All posts by FNU47

BURGESS SIBLINGS READY TO BATTLE AT NEF 24

Lewiston, Maine (June 16, 2016) – As the only girl in a rough-and-tumble household with three older brothers in Mexico, Maine, Nicole Burgess learned how to fight for pride, for respect, sometimes even just for fun.

Sometimes such sibling rivalries are a challenge and burden. In Nicole’s case, however, the arrangement furnished three built-in fans and best friends. And the closest bond of all naturally formed with the family’s youngest boy, Ryan, exactly one year and three days older than his sister.

“We were born pretty much back-to-back,” said Ryan Burgess, the pride becoming perceptible in his voice. “She’s always been tough. She’s really strong, just very athletic.”

Ryan, 22, has backed up his three high school championships as a wrestler with a pair of impressive mixed martial arts wins and the New England Fights amateur flyweight title.

Not to be outdone, multi-sport athlete Nicole, 21, finished fourth against primarily male competition in the state wrestling meet her sophomore, junior and senior years of high school. She has carved out a successful college field hockey career at Plymouth State University in New Hampshire.

Similarly accomplished, so close in age, rarely seen apart from one another in childhood, Ryan and Nicole’s athletic and life stories remain intertwined as young adults. Nicole will follow her brother into the NEF cage on Saturday, June 18, making her debut against Alex Walker (0-1) in a 115-pound women’s bout at “NEF 24: Promised Land.”

Anybody who grew up with a brother or a sister probably can imagine the good-natured ribbing that has taken place in training camp.

“He thinks I’m probably going to want to throw up,” Nicole said with a laugh.

Ryan, who will defend his strap on the same card against Dustin Veinott in a rematch of their split-decision title tilt from November 2015, knows there is no substitute for experience in the cage.

Although he was one of the most accomplished wrestlers in the history of his proud community, Ryan discovered in his first two cage confrontations that the variety of skills and size of the crowd at an MMA event demanded a quantum leap.

“You don’t know what to expect,” he said. “Before my debut, I had never been in a fight in my life. I thought I had, but I really hadn’t. I told myself ‘It’s just another wrestling match,’ but it’s not.”

Burgess stuck with what he knew best and ground out a unanimous decision over Justin Witham in June 2015.

He was introduced as an independent. His studies at Kennebec Valley Community College interfered with his training schedule, and Burgess’ coaches at Berserkers MMA didn’t want him representing the stable until he spent a full cycle under their watchful eyes.

The same night, he scouted out Veinott’s win over Norman “Sleepy” Fox and felt that he compared favorably to both fighters. He proved it in a championship setting five months later, albeit by an on-paper verdict that most cage-side observers felt could have gone either way.

After struggling to find an opponent worthy for the title shot in his weight class, Burgess was eager to extend Veinott (4-4) a second chance.

“I’ve already been in the cage 18 minutes, which is more fight time than a lot of guys who’ve been in four of five fights can say they’ve had,” Ryan said. “I’m completely confident now with the venue, the fans. The only person I hear now is my coach.”

He doesn’t even hear Nicole, although little sister was so enamored with the environment as a spectator that she couldn’t wait to resume her own combat sports career.

“I always watched UFC and stuff like that,” she said. “I actually started boxing before Ryan even got into it.”

Nicole donned the gloves in high school after giving up softball. In sixth grade, she made a similar transition from basketball to wrestling after waiting for a ride home, watching one of Ryan’s grueling mat practices and deciding that it looked fun.

“It was weird at first. I didn’t want to touch the guys,” Nicole said. “Then you heard things like, ‘Oh, it’s just a girl.’ Often times the guys would be stronger, but I had good technique.”

Walker brings experience, in the form of a loss to Randi Beth Boyington, and a tough stand-up game.

Speaking with the typical subtlety of a big brother, Ryan said that Nicole “should be OK as long as she doesn’t get kicked in the head.”

He quickly noted that she has the poise and talent to enjoy a successful debut if she can shake off the requisite whirlwind of emotions.

“As long as she can put together everything she’s learned. You have to overcome the nerves and the adrenaline dump,” Ryan said. “I remember that from my debut. It stunk.”

Nicole said she would like to end the fight early but predicted that it probably will go the distance.

Her brother aims for his first stoppage and forecasts that his improved striking will catch Veinott and everyone else by surprise.

“Up until now, I was focused on school, just graduating in May, and trying to get my career started,” Ryan said. “I was working 40 hours a week for free as an internship and working 20 more hours on the weekend trying to make ends meet. Dustin is going to see a completely different fighter this time.”

The opening bell on June 18 is set for 7 p.m. The current docket includes five pro boxing fights, four pro MMA bouts and eight amateur MMA skirmishes. Tickets for “NEF 24: Promised Land” start at $25 and are available atwww.TheColisee.com or by calling the Colisee box office at 207.783.2009, extension 525.

For more information on the events and fight card updates, please visit the promotion’s website at www.NewEnglandFights.com.  In addition, you can watch NEF videos at www.youtube.com/NEFMMA, follow them on Twitter @nefights and join the official Facebook group “New England Fights.”

About New England Fights

New England Fights (“NEF”) is a fight events promotions company. NEF’s mission is to create the highest quality events for Maine’s fighters and fans alike. NEF’s executive team has extensive experience in combat sports management, events production, media relations, marketing, legal and advertising.

M-1 CHALLENGE 68 OFFICIAL WEIGHTS

PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
M-1 Challenge 68
WATCH ON M-1GLOBAL.TV
Thursday, June 16 at 11 a.m. ET / 8 a.m. PT in U.S.A.
 
OFFICIAL WEIGHTS
MAIN CARD
MAIN EVENT – M-1 GRAND PRIX MIDDLEWEIHT CHAMPIONSHIP – 5 X 5
ALEXANDER “Storm” SHLEMENKO (52-9-0, M-1: 3-0-0), Russia 184 1/2 lbs. (83.7 kg)
vs.
VYACHESLAV VASILEVSKY (28-4-0, M-1: 10-2-0), Russia 185 lbs. (84.0 kg)
CO-FEATURE – M-1 CHALLENGE HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP – 5 X 5
ALEXANDER “Drago” VOLKOV (25-6-0, M-1: 9-3-0), Russia 238 lbs. (108.0 kg)
vs.
ATTILA “Pumukli” VEGH (11-1-0, M-1: 7-1-0), Slovakia 220 lbs. (100.1 kg)
WELTERWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
SERGEI ROMANOV (8-1-0, M-1: 1-0-0), Russia 169 1/2 lbs. (76.9 kg)
vs.
ANDREAS BIRGELS (12-9-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Germany 169 1/2 lbs. (76.9 kg)

ABUKAR YANDIEV (4-1-0, M-1: 1-1-0), Russia 175 lbs. (79.5 kg)
vs.
TONY CHRISTODOULOU (12-6-0, M-1: 0-0-0), USA 177 1/2 lbs. (80.5 kg)
MIDDLEWEIGHTS — 3 X 5
ENOC SOLVES TORRES (18-9-0, M-1: 5-6-0), Spain 183 1/2 lbs. (83.7 kg)
vs.
VALERY “The Russian Hammer” MYASNIKOV (10-1-1, M-1: 1-1-1), Russia 184 1/2 lbs. (83.7 kg)
PRELIMINARY CARD
HEAVYWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
DANIIL AREPYEV (5-0-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Russia 271 lbs. (123.3 kg)
vs.
ANTON VYAZIGIN (5-1-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Russia 249 lbs. (113.5 kg)
WELTERWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
DANILA PRIKAZA (3-0-1, M-1: 2-0-0), Russia 169 1/2 lbs. (77.0 kg)
vs.
MAKSIM GRABOVICH (3-2-0, M-1: 3-0-0), Russia 169 1/2 lbs. (76.9 kg)
LIGHTWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
FELIPE REGO (7-2-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Brazil 154 1/2 lbs. (70.2 kg)
vs.
ALEXEY “Ataman” MAKHNO (10-4-0, M-1: 2-1-0), Russia 154 1/2 lbs. (70.1 kg)
 

MURODZHON KODIROV (1-0-0), M-1: 0-0-0), Russia 151 1/2 lbs. (68.9 kg)
vs.
MAKSIM PUGACHEV (2-0-0, M-1: 0-0-0) 154 1/2 lbs. (70.2 kg)
FEATHERWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
ANDREI “Iron” LEZHNEV (7-5-0, M-1: 1-2-0), Ukraine 145 lbs. (65.9 kg)
vs.
MIKHAIL KUZNETSOV (5-1-0, M-1: 2-1-0), Russia 144 1/2 lbs. (65.6 kg)
WHEN:             Thursday, June 16, 2016
WHERE:           St. Petersburg, Russia
PROMOTER:    M-1 Global
LIVE STREAM: www.m-1global.tv (11 a.m. ET / 8 a.m. PT in USA) 
 
Information

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QUOTES & PHOTOS FROM DEONTAY WILDER VS. CHRIS ARREOLA BIRMINGHAM, AL PRESS CONFERENCE

 
Fighters Discuss July 16 Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) On FOX & FOX Deportes From The Legacy Arena In Birmingham
 
Click HERE For Photos
Photo Credit: Bill Hoffman/Bruno Event Team
Birmingham, AL (June 15) – Two of the biggest and best talkers in the sport of boxing met face to face today. WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder was on stage at a press conference in Birmingham, AL and two-time heavyweight title challenger Chris Arreola via Skype from his training camp in San Diego to officially announce their heavyweight title showdown taking place Saturday, July 16 from the Legacy Arena live on Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on FOX and FOX Deportes.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and TGB Promotions in association with Bruno Event Team, start at only $20 are on sale now. For tickets please visit www.alabamatitlefight.com and www.ticketmaster.com.
Both combatants were joined by promoters at the Legacy Arena where Wilder and Arreola will meet in the ring on July 16:
Deontay Wilder, WBC Heavyweight World Champion
“Everyone knows what happened to my last fight. I was super prepared. I put my body through everything you can go through in the gym. Of course everyone knows what happened with Povetkin with my last fight. I was super prepared and everything. Traveled to a whole other country and continued training. I was a different fighter – a different Deontay with everything I did.
“I was ready to represent my country too. Things happen. This is boxing. It is a business. The saying is, ‘One door closes and another one opens.’ This is a prime example of that. This opportunity is opened wide. I understand being patient and patience is a virtue. I’ve been patient all my life. I am not an overnight success. I don’t believe in luck.
“As you see Chris Arreola stayed patient. You wonder why he continued to get title fights. It is his time. Some guys get chances after chances and some don’t. You can’t deny him. You can’t look past him. With the circumstances that we were facing, to come back and do a short notice-type fight, as far as looking for opponents, we knew it had to be the right person.
“Placing someone in a category doesn’t define who they are. We needed a fighter that would fit the description that he would fight with his heart, give it his all.
“I’m happy to introduce you to Chris Arreola. He is the perfect person for this opportunity. I don’t think there is anyone else who could take on this situation.
“We love working with the Legacy Arena and Birmingham. Each and every time, we add to history. People have been waiting for this, to have another fight here. It is crazy how you can seed and watch the love grow and now its blooming.
“People are hungry for boxing here. They’re excited. Those that missed the first title fight, came to the second. Those who missed the second are going to come to this one. We are going to sell out the venue.
“We’ve been in camp. I am never out of shape. Just adding on to it. I’m tired, but this is what I love to do. If you love to do something, it isn’t really a job. So this is what I am dedicating my life to. This is what I am trained to do. I think it is what I was born to do.”
Chris Arreola, Two-Time Heavyweight World Title Challenger
“I’m ready for this opportunity to fight Deontay. I’m going to get up there and give everyone in Birmingham a great show. That is my job. I always come ready to fight. I always come ready for a brawl.
“Deontay is one of the biggest names. One of the better names out there because of his skills that he has shown. I have to be prepared.
“I have to make the best out of this opportunity. He is doing what he is supposed to do as a champion. He is defending his title.
“I have to approach this fight different than any others. I have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Deontay has a lot to lose. He is going to come prepared. He knows what kind of fighter I am. I am going to give it my all.
“Deontay is a tough S.O.B. An athlete has to be ready for that right hand and that jab. Be careful and be ready at all times.
“I love boxing. I love boxing fans whether they are with me or against me. They give energy to their fighters and it is just me and Deontay in the ring. There is no one that will be able to help Deontay and no one that can help me when that bell rings. That is what I love about boxing. It is the most gentlemanly sport there is. At the end of the day, it is going to be one-on-one.
Jay Deas, Wilder’s Trainer
“When the Povetkin fight was called off, we were gutted. Then we were told we could have a fight and do it soon. We were already in shape so when we heard about a fight, we could take it.
“The mayor [of Birmingham] called me and said he wanted this fight to be in Birmingham…This is how Birmingham works. This is why Birmingham works. They put the foot on the gas pedal and get the job done. I thank the city of Birmingham and everyone involved in his event. It is going to be fantastic.
“You cannot find a more action-packed fighter than Chris Arreola. If you’re not a Chris Arreola fan, you’re not a boxing fan. He is everything you want out of a fighter. He is tough, he is strong, he punches hard. He is determined. He is resilient. Then you have Deontay Wilder, the most athletic heavyweight in generations.
“You can see thee guys fight for 20 dollars. With an undercard of 15 fights, you’re talking about a dollar and some change per fight and its going to be on FOX for the world.
“Birmingham came through and we are thrilled they did. Deontay Wilder is the reason this is happening. He is the guy that wants to fight every three or four months. He is the guy that wants to be the most active heavyweight and he is well on his way to doing it.”
Kevin Rooney, DiBella Entertainment
“Sometimes in boxing as is in life, fortunate situations come out of unfortunate circumstances, and that is what we have here. While it was a disappointment for all of us, especially Deontay, what happened with his title defense against Povetkin, we are fortunate that Deontay will now be making the next defense of his world title back here at home in Alabama. Live on free network TV as this is a PBC on FOX event.
“From a stylistic standpoint, this is one of the most exciting fights to be made in the heavyweight division. Chris Arreola always brings it and we expect him to come out throwing bombs from the opening bell.
“Chis has twice challenged for the heavyweight world title before and he believes that the third time is the charm as he looks to become the first Mexican heavyweight champion in history.
“As Deontay has said before though, he plans on holding onto that WBC belt for the rest of his career, as well as adding a couple more to put around his waist and we know that he will be even more fired up, once again fighting in front of that hometown Alabama crowd, and we expect absolute fireworks inside an electric arena on July 16.”
Gene Hallman, Bruno Event Team
“The most remarkable thing is that this is the third heavyweight title fight in just over one year in Birmingham, Alabama and that is because of Deontay Wilder.
“The only other city that has ever done this is Las Vegas, Nevada. Birmingham is right there with them with a unique mark in boxing history.
“I truly believe that this will be substantially bigger than the other two heavyweight title fights here. We went on sale yesterday and we are far ahead of the pace that we were at last year. Fans from around the country are buying tickets.”
# # #
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com,www.alabamatitlefight.comwww.dbe1.com,www.TGBPromotions.com,http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and foxdeportes.com follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @BronzeBomber, @NightmareBoxing @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @LouDiBella, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing,www.facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainmentwww.facebook.com/foxsports andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Follow the conversation using #PBConFOX. PBC on FOX is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
There will be two more hours of boxing on FS1 and FOX Deportes at 10 p.m. ET, immediately following the Wilder vs. Arreola fight on FOX. Further details will be announced shortly.

Top 5 Tips On Choosing Martial Arts Training Camp

Whether you are a beginner or a pro, choosing a martial arts training camp is a tough decision. I’d like to share with you the top 5 tips on choosing the right camp from 8 martial arts experts that will help you simplify the daunting selection process. Read on!

  1. Class size

 

Similar to any other kind of training, if you happen to be a beginner in MMA, it’s best to stick to a smaller-sized class. Regardless of your level, the smaller the class, the more 1-on-1 attention and supervision your trainer is able to give you. Ideally, a training class only consists of 3-4 trainees per coach. You should steer clear of any class that has more than 10 students for each trainer.

 

As MMA is considered one of the most ‘brutal’ combat sports out there, your trainer will need to closely supervise your techniques and provide you with more guidance to minimize the likelihood of injuries during your practice. With a large-sized class, it’s unlikely that they would be able to give the attention you need.

 

  1. Equipment

 

According to Aaron of Fight Quality, the most important equipment in an MMA gym is properly padded mats on the floor. This way, you are likely to minimize injuries when you get knocked down during a fight. Most MMA establishments should have a cage; however, some may have a ring instead.

 

MMA gyms should also have high quality pads to hold. Good gyms will have a nice selection of pads, from boxing mitts, to Thai style kick pads to strike shields. These will be used by either one of the gym’s instructors or students in partner exercises.

 

When practicing striking, another important thing to look out for are heavy bags. Bags come in all shapes and sizes, and most gyms will have a selection of several types. These are great for perfecting techniques on your own.

 

To recap, a good MMA training camp should also have the following:

 

  • Rings or cages
  • Punching or spar bags
  • Boxing equipment
  • Full weights equipment
  • Fitness & cardio machines

 

Quality training camps and gyms may also offer ‘spare’ gear available to use or rent. This may be an alternative if you are only going to be using it only a couple of times. Even though these gears are probably cleaned after every use, it’s always best to buy your own in order to ensure the best quality and hygiene.

 

  1. Price

 

Prices for MMA training camps vary greatly depending on the level of trainers, location, facilities & equipment, and so forth. However, it doesn’t always mean that a cheaper training camp has less qualified trainers than more expensive one. For example, to give you a better idea on the price range, a budget option of Super Pro’s 1 month MMA & Muay Thai training in Thailand is priced as low as US$ 344 (includes 30 days/29 nights acommodation) whereas a more luxury option such as Evolve MMA retreat in Singapore would cost you US$ 2490 (also includes 30 days/29 nigths acommodation). Despite on different price ranges, there are positive reviews for both types of camps, and their visitors have shared that they significantly developed their skills after their training, which illustrates that lower-priced training camp doesn’t necessarily equal to low quality of training.

 

  1. Training program

In order to evaluate the price range, you might want to compare the training program that is offered. Typically, you will undergo at least 3 training sessions in different martial arts training disciplines. Some training courses offer additional classes such as yoga, meditation, or cross training sessions. Whether you are a beginner, an intermediate, or a pro, it’s advisable to always carefully weigh out the fee of the training camp against what is being offered. Take your time and feel free to ask around and make comparisons in determining whether the price tag is ‘worth it’ to invest in.

 

  1. Location

If you are more serious about your training and looking to hone your skills in MMA, location may not be a huge variable that you need to take into account in making your selection. You can instead focus on evaluating which options would best assist you in becoming the great MMA champion you are striving to become. Sean of Muay Thai Guy also shared his insights in terms of location: “The people and the coaches make the place doesn’t matter if you are training in a remote place or in a busy city it all comes down to the people and how they treat you as an individual, but if the camp is near a beach, that’s always a plus!”

 

If you are curious and want  to learn more  on  choosing an MMA training camp, check out the full version of ‘The Definite Guide On Choosing the right MMA training camp’ created by BookMartialArts.com in collaboration with 8 top experts in MMA and related disciplines!

BELLATOR MMA SIGNS FOUR-TIME NCAA DIVISION II WRESTLING CHAMP JOEY DAVIS

Newest Bellator MMA acquisition Joey Davis

SANTA MONICA, Calif. (June 15, 2016) – Bellator MMA is thrilled to announce the signing of NCAA Division II wrestling star Joey Davis, to an exclusive multi-year, multi-fight contract. The signing was first reported by FloWrestling.com’s Jeremy Botter.

 

Davis joins a string of recent signings by Bellator president Scott Coker including standout wrestlers the likes of three-time All-American Jarod Trice and Olympic contender Tyrell Fortune. The 21-year-old standout wrestler competed at Notre Dame College, where he accumulated an incredible undefeated 131-0 record and four consecutive NCAA Division II Championships during his college tenure, becoming the only Division II wrestler to ever win four national titles and go unbeaten in a career. Davis will look to compete in Bellator MMA’s stacked welterweight division and will make his professional debut before the end of this year.

 

“With God you can achieve anything, and I’m gonna do it with high fashion,” Davis said. “Joining Bellator is my latest achievement to date.  I don’t remember what it’s like to lose, and I’m not planning on finding out any time soon.”

(L to R) Joey Davis, Antonio McKee and A.J. McKee

 

Named 2016 “Man of the Year” by Wrestling USA Magazine, the Compton, Calif., native began his stretch of domination as early as the ninth grade, when he attended Sante Fe High School. Davis was crowned the California State champion at 152-pounds in his junior year and followed that impressive campaign with a second State Title at 160-pounds in his senior year.

 

Davis will train at Antonio McKee’s Body Shop Gym in Long Beach, Calif. alongside childhood best friend and Bellator featherweight wrecking machine AJ McKee. Davis joins a budding roster of Bellator MMA talent, with recent signings that include: Matt Mitrione, Benson Henderson, Jarrod Trice, Sergei Kharitonov, and recent re-signings the likes of Darrion Caldwell and Michael Chandler.

Andrzej Fonfara, Joe Smith Jr., Juan Carlos Payano, Rau’shee Warren, Erickson Lubin, Daniel Sandoval, Hugo Centeno  & Maciej Sulecki Media Workout Quotes & Photos

 
PBC on NBC Tripleheader Saturday, June 18 From 
UIC Pavilion in Chicago
8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. ET
 
Click HERE For Photos From 
Nabeel Ahmad/Premier Boxing Champions
 
CHICAGO (June 15, 2016) – Fight week kicked-off in Chicago on Wednesday forPremier Boxing Champions on NBC taking place this Saturday, June 18 at the UIC Pavilion headlined by light heavyweight bruiser Andrzej Fonfara battling hard-hitting New Yorker Joe Smith Jr.
Televised coverage begins at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT and features a bantamweight world championship rematch between Juan Carlos Payano and Rau’shee Warren plus rising star Erickson Lubin battling Mexico’s Daniel Sandoval. At 11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT, PBC coverage switches to NBCSN and will feature a battle of unbeaten middleweights as Hugo Centeno Jr. takes on Poland’s Maciej Sulecki.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing and Star Boxing, are priced at $201, $101, $61 and $41, not including applicable service charges, and are on sale now. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000 or UIC Pavilion Box Office at (312) 413-5740. Tickets are also available atwww.ticketmaster.com or by visiting the UIC Pavilion Box Office (Thursday or Friday9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.).
Wednesday’s media workout took place at Oakley Fight Club in Chicago as the fighters showed off their skills for the media heading into fight night.
Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:
ANDRZEJ FONFARA
“I’m in great shape right now. Camp went very well. We had great sparring and conditioning. I’m definitely ready to fight.
“We’ve seen a couple of his fights. He’s a young, tough guy. I know that I must win the fight. I’m prepared and I will be victorious.
“I expect this fight to be a real battle. I’m not going to stop throwing punches. I will control the ring and find my spots. I definitely want to give my fans the knockout.
“Fighting in Chicago is a great motivation for me because I have such outstanding support here. I always want to entertain my fans so they keep coming back to watch me perform.
“I was the underdog my whole career. Now in this position, it’s even better. I’m motivated by being in this position. I know my opponent feels overlooked and that will add to his motivation, but I’m ready.”
JOE SMITH JR.
“We’ve done some traveling in camp to get excellent sparring and overall it’s just been a great camp. I’m excited to be here and ready to get in the ring. I’m happy to have this opportunity because I worked so hard for it. I’m looking to put on a show.
“This is a big chance and if I win I can open up a lot of doors. I just need to do what I do best and hopefully I’ll be in a world title fight next.
“I love representing Long Island and New York. I want to bring a title back home.
“I’m going to give it my all and at the end of the night I should come out on top.”
JUAN CARLOS PAYANO
“People can expect a great fight with the same result as the first matchup. I will come out the victor.
“As far as any controversy from the first fight, it was a close fight. I could have made it easier but nevertheless it was what it was.
“At the end of the day, I am the world champion and I took the fight to the challenger. That alone warrants a win. Warren connected at a high percentage but mostly with small body shots that didn’t affect me.
“Warren is the second best fighter in the division and I have no bad feelings towards him. I respect him as an accomplished amateur, but this is not the amateurs. This is a 12-round battle and the same result will come on Saturday night.
“I’ve prepared in the same fashion that I always do. I train all out and I give it my all in the ring.
“I understand my mistakes from the first fight and I know they’re corrected coming in. I’m sure Rau’shee has made his own adjustments. No matter how many times we fight, it will be this same kind of exciting battle.
“I’m going to prevail as the world champion that I am. I will show that there really was no controversy. I’m going to be decisive and make sure that the judges will have no option but to give me each round.
“I’ve been on the big stage before so there is no extra pressure on me. I believe I’m the underdog in this fight but with a win I can show how great I really am.”
RAU’SHEE WARREN
“This camp I’ve been sparring with a lot of bigger guys and guys with similar styles to Payano. This camp overall has been great. There’s been a lot of energy in.
“I’ve been getting ready for this since the first fight. That’s going to be the biggest difference from the last fight.
“I’m expecting Payano to try to prove himself. He’s going to bring his all and put it all on the line, just like I will.
“It’s been such an unbelievable camp working in D.C. with Lamont Peterson and his coach, Barry Hunter, along with my coach, Mike Stafford.
“This fight is going to be different. I know it. I’m coming in there to fight. He might think he has the blueprint, but it’s a different story every time. I don’t know if this fight is going 12.
“This is going to take my name up to another level.  The world can see me fight. People are ready for the rematch and they’re excited to see what we bring to the table.
“I’m going to do what I do. I’ll feel him out, then take control. It’s important to stick to my plan. I’m not thinking about anything else but me and Payano.
“I’m ready to bring something different. If he misses, I’m going to make him pay. He brought the dog out of me last fight and it will be out again. I have a lot to bring to the table.”
ERICKSON LUBIN
“Training camp was great. I had a lot of time to improve my game and I feel like this Saturday I will be more than prepared. I’m planning on putting on a show.
“I always want to be in tough matchups. It’s been tougher every time and I’ve still come out victorious. That won’t change on Saturday. I’m moving up the ladder and I’m ready.
“I’ve always known I would get here because I believe in myself and my team believes in me. I’m chasing that world title.
“I picture myself breaking my opponent down. If he makes a mistake I’ll knock him out early. No matter what, I’m going to dominate the fight and come out victorious.”
DANIEL SANDOVAL
“I’m very happy with training. It’s been a great camp and now I’m just getting ready to weigh-in and get in the ring.
“The kid is a good fighter. He’s young and skilled but I know that I am going to get this victory.
“I’m a Mexican. Mexicans are hungry and we want to win. I have better technique and I’ve done my studying. I’m going to come forward and win the fight.”
HUGO CENTENO JR.
“I’m really excited. I feel strong and ready for fight night. Fortunately, I was able to have a nice long training camp with Eric Brown.
“There’s been a long layoff but now we’re here and ready to keep it going. I’m a gym rat. So I’ve been in the gym for six months. The layoff won’t hurt me, I just love to get in the ring.
“I’m an aggressive boxer, but if I have to mix it up on the inside I will happily do it. I like to fight smart, I’m a lanky fighter and I can fight right handed or southpaw.
“I’m an aggressive boxer, but if I have to mix it up on the inside I will happily do it. I like to fight smart, I’m a lanky fighter and I can fight right handed or southpaw.”
“My opponent is about my size and it should be a really good matchup. We’re both undefeated which should make it fun. Honestly, I don’t think he’s fought someone at my caliber yet, but we’ll see on Saturday.”
MACIEJ SULECKI
“We’re going to find out how hard this fight is when I get in the ring. Only then can we see what my opponent really can do.
“No matter what, there can only be one winner and it will be me. I will win decisively.
“I’ve only seen one of his fights. He has a come-forward style and he’s tall. It won’t be about him though. It’s going to be about what I can do in there.
“I’m not a guy who thinks about how each round will go. But I have a general idea of what I want to do and how I want to get the victory.”
follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @Andrzej_Fonfara, @JC_Payano, @RausheeWarren, @EricksonHammerL, @WarriorsBoxProm, @StarBoxing and @NBCSports and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing,www.Facebook.com/WarriorsBoxingPromo, www.Facebook.com/StarBoxing andwww.Facebook.com/NBCSports. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on NBC is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Weight Training for Fighters

In the past fighters would stay far away from weight training, thinking it would make them slow, but research has proven otherwise, mainly because there are different kinds of strength. Any fighter, from all styles, is looking to develop speed strength and explosive strength.

The highly regarded sports bio-chemist Vladimir Zatsiorsky, was a well-recognized strength coach/consultant for the Olympic teams that were competing for the Soviet Union many years ago.  He said the ability for any athlete to produce the most maximal force in minimal time is known as explosive strength. He says that a strong body does not necessarily mean strong explosive strength.

It is clear that developing one type of strength like max strength will not guarantee development of another type of strength like explosive strength or speed strength. Speed strength is defined as the ability to execute any unloaded movement against a small resistance very quickly.

A good example would be punching a heavy punch-bag which would be considered a small external resistance. The few ounces of weight that your gloves weigh would be insufficient to qualify as minimal resistance. But, all fighters should note that excessive max strength training may eventually impair strength speed, reducing the technical speed of a good boxer.

Strength endurance is different as it is defined as maintaining the muscular function/integrity of the muscles for longer periods. No matter what style a fighter uses, strength endurance is vitally important for any competitive combat fighter. Having a whole lot of power and speed with no stamina is not going to get a fighter very far.

Combat sporting events require the athlete to be multifaceted and well-rounded when it comes to strength preparation. Developing max strength at the expense of other strengths is not going to help the athlete.  A fighter needs a completely unique blend of these strengths.

It does not mean that fighters should never do max training to improve their strength, a fighter needs to understand a bit of muscle physiology to be able to appreciate how important max training could be for a fighter. Muscle fibers are always grouped into different motor units.

These motor units each contain one nerve and hundreds of separate muscle fibers. The nerve delivers the signal for a muscle to fire, slow or fast twitch, depending on how many reps, the weight used and the muscle(s) isolated. The muscle fibers are then contracted when the signal is delivered.

Training specifically for power development, a fighter needs to target only the fast twitch muscle-fibers. But unfortunately, not all of the motor units will be activated at once. Any and all low intensity exercise will not activate the important fast twitch fibers.

If the exercise that a fighter performs does not stimulate any fast-twitch motor units, then the muscle fibers inside that motor unit will not be able to adapt to the training. If the motor unit isn’t being recruited, no response will happen. But when the athlete lifts heavy loads they’ll be activating fast-twitch muscle fibers.

Strength coaches across the world recognize the importance of maximal strength training because it is the best way to improve both intramuscular and intermuscular coordination, required for any fighter.

Despite what you might have heard about heavy weight training, it’s a common myth that all heavy weight training will only result in unnecessary bulk, which will then reduce the range of motion and the speed development. This is totally false, any fighter considering strength training will improve his/her competitiveness in the ring.

The well-known Russian coach Yuri Verkhoshansky, said in one of his manuals that when any effective methodology is used for planning a weight training routine, the resistance used will promote an increase in speed of a movement but will also improve muscle coordination, motor-reaction plus the quickness and the frequency of the movements.

He continues by explaining that the primary function of a muscle is not to increase size when strength training, but rather to increase the contractibility for effective nervous stimulation. He explains that strength training correctly will increase the ability of your muscle to relax while developing local muscular endurance and it will increase the maximal anaerobic capacity of that muscle group.

About The Author:

Paul Becker is a natural (steroid free for life) bodybuilder and fitness consultant. Visit his website at http://www.bodybuilding-store.com

Help us Pack the Mack!

It’s that time again! Our entirely FREE show is on Saturday, June 25th at the Thomas & Mack Center on the campus of UNLV.  Tickets can be printed at UNLVTickets.com or picked up from any MMA gym or promotional partner in Las Vegas.

Doors open at 5:30pm with the first fight starting at 6:00pm.  Seating is open and first come, first served so get there early! All ages welcome.

 

Who will be the next Future Star of MMA?
Come to the show and find out!

ARTUR BETERBIEV WON’T FIGHT IN RIO OLYMPICS

MONTREAL, Canada (June 15, 2016) After careful consideration, rising Groupe Yvon Michel (GYM) star and double Russian Olympian, Artur Beterbiev, will not take part in the qualifying process to earn a spot to compete in the 2016 Summer Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

An Olympic qualifying tournament for professional boxers will be held July 3-8 in Vargas, Venezuela, following the decision of the International Amateur Boxing Association (AIBA) to include professionals in the Olympic tournament.

However, Beterbiev (10-0, 10 KOs), who made a triumphant return to the ring after a one-year absence on June 4 at the Bell Centre in Montreal against Argentinian Ezequiel Maderna (23-3, 15 KOs), will not be there.

“After analyzing all situations, we came to the conclusion that the current situation was not favorable,” GYM president Yvon Michel explained.  “The short-term goal for Artur Beterbiev is to become world champion in the pro ranks. He will be back in the ring in September.”
 
Currently world ranked in the top 10 of the light heavyweight division — IBF # 2,  WBC and WBA #4, WBO #7 and The Ringmagazine #9 — Beterbiev has already participated in the Olympics twice: 2008 in Beijing (178 lbs.) and 2012 in London (201 lbs.).

“Regardless of my boxer’s objectives, ” Beterbiev’s head trainerMarc Ramsey said, “I’m behind him 100-percent.  However, the main goal remains the conquest of a World title.”
 
INFORMATION:
Twitter:  @YvonMichelGYM, @ABeterbiev
Instagram:  @YvonMichelGYM, @ArturBeterbiev

JUAN CARLOS PAYANO “I’ll be ready for war. Warren is in trouble”

Photos By Team Pro Box Management
MIAMI, FL (June 15, 2016) – In an anticipated rematch, WBA and IBO bantamweight champion, Juan Carlos Payano (17-0, 8 KOs), is ready to defend his titles against Rau’shee Warren (13-1, 4 KOs) and show the world he’s the king at 118 pounds.  The 12-round co-main event bout scheduled for this Saturday, June 18, 2016, will take place at the UIC Pavilion in Chicago, Illinois.  Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on NBC will broadcast the event live starting at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT.
Payano, who won a split decision against Warren in their first bout, wrapped up his final day of training camp yesterday and vows to come out victorious when the two meet again this Saturday.  After a great camp. Payano is ready for war.
“I had a great training camp and everyone will see the improvements I’ve made since I fought Warren last August.” said Payano. “Once I settle in Chicago, I’ll be well rested and right on weight.”
“I’ve had a lot of time to reflect on my strengths and weaknesses.  I’ve put in a lot of work during this training camp, to better myself, and I feel I’m at the top of my game right now.  I’m going to leave everything in the ring on Saturday night.  I have the blueprint to beat Warren.  I’ll be ready for war.  There is no doubt in my mind that my hands will be raised in victory once again. Warren is in trouble”