 MONTE CARLO, Monaco (March 14, 2016)- World Mixed Martial Arts Association (WMMAA) President Vadim Finkelchtein, who founded the sanctioning organization in 2012, continues to lead WMMAA and the sport into a very bright future.
 In four short years, WMMAA has alreadydeveloped into the strongest sanctioning body in the MMA world, hosting some of the sport’s most prestigious championships, as well as creating a highly respected culture in throughout sports worldwide.Finkelchtein answered some pertinent questions below about WMMAA, its past and future, in addition to addressing the growth of mixed martial arts:
Can you tell us about you and your experience in Martial Arts?
VF: “I practiced judo when I was a kid. Back then there was no MMA whatsoever.” How did you first enter the world of MMA?
VF: “In 1995, I was offered an opportunity to sponsor an MMA event. That’s when I learned about and fell in love with no holds barred, or free-fight, as it was called then. In 1997, I organized my own event in Russia. The rest is history.” When did you first hear of MMA and what was your first impression? Did What is your function and main activities within WMMAA? How would you assess WMMAA’s progress during its three year existence?
VF: “WMMAA is still in its infancy. Yes, we lack experience and financing, and MMA is a new kind of sport in many regions. But I have to say that we’re growing and the last World Championship in Czech Republic proved it. Over 40 national teams flew to Prague with over 200 athletes. The level of competition evolved so much. The organizational level was also high and we are thankful to our Czech MMA Federation for its great work. This World Championship proved there is demand for MMA around the world.” What are the main goals of WMMAA and what are the main obstacles facing Were there any countries that stood out or surprised you?
VF: “China surprised me a lot. They joined WMMAA recently but since then they’ve shown solid results. Also, I enjoyed the performance of Latin American teams. It was their debut but one Colombian kid (Andrey Roa Ruiz Dumar) won a bronze medal and that was great. Once again, Russia won the majority of the medals due to amateur MMA there developing with extremely rapid strides ever since early 2012. Fedor Emelianenko is the main locomotive and driving force in Russia. The selection process there is just unbelievable. You can’t imagine how many steps one needs to make in order to become the champion of the Russian Federation. The City Championship, Oblast Championship, regional and national championship. Each of these events consists of at least three fights, which means that a Russian champion will probably have had at least won 15 fights under his belt by the time of the European or World Championships. Only truly the best get to the top. Imagine this: around 7,000 athletes participated in the aforementioned events in 2015.”
What are the 2016 mid-term goals for WMMAA? Can you describe what 2015 was like for WMMAA? What words of wisdom would you like to share with the members of WMMAA family?
VF: “I’d ask all WMMAA members to adhere to the agreements and decisions we reached collectively. It pertains to the set of rules, judging process, equipment, unified rules, and youth sports development.”
WMMAA keeps expanding, however, there are still multiple countries that are not yet WMMAA members. Why should any local Federation apply for WMMAA membership?
VF: “WMMAA is the strongest MMA organization there is. We plan to continuously hold regional and world championships and keep developing and evolving. Athletes’ ethical upbringing is also our target. We believe this sport can give so much to the world in various ways and we put a lot of effort into its development. We’ll gladly accept strong and worthy partners into our ranks.”
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Category Archives: Amateur MMA
LIGHTWEIGHT FIGHT AT NEF 22 WILL FEATURE TWO RETURNING ATHLETES
Lewiston, Maine (March 14, 2016) – New England Fights (NEF), America’s number-one regional fight promotion, will hold its next event, “NEF 22: ALL ROADS LEAD HERE” on Saturday, April 23, 2016 at the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine. The fight card will feature a mix of mixed-martial-arts (MMA) and professional boxing bouts. Earlier today, NEF announced the addition of an amateur lightweight bout to the MMA portion of the “NEF 22” fight card. Jeremy Tyler (4-3) will take on Corey Trial (1-2) at a fight weight of 150-pounds.
On April 23rd, it will be 19-months since Jeremy Tyler’s last appearance in the NEF MMA cage. In September of 2014, Tyler, a member of Team Irish in Brewer, Maine, lost to Matt Denning (2-1) via second-round submission. It was a fitting finish as all of Tyler’s seven previous bouts, whether wins or losses, have ended with a submission. Tyler’s last victory came in February of 2014 with a second-round arm triangle choke submission of Corey Hinkley (2-4). At “NEF 22,” Tyler will look to pick up his first win in over two years.
“I’m happy to have the opportunity to get back into the NEF cage,” said Tyler. “I have put in a lot of time into improving my skill set. I feel amazing going into this fight with Cory Trial. On April 23rd, everyone is going to see that I’m back.”
Like Tyler, Cory Trial’s most recent win in the NEF cage was over Corey Hinkley. It was a stunning first-round knockout (KO) that was a finalist in the voting for NEF’s “KO of the Year” in 2015. It was also the quickest victory ever in the NEF cage, clocking in at a mere seven-seconds. Trial has not competed since a September 2015 loss to Rafael Velado (3-0) as he has been nursing several injuries. Training out of Ruthless MMA & Boxing of Benton, Maine, Trial predicts another KO finish at “NEF 22.”
“First, I want to thank NEF for giving me this opportunity and thank Jeremy for taking the fight,” said Trial. “I’ve been dealing with a couple injuries the last few months and it’s given me time to reflect and get my game right and in this fight everybody will see that I’m back! I was dealing with a couple of injuries leading up to my last fight, but I showed up ’cause I love to fight. I’m healthy now, training with the best team around and you’ll see the best Cory you’ve seen. This fight won’t go to the judges – I’ll be coming for the knockout! This is a fight you won’t want to miss!”
New England Fights’ next event, “NEF 22: ALL ROADS LEAD HERE,” takes place Saturday, April 23, 2016 at the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine. Tickets for “NEF 22” start at just $25 and are on sale now at www.TheColisee.com or by calling the Colisée box office at 207.783.2009 x 525. For more information on the event 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.”
RECENTLY VACATED FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE TO BE FILLED AT NEF 22
Lewiston, Maine (March 11, 2016) – New England Fights (NEF), America’s number-one regional fight promotion, will hold its next event, “NEF 22: ALL ROADS LEAD HERE” on Saturday, April 23, 2016 at the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine. The fight card will feature a mix of mixed-martial-arts (MMA) and professional boxing bouts. Earlier today, NEF announced the addition of an amateur featherweight title bout to the MMA portion of the “NEF 22” fight card. Caleb Hall (6-3) will take on Erik Nelson (2-2) for the vacant NEF MMA Amateur Featherweight Title. The championship was vacated earlier this week when previous champion Aaron Lacey (6-1) announced that he would enter the professional ranks at “NEF 22.”
Caleb Hall is a member of the Choi Institute of Portland, Maine. He was a two-time Maine state champion wrestling for Dirigo High School in Dixfield. Hall later wrestled for both Plymouth State University (PSU) in New Hampshire and the University of Southern Maine (USM). He began competing in MMA in September 2012, making his debut at “NEF IV.” Hall last appeared in the NEF cage this past fall, scoring an impressive first-round submission victory over Matt Tamayo (0-1). He feels that his wrestling experience will carry him to the featherweight title on April 23rd against Nelson.
“I’m very excited to fight for the belt I have worked for,” said Hall. “My wrestling and constant pressure will be a big problem for Nelson. The scrambles and pressure will fold him and I’ll get the finish.”
Erik Nelson is a member of Central Maine Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (CMBJJ) located in Lewiston, Maine where he is a jiu-jitsu instructor. In December, he was awarded his brown belt by head coach Travis Wells. A few weeks later, Nelson would go on to defeat Julio Martinez (0-2) at “NEF 21.” Nelson believes his jiu-jitsu will be the deciding factor when he meets Caleb Hall for the amateur featherweight title on April 23rd.
“I am very excited for the opportunity to fight for a title in my hometown,” said Nelson. “Caleb is a talented wrestler, but I feel my jiu-jitsu is far superior. No matter where the fight goes, I see my hand being raised at the end.”
New England Fights’ next event, “NEF 22: ALL ROADS LEAD HERE,” takes place Saturday, April 23, 2016 at the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine. Tickets for “NEF 22” start at just $25 and are on sale now at www.TheColisee.com or by calling the Colisée box office at 207.783.2009 x 525. For more information on the event 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.”
HEAVYWEIGHT CLASH ADDED TO NEF 22 FIGHT CARD
Lewiston, Maine (March 10, 2016) – New England Fights (NEF), America’s number-one regional fight promotion, will hold its next event, “NEF 22: ALL ROADS LEAD HERE” on Saturday, April 23, 2016 at the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine. The fight card will feature a mix of mixed-martial-arts (MMA) and professional boxing bouts. Earlier today, NEF announced the addition of an amateur heavyweight bout to the MMA portion of the “NEF 22” fight card. Nick Gulliver (2-0) will meet Dave Smith (2-1) at a fight weight of 265-pounds.
Nick Gulliver is a product of John Raio’s First Class MMA gym of Brunswick, Maine, as well as the Foundry – a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) academy located in Farmington, Maine. He made his amateur debut last June at “NEF XVIII,” submitting Sonny Spratt (0-2) in the first round. Gulliver followed up that victory with a technical knockout (TKO) win over Jason Field (0-2) this past November a mere 12-seconds into the first round. He hopes another win on April 23rd will put him in line for a shot at the NEF MMA Amateur Heavyweight Title currently held by Billy Leahy (3-1).
“I’m looking forward to fighting again for NEF on April 23rd, and I’m thankful for the opportunity that Matt Peterson and Nick Disalvo give me to fight for their amazing organization,” said Gulliver. “I’ll be fighting who I think is now the number one heavyweight fighter fighting for NEF, Dave Smith. This kid is a great fighter and good athlete. I’m looking forward to a great fight. I fight for two amazing schools and organizations, the Foundry and First Class MMA. This fight will be the first time I won’t be fighting in front of my father who is sick. It’s a lot for him to go to these events being so sick and on oxygen all the time. But my father stated he would make it to one last fight if I get a title shot. I think fighting Dave Smith and winning would put me in a good spot to fight for a title. I’m looking to get that fight in front of my father who pushes me to be the man I am today. So, for three rounds on April 23rd, I’ll be pushing harder than I have in the past to get that opportunity. I’m always looking to impress the crowd. I think fighting someone like Smith will keep the crowd on their feet.”
Dave Smith is a member of Berserkers MMA based out of Rumford, Maine. Smith has an extensive wrestling background, having gone 147-17 while competing for Mountain Valley High School (MVHS) and winning two state titles in the process. He also wrestled for Plymouth State University (PSU) in New Hampshire. Like Gulliver, Smith finished his first two opponents in the opening round. He is looking to bounce back from a loss to Brendan Battles (2-0) at “NEF 21” last month.
“I’m glad to be on another NEF card,” exclaimed Smith. “I am also very excited to be fighting Nick Gully. Nick has had a couple impressive wins and I think this will be a good fight! So get ready because it’s going to be a hell of a show.”
New England Fights’ next event, “NEF 22: ALL ROADS LEAD HERE,” takes place Saturday, April 23, 2016 at the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine. Tickets for “NEF 22” start at just $25 and are on sale now at www.TheColisee.com or by calling the Colisée box office at 207.783.2009 x 525. For more information on the event 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.
FIGHTERS HOPE TO SETTLE THEIR DIFFERENCES IN THE CAGE AT NEF 22
Lewiston, Maine (March 4, 2016) – New England Fights (NEF), America’s number-one regional fight promotion, will hold its next event, “NEF 22: ALL ROADS LEAD HERE” on Saturday, April 23, 2016 at the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine. The fight card will feature a mix of mixed-martial-arts (MMA) and professional boxing bouts. Earlier today, NEF announced the addition of a professional lightweight contest to the MMA portion of the “NEF 22” fight card. Matt “Ken Doll” Denning (2-1) will meet Josh “Hook On” Harvey (0-0) at a fight weight of 150-pounds.
Lewiston’s Matt Denning is coming off the first loss of his professional career this past November against Jon Lemke (5-4). Prior to that defeat, Denning was riding a four-fight win streak, all four of those wins coming by way of submission. He is a member of Central Maine Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (CMBJJ). Denning acknowledges personal issues have existed in the past between he and Harvey, culminating in a cageside confrontation between the two athletes at the close of “NEF XV” in the fall of 2014.
“I’m honored to have been asked specifically for this fight,” said Denning. “Josh is the 155 ammy champ and is an amazing fighter. I’m excited to watch him continue his career as a pro and move up to the top of the professional rankings. We had some personal issues between the two of us because of a poor decision I made, and I hope with us fighting it will clear the air and I’ll be able to cross train with him and Young’s MMA. We gotta give the fans what they want and this is what they wanted. I look forward to seeing everyone April 23rd.”
The bout will indeed be the professional debut for Harvey after an amateur career in which he went 5-1. He is the reigning NEF MMA Amateur Lightweight Champion, a title which he will now vacate as a professional. Harvey capped off his amateur stint with a highlight reel knockout over Ryan Dibartolomeo (4-4), a victory that solidified his position as the northeast region’s top-ranked amateur lightweight. Harvey is a member of Young’s MMA in Bangor, Maine. He recently signed a long-term NEF developmental deal.
“I’m feeling blessed to be a signed professional cage fighter,” said Harvey. “I’m one step closer to my goal and April 23rd I’ll take another. I’ve wanted a chance to fight ‘Ken Doll’ ever since I met him – he is just one of those guys. I’m thankful for the opportunity.”
“One thing is very clear in this matchup – Josh and Matt don’t like each other,” stated NEF matchmaker and co-owner Matt Peterson. “There is some deep, pent-up frustration that has been percolating between these two for a long time – and on April 23rd, the cork comes out. It’s going to be spectacular.”
New England Fights’ next event, “NEF 22: ALL ROADS LEAD HERE,” takes place Saturday, April 23, 2016 at the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine. Tickets for “NEF 22” start at just $25 and are on sale now at www.TheColisee.com or by calling the Colisée box office at 207.783.2009 x 525. For more information on the event 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.
CAPE COD GETS ITS FIRST MMA CAGEFIGHTING EVENT; BATTLES & LAMONTE TO MAKE PRO DEBUTS
Hyannis, Massachusetts (March 4, 2016) – New England Fights (NEF), America’s number-one regional fight promotion, announced today that it will bring Cape Cod its first-ever mixed-martial-arts (MMA) event this spring. The event, entitled “NEF 23: NEF CAGES THE CAPE,” will take place on May 14, 2016 at the Hyannis Youth & Community Center (HYCC) in Hyannis, Massachusetts. Both professional and amateur MMA bouts will be presented that evening.
To date, NEF has held twenty-two events, a mix of MMA and boxing shows, in the state of Maine. The promotion was formed in 2012 by business partners Nick DiSalvo and Matt Peterson. NEF has a reputation of putting on action-packed events in venues filled with thousands of rabid fight fans. The promotion has a large, dedicated fan base unmatched by any of its competitors on the regional level. Over the years, NEF’s cage has played host to UFC veterans such as Marcus Davis (22-11) and two-time UFC World Heavyweight Champion Tim Sylvia (31-10), among others. NEF co-promoted a nationally-televised event with Bellator in the spring of 2013. Its fight highlights have been featured prominently on AXS TV, TUFF TV and the “World’s Greatest Knockouts” on Spike TV.
“The NEF brand is expanding,” noted DiSalvo. “Cape Cod is hungry for an MMA event. I’m surprised it’s taken this long to happen with so many great teams located in the area. NEF is honored to be the first to present an MMA show on the Cape.”
One MMA team whose fighters will be featured prominently on the May 14 card will be Hyannis-based Team Juniko.
“This show will be the first MMA show on Cape Cod in Team Juniko’s backyard,” remarked Team Juniko coach Mike Gresh. “Congrats NEF!”
Gresh is a longtime, respected leader in the New England MMA community. Two of his team’s members have been confirmed as making their professional debuts on May 14 – Erin “Fun Size” Lamonte and Brendan “Lockdown” Battles.
Scituate’s Erin Lamonte put together a perfect 6-0 record as an amateur competitor. She is coming off back-to-back submission victories in Lewiston, Maine.
“I cannot wait for NEF to come to the Cape,” exclaimed Lamonte. “All but one of my fights have been out of state, so I am so excited to fight in front of all my family and friends in my own backyard! Don’t miss it. May 14th ‘Fun Size’ goes pro and makes her presence known in the women’s straweight division!”
Brendan Battles is a native of nearby Eastham, Massachusetts where he was a three-time All-American wrestler for Nauset Regional High School. Battles won two state championships and three New England regional championships while amassing a total of 161 wins over the course of his high school wrestling career. Later, Battles played defensive end and tackle for the University of Connecticut.
“It’s an honor to fight down the street from my hometown and the gym where I train,” said Battles. “It gives me the chills to fight my very first professional fight on my home turf, with my family, friends, and all who supports me to see the work I’ve put in and the fighter I have evolved into at this point of my career.”
“NEF 23: NEF CAGES THE CAPE,” takes place Saturday, May 14, 2016 at the Hyannis Youth & Community Center in Hyannis, Massachusetts. Tickets for “NEF 23” are $40 for general admission and $60 for cageside. They are on sale now at www.NewEnglandFights.com/Tickets/ .
For more information on the event 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 New England’s fighters and fans alike. NEF’s executive team has extensive experience in combat sports management, events production, media relations, marketing, legal and advertising.
Meet Tomas Yu WMMAA Vice President
MONTE CARLO, Monaco (February 25, 2016)- World MMA Association (WMMAA) vice president Tomas Yu, of Albuquerque (NM), who is also president of the WMMAA Pan-American division, took time from his busy schedule to address questions about his MMA background and experience, the sport of MMA and WWMMA in particular.Can you tell us about you and your experience in Martial Arts?
TY: “I’m from the generation that grew up watching 3 Ninjas,Ninja Turtles… I wanted to be a Ninja! I grew up practicing Tae Kwon Do in Mexico, all the way to my black belt. At age 18, I ventured to practice Aikido and Judo in El Paso, Texas. I loved learning and I always wanted to be a rounded student, which is why I always looked for different arts to offset the weaknesses of the other.”
TY: “I’m from the generation that grew up watching 3 Ninjas,Ninja Turtles… I wanted to be a Ninja! I grew up practicing Tae Kwon Do in Mexico, all the way to my black belt. At age 18, I ventured to practice Aikido and Judo in El Paso, Texas. I loved learning and I always wanted to be a rounded student, which is why I always looked for different arts to offset the weaknesses of the other.”
How did you first enter the world of MMA?
TY: “I was really looking for a place I could introduce my daughter to Martial Arts. I was looking for a more rounded self-defense Martial Art but not a fight club. I was introduced to the sport of MMA by a good friend and pioneer of the sport, Chris Luttrell. I was immediately bonded to the sport, since that is what at one point all Martial Artists are looking for.”
TY: “I was really looking for a place I could introduce my daughter to Martial Arts. I was looking for a more rounded self-defense Martial Art but not a fight club. I was introduced to the sport of MMA by a good friend and pioneer of the sport, Chris Luttrell. I was immediately bonded to the sport, since that is what at one point all Martial Artists are looking for.”
When did you first hear of MMA and what was your first impression? Did
you expect this sport to grow as much as it is now?
TY: “I have been privileged to see the evolution of MMA since 1993 as a teenager, all the way to now, becoming the first Pan-American Division President in the most important Regulation Organization for MMA in the world.”
you expect this sport to grow as much as it is now?
TY: “I have been privileged to see the evolution of MMA since 1993 as a teenager, all the way to now, becoming the first Pan-American Division President in the most important Regulation Organization for MMA in the world.”
What is your function and main activities within WMMAA?
TY “My biggest function is to introduce simple business principles to the sport of MMA and keeping Martial Art in MMA. What I mean by that is, the common denominator for every individual Marital Art are (Respect, Loyalty, Honor) and the mixture of martial arts should not represent what people perceive MMA is today. It should be a mixture of Respect, Loyalty and Honor. It should be a much more admired sport.”
TY “My biggest function is to introduce simple business principles to the sport of MMA and keeping Martial Art in MMA. What I mean by that is, the common denominator for every individual Marital Art are (Respect, Loyalty, Honor) and the mixture of martial arts should not represent what people perceive MMA is today. It should be a mixture of Respect, Loyalty and Honor. It should be a much more admired sport.”
How would you assess WMMAA’s progress during its three year existence?
TY: “Well, as an entrepreneur, I’m never satisfied, I always see ways to do things better but the reality is that, in the 25+ years MMA has been evolving and becoming not just a mixture of Martial Arts but also a true blue sport. Many people have tried to add value to the sport with no real success until this past two years with the WMMAA.”
TY: “Well, as an entrepreneur, I’m never satisfied, I always see ways to do things better but the reality is that, in the 25+ years MMA has been evolving and becoming not just a mixture of Martial Arts but also a true blue sport. Many people have tried to add value to the sport with no real success until this past two years with the WMMAA.”
What are the main goals of WMMAA and what are the main obstacles for the association?
TY: “This question has a long and complicated answer! The number one obstacle is pride, pride to admit that past performance or formulas to add value didn’t and won’t work. Pride to admit that working together will pave a new path. The number two obstacle, is UNDERSTANDING, understanding the big picture, like Micro and Macro economics really being two different worlds.
TY: “This question has a long and complicated answer! The number one obstacle is pride, pride to admit that past performance or formulas to add value didn’t and won’t work. Pride to admit that working together will pave a new path. The number two obstacle, is UNDERSTANDING, understanding the big picture, like Micro and Macro economics really being two different worlds.
“The sport or art of MMA is much more than what we see on television. There is a much deeper impact to society than pay per view.”
How do you assess the third World Championship that took place in
Prague?
Prague?
TY: “Moments like these are the ones that 3 years ago we would dream about. Well, last year that dream came true… over 40 countries participated in the beautiful city of Prague. I can’t explain the clash of emotions when you see and hear country after country being announced as they walk into the arena with their head held high as they carry their national flag.
We as an organization created Continental Presidents to be able to perform better follow through and also be more sensitive negotiating in different cultural environments. Our Europe and Czech Organizing Committee did a wonderful job.
Were there any countries that stood out or surprised you?
TY: “The fact they were there, that’s what really stands out! Some countries were participating for the first time. The level of mental competition for some countries was amazing. I can’t wait for the 2016 World Championships.”
TY: “The fact they were there, that’s what really stands out! Some countries were participating for the first time. The level of mental competition for some countries was amazing. I can’t wait for the 2016 World Championships.”
What are the2016 mid-term goals for WMMAA PanAm?
TY: “The number one focus for PANAM is the roll-out of our new initiative on ‘Global MMA Officials and Licensing’ to standardize the sport worldwide, but also standardize the officials looking out for the sport.”
TY: “The number one focus for PANAM is the roll-out of our new initiative on ‘Global MMA Officials and Licensing’ to standardize the sport worldwide, but also standardize the officials looking out for the sport.”
Can you describe what 2015 was like for WMMAA?
TY: “2015 was a year of foundations, recruiting, and preparing for the volumes of growth coming our way this year.”
TY: “2015 was a year of foundations, recruiting, and preparing for the volumes of growth coming our way this year.”
What words of wisdom would you like to share with the members of WMMAA family?
TY: “I have always said that in every sport there is a business behind it, believing: ‘Till this far, MMA is like Capital… it goes where it is welcomed and it stays where it’s treated well'”
TY: “I have always said that in every sport there is a business behind it, believing: ‘Till this far, MMA is like Capital… it goes where it is welcomed and it stays where it’s treated well'”
WMMAA keeps expanding. However there are still multiple countries that
are not yet WMMAA members. Why should any local Federation apply
for WMMAA membership?
are not yet WMMAA members. Why should any local Federation apply
for WMMAA membership?
TY: “We are the only organization of its kind. They would be able to get courses, national and international licenses but, most importantly, they can be part of history by allowing athletes in their respective countries to participate in our version of the Olympics of MMA.”
What would you tell them?
TY: “You are not alone. Here is where being part of a team with qualified individuals opening door. Power really does come in numbers.”
People keep asking: why should we use SportID and SportData. Can you
repeat why it is so essential?
TY: “I’ll keep it short. The number one reason – reason enough – is to avoid private owned companies from having biased control on who and how they upload information.”
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SECOND PRO BOXING BOUT ANNOUNCED FOR NEF 22
Lewiston, Maine (February 25, 2016) – New England Fights (NEF), America’s number-one regional fight promotion, will hold its next event, “NEF 22: ALL ROADS LEAD HERE” on Saturday, April 23, 2016at the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine. The fight card will feature a mix of mixed-martial-arts (MMA) and professional boxing bouts. Earlier today, NEF announced the addition of a light-heavyweight contest to the boxing portion of the “NEF 22” fight card. Crowsneck Boutin (0-0-1) is scheduled to face Brandon Montella (3-0, 2 KOs) in a four-round bout.
Crowsneck Boutin, a regular on NEF MMA cards since 2012, made his professional boxing debut earlier this month on the “NEF 21” event in Lewiston. He fought Joel Bishop (0-0-2) to a draw in an exciting slugfest that had the Colisée crowd on the edge of its collective seat. Boutin, considered the underdog in that bout, expertly worked his jab to control the first two rounds of the fight. Like the Bishop match, Boutin is preparing for another war with Montella on April 23.
“Brandon is a very tough opponent,” said Boutin. “He’s going to present me with many obstacles. My training is grueling and I’ll be prepared for a war.”
Brandon Montella is a 1998 graduate of Carrabec High School in North Anson, Maine. Following graduation, Montella joined the United States Marine Corps (USMC) and served until 2003 with an honorable discharge. Montella worked in construction in Virginia until 2011 when he moved with his wife to the Boston, Massachusetts area. He owns and operates The Way, LLC boxing gym in Woburn, Massachusetts.
“Coming back home from to Maine after all these years to fight in a place of such history is an amazing feeling,” said Montella. “It will bring my friends and family from the past and the present together under one roof for an awesome event.”
Montella had a very successful amateur boxing career with a final record of 14-7. In 2011, he won the prestigious Rocky Marciano Tournament. Montella went on to win the New England Golden Gloves the following year. He turned pro in 2015 and has won his first three bouts with two finishes.
“As far as my opponent Crowsneck Boutin, I have seen his fights and read his back story,” Montella continued. “What I see is a man like myself – someone who is determined to change his life and take matters into his own hands instead of sitting around like too many men do today. When two men as determined as we are get in the ring in front of a large crowd, magic happens. We grow larger than life and the fans get one hell of a treat.”
New England Fights’ next event, “NEF 22: ALL ROADS LEAD HERE,” takes place Saturday, April 23, 2016 at the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine. Tickets for “NEF 22” start at just $25 and are on sale now at www.TheColisee.com or by calling the Colisée box office at 207.783.2009 x 525. For more information on the event 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.
BOXING HEADLINER ANNOUNCED FOR NEF 22
Lewiston, Maine (February 22, 2016) – New England Fights (NEF), America’s number-one regional fight promotion, will hold its next event, “NEF 22: ALL ROADS LEAD HERE” on Saturday, April 22, 2016at the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine. The fight card will feature a mix of mixed-martial-arts (MMA) and professional boxing bouts. Earlier today, NEF announced the main event of the boxing portion of the “NEF 22” fight card. Northeast Junior Welterweight Champion Brandon “The Cannon” Berry (11-1, 7 KOs) will take on James Lester (10-9, 4 KOs) in a non-title, six-round bout at 140-pounds.
Berry, the pride of small-town West Forks, Maine, has shined since returning from a shoulder injury last year. He has won his last three in a row, including a technical knockout (TKO) stoppage of Tollison Lewis (2-1, 1 KO) earlier this month in Lewiston. The upcoming fight with Lester will see Berry return to his native 140-pound junior welterweight division for the first time since his injury. All three of his recent wins have come in the heavier welterweight and super welterweight divisions.
“April 23rd will be a big turning point in my boxing career,” said Berry when reached for comment. “This will be my fourth time headlining NEF’s boxing portion of the event, and I want to thank Nick (DiSalvo, NEF promoter), Matt (Peterson, NEF matchmaker) and Pete (Czymbor, NEF Director of Boxing Operations) for the opportunity. I asked for a challenge and to make it back down to my regular fight weight of 140-pounds, and that’s what I’m getting with Detroit’s James Lester. I think the crowd will be very happy and impressed with the talent level James brings. This is a big test for me and I hope that with nine weeks to prepare it’s a test that I can pass. He brings so much to the table that can give me problems in the ring, so me showing up anything less than 100% will be unacceptable.
“I know that Tommy (Duquette), Ed (LaVache), Luke (Yetten) and the rest of Boston Boxing will push me to the limit and bring me into the ring prepared. James Lester has been around and fought some very good fighters. He had an amazing amateur career, and has spent years training at one of the most legendary boxing facility’s in the world, the Kronk Gym. Who doesn’t want to see this fight? See you all April 23rd, and as always thank you all so much for the amazing support. The tickets sales are unreal.”
As Berry noted, James Lester is a product of the world-famous Kronk Gym of Detroit, Michigan. It was there he honed his craft alongside world champions like Thomas “Hitman” Hearns (61-5-1, 48 KOs), Oscar De La Hoya (39-6, 30 KOs), Lennox Lewis (41-2-1, 32 KOs) and Wladimir Klitschko (64-4, 53 KOs), to name a few, under legendary trainer Emanuel Steward. As an amateur, Lester was ranked nationally at number-two. He competed against the likes of future Olympian Andre Dirrell (24-2, 16 KOs) and future WBC Super Middleweight Champion Anthony Dirrell (28-1-1, 22 KOs) while in the amateur ranks. The bout with Berry will mark the second time Lester has ventured to New England in his professional career. He competed on a card in Worcester, Massachusetts in 2011. Lester looks forward to making his return to the region.
“Fighting Brandon will be exciting, and I’m ready for anything he has to bring,” said Lester. “Fighting in New England was awesome a few years ago against Ryan Kielczewski (24-1, 7 KOs). I met some real good people there and can’t wait to come put on a show for them again.”
New England Fights’ next event, “NEF 22: ALL ROADS LEAD HERE,” takes place Saturday, April 23, 2016 at the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine. Tickets for “NEF 22” start at just $25 and are on sale now at www.TheColisee.com or by calling the Colisée box office at 207.783.2009 x 525. For more information on the event 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.
WMMAA: The future of MMA
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 Mexican Consulate in Albuquerque, Efren Leyba, and
WMMAA Pan-American president Tomas Yu (center)
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (February 15, 2016) – The second annual World MMA Association (WMMAA) Pan-American Congress, recently held at The Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce in Albuquerque, New Mexico, was a major success by all standards.
“The Pan-American Movement”, as it was named, brought together sports, tourism, and education for a common goal with more than 12 participating countries.
The Congress provided a rare opportunity for the entire WMMAA Pan-American family to collaborate with special partnerships like The Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce and The Mexico Consulate in Albuquerque, University of New Mexico Global Education Department. PANAM Members, representatives of National Federations, Commissions, Association and the Organizing Committee of the WMMAA Pan-American Championship (OCPC), as well as athletes, coaches, media, sponsors and other stakeholders to meet and discuss issues of importance to the entire MMA movement.
In his closing speech to the Congress, Pan-American Division President Tomas Yu paid tribute to the excellent collaboration between Pan-American members.
“If you asked me to sprawl a couple of times, I would most definitely need some nitro coffee from Villa Myriam before I run out of breath, followed by the guaranteed use of Sore No More,” Yu said. “But when it comes to fighting for our youth, for our MMA global goals – for cleaner competition, for a healthier, more peaceful and more flourishing SPORT – I will sprawl-jab-cross-kick like a champion. I will sprint the steepest trail in the Sandia Mountains. I will never stop until we raise our hands by victory. I am counting and exhorting all involved in the MMA industry to join us. We must go for the KO.”
 Over the course of the three-day Congress and 13-day PANAM Camp, there were special guest such as Legacy Champion Damacio Page, former UFC champion Jon “Bones” Jones and Carlos Condit. Participants heard from many respected speakers such as Health Committee Director Curt Chavez from eVOLV Strong, Hector Molina, Director of PANAM Regulatory Committee and Director of PANAM Medical Committee, Dr. Justo Pavia. The congress had interesting discussions on the following themes: athletes, 2016 Expo MMA, structure of the “WMMAA Pan-American Movement”, global officials’ license and database, new era of Digital Sports Marketing Revolution, and the 2016 Pan-American Championships.
Each day was divided in two general sessions with a half-day devoted to Rules and Regulations discussions for PANAM. The plenary sessions were followed by three simultaneous breakout sessions on respective sub-themes. All sessions were live-cast over the internet to allow the general public to hear discussions as it happened.
Two sessions began with presentations from a panel of speakers. The moderators of each panel were then responsible for the ensuing discussion period, which gave participants an opportunity to voice their opinions on issues. The main points from each session were carefully recorded by“ENLACE” – the new exclusive WMMAA correspondent program – to inform the Editorial Committee of the discussions at the end of each day. The final document reflected the main ideas to come out of the proceedings in Albuquerque, as well as information collected through the virtual WMMAA Pan-American Congress, allowing the WMMAA Pan-American family and public to submit written contributions.
 The mission of the 2016 WMMAA Pan-American Congress was to bring together sports, tourism and education for a united front and review the status of the WMMAA PANAM Movement in today’s evolving global society. Information was gathered and opinions sought regarding its future, in addition to providing structure, guidance, proposals and recommendations to all constituents and other stakeholders of the WMMAA PANAM Movement for its structured showcase and harmonious development within the global youth community.
The 2016 WMMAA Pan-American Congress was a great success and has left the WMMAA Pan-American Movement with a blueprint for the future. It is now time, once again, for the PANAM family to translate words into action: We are the Future of MMA!
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