FIGHT NEWS UNLIMITED

The number one MMA event in the region, RING OF FIRE, returns with the 1st Annual SUMMERBRAWL series.

On Saturday, August 1st at the Brromfield Event Center, MMA fans will be treated to a minimum of 12 exciting bouts featuring 3 title matches.

In the Main Event, Colorado's fastest rising star Tyler THUNDER Toner takes on the Brazilian Fabio JUNGLE BOY Serrao for the Ring Of Fire Feather Weight Championship.

ROF 145 LB Championship

Tyler Toner Fabio Serrao
9-2 5-1
Aurora, CO Manaus, Brazil

Toner is touted as the next great thing to come out of Ring Of Fire. The promotion has a long history of producing some of the sports biggest names, including most recently Donald Cerrone, Shane Carwin and Eliot Marshall. Toner is also a Strikeforce veteran, but his biggest career win thus far happened just last month in Japan. "Thunder" was able to score a 1st round knockout over Shootboxing legend Kenichi Ogata in one of the biggest upsets in Shootboxing history. Toner is mainly known for his aggressive style, with a strong stand up game honed by mentor Duane BANG Ludwig. Toner will be vacating his ROF Young Guns title to vie for the ROF 145 Championship belt.

Facing Toner will be Fabio JUNGLE BOY Serrao. Serrao is a Brazilian JiuJitsu Black Belt under the legendary Oswaldo Alves. Originally hailing from Manaus, Brazil, he currently trains with BJJ Black Belt and Vale Tudo fighter Eduardo Mori. He has a 5-1 MMA record with 3 submission victories. Being a student of the game and wanting to improve his skills he has sought out Sakasem THE PUNISHER Kanthawong to polish his Muay Thai. Serrao is a also a NAGA Absolute Grappling Champion.

In the feature bout of the evening the dynamic Fabian THE FREAK Acuna clashes with IFL veteran Jon GUNS Gunderson for the Ring Of Fire Light Weight Championship.

ROF 155 LB CHAMPIONSHIP

Fabian Acuna Jon Gunderson
5-1-1 18-7
Santiago, Chile Las Vegas, NV

Fabian Acuna is one of the most exciting fighters on the ROF roster. He has been called a "155 lb Cung Le". After nearly a six year layoff, "The FREAK" returned to action at ROF 34 and needed less than 3 minutes to dispatch Contender Asia star James Martinez. Born and raised on the tough streets of Santiago, Chile, Acuna is on of three brothers with a fighting spirit. A young Acuna channeled his aggression through traditional martial arts first competing in bare knuckle karate matches. Acuna then tried his hand in kickboxing bouts but found the format too limiting. After debuting MMA in 2001 at ROF 3 and winning by a spinning elbow knockout, the tough Chilean has never looked back. Acuna is now making up for lost time and hopes the ROF belt will spring board him in to the big leagues.

Facing Acuna for the vacant belt will be Jon GUNS Gunderson. Gunderson is a former member of Ken Shamrock's Nevada Lions in the now defunct IFL. His career high came in challenging Ryan Schultz for the IFL Championship in February of last year. He has the advantage over Acuna in experience with a 18-7 record. Stylistically this should be a barn burner since Gunderson started his career with a base in boxing. He now trains in Las Vegas at Extreme Couture with some of the best fighters in the world. Gunderson is wanting to get back in the limelight and looks for a win at ROF to give him that push.

The Ring Of Fire SUMMERBRAWL main card is filled with top notch fighters and will also see the return of a few local favorites.

The now vacant 145 Young Guns belt will be up for grabs and Colorado's Brian Wood, and Hawaii's Patrick Kui Gonsalves will have first dibs. The aggressive Justin Salas will face Throwdown Light Weight contender Eddie Pelczynski in a 155 lb contender bout. In a battle of K-1Veterans, Andre Walker faces Swedish fighter Andreas Spang at 185 lbs. And in single bouts former ROF Champion Christian RELENTLESS Allen, and Mike NO EXCUSES Baldwin return to the RING OF FIRE stage.

The preliminary card will feature 2 womens bouts and highlight the top up and coming prospects in the region.

The full fight card will be released next week.

RING OF FIRE 35 PRESALE TICKETS!!

Tickets for RING OF FIRE 35 go on sale to the general public at 10:00 am Monday, July 6th. But ROF fans can get special discount pricing until midnight on Sunday July, 5th!!

Click the image below and enter the password brawl to get your discounted tickets.

How to get Tickets...

TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW!! PRESALE TICKETS CLICKHERE

HOW TO PURCHASE TICKETS:

ON SALE TO GENERAL PUBLIC MONDAY JULY 6TH, 10:00 AM

Available online at www.TICKETMASTER.com
charge by phone at 303-830-TIXS
visit the Broomfield Event Center box office
Visit any Ticketmaster outlet including select Macy's stores, Select F-Y-E Stores, Cherry Creek Shopping Center visitors desk, Angelo's CDs, and Twist and Shout.

Ticket Prices: All tickets subject to facility fee, city tax and parking included (totals $9.50). Online purchases may be subject to an additional fee. Tickets are priced at $25.00, $35.00, and $45.00

SPECIAL VIP TABLE PACKAGES! Call (303) 521-0966 for details.

Final Forum Boxing Promotions teams up with Club Destiny Friday July 3, 2009 in Orlando Florida for the first of a monthly series of boxing events.

In the main event Derric "El Leon" Rossy (20-2, 11 KO's) takes on Moises Droz (13-7, 10 KO's) for the WBC Fecarbox Heavyweight title. Also on the card is Denzel Washingtons famed heavyweight, Damian Wills (23-2-1, 17 KO's) who battles Andrew Greeley in an 8 round contest, and from the recent "Contender" series, Alfredo Escalera (17-2-1, 12 KO's) faces Hilario Guzman in a six round bout. Two other bouts to be featured.

Final Forum Boxing will make a special presentation to former world champion, Pinklon Thomas who is helping youth in the community through his organization "Project Pink". This five-fight boxing event will be aired on webcast live at 8 P.M. EST on www.clubdestiny.tv

Orlando, Florida a premier entertainment destination has spawned a premier destination club. Destiny Nightclub located in the middle of Central Florida's hottest entertainment district has taken Orlando by storm. Orlando known as one of the major "club hubs" in America recently introduced Destiny Nightclub a 23,000 square foot, two level-monster that puts all other clubs to shame. Destiny Nightclub boasts the largest capacity of any club in the city and can be rented as a private venue for events of all sizes.

With heavy-hitter celebrity DJs spinning each and every weekend, Destiny has garnered a reputation for the Best and is considered to be the biggest and best hotspot in all of Orlando. Doors open at 6:30 PM. Destiny Nightclub is located at 7430 Universal Blvd. Orlando Fl, 32819.

by Steve Kim of maxboxing.com

This 4th of July contest isn't the first title eliminator for Chambers on German soil. His bout versus Povetkin in January of 2008 was for the IBF version. In a bout that he controlled early, he inexplicably stopped fighting and was overtaken down the stretch by Povetkin.

“In the fight with Povetkin, Povetkin's eye was swollen, everything like this and Buddy McGirt is my dear friend and Buddy was trying to do the best he could. Buddy was brought in late in that. Nobody mentioned the eye. Certain buttons have to be pushed in an athlete," said Murray.

Chambers promises to not repeat the same mistake. He knows that Dimitrenko enjoys the home canvas advantage this weekend.

"It taught me one thing," Chambers says of lone professional defeat, "no matter how much you have something under control, especially in boxing, it's not to say you can't lose control. And for me, I've seen it. So when you get control, assume control, do not give up anything. Just because it seems like it's getting easy don't back down, don't pull off the gas. First of all, I'm NOT fighting at home, I'm not necessarily going to get a fair decision. I'm not going to say it's going to be a bad decision or anything like that, but you never know with the decisions.
“But first of all, I gotta win and win impressively anyway, just to get a draw. So that fight in itself really taught me what I really have to do and the pressure I gotta put on these guys."

Chambers, despite not being the biggest heavyweight out there, has a solid set of tools: fast hands, elusiveness and the ability to relax. But he can frustrate you at times with the way he fights. In his victory over Peter, he showed an alarming lack of urgency that made what could've been a decisive outcome into a fight he had to eke out. Chambers says that part of the reason he couldn't let his hands go as often as he wanted is because he jammed his right wrist.

But he conceded," I wasn't 100-percent happy, honestly, I felt I could've done more. I rocked him a few times, I really did some serious damage to him mentally, physically throughout the whole fight and I think I had complete control but in doing so I don't think I finished the fight the way I needed to. Maybe I could've finished it before it was supposed to be done - meaning stopping him early. I had all those opportunities, all these things could've been done but I didn't follow up and in that part I was a little disappointed. But with the victory, I was satisfied."

Perhaps one thing that also held him back was the fact that Chambers weighed in closer to 220-pounds than he did to 210.
"I'm not going to say all of that was it, the fact is, me being big or small, I can fight with anybody," he says. "But I think if I would've been smaller, lighter, I would've been able to get off more combinations, sharper shots."

Expect a much slimmer, trimmer Chambers this time around.

“I see something now at 209-pounds," says Murray, who gets excited at the mere thought of it. "I remember Holyfield at his best, 6'1, 212. When Ali was really jumping around, he was 210, 211. He slowed down as he got older and heavier." To Murray, a smaller Chambers is a better Chambers. “I've seen him heavy and I've seen him light. I like what I see lighter. In other words, if you go back to the great heavyweight fighters, champions: Jack Johnson, 6'1, 190-something pounds, maybe at 200. Joe Louis, 190-something pounds. Rocky Marciano, 195-pounds, Most of the great fighters were smaller guys. It goes back to football; your last line of defense is what? Defensive backs, they're stopping jokers and they weigh 190-195 pounds, they're not big guys."

Even in an era where world-class heavyweights look more like defensive ends than free safeties, Murray believes that less is more.
“What I'm saying is, speed is the thing that will get you through everything. Speed and talent and being able to break the defense and do all the things you can possibly do. The lighter Eddie is, the sharper he is."

Win this fight, and he gets a shot at Wladimir Klitschko.

“I gotta tell ya', we all know that Eddie's shown the ability to go out there and be a mesmerizing heavyweight. One that's fast, accurate, can take a shot, can give better than the other guy," said his promoter, Dan Goossen. "But what we've seen with that, is a lack of consistency throughout the fight. For some reason I believe that Rob Murray Sr. has got in his head and I don't know if you've seen this in some of the other interviews he's done, but he's never been so verbally aggressive in what he's going to do in a fight since we've been involved with him and I actually believe what he's saying now. That he believes and if he does, then I think we're in for a great performance and one that might shock a lot of people because I think Eddie Chambers has finally realized how good he is.
“But what he's gotta do is achieve that success."

BERRY BERRY GOOD

Those of you that know me at all know that I'm pretty set in my ways. I take pride in being pretty old-fashioned. Well, some of you may want to sit down - I turned in my beloved old Nextel flip-phone for a Blackberry. Yup, I went from 1999 to about 2005.

First Kim Jong-Ill gets nuclear weapons, now I get a Blackberry. Don't let us Koreans have too many gadgets, we can get crazy. I'm actually taking pictures and videos with my new thing-a-ma-jig and sending them to people. I even put up my own screen saver. I still can't believe it. And get this, you can even browse the internet on this thing. Seriously, when did they come up with that?!? It's amazing. What will they think of next?

I mean, now I'm even thinking of replacing my abacus for a calculator (I’m thinking of going with a Texas-Instruments model) and perhaps even replacing my Vic20 computer. Is this Apple company reputable? You know, progress ain't such a bad thing.

Now, here's the kicker, I even got my own Twitter account (stevemaxboxing) and you won’t believe this, I actually tweeted (that's what the kids call it, right?) from my new thing-a-ma-berry. On this new fangled contraption I plan on giving out whatever boxing scoops and flurries that came up throughout the day.

As for my Walkman, sorry folks, that stays. I have waaaaay too many cassette tapes of Stevie B, Lisa Lisa, Public Enemy, RUN-DMC and Billy Ocean that I still listen to while working out.

FRIDAY FLURRIES

OK, so who got the better end of the Trevor Ariza-Ron Artest swap? I think Artest will give the Lakers a lot of toughness and grit, but he has a tendency to kill ball movement at times.....So that means the Lakers will re-sign Lamar Odom and Shan-Wow Brown, right?.....Seriously, with all the questions about who really fathered Michael Jackson's kids, doesn't it give the song 'Billie Jean' a whole new meaning?...Is there a better one-man wrecking crew than the Padres’ Adrian Gonzalez?....The newest fighter training at the Wild Card Boxing Club is heavyweight Brian 'Fresh' Minto.....Get this folks, I'm also using a Jawbone earpiece....I still can't believe I'm on Twitter. The world may come to an end. Have a great 4th, everyone....

Lou Duva joined "Rabble Rousin'" Rich Bergeron and Tony "The Tornado" Penecale in this week's edition of the Fight News Unlimited Combat Sports Show. Check out Lou's commentary on boxing and Rocky Marciano here:

LOU DUVA INTERVIEW

Fedor Emelianenko-Josh Barnett headline August 1 super show in Anaheim

SEAL BEACH, California (July 2, 2009) – Coming off of his career-defining performance against 3-time UFC® heavyweight title challenger Pedro “The Rock” Rizzo last Saturday night in Biloxi, Dutch knockout artist Gilbert “The Hurricane” Yvel has been added to the Affliction M-1 Global’s star-studded “Trilogy” Pay-Per-View event against another former UFC® heavyweight title challenger, Paul “The Headhunter” Buentello, live August 1 from Honda Center in Anaheim.

Russian combat fighting legend Fedor “The Last Emperor” Emelianenko (30-1-0) defends his WAMMA heavyweight title against No. 1 contender Josh “The Babyfaced Assassin” Barnett (24-5-0), in a highly-anticipated main event.

GoDaddy.com presents Affliction M-1 Global’s “Trilogy,” featuring Fedor vs. Barnett in association with Golden Boy Promotions and Donald J Trump. The show is separated into two live broadcasts on the same night—a one-hour special will air on HDNet starting at 7:30 PM/ET (4:30 PM/PT), followed by the sensational Pay-Per-View event, “Trilogy,” commencing at 9PM/ET (6 PM/PT).
In an awesome display of power striking, Yvel (36-13-1) registered his 31st knockout with five devastating rights in a row on a fallen Rizzo’s face and chin, ending at 2:10 of the first round. “I want to move up to (fight) the champions because I want a belt,” Yvel said after the fight. “I’m learning the ground game. I was patient, relaxed, and kicked-off (Rizzo to the mat).”
Buentello (27-10-0), who originally was scheduled to fight Tim Sylvia, is a 6-2, 245-pound Texan who has beaten David “Tank” Abbot, Justin Eilers, Gilbert Aldana, Kevin Jordan and Gary Goodridge.

The co-main event features former Strikeforce® light heavyweight challenger Renato “Babalu” Sobral (32-8-0) against Armenian kick-boxing specialist Gegard “The Dreamcatcher” Mousasi (25-2-1) in his American debut.

Also on the PPV card is Brazilian bomber Vitor “The Phenom” Belfort (18-8-0), another former UFC® Light Heavyweight Champion, versus Sengoku middleweight title-holder Jorge Santiago (21-7-0). One other PPV fight will soon be announced.

The undercard on HDNet features ex-IFL® Welterweight Champion Jay “The Thoroughbred” Hieron (17-4-0) who will take on former Cage Rage belt-holder, British brawler Paul “Semtex” Daley (21-8-2), along with a pair of exciting, young lightweight prospects, Chris “The Polish Hammer” Horodecki (12-1-0) vs. Dan “The Upgrade” Lauzon (12-2-0) and former IFL® heavyweight titlist “Big” Ben Rothwell (30-6-0) vs. hot, unbeaten prospect Chase Gormley (6-0-0).

Two other HDNet fights have been solidified as featherweight L.C. Davis (13-2-0) meets Javier “Showtime” Vasquez (13-2-0), former KOTC and Gladiator Challenge champion, while former IFL® lightweight challenger Deividas Taurosevicius (10-3-0) faces Mark “The Machine” Hominick (16-8-0). Two off-television matches are also on tap between heavyweights Jessie Gibbs (7-2-0) and Rob Broughton (10-4-1), as well as Brazilian light heavyweight Lucio Linhares (12-4-0) and Michael Zayats (8-3-0).
All fights and fighters are subject to change. For more information go online to www.afflictionclothing.com.

Tickets for Affliction M-1’s “Trilogy” range between $50.00 and $600.00, are on sale at Honda Center Box Office (1.714.704.2500) and also online at Ticketmaster.com and all Ticket Master outlets (1.714.740.2000).

Affliction

Already a mainstay for the most elite athletes, heaviest bands, A-listers and the fashion conscious, Affliction Clothing's ability to set the bar high in fashion is evident in its collection's indulgence of style and design, focus on quality, and its trademark series of divinely executed, dark and powerful themes. (www.afflictionclothing.com)

M-1 Global and M-1 Challenge

M-1 Global has been one of the leading Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) organizations in the world for over a decade. International MMA stars who have fought under the M-1 banner have included Fedor Emelianenko, Andrei Arlovski, Aleksander Emelianenko, Keith Jardine, Alistair Overeem, Yushin Okami, Ben Rothwell, Mike Pyle, Melvin Manhoef, Roman Zenstov, Denis Kang, Martin Kampmann, Omar Suloev, and Chalid Arrab, to name a few. (www.m1mixfight.com)

The Trump Organization

The Trump Organization encompasses global real estate development and global licensing, sales and marketing, property management, golf course development, entertainment, entertainment and product licensing, brand development as well as restaurants and event planning. Donald J. Trump is the Chairman and President of the Trump Organization, a privately held company in New York. (www.Trump.com)

Golden Boy Promotions

Los Angeles-based Golden Boy Promotions was established in 2002 by Oscar de la Hoya, the first Hispanic to own a national boxing promotional company. Golden Boy Promotions currently has over 60 fighters under contract, from future hall of famers Bernard Hopkins, Sugar Shane Mosley and Juan Manuel Marquez to current world champions Ricky Hatton, David Haye, Joel Casamayor, Israel Vazquez and Gerry Peñalosa. Also included on the company’s roster are top contenders Jeff Lacy, Juan Diaz, Daniel Ponce De Leon, Jhonny Gonzalez, Librado Andrade, Rocky Juarez and Rey Bautista; 2004 Olympians Abner Mares, Vicente Escobedo and Rock Allen; and highly regarded prospects Danny Garcia, Jermell Charlo, Hylon Williams and Carlos and Juan Velasquez. (www.goldenboypromotions.com)
###

“The World’s Greatest Ever Boxer” 3-day boxing spectacular Oct. 2-4 at the Paris Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS (July 3, 2009) – Good things often come in small packages, no more evident than in the Flyweight Division of “The World’s Greatest Ever Boxer” promotion, which has been launched and is drawing worldwide interest from boxing fans of all ages.
On-line voting at www.GreatestEver.com allows boxing fans from around the world to select the greatest boxer in each of the original eight weight classes, highlighted by the all-time pound-for-pound “Greatest Ever.”

The eight categories represent the eight original weight-class divisions: Strawweights are included in the Flyweight category; Super Middleweight in the Light Heavyweight division. Many fighters fought and won titles at a number of different weights. As far as possible they have been nominated in the division that they made their biggest impact. Fighters have not been nominated on the basis of whether they would beat another fighter in that division, though this is, of course, a consideration. More importantly is their overall record, who they fought at the time, as well as the impact they made on the boxing world, and indeed the world around them. All nominees are listed in the voting section at www.GreatestEver.com.

The nominations committee was comprised of Thomas Hauser (boxing journalist and award-winning Muhammad Ali biographer), Al Bernstein (broadcaster and boxing analyst), Colin Hart (UK’s leading boxing reporter), Jean-Philippe Lustyk (broadcaster and head of boxing for pan-European sports channel Eurosport) and Ron Borges (boxing journalist and Hall of Fame committee member).

The 10 Flyweight nominees with brief bios, listed in no particular order, follow:

Jimmy “The Mighty Atom” Wilde – 137-52 13 ND (99 KOs)…Welsh…..IHOF inductee...Pro Years: 1910-1923…..first official (IBU) world flyweight champion…..one of the lightest world champions of all-time, weighing between 98-108 pounds…considered by many to be the greatest United Kingdom fighter of all-time..Notable Victories: Johnny Rosner, Young Zulu Kid, George Clarke and Young Jennings.

Pascual “El Terrier” Perez – 84-7-1 (57 KOs)...Argentinean…IHOF inductee…Pro Years: 1952-1964…1948 Olympic Champion…first loss came in 52nd pro fight…first Argentinean world champion…..Notable Victories: Yosioshi Shirao, Dai Dower amd Donny Ursua.

Ricardo “Finito” Lopez – 51-0-1 (38 KOs)…Mexican…..IHOF inductee…Pro Years: 1985-2002…..record holder for most consecutive title bouts without losing (26)…47-bout win streak ended with technical draw (head butt vs. Rosendo Alvarez)…defended WBC Strawweight title 21 times, also WBA and WBO Strawweight and IBF Junior Lightweight champion…Notable Victories: Hideyuki Ohashi, Saman Sorjaturong, Manny Melchor, Kermin Giardia, Alex Sanchez, Rosendo Alvarez, Will Grigsby, Ratanapol Sor Vorapin and Zolani Petelo.

Michael “Little Hands of Steel” Carbahal – 49-4 (33 KOs)…IHOF inductee…American…..Pro Years: 1989-1999…1988 Olympic Silver Medalist…..4-time World Champion…Notable Victories: Will Grigsby, Pedro Feliciano, Muangchai Kittkikaem, Humberto Gonzalez, Josue Camacho and Jorge Arce.

Chartchai Chionoi -- 1-18-3 (36 KOs)…Thai…Pro Years: 1959-1975…3-time WBC Flyweight champion…Notable Victories: Salvatore Burruni, Bernabe Villacampo, Walter McGowan (2), Efren Torres and Fritz Chervet.

Vic “Raging Bull” Darchinyan – 32-1-1 (26)…Armenian…Pro Years: 2000-Present…2000 Armenian Olympian…lives in Sydney, Australia…..WBA, WBC and IBF Super Flyweight champion…former IBF flyweight title-holder…..fighting July 11 for IBF Bantamweight title vs. Joseph Agbeko…Notable Victories: Irene Pacheco, Dimitri Kirilov, Glenn Donaire, Victor Burgos and Cristian Mijares.

Sot Chitalada – 26-4-1 (16 KOs)…Thai…Pro Years: 1983-1992…2-time WBC Flyweight champion…now teaching MMA in California…..Notable Victories: Gabriel Bernal (2), Yong Kang Kim and Jung Koo Chang.

Khaosai Galaxy – 49-1 (47 KOs)…Thai…IHOF inductee…Pro Years: 1980-1991…defended WBA 19 times, winning 16 by KO…longest title reign of any WBA Flyweight title-holder…..Muay Thai fighter…..Notable Victories: Eusebio Esponal and Israel Contreras.
Miguel “El Maestro” Canto – 61-9-4 (15 KOs)…Mexican…IHOF inductee…Years Pro: 1969-1982…lost first pro fight and went on to become WBC Flyweight champion…..holds record for having 13 15-round title fights…Notable Victories: Shoji Oguma (3), Susumi Janagata, Betulio Gonzalez and Antonio Avelar.

Benny Lynch – 81-12-15 (34 KOs)…..Scottish…IHOF inductee…Pro Years: 1931-38…learned skills in carnival booths…considered to be the greatest Scottish boxer of all-time…Notable Victories: Small Montana, Peter Kane and Jackie Jurich.

GREATEST EVER WEEKEND OF EVENTS

Boxing fans attending the festivities will be able to celebrate, up close and personal, the achievements of the World’s Greater Ever Boxers. A three-day boxing spectacular is planned October 2-4 at the Paris Las Vegas, commencing that Friday with an official welcome reception and official weigh in for the following evening’s professional boxing show, presented by Sterling Promotions, and featuring Team USA versus Team Europe, capped by an exclusive after party. The event culminates Sunday with The Greater Ever black-tie awards dinner, featuring some of the greatest boxers ever, as well as world-class entertainment, and then an exclusive after party.

The Retired Boxers Foundation (RBF) is the official charity for The World’s Greatest Ever Boxer. RBF assists retired professional boxers in the transition from their days in the ring to dignified retirement, helping those suffering from alcohol and substance abuse problems, homelessness and effects of pugilistic dementia.

Four ticket packages are on sale for the Oct. 2-4 weekend’s events through agents at the following numbers: North America – The Sports Alliance (914.941.3366) Smart Ticket Solutions (847.917.8497); United Kingdom and Europe – Rock Solid Events (UK: 0845 0945 606, Outside UK: +44 845 0945 606); Australasia – Events Worldwide Travel Group (Australia: 1300 788 666, Outside Australia: +61 3 5989 7666).

The event-only packages are as follows (all prices USD): Super VIP ($2,500), Platinum ($1,900), VIP ($1,400) and Gold ($1,115). The Super VIP, Platinum and VIP packages have a number or premiums in addition to those detailed in the Gold (welcome function, weigh-in, Greatest Ever poker tournament, exclusive Paris Las Vegas gaming area, exclusive memorabilia, movie screenings, access to Greatest Ever dedicated gaming areas and VIP bar, media and legends signings, general seating for the fights and at the awards dinner). Regional agents can provide additional premiums for individual packages.

By: Rich Bergeron

Michael Jackson's recent death has created a gigantic media frenzy around his former estate "Neverland" and whether or not the location could ever be turned into a "Graceland" type of museum. Despite the rampant rumors and press attention on such a convenient and seemingly no-brainer solution to memorializing the fallen superstar, there seems to be a huge uphill battle to fight if that reality is ever to materialize. Still, the legend that is Michael Jackson will never stop a steady flow of regular fans from flocking to Neverland in the future, museum or not. So, the property itself could potentially be very valuable to the current owner, who happens to have a close connection to the 90 percent owners of the UFC, Lorenzo and Frank Fertitta III.

Neverland Ranch Owner Thomas Barrack's Colony Capital helped take Station Casinos off the publicly traded table in early 2007. This bold move allowed the UFC-owning Fertitta Brothers to regain almost complete control of the operations of the old family business, reportedly started by their father Frank, Jr. with a one dollar investment in the 60s. For just a $90 per share buyout the Fertittas and Colony reclaimed the company and in the span of 2 years have driven the business to the brink of bankruptcy, burdened it with an estimated $5.7 billion debt load, and are now staving off creditors to keep hope alive.

Barrack not only has a special place in his heart for Neverland and Michael Jackson, but he also financed Jackson's lavish lifestyle and was a significant investor in the world tours scheduled for the superstar's comeback. Known for taking risks with his fortune, Barrack's position in relation to Jackson's estate might be one of those risks that pays off handsomely or fails miserably depending on the developments to come and the inevitable court battles that may ensue in the wake of the celebrity's death. As for Neverland, all sorts of suggestions are being made for the attraction, one of which calls for dismantling the mansion piece by piece and bringing it to Vegas to make it a tourist attraction, memorial, and museum all in one location.

Whatever happens down the line, Neverland is already playing a central role as the stage for Jackson's public viewing this Friday. This will be the first big test to see just what kind of traffic the area can sustain and whether or not any major commercial development there could ultimately be successful. Though there is some controversy swirling, Barrack is not surprisingly keeping a cool head and encouraging his neighbors to respect the mourners rights to publicly grieve.

Barrack bought Neverland out from under Michael Jackson in May of 2008 when the superstar was having trouble keeping up with mortgage payments. It is obvious the investor and the music legend became fast friends. Barrack rescued Jackson after the entertainer, a neighbor to his own ranch in the area, defaulted on a reported $24.5 million note on the Neverland property. Prior to Jackson purchasing and transforming the location into Neverland in 1988, the property was known as the Sycamore Valley Ranch. Barrack had already made his fortune in crafty real estate investments by the time he took over Neverland and helped find Jackson other suitable living arrangements in Las Vegas. Soon there were talks of a round of Las Vegas shows Jackson could do, and this of course grew to world tour planning proportions. Barrack pooled his resources to fuel the comeback plan and was not the only one putting money in Jackson's pocket to make the star go along with the idea of a fully-involved and dedicated world tour.

It will be interesting to see how Barrack emerges from this situation and how it truly impacts his bottom line. It's doubtful that if he does hit the jackpot on Jacko's demise he'll have enough to bail out Station Casinos and prevent bankruptcy, but he may end up with more to bring to the table for the reorganization. Also, if he gains some rights to use Jackson's image and name to promote their initial "Thriller Casino" vision, the situation could perhaps get enough big money individuals to invest heavily to make the Station Casinos comeback that much stronger.

Despite all the extensions granted by the casino's debtors and other recent news items discussing the company's losses and imminent bankruptcy, it doesn't seem like anyone associated with the company is all that concerned about it collapsing. For instance, Frank Fertitta III just bought a $28 million home on the waterfront in Orange County's Emerald Bay, and Station Casinos is planning what they consider the largest fireworks show in the history of Las Vegas for July 4 this weekend. The Fertitta brothers also benefited from huge 2007 bonuses from stock gains totaling over 100 million for each brother.

Meanwhile, the UFC continues to put on a rapid fire pace of shows in Las Vegas where there is little overhead and they have a ton of connections. Michael Jackson liked the Vegas atmosphere, too, and at times Jackson stayed at Green Valley Ranch, jointly owned by the Fertitta and Greenspun families. Jackson even supposedly attended UFC 84 incognito and wheel-chair bound.

So, it is no surprise that UFC 100 will feature a Michael Jackson tribute. Michael Jackson's death, although tragic and sudden, might have a very beneficial domino effect if it turns out to be one of Thomas Barrack's most ingenious business moves to fund Jacko's last days. Whether all that will mean the UFC ultimately benefits as well will depend on whether Barrack stays heavily devoted to the Fertittas and Station Casinos.

Only time will tell if Neverland becomes Jacko's Graceland and if Barrack's business team can still capitalize on the Jackson situation even despite all the canceled tour woes and obstacles in the way of making Neverland a destination location. They say timing is everything, and Thomas Barrack's timing in this situation has put him in a position to really have some leverage when it comes to Michael Jackson's legacy.

I myself would try to organize a huge festival in Jackson's honor on the Neverland estate and call it "Jackostock" if I were in Barrack's shoes. Make it a benefit concert to help Jackson's favorite charities, and everybody wins. Who's with me?

Shawn Tompkins, Ricardo Liborio and Greg Nelson share the spotlight this week

Friday, July 3, 9:00 p.m. ET

WHAT: This week on "Inside MMA," HDNet's original MMA news program, some of the best trainers in the business share their insight into the brutal and exhausting training regimes of top MMA fighters. Hosts Kenny Rice and Bas Rutten are joined this Friday by Xtreme Couture's Shawn Tompkins, who has trained Randy Couture, Forrest Griffin and others; American Top Team's Ricardo Liborio, trainer to Mike Brown and Thiago Alves; and Minnesota Martial Arts' Greg Nelson, who has worked with several UFC champions, including Brock Lesnar and Sean Sherk.

To catch a preview of the program, click on the following link:

http://blip.tv/file/2312395/

HDNet's "Inside MMA" is the first and only one of its kind - an original, weekly television program devoted completely to news and highlights from the world of Mixed Martial Arts. Hosts Kenny Rice and Bas Rutten are joined by the sport's top fighters and news-makers every week to discuss and analyze the latest in MMA. The program also includes event highlights, viewer mail, and Ron Kruck providing up-to-the-minute news and features with Kruck's Korner. "Inside MMA" has become the hottest Mixed Martial Arts program on television, giving fans their weekly fix of everything MMA.
Since the program's inception in September of 2007, "Inside MMA" has covered some of the biggest stories in the business, presenting interviews with the biggest names involved. From Randy Couture's legal battles with the UFC to Seth Petruzelli's upset win over Kimbo Slice - and the Florida State Athletic Commission's investigation of that fight, to the fall of EliteXC, "Inside MMA" has covered it all.

"Inside MMA," HDNet's weekly series covering the latest news, rankings, stats and highlights from the world of Mixed Martial Arts airs every Friday at 9:00 p.m. ET.

WHEN: Friday, July 3 at 9:00 p.m. ET on HDNet

Des Moines, IA- June 30, 2009- Men oft times go by many names. In the case of our June High School Wrestler of the Month, Morgan McIntosh, the moniker of champion has been attached to his God given name nearly as many times as the number of years he has spent on the planet. As a registered member of the Kickapoo tribe of Oklahoma, he is also known as Ane Kwa peta.

Morgan is 16 years old, a resident of Santa Ana, CA, where he completed his Sophomore year at Calvary Chapel High School in Costa Mesa. Morgan entered Calvary Chapel as a Freshman, having completed his years of home schooling, a formula that has proved successful for his four siblings before him, Morgan being the youngest.

Morgan grew up surrounded by strong work ethic, and with a preponderance for what it takes to become a wrestler, let alone a champion. Morgan's parents, Brooke and Rebecca, contributed greatly, and provided appropriately, to allow him to participate in countless clubs and competitions, along with the travel that was required. Brooke, a professional horse shoer for 30 years, and a former wrestler himself, exhibited the balance of strength and skill Morgan picked up, applying it to thousands of hours on the mat. Morgan's engagement with wrestling began easily and instantly when Rebecca located a flier for a local club, instantly perking Morgan's interest. Days later, the birth of a champion wrestler.

Fast forward to his high school career, where he completed his freshman year , going 41-5, and securing 5th in state at 160 lbs. This year he finished with the 171 lb. title, in the nations most populous state, and where 820 schools compete in a single class. He carried a 43-0 perfect season record, and earned the Champion of Champions Award, a result of voting among his peers, based on his complete personal presentation, both on and off the mat. As can be expected of Morgan, he accepted the award with understated humility.

The road from age 7, when he entered the sport, to his most recent state title, is one paved with complete dedication, as well as requisite challenges. As Morgan was home schooled during his elementary education, wrestling provided a great source of interaction with other kids his age. His parents pursued every opportunity that was possible for Morgan to learn, train, and compete. He competed in the USA Nationals as many times as the family was able to afford, always finishing in the top three for Freestyle, placing three times in Greco, including 1st Place, and was a Folkstlye National Champion.

Along the way, he has also been a State Freestyle and Greco Champion, a two time triple crown winner, twice the Junior High Freestyle Champion, and was awarded the Most Valuable 8th Grade Award title. He also credits a Tulsa Nationals title to his name.

He faced one of his greatest challenges in April during the Junior Western Regionals in Las Vegas, when he dislocated his elbow, still finishing 4th. The McIntosh family feared he would be sidelined for the Summer, although Morgan bested all predictions and recovered in time for the Cadet Nationals in Fargo. He completed the event as a finalist in both tournaments, ultimately losing at 189 lbs. to Andrew Campolitano of New Jersey, the second ranked high school wrestler for the past season.

Morgan's experience and success on the mat certainly defines well rounded. Impressive records, varied styles, multiple weight classes, and the titles to his name only begin to describe him as a person. He is a avid reader, and excels in History, and Social Sciences. He always delivers an A in Bible studies, and takes an active role in his schools Youth Group, making contributions to many different communities.

Head Calvary Chapel Coach Arsen Aleksanyen provided great guidance to Morgan from the day he arrived at Chapel Calvary. Assistant Coaches Josh Holladay and Jake Harmon, are also Youth Pastors, leading the Youth Group, and providing strong inspiration to Morgan. Recently the group has been working on developing new fish farming techniques, employing hydroponics, to provide alternate food sources for missions in Mexico. Morgan completely enjoys learning ways he can help people that are less fortunate than him.

He is already focused on college, knowing he will apply his great wrestling experience and talent during his higher education. He also owns a keen interest in the military, and may pursue a career there. He certainly shows the attributes that are necessary to become a leader in one of our nations greatest, and most important resources.

TakeDown Radio, and all of the award sponsors, are very proud to select Morgan as the June recipient. He becomes the tenth remarkable young person to earn the prestigious award.

TakeDown Radio would like to thank the sponsors of the High School Wrestler of the Month Award. Without Resilite, W.I.N. Magazine, Brute adidas, Intermat, and Sunflower Wrestling Supply, the award would not be possible. We are all very pleased to place our support in some of the nation's most promising youth.

Back this week to the Brute Adidas studios of Takedown Wrestling Radio. Some say that the summer is the "off time" for wrestling. It isn't so.

Congratulations to Michael Johnson Jr. who competed in Utah over the last few days and was able to hobble on to the mat with a previously injured ankle and win the Triple Crown in his age group at 220 pounds. This big kid is 6 ft 2 and has no desire to play football. I can only hope for Olympic Gold for this straight A student from Downers Grove Illinois. Michael Johnson, Jr. (Schoolboy/girl 210 pounds). This is familiar territory for Johnson, who was a Kids Triple Crown winner as a Novice wrestler in 2007. It caps a very strong season for him. Johnson was the Ultimate Dominator in 2008-09, scoring the most points in USA Wrestling’s Ultimate Challenge Series of Folkstyle Wrestling.
Joining us this week:

Chris Ayres- Head Coach of Princeton joins us to discuss his team, his recruits, the Ivy and summer training and camps.

Ray Brinzer- The head man at Angry Fish and one of my all time favorite wrestlers joins us to discuss his mutual effort behind developing "The Open Mat.com". Aside from being informative and a walk down memory lane it should be very fun as well catching up with "Ray man".

Eric Betterman- Co-founder of TheOpenMat.com. He'll share with us his goals for his site, his views and why he has developed this site with Ray Brinzer.

Brian Antonelli- Asst Head Coach of the US Naval Academy Wrestling team. What's it like to work with Head Coach Bruce Burnett. Navy has a stellar recruiting class ranked in the 25 in the country. When you think about of tuff is is to get into the Academy that's quite a feat!

Jimmy May- Baker University in Baldwin City Kansas. Recently inducted in to the Nevada Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame Jimmy will tell us of the recruits signed and why smaller colleges, both public and private are adding wrestling at a steady pace. The team is set to start competition fall of 2009. I'm excited!

Harley Race- WLW Wrestling Boss Man, Former many x Pro Wrestling World Champion will host a pro wrestling event in Waterloo, Iowa Friday July 10th to benefit to Dan Gable International Wrestling Institute and Museum. Many of the Legends of Pro Wrestling will be on hand. Many Thanks to Harley, his wife and partner BJ for their unflagging support of the DGIWIM. More information on this event can be had at: http://www.wrestlingmuseum.org

Join us for America's Wrestling Radio Talk Show on a radio station near you or on line at many of our broadcast partners including Takedownradio.com. We air 9 AM to 11 AM every Saturday morning and look forward to having you listen in.

Baltic Boxing Union title fights

BBU Welterweight title: On the 30th April, one of the finest Russian welterweights around Roman Seliverstov (9-8, 2 KOs) proved once again that his less-than-stellar record says nothing at all about his real abilities. Seliverstov, 32, who easily dominated former world title challenger and former European title holder Michel Trabant (then 43-3-1) in his penultimate fight last July, was too much for Russian-based Andrey “Bazooka” Yeskin (17-6, 12 KOs), 33, stopping him in six bloody rounds. With this victory Seliverstov captured the vacant Baltic Boxing Union welterweight title to see his hand raised in the air by Mr. Alexey Sukachev, who worked as the BBU supervisor of the main event. Seliverstov-Yeskin championship collision headlined a nice-packed little show, promoted by the former welterweight contender-turned-promoter Sergey Stepkin and by the Union Boxing Management.
The boxing card contained in total seven professional boxing fights. Lots of renowned persons in Russian boxing community have visited this event and it has also been highlighted with political beau monde of the capital.

BBU International Light Heavyweight title: Late on the 31st May evening there was a fight for vacant BBU International title fight at Light Heavyweight division at Warka, Poland. Local hero Pawel Glazewski (POL) was facing experienced late-sub Martins Kukuls (LAT) at fight which was scheduled for 6 rounds. After quite close early rounds Glazewski started to press more his foe and during the end of fourth round and fifth round brave Latvian boxer was badly punished before the referee stopped the contest. With victory Glazewski improved to 5-0 with 3 KOs. The show was promoted by Tomasz Babilonski and his Babilon Promotions. After this title fight Glazewski has won also one non-title bout and is now 6-0 (3 KO).

Upcoming Baltic Boxing Union title fight

BBU Light Heavyweight title: There will be a big pro boxing show at Moscow Russia on the 2nd July. The card will be promoted be internationally well-known Russian TOP promoter German Titov. One of four title bouts on the card is the fight for BBU Light Heavyweight title.

The BBU 175lb belt is up for grabs by either current Russian light heavyweight titleholder, 24 years old, Vasily Lepikhin (6-0, 4 KOs) or 25 years old undefeated Samara-based Russian Roman Simakov (6-0-1, 4 KOs). Lepikhin is ranked currently as the #6 and Simakov as the #17 place at BBU Baltic Rankings. Both fighters are the members of the stable led by German Titov.

In the main event of the show there will be a clash between Grigory Drozd and Darnell Wilson for three different Cruiserweight titles. Also a German Titov´s stable newcomer Beijing Olympic Super Heavyweight Bronze medallist Vyacheslav Glazkov will make his pro debut at this special show.

Other BBU news:
* The updated BBU Baltic Rankings will be published on Saturday 4th July. To check out the Ranking situation on April, please visit at down of page http://balticboxingunion.com/champions.php .
* One change for rules concerning BBU International title fights since 1.7.2009: The defense period for BBU International Championship is 6 (six) months. This new rule will run for the new champions, not for already reigning BBU International Champs.

How to contact BBU:
Please remember that Baltic Boxing Union is always looking for new co-operation partners from our working area at Norway, Sweden, Finland, Germany, Poland, Denmark, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Russia. As known our title fights are cheap, reliable and easy to arrange and they will always give significant experience for boxers and also a new boost for champion´s career.
If you are interested to get either BBU Championship title fight (8 or 10 rounds) or BBU International Championship fight (6 or 8 rounds) to give more meaning for your show or if you are interested to know how your boxer can challenge the reigning BBU champion please visit our web pages at (www.balticboxingunion.com) for more information and contact BBU Board (bbu@balticboxingunion.com).

RAGE TV this Thursday on Cox Channel 7 at 11pm

I Fights Presents
RAGE IN THE CAGE # 130
Gila River Casino (Wild Horse Pass)
Saturday July 18, 2009
Doors Open: 5:00 PM, Fighter Introductions: 6:30PM, Fight Time: 7:00 PM

Tickets on sale at these locations:
Wild Horse Pass Gift Shop (800WinGila, 800-946-4452)
www.protixonline.com or 866-977-6849
Tickets starting at $35.00 and up with free parking and no
service charge. Tickets $5 higher if purchased on fight day.

Gila River Casino has requested that fans must be 21 or older to attend
this event.

Fight Card:

Robert Beraun ( 240 ) vs Richard Hale ( 220 ) RITC HW Title
Jesse Barrett ( 195 ) vs Bryan Pardoe ( 205 )
Eric Regan ( 170 ) vs Joe Cronin ( 170 ) RITC WW Title
Jade Porter ( 155 ) vs Chris Leyva ( 155 )
Mike Ashford ( 195 ) vs Rich Moss ( 195 )
Zack Surdyka ( 160 ) vs Alex Garcia ( 160 )
Tyler Bialecki ( 135 ) vs Derithe Harper ( 135 )
Chasman Shaw ( 280 ) vs Travis Scott ( 270 )

Vin Vallejo ( 205 ) vs Dave Connant ( 200 )
Roman Baca ( 160 ) vs Benny Madrid ( 160 )
Ray Romano ( 165 ) vs Brandon Spencer ( 165 )
Ben Monarrez ( 185 ) vs Michael Bailey ( 175 )
Jason Richey ( 185 ) vs Jake Ramsey ( 190 )
Justin Purcell ( 180 ) vs Kelvin Gastelum ( 170 )
Michael Parker ( 155 ) vs TBA
Gabe Rosa ( 165 ) vs Job Mills ( 165 )
John Moraga ( 135 ) vs Joey Lugo ( 145 )

Matt Mamolin ( 145 ) vs Bobby Thak ( 150 )
Bash Saber ( 160 ) vs Tim Gidley ( 155 )
Elijah Muhammad ( 145 ) vs Nadeem Al-Hasan ( 155 )
Sam Yank ( 140 ) vs Jason Jones ( 145 )
Raymond Rita ( 155 ) vs Robert Gainey ( 155 )
Nick Rhoads ( 170 ) vs David Solorio ( 170 )
John King ( 150 ) vs James Fabbri ( 155 )
Rudy Rameriz ( 155 ) vs Graham Hookano ( 155 )
George Polynin ( 155 ) vs Orion Cowell ( 155 )

Fight Card subject to change

Gila River Casino
5550 W Wild Horse Pass Road
Chandler, AZ 85246

Upcoming Event:

RITC 131
Friday July 24, 2009
Thunder Raceway
Show Low, AZ

Visit Rage in the Cage on the web ! www.rageinthecage.com for Fight Card information, Venue Directions, FREE Tickets and to view RAGE IN THE CAGE fights for FREE!

If interested in competing in RAGE IN THE CAGE, please contact John Petrilli at john@rageinthecage.com.

Note: You are receiving this information because you have been identified as either a member of the RITC events. If you no longer wish to receive this info, simply respond to ritc@rageinthecage.com with word “REMOVE” in the subject line and you will be deleted instantly.

GRUDGE Fight wear presents
DESERT QUEST CHAMPIONSHIP
July 11th 2009
Grappling Championship

Weight-Ins start at 9:00am / Tournament starts 12:00pm (Same day weight Ins)

Event Directions to the tournament: From I-10 (North or South) -Take US 60 East - Take Ramp toward S. Country Club Dr. (AZ-87) - Go 0.3 mi - Turn left on S. Country Club Dr. - Go 1.4 mi - Turn Right on Broadway Rd. - Go 0.1 mi - Turn Right on Broadway Rd. - Go 0.6 mi - Arrive at 59 E. Broadway Rd. Mesa, on the right. From loop 101 (North or South) - Take ramp onto US-60 East - go 2.9 mi - Take Ramp toward S. Country Club Dr. (AZ-87) - Go 0.3 mi - Turn left on S. Country Club Dr. - Go 1.4 mi - Turn Right on Broadway Rd. - Go 0.1 mi - Turn Right on Broadway Rd. - Go 0.6 mi - Arrive at 59 E. Broadway Rd. Mesa, on the right..

For tournament information: Please contact (602) 819-1216 or E-mail: ritc@rageinthecage.com www.desertquestchampionship.com / www.rageinthecage.com

RITC Training Centers
Call now!!! And receive a free week of training either the Tempe or Chandler locations. (480) 782-6800 or ritc@rageinthecage.com
Join now for only $500.00 for one year of unlimited training!

LAS VEGAS (July 1, 2009) – It didn’t take two-time WBA heavyweight champion John “The Quietman” Ruiz (43-8-1, 29 KOs) very long to respond to comments made by unbeaten heavyweight contender Chris Arreola and his promoter, Dan Goossen, at a press conference Tuesday in Los Angeles.

Arreola was quoted as saying, “There are a lot of old guys and former champs sitting around there that we need to take care of. Their time is up. They need to go.”

“This September,” Goossen added, “you’re going to see Chistobal fighting in California and you’re going to see him fighting a former world champion.”

If the WBA doesn’t rule that its heavyweight title-holder, Nicolai Valuev, immediately defend his title against the WBA’s mandatory challenger, Ruiz, “The Quietman” is ready to be the old guy, former world champion fighting Arreola in September.

“I’m willing to risk my WBA mandatory shot against Arreola, if he puts up his WBC mandatory,” Ruiz said from a Las Vegas gym where he’s been training. “What’s been taking him so long? I called him out in early May but he never said a word and his people never contacted mine. I don’t get it. He keeps complaining about not getting a title shot that he’s done nothing to deserve. Maybe he needs to push himself away from the dinner table and take a risk. I’m over-the-hill, huh? Well, I guess everybody thinks it should be a cake walk for him, but I’m not like his last opponent, who came out of retirement to fight him for the money.

“He wants to be the first Mexican to win the world heavyweight championship. Be a macho Mexican, Arreola. Walk the walk and fight the first and only Latino world heavyweight champ to really prove yourself. If it makes you feel better, I’ll retire for a few days, and wait for your call. Stop disrespecting me and talking trash unless you have the rocks to fight a real champion.”
Go on line to www.johnthequietmanruiz.com for more information about Ruiz.

-JR-

ASC debut show July 31 at Icenter in Salem, New Hampshire

SALEM, New Hampshire (July 1, 2009) – UFC pioneer Patrick Smith was there at the beginning and 16 years later the ageless wonder is still going strong as he prepares to fight another UFC veteran, super heavyweight Kevin “The Shamnan” Jordan (11-8-0), in the Super Fight on American Steel Cagefighting’s (ASC) first professional mixed martial arts show, July 31 at the Icenter in Salem, New Hampshire.

Smith (16-13-0), now fighting out of Milburn, Oklahoma, was a UFC pioneer, losing a tough fight to Ken Shamrock in UFC1. He came back strong in UFC 2, winning three fights in a row, before eventually losing in the championship match to legendary Royce Gracie. Patrick’s most notable wins have been against Rudyard Moncayo in UFC6 and last year versus Eric “Butterbean” Esch.

Reflecting on his MMA career that Smith believes has taken off again, Patrick clearly is proud of where he’s been, as well as confident about where he’s headed. “I look at it and say, ‘Wow,’ because this sport is now the fastest growing in the country,” Patrick said. “I’m still here and doing very well. I’m more of an all-around fighter now, not just a good Muay Thai fighter and kick boxer. My body’s still good. (UFC president) Dana (White) keeps telling me to beat somebody more accomplished. I just beat Brad Imes in 28 seconds (TKO, March 13). I busted him up and did a lot of things to him in 28 seconds. I don’t know what more I can do. I’m outweighed by a lot every time I fight, but I’m still willing and able to fight anybody. Tim Sylvia, Chuck Lidell, Anderson Silva……they’re terrible strikers. They can’t hit me.”

Smith has fought all over the world – Russia, Japan, Brazil and Canada – and across the United States, but never before in New England. “I’m looking forward to coming up there,” Smith added. “I don’t talk trash because anything can happen in the heavyweight division. I’ll be in good shape and will bring my best.”

IFL veteran Nate “The Future” Lamotte (10-4-0), of Manchester (NH), battles dangerous Doug “Flash” Gordon (9-7-0). Also scheduled to clash on the explosive 10-fight ASC card is undefeated New York lightweight Pat Audinwood (7-0-0) vs. “Mr. Big” Al Buck (6-7-0), former Cage Fury Fighting champion; lightweight Damien “The Omen” Trites (2-3-0) vs. Joe Dechaves (3-1-0); pro debuting featherweights Al Germain Sterling vs. Albert Reccio; welterweight Carlos Nieves (3-6-0) vs. Ryan Schieding (3-1-0); Worcester featherweight Evan Parker (1-0-0), Boston welterweight Aaron McKenna in his pro debut, and Boston middleweight John Clark (7-2-0) against opponents to be determined.

All fights are scheduled for three, three-minute rounds; fighters and fights are subject to change. Tickets, priced at $50.00, $75.00, and $100.00, are available to purchase at Stateline Ticket Agency in Salem (NH) and all Two Guys Smoke Shop stores in Salem, Nashua and Seabrook (NH), as well as by calling toll free 888.224.4272 or going on line to www.AmericanSteelCagefighting.com.

Doors open at 6 PM, first fight at 8 PM. Go to www.AmericanSteelCagefighting.com for additional information.

American Steel Cage Fighting

ASC is co-owned by David Garofalo and Sal LoNano. Garofalo is the proprietor of Two Guys Smoke Shop, in Salem (NH), one of the world’s highest volume independently owned cigar retailer. LoNano, who managed professional boxers “Irish” Micky Ward and former world light welterweight champion Paulie “Magic Man” Malignaggi, owns S & L Boxing, which has promoted numerous nationally televised pro boxing shows. Gary Marino is the ASC matchmaker.

BROOKLYN - The initial installment of Shaun George's Video Diary is now available on Youtube (see below). Shaun George will face Chris Henry on July 10 at The Arena in Philadelphia, PA in a ten round light-heavyweight bout that will be aired on ESPN2's Friday Night Fights.

Brooklyn's George, 18-2-2 (9 KO), opened eyes with a punishing ninth round TKO of former heavyweight champion Chris Byrd last May. As an amateur George had a record of 51-7, which was highlighted by two New York Golden Gloves titles and on National Golden Gloves championship.

Henry of Houston, TX is 23-2 (18 KO) and has held the NABF and NABA light-heavyweight titles. His only two losses have come in highly-competitive bouts with Yusaf Mack and Adrian Diaconu by decision. Henry has never been knocked down as a professional.

The fight will be the co-featured bout alongside Matt Godfrey vs. Shawn Hawk. The show will be promoted by Blaine Garner's Shalyte Entertainment in association with Dibella Entertainment and CES Boxing.

The Arena is located on the corner of Swanson and Ritner Streets in South Philadelphia. Tickets, priced at $45 for advanced; $60 for Ringside; $65 for VIP can be purchased through The Arena at 267-687-7560, Shalyte Promotions at 215-287-7949 or Le Crown Barbershop at 215-927-5027.