Steel Penn - ICON

[Guest]

Steel Penn ICON - Las Vegas Hostile Takeover Event Review

 

 

The final event under the name Steel Penn Icon-Las Vegas was a big success. A sell out at the Hayashi's Lounge and the fans that packed it let us know how great of an event it was. I do not have the final numbers sitting in front of me, but I am sure Meet the Future owner Jacob What will pleased with the turn out and sales. Mr. Monk has to be certainly happy with ICON-LV 5 Hostile Takeover as it was one of the highest rated events in his organizations history. We are going to take a look into each of these fights and see why it was such a great final event.



Gustavo Gracie versus Carlos “The Rattlesnake” Jimenez



In the first preliminary bout we got to see Gustavo Gracie take on Carlos "The Rattlesnake" Jimenez. I picked Gustavo Gracie to win this Middleweight bout in the first round by submission and he did not disappoint me. Right after the opening bell Gracie shoots in and gets the double pulling Jimenez down into guard. Gracie easily passed to half guard, but during a mount attempt he had to fend off a submission. The two warriors traded submission attempts and grappling tactics until Gracie was able to take full mount near the four minute mark. Jimenez was happy to give up his back and Gracie sunk in the leg hooks and was able to slap on a rear naked choke for the submission victory at 4:26 of the first round. Gracie hyped himself up after the fight, and he should have because that was amazing ground work.



Bruce Shashia versus Janusz Bomba



In our next bout at Featherweight I said Bomba needed to come out aggressive and that is exactly what he did. To start off the fight he was throwing kicks everywhere and they looked good, they would have looked better if some of them would have landed. In this first minute of the round I though Bomba’s aggressiveness might be all he needed until Shashia landed a massive body shot that would have sent most people to the ground. Instead Bomba clinched and looked to control. The clinch gets broke and the two start exchanging again. Shashia then lands an amazing jab square on the nose and we have blood! Bomba goes back to the clinch and gets a third takedown stuffed and then tries to pull guard. Shashia allows Bomba to stand back up and its jab, hook, hook, hook, hook, and Bomba is face down! Shashia wins by TKO. I picked the correct winner, but I had this fight going to decision. Oh well I am still two for two and that’s what matters.



Investitor Gradnje versus Kurt “Swift” Zukaryian



Kurt Zukaryian did not take my advice of staying away from the ground as he attempted an early take down to start the fight off. After defending the takedown attempt Gradnje tried one himself only to have it stuffed as well. The two men clinch up against the cage and Gradnje drags Zukaryian to the floor, but ends up in a strange position. As the two look for ways to get the dominate position somehow Zukaryian ends up on top with Gradnje in full guard. After a few seconds of no action we get a warning from the referee and Gradnje throws on a loose triangle choke, but it was enough as Zukaryian taps out at the :45 second mark of the first round. Once again I miss the prediction of the round, but I am now three for three as Investitor Gradnje is your winner.



Jack “The Tank” Harris versus Brian “Cold Bloded” Fury



Jack Harris is a lay and pray guy as I pointed out in the preview to this event. I predicted he would get the takedown and do just enough to point out the victory. Well in the first round Harris proved me wrong, he did get the takedown nice and early but instead of just doing enough he overdid it. Sixteen submission attempts all defended well by Brian Fury and the round goes to Harris 10-9.



In the second round Fury starts the round by trying to grab a clinch but Harris gets the takedown. Harris really wants to finish this fight as we see another ten submission attempts until shortly after the 3:00 minute mark. The action slows down and we get a stand up from the ref. Once we get back up from the ground Fury tries to clinch and Harris circles and gets Fury’s back. Harris lands a massive suplex that I thought could have ended the fight. Harris then looks for a few more submissions before the close of the round. I personally scored that round 10-8 for Harris.



We get much of the same in the third round with Harris getting the takedown and looking for submissions. Fury gets a sweep but Harris is able to use his superior grappling skills and he takes the dominate position once again. We get a few more submission attempts from Harris and as time is running out we get an attempt from Fury and then the buzzer sounds. All of the judges scored it 30-27, I scored it 30-26 Harris wins by decision.



Anderson “Shogun” Christopher versus “The Wasp” Wade West



West comes out firing away, and landing some nice shots on Christopher. West grabs the clinch and is able to do some damage with knees to the body. It appears that Christopher is tired as West will be able to do whatever he wants in this one. West breaks the clinch and throws some kicks and some body punches and goes back to the clinch. From the clinch he lands a nice elbow busting Christopher open which usually has a bad effect on fighters. We go back to the clinch so West can work over Christopher some more, and then right back to striking distance. Christopher takes some flush shots to the jaw. Around the three minute mark West landed some body shots and then he landed a head kick that was partially blocked, but it was still enough to rock Christopher. Jab to the body and a hook to the head and that is all she wrote for Christopher. Wayde West is your winner by knockout at 3:22 of the first round via punch.



That wraps up the preliminary fights and it is time to get on to the main card. I would like to point out how dominate Wayde West looked in that last fight and I would like to also remind everyone to drop by Meet the Future for any of their apparel needs. Now on to the main card bouts.



Julius Caesar versus Marek Contofalsky



Caesar comes out throwing, and landing. Punches to the face and body landing around fifty percent, and then he lands a big inside leg kick. Caesar then takes he fight to the clinch where he would control the fight, preventing Conto from taking him down. Caesar then breaks the clinch and we get back to striking, only this time Conto is striking just as good if not better than Caesar. So since Caesar had been working on the clinch he decided to go back to it, but Conto landed an elbow that cut Caesar and then took the fight to the mat. I have it scored 10-9 for Conto.



On to round two and Caesar lands a kick that hits the no no spot and we have a break in the action for Conto. For the rest of the first minute Caesar outstroke Conto but not nothing over whelming. Caesar lands a left then a big right that sends Conto to the ground, and Caesar jumps on his rocked opponent. Caesar was throwing some shots from the ground while he tried to pass the guard, but he was unsuccessful. We get a referee stand up and Caesar grabs the clinch to take a breather. Conto holds onto the clinch as the round closes with a frustrated Caesar who wanted to throw some more strikes from range as the round closes. I have Caesar winning this round 10-9.



To start the third round we get both fighters exchange until Caesar grabs a clinch. The clinch gets broken but Caesar gets it right back. In the clinch Caesar stuffed a lot of takedown attempts and the two fighters exchanged a few shots most of which were blocked. The action has clearly slowed way down as these two fighters seemed to be pretty gassed out. Caesar tried to get back to range but Conto was able to hold on until the end of the third round. A very lack luster third round that I gave to Caesar 10-9. All three judges scored the fight 30-27, but I strongly feel Conto won the first round. Still I ended with the same result Caesar wins the unanimous decision.



Donovan “Ronin” Robertson versus Deco “Glass Knee” Early



Robertson comes out and looks to take the fight right to the ground, but Early stuffs the takedown. Early then gets a takedown himself and the two men are right next to the cage. Robertson easily gets it back to full guard but then looks to sweep. Early defends the sweep perfectly but Robertson creates a little bit of space and turns his body right in to an armbar. Robertson quickly extends the arm and Early taps out at :48 seconds of the first round. The fight went the way I thought it would, I just thought it would last a little longer.



“The Viking” Agnar Gorm versus Lotas Mauras



Mauras comes out and sticks Gorm right in the nose. Gorm drops down and gets the takedown right after taking the shot on the button. Mauras doesn’t look bad at first getting into closed guard. Gorm starts throwing strikes and slips into half guard. The two men are pressed against the cage and Gorm throws a big shot and as Mauras reacts Gorm grabs a kimura. That’s all she wrote for the big striker, Mauras taps out in less than a minute. Gorm is your winner at :58 seconds of the first round via submission. Well I can’t call all of them right, but that is my first prediction I got wrong, big ups to Agnar Gorm.



Austin “Hollywood” Worner versus Gabriel “DaBeast” Douglas



The first round was complete domination for Gabriel Douglas. Douglas was landing very nice strikes, nothing devastating but some very nice accurate shots. I lost count of how many unsuccessful takedowns Austin Worner had because of Douglas’s awesome takedown defense. Things did look to get a little dicey for Douglas as Worner was able to clinch and it looked as though he was going to get a takedown. Douglas was able to defend it and get back out to range where he slapped Worner around for the last minute or so. I scored this round in favor of Douglas 10-8.



We get to see much of the same in round two. A massive amount of stuffed takedowns from Worner as Douglas just pelted him with accurate shot after show. Douglas looked very classy out there with his boxing in the second round, changing levels and countering anything that came near him. Worner was unable to even get a full clinch in the second round and it really looked like an amateur against a pro in this round. Once again I have Douglas winning 10-8 in round two. This fight has been so one sided even if Worner is somehow able to finish in the third I think I would still want to give the win to Douglas.



Douglas comes out striking like he is down two rounds not up at the beginning of round three. He seemed to hurt Worner early but did not capitalize on it. Worner then continued to get takedown after takedown stuffed and Douglas made him pay for it. Once we hit the 3:00 minute mark it seemed Douglas knew he had the fight won and he laid back and just looked to counter. Worner then looked to strike a little bit as he went wild but nothing was landed that mattered. Douglas continued to smack around Worner until the final bell sounded. I think Worner did head and shoulders better in round three but I still scored the round 10-9 Douglas. I had Douglas winning 30-25 but all the judges seen it as 30-27. Gabriel Douglas wins via unanimous decision.



Arshnoor “THE BURTALIZER” Singh versus Viet “Maokhamphiou” Lights Out



In the main event we have two strikers looking for knockout victories. One a Muay Thai striker and the other a boxer so it promises to be a good one and it did not disappoint. The first minute of the fight Lights Out threw some big shots, but Singh was able to avoid most of them. Singh landed a few punches and some very nice kicks to the mid-section and legs of Lights Out. Singh dumped it on after words dropping Lights Out with a leg kick. Back to his feet he takes a big kick to the stomach and then two head kicks that absolutely rock Lights Out. A big hook knocks Lights Out to the mat, and Singh follows up with some more shots to the head as the ref has to step in and stop the fight. Singh wins by TKO via strikes at just 1:19 of the first round.



As stated before a big time card to end the ICON project here in Las Vegas. Wayde West wins Knockout of the Night. Submission of the Night goes to Agnar Gorm. Last but not least you’re Fight of the Night winner Arshnoor Singh versus Viet Lights Out. I was just handed some new information for everyone to hear. Our owner Dan Monk has extended the partnership with Meet the Future so please grab all of your fighters needs from there. The next time you will be hearing from me will be under the Honor Fighting Championship brand name.



This has been Tony Rossi with your review of the final ICON card here in Las Vegas. All opinions in this review are those of the writes and may not be the views of Honor Fighting Championship. This article is owned by HFC and may not be reproduced or reused without written expressed consent from HFC.

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[SteelPenn]

Rickson Cozad: Welcome to another edition of MMA Today with your host, Rickson Cozad. Today I caught up with new Heavyweight Champion Kyle Collins, and was lucky enough to get a few words from him. Hey Kyle, thanks for taking a minute to talk to us. You're almost unblemished in your run at SPFT, tearing a warpath straight to the heavyweight title. How does it feel to be champion?


Collins: It's great man! I'd been waiting for the opportunity to fight for the belt, and when I got the opportunity I knew I couldn't let it slip.


Cozad: Now that you've decisively ended the Benny Winkler feud, do you have any words for him?

Collins: Haha! I wouldn't really call it a feud. He landed a good shot on me in the first fight, but I had the first two rounds. Not to take anything away from him, he's a good dude but I still think it was a fluke. I had to get him back, and I did...twice... Na but seriously, I have nothing bad to say about him, he wanted a war and we put on a show. Not much more you can ask for in an opponent.


Cozad: Who do you think deserves the next shot at the strap?Collins:That's a tough one. There is a good amount of top level guys in the division, so I'm sure whoever ends up with the title shot will deserve it. I just hope whoever it is will show up ready for a scrap.

Cozad:Any plans of moving up or down in weight class to face new challengers?


Collins: I'm just taking it one step at the time, if you asked me that after my fifth title defence then maybe. But for now I'm happy where I'm at. Plenty of time for that later on!


Cozad: Want to make any shoutouts or call outs?


Collins: Shoutout to my team man, those guys know how to fight! Most of them have fights coming up so I'm back to being a fan for a little bit haha. No call outs, I'm at the top of the food chain so it's up to everyone else to do the talking.

Cozad: Thanks again for taking the time to talk to us today.

Collins:No problem man, thank you.

Mail from: Steel Penn - ICON Written by puebloescobart

[SteelPenn]

This is Mac Jones with MMA Today. I'm fortunate enough to catch a few minutes with James Penn, Hello, James. Welcome to the show.
You are obviously a very experienced and respected grappler, but you made your debut in mixed martial arts matches. Which style of combat do you prefer?

Penn - My father started me off in BJJ and it was all I knew for the first half of my life. Once I started in the public gyms and seen the younger fighters who where more versed in the arts then I was it made my jealous. I felt like a one trick pony so I turned to these younger fighters and asked to join them in their training sessions. Next thing you know I'm an MMA fighter. No turning back now.

Jones-Your only loss in a pure grappling match was in the TWGC 4 finals. Any thoughts or plans on avenging that L?

Penn-Yes sir. I felt I was the better grappler and still do. Next time I will not fail myself or my fans.

Jones-As an MMA fighter, you have had a wry successful start to your career, wracking up a number of wins in quick succession. Are there any heads in your division you'd like to put on the chopping block?

Penn-If the division is a chopping block you better get a bigger basket. All heads are on the block. I want to be clear to the rest of the division, the org for that matter. I am coming for you all, and hell is coming with me.

Jones-Do you feel that being managed by Steel Penn himself has afforded you any benefits in this org? Do you see a possible conflict of interest in this arrangement?

Penn-Steel Penn is a back room pen pushing geek who could not run an org if he tried. There should be no conflict here as Steel has un bias staff doing the match making in the org so all should be fair.

Jones-What is your proudest moment as a fighter? What was your biggest win to date, in your own opinion?

Penn-I have not experienced that moment your referring to yet. I want a belt and nothing else matter. I'm not looking to be second best and until I get a belt I'm just a challenger.

Jones-Have you face anyone that you would like to meet in the cage again?

Penn - I try not to look backwards so, no. All that matters is who is next.



Jones-Where do you see your career going from here?

Penn- Well, I see myself holding a belt or two in this org before my days here are done.



Jones-Any last words for the fans, or the other fighters in your division?

Penn - To my fans, thank you for the support it means the world to me. As for the division, I will talk to each one of you in the cage.



Jones-Thanks for taking the time to talk with us. It's been a pleasure. -

Penn-The pleasure was all mine. Thank you.

[SteelPenn]

MMA TODAY with Mac Jones and Rickson Cozad
-------------------------

Cozad: Good evening, fight fans, and welcome back to another edition of MMA Today. I'm Rickson Cozad.

Jones: And I'm Mac Jones. At Steel Penn-ICON, we've been watching the drama unfold in several divisions as titles change hands, and those who could be the next champion battle it out for the chance to sit next upon the throne.

Cozad: They say a fighter is only as good as his last fight. Today, we are going to take a look at the champions at Steel Penn-ICON and their last fight, be it a title defense or their assent to the highest place in their respective divisions.

Jones: I want to start with the little guys, because honestly Tyrion Lannister is one of my favorite fighters here at ICON. This guy has street cred, having held belts in three consecutive organizations. He has an iron chin, world class grappling skills and the heart to go five rounds with anyone in front of him.

Cozad: Despite being finished in his ICON debut, suffering the only knockout loss of his career at the hands of Lager Assassin, Lannister has since then redeemed himself.

Jones: In his last title defense, which happened at SPFT 222, Lannister faced knockout artist Billy Bob, and had the chance to prove that his debut loss was a fluke. Bob cut Lannister very early in the fight with some vicious punches, but after that it was all Lannister.

Cozad: I thought the fight was boring. I'm sorry, but it was basically Lannister holding Billy Bob to the ground while Billy Bob squirmed around underneath of him. Not too much happened, and everyone went home a little richer.

Jones: I felt that it showed a dominant grappling performance by a master of submission defense. Billy Bob tried to shoot every submission in the book from the bottom position, but Lannister held him at bay and controlled the position and pace of the fight.

Cozad: To each his own. I like to see fighters fight each other. Maybe it's just me, but I like to see a fighter try to finish a fight. And that, my friends, brings us to the ICON 170 lb champion, Glenn Benton. This guy just has a ton of heart and experience, and he will do anything he can to finish a fight, every time he steps in the cage. Only fifteen of his fifty two fights have gone to decision.

Jones: Unfortunately, almost as many have been the result of him getting flatlined. A lot of people wondered how this guy managed to get the belt, and nobody was more surprised than me when turned his game around.

Cozad: Benton's last fight is the perfect example of the type of fight that the 170 lb champ brings to the table. At SPFT 221, he put his strap on the line against Bob Koff, and won by way of decisive knockout after more than twenty grueling minutes of back and forth scrapping.

Jones: I have to hand it to Koff, he was able to hit several takedowns through tour the fight. However, once on the ground Benton was able to escape or force the referee to stand them up. And those takedowns Koff scored came at great price; he attempted to take the fight to the mat fifty three times.

Cozad: In the end, Benton's determination to finish the fight prevailed. Koff barely made it past the opening bell of the fifth and final round before Benton caught him with a wicked haymaker that just put his lights out. Koff is a tough guy, but not many people could take a punch like that.

Jones: Another fighter with the ability to use his hands to stop a fight in dramatic fashion is Middleweight champion John Mayhem.

Cozad: The difference is, Mayhem got straight to the point, and knocked Bryan Habana senseless. It was a brutal ass whooping at the hands of a professional ass whooper.

Jones: With twenty-one knockout victories to his credit, Mayhem definitely knows how to impose his will on a competitor. He is undefeated at ICON since his debut at SPFT 209, and won three of those four fights by knockout.

Cozad: It doesn't matter how much a man trains; you can't prepare for the devastating power that John Mayhem brings to the table.

Jones: And Mayhem has only been finished three times in forty fights. Three. Combine that with the fact that he can punch a hole through a man's face, and you have a very scary man to face in the cage.

Cozad: Another scary man is the Steel Penn-ICON light heavyweight champion, John Conteh. This guy has been just tearing through the division since coming to ICON at SPFT 200, and he claimed his place at the top of his weight class at SPFT 220. In the meantime, he has wracked up a five fight win streak, four of those coming by way of knockout.

Jones: John Conteh has indeed been storming through the 205 lb division. In his recent title victory, former light heavyweight champion Viacheslav Datsik was the most recent victim to Conteh's brutal power. Despite being clinched up tight, Conteh was able to put enough force into a right hook from close range to put the former champ away.

Cozad: Instead of being happy for someone who earns a title shot at light heavyweight, I kind of feel sorry for them.

Jones: Another fresh and as get unchallenged champion is the ICON heavyweight champ,
Kyle Collins. Collins got the strap from Asko Vilenius at SPFT 221, after a five round war that could have gone either way.

Cozad: This is the kind of fight I like; at the end, both fighters are broken and bloody and you can't even tell who won, to look at them. Collins was just way more aggressive, and landed way more shots, and got the judges to agree with his corner.

Jones: Collins showed more versatility than Velenius on the feet, switching back and forth between punches, kicks and a strong clinch game. At the end of the day, he was just the better all around fighter. It will be interesting to see if he has what it takes to stay at the top of the food chain.

Cozad: If we are going on pure size, the top of the food chain would be the ICON super heavyweight champion, Buzz Killington. This dude is a beast. However, if you are only as good as your last fight...

Jones: It's true, Killington did lose his last fight, but he remains the super heavyweight champion. The loss was a failed bid to drop down to heavyweight and face Asko Vilenius, who at the time was the heavyweight champion. This epic battle took place at SPFT 218.

Cozad: Epic in historical significance, with the champions of two divisions facing each other to attempt to unify the belts. However, the fight itself was anything but epic.

Jones: I agree. It almost seemed like more of an exhibition match, with both men showing off for the crowd with five rounds of basic MMA techniques.

Cozad: It was hard to watch. I say that because I kept falling asleep during the bout. Killington seems to perform much better when fighting closer to his natural weight, and has the 265 plus title to prove it.

Jones: The weight cut may have been a factor; however, many see Killington's knockout victory over former super heavyweight champion Freddy Steel as a fluke. After losing three fights in a row at ICON, Killington was facing termination from the company. Instead, by being the only fighter willing and able to fill in on a last minute card at SPFT 215, Killington shocked everyone and pulled a rabbit out of his hat. Now, he sits at the top of the heap, the biggest of the big boys.

Cozad: Mr. Killington had better take his position very seriously; there are other competitors hungry to hold the title, and luck may not be enough the next time around.

Jones: Fate is fickle, but for the moment there it is: the Murderer's Row of champions here at Steel Penn-ICON. Each of these men has scratched and clawed and punched his way to being the best of his peers and his enemies, the baddest men in their divisions. Only time will tell which ones will build a legacy, and which will only hold the belt for a brief time. But all of these men have worked hard to make their mark at Steel Penn-ICON.

Cozad: And that's all the time we have for today. Thank you for tuning in with us today, fight fans.

Jones: We will see you next time on MMA Today, your source of news from your favorite fighting organization, Steel Penn-ICON.

[rlawrence]

Welcome to the RL Studio's pre-fight coverage of SPFT 224 LIGHTWEIGHT Tournament, and Middleweight title event! Hula's Arena in Hilo is expected to be packed to the gills for this one. Let's take a look at our match ups.

 

145lb Enrique Molito v Julian Reis

 

We'll start with our lone featherweight bout between Molito and Reis. This is a match up of two men with something to prove. Molito is coming off a draw and a loss in his last two fights, marring his previous record of 24-2-0. Reis has lost four of his last five. If Reis tries to stand and bang, I'm betting he gets knocked out. If he can get it to the ground? Well, Molito's blue belt doesn't look so good next to Julian's black.

 

155 Domino Kennedy (6-2) v Boros Monet (6-5)

 

Boros chose to fight up a weight class to get the shot at this tournament. Will it pay off? He's had an impressive run lately, winning 3 of his last 4, including a KO. He can make a good showing on his feet, but on the ground? Three losses by submission. Domino is on a hot streak, and looks to come into the fight with some momentum.

 

155 Pale Monster (11-5) v Ben King (3-4)

 

A pair of BJJ brown belts face off, looking to gain momentum! Monster finally broke a 4 match losing streak in SPFT 220, casting aside doubt that he could still compete. King is 8 years his junior, and with a recent win, hopes to break .500 in his MMA career. With better hands, and more experience, Monster is the favorite to bring this one home.

 

155 James Miller (4-0) v Conor Nelson (4-1)

 

James comes to the Steel Pen after an impressive 4-0 start to his career with the WarZone. He's finished more than one opponent with his feet, and has few holes in his game. Coner has been getting his experience with the QFC, preferring a brawling boxing approach to fighting. The QFC is a far cry from SPFT, though, and I expect he'll get a rude welcome to big-boy MMA.

 

155 Hugh Jasshole (4-0) v Deanthony Wagner (6-3)

 

After a three-match saga with Phil Tinker, Hugh finds himself 4-0 at the SPFT. He likes Muay Thai and the ground game. Deanthony is on a 4 match win streak as well, and matches up very evenly. Will Hugh be able to adjust to fighting someone other than Phil Tinker? Will Wagner give him his first loss? We'll have to watch and see.

 

155 Andy Burns (5-7) v Puna Wai (5-5)

 

The recent past of both of these fighters has been brutal. They have suffered heavy losses, and their futures are in doubt. What better match up for the first round of the tournament? This may be our most evenly matched bout of the evening. Be ready for a scrappy battle of wills.

 

205 Brutus Nash (13-7) v Yuya Inoue (26-14)

 

Now we move up to a pair of Light Heavyweight matches. At 33 years of age, and 3-3 for his last six, Brutus needs a win tonight. He can dominate at every area of the game, but needs to get out of his own head. Thirty-nine year old Yuya actually seems to be getting better with age! He's 5-1 for his last six matches, and desperately want to reach the 30 win mark. Very even matchup, but I'm leaning towards the experience of Inoue for this one.

 

205 Arvo Laar (17-15) v DonT Bill (10-9)

 

Recent arrival from Dominance, the second half of Laar's career has been much better than the first. He's 8-2 for his last ten matches, and has become a dangerous outside fighter. Bill, another warrior just over .500, is a mad wrestler, and a perfect example of the excitement that comes from alternating styles of fighting. Laar will want to stay outside, Bill will want to grapple. Throw the dice, but my odds go with Arvo.

 

185 Rocky Scalante (25-18) v Red Redyan (8-9)

 

We drop back down to middleweight now, and take a look at Rocky Scalante. Age 42, with one win in his last nine fights. One. Is it time for him to hang it up? He faces ground fighter Red Redyan in this one, who also is on a string of losses. It's fights like this though, that can end up being some of the most fun to watch. Neither man has anything to lose!

 

185 TITLE MATCH John Mayhem (29-11) v Vlad Kersikov (20-6)

 

This brings us to our coverage of the title match of the evening! Both of these fighters can do it all. Mayhem is trying to defend his belt for the second time, and Kersikov is coming over from Dominance with a straight shot at the title! Both fighters have a granite chin, and a lot of experience. Word on the street is that Kersikov has been more successful against stiffer competition. We'll see soon enough!

 

[rlawrence]

Welcome to RL Studio's post-event and highlight discussion of SPFT 224 LIGHTWEIGHT Tournament, and Middleweight title event! Hula's Arena in Hilo was nearly packed, and the energy was intense! We'll start with coverage of the Lightweight Matchups.

 

145lb Enrique Molito (24-4-1) v Julian Reis (20-14-1)

 

Congratulations to Reis for securing his 20th win! That's two in a row now, and it looks like there has been some new life breathed into a career that some said was floundering. A man possessed, he fended off Enrique's strikes, and continually brought the fight to the ground. Early in the 2nd round, Molito was tapping out, as Julian Reis secured a powerful Kimura submission. Enrique has now gone 3 straight matches without a win. Is the Steel Pen too much for him?

 

 

Winner: Julian Reis, 2nd Round Submission (Kimura)

 

155 Domino Kennedy (6-3) v Boros Monet (7-5)

 

Domino Kennedy's momentum was brought to a screeching halt tonight by Boros Monet's masterful boxing combinations. Kennedy's team has to be kicking themselves for not working harder to implement the grappling game in this match. He tried to stand toe-to-toe with Boros, and paid for it. With only four seconds left in the 1st round it was double-jab, duck, and BOOM the right hook counter, lights out Domino.

 

 

Winner: Boros Monet, 1st Round KO, Punches

 

155 Pale Monster (12-5) v Ben King (3-5)

 

Chokes, Kimuras, and Guillotines, oh my! Grappling fans were not disappointed, as these two brown belts took the game to the ground. As RL Studios predicted, the experience of Pale Monster made all the difference. King made some nice positioning and sub attempts, but Monster kept blasting those strikes on the ground, softening him up. In the third round, from the bottom, Monster got a hold of a loose arm, and subbed King with a triangle.

 

Winner: Pale Monster, 3rd Round Submission (Triangle)

 

155 James Miller (5-0) v Conor Nelson (4-2)

 

When RL Studios predicted that this would be a rough welcome to the Steel Pen for Conor Nelson, we didn't realize how much of an understatement that would be! Highlight films have been showing this KO of the Night in slow motion all day long. Leg kick, body kick, HEAD KICK, and Nelson was rocked. Miller appeared to back away, and then exploded into the air like a rocket, his knee connecting with Nelson's temple, and ending his night prematurely.

 

Winner: James Miller, 1st Round KO, Flying Knee.

 

155 Hugh Jasshole (4-1) v Deanthony Wagner (7-3)

 

"Phil Tinker ain't here tonight", said Wagner to Jasshole, as the referee's unanimously named Deanthony the victor. The fight was messy, with lots of missed shots, and blown takedown and clinch attempts. Hugh wanted to grapple in any way he could, while Deanthony worked with his fists. Try a few less combos next time, Deanthony, it will clean up your game some.

 

Winner: Deanthony Wagner, Unanimous Decision

 

155 Andy Burns (5-8) v Puna Wai (6-5)

 

What do you get when you throw a sloppy head kick? You get taken down, and whipped, when you throw it against Puna Wai. That's what happened to poor Andy Burns tonight. A brown belt should normally defeat a purple belt, right? All bets are off when you're getting punched in the face. Puna managed a big shot while standing, another on the ground, and then secured a Kimura for the victory.

 

Winner: Puna Wai, 1st Round, Submission (Kimura)

 

205 Brutus Nash (13-8) v Yuya Inoue (27-14)

 

Slippery as a snake, Yuya Inoue snatched victory from the jaws of defeat tonight. Nash cut Inoue early, and won both the 1st and 2nd rounds with his boxing skills. Yuya would have to finish, or would surely lose the match. With less than 2 minutes remaining, he grabbed Brutus's free arm, stepped over his head and cranked it for the Submission Victory of the NIght!

 

Winner: Yuya Inoue, 3rd Round, Submission (Kimura)

 

205 Arvo Laar (18-15) v DonT Bill (10-10)

 

What a match! They're standing, and Laar is scoring with punches and kicks. Bill scores a takedown, and is transitioning and striking! Round 1 goes to Arvo, Round 2 goes to Dont. The key moment came in Round 3, when Bill made a move for full mount. Arvo dug deep, extricating himself from the position, and getting back to his feet. One point was all that separated the fighters on the scorecards, but it was Arvo's hand that was raised.

 

Winner: Arvo Laar, Unanimous Decision

 

185 Rocky Scalante (25-18) v Red Redyan (8-9)

 

Scalante is baaaaaaaaaaack! With just one win in his last 9 fights, he needed to show he was still capable of fighting. Red waited for a chance to bring the fight to the ground, but it never came. High kick, right-left, left-right, and it was over! Thirty seconds and Redyan was snoozing on the floor.

 

Winner: Rocky Scalante, 1st Round, KO

 

185 TITLE MATCH John Mayhem (29-12) v Vlad Kersikov (21-6-2)

 

The belt on the line! John looked sharp at the beginning of the match, scoring with some leg kicks, and cutting Kersikov with a punch. The blow staggered Kersikov, and some thought he might be in trouble. Not tonight. That cut changed everything, and Kersikov transformed into an unstoppable force. It turned into an expose on standup fighting, mixing punches, and kicks with great effect. Just one minute into the 2nd round, Mayhem blinked on a counter. Kersikov spun and landed a reverberating head kick. Mayhem's lights were instantly snuffed out, and he dropped like a stone, unconscious.

 

Winner, and new Middleweight Champion! Vlad Kersikov, 2nd Round, KO, Head Kick

 

 

 

[Guest]

MMA Today

----------------

 

Jones: Hello SPFT fans; welcome back to another edition of MMA today. For today's episode I've flown all the way to beautiful Hilo, Hawaii to catch a few words with 170 lb champion Glenn Benton at the Irish Collar-And-Elbow Academy. So Glenn, how does it feel to be at the top of such a competitive division?

 

Benton: It feels fantastic. It is no secret that my career has not been very glamorous. Before signing with Steel Penn=ICON, I was ready to pack it up and go back to Livepool and see if I could find work as a bodyguard or bouncer. Mr. Coggins talked me out of it. He said my best years were still ahead of me and to concentrate on training and he would put me in the position to suceed. I have to be honest, going into the Montana fight I had my doubts.

 

Jones: If you get past Berzevaco, who is next on the chopping block?

 

Benton: I was told there was a possibility of a re-match with Montana, but that appears to have fallen through. It looks like something is going to materialize between another veteran in the division and myself. From what I have been told, I should be facing the next highest ranked P4P fighter in the division after myself.

 

Jones: Has your brawling style helped you to get to the top of the division?

 

Benton: To some extent, I believe that it has. However, early in my career I think I was too focused on the stand up game. Growing up in Liverpool I was, like most British youths, and extremely passionate about football. I seemed to have a preverse need for confrontation, however, as I became a life-long United fan. As you would expect, this led to many altercations, and enevitably started me on a path toward MMA, ultimately to keep me out of the brig. Most of those altercations were standard 'soccer holigan' fist fights and that is what I took into MMA.

 

Jones: You've been under the wing of several managers throughout your career, and are currently signed with Cian Coggins. Have there been any vast changes since signing on to new management?

 

Benton: There was a shift in the game when I first signed with Mr. Coggins. When he signed me he was adamant that i start working on my ground game. Then he made a trade with Mr. Penn and opened up my current gym and I think the focus is starting to pay off. I believe I am able to keep the fight where I want it more easily. In turn, this allows me to showcase my boxing skills and entertain the crowd more readily.

 

Jones: Is there anyone in the division who you would like to fight in defense of your title?

 

Benton: It is a decently strong division and I would like a shot at Barral, but his recent losses have taken him out of the picture for now, I think. I will fight whomever SPFT puts in front of me, of course, but I think Montana, Berzevaco or Johansson deserve the next shot.

 

Jones: What are your plans from here? Now that you're at the top of the mountain at Steel Penn-Icon, what's next for Glenn Benton?

 

Benton: At this point in my life, I think my career and its success, or lack there of, is tied to the success here at SPFT. I am not making any final decisions, or discounting any possibilities, but I suspect that I will probably retire when SPFT no longer wants to pick up my contract.

 

Jones: We're almost out of time here, I see Mr. Coggins over there looking at his watch. Do you have any shout-outs you'd like to make before we go?

 

Benton: Well, of course, I want to thank Mr. Coggins and his management team for helping get me to this place in my career. I also want to send out my love to the trainers and training partners and The Irish Collar and Elbow Academy. Without them I would not have had the success I am enjoying recently. Also, Mr. Steel Penn has always been a quality individual and having met him through Mr. Coggins, i can honestly say he is one of my idols and a business man I would hope to pattern myself after when my fighting days are done. Above all, though, my LOVE goes out to my wife Brenda and my children; Glenn Jr., Gaston and Bridgitte. Without them I am nothing, but a holigan without direction. I was hoping to return to Britain one day after my fighting career, but I think the family has grown used to the lifestyle and weather here in Hilo and would leave me if I tried to move them.

 

Jones: Good luck in the future, Mr. Benton. And to all of you at home, tune in next time to MMA Today, your direct line to all the news at Steel Penn- ICON.

[rlawrence]

SPFT 225

 

Welcome to RL Studios prefight coverage of SPFT 225, in Hiloooooo! Three club belts are on the line tonight, and the energy is smoking!

 

135 Hans Lankari (18-28) vs. Bruce Banner

 

We have a rematch! Banner somehow managed a decision in this last matchup, and most of the MMA world thought the judges were on crack. Just because Lankari is thirty-seven years old, and loses most of his fights doesn't mean he deserved to lose this last one. He's gotten what he's asked for, though, and we'll see who convinces. If Banner plays a little more strategically with his fists, I think he'll repeat with a win.

 

145 Nycky Downtime (32-30-2) vs. Kim Figueroa (32-7)

 

After a 5-match feud with Ivan Putski, Kim Figueroa is finally facing another opponent. He took 4/5 of those battles, and although he lost the last one in a split decision, no one can be in doubt that he is the better fighter. No one but himself; word on the street is that he has taken this loss very badly. How will this translate in his match against grizzled veteran Nycky Downtime? Down time has fought 64 matches. Sixty - Four. On paper, Kim looks like the better fighter, but with his morale in the tank, I wouldn't bet against Downtime in this match.

 

185 Bob Backlund (7-7) vs Leo Vieira (18-28)

 

Elite wrestling and submission master Bob Backlund faces off against balanced brawler Leo Vieira. . I love Bob's work on the ground, but in his last fight he walked into a 9 second KO punch. Viera is a new arrival at the Steel Pen, having fared quite poorly in Valhalla and the Hilo Fight Club. Could this be the place he turns it around? Anything can happen in MMA, but I'm betting on a sub for this match.

 

205 Franklin Diggins (11-20) vs. Drago Maximov (6-8)

 

Franklin has been 'Diggin' his way to the worst record in MMA. With six straight losses, one has to wonder why he would put himself through this. Every fighter has a perfect match, though, and Drago Maximov might by his. With only one win in his last six fights, Drago isn't looking much better. Can he get a W and turn things around?

 

265 Jussi Junta (13-8) vs. Vladimir Petov (12-10-2)

 

In July of last year, Jussi Junta was 13-3. He's lost five straight matches, and left AMS for the Steel Pen. Petov is in his third match with the Pen since coming over from a reeling experience with the Dominion. Both fighters looking to prove themselves, and solid match up of skill in this one.

 

265+ Zephyrus Belenus (4-3) vs. Alexander Gustavssen (5-8)

Zephyrus and Alexander are both new to the Steel Pen. You've got to love his 'kill or be killed' attitude. He hasn't been in a decision fight yet, always finishing or being finished.

 

265+ Ron Artest (10-2) vs Nat Timmons (10-4)

 

A great even match between a pair of winners in this match! Ron is new to the Steel Pen, and on a 3-match win streak! He likes to mix it up with his hands and feet. Timmons is 2-2 with SP, and preferes to work the clinch, using his Muay Thai. He hasn't brought the match to the ground much in the past, but this would be the night to do it. Artest has no BJJ experience, and could be taken advantage of there.

 

145 Title Match Jannis Arvaniditis (23-20) vs. Melekh David (25-16-1)

 

Jannis has fought for belts in four different orgs., and is getting a straight shot for the Steel Belt tonight! Boy does he like to finish; 21 of his wins come from subs or TKO! David is also a new acquisition from Ascension, and can ground fight with the best of them. Who will be the new king of the 145lb class?

 

170 Title Match Glenn Benton (31-21) vs. Hakeem Berzevaco (29-17)

 

Glenn is a long time member of Steel Pen, and faces his 2nd title defense tonight. He's a workhorse on his feet, and warrior with over 50 fights. Hakeem comes over from Hilo Fight Night, and is an daunting well-rounded opponent that has seen success in every aspect of the game. His morale is a touch low for this one, and it's anyone's match!

 

205 Title Match John Conteh (22-10-1) vs. Ryan Blundell (9-5)

 

Conteh has six straight wins, leading to his claiming the belt over Datsik last month. He is an elite boxing clinch fighter, and has finished 16 fights with TKOs. Blundell has two straight wins at the pen, and is every bit the boxer that Conteh is, but can he manage John's clinch fighting skills? Can he hold up against his experience? Watch with us to find out!

 

[Guest]

MMA Today with Rickson Cozad

-------------------------------------------

 

Good morning everyone, and welcome to another episode of MMA Today, the only sports show bringing you all the latest news from everyone's favorite fighting organization, Steel Penn-ICON! I'm your host, Rickson Cozad, here today with a special segment: SPFT Manager Spotlight.

 

To meet with our first manager, Steel Penn had to shell out some dough to fly me to bright and busy Las Vegas, home of legal gambling, prostitution, suicides and Dillon Weber, an up and coming manager here at ICON. Thanks for taking the time to sit with us today, Dillon. I know you are in a hurry to meet up with your fighters. Let's get right to the point, shall we?

 

 

Cozad- What made you decide to sign your fighter to Steel Penn- ICON?

 

Weber- I signed up my guy because I was truly tired of the quick fights.

 

 

 

Cozad- How has your experience been?

 

Weber- My experience has been really good I like it here.

 

 

Cozad- What are some of the highlights of your management career?

 

Weber- Having most of my guys get the fight bonuses.

 

 

 

Cozad- What is your worst moment as a manager?

 

 

Weber- Having a guy not even have a win.

 

 

Cozad- Do you have any advice for other managers who are just starting out?

 

Weber- Keep up with your fights bank and dont have them fight outside of where they stay to much.

 

 

 

Cozad- What are some fights you'd like to see take place within ICON?

 

 

Weber- My fighter versus the champion.

 

 

Cozad- What managers at ICON would you most like to face?

 

 

Weber- Any and all.

 

 

Cozad- Who would you be nervous about fighting at ICON?

 

Weber- Im not nervous to to fight anyone.

 

 

 

Cozad- Is there anything about ICON that you particularly enjoy or appreciate?

 

Weber- You guys run a great organization.

 

 

 

Cozad- What would you like to see done differently?

 

Weber- Nothing really.

 

 

 

Cozad- Do you have anyone to thank or any shout outs?

 

 

Weber- No, not at this time.

 

 

Cozad- What are some goals you have set for your ICON fighter(s)?

 

Weber- Getting the championship

 

 

 

Cozad- Any last words before we wrap this up?

 

 

Weber- Lets make it memorable.

 

 

Cozad-Thank you for taking the time to participate and talk to us today.

 

Weber- No problem, thanks for having me on.

 

Cozad- A busy man, brief and to the point. Definitely one to watch out for here at ICON! A man of few words and much action, Dillon Weber will likely be a force to reckon with at ICON for some time. Tune in next time for more news, interviews and events from Steel Penn-ICON from your most trusted source of fighting news, MMA Today!

[Guest]

Great writeups.

[rlawrence]

SPFT 225 Post Fight

 

Welcome to RL Studios postfight coverage of SPFT 225, in Hiloooooo! Five finishes, and five matches that went the distance! Let's see what happened.

 

135 Hans Lankari (19-28) vs. Bruce Banner (2-2)

 

Lankari revenges himself! The last match had the judges with blinders on, and tonight, Lankari made sure no one could miss who the winner was. The hulk didn't show tonight, and Banner was left to find for himself. He managed to land ONE punch in three rounds, while Lankari continually brought the fight to the ground, pounding Banner into submission.

 

Winner: Hans Lankari, Unanimous Decision

 

145 Nycky Downtime (33-30-2) vs. Kim Figueroa (32-8)

 

What happens when a wrestler can't get a boxer to the ground? He gets his lights put out! Kim made the first round interesting, with take down and some ground and pound, but Nycky had the heart to stay tough. In round 2, Figueroa's hand dropped, and it was left jab, right HOOOOOOK, good night sweetheart. Downtime gets his 30th win.

 

Winner: Nycky Downtime, KO (Punches), Round 2

 

185 Bob Backlund (8-7) vs Leo Vieira (18-29)

 

Whoa, does RL Studios own a crystal ball? No folks, just experience and first rate, cutting-edge, fight scouting from us. Vieira did better on the ground than we expected, but you just don't want to be down there with Bob. He couldn't keep up, as Backlund showed triangle, followed by some ground and pound, and switching up to an arm bar. Tapping is sweet music to his ears!

 

Winner: Bob Backlund, Submission (armbar), Round 2, Sub of the Night!

 

205 Franklin Diggins (11-21) vs. Drago Maximov (7-8)

 

Diggins took another step backwards tonight with his 7th straight loss. There was just nothing he could do. Maximov punched, kicked, clinched, and pounded Frank on the ground. Franky baby, the guys appreciate the workout, but it may be time to think about your health.

 

Winner: Drago Maximov, Unanimous Decision

 

265 Jussi Junta (14-8) vs. Vladimir Petov (12-11-2)

 

What a ground match! Jussi Junta righted his struggling ship tonight with a much needed win. There were at least 12 reversals, with fists flying, and sub attempts coming from all positions. Petov kept it very close, and there were moments I thought he might steal the show.

 

Winner: Jussi Junta, Unanimous Decision

 

265+ Zephyrus Belenus (5-3) vs. Alexander Gustavssen (5-9)

 

Head shot! Unbelievable! Gusatvssen, with Sensational Boxing skills and granite chin, went down hard under a barage of agressive head punches! Most would have said Belenus shouldn't try to stand toe to toe with him tonight, but he proved us all wrong. Another finish, and a fine KO. I'm a believer in this guy, baby.

 

Winner: Zephyrus Belenus, KO (punch), Round 2

 

265+ Ron Artest (10-3) vs Nat Timmons (11-4)

 

Whoa, what? Artest clinched, he took Timmons down, he punched and kicked, and he lost. Maybe it was all the failed clinch attempts that sullied the refs' opinion to him. By my count, Artest actually landed more blows, but Timmons was more active, and sure fun to watch. He launched more than thirty- five kicks, alternating from low to high. Hey, in a close match, the flashier fighter wins.

 

Winner: Nat Timmons, Unanimous Decision

 

145 Title Match Jannis Arvaniditis (24-20) vs. Melekh David (25-17-1)

 

Ever had things going just right only to have them blow up in your face? That's how Melekh David must feel tonight. The match went to the ground early, with David managing a reversal and the top position. Like butter, he passed Arvanidiitis's guard and ... SWOOSH, Jannis becomes a ninja, disappearing from David's grasp and going straight to his back! The hail storm started then ... a hail storm of fists, that is, and the ref had to intervene.

 

Winner, New Champion: Jannis Arvaniditis, TKO (strikes), First Round

 

170 Title Match Glenn Benton (32-21) vs. Hakeem Berzevaco (29-18)

 

Spinning backfist of death! Holy 50 second knockout batman! It started fast and furious with and even exchange of blows, but Benton's power and combination work was just too much for Hakeem. He got up off the floor once, looking for more, and he got it. Left, right, spin, BOOM. This match rightly got the KO of the night.

 

Winner, and still champion! Glenn Barton, KO (strikes), Round 1

 

205 Title Match John Conteh (23-10-1) vs. Ryan Blundell (9-6)

 

Straight up boxing, and Fight of the Night award, in this title defense! The grizzled vet meets the new comer, and the vet walks away with the decision. Conteh used an interesting 'body shot' first approach, but I wonder if he would have done even better going to the head more. Regardless, the question is, "What do you get when you throw 130 solid strikes versus your opponent's 75?" Answer" You get to take the belt home with you again.

 

Winner, and still champion! John Conteh, Unanimous Decision

[rlawrence]

SPFT 226

Welcome to RL Studios prefight coverage of SPFT 226, in Hiloooooo! A pair of title fights and a whole lot of drama in the ring tonight! Let's view our match-ups.

 

135 Billy Bob (26-20) vs. Jason Shields (12-14)

 

Shields, a ground specialist from HFC, in his first battle in the Steel Pen tonight, and he's starting off heavy! Billy Bob, the former 135lb belt holder is looking to get a couple of wins, and hopefully, another shot at his lost title. We predict a quick win for him in this one, Shields just isn't in the same category.

 

145 Ivan Putski (4-7) vs. Era Ojdanic (9-12)

 

Red BEEEEEEEEELT Putski faces Brawler/Grappler Ojdanic. On paper, they both have losing records, but they are a lot of fun to watch when the battle goes to the mats. For Era's sake, we hope he's been working on his striking game. He has no hope on the ground vs Putski.

 

155 Marco Polo(6-9) vs. Zene Zamosa (5-8)

 

Another pair of struggling fighters trying to reach .500 face off in this one. Marco likes the ground game, and has some submissions there. Zene likes to kick and clinch, but showing up to this one in a white belt is a big mistake. Has he been hiding his true talent in the QFC? We'll see tonight.

 

170 Four Loco (23-14) vs. Vintage Vodka (19-13)

 

"The Assassin" Loco is a new arrival from CESC, and faces another new arrival named Vintage Vodka from TTFC. What were their mamas thinking? Hey, crazy names aside, these guys can fight! Loco has 16 finishes, and Vodka has 13. Get ready for an intense match of physicality and tactics here, it's anyone's fight!

 

185 Jeannot Chong Zarbowski Li (8-29-1) vs. Emunn Samvesu (7-16)

 

Jeannot Chong Zarbowski Li ... the only think longer than this guy's name is his loss record. His oppoent Samvesu isn't much better with 16 losses. JCZL get's the edge of he can keep the fight standing, and Samvesu has a chance on the ground. One of these losers should get a W tonight!

 

205 Viacheslav Datsik (32-20) vs. Paul Phoenix (22-9)

 

A pair of seasoned warriors face off tonight! Phoenix has been with Gamma since President Clinton was in office, and Datsik is only 2 years younger. They have waged wars, piling up over 80 pro-fights between them. Datsik has more matches, but the fight is so even, you'll have to tune in to see who pulls it out!

 

205 Brutus Nash (13-8) vs. Darby Gordon (14-7)

 

Just two weeks since his submission loss in SPFT 224, and Nash is back with steel in his eyes! Darby Gordon is a perfect match for Nash; they both box, have wonderful wrestling skills, although Nash has a slight advantage in BJJ. The one with the strongest heart will be the victor tonight.

 

265 Lou Ferrigno (28-23-1) vs. Jim Kelly (29-11)

 

Two colossal fighters with different styles in this one! Lou has favored ground work over his MT skills, and Lou has done just the opposite. Can Lou get it to the ground? He'll need to. Jim is a strike and clinch master with 28 TKO finishes. Can't pick it? Come watch it happen!

 

135 Title Match Tirion Lannister (19-3) vs. Jose Cronos (19-5)

 

An amazing pairing of skills tonight, as Tirion prepares for his first title defense! Can he stand-up to the elite striking skills of Cronos? I wouldn't be surprised to see a new champion in this one. The winner will get the belt, and his 20th W!

 

265 Title Match Freddy Steel (15-8) vs Kyle Collins (6-2)

 

Kyle Collins has been an absolute anomaly at the Steel Pen. He was a nobody in his early 30's. He walked right up the rankings with 4 straight wins, claiming the belt from (20-11) Asko Villenus. Freddy Steel is a former belt holder, and beats Collins on paper in every way? A victory for Collins tonight would silence all of his detractors. Can he do it?

 

 

 

[rlawrence]

SPFT 226

Welcome to RL Studios post-fight coverage of SPFT 226, in Hiloooooo! Nine finishes tonight! Are you kidding me ? Let's look at the carnage.

 

135 Billy Bob (27-20) vs. Jason Shields (12-15)

 

RL Studios should take up a side job in prognostication! As we predicted, Billy Bob was just too much for new arrival Jason Shields. Shields was active on the ground, by Billy was like an octopus. Where did that extra arm come from? 14 Sub attempts, but it only takes one.

 

Winner: Billy Bob, Round 1, Submission (Guillotine)

 

145 Ivan Putski (5-7) vs. Era Ojdanic (9-13)

 

Era made a valiant effort in this match on the ground against Red Belt, Ivan Putski. He survived full-mount in Round 1, but the 2nd Round found him quickly giving his back. What happens when you give your back to a Red Belt?

Winner: Ivan Putski, 2nd Round, Submission (Rear-Naked Choke)

 

155 Marco Polo(7-9) vs. Zene Zamosa (5-9)

 

Zamosa is happy he has that white belt tonight, he has something to use to put his arm in a sling. FORTY SEVEN second sub! It went DING- Double leg take down- Pass to half gaurd-CRANK-Tap out.

Winner: Marco Polo, Round 1, Submission (Arm Triangle)

 

170 Four Loco (24-14) vs. Vintage Vodka (19-14)

 

Holy Kickboxing Batman! These guys came out fast and furious exchanging punches and kicks. Vodka was trying to be more tactical, focusing on body shots and leg kicks. It was too little for the head -hunting onslaught of the ASSASSIN Loco. Head Kicks and punches sent Vodka to the mats, and the ref had to intervene. KO of the night award!

 

Winner: Four Loco, Round 1, TKO (Strikes

 

185 Jeannot Chong Zarbowski Li (8-30-1) vs. Emunn Samvesu (8-16)

 

Oh, and the Fight of the Night Award! It's Chong Li on top, and he's raining down elbows! NO, a reversal, and Samvesu is working sub attempts. Back and forth like eels in a grease pit, and who would be victorious? With only two minutes left, Emunn avoided a sure loss by decision.

Winner: Emunn Samvesu, Round 3, Submission (Guillotine)

 

205 Viacheslav Datsik (33-20) vs. Paul Phoenix (22-10)

 

Did we call this fight even? Well, Phoenix will have to try and rise from the ashes after tonight, because he got smoked. His middle name should be 'punching bag' after this one. He took head kicks, elbows, clinch abuse and more. We're surprised it last until the 2nd round. Kudos to Datsik for putting on a display of dominance.

Winner: Viacheslav Datsik, Round 2, TKO (strikes)

 

205 Brutus Nash (13-9) vs. Darby Gordon (15-7)

 

OH! What a comeback brawl this one was!. Nash is cut in round one, the fights is in the clinch, the fight is on the ground, in Round 2 Gordon is rocked! How did he survive? He's a professional that knows how to dig deep, that's how! He brought the monster overhand punch in Round 3, and BOOM, Nash has his victory snatched away.

 

Winner: Darby Gordon, Round 3, TKO (Strikes)

 

265 Lou Ferrigno (29-23-1) vs. Jim Kelly (29-12)

 

Sub of the night! Lou must have watched our pre-match show. Kelly is a master of knocking people out, and he almost managed another one tonight. Two bone cracking punches left a nasty cut on Ferrigno's skull, but then he drove! Kelly was on the ground, and in 37 seconds the pain of the Kimura was to much for him to bear.

 

Winner: Lou Ferrigon, Round 1, Submission (Kimura)

 

135 Title Match Tirion Lannister (20-3) vs. Jose Cronos (19-6)

 

Master of Tactics! Tirion knew he couldn't stand toe-to-toe with Cronos all evening, and he played it smart. Mauling Cronos in the clinch, beating him on the ground, Lannister showed how important an intelligent game plan is, and kept the belt safe and sound.

 

Winner, and still Champion, by Unanimous Decision, Tirion Lanniser

 

265 Title Match Freddy Steel (65-8) vs Kyle Collins (6-3)

 

Amazing Battle! Collins was 10 seconds from winning his third straight round, and trust me, this battle was all his. He was shocking the world by manhandling another fighter that looked his superior in every way. I was rooting for him. But he blinked, and 10 seconds from from the end of Round 3, zigged when he should have zagged. A powerful right hand sent him down, and from mount, Freddy claimed the belt. Give these boys a rematch!

 

Winner and New Champion, Freddy Steel, Round 3, TKO (Strikes)

 

[Guest]

MMA Today with Rickson Cozad

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Cozad- Good morning fight fans, and welcome to another episode of MMA Today. I'm your host, Rickson Cozad. Today I'm out in the wicked west, the Sin City that they call Las Vegas, to have a brief chat with TJ Siver, one of Steel Penn-ICON's recent additions. Hello TJ, thanks for meeting up with me. What made you decide to sign your fighter to Steel Penn- ICON?

 

Siver- Well I got offered a contract for my fighter to fight in this org so I took it.

 

Cozad-How has your experience been?

 

Siver- My experience is good, cause my guy fought many high level fighters In his old organization.

 

Cozad- What are some of the highlights of your management career?

 

Siver- One of the highlights of my managing career has to be this fighter being in the top 10 of his weight division.

 

Cozad- That is certainly a great achievement. Things seem to be going well for you. Are there any down sides? What is your worst moment as a manager?

 

Siver- The worst was losing streaks.

 

Cozad- Now that you've built some experience, you must have plenty of valuable knowledge on training and fighting. Do you have any advice for other managers who are just starting out?

 

Siver- My advice is surrond your fighter with very hardworking fighters and coaches.

 

Cozad- What are some fights you'd like to see take place within ICON?

 

Siver- I would like to see a fight between my guy and a lightweight fighter.

 

Cozad- What managers at ICON would you most like to face?

 

Siver- I would like to fight any managers fighters.

 

Cozad- Who would you be nervous about fighting at ICON?

 

Siver- I would be nervous fighting for a championship belt.

 

Cozad- Is there anything about ICON that you particularly enjoy or appreciate?

 

Siver- I like ICON because it's filled with so many good athletes.

 

Cozad- Do you have any complaints? What would you like to see done differently?

 

Siver- I would like to see nothing differently at ICON.

 

Cozad- Do you have anyone to thank or any shout outs?

 

Siver- I would like to shout out my gym, Main Event Gym. Thanks for training my fighter.

 

Cozad- What are some goals you have set for your ICON fighter?

 

Siver- Goals that I set for my icon fighter is to be the best he can be.

 

Cozad- Thanks again for coming out today, Mr. Siver. Any last words before we wrap this up?

 

Siver- Lastly I would like to thank my upcoming opponent for accepting this fight and let's give a fight that the fans want.

 

Cozad- And there you have it, a new face on the SPFT scene, TJ Siver. A man of few words with big goals, Mr. Siver will hopefully be a regular face around ICON. And that's all the time we have for today! Thanks for tuning in to your favorite source of MMA news, MMA Today!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thank you for taking the time to participate and talk to us today.

[Guest]

Good evening, fight fans, and welcome to MMA Today! I'm Pueblo Escobart, filling in for your usual hosts for this special edition. Today we will be taking a look at the Big Three, the top pound for pound fighters at Steel Penn-ICON. These are the heroes you love and the villains you love to hate, but either way they keep you tuning in. So without further ado, here are the most wanted men on ICON's murderer's row.

 

Coming in at number three is the lethal Kilafwa "Silk Skin" Tatlumahi, fighting out of the We're Not Really Here Gym in New York. Hailing from the unlikely burg of Agrihan, Micronesia, Tatlumahi is evidence of the worldwide popularity of mixed martial arts. An exceptionally talented kick boxer, Silk Skin has spent his entire career at Steel Penn-ICON, racking up an impressive ten wins with only two losses. While he hasn't yet won a title, this Torrelio Sacana managed fighter has been a terror in the 155 pound division and is currently riding a four fight win streak. Surely it is only a matter of time before the fans get their way and Tatlumahi gets his shot at the strap.

 

Currently riding the number two spot is ICON's light heavyweight champion, John Conteh. The former HEROIC champion, Conteh is a seasoned veteran of over thirty fights, and has tasted victory in the cage an impressive twenty-four times. Even more impressive is the fact that seventeen of those twenty-four victories have come by way of knockout. Hailing from Kirby Liverpool and currently living in St. Petersburg, Russia, Conteh has traveled the world building up his fan base as well as his reputation. A heavy-handed boxer, Conteh has the ability to end any fight at a moment's notice and has defended his belt twice at the top of an eight fight win streak. Managed by the well known and much feared Central Park Wigan, Conteh has the skills and the backing to remain a force at ICON for a long time. He is scheduled to fight again next month against the vicious Arvo Laar, and the fans can't wait to see the explosion.

 

And that brings us to the top of the list, the very top of ICON's pound for pound list, the Dean Sutherland managed Vlad Kersikov. No stranger to success, "The Joker" has worn his trademark war paint to the cage in fourteen different organizations and has amassed a total of twenty-two victories with only six losses and two draws. He has also held the title in five of the top ranked orgs in the world. With a walk-on shot at the 185 pound title, Kersikov established his dominance at ICON and made himself a target for every up-and-coming fighter in the division. He currently rides a three fight winning streak, capped off by a cross-org fight at EVO and a brutal beating of perennial fan favorite Outfuh Blood. Scheduled to defend his strap against Maricue Russel in only a few days, Kersikov is certainly not letting any grass grow under his feet, and the fans are definately appreciative of his efforts.

 

So there they are, the creme de la creme of ICON. Whether you love them or love to hate them, they are definitely three men to keep your eye on, either from the sidelines or in your crosshairs. While the world of MMA is tumultuous and success can come and go as quickly as an overhand right, these men have established themselves among the toughest of the tough and the baddest of the bad. For now, at least, these fighters have proven themselves to deserve a spot at the top of the ranks at Steel Penn-ICON.

 

Well, folks, that's all we have time for today. I'll see you next time on MMA Today, the best source of news from your favorite fighting organization!

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[Rain]

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Looks damm great, especially the brazilian one

[Guest]

Sexy belts, god damn sexy...

[minark]

Thanks

[Guest]

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