Next MMA Fighter

Shea Taylor decided to train to fight again after his left leg was amputated below the knee following a motorcycle accident in 2009. Now in 2011 Shea got his chance and met an undefeated Josh Cook at Wild Bill’s Fight Night 40 in Duluth, Ga. This amateur MMA meeting would last no more than 6 minutes but could further the ability of other amputees to fight in a sanctioned format forever.

As I sit ringside waiting for the fighters to be introduced, I am asked to scoot over to make room for a technician/engineer that uses a wireless laptop rig to monitor the vacuum pump holding Shea’s prosthetic to the rest of his natural leg. The house is packed and Josh, then Shea are introduced. Shea nods to his corner of trainers as well as to the pair of gentlemen on hand to keep tabs on his leg. The fight unfolds as follows:

Josh closes to clinch and maybe take it to the ground. Shea locks a guillotine but is slammed on his side and it’s a grappling match now. Josh is on top in half gard an tries to isolate an arm but switches quickly to a kneebar on his prosthetic leg! The fight is reset to standing after the leg is reaffixed. Shea closes with strikes and Josh drops for a takedown. Shea locks on a guillotine and Josh is forced to tap.

Josh graciously accepts the defeat and holds Shea’s hand up in victory. Here in Duluth we saw a milestone for amputee athletes and I am proud to have been a part of it.

We hope you didn’t miss this great night of fights in Duluth on Friday but if you did here’s the full wrap up:

Clayton Haley – Thunderhouse MMA vs Manuel Correa – Rodrigez MMA 147lbs

Clay throws a good combo that makes Manuel cover up and take a few body shots. Clay drops for a takedown and grabs a leg. Manuel holds him off for a minute but gets taken to the ground. Clay is on top in half guard and works to pass. Manuel sweeps him over into a front headlock. Manuel works some punches there and locks in a guillotine that looked tight. Clayton shakes him off and they scramble. Clay takes the back and leaps over for an armbar. Clay works for it till the time expires.

Round 2 Clayton lands a good leg kick and circles. Manuel returns with a jumping switch kick and misses. After a few seconds he tries again and gets taken down for his trouble. Clayton is on top in guard and works punches to the body in this amateur bout. Clayton is unable to pass and they trade body blows for the remainder of the round.

Round 3 Clayton circles and jabs. Manuel hasn’t hardly thrown a strike all fight. Clayton lands a leg kick. They clinch up a moment and Clayton lands a good right. Manel seems to recover quickly. They approach and trade some but Clayton is surely getting the better of the exchanges. Later in the round Clayton seems to wilt and Manuel has an opportunity to land some blows and take the round but can’t quite come up with enough.

Clayton Haley def Manuel Correa by unan. dec.

Cody Black – Gentry’s MMA vs Drew Moody – Full Throttle MMA 137lbs

Cody drops for a single leg quick and gets on top in half guard. Cody is able to pass to side control and tries to isolate an arm. Drew turns and tries to make space but Cody stays heavy on him. Cody is able to slip a leg over and gets the mount. Drew hooks a leg and gets it back in half guard. Cody attacks the neck for a choke as the round ends.

Round 2 Cody shoots for another takedown and they find themselves in a similar position. Cody works to pass and does to side control. Drew recomposes his guard and clamps down on Cody’s neck. The ref stands them up after some inactivity and Cody shoots for the takedown immediately. Drew puts up a high guard and forces Clody to pull back and up exposing an arm for Drew to work an armbar. Cody defends the armbar and finds himself nearly in a triangle. The round ends during that attempt.

Round 3 Drew nearly lands a head kick but gets taken down during his subsequent strike. Cody is in north-south on top, grabs a kimura, and moves to side control. Drew rolls over and turtles. Cody takes the back and works for a choke. Drew explodes and gets back to half guard momentarily. Cody passes to mount again and postures up for an armbar.

Cody Black def Drew Moody by unan. dec.

Tecia Torres – Knuckle Up vs Ivey Turner – Legacy Fight Club 118lbs

Tecia lands a body kick early and Ivey clears the distance to clinch up in the corner. Ivey works for a body lock to bring it to the ground. Tecia delivers some knees in the clinch and gets the neck for aguillotine. Tecia drags her to the ground and gets top position with the choke. Tecia tries to finish the choke bt Ivey escapes and gets on top in Tecia’s guard. Tecia puts up for an armbar and Ivey picks her up for 2 consecutive slams. Tecia tries for another armbar but Ivey stays on top until the round ends.

Tecia lands a big push kick in the first seconds. Ivey clinches up and walks Tecia to a friendly corner. Tecia tries to circle out and land knees but Ivey appears very strong. Tecia lands an unintentional knee to the head in this women’s amateur bout. Time back in and they clinch again quickly. Ivey lands the outside trip she’s been attempting but Tecia slips under and takes Ivey’s back. Tecis works for the choke on top and gets the tap after a few moments.

Tecia Torres def Ivey Turner by sub (RNC) 2:43 in rd. 2

Amika Olchovic – Grubel’s MMA vs Mary Matia – KBX Fitness 128lbs

Amika lands a push kick and solid jab early. Mary is a tank and takes the shots in stride. Mary hunkers down and machine guns strikes like she is accustomed to doing. Amika stays very busy in the clinch and keeps Mary from getting a rhythm. At range Amika has a very good jab and rocks Mary a time or two. Mary just keeps coming back but she’s getting struck more times and harder than I’ve seen in any of her fights.

Round 2 Mary keeps coming and tries to wear Amika out in the clinch. Amika lands a varied series of strikes and moves to evade. Amika slows down with kicks and really lowers the offensive output allowing Mary to machine gun her way to winning the round.

Mary backs Amika up to her corner and forces Amika to clinch with her as she delivers her trademark onslaught of punches. Amika gets some clinch work in to stymie the attack and they teeter back and forth with punches and clinch work. Tough fight to call with this last round being so close.

Mary Matia def Amika Olchovic by split dec.

Josh Cook – Chaotic Fitness vs Shea Taylor – Saraiva MMA 157lbs

Josh closes to clinch and maybe take it to the ground. Shea locks a guillotine but is slammed on his side and it’s a grappling match now. Josh is on top in half guard an tries to isolate an arm but switches quickly to a kneebar on his prosthetic leg! The fight is reset to standing after the leg is reaffixed. Shea closes with strikes and Josh drops for a takedown. Shea locks on a guillotine and Josh is forced to tap.

Shea Taylor def Josh Cook by sub (guillotine)

Stephen Upchurch – Knuckle Up vs Jake Pruitt – Legacy Fight Club 157lbs

Jake fights with open hands and throws big kicks and looping punches. Stephen closes and they trade a few shots. They land simultaneous hooks and stagger each other for a moment. Jake clinches up now and drives Stephen to the corner. Stephen turns him and drops for a double leg takedown getting the fight to the ground. Stephen is on top in the guard now and works to strike and pass. Jake is able to push Stephen off momentarily and Stephen goes to kicking the thighs of a downed Pruitt. Stephen drops to meet Jake on the ground and Jake turns to X-guard in an effort to sweep. Stephen pushes Jake head down to the mat and strikes until Jake presents the neck. Stephen locks in a guillotine and gets the tap for the victory.

Stephen Upchurch def Jake Pruitt by sub (guillotine) 3:20 in rd. 1.

Gerry Tena – Striker Fight Center vs Chris Cain – Fitness Edge MMA 144lbs

Gerry lands a stiff leg kick early and Chris shoots for a bodylock takedown. They scramble and exchange guillotine attempts quickly. Gerry is on the bottom now with Chris in side control. Gerry rolls him over and into his guard. Gerry works elbows from the bottom as Chris passes to side control and eventually the mount. Chris advances for an armbar and Gerry is able to roll with him and end up on top. They scramble, Gerry approaches and Chris goes for a leg lock. They jockey around for position and scramble again. These guys are all over the place. Chris is able to pass again all the way to north-south. Gerry turns to recompose his guard and Chris ends up on top in half guard. Gerry eats a big elbow and blasts up to sweep to top position. He lands a punch or two before the round ends.

Round 2 Gerry loads up a big punch and they close again. Chris drops low for a takedown and Gerry is able to sprawl effectively the first two times before he’s taken down. Gerry has Chris in his full guard now. Gerry has a butterfly hook in and as Chris moves out transitions to a nice armbar that gets really close. Chris defends and is back on top. Gerry turns for another smooth armbar attempt that ends in a triangle attempt. Chris defends really well by turning his body and ends in side control again. Chris passes to mount but only for a moment. Gerry moves him off but is mounted again quickly.

Round 3 Chris closes and Gerry hits an arm circle takedown to end in half guard on top for the first time this fight. He postures up and lands some hard punches and elbows. Chris turtles and Gery lands more strikes. Gerry rolls him over and attacks an arm for an armbar. Chris defends end is in Gerry’s guard. Gerry struggles to get top position, Chris tries an anaconda choke, misses, and gets Gerry’s back with one hook. Chris tries to seal an arm-triangle as the final bell rings.

Chris Cain def Gerry Tena by unan dec.

Andrew Higgins – Fusion MMA vs Jacob Hebeison – Iron Clutch Fitness 137lbs

Andrew has light step, very Dominic Cruz and circles Jacob with kicks. Jacob replies with a stiff shot of his own but goes back into defensive mode. Andrew stalks him across the ring with a combo, Jacob counters, and Andrew drops for a takedown. Jacob is able to stuff it and they circle around some more. Andrew goes for a flying knee and Jacob snatches him down to the ground. Andrew goes for a heel hook, Jacob a toe hold, and Jacob turns to land on top in Andrew’s half guard. They scramble to stand when Jacob grabs Andrews neck for a guillotine. Andrew survives and is in Jacob’s guard. Jacob is able to technical stnace up and end the round standing over Andrew landing elbows and solid punches.

Round 2 Jacob feints some and throws a hard right that gives Andrew pause. They trade some jabs and Jacob fires a takedown from 6 feet out landing a double leg takedown in his corner. Jacob postures up and lands a shot that makes a solid thud with Andrew’s head on the canvas. Jacob maneuvers between side control and north south to deliver more elbows. Andrew is taking a beating but uses his legs to defend himself. Jacob attempts a fight-finishing armbar that he misses by inches and Andrew finishes the round on top. A dominating round for Jacob.

Round 3 Jacob lands a stiff leg kick that slows Andrew down pretty good. Andrew is having a tough time finding his spot now and reaches with his punches. Jacob rushes in and lands another big takedown. Jacob maintains a high half guard and works more punches and elbows that are hurting Andrew, this could be stopped at any second. Aaaand a full minute of punishment later Andrew maintains his composure and gets guard, then works for a knee bar when Jacob gives up a leg. Jacob defends and gets back on top in the half guard he was able to deliver all that punishment from. Jacob hops up and works a far-side arm bar that turns into a kimura.

Jacob Hebeison def Andrew Higgins by sub (kimura) 4:41 in rd. 3.

Ronnie Rogers – HIT Squad vs Diego Saraiva – Saraiva MMA/Team Octopus 150lbs

Ronnie comes up and lands a few punches ending with a strong sweep. Ronnie leaves him on the ground and they get back to standing. Ronnie favors some leg kicks here, Diego hasn’t thrown much yet. Ronnie stalks Diego down and throws combos. They clinch up and Diego goes for a guillotine. Ronnie is able to pop his head out and stands over Diego. Ronnie lets him stand and they circle again. Diego lands a leg kick and Ronnie returns the favor. Ronnie tags Diego and he follows up with a combo. Diego taunts for more. Diego lands a solid body kick just as the first round ends.

Round 2 Diego backs up and when Ronnie lands a punch, Diego covers up to block a few, perhaps to wear Ronnie down. Ronnie gets 2 more chances like that but lands no major damage. Diego is kicking the body and legs. This seems to be an overall strategy to wear Ronnie down, enticing him to strike with taunts. Diego has had 2 failed takedowns this round so far, double legs that Ronnie is flat stuffing. Diego lands a right punch and high right round combo that momentarily staggers Ronnie. Diego pursues but Ronnie recovers quickly. Diego has certainly kept Ronnie guessing late in this round with oddly timed counters and covers up but Ronnie is seemingly outstriking Diego.

Round 3 Ronnie catches a kick and lands a right to put Diego down. Lots of showboating and taunting now that these guys are really hating on each other. Their strikes are similarly varied with straight punches and kicks to the body and legs. Diego seems fresher at this stage but we’re not seeing the urgency you’d expect from a guy that is probably losing the fight. Diego lands a stiff jab in the later minutes and Ronnie has taken to flashy kicks for the benefit of the judges and fans. Ronnie retreats straight back with his chin in the air which could be a problem if Diego moves forward enough. Diego gets another shot stuffed and weathers another 4 punch combo while covered up. Diego may now be landing more strikes but they appear to be about even. Diego has a failed takedown and upkicks from the ground. 10 seconds clack and the fight is over soon after.

Ronnie Rogers def Diego Saraiva by unan. dec.

NextMMAFighter was able to cover another great night of fights at Wild Bill’s in Duluth, Ga. The card, as laid out, provided some really interesting matchups and others that we know would lend themselves to some sparks. Check out the action here:

Stephen Coggins- Legacy Fight Club vs John Garcia – Team Octopus 137lbs

John rushes out like a bull but does not srike. They clinch up and Stephen drags the action to the ground. John is able to work back to full guard and Stephen works the body. John posted up for an armbar, Stephen avoided it but jumped right into a traingle attempt. John works the triangle from the bottom but is unable to complete. Stephen defends, rolls John over and takes the back. John turns into him and works some punches in the guard. They stand and approach once more. Stephen controls John’s neck in a clinch for the remainder of the round.

Round 2 John rushed out again and Stephen strikes. They lock up go to the ground with Stephen in John’s half guard. John recomposes his guard and Stephen works to pass. They get stood up and nearly land simultaneous haymakers. John seems to have clipped Stephen and gets the action to the ground. Stephen turtles and John takes the back. Stephen struggles to escape his position but John is able to sink in the Rear Naked Choke.

John Garcia def Stephen Coggins by sub (RNC) in rd. 2 2:14

Rusty Crowder – Defkon 1 vs Kevin Patton – Fusion MMA 136lbs

These guys size each other up to start. Kevin looses a leg kick followed by a flying switch kick. They scramble on the ground momenatirly and get back to standing. Rusty fires off a flurry and Kevin drops for a takedown. Rusty sprawls out nicely and they separate. They trade some low kicks although Rusty seems to be commanding the standup. Kevin drops for a takedown and ends in Rusty’s guard. Rusty had an arm locked up pretty well and was landing shots on Kevin’s face. Kevin got his arm free and rained down some blows form the top. The round ends with Kevin in Rusty’s guard.

ROund 2 Kevin throws a few kicks to set up another double leg takedown. Kevin has his arm trapped behind Rusty’s back and is getting a little punishment for it. Rusth has some active hips and puts up for an armbar. Kevin avoids it and lands some solid punches. Kevin postures up once or twice to land more punches whil Rusty tries to devn and find an opportunity to sweep. They end the round roughing each other up in the guard.

Round 3 Kevin is having trouble penetratin Rusty’s jabs and kicks. Rusty rushes forward and gives Kevin a chance to drop levels and get another takedown. Kevin works more punches from the top, opting to stand and punch as well as deliver blows from the guard. They trade back and forth for a bit and get stood up. Kevin lands a good push kick and follows with another takedown. The action slows and they get stood up for the last time. In the last 10 seconds Rusty unleashes a barrage of punches and they stand and trade for a full 5 seconds in an exciting finish.

Kevin Patton def Rusty Crowder by split dec.

Nick Beal – Striker Fight Center vs Gui Curry – Knuckle Up 156lbs

Gui throws a combo quick and clinches up for a takedown. Nick keeps his feet and tries for a body kick. Gui weathers the kick and gets a takedown. Gui lands in half guard and works to pass. Gui is able to pass to side control after pushing Nick’s leg down and stepping over. Gui works some punches but Nick returns some of his own from his back. Gui steps over to mount and Nick executes a nice slip to get him back to half guard. Gui passes again and throws punches from the mount when time expires.

Round 2 Nick throws a combo to keep Gui outside of his range but Gui persists and clinches up. Gui lands an outside trip and they are back to the ground. Gui passes to mount once more and throws punches. Nick turns to escape as best he can but Gui is heavy and sticky. Gui moves up to set up an armbar and Nick turns into him and gets top position. After 4:45 of controlled punishment from Gui, we see Nick unleash a round and a half of frustration and land some solid punches when the round ends.

Round 3 Gui shoots for a single early and Nick maintains his balance. Nick punches Gui down to the ground and Gui is laying it wait. Nick drops som punches but lets him stand. Gui tries 2 more takedowns but is stuffed and Nick let’s him stand. Gui looks tired and his takedowns are less effective. NIck stuffs another and lands some punches before he lets Gui up agains. Nick drops his shoulders for a leading left hook and barely misses. Gui rushes in for one last takedown he is unable to land before the fight ends. This is gonna be a tough one to score. Could easily be a draw.

Gui Curry def Nick Beal by majority dec.

Jose Tezanos – Hardcore Gym vs Joe Elmore – Hardknox/Gracie Barra 156lbs

They get after it fast but Jose lands a slightly illegal knee at the beginning. The fighters are ok and we get back to it. Jose cme to bang and they get after it. Joe regurns some shots and they grapple up. Jose drops for a double and gtes to the ground. Joe turns out and works Jose’s neck. Joe works hard for that guillotine but Jose pops out. They scramble and Joe gets a neck again. JOse picks him up to slam and Joe rolls him over. They scramble and Joe finds the neck again. Jose gets on top and pops his head out. These guys love a formula. Jose is on top and working some position but looks to have poked an eye. Jose denies it but Joe is upset. The tension is palpable. Joe kicks Jose’s legs out and catches the neck again on the way down. Jose finds daylight once more and he’s back on top. Jose postures up and works punches to a down Elmore. Joe moves a lot and misses most of the damage as the round ends.

JOe lands a huge pushkick early in this round and follows with a roundhouse that misses. Jose pushes forward and gets a takedown. They find themselves in a familiar Elmore half guard. Jose works some body shots and elbows. Joe creates some space and spins out. They trade some knees and Joe drops for a takedown of his own. They scramble for position and Joe goes for a triangle Jose turns and loosens a leg to stay out of trouble and passing to side control. Joe pushes Jose off and goes for a triangle and transitions to an omoplata. Jose defends the omaplata ang goes back to Joes guard. Joe did a lot of work off his back, maybe more than I’ve seen him do in any of his other fights. Hard round to score.

Round 3 Joe starts picking Jose apart with big punch combos. Well not really combos but a series of hard thrown unansswered punches. JOse has his nhands down and is tired. Joe is hunting for a KO here. Joe’s got strong push kicks that are taking the last wind out of Jose here. Joe works the body with two big rights and a solid kick. Jose fires a lazy takedown and gets his back taken. Joe works him with punches and knees for the remainder of the round.

Joe Elmore def Jose Tezanos by majority dec.

Bryan Goldsby – Rush MMA vs Ronnie Rogers – Hit Squad 155lbs

Bryan is using his footwork and speed to keep range but drops for a takedown when Ronnie closed the distance. Bryan’s length might be a problem for Ronnie as we go on. They both drop for a takedown and Ronnie locks up a neck quickly. Bryan shifts and changes his posture to get some relief but after a few moments he looks to tap.

Ronnie Rogers def Bryan Goldsby by sub (guillotine) in rd. 1:15

Scott Farhat – Striker Fight Center vs Byron Bloodworth – Iron Clutch Fit/ATT Atl 135lbs

Byron feints a front kick and lands a glancing switch knee. Byron clinches up and they move to the corner. Scott works some inside punches and uppercuts while Byron presses him into the corner looking for an openning to strike. The ref splits em up and we get back to standup. Byron feints a takedown tht Scott bits hard on. Scott lands a short hook on the way out and Byron leaps into him with another switch knee. Byron is landing the more technical strikes and Scott counters with a rush of strikes. They clinch up after some strikes and resume the corner. Scott lands some big body shots as the round ends.

Round 2 Byron lands a leg kick and solid body kick to start the series. Scott answers with a leg kick. Byron backs up and lands that jumping switch knee that knocks Scott out cold.

Byron Bloodworth def Scott Farhat by KO in rd 2

Friday 26 August 2011
Buckhead Theatre, Atlanta, Georgia, United States
commission: Georgia Boxing Commission
promoters: Shea Bailey (Shea Bailey Promotions) / Greg Barckhoff (Sports Fan Properties)
tickets: 770-641-1054
			division	boxer	W-L-D		opponent	W-L-D
			lightweight	John Trigg	18(6)-36(7)-5	SC	Rohan Wilson	5(1)-4(2)-1
	bout subject to change & commission approval
			super middleweight	Darnell Boone	18(7)-17(2)-3	SC	Marcus Don Hall	11(4)-6(3)-0
	bout subject to change & commission approval
			light welterweight	Joshua Fountain	debut	SC	Frank Davis	0(0)-1(1)-0
	bout subject to change & commission approval
			light welterweight	Jackie Breitenstein	6(5)-0(0)-0	SC	Brenda Rodriguez	1(1)-6(0)-0
	bout subject to change & commission approval
			welterweight	Jesus Tavera	1(1)-1(0)-0	SC	Darrell Jones	2(1)-7(3)-1
	bout subject to change & commission approval
				Cesar Busurta	0(0)-1(0)-0	SC	George Hayes	debut
	bout subject to change & commission approval
			cruiserweight	Tobias Rice	3(2)-3(1)-0	SC	Clinton Hester	1(1)-3(2)-1
	bout subject to change & commission approval
			heavyweight	DJ Hughley	1(0)-2(2)-0	SC	Justin Wayne Ledet	debut
	bout subject to change & commission approval
				Tracy Johnson	debut	SC	Terry Carter	debut
	bout subject to change & commission approval

PRO MMA

JUST ADDED: Ronnie "Bam Bam" Rogers vs Bryan Goldsby

***Scott Farhat (Striker Fight Center) vs Byron Bloodworth (Iron Clutch 

Fitness): 139 lbs

***Joe Elmore (HardKnox MMA) vs Jose Tezanos (The HardCore Gym): 157 lbs

Advanced Amateur

***Rusty Crowder (Defkon1) vs Kevin Patton (Fusion MMA): 137 lbs

***Nick Beal (Striker Fight Center) vs Gui Curry (Knuckle Up Fitness): 157 

Lbs
***Erik Smith (Gruebel’s MMA) vs Lionel Jones (Iron Clutch Fitness): 207 lbs

Amateur

***John Garcia (Saraiva MMA)vs Stephen Coggins (Legacy Fight Club): 137 lbs

Will you be at Center Stage Atlanta this friday for some awesome fights?

NextMMAFighter.com will be on hand for more exciting MMA action in Duluth:

Diego Saraiva, a staple at Wild Bill’s and one of the Southeast’s most exciting fighters, takes on Ronnie Rogers in the main event. Rogers earned his spot by defeating a standout from ATT Atlanta in the last Wild Bill’s fights.

Will Kuhn, a ferocious fighter known for his slams and knockouts, will take on his toughest test in Louisville’s Joe Heink.

Four cross town rivals will go at it in Striker’s Gerry Tena vs Ascension’s Chase Thomas and ATT Atlanta’s John Puerta vs Full Throttle’s Jesse Wable.

Byron Bloodworth of Iron Clutch Fitness will take on the Dominican Republic’s Jose Tezanos and HardCore Gym’s Jerrid Burke vs North Carolina’s Brian Keller.

On the amateur side, KBX Gym’s Mary Matia returns to the ring versus Unit 2′s Ashley Connor in an exciting muay thai matchup for two very experienced female fighters.

Tickets can be purchased at all Ticketmaster locations or by CLICKING HERE. More info is available at www.FullThrottleMMA.com or www.UndisputedProductions.com.

Add the Wild Bill’s Fight Night page on facebook for your chance to win free tickets all week long!

FULL FIGHT CARD
PRO MMA
Diego Saraiva (Saraiva MMA) vs Ronnie Rogers (HIT Squad): 150 lbs
Will Kuhn (X3 Sports) vs Joe Heink (Haycraft MMA): 172 lbs
Byron Bloodworth (Iron Clutch Fitness) vs Jose Tezanos (All Star Vale Tudo): 147 lbs
Gerry Tena (Striker Fight Center) vs Chase Thomas (Ascension MMA): 147 lbs
Jerrid Burke (The HardCore Gym) vs Brian Keller (Team Renegade): 157 lbs
John Puerta (ATT Atlanta) vs Jesse Wable (Full Throttle Fitness): 135 lbs

ADVANCED AMATEUR MMA
Gui Curry (Knuckle Up Fitness) vs Kris Boyd (The HardCore Gym): 157 lbs

AMATEUR MMA
Jordan Moore (Chaotic Fitness) vs Jeff Randall (The HardCore Gym): 157 lbs
Chris Gibbs (Knuckle Up Fitness) vs Joey Edwards (Slaughter House MMA): 185 lbs

AMATEUR MUAY THAI
Mary Matia (KBX Gym) vs Ashley Connor (Unit 2 Fitness): 125 lbs

We covered yet another great night of fights at Wild Bill’s in Duluth and saw some fast paced action. Let’s get to it:

Brandon Gordon, Tru Alliance vs Marquis Murphy, Fusion MMA – 150lbs

Brandon leaps with a jump kick and the close in the corner. Marquis jabs out and Brandon goes low for a double. Marquis
stuffs him and works for a guillotine. Brandon slams him down and Marquis throws legs up for an armbar. Brandon slams him
another time or two but Marquis holds on. Brandon tries to stack him but Marquis indicates his eye has been struck. The
doctor doesn’t allow Marquis to continue.

Brandon Gordon vs Marquis Murphy – No Contest

Rob Tate, Team Renegade vs Nick Beal, Striker Fight Center – 155lbs

Nick does a good job of stuffing Rob’s early takedowns and reversing him to the ground. Nick ends up in side control and
works to isolate a limb. Nick is able to creep up and get the mount. Nick maintains top position and rains down blows to
Rob’s head. After about 30 seconds of punishment, Nick pops a slick armbar.

Nick Beal def Rob Tate by sub. (armbar) in rd. 1 2:02

Rachel Seltzer, Knuckle Up vs Erica Taylor, Force One Kickboxing – 122lbs

Erica drives straight in with a jab and Rachel locks a strong cilnch to deliver knes to the body. Erica is able to disengage
and back up with some jabs but Rachel grabs her right back in that clinch. They separate again and Rachel is getting the
better of the exchanges with jab-straight combos.

Round 2 Erica is able to land a few punches early but gets clinched up again. Rachel gets Erica into som trouble when she
lands a push kick and 1-2 combo to follow. Erica backs up to deliver some strikes but Rachel has her timed well and counters
with combos. Erica initiates a clinch and Rachel is able to reverse it and trip Erica to the ground.

Round 3 Rachel opens up early and lands a few good shots. Erica employs some kicks from range but Rachel counters and
clinches for some more knees. Erica remains onthe offensive and has Rachel backpeddaling around the ring. Rachel lands a big
right that staggers Erica just before the end of the fight.

Rachel Seltzer def Erica Taylor by unan. dec.

Lawrence Dennis, Team Renegade vs Cody Maiden, Striker Fight Center – 147lbs

Lawrence has some slick feet and wants to strike they trade some leg kicks and missing head kicks. Lawrence has some fast
hands and Cody is struck a few times. Cody misses a head kick, spins and shoots a double-leg takedown. Lawrence has an active
guard and wants to sweep or isolate an arm. Cody does a good job of keeping his posture and not getting swept. Cody is able
to break Lawrences guard and hop over to side control. They trade some submission attempts and scramble for a second.
Lawrence sweeps Cody and ends in Cody’s guard.

Round 2 Cody lands a big leg kick early on and leaps on Lawrence for a submission attempt. Lawrence defends the armbar well
and they let each other up. Lawrence approaches with a punch combo and Cody ducks under for another takedown. Lawrence sweeps
to mount and works for an Ezekiel choke when he’s swept himself. Lawrence tries to sweep again and overcommits letting Cody
get his back. Cody works for an RNC as the round closes.

Round 3 Cody throws some kicks high and low while Lawrence defers to punches. Cody closes for a takedown but Lawrence lands
on top in Cody’s guard. Lawrence gets to standing and is able to land a few good punches. Cody throws a spinning backfist
followed by a headkick that glances off Lawrence’s head. Cody goes for a hip toss but gets his back taken in the process.
Cody turns and is mounted. Cody turns to hip escape but Lawrence rides him.

Cody Maiden def Lawrence Dennis by unan. dec.

Joey Carroll, Team Renegade vs Napoleon Etienne, Rodriguez MMA – 157lbs

Napoleon keeps a relaxed leaned back stance and it proves disastrous when he throws a kick and misses. Napoleon falls back
and scoots to the edge of the ring trying to stand. Joey is a purple belt and works some punches from the top. Napoleon is
able to stand momentarily and JOey gets him right back down. Joey has favorable position momentarily and attempts a triangle
that Napoleon defends. They stand up and Joe closes for another takedown. Napoleon is able to close guard and keep Joey at
bay. Napolean raises a high guard and Joey is able to pass to side control and finally to mount. Joey attempts an armbar
quickly, Napoleon hops over and defends. They get to standing and Napoleon lands few stiff punches. Joey changes levels again
and takes Napoleon down. Joey finds a guiolltine and leans back, Napoleon pops his head out and delivers some GnP in Joey’s
guard.

Round 2 Napoleon lands some shots early and seems to have Joey hurt. Joey shoots for a single and overcommits. Napoleon takes
the back, tucked in the corner, and locks on a Rear Naked Choke.

Napoleon Etienne def Joey Carroll by sub. (RNC) in rd. 2 0:28

Ronnie Rogers, HIT Squad vs Marciel Rosa, ATT Atlanta – 147lbs

Marciel has a quick snapping jab but lands a stunning head kick early on. Ronnie just takes it and rushes in to clinch.
Marciel jumps guard and they go to the ground. Marciel opens the guard a bit but Ronnie keeps his position and lands some
punches. They stand and Ronnie shows he is a tenacious brawler. Ronnie backs Marciel into the corner and presses him for
better position, Marciel drops levels and goes for a takedown. Ronnie defends, Marciel attempts a guillotine and jumps guard.
Ronnie is able to keep from getting subbed and rolls Marciel over. They stand and clinch some more. The ref separates them
and they exchange a few blows. Ronnie backs Marciel up and gets him on the ground. Ronnie works some punches from top
position in the guard. Inthe final moments of the round Marciel went for an armbar that Ronnie defends and reverses to take
Marciel’s back.

Round 2 Ronnie works his way inside and throws some hooks before he secures a big slam tot he mat. Ronnie works a guillotine
from half guard and passes to mount. Ronnie drops DEVASTATING elbows onto Marciel’s guard repeatedly and the ref must step
in.

Ronnie Rogers def Marciel Rosa by TKO in rd. 2 1:12

John Richard, Team Revolution vs Tex Johnson, Defkon1/Alliance – 205lbs

John looks like he wants to load up a huge left hand and Tex dodges it. Tex jumps for a flying ambar that gets real close to
being secured. Tex transitions to an omoplata, then triangle. Many elbows have been exchanged in the scuffle and there’s a
lot of blood. John finds top position in side control and is working for a crucifix position. Tex spins from the bottom and
gets to guard. The ref stands em up to check a cut on John’s head. They restart in the same position, John lands a stiff
elbow after the restart but Tex keeps his composure. John rears back for more big elbows. Tex elbows the mouthpiece out of
john’s mouth but John keeps leaning back and trying big big elbows. Tex goes for an x-guard sweep but John rides it out.

Round 2 John looks a little tired and Tex is spry and hoppy. Tex lands a big leg kick and follows with a flying knee that
almost sends him out of the ring. Tex attempts another but is caught in the air and slammed down. Tex leans over for the x-
guard again but gets drilled by John. Tex does a little better at controlling John’s posture while delivering some elbows to
the head but is keeping the guard closed for the most part. Tex attempts an crisp armbar but John is able to defend it in th
last moments. Tex looks stymied and looks to his corner for his advice. They call for him to open his guard but he refuses to
do so. Tex leans back and delivers some vicious elbows from his back and lands one flush enough to hurt John badly enough to
stun him. From his back, Tex delivers more punches and elbows until the ref is forced to put a stop to the action.

Tex Johnson def John Richard by TKO in rd. 2

This could be the single greatest night of fights we’ve ever attended. Lots of great fast-paced action and it just kept coming.

Nick Poythress vs Robert Shonfelt: 182 lbs

Nick attacks with punches, Robert drops levels and goes for a double-leg takedown. Nick has Robert in a guillotine but Robert is able to cross his body and improve his position dramatically. They scramble for a moment and Robert is able to switch to Nick’s back. They see-saw battle from back position and guard for a minute or so and Nick is able to finally stand up. Nick nearly lands a KO punch and Robert drops levels again. Robert drives Nick through the ropes and they take a moment to reset them. Final seconds of the round had Nick reverse Robert and get mount while working a guillotine.

Round 2 Nick wants to keep it standing, and throws some probing jabs, Robert changes levels again and tries to body lock and trip Nick. Robert is able to get Nick to the ground and take his back again. Robert works for a rear naked choke, but Nick is able to explode over and get in Roberts guard pressed tightly in a corner. The ref stands them after they are unable to progress. Robert shoots for a takedown immediately and Nick is able to successfully sprawl out. Nick attempts a guillotine and mount before time expires.

Round 3 Robert launches a headkick before his takedown attempt. Nick defends by attempting to roll him over with a guillotine. Robert nearly gets top position, Nick grabs a single leg and drives him onto his back. Nick gets a little too high and Robert is able to sweep him to his back. Robert works for a choke for a minute when Nick explodes out again and the fight ends with Nick in Robert’s guard.

Robert Shonfelt def Nick Poythress by unan. dec.

TJ Harris vs Travis Knight: 142 lbs

Travis lands some stiff kicks to the legs and one glancing head kick on TJ. Travis even does a little showboating and these guys are going at it. TJ misses a headkick and Travis picks a single-leg and drives him to the ground. Travis gets the mount and rains down blows. TJ explodes over but Travis grabs and arm and locks in a tight armbar. TJ has rubber arms because he bends at odd angles and manages to cartwheel over to escape the armbar. Travis ends up in top position and they are reset after some time against the ropes. They finish the round clinching with TJ landing some solid knees to the gut.

TJ pops Travis in the nose quick and they have a laugh about it. TJ executes a leg-kick straight-right combo that drops Travis. TJ works on top and they are reset again as they almost fall out of the ring. Standing, TJ lands some good strikes with many limbs. Travis hits autopilot and bodylock drives TJ to the ground. Travis work some strikes on top but TJ attempts a few submissions from his back. They end the round in that position.

Round 3 Travis initiates a takedowna again. When he can’t complete the single, he picks TJ up and drops him on his back. Travis works tirelessly to land flush strikes, but TJ is defending and moving on his back. after tons of pressure, TJ is able to put up a triangle. He is unable to sub Travis and they nearly roll out of the ring again. The ref is forced to reset them and they trade a pair of blows just before the end of the fight. This could have the makings for fight of the year already.

Travis Knight def TJ Harris by split dec.

Anthony Cooper vs Jeremy Wallace: 187 lbs

Jeremy lands a jab to start and drops for a double leg takedown. Jeremy pushes Anthony all the way to his corner and starts delivering some punishment. Jeremy is about to get side control and nearly take the back. Anthony escapes and gets on top of Jeremy only for a moment before Jeremy is able to sweep him back to guard. Jeremy postures up and lands some punches to Anthony’s head. Jeremy launches an assault in the final seconds of the round and they both walk back to their corners bloody.

Round 2 Jeremy lands a big straight right and a nice headkick. Anthony recovers momentarily and shoots for a takedown that sends Jeremy out of the ring. Very dangerous situation. Jeremy is given a few minutes to recover from potential damage from the fall and they are ready to continue. Jeremy attempts a takedown and Anthony is able to sprawl and clinch to deliver some knees. They clinch and work for takedowns that give varying results. Jeremy is able to get on top finally but just before the round ends.

Round 3 Jeremy lands a big swatting overhand right early. Anthony returns with some strikes that do not land and the end up in Jeremy’s corner with Jeremy pressing into Anthony. Anthony turns the tables momentarily but his strength is waning and Jeremy stays on top the rest of the round.

Jeremy Wallace def Anthony Cooper by unan. dec.

Kris Boyd vs DJ Cook: 157 lbs

DJ has a head kick blocked early on and Kris returns with a barrage that ends in a secured takedown. Kris works him over to his corner and gets to work attacking the head. Kris works to improve position but DJ manages to get out and stand. They trade some strikes standing and Kris secures another takedown culminating in a full mount and rains down blows to the head until the end of the round.

Round 2 Kris counters with huge right. DJ comes back with some wild punches and they put each other in some trouble. Kris drops levels and brings it to the ground once more. DJ scrambles and stands, Kris takes him down again. DJ attempts a loose armbar and Kris is back on him working to pass his guard. DJ throws up another armbar attempt, Kris defends and lands a couple stiff shots to DJ on the ground.

Round 3 The fighters come to center and miss a few strikes, Kris bowls into DJ and gets him on the ground. DJ getting stacked hard and Kris continues to deliver punishment int he form of punches to the head. The ref sees enough after repeated strikes and calls a stop.

Kris Boyd def DJ Cook by TKO 2:27 in rd. 3

Scott Farhat vs Andre Allen: 137 lbs

Tentative start for these guys. A lot of respect for each other. Andre attacks and lands a few shots, Scott quickly goes for a bodylock and takes it to the ground. Andre sets up a triangle but Scott is able to use it to pass. Scot progresses to mount and fires off some short elbows before he postures up for some big shots. They get pushed out of the ropes some and the ref resets them standing in the ring. Scott found some confidence here and is landing some good jabs. Andre hasn’t landed anythign of note after teh ground work. Late in the round Andre turns the heat up a little bit. Scott returns with some big swinging punches and body locks again taking the fight to the ground. Andre worked to stand just before the bell rang.

Both fighters work to land some shots here in the 2nd. Neither is able to land anything flush, Andre misses a kick and falls, Scott punches and they scramble for 15 seconds or so. Scott gets in full mount and starts landing some big shots. Andrew is able to sweep into Scott’s guard and works a little GnP from there. The ref stands them up after some inactivity. Andre looks a little more comfortable on the feet and is pressing the action but not landing anything. Andre’s patience pays off after a while and lands a couple stiff straight shots. Scott takes some punishment but is able to secure another takedown. Andrew gets up but is quickly taken down again as the round closes.

Round 3 Scott throws some leg kicks and Andre is just taking them. It looks like Andre might be slowplaying for an opportunity to knock Scott out with a quick combo. Scott is very smart about his range and counters keeping Andre from mounting a significant offense. Scott is answering everything Andre is sending. Scott keeps circling and keeping out of range. Andre does close for another combo and Scott takes him down.

Scott Farhat def Andre Allen by unan. dec.

Dymond Jones vs Steve Hall

These guys are fighting fast. Dymond is a big boy and tries to clinch and knee at every opportunity. Steve is an accomplished striker and tenacious with his attacks. Steve lands several unanswered leg kicks but takes some knees in the clinch when Dymond closes. Dymond lands some strikes in the corner and Steve scrambles to answer. Steve drives with crosses and hooks that barely land. Dymond drops his hands and turns but they clinch while the time expires.

Round 2 Steve lands more leg kicks to set up some punches. Dymond clinches for some knees and trips Steve from the clinch. Both fighters seem to be tiring but Steve continues to push forward. They circle each other and take single shots until the round ends.

Round 3 Steve is on the attack but Dymond lands a good body kick. Steve finds a little success wtih a hook cross combo but Dymond lands another good body kick. They finish the fight with plenty of strikes exchanged. Dymond may have edged it out with some of these exchanges but Steve landed a lot of unanswered strikes in 2 and 3.

Dymond Jones def Steve hall by unan. dec.

Scott Barrett vs Kevin Brooks: 265 lbs

Scott approaches carefully shoots when he gets in close enough. Kevin jumps guard and takes some punishment from Scott. Kevin appears to have rolled out of the ring and gets a point deducted. They get reset standing and Scott shoots another takedown ending in a big slam. Scott is in Kevin’s half-guard delivering some hammerfists and short elbows. Scott passes to side control and establishes a crucifix position. Scott lands a handful of hard elbows before a stop is put to the fight.

Scott Barrett def Kevin Brooks by TKO 3:05 in rd. 1

John Quieroz vs Lawson McClure: 145 lbs

John gets a takedown early and they scramble on the ground some. John nearly takes the back and Lawson escapes to standing. They clinch for a moment and Lawson lands some good knees. John has some good crisp takedowns and dirty boxing on the inside. Lawson is throwing with bad intentions and really wants to work the clinch for knees. They trade some shots in the pocket and then a few more. Lawson’s mouthpiece comes flying out but is quickly retrieved. John takes a few shots but gives just as good as he got. No one is doing the chicken dance yet but we can see this won’t go the distance. John is working to take the back but Lawson is giving him little room to work at the ropes. Lawson gets back to standing and they box some more. John lands a big right and a big left that put Lawson on the ground. John closes to finish the fight but the round ends.

Round 2 John closes with rights and lefts and ends with a takedown attempt that Lawson defends. Lawson clinches and works some knees. John backs off and they trade some punches. They clinch some more and Lawson is able to land some more knees. This is becoming a battle of attrition as both guys are able to land shots and wear each other down. Lawson lands a good punch/knee combo and John takes a desperate shot to get it to the ground. Lawson defends the initial takedown but is slammed back to the ground again. John works to pass and delivers some punishment from the back as time expires.

Round 3 John is ok to box to start and takes a shot. Lawson defends and lands some big shots with knees in the clinch. John looks to be cut and the doctor is judging the severity. The cut looks to be severe enough for the fight to be brought to a close.

Lawson McClure def John Quieroz by TKO (ref stoppage due to a cut) 0:58 in rd. 3

This would have been a session to watch.

Gunnar Nelson vs GSP

More here: Pics of Gunnar and GSP

Don’t get me wrong. He’s a big ripped dude, really funny, easy on the eyes and all that. But I’m not sure I’d pay for a gym membership to check out his weener everyday.