Next MMA Fighter

Thanks go to Eric Bullock for covering this fight.

It was a chilly night of fights on the 1st of October at the Masquerade Music Park. Fight Party had a card stacked with talent from top to bottom, which included two title fights. Here is how I saw the action.

Marquez Jackson – X3 vs Rafael George – HardKnox

George starts the round with a takedown and lands in side control. Jackson pulls George into his half guard; they scoot to the cage and move to the standing position. Jackson lands some knees to George’s body and George takes him down. Jackson works a kimura to an armbar. George rolls out on top of Jackson and the round ends.

Round 2 George delivers several kicks and Jackson answers with a knee and a few punches. George gets a single leg takedown and punishes Jackson with some ground and pound. Jackson’s triangle attempt was stopped and George goes for the armbar. Jackson sweeps and lands in George’s half guard. Jackson moves to George’s back and goes for the rear naked choke. George rolls and is now facing Jackson in his full guard. Some more ground and pound from George ends the round.

Round 3 George goes for a single leg takedown and presses Jackson into the cage. Jackson punches George in the face to stop the takedown and lands a few knees to the body. Jackson is fired up and George shoots a double leg takedown. Jackson traps George in his half guard as they move to the cage. Some knees to the body of Jackson and they are standing again. George goes for the single against the cage and they go to the ground. Jackson attempts to lock in a guillotine as the bell rings.

Marquez Jackson def Rafael George by split decision

Maurice Jones – USMC/Guerrilla Fitness vs Jeremy Thurman

A leg kick from Jones and an answering jab from Thurman begin the round. Jones delivers some knees and they break and trade. Jones lands a leg kick and Thurman returns with a jab. There is a possible low blow from Thurman and Jones is looking for some help from the ref as Thurman presses him to the cage with punches. They move to the center of the cage and a kick to the midsection of Thurman sends him to the ground where Jones hits him with a strong left. Thurman attempts a single and Jones takes Thurman to the ground.

Round 2 Jones lands a big kick and Thurman takes him to the ground but lands in Jones’ guard. Jones appears to be going for an omoplata but then pulls Thurman into his full guard. Jones sweeps off of the cage and has Thurman mounted. Jones pounds Thurman’s face with punches until the ref steps in to stop the bout.

Maurice Jones def Jeremy Thurman by TKO (strikes) at 1:55 Round 2

Tania Powell – Top Dog MMA vs Nicola Faircloth –Independent MMA

They trade leg kicks and punches as they move to the cage wall and then back to the center of the cage. Powell goes for the single and lands in Faircloth’s loose triangle that leads to Powell fully mounting Faircloth. Powell traps both of Faircloth’s arms and works the armbar. The round winds down with Powell containing Faircloth’s arms and Faircloth fighting the armbar.

Round 2 Powell presses Faircloth to the cage and is really working the single. Powell hammers Faircloth’s face with some punches and Powell finishes the takedown. Once again Powell has Faircloth mounted and is fighting for the armbar but then switches to a mounted triangle. Faircloth rolls and steps over Powell to prevent the finish and the bell rings.

Round 3 Faircloth delivers a few uppercuts and jabs to Powell and Powell easily takes her to the mat. Powell is briefly trapped in half guard and quickly transitions to side control and to mount once again. Faircloth bucks as Powell goes for another armbar or triangle. Powell switches to a kimura and Faircloth sweeps. Powell sweeps right back to mount and works the kimura to end the round.

Tania Powell def Nicola Faircloth by unanimous decision

Justin Scoggins – Pitch Black MMA vs Chris Ortiz – Independent MMA

Scoggins with his hands down and is just blasting Ortiz with punches and lands a spinning back kick. Ortiz attempts a takedown and eats a knee from Scoggins along with another spinning back kick. Ortiz slips and Scoggins pounces on him. Ortiz leaps up and Scoggins presses him to the cage. Scoggins clinches and Ortiz delivers punches to the body. Scoggins presses Ortiz to the cage and gets a double to side control. Scoggins hammers Ortiz face with heavy fists, as the bell rings and Ortiz must be helped to his corner.

Round 2 Scoggins comes out swinging and pummels Ortiz to the fence. Scoggins knees Ortiz at the cage and lands a head kick that sends Ortiz to the ground. Scoggins follows him to the mat with a flurry of punches and the ref jumps in to stop it.

Justin Scoggins def Chris Ortiz by TKO (strikes) at 1:39 Round 2

Andrew Ballenger – Contemporary Martial Arts/Hardcore Gym vs Ben Brewer – Evolution MMA

Ballenger kicks and slips when the round starts. He gets up and is quickly taken down by Brewer, however Ballenger ends up on top. Brewer sweeps and traps Ballenger in a mounted triangle. Ballenger rolls but is still caught in the triangle. Brewer works a kimura with Ballenger still locked in the triangle. Ballenger slips out and is to his feet. Brewer works a single to the fence and pulls Ballenger away to finish the takedown. Ballenger goes for a triangle and the bell rings.

Round 2 They trade kicks and Brewer shoots a double. Brewer finishes the takedown and lands with Ballenger in his half guard. Ballenger moves to mount and Brewer sweeps into Ballenger’s guard. Ballenger hooks up the triangle and is delivering some hammer fists. Brewer lands some knees to the body of Ballenger still locked in the triangle as the round ends.

Round 3 A leg trip by Brewer and he ends up in Ballenger’s half guard. Brewer moves to side control and punches Ballenger in the face. Brewer mounts and Ballenger rolls, giving up his back. Brewer locks in a rear naked choke and Ballenger taps out.

Ben Brewer def Andrew Ballenger by rear naked choke at 1:53 Round 3

Charles Rosa – ATT vs John Cobb – Independent MMA

Both fighters trade every strike in their arsenal and a Rosa jab sends Cobb to the mat. Hammer fists by Rosa and he moves to mount. Rosa tees off and Cobb gives up his back. Rosa sinks in a rear naked choke and Cobb is finished.

Charles Rosa def John Cobb by rear naked choke at 1:22 Round 1 to win the Fight Party Lightweight Amateur belt

Joseph Corneroli – Pitch Black MMA vs Steele McCall – X3

Corneroli trips McCall and lands in mount. McCall rolls and Corneroli takes his back. Steel works out and they are back to their feet. A head kick and a hook lead to a takedown by Corneroli. McCall hooks up a kimura and Corneroli works out pressing against the cage and delivers elbows to McCall. Steele goes for a guillotine and then transitions to a triangle/armbar. Corneroli stands and McCall lets go but is still pressed to the cage. McCall goes for the armbar but Corneroli rolls and moves to side control and transitioned to mount as the round comes to an end.

Round 2 McCall presses Corneroli to the cage. Corneroli tosses McCall to the ground and lands in side control. Steele wall walks the cage and Corneroli knees the body several times. Corneroli locked up an arm triangle and McCall defends it well. Minutes go by with the arm triangle locked and Corneroli’s arms tire, he lets go of the choke and McCall gets to his feet. Corneroli trips McCall and lands in McCall’s guard as Steele goes for a guillotine.

Round 3 Steele lands a few punches and Corneroli takes him down with a single into side control. McCall traps Corneroli with an inverted triangle but Corneroli slips out and moves to side control. Corneroli delivers some knees to the body and moves to mount easily. McCall bucks and attempts to slip out the back door but Corneroli is smothering him with pressure. On their feet again, Corneroli trips McCall landing in mount and sinks in a guillotine. McCall sneaks out and the bell rings.

Joseph Corneroli def Steele McCall by unanimous decision

Kendrick Miree – ATT vs Michael Alford – Team ROC

Miree chases Alford around the cage and takes him down into side control and then to mount. Alford rolls giving up his back, Miree goes for the rear naked choke and Alford defends. Alford tries to stand but Miree forces him down. Miree is transitioning from back, to side control to north/south like clockwork. Miree works his hooks in and goes for the rear naked again. Alford rolls and Miree is in side control peppering him with elbows.

Round 2 Miree presses Alford to the ground, picks him up and drops him to his side. Miree mounts and Alford rolls and is happy in the turtle position. Alford manages to get up, Miree presses him face first into the cage and takes Alford down with ease. Alford turtles again and Miree takes his back after sinking in his hooks. Miree saws in a rear naked choke but Alford sweeps. Alford is in Miree’s guard and stands as he stacks Miree up. Miree sees an arm, grabs it and taps Alford with an armbar just before the bell.

Kendrick Miree def Michael Alford by armbar at 4:55 Round 2

Stephen Thompson – Pitch Black MMA vs Patrick Mandio – X3

Thompson comes out with his hands down and switching stances rapidly just begging Mandio to come in close. Mandio presses Thompson to the cage; Thompson spins out and presses Mandio to the fence. They break off of the wall and into the center of the mat. Mandio tosses Thompson to the ground and lands in Thompson’s guard. Thompson lands elbows to Mandio’s head as Mandio scoots Thompson to the cage. Thompson walks the wall and delivers a knee to Mandio.

Round 2 A head kick from Thompson and Mandio goes in for the single, he presses Thompson to the cage. Thompson circles and they moved to the center. Thompson presses Mandio to the cage and delivers knees to a takedown. Thompson goes to mount and punishes Mandio’s head with punches. Mandio forces himself up the cage as they break. Thompson goes to the body with punches, lands a combo and head kick before taking Mandio down again. Mandio works his way up as the round ends.

Round 3 Thompson lands several sidekicks to Mandio’s head and then punishes him with leg kicks. Mandio is swinging for the fences as they clinch and trade knees. Thompson continues to pick his strikes perfectly and time them just right to close out the round.

Stephen Thompson def Patrick Mandio by unanimous decision

Marius Cujba – X3 vs John Cofer – Hardcore Gym

The majority of the first round was spent as both fighters are feeling each other out. Cujba lands several unchecked leg kicks. Cofer with a low blow and the ref gives Cujba time to recover. The round ends with more feeling out.

Round 2 Both fighters seem to be ready to throw this round. Cofer is pressing hard landing several shots to the head and body. Cofer charges with 2-3 punch combos and Cujba lands more unchecked leg kicks. Both fighters throw equalizing jabs as Cofer shoots for the takedown. Cujba grabs the fence to stop the takedown but Cofer does not care and slings him down anyway. Cofer ends the round on top blasting Cujba with shoulder blows to the face.

Round 3 Cofer charges with the combos again as Cujba paws at him. Cofer catches a Cujba head kick and then a leg kick to press Cujba to the fence. They circle and Cofer blasts Cujba with a couple of rights. Cofer works a single and attempts a trip but Cujba grabs the cage again to stop the takedown.

Round 4 Cofer lands an uppercut and Cujba answers with a hook. Cujba continues to paw at Cofer and appears to be searching for a strong overhand right. Cujba goes for a single and Cofer lands a knee to the body. They circle and trade to end the round.

Round 5 Cofer is mixing it up more, throwing more kicks to the body. Cujba is still pawing at Cofer. Cofer goes for the single and Cujba grabs the fence again to prevent the takedown for the third time in the fight. Cofer presses Cujba into the cage and delivers several knees while maintaining a tight body lock on Cujba. Cujba goes for a kimura and Cofer circles and moves to the center of the cage. Cofer lands a big left and then a big toss by Cujba and Cofer. Cujba presses Cofer to the fence and Cofer punishes Cujba with a multitude of knees as the bell rings.

John Cofer def Marius Cujba by unanimous decision to win the Fight Party Lightweight belt

Marius Cujba gave us a few minutes to answer some questions about this weekend and his career. Marius is one of the most humble guys I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. He’s actually really great to be around until he Judo’s you on your head.

NMMAF: This is your toughest test to date. How do you plan to come out on top?
MC: I will just try to do my best to overcome the challenge. I train hard for every fight.

NMMAF: You’ve outstruck elite grapplers and out grappled elite strikers, how will Cofer’s balanced attack play into your strategy?
MC: I will just try to follow my strategy the best I can so I can win. I have to be ready for anything.

NMMAF: You seem to be picking your fights very carefully and developing your record against tough competition. Do you see yourself in a major promotion soon?
MC: I am hoping that I will have this chance before I retire. I take the fights my management and coaches agree are best for me and my career.

NMMAF: How do you balance your training regiment to be able to teach but also stay in pro fighting shape?
MC: Knowing my priorities, balancing my time and taking the best of my time every day. My coaches and training partners at X3 work together as a team should to get everyone ready for a fight.

NMMAF: Is there anyone you would like to thank? (trainers, sponsors, etc?)
MC: First I would like to thank God for everything and then to X3 Sports trainers,training partners, management, and my whole team. My sponsors are: Cobb Pain & Rehab (Dr. Jason Weeks), Apogee 360, Mix1, Mosquito Squad, and The InHouse Graphics – Thank You.

Looking to get in on the action? http://www.ticketmaster.com/Masquerade-Fight-Party-1-tickets/artist/1627505 or call the Masquerade box office 404-477-8178.

RELATED:

We spoke with Marius Cujba undefeated fighter from X3 Sports after he took home the Georgia Fighters Lightweight Strap.

NMMAF: You just got matched up with Chris Cain for Wild Bill’s Fight Night 40. It looks like a great card and you are now part of it. Tell us your thoughts.
GT: Well I’ve been on that card for the past month or two, unfortunately my original opponent pulled out and we’ve been trying to get another fight since. My new opponent is Chris Cain and I agreed to fight him at a weight of 142+2lbs. I normally fight at 145+2, it’s not a big difference so I should have no problem making weight. I’m always excited to be on the Wild Bills show, they do a great job promoting it and many people know about it. My only concern is fighting in a boxing ring. I’ve done it many times before, but there is always that risk of falling through the ropes during a takedown, or someone tripping. It takes you back to the Pride days haha.

NMMAF:Where do you think the fight goes and how are you going to improve to 4-0?
GT: From what I know, Chris’s main style is grappling. I see the fight going anywhere really, wherever I see an opportunity to finish the fight I will take advantage of it. I’ve been working my striking for some time now to compliment my ground game and takedowns. If I see a weakness I will exploit it, and if I see that I am outmatched in one aspect, I will move the fight elsewhere. I read the Art of War by Sun Tzu once or twice.

NMMAF:You’ve been pretty busy this year and barring any injuries do you plan to fight with this frequency in the future?
GT:Now that I’m out of college and have a full time job, I can train 7 days a week and prepare for fights much better than before. If I’m coming out of a fight injury free, I’ll take it easy for a week and get back to work the next. Normally, 8-10 weeks is plenty of time to prepare for a fight. That’s not always the case, sometime you get more time to train, sometimes less.

NMMAF:Where do you want to be in 2 years? Who do you have to beat to get there?
GT: In two years I see myself having close to 15 fights, maybe less. I don’t take any fight lightly, and I do everything I can to prepare for a victory. I’m currently ranked #6 under Georgia Fighters rankings, and in order to make a bigger name for myself I will have to fight those above me. I plan on doing that in the future, for now I will focus on the fight against Chris Cain.

NMMAF:How was DragonCon?
GT:DragonCon was a blast! we had a great time and spent all weekend down there. It’s hard to explain DragonCon to someone who’s never been, my best description would be: It’s like a 4 day long Halloween costume party, and some people do amazing jobs with their costumes, I always try to bring new people down each year to check it out, and afterwards they are hooked! I’ll share a link of some pictures we took while we were down there.
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.917054288923.2370511.23212968

NMMAF:Is there anyone you want to thank?
GT: Thanks for doing this interview with me! I’d also like to thank everyone at Striker Fight Center, mma coach Steve Broughman, BJJ coach Juan Guevara, Boxing coach Nate and Adam, and weight training coach Rocky Thorn. Manager Lisa Webb, my training partners, my awesome girlfriend, and family.

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

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

If this Friday’s Wild Bill’s Fight Night will be anything like the last one, YOU DO NOT WANT TO MISS IT.

NextMMAFighter will be cageside jotting down the blow-by-blow. Look for the guys in the black shirts and say “HI”

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

We had the pleasure of covering Bangkok Fight night at Center Stage Atlanta once again. Certainly my favorite venue for fights in town, not a bad seat in the house. The place was packed for this night of fights and the crowd was electric. Khunpon puts on a great card with high production value every time. If you live in Atlanta and have not made it to a Bangkok Fight Night, you owe it to yourself to set aside a night for the next card.

Let’s get down to business.

Cody Maiden vs Christian Arguello

Cody comes out with a quick combo and drops Christian early. Cody pounces and looks to sink an armbar to finish the fight quickly. Christian regains his composure and rises into Cody’s guard. Cody throws the legs up and hits an armbar.

Cody Maiden def Christian Arguello by sub. (armbar) 0:51 in rd. 1

Ja Lowery vs Warren Smith

Ja looks to control the ring but Warren is a quick striker. Ja tried a single leg takedown that Warren stuffed. Ja is throwing some jabs and leg kicks. Warren is throwing some stiff counter punches but not landing anything clean. Ja clinches up and gets a trip. Ja passes to side control and punishes Warren with punches to the face. Warren gets to his knees to escape; Ja switches to his back and sinks the hooks in. Warren defends the rear naked choke and they end the round in that position.

Round 2 Ja catches a leg kick and returns a straight right that gets Warren to cover up. Ja does not take advantage and instead throws some leg kicks from range occasionally following with a straight punch. Ja is dictating the pace and range of the standup, Warren is dodging some punches but not landing his share. Ja continues to press with leg kicks and jabs. Warren is throwing a roughly 20% of the strikes in this round. Ja has a strong gameplan and is sticking to it.

Round 3. Ja delivers more of the same leg kicks and jabs. Ja misses a body kick and Warren has an oppotunity to get to top position on the ground. Ja stands and gets back to work. Ja’s superior reach is a huge problem for Warren. The fighters circle for a frew more seconds when Ja lands a solid body shot to Warren’s left side. Warren takes a knee and waves him off.

Ja Lowery def Warrn Smith by TKO in 1:53 rd. 3

Jad Kamchamnan vd Robel Kebede

These guys come out swinging. They close to brawl some then clinch. Jade likes straight shots in the inside. Robel is trying to stay at range with some leg and front kicks. Jade trips Robel twice in a row and lands some more good shots to the head with hooks. Robel is having trouble mounting an offense in the first stanza.

Round 2 Jade maintains the pressure with kick and punch combos. Robel seems to turn the tides when he starts counter kicking. Jade takes some shots he shouldn’t have due to some fatigue. The fast action and body shots Jade is absorbing is taking a toll. Robel may have given the judges a reason to keep him in this fight. If Jade continues to wane and Robel lands the shots he’s throwing, this could be his fight.

Round 3 Robel lands a front kick to the body early. Jade turns it on looking to score some points. They clinch up and neither is able to land much there. Robel hits a big body slam from the clinch and follows with a jab and another body slam. Jade has a lot of heart and keeps coming. Jade certainly feels the pressure late in this round but Robel is getting the better of the exchangs in the clinch with some knees to the body.

Robel Kebede def Jad Kamchamnan by unan. dec.

Rafael George vs Gui Cury

Gui takes a shot early and tries to get it to the ground. Rafael wants to keep it standing but hasn’t throwing anything yet. Rafael circles but gets clipped with a left hook and Gui jumps on him. Rafael gets his composure back and gets Gui in guard. Gui gets to pass and eventually take the back. Rafael tries to turn and escape but Gui puts both hooks in and flattens him out. Gui works some punches to the body looking to soften him up for the Rear Naked Choke. The round exprires with Gui on Rafael’s back.

Round 2 Rafael lands a shot early and Gui drops for a takedown. Rafael follows him down to guard. Gui has an active open guard and is looking to catch an arm or sweep. Rafael defends an armbar and omaplata before he stands. Gui shoots immediately and gets on top. Rafael tries to kick Gui off and turn instead of a technical stance and gets his back taken. Gui works quickly for an RNC and picks up a victory.

Gui Cury def Rafael George by sub (RNC) 2:09 in rd. 2

Josh Downing vs Erik Castro

Erik holds the center of the ring and Josh circles. Neither wants to engage. Erik lands some solid leg kicks. Josh takes a couple shots and looks to want to counter with hooking punches. Erik lands some more solid leg kicks and Josh hates it. Josh approaches and takes a body shot and jab for his trouble. The round comes to a close with Erik landing all but 1 strike apparently.

Round 2 Erik lands more leg kicks and Josh trades a pair with him that get Erik dropped from a slip. Erik maintains his range and lands more leg kicks followed by some jabs and hooks. Josh is a fish out of water against this attack.

Round 3 Josh is popping in and out with punches and kicks. The varied attack is keeping Erik at bay to start. Erik lands a big body kick but Josh catches it and trips him to the ground hard. Erik goes for a big head kick and barely misses. They clinch in the corner and trade some knees. The round runs much the same way the other rounds went with Erik maintaining range and stymying Josh’s attack. Tough fight for Josh, Erik really maintained that range and landed kicks all day. The judges may see the pressure put on Josh for points though.

Josh Downing def Erik Castro by split dec.

Teddy Williams vs Dexter “Bolo” Carthon.

Bolo is a physically imposing gentleman. Huge shoulders. Teddy lands some probing strikes to start but Bolo manages to barrel into him and land on top. He does a little damage there but prefers to stand and throw big heavy strikes with the hands. Bolo has a strong 1-2 combo that he throws with bad intentions. Teddy gets Bolo to come to the ground and Bolo lays on him heavy. The get stood up but Teddy wants none of this work on the feet and pushes Bolo to the ground during a combo. Teddy hops on immediately to lock in a guillotine. Bolo bucks like a bull until time expires. Teddy is streaming blood from the nose.

Round 2 Teddy looks to have a little more confidence from the end of the last round and throws some more jabs. Bolo may have hit some gas tank issues having such a high offensive output in the first. Teddy is also still wary of the heavy hands. They seem to almost stand in front of each other tentative to strike. Terry builds some confidence and comes in with a flurry. Bolo pushes him off with hands on his hips, obviously fatigued. Bolo throws 2 punches on the ground, Teddy may just win this on conditioning alone.

Round 3 they clinch for the first time and trade some knees and uppercuts. Bolo pushes Teddy off and lands another 1-2 combo and then another, Teddy has a strong chin but is taking some shots. Teddy clinches up again and gets taken to the ground between the ropes. Bolo looked to have purposefully left the ropes and had a point taken away. The fatigue is apparent but Bolo still manages to land a strong shot occasionally. The round ends with the fighters hesitant to engage.

Teddy Williams draws Dexter “Bolo” Carthon in a majority draw.

Mary Matia vs Colleen Louima

Both girls have a reputation for brawling. Colleen closes early and clinches, they trade some knees and body strikes and separate. Colleen is trying to stay outside and then close for clinch work. Mary has fought fighters like this before and maintains a resilient chin and infinite gas tank for punches. Colleen took a straight shot and got dropped. Mary is unloading her patented machine gun punches. The round ends and Colleen returns to her corner with a mouse over her left eye.

Round 2 picks up where thye left off, Mary punches non-top and stuns Colleen. Colleen tries to clinch up and work knees but Mary just goes to the body and turns her, disengages and throws more punches. Colleen tries to keep distance with front kicks but Mary keeps drilling her over her left hand. Mary lands a big leading left hook towards the end of the round and lands a few more shots before the close of the second stanza.

Round 3 Colleen is able to land some punches but Mary is as fresh as round 1 and stops forward through combos landing stiff punches. Colleen starts to wilt against Mary’s superior strength and fortitude but they bang it out till the very end. Big heart in both of these girls.

Mary Matia def Colleen Louima by unan. dec.

Amir Dadovic vs Steele McCall

Both long lanky fighters at 170, they want to use their range and are looking for some rhythm. Steele is pushing the pressure coming in and out and landing some long punches. Steele finds his rhythm early and is landing some good punch/leg kick combos. Amir hasn’t solved the puzzle yet. Steele maintains the pressure with the same angled attack. Amir manages to land a counter jab or two but nothing of note yet. Amir does land a glancing head kick but Steele lands his own body kick. Steele shoots for a takedown and they body lock fight for some time. Amir puts in a guillotine and jumps guard. Steele stacks Amir and is trying to avoid the submission. Steele finishes the round with body shots for points.

Round 2 Steele is immediately on the attack with the same multiple jab/cross/leg kick combos. Steele backs him into a corner, Steele looks to setup the guillotine and pushes Amir around in the clinch. They separate and get back to striking, Steele shoots a takedown and Amir gets a momentary advantage. Amir works in top position for a kimura, Steele snakes out the side and gets the back, works for a triangle/armbar/kimura all in a few seconds. Amir escapes and get on top after a lot of work from Steele. Amir works from Steele’s guard when steel throws up the legs for an armbar, Amir keeps his head in and defends, Steele transitions to a triangle but back to armbar real quick. Amir is turned over and he looks like he tapped. The crowd flips out, the ref steps in a little late, but it is a righteous stoppage.

Steele McCall def Amir Dadovic by sub. (armbar)

Moe Travis vs Tecia Torres

Tecia has a stiff leg kick and is snapping each strike. Moe is a little more compact and is landing her strikes with some mustard behind them. Tecia fears no counter with 4 punch combos straight down the pipe. Tecia is staying outside using her reach and legs, Mo’s corner is calling for her to close and she does to clinch and land some knees.

Round 2 Mo closes early with a flurry and clinches up. Mo lands some knees and a trip. Mo closes again for more of the same, punch combos, knees and a trip. Tecia is having no success with her offense. Mo is able to close the distance and clinch regularly. Closing seconds of round 2 Tecia attacks with a flurry, but Mo locks up a clinch again and drives Tecia to the ground.

Round 3 Tecia lands the first couple shots with push kicks. Mo takes some punishment but closes, clinches, and pushes Tecia to the ground. Mo is using her superior strength and leverage to clinch up and drive Tecia to the ground often. Tecia lands a few shots but is overwhelmed in clinch.

Round 4 is more of the same, Tecia is trading a leg kick for getting dropped ater a clinch. Tecia does manage to keep her range and get dropped less in this round. Tecia ends the round with some solid 1-2 punches possibly stealing the round.

Round 5 Tecia keeps on coming, and takes some shots on the way in but knows she’s got to try to win the fight here. Mo waits for her to tire some and starts landing some clean shots with multiple takedowns from the clinch. They bang it out hard till the end.

Moe Travis def Tecia Torres by unan. decision

Will Kuhn vs Sasuke Zapata

Sasuke has a JKD background and throws some flashy kicks to start. Will is a banger but needs to get in close to execute. Will closes after a missed kick to clinch and Sasuke jumps guard. Will postures up in guard to work some GnP, Sasuke kicks him off and they stand. Will closes again after a missed kick and Will drives them to the ground. Will passes momentarily but Sasuke is able to get and underhook and stand. Will clinches with him again, Sasuke jumps up for a guillotine and Will carries him across the ring for a big slam. Will is able to maintain top position and then side control. Will is able to switch to north south, attempt a kimura, and eventually get Sasuke’s back. Sasuke gets to his feet and they clinch just as the round ends.

They feint some shots at each other in the beginning of the second and Sasuke launches an attack. They clinch and Will body locks him to the ground. Will lands a solid elbow to the body while in Sasuke’s guard but is otherwise unable to do much damage. They are stood up and we begin a display of kicks. Sasuke throws some flash side kicks, and lands a short axe kick when will attempts a leg kick. Will lands some more leg kicks and they clinch up again. Will gets him to the ground again but stands quickly. Sasuke misses a big kick and falls. Will let’s him back up and is lookign to land a big shot. Sasuke looks tired and one-dimensional but Will is just not on the attack.

Round 3 Sauske launches another kick that misses. Will closes with some punches, clinches, and trips Sasuke to the ground. Sasuke attempts some submissions from his back but is able to sink anything. Will works from top position and is nearly swept. They get back to standing and clinch up again, will drops for a double, Sasuke attempts another guillotine, and Will picks him up to drive him to the ground in his corner. Sasuke attempts a kimura there but Will escapes. Will works a little from top position but is unable to land anything clean. The ref stands them up and they circle each other until the fight ends.

Will Kuhn def Sasuke Zapata by dec.

Josh Glover vs Stephen Upchurch

Josh is landing the early shots first with some fast punches. Stephen wants to close and work but is just late on his attacks. The clinch up and Josh’s strength is apparent. Josh manages the clinch for the most part but when he goes for a throw ends up on bottom momentarily. Josh gets to his knees and Stephen jumps up for a guillotine. Josh jumps out of danger quick and is in Stephen’s guard. Stephen throws the legs up for some submissions but Josh stays heavy on him and further damages the cut Stephen has over his right eye. Stephen sits up, Josh attempts a guillotine, and Stephen is able to stand but is taken down again immediately. Josh gets mount, Stephen turns and nearly gives up the back, spins, and Josh follows him to lock in an arm triangle just as time expires in the round.

Stephen throws out some punch combos but is unable to land anything. Josh closes for a double and they get to the ground. Josh is on top in half guard and is working to lock in another arm triangle. Stepehen gets his arm over and out of danger for a moment before Josh passes to mount. Stephen turns to escape again but gives up his back and gets locked in a rear naked choke.

Josh Glover def Stephen Upchurch by sub (RNC) 2:15 in rd 2

A great night of fights once again at Wild Bill’s in Duluth, Ga. Here is the blow-by-blow account of an explosive evening.

Joshua Cook Chaotic FItness vs Junior Mewborn Legacy Fight Club

Josh tried a few kicks early on, Junior follows a missed kick with some hooks and looks like he tagged Josh. Josh closes the distance and clinches up. Josh gets a big body

lock takedown and goes to take the back. Junior turns while Josh crept up quickly and took an arm, locking up an armbar.

Joshua Cook def Junior Mewborn by sub. armbar in rd 1 0:25.

Kenyon Wilson X3 Sports vs Nick Beal Striker Combat Center

Kenyon lands a glancing right hook early and Nick backs off. Nick shoots in for a double and gets it to the ground. Kenyon gets his feet under him and is able to get up. Nick tries some punches and lands a body lock takedown. Kenyon is able to keep his posture and stay in top position and then mount. Nick gets back to guard and they get back to work. Nick attempts an armbar from guard, Kenyon evades, hits a switch and is all over Nicks back. Nick is defending well but Kenyon is quick. Nick explodes out back into guard with Kenyon on top. Nick attempts a 3rd armbar that he completes mere seconds before the round ends.

Nick Beal def Kenyon Wilson by sub. armbar in rd 1 2:56

Larry Daughtery Slaughter House MMA vs Josh Blankenship Legacy Fight Club

Josh lands a stiff leg kick early on and folows with a strong straight left. Josh attackes with a leg kick striaght left combo. Josh looks the more technical striker and is landing punches flush. Larry approaches with his hands at his hips and looks to load up some shots. Josh is able to avoid most of the major strikes and then it turns into a brawl. Josh gets the better of the exchanges and lays into him against the fence when the ref stops it.

Josh Blankenship def Larry Daughtery by TKO in rd 1 1:22

Marques Jackson X3 Sports vs Seth Colwell Striker Fight Center

Marques absorbs a leg kick and locks up a bodylock. Marques pushes Seth up agains the cage and delivers some brutal knees. They separate and Marques lands a big body kick. Seth now wants it on the ground and secures a double. Seth works the body from Marques’s guard. Marques works to wall walk but Seth keeps pulling his legs out from under him. Ref stands em up after a while and they meet in the middle with kicks. They stand and Seth gets another takedown just before the end of the first.

Round 2 Marques misses a big leg kick and Seth closes quickly for a takedown. Marques nearly lands a huge left hook but they clinch up instead. Marques hits a guillotine and drops into guard. Marques works it for a few seconds and Seth taps.

Marques Jackson def Seth Colwell by sub (guillotine) in rd 2 0:22

Ricardo Giraldo Fusion MMA vs Cody Maiden Striker Fight Center

Cody exhibits some crisp striking to start. Ricardo wants this on the ground ASAP and get a double leg to the ground. Ricardo has side control and works for an arm triangle. Cody defends and tries to spin out. Ricardo is maintaining top position until Cody explodes over into north-south. Ricardo bridges and tries to escape, Cody picks up an arm and locks the legs for an armbar quickly.

Cody Maiden def Ricardo Giraldo by sub (armbar) in rd 1 1:43

Kevin Patton Fusion MMA vs Chandler Smith Legacy Fight Club

Kevin tried an overhand right early and got tagged and hurt. Kevin closes to clinch and wants it on the ground. Chandler has him jacked up and went for a hip toss that failed and landed Kevin in his guard. Chandler bucked and turned to escape, Kevin rode him to take his back and locked in a Rear Naked Choke.

Kevin Patton def Chandler Smith by sub (RNC) in rd 1 0:51

TJ MCDaniel HardKnox MMA vs Gabe Leatherman Legacy Fight Club

TJ has a swift leg kick and tags Gabe early. Gabe fires of a head kick that misses and TJ closes to clinch forcing Gabe to the fence. They trade knees and position against the fence until Gabe tries to pick TJ up and slam him unsuccessfully. TJ lands in Gabe’s half guard but Gabe sweeps to guard quickly. Gabe strikes to the head and body while TJ holds on to defend. Gabe drills TJ with shots to the face. TJ is able to make eye contact with the ref before he covers up and takes some more abuse. TJ created some space to
get underhooks just as the ref came in to stop it.

Gabe Leatherman def TJ McDaniel by TKO in rd 1 2:32

Kesha Springle Gruebel’s MMA vs Mary Matia KBX Fitness

Kesha attacks from range with spinning back kicks and side kicks, an apparent TKD background. Mary is having some trouble getting inside for the range she’s comfortable with. Mary weathers a number of shots and closes but Kesha clinches and and the ref separates. Mary is able to get inside after Kesha tires some and deliver her patented machine gun shots. Kesha evades some and is able to land some hooks. The round ends with Kesha on the fence taking punishment.

Kesha lands a huge spinning backfist to start the round but Mary has a solid chin, she barrels forward taking more punishment but is able to land some clean straight punches. There are a series of meet and greets as you see Kesha start to wane some. Mary pumps the pistons into the side of her head to finish the round.

Kesha keeps her distance with side kicks and when Mary closes Kesha clinches up. Mary keeps trying to close and brawl but Kesha is between extreme range and the clinch making it very hard for Mary to execute her gameplan.

Mary Matia def Kesha Springle by unan dec

Mike Alvarado Bangkok Boxing vs Ja Lowery ATT Atlanta

Mike catches a finger in the eye to start. aaaand he can’t continue.

No Contest

Jesse Wable Team Full Throttle vs Joey Ward Striker Fight Center

Joey is he aggressor, Jesse seems to want to wait for the action and counter. Joey lands a good headkick and Jesse recovers quickly. Joey lands a couple good shots and goes in for a takedown. Joey postures over Jesse and works some GnP. Joey ends up with Jesse in a front headlock. They get up and Jesse shoots a double. Joey locks in a guillotine and they go to the ground. Jesse is able to defend the submission and work some GnP of his own from the guard.

Round 2 They rush in and Jesse throws a haymaker that just misses. Jesse is headhunting while Joey is picking his shots. Jesse tags him with a right, Joey shoots the takedown a Jesse locks up a strong guillotine before he jumps guard. Jesse traps Joey’s left arm making it hard for him to defend, let alone tap.

Jesse Wable def Joey Ward by sub (guillotine) in rd 2

Andrew Higgins Fusion MMA vs Jarrell Bowman ATT Atlanta/Shidokan Atlanta

Jareell is spot on with his first strikes and landing technical straight shots. Andrew gets a kick caught and delivers a flying double drop kick. Jarrell clinches up, Andrew goes for a double, Jarrell locks in a guillotine and pulls guard. Andrew defends it, to his credit, but it looks deep while Jarrell works to secure it. Andrew pops his head out and starts working some strikes. Jarrell gets to wall walk and stand, when they get themselves into the same situation: Andrew in a near guillotine. Andrew pops his head out again and works to pass. Jarrell has a face of perpetually unimpressed and gets to standing again. Jarrell turns to grab a single and gets it to the ground. Andrew employs a high rubber guard before the round ends.

Round 2 Andrew tries to land an overhand right and gets into a clinch, Jarrell turns it into a takedown and Jarrell ends in Andrew’s guard. Andrew uses a rubber guard again and Jarrell is unable to posture up to do damage. Jarrell shakes the leg off and is able to pass to half guard. The ref stands them after some inactivity there. Andrew fires another overhand punch and shoots the double. Jarrell gets the back momentarily but only one hook in before he tries to choke Andrew out. Andrew turns and ends in half guard,

Jarrell postures up and gets a single leg, Andrew scoots up for an inverted triangle and then a crucifix, Jarrell moves swiftly to defend but ends up on the bottom. The round ends with Andrew dropping some punches on Jarrell’s head.

Round 3 they start pretty close, they close to clinch, Jarrell tries a hip toss, Andrew lands on top momentarily quickly locking in a triangle and rolling to his back. Andrew patiently works to secure it fully and Jarrell taps.

Andrew Higgins def Jarrell Bowman sub (triangle) in rd 3

Stephen Eakin Team Reality vs Jon Ivey Thug Jitsu

Stephen initiates with a solid leg kick… and another. Inside then outside. Now another outside. Jon motions something to the crowd and then goes on the assault. They brawl it on the fence for a sec before Jon catches one in the ding. Back to the action, Jon has big eyes and is lulling Stephen to drop his guard. Stephen has a small cut under his left eye after Jon connected with a few shots. Jon leaps forward and lands a 1-2, steps back and offers the chin. Stephen accepts and does no damage before Jon drops more bombs on the face cutting the other cheek. Jon attempts a Crane Kick that Stephen avoids. Stephen is fighting off his back feet seemingly demoralized while Jon dances and taunts but also lands big hooks. Stephen’s offense is 100% leg kicks to the lead leg. It looks to maybe be slowing Jon down but it’s hard to tell. The last leg kick got some lift and Jon may be tiring. Stephen finishes strong but the damage is showing.

Round 2 Stephen looks a little fresher and is still working the jabs and leg kicks. Stephen catches Jon on the way in with a knee and clinches him up for some knees to the body. Stephen works him against the fence but lands another unintentional low blow. Back to the action, Jon feints a low blow and hooks the head. Stephen locks him up against the fence and tries to drop him with a double, Jon waves his hands like something happened while Stephen rains down punches brutally. The ref steps in after a good 10 seconds
of damage have been delivered and Jon rises to his knees to recover. Back to the action AGAIN. Eakins continues with leg kicks and jabs. He found some success on the ground, he may try to get it back there. OH GOD. Eakins connects with another low blow and we face another No Contest.

No Contest

Adrian Miles Miles Freestyle Academy vs George Allen ATT Atlanta

George is a 44 year old veteran of the sport and has announced his retirement before the fight. George is still a strong guy and is giving Adrian some trouble in the clinch. Adrian tried a trip but George is able to stay up and even take his back. Adrian rolls forward and they separate. Adrian re-engages the clinch and starts throwing knees to the body. They throw and scramble, Geroge attempts a guillotine, Adrian defends and George ends up in a high half guard. Adrian attemps a sweep, armbar, and omoplata sweep in seconds. Adrian ends on top and rains down blows until the fight is stopped by the ref.

Adrian Miles def George Allen by TKO in rd. 1 4:53

Marius Cujba X3 Sports vs Diego Saraiva Sariava MMA

Marius is throwing some probing jabs and gets a leg kick for his troubles. They trade some jabs and leg kicks now and appear on equal footing. Marius lands a short hook but Diego is unfazed. Diego is getting comfortable now and putting together some combos. Marius keeps his range with leg kicks and jabs. Diego throws some big combos finishing with head kicks but is unable to land anything flush. Diego closes and they clinch up. This could be a deciding range in the fight given their respective backgrounds in Judo for Marius and BJJ for Diego. The takedowns and clinch work could be the key to victory, especially if it comes to decision. They separate after a failed throw and trade some punches. Marius is throwing some stiff punches and mixing in leg kicks. Diego is throwing similar hands but seems stymied by the varied attack. Towards the end of the round Marius shoots a double, gets a body lock from the back and slams Diego to the ground.

Round 2 they start tentative again, then some kicks, high for Diego and low for Marius. Diego steps up and Marius lands Steven Segal front kick. Marius clinches him up against the fence and delivers some knees. Marius lands some with the feet with the hands now. Diego pulls guard when Marius closes. Diego looks hurt and is butt scooting while Marius picks him apart at some range. Ref stands em up and Marius closes to clinch again. Marius works some knees against the fence while Diego defends and tries to get to the ground. Diego works on the ground again while Marius kicks him in the thighs and takes shots to the head when he has room. Final moments of the round Diego manages to grab Marius’s ankles and get him on the ground. Not much damage is delivered before the bell rings.

Round 3 has a similar start to the rest, some tentative jabs and leg kicks from both guys. Diego takes a shot that Marius stuffs, Diego employs a buttterfly sweep over the top but Marius keeps his composure and manages to stand. Marius kicks some to the legs, Diego gets him back to the ground and Marius gives some body shots while in the guard. Marius stands and Diego tries to butterfly sweep him again. They trade some shots now while standing, Diego does some taunting but Marius does not engage immediately. Diego shots a double again and Marius is calmly in his guard doing some damage. Marius stands and as time expires he launches one final punch to the head.

Marius Cujba def Diego Saraiva by unan. dec.