HD-NET INSIDE MMA FEATURING TAKEDOWN RADIO’S SCOTT CASBER
Posted on | March 19, 2008 | No Comments
Full Episode of HD-Net Inside MMA Program Featuring TakeDown Radio Host Scott Casber Now Available On-line
Des Moines, IA- March 19, 2008- The latest episode of HD-Nets Inside MMA television program can be viewed on-line at http://hd.net/imma211.html. The program originally aired on March 14 and features TakeDown Radio founder and host Scott Casber as a guest panelist. Scott joins regular hosts Kenny Rice and Bas Rutten, as well as other guest panelists Quinton “Rampage Jackson” and Cung Lee.
HD-Net is available by satellite and on many cable systems. Repeat broadcasts are scheduled on those systems.
Thursday, March 20 7PM EST
Friday, March 21 3AM EST
Friday, March 21 9:30 PM EST
The program provides unique insight regarding Casber’s hands-on experience and extensive knowledge of mixed martial arts (MMA) in addition to wrestling. The program provides reporting on all levels of the sport, including regional events. Additional to his role with TakeDown Radio, Casber is a partner in Midwest Sports Entertainment Group, parent company of Midwest Cage Championship and Title Fight Championship MMA promotion companies. Highlights from a recent Midwest Cage Championship event is featured on the program.
If you do not receive HD-Net now, please contact your satellite or cable provider to request the service.
HOPKINS GETTING READY TO “EXECUTE” AGAIN
Posted on | March 19, 2008 | No Comments
HOPKINS TRAINS WITH HIS “EXECUTION SQUAD” FOR
HIGHLY ANTICIPATED BOUT WITH CALZAGHE
Light Heavyweight fight to take place in the PH Ring on April 19
LOS ANGELES. March 19, 2008 . . . With his entire team assembled at his training camp in Los Angeles, CA, light heavyweight champion Bernard Hopkins is settling into his intensive routine for what will be the most highly anticipated contest in boxing so far this year.
Supported by trainers Freddie Roach, coming off his Saturday night triumph with his other star pugilist Manny Pacquiao; Nazim Richardson, who is the longest reigning member of Hopkins team; and southpaw specialist John David Jackson, who also saw victory this month with Nate Campbell’s win over Juan Diaz, Hopkins is leaving nothing to chance.
“This guy Calzaghe is a tough customer and his record shows that,” said Hopkins. “But I don’t think he and his father can actually “out corner” my corner when it comes to expertise and preparation. I consider my crew the “execution squad”, boxing’s elite and a vital part to my success, which will be the case on April 19. Not only am I going to beat Joe Calzaghe, I’m going to punish him and Enzo Calzaghe will be forced to stop being the trainer and start being the father and save his son for another day, the same way Don Felix Trinidad saved Tito from me.”
Also joining the training trio is conditioning expert Mackie Shilstone, who sports a perfect 5-0 record when it comes to victories for the fighters— the likes of which include Michael Spinks, Riddick Bowe, Roy Jones and Hopkins—he has worked with over the course of his boxing career.
“Bernard might be older but his body responds like a young champion,” said Shilstone. “We work out together and I watch the opponents’ tapes with him too. Trust me, we will be ready.”
Hopkins vs. Calzaghe “Battle of the Planet”, is presented by Golden Boy Promotions, Frank Warren’s Sports Network and the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. The match-up will air live from the Planet Hollywood Ring on HBO’s World Championship Boxing beginning at 9:45 p.m. ET/6:45 p.m. PT.
Tickets, priced at $1500, $1200, $750, $450, $350 and $250, are now on sale and may be purchased by calling 866-USFIGHT or online at planethollywood.com.
One of the greatest middleweights of all-time, Bernard “The Executioner” Hopkins (48-4-1, 32 KOs) owned the middleweight title for over ten years before moving up to the light heavyweight division in 2006, and immediately won The Ring Magazine World Championship with a dominating 12 round decision win over Antonio Tarver. In his last fight, on July 21, 2007, Hopkins continued his amazing run at the age of 42, outpointing Winky Wright. Now it’s on to Calzaghe.
Unquestionably one of the greatest super middleweights in boxing history and currently The Ring Magazine Super Middleweight World Champion, Newbridge, Wales’ Joe Calzaghe (44-0, 32 KOs) has never tasted defeat in his pro career and has held the world super middleweight title since he defeated Chris Eubank in 1997 for the World Boxing Organization Championship. Twenty-one consecutive title defenses followed that victory — fourth-best on boxing’s all-time list — and after big wins over undefeated champions Jeff Lacy in 2006 and Mikkel Kessler in 2007 in which he added the International Boxing Federation (IBF), World Boxing Association (WBA) and World Boxing Council (WBC) championship belts to his collection, he now seek a bigger challenge at 175 pounds where Hopkins awaits.
Gleason’s Gym Newsletter
Posted on | March 19, 2008 | No Comments
Last of the Golden Gloves Semi-Finals
Aviator Sports
Hanger 5
Floyd Bennet Field
Brooklyn
Friday, March 28, 2008
201+ open, 112; 141 novice and 114; 125 women
First bout 7:30PM
Tickets available at Gleason’s Gym
One price General Admission $25
Professional Boxing Yuri Foreman vs. Saul Roman
Aviator Sports
Hanger 5
Floyd Bennet Field
Brooklyn
Thursday, April 3, 2008
First bout 7:30PM
Tickets available at Gleason’s Gym
General Admission $40
Ringside $100
First three rows $150
Johnny Rodz Professional Wrestling
Gleason’s Gym
77 Front St.
Brooklyn
Saturday, April 5, 2008
First Bout 8:00PM
General Admission $10
81st Annual Daily News Golden Gloves Finals
Held at The Theater at Madison Square Garden on Thursday, April 17th and Friday, April 18th.
The Best Possible Seats will be sold through Gleason’s Gym as soon as they become available.
Reserve your orders today!
Golden Gloves Finals
The Theatre at Madison Square Garden
Thursday, April 17, 2008 and Friday April 18, 2008
First bout 7:00PM
Tickets available at Gleason’s Gym
$25
$35
$45
The Battle of Brooklyn VIII
Gleason’s Gym
77 Front St
Brooklyn
Saturday, April 26, 2008
First bout 8:00PM
General admission $35
Ringside $55
V.I.P. tickets $75
A night of kick-boxing, Muay Thai, San Da, No Gi Submission Grappling, and much, much more.
Gleason’s Monthly Club Show
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Gleason’s Gym will resume the monthly boxing shows now that the Golden Gloves are over. All bouts are pre-matched by New York’s finest matchmaker, Angela Querol. If you wish to participate call Angela at (718) 797-2872.
The weigh-in starts at 5:00PM and the first bout will be at 7:00PM.
Tickets are $20 general admission and $10 for gym members and amateur fighters with passbooks in hand.
IBF CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPION, STEVE “USS” CUNNINGHAM FEATURED IN RING MAGAZINE
Posted on | March 19, 2008 | No Comments
Steve “USS” Cunningham featured in a six-page spread in “The Bible of Boxing”
Philadelphia (March 18, 2008)—IBF Cruiserweight champion, Steve “USS” Cunningham is featured in the currant edition of Ring Magazine.
Cunningham (21-1, 11 KO’s) chronicles his title defense of Marco Huck in Bielefeld, Germany that took place on December 29, 2007.
“Diary of a Road Warrior; an Exclusive First Person Report by Steve Cunningham takes the reader inside the mind and thought process of a world champion boxer as he prepares to defend his title 4,000 miles from home over the Christmas holiday.
Cunningham discusses in his own words about traveling to Europe for a third consecutive fight to display his talents and his mindset about his surroundings while his two children are back home in Philadelphia.
It’s a unique yet intense look into what a world champion is thinking and what he faces when preparing for a fight that would be seen by over 5 million people in Europe & read how the German boxing fans treat Cunningham before and after knocking out their hometown hero.
The stories do not end there as Cunningham was featured in the Philadelphia Daily News by Boxing Writers Association of America president Bernard Fernandez. The article, which was in Tuesday’s paper, gets Cunningham’s thoughts of the recent David Haye-Enzo Maccarinelli bout from two weeks ago.
To read that article click: http://www.philly.com/philly/hp/sports/16774916.html
Tuesday’s ELITEXC/STRIKEFORCE Conference Call Quotes: Shamrock, Le, Shields, Fickett, Shaw
Posted on | March 19, 2008 | No Comments
CONFERENCE CALL QUOTES
FRANK SHAMROCK & CUNG LE
JAKE SHIELDS & DREW FICKETT
PROMOTER GARY SHAW
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Legendary Frank Shamrock will defend his Strikeforce middleweight title against unbeaten Cung Le in the main event of a stellar, eagerly anticipated EliteXC-Strikeforce co-promoted mixed martial arts extravaganza Saturday, March 29, at the HP Pavilion in San Jose, Calif., on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast).
Tickets for “Shamrock vs. Cung Le,” priced from $30, are on sale at the HP Pavilion box office (408-287-7070) as well as at all Ticketmaster locations (408-998-TIXS), Ticketmaster online (www.ticketmaster.com), EliteXC’s official website (www.ProElite.com) and Strikeforce’s official website (www.Strikeforceusa.net).
In the co-feature, top welterweight contenders Jake Shields and Drew Fickett will clash for the vacant EliteXC crown.
QUESTION: What are your thoughts on fighting Cung Le, fighting on SHOWTIME at home and defending your title?
SHAMROCK: First of all, welcome everybody, and thanks for your support. Fighting Cung Le in San Jose is an absolute dream, not only for myself, but for the city. It’s really brought our martial arts community together for one common cause. The whole town’s talking about it. It’s probably the biggest thing that’s happened here in a really long time. So I’m really happy to be a part of it.
Cung has been a friend of mine and adversary of mine for a long time. For us to finally get in and mix it up, it’s a beautiful thing.
I also want to thank all the media who supported our charity event March 22 in San Jose for breast cancer. You guys have been absolutely wonderful about it. If you haven’t received information on it, or you want to add more support, please email me at Frank@FrankShamrock.com. Cung Le, you better keep your hands up.
LE: I will.
QUESTION: Cung, what are your thoughts on the fight?
LE: I’d like to thank Strikeforce, Scott Coker, EliteXC and Gary Shaw for putting this fight together. Thank you to Frank for accepting me to challenge you for your title.
I’m just very excited to be part of this event, especially with everyone matched up on this card. I think this is probably the best match?up of the year and probably going to be the best fight card of the year. I’m looking forward to fighting my heart out, and putting on a show.
QUESTION: Jake, what are your thoughts on the fight?
SHIELDS: First off, I want to thank Gary Shaw for giving me the chance to fight for the title. I’m really excited for the fight. It’s right near my hometown. I’m fighting Drew Fickett, who I think is a great opponent. I’ve got a lot of respect for him. I think me and him should match up well. It should be a great fight.
QUESTION: Drew, what are your thoughts on the fight?
FICKETT: I want to thank Jake for taking this fight. He’s never really ducked anyone. He fights everybody. I think he’s a very underrated fighter. I think stylistically we match up pretty well. I hope we bring the best out of each other. I hope we can push each other, and hopefully I can make it five rounds and do really well.
SHAW: Obviously, I want to thank all the reporters for getting on this call. On March 29 in San Jose, we have a terrific card. Obviously, I don’t have to speak for Frank or Cung or absolutely any of the fighters. They all can speak very well. I believe we have one of the best cards we’ve ever put on.
I’m proud to say I think we’re going to do over a million dollar gate. I believe that we’ll do somewhere around 15,000-17,000 people. That just shows how big this fight is. I mean, we have a great card with Joey Villasenor against Evangelista “Cyborg” Santos, Nick Diaz against Jae Suk Lim, Gilbert Melendez against Gabe Lemley, Jake and Drew and Frank and Cung.
You know, there is a lot at stake here, but especially for Frank Shamrock and Cung Le. I mean, this is truly for the king of the Bay Area and the king of San Jose. One of them is going to walk with his head high that night and through town the next week or two, and the other won’t feel quite as good.
It’s the young against the old. It’s a stylistic fight. Obviously, the most important thing is the health, safety and welfare of every fighter. The most important thing is that everybody walks out of the cage healthy.
This will be a great night for the fans, and a great, great night for all of these fighters, and the best night for MMA. So I thank you all very much.
QUESTION: For both fighters, how long has this fight been in the works? It seems you guys have been talking about fighting each other for a long time. What was your reaction when the fight was finally signed?
LE: I think it’s been about six years. Now, it’s finally happening. I think it’s a good thing for this fight card and this town. I can’t wait to step into the cage against Frank.
SHAMROCK: From my end, Cung Le exaggerates a little bit because we’ve never actually sparred in MMA. We’ve only sparred in his sport of San Sho because, like most people, he’s afraid to go to the ground with me.
But it has been in the works for five or six years. Cung’s a wonderful athlete. And I’ve always viewed him as someone, who, if he learned the art, would make for a good fight.
QUESTION: Jake, you’ve waited a long time for this opportunity. How are you looking at this fight, and the fact that you’re finally getting a shot at the world title?
SHIELDS: First of all, I’m excited I’m finally getting to fight for that title. I’ve been in the sport for a long time. I’ve had some titles in Japan and stuff. But this is one of the most legitimate titles in the world. So I’m excited.
Like I said earlier, Drew’s a really tough opponent, good ground, good stand?up, so I’m prepared for the war.
SHAW: Drew, to his credit, earned the shot at Jake by beating Mark Weir in Cage Rage. And, obviously, everybody knows Jake’s record, and how long it is since he’s tasted defeat.
QUESTION: Drew, do you think that you have more experience than Jake?
FICKETT: Probably not. He’s probably been fighting as long as me, but he’s fought in Japan and Shooto. I remember when I was beating Sakurai, I was working with my favorite fighters and I was kind of upset with that. I was like oh, Sakurai, I’m so excited. He’s been fighting in bigger shows than I have. So I have to say Jake has more experience.
SHIELDS: Drew has fought a few more shows. We’ve fought about the same amount of time. Experience?wise, it was pretty good to me.
FICKETT: Were you pretty freaked out when you were watching Sakurai?
SHIELDS: I was so excited. I couldn’t believe I had that opportunity. And to go beat him was really cool.
FICKETT: I just saw that fight the other day. That was a scramble, man.
SHIELDS: Yeah, it was quite an opportunity for me.
QUESTION: Gary, you’ve been making huge strides in mixed martial arts over the past years, signing big fighters, securing network television deals, co? promoting with the likes of Strikeforce, putting together this fantastic card with Cung and Fickett and Shields. Is there any reason why you aren’t making a play for a Couture?Fedor match up, seeing how they’re fair game at this point?
SHAW: That’s a very good question: Until Randy Couture is absolutely out of his contract with UFC, everybody knows me and my reputation. I do not torturously interfere with anybody’s contract or any fighter. I respect the fighter, I respect the contract and, believe it or not, I respect the UFC.
I’ve talked with Fedor. I don’t deny that, but I have not approached Randy Couture and I can’t approach Randy until I know that he’s out of everything with the UFC. But I’d be thrilled to put it on.
QUESTION: When that comes, would you be interested in signing that deal?
SHAW: I would sign it in less than a heartbeat.
COMMENT: Fantastic. Thank you very much, Gary, and good luck with this upcoming fight.
SHAW: Thank you very much. I’m proud to be a part of this with Scott Coker. I think it’s a great, great event. And I’m very, very proud to represent Frank Shamrock.
QUESTION: Frank, not to look past Le by any chance, what do you think about a rematch with Ortiz?
SHAMROCK: Obviously, our main focus is this Cung Le fight. But, yeah, I think it’s a great idea. I think there are a lot of strengths and brand value in some of these old timers like myself and guys like Ken.
Yeah, I’ve been talking to Tito about it and we’re trying to work it out. Hopefully, it will come to fruition. About 10 years after I last whipped him, I plan on whipping him again.
QUESTION: Frank, how do you feel you match up with him now that he’s had all the back problems and such?
SHAMROCK: Well, he’s always been kind of a big bully guy who wrestles well. So I beat him last time on striking when my striking was really terrible. You know, I beat him on striking and conditioning. Now my striking is 10 years more advanced and my conditioning is even better, so I just think I would destroy him. But it would still be a great money fight, and I think it would be a great story and promotional event.
QUESTION: Do you ever feel like you should match?up with other champions of other organizations that EliteXC has acquired or been in with?
SHAMROCK: Yeah, I’ve got so many belts I don’t have a place to put them. I just stack them up in my gym. So I realized a long time ago that belts don’t mean anything. It’s easier to become a champion than to stay the champion. For me, it’s just a way of life. If they give me a belt, that’s great. If they don’t, I could really care less.
SHAW: Let me just interrupt, because Frank’s on a good point. There comes a time in fighter’s careers that it’s all about the fights. It’s no longer about belts or trinkets.
But at Frank’s stage of his career right now the most important fight he’s got as he said is the one in front of him. And that is Cung Le. After that, there are a lot of big fights out there for Frank.
Obviously, Tito Ortiz would be a big fight and I’m a big fan of Tito’s and hope Tito and I are going to do business together. There is Ken Shamrock out there and brother against brother and bad blood. So there are a lot of fights out there for Frank.
But on behalf of Frank, I want everybody to know that for Frank it’s only about big fights. The biggest belt is the one that I wear around my fat waist. But on a serious note, for Frank, it’s strictly about the big fights at this stage of his career.
SHAMROCK: What Gary said is true. To me it’s about how big we can make a promotion, and how much attention we can draw to it and how well it’s received with the fans. So I’d rather fight a guy like Phil Baroni who can sell a match like nobody else in the world and then take a beating like nobody else in the world, than a champion who can’t put two sentences together and who doesn’t draw a big crowd.
QUESTION: Drew, what kind of fight do you expect?
FICKETT: A pretty exciting fight with a lot of scrambling, lot of striking, lot of ground. I think Jack and I are going to push each other like we haven’t been pushed before, which is going to be good for both of us. I think this is the first time I’ve really been motivated for a fight in last few years.
QUESTION: Jake, do you feel like this is going to be your toughest opponent?
SHIELDS: Definitely up there, one of them. As far as tough opponents it’s definitely one of the toughest. I’ve fought guys like Masaki and I definitely put Drew up there at that level. I’m taking him really seriously. I’m ready for war. Like he said, he’s motivated. When Drew comes in shape looking good, he’s definitely tough.
QUESTION: Cung, what does this fight mean to you and the whole San Jose area?
LE: This is the biggest fight of my career. I think this is one of the biggest fights in San Jose to date. I’m just looking forward to it. I’ve been training so hard for this fight, and I’m looking forward to stepping in the cage against Frank.
Frank’s been around a long time. He’s got a lot of wins against big names like Tito. And I’m looking to match?up. Frank says he’s going to knock me out in the second round. If Frank chooses to stand, I think we’re going to have a great fight. They’ll put us in that cage and just Rock ‘n’ Roll.
QUESTION: What made such an accomplished kick boxer like you want to try this sport?
LE: Actually it was Frank’s old trainer, and now my trainer, Javier Mendez. He talked me into doing MMA. Back in 2006 he said ‘the time is now, MMA’s about to explode.’ I said, OK, I’ll give it a shot.
Frank and I were on the same card in March two years ago and it was a sellout. I guess there were over 18,000 that showed up. We’re expecting another big show.
Two years later, I’m just fortunate to have the chance to compete for a title and fight someone like Frank. It’s only been two years for me in the MMA game, and I just feel like I came in at the right time. I was at the right place at the right time and have been blessed. Frank gave me the shot, and I’m grateful. I’m going to do everything I can to take that belt away from Frank.
QUESTION: Frank, what did you think about Ken Shamrock’s fight recently at Cage Rage? Can you give your thoughts on that fight?
SHAMROCK: Sure. I was pretty disappointed in his performance. You know, I don’t know if he’s still got the heart of a lion in him. Granted the guy was a little bigger and had some better reach on him.
I know Ken’s skill level and I just think he’s having trouble connecting his desire with his mind and his body and then putting all of that together to be an exciting fighter. I hope he’s still got plenty left in him because I plan on taking a little out of his (butt) as well.
SHAW: He told me he’s got enough to take you, Frank.
SHAMROCK: I sure hope so.
SHAW: On a serious note, he was sick that night. He got some type of stomach ailment, so he didn’t go into the cage 100 percent. But he absolutely told me he’s got enough to take your (butt).
SHAMROCK: (Laughing).
SHAW: All right, you’re laughing.
QUESTION: Jake, you were recently promoted to black belt. Was it mostly a symbolic thing for you, or would you consider it a milestone in your career?
SHIELDS: Mostly a symbolic thing. I’ve been competing in tournaments for years in high levels. I’ve been going to the Black Belt Division. I think I’ve competed at that level for a while, but it’s definitely nice to get the recognition and get the belt from Caesar (Gracie). Everyone knows Caesar doesn’t give out belts easily. Now it’s just me, Nick Diaz and David Charles. There are only three, so it’s quite an honor.
QUESTION: Frank, you said you want keep this fight standing and you want to go for the knockout. Could you tell us why, of all things, you would choose to strike with a striker?
SHAMROCK: Well, you know, I’ve been in this sport for as long as I have because I’ve got to have something to challenge me. I’m an older guy. My art has been tweaked many years ago to be a striking art. As far as the last decade, most of what I’ve studied has been striking. And I think it’s just time for me to try out my striking.
It might be a little dangerous, but it’s not like we’re not in a dangerous sport. So I have the utmost confidence in what I do. And I think that Cung Le is a great striker. But I don’t think he’s prepared for an MMA striking match. And that’s just my strategic analysis of the match. So I’m going for it.
QUESTION: Cung, the stand?up would seem to be your big strength in this fight, right?
LE: I think it’s a big smoke screen. Frank’s a very intelligent fighter. And of course, he’s going to put it out there that he’s going to strike with me. And really, I think, he’s going to test the waters a little bit and probably jump for half guard or look for the ankle locks and start hunting for my knees. That’s what I think.
I believe, of course, the battle starts early with Frank trying to get into my mind. Then trying to put out what he’s going to do out there, making me think that he’s going to strike. But, you know, I’m also a very intelligent fighter and I’m prepared for what Frank is going to come with. If he chooses to stand, (that’s) great. If he doesn’t, I’ll be on my bicycle, stepping out of the foot locks.
QUESTION: Cung, what’s your background? We know you’ve had some wrestling, but how is your ground game in wrestling and submissions?
LE: I was an All American in high school and I went to West Valley Junior College and I won the state there, too. I pretty much wrestled from the eighth grade to freestyle, to Greco Roman, to collegiate wrestling. I trained with Caesar and Hoff a bit when they were together. It was too much of a commute for me. I stopped going after three or four months.
And then I started doing strictly stand?up. Now I go over to A.K. where I have Paul Shriner and Garth Taylor. Then I go out there and train. Jake comes up to the A.K. We have all kinds of great sparring partners and guys that are really round up in the stand?up and the ground game. So I learn a lot.
I’m just excited to be part of this mega event. I’m going to focus and stay focused on Frank and not worry about who is next. I also know that things always happen in threes. So, watch out, Frank. It always happens in threes.
QUESTION: Frank, do you think this bout’s going to last very long?
SHAMROCK: Well, if Cung Le runs from me, I think that it might last a while. It will take me a little while to run him down. I think Cung Le has a good strategy. I know he’s going to punch, kick and then wrestle.
I don’t think it’s going to go very long. I don’t think it will go past two or three rounds. I’m going to push the pace really hard and try to finish it in two because my wife’s pregnant and I want to make sure I’m home with her just in case the baby pops out. Other than that, I don’t think it’s going to be a long fight.
QUESTION: Cung, your thoughts on the length?
LE: Frank can believe whatever he wants to believe. But we’ll see come March 29. If he believes he’s going to chase me down striking, great. I’ll feed him plenty of punches and kicks so he can run into all of them.
QUESTION: Frank, there are a lot of rumors that when you and Cung Le did spar, that he was a world class above you. How do you respond to those rumors?
SHAMROCK: Oh, well, they’re all true. Cung Le kicked my (butt). I was basically his sparring partner in his sport. We only did San Sho, and I sucked at San Sho. That was a great many years ago. And that was at the beginning of my understanding of striking. Now it’s just a different level, different story. But time will tell. You know, my actions in the ring will make everybody understand.
QUESTION: Frank, what is it like the three hours before a fight? What do you do? What do you think about?
SHAMROCK: I have a light meal about three hours before. Then I take a nap just after that. I drive to the arena about an hour and a half before the event. I check in. I read for about 30-40 minutes. I go out and say hi to my friends, family, sponsors and people that are there. And the last hour I warm?up, focus my mind and go out and do my job.
QUESTION: What do you read?
SHAMROCK: Right now I’m reading the “Fred Factor,” which is a book on how to focus your life and be a unique and interesting, exceptional person.
QUESTION: Frank, it’s interesting that you’re talking about striking or going after a guy in the stand?up who is really an accomplished stand?up fighter, even though he’s relatively new to MMA. Is this kind of like a personal thing because of all the quote, un-quote (butt) kickings you got in the past? Is that why you want to beat him at his own game?
SHAMROCK: No, for me, it’s just what fighting is about. I’m personally challenging myself. If I fight somebody in their game and they kick my (butt), that’s the way it is. If I fight a wrestler and they outwrestle me, that’s the way it is. Mixed martial arts is my game and kicking and punching are a huge part of it.
For me, I saw the sport changing in 1999. It really developed into a striking sport around that time. And I, in turn, adjusted my style and got my striking prepared for this modern day striking art. I’ll put it to you this way: Cung Le is the right guy at the right time for me.
I don’t know, it may be a bad call, but as I go through my record you’ll see that I’ve never been knocked out, tapped out, submitted or gave up in an MMA match. So it’s time for me to try something new and different. Everyone figured I’d take down Phil Baroni and work on the ground on him and he ended up taking me down. I just think that Cung Le will end up doing the same thing.
QUESTION: There’s a lot of talk about Anderson Silva, the middleweight, being the best pound?for?pound fighter on the planet. What are your thoughts about that claim?
SHAMROCK: Well, I think I’ve been named that guy several times over the past 14 years. So I think that it’s fleeting. It’s exciting, but I certainly don’t think he’s the best in the world. I think he’s probably one of the best guys in the UFC.
But all the best fighters are not in the UFC. So, hopefully he can hang on to that and make something out of it and gain some fame. But if I ran into him, they’d be calling me that guy.
SHAW: Before you go to the next question, until someone beats Frank, then Frank is the single best in the world. If Cung should beat Frank on March 29 in San Jose, then Cung Le will be the best in the world. And as Frank said, there is no single organization that owns the best fights or the best fighters. But in this case, the best fighter in the world, hands down, bar none, for sure, is Frank Shamrock.
QUESTION: Cung, your kicks are very wild. Are you worried about one of your kicks and your legs getting caught? I know Frank can stand with you, but if he does take you down with one of your leg kicks, are you worried about that?
LE: I’ve been working on the ground too, so if he does take me down, I’ll scramble to get back on my feet so we can keep it standing where he wants it.
SHAMROCK: Thank you.
QUESTION: Gary, have you ever seen the same type of reaction from the fans as you have seen for this main event between Cung Le and Frank Shamrock?
SHAW: Well, you know, every fight has its hype and every fight hopefully is a great promotion. I’ve got to say on behalf of Frank, he understands great promotions and what promoters do.
I thought the Kimbo fight in Miami had a huge amount of heat. Now we’re coming into San Jose, and we’re coming into California on the west coast. For me, this is the biggest fight that we’ve had. I believe this is a lot hotter even than Baroni.
But this is a case where it has intense heat in the Bay Area. And, in this case, there are two different gyms, two different fighters with a distinct fan base – both for Frank and Cung. And probably people that dislike each fighter equally as much as they like each fighter. So in a way it’s a promoter’s dream.
The gate is showing that, the attendance is showing that and the fans are going to be rewarded with a great fight. As I sit and listen to what Frank is saying and what Cung Le is saying, even I’m starting to try to think what Frank is going to do when he comes out and how is he going to do? And how Cung is going to react? So for me, it’s a great fight.
QUESTION: Jake, what’s the difference in training for this fight as opposed to training you’re your last fight against Mike Pyle?
SHIELDS: There is a difference in the fights. One, this is going to be a five?rounder, which is different, so you have to prepare a little more. They’re both good grapplers. (But) I think Drew’s a little stronger, a little more experienced.
So training is pretty similar. It is doing the same stuff. Basically I’m just ready. Only difference is I have a little more cardio in this one because I’m ready to fight five rounds instead of three.
QUESTION: Drew, what did you learn in your fight with Josh Koscheck?
SHIELDS: I learned from that fight that I wasn’t at the level that Koscheck was at; that I wasn’t going to try to wrestle with him. I didn’t wrestle at all in that fight. I planned on giving up the takedown or catch him into submission and trying to knock him out like I almost did a few times throughout the fight. I almost caught him on a couple of submissions and caught him with some knees. It worked out good for me.
Jake’s a good wrestler, but I think he would agree that neither of us are as good as Koscheck, who is undefeated as an NCAA Division 1 Champion. So I think the wrestling will be a little more both ways.
QUESTION: Drew, what is your prediction?
SHIELDS: I never predict fights. I just know it’s going to be one hell of a fight. And the rest of the card is so stacked as well. All night long it’s probably going to be the best fight card of not just the year, but maybe of the century.
WBC FEMALE FIGHTER OF THE YEAR CARINA MORENO LOOKING FORWARD TO MARCH 20 MATCHUP
Posted on | March 18, 2008 | No Comments
WBC FEMALE FIGHTER OF THE YEAR
CARINA “LA REINA” MORENO
March 18, 2008Moreno Belts
WBC minimumweight champion and female fighter of the year, Carina “La Reina” Moreno (16-1, 5 KO’s) gets back in the ring March 20, 2008 at the HP Pavilion in San Jose CA. Moreno will lock horns with Mayela “La Cobrita” Perez (7-5-1, 6 KO’s) from Saltillo, MX in a four round bout promoted by GoossenTutor Promotions.
Moreno who will be competing in the “You Be The Judge” originally unveiled at last November’s season finale at “The Tank” stated, “I’m excited to get back in the ring. Although it’s only a four round bout, I’m taking this fight very serious. Perez has a high knock out ratio and she will be coming to fight. I will without doubt be ready for this fight.” The concept: Make four 4 round preliminary killer bouts and then have the audience applaud its choice as the most outstanding boxer from the winners of those four bouts. Goossen Tutor will present the winner of “You Be The Judge” with a cash bonus from special VIP guest and legendary trainer Angelo Dundee.
Individual tickets, starting at $25, to the March 20 edition of “American Metal & Iron Fight Night at the Tank” are on sale at the HP Pavilion Ticket Office, Ticketmaster Ticket Centers located in Wherehouse Music stores, Tower Records and Ritmo Latino locations throughout the Bay Area; online at ticketmaster.com; or charge by phone at (408) 998-TIXS, (415) 421-TIXS or (510) 625-TIXS. Doors open at 6:30 pm. First bout at 7:30 pm.
‘Young’ Martinez steps in to take on heavy-handed Collins
Posted on | March 18, 2008 | No Comments
LEMOORE, Ca. — Phil Collins was training for a fight.
And as it so happens, that’s exactly what the Merced mixed martial artist will get on Thursday at the Tachi Palace Hotel and Casino at Palace Fighting Championship 7.
Collins (5-3) was scheduled for a PFC Middleweight eliminator fight with Newport Beach’s Justin Levens (9-8), but Levens sustained an injury in training and could not compete.
Lemoore’s Mike Martinez (3-1) will step in to take the fight on five days notice.
“We were looking forward to Collins vs. Levens. Both guys suffered losses to current champ Kenny Ento. Levens’ loss was a controversial one and Collins’ loss was cut and dry. But both guys had reasons to be in an elimination fight,” PFC President Christian Printup said. “A lot of people think fighting is brutal, but the training that the guys do is actually harder and Levens suffered a broken hand during training. Given the short notice, PFC Vice President Jacob Jeff and I came up with what we believe is a very interesting fight.”
Collins is not bothered by the change in the slightest.
“I fought on one card with [Martinez] and didn’t pay too much attention. I saw him win at Pure Combat in Visalia and he looks tough and big. I only see this fight going one way, though, a win for me,” Collins said. “I’m sure he’ll fight tough, but I think my experience will prevail. Short notice fights don’t matter. I used to fight for Gladiator where that happens a lot, so I train to fight and fight is what I will do.”
Collins is one of the top middleweight contenders in the PFC after defeating Visalia’s Marc De La Cruz by technical knockout in October.
“Collins hits like a truck and has a very improved ground game. I think this will be a heck of a fight. Who ever wins, will have earned a title shot,” Printup said.
The biggest question mark surrounds the 23-year-old Martinez, who is new to the sport and has just a year of extensive training with Lemoore’s Team Ochoa.
“I’m excited to be fighting for the No. 1 contender spot, and a shot at the 185-pound title. We currently have a great champion in [Lemoore’s] Kenny Ento and it would be an honor to step in the ring with a guy like him. First things first, though, Phil Collins is on my radar for now,” said Martinez. “I train with the well known and respected Team Ochoa in Lemoore. We train how we fight. I’m also up in Fresno at LA boxing with Cole Escovedo. I see myself as more of a counter fighter, I like to sit back and wait for my opponents to come at me and I capitalize on their mistakes.”
Martinez recently fought on February 29th in Visalia, beating Visalia’s Eli Moreno by triangle choke in 1:59 of the first round.
“Martinez is young, big, strong, athletic and not intimidated by Collins. Martinez doesn’t care who he fights and likes to take the tough fights when asked,” Printup said. “He is going in on short notice, but is in great shape. He hasn’t really stopped training after his most recent fight in Visalia. I think that he is a fighter on the rise and is a good prospect. He deserves this opportunity.”
Also on the card is a pair of PFC World Title fights, as light heavyweight champ Jeromy Freitag (6-5) of Sacramento will defend his title for the first time against Brazil’s Jorge Oliveira (2-2-1); and Arizona’s Richie Hightower (7-2) takes on Bakersfield’s Bryan Travers (9-1) for the vacant welterweight crown.
In other bouts;
—Fresno featherweight Jorge Evangelsita (5-2-1) vs. to Oregon’s Enoch Wilson (10-4-1).
—Arroyo Grande light heavyweight Glover Teixeira (5-2) vs. San Diego’s Buckley Acosta (4-4).
—Tulare heavyweight Carlton Jones (1-3) vs. Visalia’s Rafael Del Real (4-8).
—Turlock middleweight Jeremiah Metcalf (6-4) vs. Fresno’s Jimmy Dexter (2-4).
—Las Vegas flyweight Ulysses Gomez (0-0) vs. Cambria’s Greg McDowell (0-0).
—Tulare flyweight Daniel Pinedo (1-1) vs. Georgia’s David Mitchell (1-0).
—Sacramento lightweight Danny Castillo (3-0) vs. Merced’s Andy Salazar (0-2).
—Wasco heavyweight Manuel Quezada (0-0) vs. TBA
—Bakersfield featherweight Robert Breslin (3-7-1) vs. Stockton’s Brandon Jinnies (2-7).
Tickets are on sale and can be purchased at tickets.com or charge by phone 1-800-225-2277. There are less than 200 tickets left, as the PFC will sellout for the seventh straight show.
The weighins will be held at the Den Sports bar on Wednesday at 5 p.m. Fans are encouraged to attend. Fights start at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday with doors opening at 5:30.
For more breaking PFC news log on to www.palacefightingchampionship.com
AL BERNSTEIN NAMED CELEBRITY SPOKESPERSON FOR FIGHT NIGHT AT THE TANK
Posted on | March 18, 2008 | No Comments
The American Metal and Iron Fight Night at the Tank boxing series in San Jose, California, has tapped into one of boxing’s most popular names and potent marketers by bringing in Showtime Boxing analyst Al Bernstein to be the key spokesperson for the series this year.
Al will augment this excellent boxing series by, 1) writing boxing columns for direct internet delivery to the American Metal Fight Series subscriber base, 2) doing radio, print and television interviews on behalf of the boxing cards, and 3) making a guest appearance at one of the fight cards. This sustained and creative use of Al Bernstein utilizes Al’s ability as a writer, national television personality, and congenial host who treats his fan base with affection and respect.
This collaboration expands what has already been an extensive use of the “Bernstein brand” by casinos and promoters around the United States to enhance the value and marketing of their boxing programs. In fact, Al often gives seminars and programs at casino conventions in which he outlines the many methods of sustained marketing of boxing programs. Two such presentations will be at the NIGA’S Indian Gaming ’08 Trade Show and Convention on April 22, in San Diego and at the Casino Marketing Conference 2008-a conference for all casino marketing chiefs on July 22 in Las Vegas.
“One of the reasons the American Metal and Iron Fight Night series has been an enduring and successful endeavor is that they are always seeking new ways to market and add value to their product,” Al said. He added, “Doing that is a key to success with all boxing programs whether at casino or non casino venues. The element of reaching out to and entertaining their subscriber base through my boxing columns expands this concept in a clever way,” Al added.
IN OTHER NEWS:
Al Bernstein has signed another contract to continue as lead boxing analyst for the Showtime Championship Boxing series on Showtime Networks. This continues Al’s more than 25 year relationship with sports fans (especially boxing fans) around America. Al has been the preeminent “voice of boxing” while appearing on ESPN, NBC, Showtime, and pay per view events.
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