Category Archives: MMA

Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Spike TV

ITALY’S OWN PIETRO CAPPELLI LOOKS TO DEFEND HOME TURF IN LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT BOUT WITH PHILIPE LINS DURING MMA PORTION OF ‘BELLATOR 168’

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MIDDLEWEIGHT BOUT PITTING JOHN SALTER AGAINST  CLAUDIO ANNICCHIARICO ADDED TO MAIN CARD OF BELLATOR MMA’S RETURN TO ITALY

SANTA MONICA, CALIF (November 1, 2016) – A light heavyweight bout pitting Philipe Lins (10-1) against Pietro Cappelli (2-1) and a middleweight fight between John Salter (12-3) and Claudio Annicchiarico (1-4) have been added to “Bellator 168: Carvalho vs. Manhoef 2,” which will feature both Bellator MMA and Bellator Kickboxing brands emanating from the Mandela Forum in Florence on Dec. 10.

The evening is highlighted by a main event middleweight world title rematch pitting Rafael Carvalho (13-1) against Melvin Manhoef (30-13-1, 2 NC). In addition, Italy’s own Alessio Sakara (18-11, 2 NC) and Joey “The Mexicutioner” Beltran (17-13, 1 NC) will duke it out in a light heavyweight feature fight. “Bellator 168: Carvalho vs. Manhoef 2” will air on SPIKE at 4pm ET/PT.

A native of Florence, Italy, Cappelli has made an immediate splash in MMA, earning consecutive victories following his professional debut in 2015. Cappelli’s first career win came at the expense of Andrzej Kulik, when the 32-year-old delivered a brutal first round knockout. He then parlayed the emphatic victory with another first round finish, displaying his noteworthy ground game with a keylock submission just one minute and one second into the bout. With a noticeable message reading “unscarred” across his stomach, the Italian competitor prepares to dive in head first with a challenging matchup against the veteran Lins in his Bellator MMA debut.

The 31-year-old Lins will enter the cage for the 12th time in his career and fifth since making his Bellator MMA debut in 2014. Hailing from Brazil, Lins began his professional career on a nine-fight winning streak, finishing opponents in seven of the victories. “Monstro” has recorded a trio of significant victories since joining the Scott Coker-led promotion, including two first round finishes and his most recent knockout win over fellow Brazilian competitor Guilherme Viana at “Bellator 159: Caldwell vs. Taimanglo.” Lins hopes to build off of his big win and silence a crowd that will be heavily in favor of his Italian opponent Cappelli.

Fresh off of his first career victory, a first round knockout over Ilyrian Hoxhay, the 32-year-old Annicchiarico looks to continue his success when he enters the cage for the first time under the direction of Bellator MMA. The Italian middleweight will face a difficult first test in Salter, a 15-fight veteran that hasn’t been defeated since 2012. With a pair of submission defeats to Salter’s name, look for Annicchiarico to take the fight to the ground and grind it out there.

The former Strikeforce competitor Salter will make his third appearance under the Bellator MMA banner, after recording victories in his first two bouts with the promotion. He is riding a recent string of success, having won four consecutive contests and seven of his past eight. Over his seven-year career, the 31-year-old Nashville, Tenn., native has collected a dozen professional victories, recording finishes in all. With nine of his 12 career wins coming in the opening round of action, Salter is known to be one of the quickest strikers in the division and most recently finished former middleweight champion Brandon Halsey.

 

Complete “Bellator 168: Carvalho vs. Manhoef 2” Card:

Middleweight World Title Bout: Rafael Carvalho (13-1) vs. Melvin Manhoef (30-13-1, 2 NC)

Light Heavyweight Feature Fight: Alessio Sakara (18-11, 2 NC) vs. Joey Beltran (17-13, 1 NC)

Light Heavyweight Feature Fight: Philipe Lins (10-1) vs. Pietro Cappelli (2-1)

Middleweight Feature Fight: John Salter (12-3) vs. Claudio Annicchiarico (1-4)

Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Spike TV

LIGHTWEIGHT REMATCH PITTING PATRICKY PITBULL AGAINST DEREK CAMPOS SERVES AS MAIN EVENT AT SECOND NIGHT OF BELLATOR DOUBLEHEADER INSIDE WINSTAR WORLD CASINO & RESORT

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JOHN TEIXEIRA GETS NEW OPPONENT JUSTIN LAWRENCE WHILE TOP WRESTLING PROSPECT JAROD TRICE MAKES HIS DEBUT AGAINST BRANDON LEE ON STACKED PRELIMINARY CARD

 

 

SANTA MONICA, CALIF. (November 1, 2016) – An undisclosed injury to Pat Curran, who was originally scheduled to fight John Teixeira(20-1-2), has opened the door for a lightweight main event pitting Patricky Pitbull (16-8) against Derek Campos (17-6) on the second night of a special doubleheader inside WinStar World Casino & Resort in Thackerville, OK., on Saturday, December 3.

 

In lieu of the injured former featherweight champion, Teixeira will now face Justin Lawrence (9-3) in main card action. In addition, Bellator MMA is pleased to announce the professional debut of three-time All American wrestling prospect Jarod Trice, who will challenge Brandon Lee (4-1) during the Bellator.com-streamed preliminary card.

 

The second night of entertainment – “Bellator 167” – features a flyweight bout pitting undefeated budding superstar Ilima-Lei MacFarlane (4-0) against Emily Ducote (4-1), as well as Chidi Njokuani (15-4, 1 NC) versus Andre Fialho (7-0) in three rounds of welterweight action on the Spike-televised main card.

 

A bantamweight world title rematch pitting current champion Eduardo Dantas (18-4) against Joe Warren (14-5) and a featherweight bout pitting undefeated prospect A.J. McKee (5-0) against Emmanuel Sanchez (13-3) will highlight the first night of excitement at “Bellator 166.”Lastly, a bantamweight bout between Marcos Galvao (17-7-1) and L.C. Davis (23-7) will also be featured on the main card of the doubleheader’s opening night.

 

Tickets for the unique doubleheader event start at just $45 and can be purchased at the WinStar World Casino & Resort Box Office, as well as Ticketmaster and Bellator.com.

 

“Bellator 167: Pitbull vs. Campos 2” airs live and free on Saturday on SPIKE at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT., while “Bellator 166: Dantas vs. Warren 2”airs live and free on Friday on SPIKE at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT. Preliminary bouts for both events will stream live on Bellator.com and The Bellator Mobile App.

 

The 30-year-old Brazilian star originally caught the promotion’s attention following an electric start to his professional career, as he earned a victory in seven of his first eight fights. Now a 16-fight veteran of Bellator MMA, Freire enters the contest having won six of his last nine bouts, including knockout finishes over division powerhouses Ryan Couture, David Rickels, and most notably Derek Campos in the pair’s first brawl two years ago. The second round victory over Campos marked only the second time in his career that an opponent was able to finish him via knockout. Freire has already put together a stellar 2016 campaign, with wins over Couture and Kevin Souza, as well as a lightweight title shot against Michael Chandler. “Pitbull” will look to further cement his feet atop the division’s elite with a strong performance against the equally-tested veteran Campos.

 

Prior to an undisclosed injury, Campos was originally set for a rematch with “Pitbull” in Italy at “Bellator 152,” but now the 28-year-old Texan will have his shot at revenge even closer to home base. Hailing from Lubbock, Texas, “The Stallion” comes in having won eight of his last 11 bouts, including knockout victories over Melvin Guillard and Estevan Payan. With a professional record of 3-1 in Thackerville, including a KOTC Junior Welterweight Championship in 2012, Campos has clearly claimed WinStar World Casino & Resort his home away from home. Currently riding a recent string of success, Campos will look to add to his current two-fight winning streak and continue his dominance in OK.

 

The 29-year-old Teixeira continues to make a name for himself in Bellator MMA’s featherweight division, as he will make his fourth appearance under the promotion’s direction following three consecutive victories. Similar to his opponent, Teixeira also steps into the cage on a recent string of success, having won seven of his last eight bouts, including a trio of first round knockouts. Prior to his days with Bellator MMA, Teixeira began his professional career fighting exclusively in Brazil, posting an undefeated record of 12-0 with one draw. The upcoming bout marks only the fourth time in Teixeira’s nine year career that he will fight outside of his native Brazil. With 14 of his 19 career wins coming by way of knockout or submission, you can be sure to see “Macapa” go for the finishing blow early and often in this mouthwatering matchup.

 

Following the recent news of an undisclosed injury that forced Pat Curran to withdraw, Lawrence has agreed to fill in to face Teixeira. After beginning his professional career under the direction of Strikeforce, Lawrence has found a home in Bellator MMA’s formidable featherweight division. “The American Kid” has tallied a pair of highlight-reel knockouts since joining the Scott Coker-led promotion last year, including his most recent victory over Isao Kobayashi at “Bellator 157: Dynamite 2.” The emphatic finish was the fifth of his young career and fourth by way of knockout. Dating back to 2013, the 26-year-old striker has won five of his last six contests, three of which came by way of knockout. Hailing from Pacific, Missouri, the former UFC competitor will look to keep the ball rolling against another tough opponent in Teixeira.

 

Three-time All American wrestling prospect Jarod Trice will be making his highly anticipated professional debut, following his recent signing with the promotion earlier this year. Trice joins Aaron Pico, Ed Ruth and Tyrell Fortune as a few of the recent signees that make up the new wave of incredibly talented wrestling prospects to flock to Bellator MMA. The Detroit, Michigan native competed at Central Michigan University, where he has also earned a National Title at 120 kg and two Greco Roman National Titles, with one at 120 kg and another at 98 kg.The 27-year-old also saw a great deal of success following an impressive 50-pound weight-loss transformation, something that will surely come in handy in a sport that demands severe weight discipline.

 

Fighting out of Clinton, OK., Lee will not have to travel far when he makes his Bellator MMA debut inside WinStar World Casino & Resort in Thackerville, on December 3. The 41-year-old heavyweight has had a great deal of success to date, recording four wins over his five career bouts under the direction of regional promotions. “The Undertaker” has finished his opponent in the opening round of each of his four professional victories, including a brutal knockout in his most recent win earlier this year. Lee will drop down to the 205-pound division for his promotional debut, looking to crash the party that is top prospect Jarod Trice and his widely followed professional debut.

 

Complete “Bellator 167: Pitbull vs. Campos 2” Main Card:

Lightweight Main Event: Patricky “Pitbull” Freire (16-8) vs. Derek Campos (17-6)

Flyweight Feature Bout: Ilima MacFarlane (4-0) vs. Emily Ducote (4-1)

Welterweight Feature Bout: Chidi Njokuani (15-4, 1 NC) vs. Andre Fialho (7-0)

Featherweight Preliminary Bout: John Teixeira (19-1-2) vs. Justin Lawrence (9-3)

 

Updated Preliminary Card:

Light Heavyweight Preliminary Bout: Jarod Trice (Debut) vs. Brandon Lee (4-1)

Welterweight Preliminary Bout: Abdul Razak Al Hassan (5-0) vs. Dakota Cochrane (26-10)

Lightweight Preliiminary Bout: Jonathan Gary (11-6) vs. Aaron Roberson (5-4)

Featherweight Preliminary Bout: Brandon Philips (6-2) Stephen Banaszak (5-5)

Welterweight Preliminary Bout: Justin Patterson (7-1) vs. Codale Ford (11-8)

Welterweight Preliminary Bout: Fernando Gonzalez (Debut) vs. Chris Hicks (3-8)

mixed martial arts, MMA, WMMAA

Move turns ideas into results Mexico vs. Colombia competition Provides platform for athletes

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MONTE CARLO, Monaco (November 1, 2016)- The Mexican MMA Commission (COMEXAMM) and Colombian MMA Federation (FECODEAMM), respectively led by Hector Molina and Jaime Arturo Pena, have partnered to provide a bi-national undercard in lieu of the recent cancellation of the inaugural World MMA Association (WMMAA) Pan-American Division Championships due to problems associated with the hosting Chile Federation.
The Mexico vs. Colombia fights will be on the undercard of the November 18th Combato Extremo event, promoted by Ubaldo Marroquin, at Auditorio National, Monterrey, Mexico.  Mexican and Colombian fighters who were supposed to compete in the aforementioned WMMAA Pan-American Division Championships can now have the opportunity to be in action.
Molina has been instrumental in WMMAA Pan-American Division development since 2014 as president of the Mexican Commission of MMA, as well as the Pan-American Director of the Regulatory Committee.
“That first year,” Molina said, “we are focused on identifying the best parts of he WMMAA regulatory programs – its people, programs, systems and processes – then quickly and effectively integrating these parts into a stronger centralized continental organization partner with improved, more useful, more impactful systems and resources.  When you bring together multiple organizations there are real differences that need to be addressed, including cultural, and business operations, as well as geographic differences.”
Molina and his leadership team studied the WMMAA systems, maintained what successfully worked, and improved other aspects to build a new network.  They retained top talent and aligned them with COMEXAMM’s bold culture, also adding some new people in areas perceived as non-optical to support business.  Ultimately, Molina bold a team that embraced core values and visions for regulatory that was instilled in him by mentors and years of experience.
“We started with the premise that we hire the best people in the industry; that we train them well, and offer them cutting-edge resources and skills.  We empower our people to make smart decisions and, most importantly, we trust our people key members like Gustavo Cantu.  This trust is critical to our success.  When we empower and trust people, they want to take ownership, not only for results, but for how we get our results.”
One of Molina’s first accomplishments at WMMAA has been the restructuring and realignment of the rules and regulations committee to mirror the company’s operating model.  The Continental Rules and Regulations Committee was built on the principle guard railing the unstoppable growth of MMA and given the dynamic nature of WMMAA.
“Moves like these, from leaders like Hector Molina, are the ones that many organization would dream about in moments of crisis,” WMMAA Pan-American Division president Tomas Yu remarked, “giving a new definition to what it means to be part of the WMMAA family.”
The WMMAA Pan-American Division is a leader of a new industry category – growth Federation – powered by a committee to growth, focusing on MMA as a sport area leadership, in addition to dedication to operational excellence, investment in research and development innovation, and a strong focus on its members.
To maintain its position as an industry leader, WMMAA Pan-American Division practices what it calls, “Living Bold.” This culture embraces five principles: building bridges, powering ideas, acting fast, driving results, and always doing what is right.  Molina and his team create regulatory strategies, systems, and programs that embody this culture.
“As opposed to being a back-room function that primarily creates policies and performs audits, my teams are aligned with the business units and are in the field with them daily,” Molina explained.  “We advise in real time and proactively collaborate in strategy and planning meetings so our business can come up with innovative ideas, act fast, and quickly drive results.”
“My team knows that I am a bit of a regulatory geek when it comes to our work.  It’s extremely exciting from a strategic perspective because it allows us to become a more valuable partner to the colleagues who run the business.  We’ve always had strong, productive and active strategies.  And we always will!  By continuously challenging the status quo, asking ourselves how we can do things differently, and ultimately advancing our regulatory program, we will make a meaningful contribution to helping the WMMAA be bold, act fast and power ideas.”
INFORMATION:
Twitter:  @theWMMAA
Instagram: @worldmmaa
Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Spike TV

FORMER DIVISION CHAMP MARCOS GALVAO RETURNS TO FACE L.C. DAVIS DURING OPENING NIGHT OF BELLATOR MMA DOUBLEHEADER AT WINSTAR WORLD CASINO & RESORT

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CHRIS HONEYCUTT-BEN REITER MIDDLEWEIGHT BOUT PUTS STAMP ON STACKED MAIN CARD

SANTA MONICA, CALIF. (October 31, 2016) – A bantamweight feature fight pitting Marcos Galvao (17-7-1) against L.C. Davis (23-7) and a middleweight clash between Chris Honeycutt (8-1, 1 NC) and Ben Reiter (17-1-1) have been added to the main card of “Bellator 166: Dantas vs. Warren 2” inside WinStar World Casino & Resort in Thackerville, OK., on December 2.

The first night of entertainment – “Bellator 166: Dantas vs. Warren 2” — will feature a bantamweight world title rematch between current champion Eduardo Dantas (18-4) and former belt holder Joe Warren (14-5). In addition, a featherweight clash pitting undefeated prospect A.J. McKee (5-0) against Emmanuel Sanchez (13-3) will also air live and free on the SPIKE-televised card.

Tickets for the unique doubleheader event start at just $45 and can be purchased at the WinStar World Casino & Resort Box Office, as well as Ticketmaster and Bellator.com.

“Bellator 166: Dantas vs. Warren 2” airs live and free on Friday on SPIKE at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT. “Bellator 167” airs live and free on Saturday on SPIKE at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT. Preliminary bouts for both events will stream live on Bellator.com and The Bellator Mobile App. Additional bouts will be announced in the coming weeks.

Brazilian superstar Marcos Galvao returns to action having won seven of his last nine and is ready for another push at the division’s belt. Hailing from Amazonas, Brazil, the illusive “Loro” has only been finished once in the past seven years, while conversely finishing his opponent in five of his 11 wins over that same period. Now Galvao returns to WinStar World Casino & Resort, the same venue where he fought and defeated Joe Warren for bantamweight gold at “Bellator 135.” Subsequently, Warren will also prepare to compete at “Bellator 166: Dantas vs. Warren 2,” as he and Eduardo Dantas will face off in the main event. Needless to say, the 34-year-old Galvao will have tremendous motivation to win, as the division he once championed dominates a stacked main card in Thackerville.

Davis enters the contest for the fifth time under the Bellator MMA banner, earning victories in three of his first four bouts with the promotion. The 35-year-old bantamweight has finished his opponent in 15 of his 23 career wins, including 11 in the opening round. A winner in seven of his last nine contests, the Kansas City, Missouri native consistently finds himself amid conversation with the division’s top contenders. Davis hopes to replicate the same success that he had in his most recent victory over Hideo Tokoro at “Bellator 135,” where his split decision win was labeled Yahoo! Sports’ “Best Fight of the Half-Year.” The former Pratt Community College wrestling coach now faces an opportunity to climb the ranks in a tasty matchup against one of the game’s best.

A six-fight veteran of Bellator MMA, Honeycutt made a lasting impression in his first two appearances under the promotion, recording back-to-back knockouts. Fighting out of Fresno, Calif., the 28-year-old knockout artist began his professional career with an impressive streak of six consecutive victories, including five finishes and four knockouts. “The Cutt” made a successful transition to the welterweight division in his Bellator MMA debut in 2014, before returning to the middleweight class in his most recent win over Mikkel Parlo at “Bellator 156.”

After making his professional debut in 2011, Reiter collected sixteen wins before surrendering his first career loss. The 29-year-old New Yorker competed mainly in Peru early in his career, fighting under the direction of Inka Fighting Championship, before joining the Bellator MMA fray in 2014. Since making his promotional debut for the Scott Coker-led organization, “The Hunter” has added three more victories to his already impressive résumé, as he quickly finds himself among the division’s elite. With nine of his 17 career wins coming by way of knockout or submission, Reiter hopes to add to that total with another finish in the first of a two-night special doubleheader in Thackerville, OK. Standing at six feet three inches, Reiter will look to expose his opponent Honeycutt with a significant advantage in both height and reach.

 

Complete “Bellator 166: Dantas vs. Warren 2” Main Card:

Bantamweight World Title Main Event: Eduardo Dantas (18-4) vs. Joe Warren (14-5)

Featherweight Co-Main Event: A.J. McKee (5-0) vs. Emmanuel Sanchez (13-3)

Bantamweight Feature Bout: Marcos Galvao (17-7-1) vs. L.C. Davis (23-7)

Middleweight Feature Bout: Chris Honeycutt (8-1, 1 NC) vs. Ben Reiter (17-1-1)

 

Updated Preliminary Card:

Featherweight Preliminary Bout: Treston Thomison (9-4) vs. Ray Wood (7-2)

Lightweight Preliminary Bout: Chris Jones (10-4) vs. Derrick Adkins (7-2)

Light Heavyweight Preliminary Bout: Kennedy Nzechukwu (Debut) vs. Jon Lair (2-0)

Welterweight Preliminary Bout: Chance Rencountre (8-2) Levi Queen (8-3)

Middleweight Preliminary Bout: Gregory Babene (17-11) vs. Emiliano Sordi (14-5)

Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Spike TV

TICKETS FOR TITO ORTIZ VS. CHAEL SONNEN AT ‘BELLATOR 170’ GO ON SALE FRIDAY

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B170_1920x1080_tuneinEXCLUSIVE PRESALES BEGIN TOMORROW AT 12 PM PST

 

KICKOFF PRESS CONFERENCE TAKING PLACE NOV. 3 AT MOHEGAN SUN PRIOR TO BELLATOR 163

 

 

SANTA MONICA, CALIF (October 27, 2016) – It’s a fight that many mixed martial arts fans thought they’d never see, but on January 21, 2017, both Tito Ortiz (18-12-1) and Chael Sonnen (28-14-1) will return to action inside the beautifully renovated Forum in Inglewood, Calif., to headline “Bellator 170: Ortiz vs. Sonnen.” In college, the two met on the wrestling mat, in a matchup that Sonnen won by pinning Ortiz on his birthday. Now, Ortiz will have the opportunity to avenge that loss when the compete in the Bellator MMA cage on SPIKE.

 

Tickets for this massive event go on sale to the general public TOMORROW, Friday, Oct. 28 at Bellator.com, as well as Ticketmaster.com, but if you are a member of Bellator Nation, you’ll have exclusive access to seats TODAY if you use the code “Bellator” when checking out.

 

The event will be broadcast live and free on SPIKE at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT, while preliminary action will stream on Bellator.com and the Bellator Mobile App. Additional main and preliminary card bouts will be announcing in the coming weeks.

 

Since shocking the world with his surprise signing with Bellator MMA last month, Sonnen has made it clear he wants to fight anyone and everyone – regardless of weight class, or anything else that could stand in his way. Sitting atop that list, is a name that has sat atop the sport of MMA practically since its inception, Tito Ortiz.

 

Not one to shy away from any sort of challenge, “The Huntington Beach Bad Boy” wasted zero time welcoming “The American Gangster” to the fray as only he can, by responding to Sonnen’s call-out with open arms on his social media account.

 

Sonnen spent a vast majority of his 43-fight career with the UFC, a run where he competed against names the likes of Jon Jones, Anderson Silva (2x), Rashad Evans, “Shogun” Rua, Demian Maia, Brian Stann, and current middleweight champion Michael Bisping. In addition to his exploits inside the cage, the West Linn, Ore., native has mastered the art of being in front of the camera, doing major broadcasting work for both ESPN and Fox Sports. Now, after a three-year hiatus from active MMA competition, Sonnen looks to add to his impressive resume by defeating Ortiz.

 

Known to the masses as “The Huntington Beach Bad Boy” or “The People’s Champion” Tito Ortiz is a fan-favorite all over the world.  The former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion has always been one of the toughest competitors in the cage, utilizing his wrestling background; Ortiz is a grinder who defended his title an impressive five times. Always with a flair for the dramatic, Ortiz had intense rivalries in the cage with guys like Ken Shamrock, Chuck Liddell, Wanderlei Silva, and Randy Couture. Most recently, Ortiz challenged current Bellator MMA 205-pound champion Liam McGeary at“Bellator: Dynamite 1.”

 

Updated “Bellator 170: Ortiz vs. Sonnen” Main Card:

Light Heavyweight Main Event: Tito Ortiz (18-12-1) vs. Chael Sonnen (28-14-1)

Combate Americas, mixed martial arts, MMA

TV AZTECA AND COMBATE AMERICAS SIGN EXCLUSIVE AGREEMENT TO BROADCAST LIVE, WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP MMA EVENTS  IN SPANISH FROM U.S. AND MEXICO

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LIVE SERIES KICKS OFF
WITH WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP REMATCH
FROM MEXICO CITY ON JANUARY 19

Azteca’s first MMA programming deal in history also
includes weekly series showcasing
Combate Americas’ fastest rising stars

NEW YORK/MEXICO CITY DF, October 26 — Combate Americas, the premier Hispanic Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) sports franchise, and TV Azteca, S.A.B. de C.V. (BMV: AZTECA; Latibex: XTZA), one of the two largest producers of Spanish-language television programming in the world, today announced an exclusive, year-long agreement to broadcast live world champion MMA events in the U.S. and Mexico.

In addition to monthly live events, the partnership, which marks the first time in history Azteca will carry MMA programming in Mexico, also includes a weekly series that will showcase the most exciting Combate Americas fights to date as well as highlight the league’s prolific, young fighters and celebrity personalities.

The live events and weekly series will be featured on both TV Azteca’s Channel 7 in Mexico and Azteca America in the U.S.  Broadcast from Mexico City, the first live event under the new partnership is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 19.

“MMA has developed a worldwide audience and through Combate Americas, a passionate following among the fast-growing U.S. Hispanic, millennial audience, which is why we wanted this programming for both U.S. and Mexico,” said Rodrigo Fernández, Director of Azteca 7.  “Campbell McLaren understands MMA better than anyone, which is why Azteca wants to be part of what we believe will be phenomenal growth for Combate Americas.”

“As we’ve seen with our soccer programming, live sports events drive Hispanic millennial viewing.  That’s why the opportunity to deliver MMA, with its proven track record, to our audience is so compelling,” said Manuel Abud, president and CEO, Azteca America. “Combate Americas understands the sport and our audience.  It’s an unbeatable combination.”

“Our partnership with Azteca will take Combate Americas to the next level,” said Combate Americas founder and CEO Campbell McLaren.  “I was there for the beginning of the UFC and saw how critical the correct television partner is to the growth of the franchise.  Azteca has incredible reach in both the U.S. and Mexico, which is why this is such an exciting time for us.”

The weekly series, Combate Americas Azteca, hosted by award-winning MMA journalist and Combate Americas color commentator Andrea Calle, will premiere on Thursday, Nov., 3 at 10 p.m. in the U.S. on Azteca America, and on Friday, Nov. 4 at 11 p.m. on TV Azteca’s Channel 7 in Mexico, following the popular La Liga Mexicana football.  The monthly live events air live in the U.S. and the following night in Mexico.

Founded by UFC co-creator McLaren and co-owned by Creative Artist Agency (CAA), Bunim/Murray Productions and Major League Baseball Advanced Media (MLBAM), Combate Americas is the first fight-themed show to win a major television award (“Best Variety or Reality Series” at the 29th annual Imagen Awards on August 1, 2014).  The company has expanded its roster to include over 40 fighters and, after producing two live events in 2015, it rolled out a total of five live events in 2016.

Combate Americas live events will continue to air in English via UFC FIGHT PASS®, a digital subscription service which gives fans access to exclusive live UFC events and fights, exclusive live MMA and combat sports events from around the world, exclusive original and behind the scenes content and unprecedented 24-7 access to the world’s largest fight library.
# # #

ABOUT TV AZTECA
TV Azteca is one of the two largest producers of Spanish-language television programming in the world, operating two national television networks in Mexico, El trece and Azteca 7, through more than 300 owned and operated stations across the country.  TV Azteca affiliates include Azteca US, a broadcast television network focused on the rapidly growing U.S. Hispanic market, and Azteca Web, an Internet company for North American Spanish speakers.
Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA

RALEK GRACIE SET TO RESUME MMA CAREER WITH BELLATOR

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SANTA MONICA, Calif. — (October 26, 2016) – Bellator MMA is proud to announce the signing of Ralek Gracie (3-0) to an exclusive multi-fight, multi-year contract.

Ralek is the third son of Rorion, the nephew of Royce, Rickson, and Royler Gracie and received his black belt from Grand Master Helio Gracie. The Gracie Family is famous for putting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu on the map around the globe.

At only 22, Ralek made his MMA debut in Japan, where he defeated his opponent, Kastuyori Shibata with a devastating armbar. Nearly a year later, Ralek returned to Japan for his second MMA fight and again was victorious, this time defeating Gahdzhiev Alavutdin with an armbar from the mount. These two bouts led to a highly anticipated matchup with Kazushi Sakuraba, where again the Los Angeles native left “The Land of the Rising Sun” with the victory. That was the last time Ralek would fight under MMA rules, until now.

“I was bred for hand-to-hand combat over generations and I simply can’t ignore that during my physical prime. My destiny is calling me and my opponent is irrelevant, it’s go time,” Gracie said. “It’s crazy to see where fighting has come since my childhood of seeing everything unfold from behind the scenes. Bellator is really stepping up the opportunities fighters have to compete more often and in different countries and I’m excited to join that movement and test my style in this modern MMA era.”

It has yet to be determined which weight class the 31-year-old will participate in, but expect to see him lace up the gloves for Bellator MMA in early 2017.

Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Spike TV

VOTE FOR PHIL DAVIS 2016 – AMERICA’S WONDERFUL CHOICE

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SANTA MONICA, Calif. (Oct. 25, 2016) – Hey America! As we near the 2016 Presidential Election, Bellator MMA is headed to the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn on Friday, November 4 with one of the most intriguing cards of the year. Headlining the event, Phil “Mr. Wonderful” Davis is on the campaign trail as he prepares for one of the biggest fights of his career vs current Light Heavyweight Champion, Liam McGeary.

 

In advance of the card’s main event, Bellator’s digital team collaborated with Davis and stand-up comedian, Adam Hunter, to produce a collection of six original digital campaign videos with a clear message that there is a better choice! Complementing the digital shorts, fans can actually vote for Davis at the touch of a button at www.VoteForPhilDavis.com up until fight night on November 4. In the meantime, watch these “wonderful” clips below and see why Davis’ stance outside the cage will make MMA great again!

 

One of the more outspoken athletes in MMA, Davis comes in having won three consecutive contests and seven of his last nine. In addition, the 31-year-old has finished his opponent in half of his 16 career wins, including five submission victories. Davis earned his shot at McGeary and the highly coveted 205-pound belt with a key win over “King Mo” at “Bellator 154: Davis vs. King Mo” earlier this year. A 13-fight veteran of the UFC, Davis will likely not be fazed by the bright lights of the Mohegan Sun Arena, in what is possibly the biggest challenge of his illustrious career. Look for the former NCAA National Champion wrestler to take this contest to the canvas and display his impeccable ground game in front of a packed Connecticut crowd.

 

 

 

 

HEAR HIS PLATFORM

 

  

DEBATES

 

 

EQUAL PAY

 

 

  

GAS
 

FITNESS

  

GUNS

 

 

 

“Bellator 163: McGeary vs. Davis” Fight Card

Light Heavyweight World Title Fight: Liam McGeary (11-0) vs. Phil Davis (16-3)

Welterweight Co-Main Event: Saad Awad (19-8) vs. Brennan Ward (13-4)

Welterweight Feature Bout: Paul Daley (38-14-2) vs. Derek Anderson (14-2)

Heavyweight Feature Bout: Sergei Kharitonov (23-5) vs. Javy Ayala (9-5)

Featherweight Feature Bout: Marloes Coenen (23-7) vs. Talita Nogueira (6-0)

 

Preliminary Card

Middleweight Preliminary Bout: Ed Ruth (Debut) vs. Mark Mangiardi (Debut)

Heavyweight Preliminary Bout: Tyrell Fortune (Debut) vs. Cody Miskell (Debut)

Catchweight Preliminary Bout: Neiman Gracie (4-0) vs. Rudy Bears (16-14)

Heavyweight Preliminary Bout: Josh Diekmann (15-7, 1 NC) vs. Tyler King (11-4)

Featherweight Preliminary Bout: Blair Tugman (8-6) vs. Walter Smith-Cotito (4-4, 1 NC)

Middleweight Preliminary Bout: Michael Zichelle (8-4) vs. Tim Caron (5-0)

Welterweight Preliminary Bout: Ilya Kotau (1-1) vs. Carlos Corriea (1-0)

Flyweight Preliminary Bout: Sarah Payant (1-3) vs. Hannah Regina (Debut)

Welterweight Preliminary Bout: Keenan Raymond (3-3) vs. Kastroit Xhema (Debut)

Welterweight Preliminary Bout: James Boran (6-0) vs. Vinicius De Jesus (4-1)

Featherweight Preliminary Bout: Thomas English (6-6) vs. Christopher Foster (9-4)

 

Combat Zone MMA, mixed martial arts, MMA

COMBAT ZONE INVITES YOU TO CZ 60 “RETURN TO THE RADISSON”

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NEW ENGLAND'S PREMIERE MMA PROMOTION Combat Zone Returns to Manchester, NH !
 

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COMBAT ZONE MMA MOVES TO MANCHESTER, NH;

CZ 60 TO BE WAGED SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 19

 

SALEM NH- (October 19, 2016)- Combat Zone MMA, the longest running mixed martial arts promotion in New England and one the most successful in the Northeast, is relocating its exhilarating events stacked with professional and amateur MMA and kickboxing fights to Manchester, NH and returning to its roots, co-owners Calvin Kattar and Jamison Kattar announced today.

 

After calling the recently shuttered Rockingham Park in Salem, NH home for the past eight years, Combat Zone is coming to the Armory Room on-site at the Radisson Hotel in Downtown Manchester.

 

The Armory Room is an exceptional venue that is perfectly suited to host the fights and it can accommodate comfortably up to 800 fight fans. Finished with exposed brick throughout the room it’s a perfect fit for CZ Events!

 

The first event that will be at the Aromory Room at the Radisson will be Combat Zone 60 on Saturday, November 19.

 

“I’m very excited about bringing the promotion back home to where it all first started at the Radisson. We feel the new location will allow us to make the necessary changes to appeal to a wider audience while continuing to provide action-packed fights for our loyal fan base,” said Calvin Kattar, who recently returned to action inside the cage and improved his record to 16-2 and his rank to #2 among pro featherweights in New England.

 

The Kattar brothers and matchmaker Ryan Fennelly are still putting the Combat Zone 60 card together, but fight fans can expect to be treated to the MMA Lightweight Amateur Title defense when challenger Gerald Meuse (4-1) from Boston tries to tale the belt from undefeated champion Dave Brown (3-0). Brown, who hails from Laconia, NH, earned the belt in his last fight when he beat the previously unblemished Shawn Melanson.

 

What shapes up as another terrific and intense match-up on what will be a full card of action includes the pro kickboxing fight between Ray Shawdee, who coaches at New England Top Team in Windham, NH and hails rom Lowell, MA, and Maine’s always fearsome Crowsneck Boutin. This fight has potential title implications for the winner.

 

Other expected and competitive, tough fights are MMA pros Jay Perrin 2-2 vs. Chad Kelley 4-2 matching up at 135 lbs. and Salem’s Nick Fiore (1-0) vs. Taylor Costatino (2-2) competing as amateurs at catch weight of 150 lbs.

 

The complete card will be announced shortly.

 

Combat Zone MMA will remain headquartered in Salem, NH and tickets may still be purchased through the website: www.czmma.com. Ticket prices will be $120 for ringside seating, $90, $60, $50, and $40 for general admission. Tickets are also available by calling Jamison Kattar at 978-361-6772.

 

Parking will be available in the Radisson garage or on the street.

 

The weigh-in will be Friday, November 18 at a time and place to be announced soon.

 

For ticket info or to get an updated fight card visit us at CZMMA.COM or check out our FB page “Combat Zone MMA”

 
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Event details
Combat Zone highlights from past shows to spark the excitement!
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