Category Archives: New England Fights

amateur boxing, Amateur MMA, mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

MILITARY VETERANS TO FEATURE PROMINENTLY ON NEF 24 PRO MMA CARD

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Lewiston, Maine (May 30, 2016) – New England Fights (NEF) presents “NEF 24: PROMISED LAND” at the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston on June 18, 2016.   On that night, two military veterans will be featured in professional mixed-martial-arts (MMA) bouts.  Mike “The Mustache” Hansen (4-4) will compete in a heavyweight bout while CJ Ewer (1-0) will see action in the welterweight division.

 

Mike Hansen won two state wrestling championships competing for Mountain Valley High School (MVHS) in Rumford, Maine.  Shortly after graduation, Hansen began training in MMA and made his debut in the sport in 2005.  He would, however, put his MMA career on the backburner for the next decade to enlist and serve his country as a combat engineer in the United States Army.  After retiring from the Army, Hansen returned to Maine and opened Berserkers MMA in Rumford, where he trains other MVHS alum to compete in the NEF cage.  OnJune 18, Hansen will face Robert Laroski (1-1).

 

“I hope he’s been training, ’cause I’ve been active starting this year,” said Hansen.  “I’m looking for a win coming off my last fight.  I will find his weaknesses and exploit them.  I’m looking for the finish, and it won’t take long.  Just over 51 years ago, (Muhammad) Ali got the first round, first minute stoppage over (Sonny) Liston right at the Colisee.  My fight will end in similar fashion, under the same roof.”

 

CJ Ewer is a proud member of the United States Air Force security forces.  When he is not overseas serving his country, Ewer can be found back home in the Bangor, Maine area training at Young’s MMA.  After a successful amateur career, he submitted Zenon Herrera in his pro debut earlier this year.  On June 18, Ewer will take on “The Fresh Prince” Phil Rowe (1-2) from Florida.

 

NEF returns to the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine on June 18, 2016 with “NEF 24: PROMISED LAND.”  Tickets for “NEF 24” start at just $25 and are on sale now at www.TheColisee.com or by calling the Colisée box office at207.783.2009 x 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.

amateur boxing, Amateur MMA, mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

MORE THAN JUST GOLD IS AT STAKE IN TITLE REMATCH

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Lewiston, Maine (May 27, 2016) – One of the past year’s most intense rivalries is about to be reignited.  On June 18, 2016, when New England Fights (NEF) presents “NEF 24: PROMISED LAND” at the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, former amateur mixed-martial-arts (MMA) flyweight champion Dustin Veinott (4-4) will have his chance to recapture the strap from Ryan Burgess (2-0).  Burgess took the title from Veinott last fall at “NEF XX” in a very close split decision.  The outcome on the judges’ scorecards has been a topic of heavy debate amongst NEF fans ever since.

 

“I have wanted this rematch since right after he took the title,” said Veinott.  “I know I wasn’t at 100% when I fought him last time.  Best believe I will have no distractions this time around.  I also feel he disrespected the whole weight division.  I will teach him to respect this division.  I am here to prove that us 125ers might be small, but we are all tough guys that know how to fight!”

 

“Last time me and Dustin met in the cage, we went to war,” recalled Burgess.   “Expect nothing less than that in our rematch. Many people considered it a close split decision fight, and although I wasn’t able to utilize my ground striking as I had hoped, I don’t see how you can call it a close match when I was able to impose my will on him throughout the entire three rounds. I believe that he does deserve this rematch, though, as he made the trip to Hyannis, Mass for the last event and was unfortunately not able to compete due to his opponent not making weight. Opponents in my weight class are hard to come by in this region and I believe of all the guys who are consistent with their weight cuts, Dustin deserves another shot.”

 

The Hyannis, Massachusetts bout that Burgess refers to was to take place earlier this month between Veinott and Ryan “Razzle Dazzle” Kane (4-3).  The match was cancelled at weigh-ins when Kane did not make the agreed-to catchweight.

 

“I was very frustrated about Razzle Dazzle not making weight,” stated Veinott.  “Especially after I gave him the extra four pounds that he asked for.  However, he disrespected me by not showing up on weight – that is why I didn’t take the fight.”

 

Burgess, a member of Berserkers MMA in Rumford, Maine, is clear that he plans to finish the rematch with Veinott and not leave any room for controversy with another decision.  He is not out to simply retain his title, but to also prove a point – that he is the undisputed top amateur flyweight in Maine.  And to do that, Burgess knows he has to put Veinott away definitively.

 

“All I have to say to Dustin is ‘congrats, you got your rematch that you’ve been asking for.’ I hope you don’t expect the same fighter you got last time – your fans may be disappointed at the end of the night.  Come June 18th, I will solidify myself as the top flyweight for NEF, as well as make a statement of the improvements I have been making outside of the cage.  There will be no ‘fan controversy’ after I finish this fight in the first or second round.”

 

Veinott contends that he will be more focused this time around.  A member of Central Maine Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Veinott is confident in his ability to submit Burgess should Burgess, a three-time state wrestling champion out of Mountain Valley High School with 150 wins to his credit, take the fight to the mat.

 

“The difference that I will make going into this fight is to have no distractions,” said Veinott.  “I will make sure I am the most mentally prepared I have ever been.  I feel I already have all the tools to beat him.  I caught him in several submissions our last fight, and I know for a fact he doesn’t want to stand with me.  He will be going for another wrestling match and I am fully prepared for that.”

 

And while the coveted NEF MMA Amateur Flyweight Title may be on the line on June 18, both Veinott and Burgess are looking to finish their rivalry once and for all.

 

“Find your seats early folks ’cause this one will be a quick thriller,” said Burgess in closing.  “Our last bout I had a game plan to grind out a decision victory.  A finish will go in the books after this fight.”

 

“The one thing Ryan should know is not to think this fight will be the same as the first one,” Veinott stated emphatically.  “I will leave everything in the cage.  You will see a different fighter, and I will come out victorious.  It is time to release the beast!”

 

NEF returns to the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine on June 18, 2016 with “NEF 24: PROMISED LAND.”  Tickets for “NEF 24” 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 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.

Amateur MMA, boxing, mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

NO MORE DRAWS; THERE MUST BE A WINNER IN NORTHEAST TITLE FIGHT

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Lewiston, Maine (May 25, 2016) – New England Fights (NEF) returns to the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine onJune 18, 2016 with “NEF 24: PROMISED LAND.”  The fight promotion will put on another full night of mixed-martial-arts (MMA) cagefights and pro boxing bouts.  Earlier today, NEF executives announced the headline fight for the boxing portion of the fight card.  West Forks, Maine’s own Brandon “The Cannon” Berry (11-1-1) will put the Northeast Junior Welterweight Title on the line in a rematch against Detroit, Michigan’s James “The Motor City Bad Boy” Lester (10-9-1).

 

Berry and Lester met earlier this spring at “NEF 22” in Lewiston.  The six-round bout was ruled a majority draw on the judges’ scorecards.  This time around, however, NEF executives had a trick up their sleeves – add a seventh round to all but guarantee a winner.

 

Berry won the Northeast Junior Welterweight Title in October 2014 in Lewiston against West Virginia Toughman Champion Eric Palmer (4-3-3).  He has been the kingpin of the 140-pound division in the Northeast ever since.  The draw against Lester halted a three-fight win streak Berry had been on since returning from a shoulder injury last year.

 

“I think the main difference in a rematch between me and James will be more action,” Berry predicted.  “We both know what we bring to the table, we both enjoy pleasing the crowd, and we both want to win.  I think those are some key ingredients to a great matchup.  I have a lot of respect for James , his boxing ability, and what he brings to the table.  I was impressed with his speed, his all around toughness, and his ring generalship.  I’m excited to headline another card in Lewiston, and can’t wait for the crowd to enjoy my fight, along with a few other boxing matches that include some talented Maine boxers.  I hope that we can draw a big crowd and have a quality night of fights.  See you all on the 18th!”

 

“I’m most definitely looking forward to fighting in Maine again,” said Lester, a former top-ranked national amateur boxer.  “The fans there are awesome. I even gained a few fans from my last fight who’s been messaging me on a regular like a young guy by the name of Hunter Moore who messages me every week making sure I’m training hard for the rematch.”

 

Lester is a product of the world-famous Kronk Gym in Detroit where 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), among others, have prepared for world title bouts under legendary trainer, the late Emanuel Steward.  “The only thing that will be different this time is I will be in better condition. That was my only downfall last time. This time I’ll be able to box and stay on my toes for the tough pressure that Brandon brings.”

 

NEF returns to the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine on June 18, 2016 with “NEF 24: PROMISED LAND.”  Tickets for “NEF 24” start at just $25 and are on sale now at www.TheColisee.com or by calling the Colisée box office at207.783.2009 x 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.

amateur boxing, Amateur MMA, boxing, mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

LIGHTWEIGHT FIGHT HAS ALL THE MAKINGS OF A WRESTLING CLASSIC

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Lewiston, Maine (May 23, 2016) – New England Fights (NEF) returns to the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine on June 18, 2016 with “NEF 24: PROMISED LAND.”  The fight promotion will put on another full night of mixed-martial-arts (MMA) cage fights and pro boxing bouts.  Earlier today, NEF executives announced the addition of an amateur lightweight matchup to the MMA portion of the card.  After a year’s absence, “Dangerous” Dom “Hands of Stone” Cofone (6-5) will return to the NEF MMA cage to face Steve Bang, Jr. (3-5) at a fight weight of 155-pounds.

 

Dom Cofone was a Class A state wrestling champion out of Westbrook High School in Westbrook, Maine.  He entered the MMA ranks in February of 2013.  Since that time, he has been featured on nine NEF cards.  Cofone’s last appearance in the promotion was in June 2015 at “NEF 18.”  That night, Cofone submitted Jason Lachance (2-3) in the second round.  He is currently a member of the Academy of MMA in Portland, Maine, training under MMA pioneers Jay Jack and Amanda Buckner.

 

“I’m so thankful for the opportunity to step into the NEF cage once again,” said Cofone.  “With my coaches and teammates from the Academy behind me, I know I’ll be able to have a great performance.  June 18th is going to be an awesome night for the NEF fans and an even better night for the Westbrook wrestling alumni!”

 

Steve Bang is a member of the famous Bang fighting family of Auburn, Maine.  On June 18, he will join his father and brothers in the NEF MMA cage.   Bang wrestled as an independent during his years at Edward Little High School in Auburn, Maine.  He is currently a member of Central Maine Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (CMBJJ).  Bang will look to rebound from a second-round submission loss to Fabian Miranda (2-0) last week at “NEF 23” in Hyannis, Massachusetts.

 

“I’m super pumped to fight with all of my family,” said Bang.  “It’s always a great experience. This past year has been a rough year for me in many different ways and I feel like I am just – as of a month or two ago – coming out of it. I feel great in all aspects; mentally, spiritually, and physically.  I am fired up and ready to do battle with so much of my family doing what Bangs’ do just fires me up more.  I’m excited to fight alongside Shawn again who I haven’t seen in two years and have only spoken to three times.  I’m excited to fight Dom. I think it will be a great match up. I don’t get to fight many wrestlers.  And I want to thank him for the opportunity to allow me to do what I love to do.”

 

NEF returns to the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine on June 18, 2016 with “NEF 24: PROMISED LAND.”  Tickets for “NEF 24” 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 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.

Amateur MMA, mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

FAN-FAVORITE DREAM MATCH MORE THAN JUST FANTASY

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Lewiston, Maine (May 19, 2016) – Since long before the dawn of the internet, sports fans have debated the outcome of fantasy meetings between beloved teams and athletes.  What would happen if Mike Tyson and Muhammad Ali met in their respective prime?  Could the ’96 Bulls beat the ’86 Lakers?  How would the bats of the ’27 Yankees fare against the starting rotation of the ’98 Braves?  In mixed-martial-arts (MMA), presumably because the sport is so young, fantasy matchups are usually separated by weight classes as opposed to time.

 

Such is the case with the professional middleweight bout recently signed by New England Fights (NEF) for the fight promotion’s June 18 event, “NEF 24: PROMISED LAND,” in Lewiston.  Jesse “The Viking” Erickson (6-5) will move up two weight classes to face Crowsneck Boutin (2-2) at 185-pounds.  It is a fight that fans of both popular athletes never imagined they would see, and now it is happening.

 

Jesse Erickson was unsuccessful in his attempt to capture the vacant NEF MMA Pro Lightweight Title last month at “NEF22.”  The loss to Devin Powell (6-1) put a halt to Erickson’s three-fight win streak.  The upcoming bout with Boutin offers not only a chance for redemption, but a chance for Erickson to fight without going through the rigors of a strenuous weight cut.

 

“Crowsneck is someone who always puts on a good show,” said Erickson.  “I’m excited for the challenge  and look forward to the cage door being locked with us inside.  I truly enjoy getting in that cage and this show I’ll be doing it without the misery of cutting weight.  Don’t miss this fight!”

 

After losing two-in-a-row in the MMA cage and coming up with a draw in a pro boxing bout, Crowsneck Boutin scored a big victory last weekend over Ruben Redman (0-1) in Hyannis, Massachusetts.  The win brought Boutin’s record back up to the .500 mark.  On June 18, he will have the opportunity to add another notch to the win column.

 

“The fight fever is aboard me,” said Boutin.  “I’ll be ready to battle.  Erickson is a bad ass, so I love this fight.  From my perspective, it appears that our dark towers is one in the same.”

 

NEF returns to the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine on June 18, 2016 with “NEF 24: PROMISED LAND.”  Tickets for “NEF 24” start at just $25 and are on sale now at www.TheColisee.com or by calling the Colisée box office at207.783.2009 x 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.”

 

amateur mixed martial arts, Amateur MMA, mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

FAMILY AND THE PASSION TO ENTERTAIN DRIVE MMA WELTERWEIGHTS

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Lewiston, Maine (May 18, 2016) – On June 18, 2016 New England Fights (NEF) will return to Lewiston with the fight promotion’s latest fight card, “NEF 24: PROMISED LAND.”  A full slate of professional and amateur mixed-martial-arts (MMA) and professional boxing is planned for the event.  Earlier today, NEF announced the addition of an amateur MMA welterweight bout to the fight card.  Shawn Bang (1-1) will return to take on Mike Bezanson (1-0) at a fight weight of 170-pounds.

 

Shawn Bang is a member of the famous Bang family of fighters from nearby Auburn, Maine.  Along with his father and brothers, Bang is a member of Central Maine Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (CMBJJ).  It has been nearly three years since he last competed in the NEF MMA cage.  Bang has spent the last two years serving as a missionary in accordance with his Mormon faith.  Finally back home and reunited with both his natural family and gym family, Bang is ready for his return to the cage.

 

“After two years of amazing missionary service, I cannot begin to express how excited I am to reunite with my CMBJJ brothers,” said Bang.  “I have only spoken with my own family on Christmas and Mother’s Day, and to have the opportunity to rejoin the ‘Bang Clan’ in battle on June 18th is a fitting reunion.  Since childhood our father has always told us, ‘The first rule of brothers is to stick together.’  Ultimately, it will be me alone in the cage to battle my opponent but it is family, both immediate and extended, that gets me there and beyond.”

 

Lancaster, New Hampshire’s Mike Bezanson debuted in the NEF MMA cage one year ago at “NEF 18.”  Early in the fight, it became evident that his opponent that evening, Jeff Dustin (0-1), was outmatched against the Team Kaze product.  Although Dustin hung in there for almost two full rounds before the referee stopped the fight, Bezanson put on a striking clinic  that left his opponent bloodied.  Bezanson took his time and looked like a cat toying with its prey.  Some in attendance saw his performance as showboating, while others were impressed by his pinpoint striking.   Like it or not, no one could deny that Bezanson provided the entertainment that night.

 

“I received a lot of mixed reviews from my debut fight at NEF,” recalled Bezanson. “Staying true to myself, I am who I am – in and out of the cage.  I love to entertain, keep people on their toes.  Some might say my style of fighting is cocky and unorthodox, but it’s who I am, what I do – and I’m comfortable fighting that way. It is in no way meant to belittle or disrespect my opponent, it’s merely a technique. I have a great deal of respect for all fighters, trainers and fans. One of the reasons I train to fight is the self discipline. I push myself to be the best I can be and I love to compete!  Win or lose, I take away whatever I can from the experience to better myself and grow. You know what they say, ‘There’s no losing, you either win or learn.’ I’m excited to get in the cage in June, and put all my hard work to the test! It’s going to be an entertaining show!”

 

NEF returns to the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine on June 18, 2016 with “NEF 24: PROMISED LAND.”  Tickets for “NEF 24” start at just $25 and are on sale now at www.TheColisee.com or by calling the Colisée box office at207.783.2009 x 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.

Amateur MMA, mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

WOMEN CONTINUE TO EXCEL IN THE NEF MMA CAGE

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Lewiston, Maine (May 17, 2016) – Just days removed from hosting a “Fight of the Year” candidate in Hyannis, Massachusetts between Kylie O’Hearn (1-0) and Angela Young (1-2), New England Fights (NEF) announced that the fight promotion’s cage would host another women’s amateur bout in Lewiston on June 18, 2016.  At “NEF 24: PROMISED LAND,” NEF veteran Alex Walker (0-1) returns to the cage to meet newcomer Nicole Burgess (0-0) in an amateur strawweight bout.

 

Walker arrived in NEF in the spring of 2015 to face Randi Beth Boyington (1-3) in what was the cage debut for both women.  Just like O’Hearn and Young did this past weekend in Hyannis, Walker and Boyington stole the show at “NEF 17.”  They battled tooth-and-nail for three rounds before Boyington took a unanimous decision on the judges’ scorecards.

 

Walker is expected to give another “Fight of the Night” performance at “NEF 24” after an injury forced her out of competition for the past year.  Those who know her, including her coach and teammates at Team Kaze in Lancaster, New Hampshire, say that Walker lives to fight.  Being unable to climb into the cage for so long has made Walker more determined than ever.

 

“I can’t wait to fight in Maine again,” exclaimed Walker when reached for comment.  “I had an injury last year, a month after my fight with Randi Beth. I am recovered and ready to go. It killed me to be on the sidelines. I feel like I earned some respect and some fans in Maine and I don’t want to lose that. I am sure this girl will be ready, but she won’t be ready for me! Between life’s hardships, surgery, losses, and whatever else, I will not quit until I am successful! It would mean a lot to me to get my first W in front of the Maine fans on June 18th!”

 

Standing opposite Walker on June 18 will be Nicole Burgess.  If the name sounds familiar to NEF fans, it should.  She is the sister of NEF MMA fighter Ryan Burgess (2-0).  Ryan is the reigning NEF MMA Amateur Flyweight Champion.  The undefeated streak of the Burgess family in the NEF cage will be on her shoulders at “NEF 24.”

 

Burgess, a native of Mexico, Maine, wrestled and played field hockey for Mountain Valley High School in Rumford, Maine prior to attending Plymouth State University in Plymouth, New Hampshire.  While at Mountain Valley, she placed three times at states in wrestling.  She currently trains with Berserkers MMA.

 

“I’m excited about this opportunity to finally get in the cage,” said Burgess.  “After seeing my brother win the title at 125, it really amped me up to take this on since I’ve been wrestling with him for years. This will be an opportunity to show people what I’m made of. I’m ready for a fight.”

 

“Women’s fights have stolen the show at three different NEF events in the past year,” stated NEF matchmaker and co-owner Matt Peterson.  “This one will be no different.  Women’s fights in MMA are not a novelty.  From the regional level right up to the UFC, female athletes are excelling to heights unseen in other sports.  The sky is the limit for Nicole and Alex.  I can’t wait for this one!”

 

NEF returns to the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine on June 18, 2016 with “NEF 24: PROMISED LAND.”  Tickets for “NEF 24” start at just $25 and are on sale now at www.TheColisee.com or by calling the Colisée box office at207.783.2009 x 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.

Amateur MMA, mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

FORMER STATE CHAMPION RETURNS TO BATTLE THE KEN DOLL

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Lewiston, Maine (May 16, 2016) – New England Fights (NEF) returns to Lewiston, Maine on June 18, 2016 with the fight promotion’s next mixed-martial-arts (MMA) and professional boxing extravaganza, “NEF 24: PROMISED LAND.”  NEF executives have announced the signing of a professional featherweight MMA bout to the card featuring Matt “Ken Doll” Denning (3-2) and Brandon Bushaw (1-2).

 

Denning is coming off a huge submission victory over Derek Shorey (3-7) this past weekend at “NEF 23” in Hyannis, Massachusetts.  The first time the pair met in 2014, it took Denning a mere 2:28 to submit Shorey.  Denning topped that performance in the rematch by finishing Shorey in just 37-seconds.  The win was a rebound for Denning after back-to-back losses in the NEF MMA cage.  Just last month in Lewiston, he was stopped in the first round by Josh Harvey (1-0).  Now, he will look to make it two wins in a row when he takes on Bushaw on June18.
“I’d like to thank New England fights for giving me another opportunity to show my skills and how hard I have been working,” said Denning.  “This is my third fight in eight weeks. After fighting someone as tough as Josh Harvey, I’m prepared to battle with anyone. I’m going to keep the fight in my hands and dominate on the feet, wrestling, or if it hits the ground. Bushaw is an experienced fighter and is going to bring it fast. I’m looking forward to it and extremely confident with staying in the win column.”

 

Brandon Bushaw won state championships in wrestling for Westbrook High School in 1998 and 1999 with a combined record of 73-3 for those two seasons. He went on to wrestle at Michigan State with former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Light Heavyweight Title Holder Rashad Evans (24-5-1) as a teammate.

 

Recent years have seen Bushaw relocate from Maine to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina where he trains at Fitness Edge MMA.  He has made the trip back home to the Pine Tree State to compete for NEF on four separate occasions.  Bushaw’s last appearance on an NEF card was in the fall of 2014 against Elias Leland (2-1).  It was Bushaw’s only loss to date in his home state of Maine.   The upcoming fight with Denning will see Bushaw move up in weight from the 135-pound bantamweight division to the 145-pound featherweight division.

 

“I am beyond excited to return to my home state of Maine and fight under the NEF banner for the fifth time,” exclaimed Bushaw.  “I am making the move up to 145, where I intend to stay for the rest of my career. That is, of course, if my sole loss in Maine will accept a rematch – I would gladly make the cut to fight Eli Leland again at 135! I am making this trip with ‘The Fearless One,’ ‘The Titanium Warrior,’ Amos Collins! I look up to Amos as a mentor, a friend, and one ballsy motherf$%ker! I can’t wait to put my fist on ‘Ken Doll’s’ face, and blow him a kiss when he wakes up!”

 

NEF returns to the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine on June 18, 2016 with “NEF 24: PROMISED LAND.”  Tickets for “NEF 24” start at just $25 and are on sale now at www.TheColisee.com or by calling the Colisée box office at207.783.2009 x 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.

 

Amateur MMA, mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights, wrestling

JUNIKO SWEEPS; BATTLES VICTORIOUS IN PRO DEBUT; WOMEN’S FIGHT STEALS THE SHOW

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Hyannis, Massachusetts (May 15, 2016) – New England Fights (NEF), America’s number-one regional fight promotion, held its most recent event, “NEF 23: CAGE THE CAPE” on Saturday night at the Hyannis Youth & Community Center (HYCC) in Hyannis, Massachusetts.  The HYCC was at capacity for  the first sanctioned mixed-martial-arts (MMA) show ever held on Cape Cod.  The venue opened the upstairs walking track to give standing-room-only fans more elbow room.  The crowd was electric all night for the eight-fight card presented by NEF.

 

Team Juniko, based out of Hyannis and Hanover, Massachusetts, was a perfect 5-0 on the night.  Fabian Miranda (3-0), Thomas Lee Davis, Jr. (2-0), Ed Forlenza (1-0), and Kylie O’Hearn (1-0) all picked up wins for the team on the amateur portion of the card.

 

It was O’Hearn’s bout with Angela Young (1-2) of Young’s MMA in Bangor, Maine that will be remembered for years to come by all in attendance.  The two women battled back and forth for three grueling rounds before O’Hearn was declared the winner by unanimous decision on the judges’ scorecards.  The fight will be a serious contender for “Fight of the Year” in the northeast by the time 2016 comes to an end.

 

Team Juniko member Brendan Battles (1-0) was victorious in the main event of the evening via technical knockout over Mike Hansen (4-4).  The bout was the pro debut for the native of Eastham, Massachusetts and standout wrestler from Nauset Regional High School.   Battles rebounded from an early flurry by Hansen to get the referee stoppage at 1:46 of the first round.

 

The full results of “NEF 23”:

 

PROFESSIONAL FIGHTS

Brendan Battles def. Mike Hansen via TKO, round 1
Matt Denning def. Derek Shorey via heel hook, round 1

Crowsneck Boutin def. Ruben Redman via TKO, round 1

 

AMATEUR FIGHTS
Kylie O’Hearn def. Angela Young via unanimous decision

Ed Forlenza def. Frank Johanson via doctor stoppage, round 3
Victor Irwin def. Tracey Schryba via KO, round 1

Thomas Lee Davis, Jr. def. Anthony Spires via KO, round 1
Fabian Miranda def. Steve Bang via armbar, round 2

 

NEF returns to the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine on June 18, 2016 with “NEF 24: PROMISED LAND.”  Tickets for “NEF 24” start at just $25 and are on sale now at www.TheColisee.com or by calling the Colisée box office at207.783.2009 x 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.

Amateur MMA, mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

NEF 23 WEIGH-INS TO BE HELD AT RED FACE JACK’S THIS FRIDAY

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Hyannis, Massachusetts (May 11, 2016) – New England Fights (NEF), America’s number-one regional fight promotion, will hold its next event, “NEF 23: CAGE THE CAPE” this Saturday, May 14, 2016 at the Hyannis Youth & Community Center in Hyannis, Massachusetts.  The event will be the first sanctioned mixed-martial-arts (MMA) show ever held on Cape Cod.  Earlier today, the promotion announced that it would conduct the event weigh-in this Friday, May 13, 2016, at 5:00 pm EDT at Red Face Jack’s Pub.  Red Face Jack’s Pub is located at 585 Main Street in West Yarmouth, Massachusetts.

 

Weigh-ins are open to the public.  All of the fighters competing on Saturday night will be at the weigh-in, including headliners Brendan “Lock Down” Battles (0-0) and Mike “The Mustache” Hansen.  Fans and press are encouraged to attend.  Fighters and NEF executives will be available for interviews at the request of press.

 

The “NEF 23” fight card (subject to change):

 

PROFESSIONAL FIGHTS

MIDDLEWEIGHT: Crowsneck Boutin vs Ruben Redman
HEAVYWEIGHT: Brendan Battles vs Mike Hansen
LIGHTWEIGHT:  Derek Shorey vs Matt Denning

 

AMATEUR FIGHTS
LIGHT-HEAVYWEIGHT: Tracey Schryba vs Victor Irwin

BANTAMWEIGHT: Kylie O’Hearn vs Angela Young
CATCHWEIGHT: Thomas Lee Davis, Jr. vs Anthony Spires
CATCHWEIGHT: Fabian Miranda vs Steve Bang
CATCHWEIGHT: Ed Forlenza vs Frank Johanson

CATCHWEIGHT: Razzle Dazzle vs Dustin Veinott

 

“NEF 23: CAGE THE CAPE,” takes place this 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 the promotion 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.