron Ring” where he was a member of a fight team coached by MMA star, “Mr. International” Shonie Carter, and managed by hip-hop artist and producer Lil’ Jon.

“Some people are under the impression that most of the fighters on the show were push overs, but I fought and defeated some pretty well-known contenders,” Humphrey said. Among those he defeated during his stint on “Iron Ring” were former K-1 USA contender, Jeff “Big Diesel” Ford, and Carlos Moreno, who Humphrey knocked out with a head kick.

“I move more like a 205-pounder than I do a 245. I bring a lot of athleticism and skill into the cage,” Humphrey said.

Kyle has won four in a row and eight out of nine and is the last fighter to defeat highly touted Rafael “Feijao’’ Cavalcante. His only setback since April 2008 came against world-class Fabricio Werdum, who is fighting Fedor Emelianenko, the world’s No. 1 fighter, on June 26.

Comcast Arena at Everett doors will open for the STRIKEFORCE Challengers event at 5:15 p.m. The first preliminary card bout will begin at 6 p.m. and the first main card bout will begin at 8 p.m.

Press Release

Featured title fight between top Canadian & Hawaiian 170-pounders to headline “TFC 11: Destiny”

Edmonton, Alberta (Canada): The Fight Club (TFC), one of the fastest-growing fight promotion in Canada, has secured a world class main event for its next event, “TFC 11: FORD vs WOLFF.” On Saturday, July 17th, live at the Shaw Conference Centre in Edmonton, Alberta, TFC World Welterweight Champion Ryan “The Real Deal” Ford will defend his title against the man considered to be the number one 170 lb. fighter in Hawaii, UFC veteran Brandon Wolff. Tickets are available through http://www.thefightclub.ca/, or (780) 991-5670.

TFC 11 will be shown on pay-per-view across Canada on Shaw, Shaw Direct, Bell TV, and Viewers Choice, offering virtually all Canadians the opportunity to purchase and watch the show live. The event will also be broadcasted at many commercial establishments, bars, pubs, lounges, and casinos across Canada. In addition, through a distribution agreement with Ringside Boxing & MMA, the event will be televised to a potential worldwide audience of over 150 million viewers (on a delayed basis). News on a press conference will be announced soon.

Ryan “The Real Deal” Ford (12-2) is viewed by many to be the next great Canadian welterweight after UFC 170-pound kingpin Georges St-Pierre. A native of Edmonton, “The Real Deal” won the TFC welterweight title on December 5th of last year when he knocked out California native John Walsh (10-5) in just thirteen seconds at “TFC 9: TOTAL CHOAS.” Ford holds victories over UFC vets Pete Spratt, CJ Fernandes, and Tommy Speer, who he defeated via first round submission at the most recent TFC event, “TFC 10: HIGH OCTANE” on March 19th. Ford is currently riding a four-fight win streak.

At “DESTINY,” Brandon Wolff (7-4) will be looking to lift the TFC welterweight strap from Ford. Wolff, who holds the X-1 welterweight title, stands five feet, ten inches tall, and trains with Team MMAD in Hawaii. The former Navy SEAL is a veteran of the UFC, the WEC, Rumble on the Rock, EliteXC, and K-1, and has faced top-flight competition such as Riki Fukuda, Chad Reiner, Ben Saunders, and Yoshiyuki Yoshida. After going 3-2 in an up-and-down early career, Wolff came out victorious in four straight fights, which included a unanimous decision victory over Chad Klingensmith at “EliteXC: Uprising.” In May of 2008, Wolff faced the UFC veteran Reiner for the X-1 welterweight title. After five grueling rounds, Wolff was awarded the unanimous decision victory and the championship. Now, he will look to add TFC hardware to his collection.

The Fight Club is also pleased to announce the addition of Ron “The Yacman” Yacovetti, who will now handle play-by-play commentary cageside for “TFC 11: FORD vs WOLFF.” “The Yacman,” who is the face of the MMA social networking website Fightlaunch.com, has done fight commentary for several other organizations, including the Korean MMA promotion Spirit MC (Spirit Martial Challenge), and the California-based Art of Fighting promotion. In addition, Ron co-hosts a weekly Web TV series entitled “The Yac & J Show,” a comedic news magazine style show.

Look for the additional fights to be announced in the coming weeks. For more information, please visit our website at http://www.thefightclub.ca/.

Press Release

Featured title fight between top Canadian & Hawaiian 170-pounders to headline “TFC 11: Destiny” event

Edmonton, Alberta (Canada): The Fight Club (TFC), one of the fastest-growing fight promotions in Canada, has secured a world class main event for its next event, “TFC 11: DESTINY.” On Saturday, July 17th, live at the Shaw Conference Centre in Edmonton, Alberta, TFC World Welterweight Champion Ryan “The Real Deal” Ford will defend his title against the man considered to be the number one 170 lb. fighter in Hawaii, UFC veteran Brandon Wolff. Tickets are available through http://www.thefightclub.ca/, or (780) 991-5670.

“DESTINY” will be shown on pay-per-view across Canada on Shaw, Shaw Direct, Bell TV, and Viewers Choice, offering virtually all Canadians the opportunity to purchase and watch the show live. The event will also be broadcasted at many commercial establishments, bars, pubs, lounges, and casinos across Canada. In addition, through a distribution agreement with Ringside Boxing & MMA, the event will be televised to a potential worldwide audience of over 150 million viewers (on a delayed basis). News on a press conference will be announced soon.

Ryan “The Real Deal” Ford (12-2) is viewed by many to be the next great Canadian welterweight after UFC 170-pound kingpin Georges St-Pierre. A native of Edmonton, “The Real Deal” won the TFC welterweight title on December 5th of last year when he knocked out California native John Walsh (10-5) in just thirteen seconds at “TFC 9: TOTAL CHOAS.” Ford holds victories over UFC vets Pete Spratt, CJ Fernandes, and Tommy Speer, who he defeated via first round submission at the most recent TFC event, “TFC 10: HIGH OCTANE” on March 19th. Ford is currently riding a four-fight win streak.

At “DESTINY,” Brandon Wolff (7-4) will be looking to lift the TFC welterweight strap from Ford. Wolff, who holds the X-1 welterweight title, stands five feet, ten inches tall, and trains with Team MMAD in Hawaii. The former Navy SEAL is a veteran of the UFC, the WEC, Rumble on the Rock, EliteXC, and K-1, and has faced top-flight competition such as Riki Fukuda, Chad Reiner, Ben Saunders, and Yoshiyuki Yoshida. After going 3-2 in an up-and-down early career, Wolff came out victorious in four straight fights, which included a unanimous decision victory over Chad Klingensmith at “EliteXC: Uprising.” In May of 2008, Wolff faced the UFC veteran Reiner for the X-1 welterweight title. After five grueling rounds, Wolff was awarded the unanimous decision victory and the championship. Now, he will look to add TFC hardware to his collection.

The Fight Club is also pleased to announce the addition of Ron “The Yacman” Yacovetti, who will now handle play-by-play commentary cageside for “TFC 11: DESTINY.” “The Yacman,” who is the face of the MMA social networking website FightLaunch.com, has done fight commentary for several other organizations, including the Korean MMA promotion Spirit MC (Spirit Martial Challenge), and the Florida-based Art of Fighting promotion. In addition, Ron co-hosts a weekly Web TV series entitled “The Yac & J Show,” a comedic news magazine style show.

Look for the additional fights to be announced in the coming weeks. For more information, please visit our website at http://www.thefightclub.ca/.

Press Release

CageSport MMA
May 15, 2010
7:00 P.M Emerald Queen Casino

(Tacoma, WA) Brian Halquist Productions brings the Northwest’s favorite combative sports event back to the Emerald Queen Casino for CageSport MMA on Saturday May 15. The doors open at 6pm and the first fight is scheduled for 7pm. This show will feature a talented mix of fighters including many from the Pacific Northwest.

The main event features Tacoma’s own Matt “The Attack” Kovacs (4-3) who will fight Corey Williams (5-2) for the Heavyweight CageSport Championship. Kovacs, who trains with Arlington Kickboxing Academy was featured at Strikeforce: “At the Dome,” back in 2008. His brawling style and persistence in the ring make for exciting action every time Kovacs faces an opponent. He has the ability to escape from tight situations in order to come back and then dominate the fight. Williams comes from a boxing background and takes those skills, including powerful punches, to the cage.

In the co-main event, Tyson “Strait Jacket” Johnson (4-0) will face Patrick Prescott (1-0) in what promises to be a great fight. Back in February of this year, Johnson improved on his already perfect record by securing a guillotine choke at 4:38 in the first round. With his strait jacket clad entrance and performance both in and out of the ring, Johnson is bound to put on a great show. Keep an eye on Johnson after his fight, he may startle the audience by pulling out one of his few remaining teeth.

Also on the card will be crowd favorites, Calvin “Carnage” Horton, Chanti “The Brooklyn Knight” Johnson, and Sterling “Thunda Kat” Ford in three separate fights. These three fighters have all fought at the Emerald Queen Casino and have met with success on numerous occasions. Horton brings excitement to the cage when he fights and keeps the crowd on their feet. Johnson’s aggressive style makes him a crowd favorite; his enthusiastic celebrations also give fans something to talk about. As for Ford, he is able to maintain great composure during his fights, and has great stand up and floor skills. All three fighters will help to keep fans on the edge of their seats.

These fights highlight an explosive MMA event that will be capped off by the Heavyweight Championship fight. The winner will join Lightweight Champion, Lloyd Woodard, as CageSport MMA champions.

The Fight Card

Matt Kovacs (4-3) vs. Corey Williams (5-2)

Calvin Horton (3-0) vs. Carmen Cassella (5-6)

Chanti Johnson (5-2) vs. Brandon Hempleman (2-0)

Sterling Ford (7-4) vs. Chris Ensley (5-7)

Tyson Johnson (4-0) vs. Patrick Prescott (1-0)

Charley Shaw (1-0) vs. Josh Snodgrass (0-2)

Tim Welch (2-0) vs. Jose Rico (1-3)

Jory Erickson (6-1) vs. Dave Courchaine (3-3)

Jared Torgeson (1-1) vs. Tony King (0-1)

Brent Warner (3-2) vs. Jaris Bierer (1-0)

TICKETS

Available at the Emerald Queen Casino box office 1-888-831-7655 and at all Ticketmaster outlets. Or online at www.ticketmaster.com

Ticket Prices: *$100 – $55 – $35

Get up to date information at: www.Halquistproductions.com

For more information or fighter interviews contact event coordinator Kelly Thompson at (509) 607-0497

* Includes VIP Party 5:00-7:00 pm at the Bridge Night Club. For food and drink specials.

Quickie Facts

What: CageSport MMA
Where: Emerald Queen Casino’s I-5 Showroom
When: May 15, 2010
Time: Event starts at 7:00 P.M. Doors open at 6:00 P.M.

The Maximum Fighting Championship loves an exciting fighter and welterweight
Pete “Secret Weapon” Spratt more than fits the bill. Of his 20 wins, ten
have come via KO and eight by submission. Only half of his fights have gone
beyond the first round and only two of those ended in a decision. Pete
Spratt obviously comes to win. And his experience in impressive – in his 11
years as a professional MMA fighter he’s been in the ring with Carlos
Newton, Robbie Lawler, Georges St. Pierre, and Josh Koscheck, to name a few.

Pete Spratt first appeared in the Maximum Fighting Championship against Ryan
Ford at MFC 15: Rags to Riches, on February 22, 2008. It was anything but a
smooth introduction to the organization. “A lot of funny stuff happened”,
recalls Spratt, “and it put me at a disadvantage mentally, so I couldn’t get
things done.”

What kind of funny stuff? Well it started with his corner man being deported
to Brazil after weigh in, leaving Pete to scramble for a replacement. Then
during the fight, Ford landed two solid elbows to Spratt’s head after the
first-round bell. A dazed Spratt ended up losing that fight via a rear naked
choke in the second round for a loss that MFC CEO Mark Pavelich himself has
called, “a robbery”.

But true warriors never give up and Pete Spratt was willing to give the MFC
another chance. Just under one year later, Spratt returned against Nathan
Gunn in MFC 22: Payoff in a fight that has earned it’s place in the annals
of Maximum Fighting Championship history.

Spratt was behind on the scorecards in the second round when he noticed a
pattern in the way Gunn was ducking his head. A former Golden Gloves boxer
who currently trains under former WBC champion “Jesse” James Leija, Spratt
knew what to do. He landed three vicious right hooks right on target, then
closed the deal with a thunderous, perfectly timed uppercut that, to quote
Pavelich, “looked like it was out of Popeye”.

Gunn dropped like a sack of rocks and Spratt went down in MFC history,
scoring the 2009 Knockout of the Year. Anyone who’s seen that fight will
understand why Pavelich says, “when he’s matched well, Pete Spratt is one of
the most exciting fighters out there”.

On May 7, 2009 at Maximum Fighting Championship 25: Vindication, Spratt will
be facing off against Luigi “The Italian Tank” Fioravanti. When asked about
his opponent, Spratt’s response is matter-of-fact. “He’s a good,
well-rounded fighter and I’m not going to approach it any differently than
any other fight… just a lot of hard training.” And what does hard training
mean to Pete Spratt? It means muay thai with Mark Dellagrotte, Brazilian
jiu-jitsu with Rodrigo Pinheiro, boxing with “Jesse” James Leija, and a
two-week training camp with Dan Henderson and Team Quest or Randy Couture
and Extreme Couture.
(more...)