CageCraze.com was live Saturday night from the Ohio Nets Sports Complex in Parma, Ohio for Dan Bobish’s fourth MMA event, Ultimate Cage Battles: Pride and Glory.  Bobish, a pioneer of MMA who fought Vale Tudo tournaments in Brazil, made it to the finals of the UFC heavyweight tournament at UFC 14 and also fought for Pride has finally settled down and moved to another stage of his career as a fight promoter.  Bobish has teamed up with matchmaker Ron Foster to bring an action packed night of fights to northeast Ohio.

Headlining the pro/am card was a 178 lb catchweight bout between UFC veteran Forrest “The Meat Cleaver” Petz and former Green Bay Packer Herbert “Whisper” Goodman.  Petz, a Cleveland native was looking for a big win to get back on track and punch his ticket back to the UFC while Goodman, a member of the HIT Squad was looking to rebound from a recent loss to Bellator middleweight champion Hector Lombard.  Also on the main card was rising middleweight Brian Rogers, who was riding a four fight knockout streak as he faced submission specialist Robert Conner out of West Virginia.  On top of the four professional main card bouts, there were 8 amateur fights on the undercard.

Here are the official play-by-play results from last night (sorry, the internet connection was unreliable, couldn’t post it live)

Amateur Bouts

Josh Berkley vs Brandon Seylor (lightweight)

Round 1: Seylor pushes forward with a flurry that stuns Berkley and works for a guillotine choke. Berkley escapes but eats some big shots and he’s on the defensive. Seylor clinches into the cage, works the takedown and gets it. Berkley rolls out and ends up on top but gets reversed but Seylor lets him up, respecting his ground game. Seylor leaps forward and lands a HUGE hook that drops Berkley. Seylor works some ground and pound and Berkley gives up his back. Seylor locks in the rear naked choke to earn the submission victory at 1:45 of the 1st round

Nick Schenk vs Bobby Gilmore (160 lbs)

Round 1: Gilmore shoots and lands a big takedown right away, passing to half guard. Gilmore works his ground and pound from on top, Schenk gets it back to closed guard but Gilmore is postured up and dropping bombs to the body and head. Gilmore lands a big flurry and Schenk gives up his back but Gilmore can’t take advantage. The round ends with Gilmore on top landing ground and pound.

Round 2: Gilmore shoots again for a takedown and gets it. Gilmore is focused on advancing position now, moving to side control and securing the mount. Gilmore drops some bombs and Schenk gives up his back. Gilmore tries to secure a rear naked choke but Schenk won’t give it up. Gilmore gets the hooks, softens him up with some punches and this time locks in rear naked choke, forcing the tap at 2:39 of the 2nd round.

Christian Anderson vs Eric Ferguson (heavyweight)

Round 1: Both men come out throwing bombs, they are throwing with reckless abandon! This is an absolute sloppy slugfest! Anderson shoots for a takedown and gets it but Ferguson ends up on top. Ferguson lands some light punches for about a minute straight as Anderson defends. Anderson reverses and works for the finish as the round ends but can’t get it.

Round 2: Both men push forward and throw punches but the pace is slowed from round 1. Anderson is exhausted. Ferguson pushes Anderson into the fence and throws some short uppercuts but Anderson responds. Both men move to the center of the cage and throw wild looping punches that land hard and the crowd goes nuts. Anderson falls down and turtles up but Ferguson can’t finish him as the round concludes.

Round 3: Anderson opens with a leg kick and Ferguson responds with a kick of his own. Both men trade leg kicks but Anderson is landing the cleaner strikes. Ferguson clinches but Anderson lands a big uppercut that hurts him. Anderson pushes forward landing some big shots! Ferguson leans over and Anderson latches on a guillotine and Ferguson taps out at 0:41 of the 3rd round!

Marcus Esler vs Joe Callari (welterweight)

Round 1: Callari opens with some aggression, landing a jab and both men trade sick flurries along the fence. Esler clinches, picks Callari up and takes him down shifting immediately to the mount. Esler postures up but Callari rolls him over and is now on top. Callari tries to slam out of Esler’s closed guard but can’t advance position or do any damage. The ref stands them up and Callari pushes forward landing a huge flurry of punches. Esler clinches and Callari drops for a guillotine choke. Esler slips out of it and throws some ground and pound as the round ends.

Round 2: Collari lands a leg kick and both fighters circle. Collari lands another leg kick but Esler clinches into the cage and throws some knees. Collari attempts a guillotine but Esler slips out of it. Collari circles away and lands some big punches but Esler responds with a big looping hook that stuns Collari. Collari backs off and Esler tries to throw a leg kick but Collari catches it and takes him down into side control. Collari lands some BIG knees that make the crowd wince and transitions to the full mount, pushing Esler into the cage. Collari drops some weak hammer fists from the full mount and all Esler is doing is defending. Collari isn’t doing enough damage with his hammerfists though and the round concludes with Collari in the mount position.

Round 3: Esler clinches but Collari spins out and tries to land some punches. Esler pushes Collari into the cage but Collari is sprawling. Collari goes for a guillotine but Esler picks him up and slams him to the canvas. Esler traps one of Collari’s arms, landing some punches and advances to the full mount. Collari gives up his back and Esler is really working for the rear naked choke but he can’t secure it as the round ends.  Joe Collari wins a split decision.

Shane Rivera vs Justin Cooper (middleweight)

Round 1: Cooper immediately shoots after the glove touch and lands a takedown, advancing to half guard quickly. Cooper slips out of the closed guard and advances to side control. Rivera pushes his legs off the cage to somersault back to standing but Cooper lands some big punches and shoots for the takedown again. Cooper postures up in the half guard and lands some nice ground and pound. Rivera stands up but eats a huge punch that stuns him right before the round ends.

Round 2: Cooper pushes forward landing some big punches and Rivera gets very defensive. Rivera lands a push kick but Cooper shoots in deep, picks him up and slams Rivera down hard. Cooper advances to the mount position and starts dropping some big punches and the ref steps in and stops the fight at 1:00 of the 2nd round.

Dallas Dishman vs Rich Randolph (welterweight)

Round 1: Dishman lunges forward and he’s throwing incredibly wild haymakers. Randolph ducks one and Dishman loses his balance rolling onto the ground. Randolph jumps into Dishman’s guard and immediately regrets it as Dishman latches on a tight armbar. Just when it looks like the fight is over, Randolph escapes. Dishman shoots for a takedown but Randolph ends up on top. Randolph lands some decent punches on the ground, stands up and drops down with a tremendous punch that hurts Dishman but he can’t do anything with his advantage as the round ends.  Dishman refuses to answer the bell at the start of the 2nd round and Randolph wins via verbal submission.

Jake Huffman vs Jeremiah Yeager (lightweight)

Round 1: Huffman shoots for a takedown quickly but Yeager stuffs it and pushes him forward. Huffman gets to his feet and again dives for the takedown and this time he gets it as Yeager searches for a guillotine choke but can’t lock it in. Huffman advances to half guard and then to full mount but Yeager spins out of it. Yeager can’t get to his feet and Huffman is back on top in the mount. Huffman postures up and Yeager pushes up and rolls him over into full guard. Yeager drops some punches from on top and Huffman searches for a triangle but can’t secure it as Yeager finishes the round landing some nice ground and pound.

Round 2: Yeager lands a thunderous body kick to open the round and Huffman absorbs it as he shoots for the takedown. Huffman pushes Yeager against the cage and leaps on Yeager’s back rolling over into a rear naked choke. Somehow Yeager slips out and now Yeager is going for a guillotine choke but Huffman slams him down and slips out of it. Huffman postures up and lands some nice punches from on top. Yeager gives up his back and Huffman gets his hooks in, boxing Yeager’s ears and searching for the choke. Huffman finishes the round from the back mount landing some nice ground and pound.

Round 3: Huffman quickly shoots for the takedown to start the third round and Yeager is on his butt with his back against the cage. Yeager wall walks back to his feet but Huffman pulls him back down. The ref stands them up and Huffman wants none of the striking game, immediately shooting for the takedown again and getting it. Huffman lands some nice knees from side control but the ref stands them up again for some reason. Huffman dives for Yeager’s legs and can’t get the takedown and Yeager drops some big punches. Huffman is persistent and get’s Yeager on the ground but Yeager slips out, jumps on Huffman’s back and locks in a rear naked choke and he gets it at 2:43 of the third round! WOW! Yeager was 17 seconds away from losing that fight. Epic comeback!

Billy Freedson vs Cody Garbrandt (featherweight)

Round 1: Freedson closes the distance but Garbrandt shrugs him off effortlessly. Freedson lands a leg kick while Garbrandt stalks from the center of the cage. Garbrandt lands a solid leg kick, and pushes forward with a big flurry that stuns Freedson. Freedson makes a desperation dive for Garbrandt’s legs but Garbrandt escapes, pushes forward with some thundering punches and drops Freedson. Freedson is hurt and Garbrandt gives him no breathing room, landing a more on the ground as the ref stops the fight at 1:18 of the first round.

Professional Bouts:

Tiawon Howard (Iron Dragon MMA) vs Eric Moon (MASH Fight Team) (welterweight)

Round 1: Howard with a quick 1-2 punch combo and a body kick but Moon catches the kick and takes Howard down, passing to side control. Howard reverses him and lands some nice body shots and gets the fight back to standing. Moon wants none of it and he clinches looking for a takedown. Howard is landing some nice punches to the body while Moon searches for the takedown. Moon lands a couple foot stomps while Howard defends the takedown attempts. Moon lands some big knees to the thigh as Howard is trapped against the cage. Howard pushes him off and lands a couple big punches and a head kick. Moon again clinches and pushes Howard into the fence, landing some big knees to the inner thighs. Moon turns the corner and takes Howard down hard. Howard throws his legs up searching for a submission but Moon passes his guard. Howard lunges back to his feet and lands a big spree of punches to close out the round but it wasn’t enough.

Round 2: Howard lands a side kick to open the round but Moon closes the distance and clinches up, pushing Howard against the cage. Moon shoots deep, picking Howard up and dropping him on the ground. Howard uses a nice up-kick to create distance and get back to his feet but Moon again shoots for a takedown. Howard separates and both fighters are in the center of the cage posturing. Moon catches Howard’s first kick and takes him down. Howard gets to his feet avoiding Moon’s guillotine attempt and lands some powerful strikes but Moon grabs a leg and turns the corner taking him to the ground. The ref stands them up. Howard again gets the better of the strikes and Moon shoots for a takedown but this time Howard locks up a kimura! It’s really tight despite Howard being on bottom. Moon refuses to give up top position and Howard shifts the kimura up forcing Moon to tap out at 3:38 of the 2nd round! That was amazing!

Brian Rogers (Team Strongstyle) vs Robert Conner (Team Coalition) (middleweight)

Round 1: Rogers quickly takes the center of the cage. Rogers hurts Conner with his first punch and Conner shoots for a takedown, wanting none of the stand up. Rogers shrugs off the attempts easily but Conner shoots and finally gets Rogers down. Rogers avoids damage and gets to his feet but Conner pins him against the cage and is landing some knees. Rogers lands a big right that drops Conner and he follows him to the ground, landing some brutal ground and pound. Conner reestablishes his guard and Rogers lets him up but not for long. Rogers lunges forward with a monstrous knee that drops Conner and he finishes the fight with ground and pound before the ref stops it at 3:01 of the 1st round.

Jason Riley (Buckeye MMA) vs Bobby Brents (Team Warrior Concepts) (heavyweight)

Round 1: Riley is by far the taller man and he’s got a big reach advantage. Riley using his jab to keep the distance and Brents lunges forward with some big hooks. Brents using his striking to clinch and go for a takedown but Riley defends, securing an underhook against the cage. Brents lands a nice left hook as they separate and Riley again takes command of the center of the cage. Riley lands a nice 1-2 hook combo but backs off and eats a big leg kick from Brents. Brents starts going to work on Riley’s leg with some kicks and changes it up with a diving right hand that lands. Riley puts Brents in a Muay Thai clinch and lands a big knee, following it up with a couple solid punches but he doesn’t move in for the kill allowing Brents to recover. Brents responds with a big right leg kick and Riley catches him with an uppercut as Brents is leaning forward. Riley is finding his distance striking but he’s not putting together anything that will hurt Brents. Riley lands a flying knee right as the horn sounds.

Round 2: Brents hits Riley right in the groin to open the second round. Riley catches a body kick from Brents but lets it go. Brents lands a big hook that stuns Riley and he actually follows it up, swarming Riley with some big punches. Riley goes defensive and Brents shoots for the takedown and slams Riley on his back into half guard. Brents is searching for an arm from top position and he grabs Riley’s right arm, cranking it hard. Riley is caught off guard and winces in pain, tapping out immediately at 1:37 of the 2nd round due to keylock.

Main Event:

Forrest Petz (Team Strongstyle) vs Herbert Goodman (HIT Squad) 178 lb catchweight

Round 1: Petz working the leg kick early and Goodman responds with a kick of his own. Both fighters exchange and Goodman lands a nice right hook. Petz ducks a hook, lands a nice right to the body and a big left that hits Goodman hard. Goodman counters with a perfectly timed takedown and advances to a dominant position along the cage landing some nice right hands but Petz pushes forward off the fence and puts Goodman on his back. The ref stands them up and both fighters circle looking for an opening. Petz lands a left hook and goes back to work with the leg kicks. Goodman comes in and eats a big right to the body followed by a 1-2 combo. The round ends anti-climatically with both fighters keeping their distance.

Round 2: Petz takes control of the center of the cage early and Goodman shoots for a takedown. Petz stuffs it but he’s stuck with his back against the cage. Petz circles around and puts Goodman against the cage. Petz drops down for a takedown but Goodman defends it well. After a little dirty boxing, Petz backs off. Goodman lands the best strike of the night with a huge body kick that lands with a sickening thud but Petz doesn’t appear fazed. Pets leaps forward and lands a nice hook but again refuses to follow up. Another nice leg kick from Goodman and Goodman shoots as Petz throws a right hand but ends up with his back against the cage. Nice knee from Goodman along the cage and Petz responds with a punch as they separate. Goodman again lands a big leg kickand circles away from danger. Petz responds with a solid kick with 10 seconds left in the round and again neither fighter tries to steal the round .

Round 3: Petz opens the 3^rd more aggressively with a double jab and Goodman shoots for a takedown. Petz stuffs it but misses a huge opportunity for a fight-ending knee. Petz stomps Goodman’s foot and both fighters back off. Petz lands a big left hand but again doesn’t follow up. Goodman lands a nice right of his own but he backs off afterwards as well. Petz throws a decent right to the body and ducks a hook from Goodman. Goodman times a takedown excellently and slams Petz to the mat but Petz rolls Goodman over into the mount! Petz takes Goodman’s back and then switches to top control from half guard. Petz is working some light ground and pound and Goodman gets back to his feet . Both fighters separate and Petz lands a nice inside leg kick. Goodman shoots for a takedown but Petz stuffs it and follows up with his most exciting striking of the night just in time for the final horn.  Forrest Petz wins via unanimous decision.

Quick Results:

Amateur Bouts:

Brandon Seylor submits Josh Berkley (rear naked choke) at 1:45 of the 1st round

Bobby Gilmore defeats Nick Schenk via submission (rear naked choke) at 2:39 of the 2nd round

Christian Anderson defeats Eric Ferguson via submission (guillotine choke) at :41 of the 3rd round

Joe Collari defeats Marcus Esler via split decision

Justin Cooper defeats Shane Rivera via TKO at 1:00 of the 2nd round.

Rich Randolph defeats Dallas Dishman via verbal submission at 3:00 of the 1st round

Jeremiah Yeager defeats Jake Huffman via submission (rear naked choke) at 2:43 of the 3rd round

Cody Garbrandt defeats Billy Freedson via TKO at 1:18 of the 1st round

Professional Bouts:

Tiawan Howard defeats Eric Moon via submission (kimura) at 3:38 of the 2nd round

Brian Rogers defeats Robert Conner via TKO at 3:01 of the 1st round.

Bobby Brents defeats Jason Riley via submission (keylock) at 1:37 of the 2nd round

Forrest Petz defeats Herbert Goodman via unanimous decision.

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“I feel like this is my opportunity.”

CageCraze.com Profile: Casey “Hellbent” Huffman

Photo: Mark Perry of MPFotografie

Casey Huffman has been a fixture in the Indiana fight scene for the past three years.  The middleweight training out of Kokomo, Indiana considers himself a striker, although he also teaches Brazilian jiu jitsu at the Garra BJJ gym.  Casey took 2010 by storm, winning all three of his professional fights by stoppage, but he’s not slowing down now.  When Yancy Medeiros was forced to withdraw from a Strikeforce Challengers fight due to a training injury, Casey answered the call and stepped up to face UFC veteran John Salter on short notice.  He will be making his Strikeforce debut this upcoming Friday, January 7th in Nashville, his first ever fight outside the state of Indiana and he assures us that he’s not overwhelmed

Casey took the time out of his busy training and work schedule to talk with CageCraze.com for an interview.

Can you tell us a little bit about Garra BJJ in Kokomo, Indiana?

It started off small.  It actually started off in a garage, the owner Tony Wright’s garage.  He lived in Brazil and trained a lot.  We’re actually a Barbosa affiliate from Brazil and it’s pretty amazing.  It’s really catching on.  People are actually realizing that it’s an established, great place to train.  People are travelling to train with us.  I actually trained my last opponent, from my last fight in October.  He came over and trains with us now.  You’ve got Dan Head running the MMA program over there who is a very established fighter and one of my best friends in the whole world.  We’re really starting to gain momentum.  People are finally starting to notice when we go to a fight and there’s three or four of our guys showing up to an event and we’re going 4-0, 5-0.  People are finally starting to recognize us.

Can you tell us about your life trying to balance being a fighter with working a 9-5 job?

It’s tough, it’s very tough.  I work at a factory.  I work for Chrysler at a Die Cast plant so I’m on my feet working all day.  There are days where I come home and I don’t want to get up.  I don’t want to get up and lift weights.  I don’t want to get up and go train jiu jitsu or Muay Thai or anything.  I’m thankful for having a good woman behind me, my fiancé Michelle, she pushes me, “Come on this is your dream!  It’s time to get up, it’s time to go!  You don’t have time to be tired right now.”  It’s hard trying to balance everything but I have a really good family and they’re all behind me backing me in all of this.  It’s tough but they help me make it through.

You mentioned the family, just how important is your family in your career right now?

It’s one of the most important things.  I think if I didn’t have a big family supporting me I don’t think there’s any way I could be doing this right now.  It’s hard sometimes because I have young children and I hate being away so much because to be in shape, to be really good at this sport, you have to donate a lot of time on top of also having a 9-5 job so you’re gone a lot.  I hate being away, but I try to make special time when we are together.  It’s important, they’re my driving force in all of this.

Family even helped create Casey’s nickname

When I told my mother I was gonna start cagefighting.  She said to me, “You’re absolutely hellbent on giving me a heart attack aren’t you?”  It just kinda stuck. (laughs)

You mentioned your opponent from your last fight against Roberto Nieto, he really gave you a stern test.  Your first two professional fights were really quick where you blitzed your opponents and got a first round stoppage.  What did you learn about yourself from a tougher test like that fight?

I really learned that I can be faced with tough opposition, you know?  A lot of my amateur fights and my first couple pro fights, like you said I blitzed through the guys.  I kinda got caught in a position against Robbie where he was taking my best shots and maybe they would wobble him, maybe they would knock him down but he’d keep coming.  The guy was like the energizer bunny, he’s got heart.  The biggest heart I’ve ever seen from any fighter in my life.  It’s like no matter what you do he’ll keep coming.  I remember in between the 2nd and 3rd round telling my corner that I think I’m gonna have to hit the guy with an anvil to get him outta here.  I learned that I can really push through and that I’m pretty decent in all areas.  I always question myself because you always have to question your cardio, question your heart if you go into the later rounds.  Your burst and your brute strength are gone later in a fight.  You’re exhausted, you’re winded but you’re still fighting and I proved to myself that I can do that.

All of your amateur and professional fights have been in Indiana.  What’s it like stepping out into new territory in Nashville for your Strikeforce debut?

It’s actually exciting really.  I took the fight on very short notice so that alleviates some of the nerves because no one really knows who I am or what I’m capable of.  My dream is to fight and my dream is to fight at the big shows so this opportunity is really exciting.

Can you tell us a little bit about your mindset taking a fight on short notice?

My mindset is pretty good.  I try to stay in shape all the time.  I’m not the type of guy that puts on a lot of weight in between fights.  I try to always eat healthy, stay in pretty good shape and I try to make sure I’m always 2-3 weeks out of being in prime shape for a fight.  Obviously it’s always best to have 6-8 weeks to prepare for a fight but I think when you stay in shape, you can keep your mind focused on your goals and you’re capable of fighting on short notice and doing it well.

What’s it like taking on an opponent like John Salter, a guy that actually earned a win in the UFC?

I haven’t watched a lot of footage on him, I’ve left that to my head trainers.  I know he’s definitely going to be my biggest challenge so far.  He fought in the UFC, I believe he wrestled in college near Missouri and he’s been training in some really good camps for a long time.  It’s one of those things where it’s a surreal experience.  I’m gonna be in there with one of the toughest guys around.  The guy fought in the UFC, I have great respect for anyone that does that.  If you fight there, you’re definitely one of the toughest guys around.  I have to respect every aspect of his game but I’m really looking forward to the challenge.  I’m looking to see how I fare against a guy like that.

Are you confident in your game plan against Salter?

I’m always confident in my game plan.  I think my strength in my skills is my stand up.  I know I don’t have a really good pedigree in wrestling but I’m able to use my wrestling in reverse and have a lot of success.  I have good takedown defense and I’m comfortable off my back.  If I don’t think I can get a submission there, I’m able to get the fight back to my feet.  I’m confident in my skills and I think I really have a good chance at this.  I know I’m the underdog by quite a bit because nobody really knows anything about me going into this because he’s already had fights on the big show and has been training and winnings against some top guys.

Are you feeling any extra pressure considering how big of a career opportunity this is?

As of right now, I know it’s kinda early in my pro career because I’m only 3-0 but I just turned 30 years old this past July.  I feel like maybe it’s not so much my days are numbered right now but they could be getting that way and my opportunities are gonna come short the older I get.  When I got this opportunity I knew there was no way I was gonna turn it down.  If this is the only opportunity I have, I have to capitalize on it.  I’m not feeling any extra pressure because this is one of my dreams.  I’ve always wanted to fight.  Ever since I started I wanted to be in the big shows.  I wanted to be one of the recognizable faces in MMA so I feel like this is my opportunity.  Really, there’s no pressure at all.  I’m just excited to be here.

CageCraze.com was live once again from the 8 Seconds Saloon in Indianapolis, Indiana for Legends of Fighting 43: WILD THANG.  The night’s card was stacked with local Midwest talent and long time boxing, now MMA fighter Eric “Butterbean” Esch, along with UFC Vet Chris “The Exorcist” Price. The night’s fights were dedicated to fighter Jeremy “Wild Thang” Ashley who passed away this time last year.  After a ten bell salute and a moment of silence the fights are set to begin.

Amateur Bouts:

Brian Woods Vs. Joe Rainey 155lbs

Rainey comes out the aggressor landing the significant shots from the feet before Woods looks to take the fight to the ground.  After a bodylock takedown Rainey is forced to work from his back and after taking a few shots he scrambles into Woods for a takedown. Rainey shoots in but  is caught in a tight guillotine ending the fight by tapout 1:06 into the first round.

Chris Bottoms vs. Craig Anderson 145lbs

Bottoms finishing Anderson

Both fighters come out looking tentative and miss with consecutive head and leg kicks.  After getting out some beginning jitters the fighters start to settle down and engage into a clinch against the cage.  Bottoms is able to slam Anderson with a body lock and immediately passes to mount where he looks to set up a head and arm triangle.  Bottoms transitions to a triangle from top but rolls to his back before he locks it up and Anderson is able to stay on top before the round comes to a close.  Round 2 begins with Bottoms getting a quick takedown as Anderson comes in swinging he then immediately passes into full mount and starts to rain down punches.  Anderson is able to push off the cage and reverse the position and works short shots from within Bottoms guard.  Bottoms sweeps Anderson into full mount and swings punches from top to end the 2^nd round.  Craig Anderson is unable to come out for the third round.  Sean Bottoms wins by verbal submission (could not continue).

Lloyd Thornton vs Joey Holloway 130lbs

Thornton comes out swinging coaxing Holloway to shoot to avoid damage but leaves his neck exposed and is caught in a guillotine choke 32 seconds into the first round.  Thornton wins by tapout at :32 round 1.

Fight of the Night

Luis Guerra vs. Daniel Blackburn 145lb Amateur Title Fight

Guerra's Ground & Pound

Blackburn rushes in looking for the takedown after some jabs miss their mark but is unsuccessful and the fighters work from the clinch.  Guerra is able to change his level and get a trip takedown from the double-underhook clinch and forces Blackburn into a turtled position against the cage while working short shots to the body.   Guerra works Blackburn to his back and lands some hard shots before the end of the round.  To begin round 2 Blackburn lunges in with a right straight and Guerra answers with a short over the top punch that works into a clinch position.  After a scramble against the cage which Blackburn almost takes the back Guerra is able to come up on top into side control.  Blackburn scrambles to the feet and shoots in to Guerra but is met with a forceful sprawl that prevents him from advancing.  Guerra works some dirty boxing from the clinch to end the second round.  The final round begins with Guerra engaging the clinch and snapping Blackburn into a front headlock position.  Guerra smashes Blackburn to his back and works into side control using constant pressure and short punches to the body and head and that ends the round.  The fight goes all three rounds and to the judge’s score cards for unanimous decision 30-27 for Luis Guerra.

Professional Bouts:

Josh Kinser vs. James Baumgardner 160lbs Catchweight

Kinser comes out looking to utilize his jab but Baumgardner stays out of range looking to work a kick heavy standup attack.  Baumgardner circles away after a clinch and catches Kinser behind the ear with a looping right punch and sends Kinser to a knee and Baumgardner capitalizes and follows up with 3 more rights that render Kinser unconscious. James Baumgardner is declared the winner by KO at 1:44 in round 1.

Tony Alvey vs. Aaron Miller 155lbs

Alvey comes out swinging wildly which prompts Miller to start swinging wild too. After  they get that out of their system they work into a clinch with Miller taking Alvey to the ground. Soon after passing to mount and landing a hard punch Alvey gives up the back Miller is able to sink in the rear naked choke and forces Alvey to tap at 1:20 in round number 1.

Matthew Esch vs. Danny Surface 205lbs

Surface takes down Esch

Surface coming out landing some nice leg kicks to the outside of the lead leg of  Esch then in a feat of pure strength lifts Esch up and walks him across the cage and slams him into his corner.  Surface lands hard knees from side control before passing to mount and landing a flurry of punches that force referee Rob Hinds to call an end to the bout at 1:12 into round 1.  Danny Surface is awarded the win via tapout (punches) at 1:12 in round 1.

Jeremy Pender vs Matt Wilson 140lbs

Both fighters come out looking to strike with Pender landing a hard leg kick that sets up his hands that land hard and stun Wilson into taking a shot.  Pender quickly takes the back and gets the rear naked choke 52 seconds into the round that sends Wilson to sleep.  Pender wins via technical submission (rear naked choke) 0:52 in round 1.

Cory Mahon vs. Ryan McIntosh

Mahon's finishing RNC

Cory shoots in quick and slams McIntosh to the ground into his corner.  McIntosh works from his back and looks to secure a kimura.  Mahon lands hard body shots while McIntosh locks on to the arm. McIntosh lets and Mahon postures up and lands a few shots before standing up and passing to half guard.  Mahon lands hard elbows from half guard and passes to side control where he forces McIntosh into a scramble and takes the back. After getting the hooks and softening McIntosh up he secures the rear naked choke and gets the tap near the end of the first round.  Cory Mahon wins via submission at 3:44 into round one.

Co-Main Event

Christopher Price vs. Ron Carter

Bother fighters looking to strike and waste no time in doing so after some exchanges Price shoots in for a takedown against the cage and gets Carter down into side control before he rolls and is caught with an elbow from Price to the back of the head.  Price is warned for the foul and the action resumes.  Price lands a combo that stuns Carter and forces a shot, Price is able to take the back and sink in the rear naked choke.  Price wins via submission (rear naked choke) at 1:58 in round one.

Main Event

Erich Esch vs. Deon West Super Duper Heavyweight

West takes down "Butterbean"

West looks to clinch and takedown Esch early and does so against the cage he works to half guard and lands some hard punches to the head of Esch.  West passes to side control and presses Esch into the cage. West lands punches and looks up to the ref pleading for him to stop the fight but the action continues until the round ends.  Round 2 begins much like the first with West pressing Esch into the cage until the ref breaks them up.  The pressing match against the cage continues after the action restarts as both fighters look to be gassed and content to stay clinched against the cage. The clinch against the cage and restarting continues to happen for the rest of the round.  Round 3 doesn’t happen because West is unable to answer the bell.  Erich “Butterbean” Esch is awarded the win due to West not being able to continue.

Quick Results:

Amateurs:

Brian Woods defeated  Joe Rainey via Tapout due to Guillotine Choke in 1:06 of the 1^st Round

Chris Bottoms defeated Craig Anderson via Verbal Submission in 3:00 of the 1^st Round

Lloyd Thorton defeated Joey Holloway via Tapout due to Guillotine Choke in 0:22 of the 1^st Round

Luis Guerra defeated Daniel Blackburn via Unanimous Decision (30-27)

Professionals:

James Baumgardner defeated Josh Kinser via KO in  1:44 of the 1^st Round

Aaron Miller defeated Tony Alvey via Tapout due to Rear Naked Choke in 1:20 of the 1^st Round

Danny Surface defeated Matthew (Caleb) Esch via Tapout due to Strikes in1:12 of  the 1^st Round

Jeremy Pender defeats Matt Wilson via Rear Naked Choke in 0:52 of the 1^st Round

Cory Mahon defeats Ryan McIntosh via Tapout due to Rear Naked Choke in 3:44 of the 1^st Round

Co-Main Event:

Christopher Price defeated Ron Carter via Tapout due to Rear Naked Choke in 1:58 of the 1^st Round

Eich  Esch defeats Deon West via Verbal Submission in 5:00 of the 2^nd Round

Hit Squad undefeated Pro Fighter Coltin “The Truth” Cole will be making his Strikeforce debut on Dec 4^th at the Scott Trade Center in St Louis Mo.

Cole will be facing Booker Derousse one of the wrestling coaches out of Jesse Finney’s camp in St Louis.

Cole lives and trains at Matt Hughes Hit Squad and is coming off his first Pro win where he defeated 5-0 Matthew Smart back in October. Before turning Pro Cole held a 12-2 Ammy record with his only losses coming by decision. On Dec 4^th he steps in the cage against the wrestling phenom from Missouri Booker Derousse.

Cole has never been stopped in the cage and fought for varies organizations in Kentucky, Illinois, and Missouri, he was one of the top fighters for 618 MMA which is one of the top ammy building organizations in the United States which brings in ammy fighters from Canada, Sweden as well as some of the top gyms in the United States.

Cole has not just beat the odds in the cage back in 2000 Cole was faced with the toughest fight anyone could ever face. He was fighting for his life. After a near tragic 3-wheeler accident Cole was air lifted to St Louis .Cole was left completely deaf in his right ear and with limited hearing in his left.Cole was riding a 3-wheeler along the rail road tracks in rural Du Quoin Illinois where he grew up  when the front brake locked and sent him head first into the tracks. Coles gums where split in half above his front teeth and he suffered hearing loss.

Cole has been able to adapt to his hearing loss and does not wear  any hearing device. Cole stated “sometimes people think I am ignoring them or not paying attention it makes it hard to listen to your corner men at times so I have to pay special attention in training and really know what to do. I don’t consider it a disadvantage at all. If anything it has helped me become more focused. I think God everyday that I survived and I am able to do what I love to do and that train and fight”

Cole has lived at The Hit Squad for year now and stated “It kind of feels like I am living a dream and I am waiting for someone to wake me up. I train with a great group of guys Matt Hughes, Robbie Lawler, Brian Foster, Kyle Watson and so many more. I have got to meet Eddie Bravo who is one of my idols it’s a little surreal I’m not just a fighter I am a huge fan of the sport”.

Cole has created a huge underground fan base and looks forward to his Strikeforce debut.” I love meeting people and having them tell me they love the way I fight. That is the ultimate pat on the back. And I plan on going out Dec 4^th and making Strikeforce a fan. They want fighters and I want fights, I don’t ever get into trash talking. I will promise you this I will lay it all on the line Dec 4^th losing is not an option and I guarantee when I look in the mirror on Dec 5^th there will be no regrets, there will be no I should of or wish I would of’s .I’m going to St Louis and I am going to do what I’m trained to do. And that’s fight”

Content provided by Dennis Cole

Cagecraze was live at 8 Seconds Saloon this Saturday night for Legends Of Fighting 42:  Smashing Pumpkins for some premier mixed martial arts action.  In action were local mma standouts Daniel Head, Matt Jaggers, and Orville Smith as well a slew of young up and coming prospects.

Amateur Card:

Josh Raney vs Kenny Day

Ranay comes out with some kicks and engages into a thai clinch but is put on his back and quickly mounted by Day who lands short shots from mount until referee Dave Stone is forced to step in and stop the fight.  Kenny Day wins via TKO ref stoppage at 1:00 in the first round.

Bryant Whitaker vs B.J Becker

Whitaker comes out the aggressor and lands a glancing super man punch and Becker looks to shoot.  Becker shoots a double leg takedown into the fence and is able to slam Whitaker to the canvas.  Whitaker is warned for an elbow to the back of the head.  Becker works inside Whitakers guard as he looks for a submission from his back.  Becker is able to pass to mount and takes the back to end the first round.  The second round begins with
Whitaker coming in but Becker is able to duck a punch and slam Whitaker with a body-lock takedown.  After ref Dave Stone stands them up Whitaker lands a leg kick but is rewarded with a takedown from Becker.  Becker finishes the round with some small shots from within the guard.  The third round starts with both fighters coming out timid but Becker comes in and is able to get a takedown against the cage and starts working from inside the guard once again.  After a triangle attempt from Whitaker, Becker is able to pass to north-south before being put back in guard before the end of the round.  The judges score it 30-27 unanimously for the winner B.J. Becker.

After a rather entertaining costume contest (won by Candice Clingerman) we get back to the fights!

Ed Croom vs Ryan Sheppard 205 lb title fight

Croom finishing Sheppard with a deep RNC

Croom comes out immediately looking for the takedown and gets Sheppard to the ground and works form half-guard.  Sheppard gives up his back to avoid damage and Croom softens him up with some small shots then locks up the rear naked choke to get the tap midway through the first round.  Croom wins via submission (rear naked choke) at 1:29 in round one.

Pro Card:

Brad Smith vs. Chris Camacho

Both fighters come out ready to swing with Camacho landing first and after a couple of missed exchanges Camacho gets a bear hug takedown against the cage. After a failed slam attempt and an accidental head-butt, referee Dave Stone administers a one point penalty for the foul.  The fight ends after the doctor doesn’t clear Smith after the foul and the fight is declared a disqualification.  Brad Smith is awarded the win by DQ at 1:09 in round 1.

Darnell Davis vs. Josh Burgess

Burgess immediately looks for the takedown but is met with a guillotine attempt from Davis.  Burgess presses Davis into the cage but is put to his back and mounted in the guillotine choke.  Burgess works his way free and re-guards.  Davis works hard body shots from within the guard.  Davis is able to posture up and land some hard punches that force Dave Stone to step in and call an in to the bout.  Davis is awarded the victory due to referee stoppage at 3:58 in the first round.

Matt Jaggers vs. Mark Neville

Neville comes out the aggressor landing first, Jaggers lands a hard body shot.  Jaggers misses a head kick and slips and Neville rushes him and lands a knee.  Jaggers lands a hard jab and shoots a double leg takedown and slams Neville to the mat.  Neville works elbows from inside the guard while Jaggers postures up and lands some hard punches along with some elbows that stun Neville.  Jaggers passes the guard and takes the back of Neville and lands heavy shots from the position that coax referee Dave Stone to step in and end the bout.  Matt Jaggers is awarded the victory by TKO referee stoppage at 2:56 in round 1.

Co-Main Event

Orville Smith vs. Jeremy Pender

Pender's finishing Armbar

Smith comes out looking for a takedown but is unsuccessful Smith starts connecting on his feet with some dirty boxing against the cage.  Smith picks up a single leg and slams Pender to the canvas and works from side control before he is put back into guard by Pender.  Smith works some heavy elbows from within the guard as Pender cuts the angle looking for an armbar attempt.  Pender locks up the armbar and after a long struggle is able to force Smith to his back and finish the armbar.  Pender wins via submission(armbar) at 4:41 in round one.

Main Event

Daniel Head vs. York Ash

Referee Dave Stone stops the bout

After an entertaining Sesame Street themed walkout dressed as Burt accompanied by Ernie, Dan Head enters the cage.  Head comes out and lands a leg kick early and York Ash works into the clinch.  After separating Head lands a perfectly timed head kick that lands flush with Ash’s orbital bone.  Ash returns the favor but his kick is caught and he is slammed to the ground and his guard his quickly passed.  Head transitions to mount and lands short elbows from the dominant position.  After several unanswered punches from both mount and rear mount referee Dave stone calls and end to the fight near the end of the first round.  Dan Head wins via TKO due to ref stoppage at 3:51.

Quick Results:

Amateurs:

Kenny Day defeated Joe Raney via Referee Stoppage due to Strikes in 1:00 of the 1^st Round

BJ Becker defeated Bryant Whitaker via Unanimous Decision  30-27

Ed Croom defeats Ryan Sheppard via Tapout due to Rear Naked Choke in 1:29 of the 1st Round

Professionals:

Bruce Pettis interviews Head after his win

Brad Smith  gets the win over Chris Camacho via Disqualification from head butt in 1:01 of the 1^st Round

Darnell Davis defeats Josh Burgess via Referee Stoppage due to Strikes in 3:58 of the 1^st Round

Matt Jaggers defeats Mark Neville via Referee Stoppage due to Strikes in 2:56 of the 1^st Round

Jeremy Pender defeats Orville Smith via Tapout due to Armbar in 4:41 of the 1^st Round

Dan Head defeats York Ash via Referee Stoppage due to Strikes in 3:51 of the 1^st Round

The Kokomo Event Center played host to Mark Slater’s “Colosseum Combat XV” this past Saturday, October 9, 2010.  Both amateur and professional mixed martial artists packed a stellar card.  Announcer Brady Davis began the night with a prayer adding class to the evening.  Subsequent to the prayer and National Anthem the action packed card commenced.

Amateur Card:

Austin Tweedy vs. Henry Goonen

Tweedy began the fight with a barrage of punches that left Goonen covering up.  Tweedy was able to recognize Goonen’s cover and shoot for a double leg takedown.  After Tweedy worked his ground and pound for a brief period, he let Goonen stand-up.  Goonen was able to use the stand-up to his advantage and land a big left, rocking Tweedy.  Tweedy responded by stepping back, shaking his head, and shooting in for yet another takedown.  While on the ground, Tweedy postured up from Goonen’s guard and threw a big, looping overhand right that connected with Goonen’s right eye.  Goonen was visibly hurt from the punch and was asked if he wished to continue from the referee.  Goonen responded by verbally conceding the match, thus giving Tweedy the victory.

Aaron Clark vs. Ryan Etter

Etter began the fight with a kick to obtain a feel for Clark’s range.  Clark responded with a shot that pinned Etter against the cage.  Clark was able to pass to half-guard, but only temporarily.  From guard, Etter was able to land a series of elbows and set-up an armbar.  Clark was able to slam Etter to escape the armbar and upset in the first round.

Round two began the same as the first with Etter “testing the waters” with a kick.  Unfortunately for him, he slipped and Clark bull rushed him.  Etter was able to maintain his composure and sink in a triangle.  Despite Clark’s best efforts, he was not able to escape.  Clark was forced to tap, giving Etter the victory.

Matt Perry vs. Clay Mundy

Perry Sinking in the finishing choke

As the fight began, respect for one another was evident.  Both spent a period feeling each other out.  Mundy was the first to initiate contact with a kick.  Perry responded with a double-leg takedown.  Perry was able to land an elbow that aided in his attempt to pass Mundy’s guard.  After the elbow, Mundy only temporarily relinquished half-guard to Perry.  As the round came to an end, Perry was able to land numerous shots from Mundy’s guard.

The second round of the bout began with Perry yet again shooting in on Mundy.  Mundy was able to catch Perry’s attempt and establish position on Perry (via underhooks).  While in a dominant position, Mundy was able to land a big shot on Perry that caused Perry to shoot.  Yet again, Mundy caught Perry’s shot and put him in a guillotine.  Perry was able to withstand Mundy’s submission attempt and cause Mundy to roll for a better position.  While Mundy rolled, Perry caught him and was able to take his back.  From Mundy’s back, Perry cinched in both of his hooks and was able to apply a rear-naked choke.  Mundy was unable to defend the choke, thus giving Perry the victory.

Jacob Hurlock vs. Dakota Kunkler

Seconds before the end of the round

Hurlock began the fight with two consecutive leg kicks and followed them up with a shot.  Hurlock was able to land in Kunkler’s half-guard.  From Kunkler’s half-guard, Hurlock postured up and landed consecutive shots.  With a fear the ref may stop the bout, Kunkler did everything he could to pull Hurlock back to him.  The two then sat in a stale mate, thus prompting the referee to stand them up.  Subsequent to the stand up, Hurlock clinched landing a knee to Kunkler’s groin.  The bout was then called to a halt to give Kunkler time to recover.  After the five minute break, Hurlock attempted a right kick to Kunkler’s head only to slip and fall to the mat.  Kunkler recognized the slip instantly and rushed towards his fallen opponent only to be met by an up-kick and the sound of the bell.

Round two began with Hurlock again taking Kunkler down.  After the takedown, the two fought for position with neither advancing.  The fight continued to be even until Kunkler was able to attempt an omoplata.  Hurlock was able to roll out of Kunkler’s submission attempt and land in side-mount.  From side-mount Hurlock landed a huge right that cut Kunkler.  This cut was ultimately the cause for the doctor stoppage at the end of round.

Jade McCammon vs. Matt Meyer

McCammon begins the fight with a shot that trapped Meyer against the cage.  While against the cage McCammon was able to land three huge blows that stunned Meyer.  After the blow, McCammon let Meyer back up only to hit another clean double leg takedown.  Round one completed as the two fought for position while on the mat.

Meyer was the aggressor as round two began.  He threw a kick that was caught by McCammon.  While standing and still holding on to Meyer’s leg, McCammon threw consecutive punches with each one landing.  After the barrage of punches, the fight went back to where the first finished.  McCammon was able to land shots from Meyer’s guard.  The punches eventually allowed McCammon to move to half-guard as the round finished.

The third and final round started with McCammon picking up right where he had finished the second round.  McCammon’s ground and pound proved to be too much for Meyer, as McCammon was awarded the win via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27).

Mike Eikenberry vs. Kenzey Scott

Eikenberry sinks in the finishing Von Flue Choke

Eikenberry opened the fight with back-to-back legs kicks and a bull rush that forced Scott to the cage.  While in the clinch (against the cage), Eikenberry landed a huge knee to Scott’s midsection that dropped him (Scott).  As the fight went to the mat, Eikenberry landed in half-guard and worked with instruction from his corner.  As the round came to an end, Scott was able to flip Eikenberry with an impressive attempt at a reverse triangle.

Eikenberry came out in the second round with a distinctive change in his attitude.  He moved directly to the clinch and took Scott back to the mat.  From side-mount Eikenberry was able to cinch in a Von Flue choke and award himself the victory.

Professional Card:

Darrell Smith vs. Bryan Neville

The fight began with a shot from Smith.  Neville attempted to escape Smith’s shot, but to his demise was pinned against the fence and slammed.  After the slam, Smith let Neville up and was able to lock on a muay thai clinch.  From the clinch, Smith landed numerous knees.  As Neville started to fall from the knees, Smith caught him and locked in a guillotine.  Neville was forced to tap as the guillotine was inescapable.

Later in the evening, Neville purposed to his girlfriend.  She said yes.  We at CageCraze.com wish them the best in the future.

Adam Brady vs. Ryan McIntosh

McIntosh with the finishing Triangle Choke

Brady’s game plan was apparent as he seemingly pulled McIntosh into his guard as the fight commenced.  Unfortunately for Brady, McIntosh landed in half-guard.  From there McIntosh was able to set up an armbar.  Brady was able to escape the armbar, but McIntosh transitioned right into a triangle choke.  The triangle proved to be too much for Brady as he was forced to submit.

Robbie Nieto vs. Casey Huffman

Both fighters began tentative, as both threw jabs to test distance and reaction.  Nieto threw the first strike that connected (leg kick), but Huffman’s straight right counter proved to be harder as Nieto was dropped to the canvas.  Nieto was able to regain his composure and get back to his feet.  Huffman followed his right with two consecutive kicks that echoed throughout the building.  Following the kicks, Huffman threw yet another kick, but this time to Nieto’s head.  The kick stunned Nieto, but he had no time to recover as Huffman followed with two huge rights.  The round ended with the momentum in Huffman’s corner.

Round two commenced with Huffman yet again dropping Nieto.  Huffman let Nieto stand back up and threw a knee that connected with Nieto’s groin.  Huffman was deducted a point for the groin shot after being warned in round one to watch his strike positioning.  After the five minutes that Nieto was awarded to recover, Nieto shot in only to be stuffed by Huffman.  After being stuffed, Nieto’s persistence (and heart) was shown as he was finally able to shoot and achieve a takedown.

Huffman worked one-two combos as round three began.  Huffman was able to land a big right that rocked Nieto.  Nieto’s only response was to shoot.  Huffman, again, stuffed Nieto’s shot, but this time was able to take Nieto down and land in side-mount.  From this position, Huffman set-up an arm triangle choke that forced Nieto to submit.

Minun Shaw Bradbury vs. Nick Kraus

Kraus begins with a shot, but is met with a knee from Bradbury.  Kraus was able to push through the knee un-phased and land in Bradbury’s guard.  Bradbury attempted a triangle multiple times, but was unsuccessful.  Kraus’ patience throughout Bradbury’s submission attempts paid off, as he was eventually able to pass Bradbury’s guard and sink in an arm triangle choke for the win.

Main Event

Dustin Neace vs. Joel Blanton

The hype behind the main-event was apparent as the crowd was in a constant roar from beginning to end.  The bout began with the ex-teammates feeling one another out and testing the distance with their jabs.  Blanton proved to be the aggressor as he led with a flurry of punches and an inside leg kick.  Blanton then faked another combination of punches and shot for a takedown.  From there, Blanton was able to pass to half-guard and then to side-mount.  Neace was eventually able to bring the fight back to the feet and let his hands go.  In attempt to avoid Neace’s flurry, Blanton shot, but was caught with a knee that knocked him to the mat.  Neace’s fight experience was shown as he pounced on Blanton and was relentless with his fists.  Neace’s flurry forced referee Don Clift to step-in and call a halt to the bout, therefore, giving Neace the technical knockout victory and the 145 championship belt.

Quick Results:

Amateur Bouts:

Austin Tweedy defeated Henry Goonen by verbal submission in 2:41 of the 1st round

Ryan Etter defeated Aaron Clark via Tapout due to Triangle Choke in 1:57 of the 2nd Round

Matt Perry defeated Clay Mundy via Tapout due to Rear Naked Choke in 2:00 of the 2nd Round

Jacob Hurlock defeated Dakota Kunkler via Doctor Stoppage in 0:00 of the 3rd Round

Jade McCammom defeats Matt Meyer via unanimous decision (30-27)

Mike Eikenberry defeated Kenzy Scott via Tapout due to Von Flue Choke in 1:27 of the 2nd Round

Pro Bouts:

Darrell Smith defeated Bryan Neville via Tapout due to Guillotine Choke in :-0:58 of the 1st Round

Ryan McIntosh defeated Adam Brady via Triangle Choke in 1:36 of the 1st Round

Casey Huffman defeated Robbie Nirto via Tapout due to Arm Triangle in 2:58 of the 3^rd Round

Nick Kraus defeated Minun Shaw Bradberry via Tapout due to Arm Triangle in 3:53 of the 1^st Round

Dustin Neace defeated Joal Blanton via Referee stoppage due to strikes in 3:43 of the 1^st Round

Saturday, October 2nd, Absolute Action MMA presented “Battle Against Breast Cancer.” This was the first all-female MMA card in Kentucky, with a portion of ticket sales benefiting the Pink Ribbon Girls breast cancer awareness organization. There was also a raffle and other merchandise being sold, all of the money went straight to the Pink Ribbon Girls. The promoter for the card was Parag Patel, matchmaking by Billy Donovan, and was sanctioned by the Kentucky Boxing & Wrestling Authority. CageCraze.com was on-site reporting LIVE RESULTS from Turfway Park in Florence, KY. With it being the first card of its kind in Kentucky, well-known popular fighter Kim Couture in the main event, and a special guest appearance by Strikeforce Ladies Middleweight Champion Cris “Cyborg” Santos, history was in the making! The card had 10 bouts including 3 pro fights. The recap:

We have a mostly-female officiating crew tonight. The judges will be Vanessa Bohleber-Higdon of Hardrock MMA, Amy Evans of Second 2 None Cagefighting, and Brandy Dick of HB Dick Promotions. Timekeeping duties will be performed by Angela Robertson, inspector for the Kentucky Boxing and Wrestling Authority. I’ve learned that the powers-that-be tried to fly in a female referee from California but unfortunately that fell through. Even the doctor was seen wearing pink scrubs tonight for the occasion. Early word is they’ll try to make this an annual event which I think is a great idea.

Don’t forget that if you couldn’t be here live for the card, the event will be airing on Fox Sports Net later this month! Cameras and commentators were in attendance with every winner getting a post fight interview inside the cage.

RESULTS:

Philippus tightens the choke

1. Samantha Ress (0-0) vs. Jessica Philippus (1-1)

And the first punches of the night are getting ready to be thrown as the ring announcer calls them in. The first round ring girls tonite are cancer survivors which is a great touch to this show.  Samantha looks tentative before we get going, while Jessica is jumping around and is obviously as ready as the fans to get this show started. Here we go… Jessica immediately clinches, but Samantha turns her around and puts her against the fence. Jessica transitions to her back and suplexes her to the delight of the crowd, landing in Samantha’s guard. Jessica moves to half guard and is pounding away. Samantha gives up her back while Jessica puts on a RNC. She has hooks in. Samantha doing a good job of keeping her chin down to prevent the choke but Jessica is being patient in waiting while maintaining position. Jessica lands a few punches and slips in the choke tighter. Samantha tries to escape but is ultimately forced to tap.

Jessica Philippus defeats Samantha Ress via RNC in Round 1

2. Amy Lack (0-0) vs. Katherine Joplin (0-0)

Big support for local Florence fighter Amy. The fight starts and Amy attacking wildly, swinging away. Katherine puts her against the fence to slow her down. Katherine executes a takedown but Amy gets right back up. Katherine has her against the fence again and takes her down again. Amy gets a front headlock and uses it to standup again.  She’s having trouble with the third takedown but gets it. She goes to mount. Crowd is getting restless for Amy. Amy trying to buck but is eating solid punches. Katherine may be expending her energy here however and is slowing down. Amy is patient but she can’t be too patient as the ref is taking a close look. Amy still bucking and nearly gets up as the crowd goes wild but Katherine keeps her down. The bell sounds and the crowd is relieved. Yours truly scores it 10-9 for Katherine.

Lack backs up Joplin with a kick

Round 2… Amy swinging hard again, loading up punches. Katherine goes to clinch again and tries for the double leg. Amy appears much stronger but Katherine’s technique is too good. Katherine gets the takedown but Amy uses a headlock to get up again. The crowd is really into this one. Katherine double legs her again. This round is looking like the same story as the first, with Katherine applying pressure and takedowns and Amy, while arguably doing more damage, is unable to prevent the trips. There’s a short stoppage by the referee as he warns Amy not to grab the fence. The crowd starts chanting Amy’s name during the pause. Now Katherine is throwing good punches of her own and Amy shows a helluva chin. Amy applies a school bully headlock again but doesn’t do much damage. Katherine has her against the fence again and is trying for double leg again. Amy not doing a good job of sprawling to prevent these as Katherine takes her down again but Amy stands up again. Another stoppage by the referee as he deducts a point from Amy for grabbing the fence. Reset to standup battle and Amy is landing good shots, maybe best of round. Par for the course as Katherine gets her against the cage again. The bell sounds. This is a great fight! Although Katherine is controlling the cage, she’s not able to do anything with her takedowns, and Amy is landing the most significant damage, thus after the point I see this 9-9, a draw round.

3rd round… Amy unleashing bombs, I don’t see how Katherine remains standing. Crowd is going nuts wanting a finish. Katherine gets her against the fence again and again Amy can’t prevent a takedown. Now Katherine transitions to side control. But Amy flips her over and is on top firing away. Katherine rolls again and now is on top with Amy sitting up against the fence. Amy gets a headlock and uses it to standup. Katherine keeps her close against the fence though but Amy is landing good knees. Amy tries for an arm-in guillotine but is unable to seal the deal. Katherine looks exhausted but Amy unable to take much advantage. Amy turns her around against the fence with the guillotine and is landing more good knees. Amy is landing good shots but needs a little more distance for the knockout power. Katherine is too tired to get any more takedowns it looks like. The bell sounds. I score this round 10-9 Amy, for a 28-28 draw. However this is definitely a difficult fight to score. Katherine was effective at cage control and takedowns, but was unable to do anything with the takedowns. Amy was the better striker and did more damage I believe. The decision comes in. Judge 1 scores it 29-29 draw.  Judges 2 and 3 score it 29-27 for Katherine and she wins a majority decision.

Katherine Joplin defeats Amy Lack via majority decision (29-29, 29-27, 29-27)

3. Diane Hooper (3-0) vs. Norma Rueda (0-0)

A determined Rueda works for side control

Round 2… Diane is breathing heavy with her mouth open. Norma using good feints and head movement to keep Diane off balance. Norma lands a good right hook while coming in for a takedown but can’t get the trip. She has her against the fence but Diane uses a headlock to prevent the fall. Diane’s face is showing signs of wear from round 1, maybe that was a 10-8 round by the looks of her. Back to circling and Norma is stalking her down but Diane landing good counter strikes. Norma not throwing much in the standup game much less landing anything. She gets Diane against the fence though and gets her down. Diane pulls guard and has wrist control. Both being patient. Diane landing more shots from the bottom than Norma from the top. Diane opening her guard and is controlling Norma well. The bell sounds and its a tough round to score. I’ll give it 10-9 to Diane for the effective striking, the most significant fighting of the round.

Norma Rueda defeats Diane Hooper via unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27, 30-27)

4. Kalilah Baker (2-3) vs, Brittany Johnson (0-0)

Kalilah looking relaxed before the fight while Brittany is a little more hyper. Brittany immediately goes to grapple. She tries to get Kalilah down but can’t. She has her against the fence but Kalilah spins her and starts throwing knees. Referee stops it for some reason. She’s slightly bleeding from the nose but I don’t see anything else. It’s not a dark red heavy flow like you would see in a broken nose typically and I don’t see anything obviously wrong with her anyway. Referee calls the doctor in? I’m assuming a broken nose but I’m surprised the referee stopped the action, much more that he called the doctor in. Doctor calls it off.

Kalilah Baker defeats Brittany Johnson via doctor stoppage in Round 1

Duke pummels her opponent

5. Jessamyn Duke (0-0) vs. Alexandria Stobbe (2-4)

Jessamyn appears to have a good size and reach advantage, she looks like an American Gladiator. Announcer says Alexandria’s record is 5-5, so my win-loss for her may be incorrect. They touch gloves and Jessamyn sticks to the center of the ring, I assume she’s a striker. Alex bull-rushes her for a takedown but Jessamyn rolls her over and winds up in a high mount position with one of Alexandria’s arms trapped. Jessamyn pounding away. Alexandria spins and gives up her back. Jessamyn has good position control, and gets a solid backmount with hooks. Trying for the RNC. This fight all Jessamyn so far. Alexandria’s cornermen yelling for her to protect her neck and she’s doing a good job of it. Jessamyn throwing a couple punches to soften her up for the choke. The referee stops it and Alex protests to no avail.

Jessamyn Duke defeats Alexandria Stobbe via referee stoppage in Round 1

6. Mackenzie Boggs (0-0) vs, Vanessa Denham (1-1)

Mackenzie  the local Florence girl but Vanessa is from Corbin so plenty of fans for both. I was right! As they touch gloves Mackenzie throws a kick! Vanessa eats a couple punches but gets her against a post, from there secures a take-down. Vanessa takes mount and pounds her out for a referee stoppage. Vanessa has a great, funny post fight interview as she seems star struck at the cameras.

Vanessa Denham defeats Mackenzie Boggs via referee stoppage in Round 1

Ellington and Cook engage early on

7. Erica Ellington (0-2) vs. Sarah Cook (0-0)

Erica is fighting out of Cincinnati and gets huge applause. Sarah from Hamilton, OH herself and has plenty of fans in attendance too. Erica is smiling and appears very confident. They tussle. Clinch and both jockey for position, exchanging knees. Erica gets her against the fence. Sarah is preventing the takedown while throwing knees. It’s quite obvious from the start Sarah is no cupcake. Sarah trying for a guillotine. Erica switches from takedown mode to protect-my-neck mode. She escapes. They go back to clinching and Erica trips her and lands in mount. Sarah eating punches and gives up her back. She takes a couple more shots and referee calls it. Okay. That’s it for me. Here I go. Because I wasn’t going to say anything earlier, but as a writer I gotta write what everyone is thinking. This referee may be babying these women. I don’t understand why he stopped Brittany earlier for nothing but a bloody nose, nor did I understand Alexandria’s early stoppage, nor do I understand this early stoppage. This has been a eventful card, can’t wait to see it on Fox Sports Net, can’t wait to see another Absolute Action MMA card, but I believe this referee may be treating these women differently than he would men.

Erica Ellington defeats Sarah Cook via referee stoppage in Round 1

8. Adrienne Seiber (0-0) vs, Heather Corder (1-1) PRO

Adrienne comes out first and looks like dynamite. She’s compact and ripped and has tree trunks of muscle for legs. Corder comes out second. Heather lands a kick early. Adrienne takes her down and tries for an anaconda. Corder is protecting well but gives up her back. Adrienne puts hooks in and stretches her out cleanly. Heather is turtling her head but is unable to do anything but defend. She spins and starts bucking. Adrienne landing shots. Heather spinning and defending but not doing anything else as Adrienne is landing unanswered blows. The referee stops it.

Adrienne Seiber defeats Heather Corder via referee stoppage in Round 1

Patti Lee submits LaVoy via armbar

9. Patti Lee (2-3) vs. Amanda LaVoy (0-1) PRO

Lee gets my vote for best tats of the night. Amanda looks skinny and fragile, but has the length I suppose. Lee is shorter and looks to pack some power. They start and Amanda is switching stances often. Lee gets her against the fence, double leg and they’re down. Amanda has butterfly guard but Lee is able to pass a leg. Lee is struggling to get past second leg but does so, now in mount. Has yet to do any damage but now has position to do so. Amanda trying to hold her close. She’s heel kicking/stopping Lee’s feet from the bottom, ouch. Lee is able to posture and throws punches. Amanda nearly slips out the back door but Lee keeps position. Lee puts on an arm triangle and moves to sidemount to finish it. Amanda punching Lee’s ribs, so she’s still okay. Amanda rolls backwards to escape but Lee is controlling her head still. Amanda finds a way to her feet but Lee rolls for a kimura. Lee fails with the kimura but transitions to an armbar and its over.

Patti Lee defeats Amanda LaVoy via submission (armbar) in Round 1

Jorge Gurgel translates for Cris "Cyborg" Santos

10. Kim Couture (2-3) vs. Felicia Wells (0-0) PRO

Cris “Cyborg” Santos is interviewed before the main event with Jorge Gurgel translating. Well, interviewed may be a strong word, the announcer asked a single question and that was it. Well, anyway, main event is up! Felicia comes in and she looks confident and relaxed. Big opportunity for her for sure.  Lots of cheers for the local girl Felicia. Kim comes out. Felicia has a 1000 yard stare. They start. Felicia isn’t afraid to trade! She’s throwing good punches and landing some! They clinch. Kim has her against the fence. Felicia latches on a tight guillotine and pulls guard. It looks tight! This may be close! Kim is trying desperately to pull an arm off and finally succeeds. She postures up. Felicia double upkicks her away and they stand again. Gotta be a confidence booster for Felicia so far! They stand. Now Felicia has her against the fence. Kim throwing dangerous looking elbows but Felicia not afraid to bang. Wild swinging! Kneeing! Elbows! Referee is raising the roof and crowd is going nuts. They clinch again. Felicia may be fading. Kim gets her against the cage. They trade knees. Kim has wrist control and is patient. She goes for a single leg and a big slam! But she winds up in Felicia’s guillotine again. Felicia sits up against the cage and thinks about wall walking but Kim is controlling her well. Kim has a dominant position but isn’t doing much, could she be gassed? Felicia is active, not just laying there, but can’t threaten much from her back. She kicks Kim away and we go back to the standup. Kim may be tired, her mouth is wide open and the look in her eyes as Felicia stood right back up and immediately started stalking her is priceless! Felicia came to win! They clinch and go down and Felicia is on top! Kim works rubber guard. Felicia needs to be careful, Kim’s guard looks dangerous. The round comes to a close. Felicia slow to stand now, but Kim even slower. I’m not sure Kim expected the awesome fight Felicia is putting out there.

Couture locks on the standing choke

Round 2. Between rounds Cris Cyborg came to corner Kim and offer advice, but someone warns her that’s not allowed if she’s not her corner and she’s escorted away. They start again. Felicia comes in and starts stalking again. Kim has a wild eyed grin on her face, everyone is enjoying this including her. They clinch, Kim goes to her back and gets a standing reverse arm-triangle choke. Felicia sits down. The referee is taking a close look. Felicia looks very limp. Felicia isn’t moving at all and looks like dead weight. The referee checks again, and Felicia is, in fact, unconscious, and probably was so for some time. Doc rushes in. Takes her a couple minutes to regain her bearings but she’s okay at my relief. Fantastic fight for Felicia, I’m sure everyone is extremely proud of her, but Couture takes this one tonight.

Kim Couture defeats Felicia Wells via submission (reverse arm-triangle choke) in Round 2

UFC 119 Prediction Hangover

Your boy is up for the second card in a row! I was correct in 3 of my 5 predictions, losing one via split decision, and losing another one that Yahoo Sports had scored 29-28 for my pick. So I was damn close at being 5 of 5. Of course, close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades. And I’m not sure about horseshoes, I’ve never been that bored to play it. If you had bet one billion dollars on each of my picks, you would have won 1.22 billion dollars. You’re welcome.

Melvin Guillard vs Jeremy Stephens

I had picked Stephens in this fight. It was definetly a close fight, with Guillard winning a split decision. I still believe betting Stephens as an underdog in this toss up fight was a good decision. You win some, you lose some, and sometimes the judges cost me money.

Evan Dunham vs Sean Sherk

I won this one on Sherk via split decision. Apparently the fans did not like the decision and agreed with the minority judge. Exposing a man’s skull in the first round doesn’t factor into their judging perhaps, but it did the officials.

Chris Lytle vs Matt Serra

I was surprised this fight didn’t win the second Fight of the Night prize instead of Sherk vs Dunham. Sherk and Dunham put on a good show, but I really enjoyed watching these two guys going toe to toe like they did. It also has the highlight of the night for me – if you still got it on the DVR, look up 4:30 of round 2 and watch Lytle knock out one of Serra’s teeth with an uppercut. Pretty sweet. I was right about something else in this fight, not just Lytle as a winner. Serra needs to drop to lightweight. Watch how Lytle has to bend over at the waist to be on his level. Looks like he’s fighting a hobbit. Love ya Serra, you got the heart of a lion and head of a statue, but fight at lightweight dude.

Rogerio Noguiera vs Ryan Bader

Well I lost this one. I picked Noguiera but Bader’s boxing was just as good, and his wrestling proved too much. My only real saving grace was Yahoo Sports scoring it 29-28 for Noguiera, so at least some believed it was at least close and I don’t regret my betting decision.

Frank Mir vs Mirko Cro Cop

Ugh what a disaster of a main event. Have you ever been so disappointed in a main event that ended in a knockout? Makes me worry that MMA may be going in boxing’s direction of a decision every major fight because the fighters are so cautious. Machida’s method is catching on I’m afraid. Hopefully I’m wrong.

Thanks for reading! I’ll be back for UFC 120 in a couple weeks, so stay tuned to CageCraze.com for all my fake news and predictions!