Tag Archives: Mbuaha Mara Arts

RICHARD TO PUT LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE ON THE LINE AGAINST CORSON AT NEF 43

Ozugbo tọhapụ: Orono, Maine (February 19, 2020) - New England alụkarị ọgụ (NEF) will present its next mixed-martial-arts (Emmanuel) at the Collins Center for the Arts on the University of Maine’s flagship Orono campus. The event, titled “NEF 43: Rampage,” will take place on Saturday, April 18, 2020, with a bell-time of 7 pm EDT.Zac “Rocky” Richard(6-2-1) is scheduled to defend the NEF Amateur Lightweight Title that evening against the challenge ofDevin Corson(3-1).  They will meet at the lightweight championship limit of 155 pounds in a bout scheduled for five three-minute rounds.

Richard won the then-vacant championship last November in Portland, Maine with a unanimous decision victory over “Magic” Mike Murray (3-2).  He is no stranger to titles, having won a Maine State Championship wrestling for Massabesic High School in Waterboro in 2015. The win capped a tremendous sophomore year in the cage for Richard as the follow-up to his 2018 “Rookie of the Year” season. The last time Richard fought on the stage of the Collins Center, na September 2019, he scored a vicious slam knockout of Erik Tainter (0-2).  The slam has become a signature move for Richard over the course of his young career. He is a product of Nostos MMA of Somersworth, New Hampshire where he trains under UFC veteran and former NEF Professional Lightweight Champion Devin Powell (10-4).

“Devin can say whatever he wants about me winning my title ‘at the right time,’” said Richard. “He’s had his offers. He’s got it. Unluckily for him, he’s got the most motivated Zac there has ever been. I do predict this fight, ezie, to be a great one.”

Speaking of slams, there may be no athlete who has ever delivered more highlight-reel slams in the NEF cage than the challenger Devin Corson. Like Richard, Corson brings a strong wrestling base with him to the MMA game, having been a standout competitor on the mats for Foxcroft Academy in Dover-Foxcroft, Maine. Corson is currently riding a two-fight win-streak with unanimous decision wins over both Jacob Deppmeyer (ugbu a 1-0 dị ka a pro) and Taylor Bartlett (2-3-1) in 2019. He represents the Outlet based in Dexter, Maine.

“I don’t think much about Zac besides he is in my way,” stated Corson. “He’s the man I have to defeat to get the 155 belt. After all is said and done, I will be the one with my hand raised.”

New England alụkarị ọgụ’ next mixed-martial-arts event, “NEF 43: Rampage,” will take place on Saturday, April 18, 2020, at the Collins Center for the Arts at UMaine Orono. Tickets will be on sale this week atwww.CollinsCenterfortheArts.com.  

Banyere New England alụkarị ọgụ

New England alụkarị ọgụ ("NEF") bụ a ọgụ ihe n'ọkwá ụlọ ọrụ. NEF’s mission is to create the highest quality events for fighters and fans alike. NEF Executive otu nwere ọtụtụ ahụmahụ na ọgụ egwuregwu management, ihe mmepụta, media mmekọahụ, ahịa, na iwu na mgbasa ozi.

FULL FIGHT CARD AND BROADCAST DETAILS FOR BELLATOR 239: RUTH VS. AMOSOV THIS FRIDAY, -Ahụ. 21

MAIN CARD TO AIR ON PARAMOUNT NETWORK & DAZN AT 9 P.M. NA





LOS ANGELES – The full slate of bouts for Bellator’s return to WinStar World Casino and Resort in Thackerville, Okla. a Friday, February 21 has been finalized with a stacked four-fight main card airing at 9 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. CT on Paramount Network and DAZN. Ọzọkwa, a total of 13 preliminary fights will stream on Bellator MMA’s YouTube channel and DAZN beginning at 6:15 p.m. PT/5:15 p.m. CT.



Isi ihe omume nke Bellator 239 will feature an exciting welterweight clash between two of the division’s best prospects, as three-time NCAA National Wrestling Champion Na Ruth (8-1) takes on undefeated Ukrainian striker Yaroslav Amosov (22-0). Ọzọkwa na kaadị, a premiere lightweight matchup between Minnesota’s own Brandon Girtz (16-8) and recent Bellator free agent signing Myles Jury (17-5), as well as two pivotal matchups in the heavyweight division as Tyrell Fortune (8-0) is set to meet UFC-veteran Timothy Johnson (12-6) na n'elu contender Javy Ayala (11-7) goes to battle against a member of Fedor Emelianenko’s team in Russia, Valentin Moldavsky (8-1).



Preliminary action for Bellator 239: Ruth vs. Amosov will be highlighted by a number of young undefeated prospects returning to the cage, including Oklahoma’s Kyle Crutchmer (5-0), Christian Edwards (2-0), Chris Gonzalez (3-0), Grant Neal (2-0) and Texas’ Lucas Brennan (2-0), while familiar names in Cris Lencioni (5-2), Gaston Bolanos (5-2) na Shawn ụyọkọ (9-4) are also scheduled to compete on the card.



Ọzọkwa, the prelims will feature appearances by two Bellator Kickboxing champions in flyweight champ Denise Kielholtz (4-2) and featherweight titleholder Gabriel Varga (1-0) as they both return to the Bellator MMA cage.



Biko gaa na Bellator.com maka ozi ndị ọzọ.



Bellator 239: Ruth vs. Amosov Main Kaadị:

Paramount Network and DAZN

9 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. CT



Welterweight Main Omume: Na Ruth (8-1) vs. Yaroslav Amosov (22-0)

Kedu otu m ga Co-Main Omume: Brandon Girtz (16-8) vs. Myles Jury (17-5)

Heavyweight Main Card Bout: Tyrell Fortune (8-0) vs. Tim Johnson (12-6)

Heavyweight Main Card Bout: Javy Ayala (11-7) vs. Valentin Moldavsky (8-1)



Mbido Kaadị:

Bellator MMA’s YouTube Channel and DAZN

6:15 p.m. NA / 5:15 p.m. CT:



Ọkụ mbido ibu dị arọ: Christian Edwards (2-0) vs. Marco Hutch (3-2)

Mgba mbụ nke Bantamweight: Shawn ụyọkọ (9-4) vs. Keith Lee (5-3)

Ọkụ mbido featherweight: Gabriel Varga (1-0) vs. TeeJay Britton (5-2)

Flyweight Preliminary Bout: Denise Kielholtz (4-2) vs. Kristina Williams (3-2)

Ọkụ mbido featherweight: Gaston Bolanos (5-2) vs. Solo Hatley Jr. (7-2)

Mgba mbụ nke Bantamweight: Josh Hill (18-3) vs. Vinicius Zani (11-5)

Ọkụ mbido ibu dị arọ: Grant Neal (2-0) vs. Claude Wilcox (1-1)

175-lb. Contract Weight Bout: Kyle Crutchmer (5-0) vs. Scott Futrell (11-9)

Ọkụ mbido featherweight: Cris Lencioni (5-2) vs. Salim Mukhidinov (7-3)

Ọkụ mbido featherweight: Adil Benjilany (5-2, 1 NC) vs. Kevin Croom (20-12)

Ọkụ mbido featherweight: Lucas Brennan (2-0) vs. Jamese Taylor (0-1)

Mgba mbụ nke dị fechaa: Chris Gonzalez (3-0) vs. Aaron McKenzie (7-1-1)

Agbamrị mbido ibu arọ: J.W. Kiser (5-2) vs. Davion Franklin (Pro mpụta mbụ)



*Kaadị ga-agbanwe



Biko gaa na Bellator.com maka ozi ndị ọzọ.

DOUGLAS LIMA SEEKS DOUBLE CHAMP STATUS AGAINST GEGARD MOUSASI IN MIDDLEWEIGHT SUPERFIGHT ON SATURDAY, May 9 INSIDE SAP CENTER AT SAN JOSE

BATTLE FOR VACANT BELLATOR MMA MIDDLEWEIGHT TITLE AIRS LIVE ON PARAMOUNT NETWORK AND DAZN AT 10 P.M. ET/9 P.M. CT

Tickets go on sale this Friday, -Ahụ. 14



LOS ANGELES – A middleweight superfight for the vacant 185-pound title, pitting former divisional champion Gegard Mousasi (46-7-2) against current Bellator welterweight titleholder Douglas Lima (32-7), has been added to Bellator’s exciting return to SAP Center at San Jose on Saturday, Ka 9 – LIVE on Paramount Network and DAZN at 10 p.m. ET/9 p.m. CT.



The event is anchored by a previously announced heavyweight world title bout, featuring two-division Bellator champ Ryan Bader (27-5, 1 NC) defending his 205-pound title against Russia’s Vadim Nemkov (11-2).



Bellator: Bader vs. Nemkov airs live on Paramount Network and DAZN on Saturday, Ka 9 na 10 p.m. ET/9 p.m. CT. Preliminary action will stream on DAZN, Bellator.com and globally on the Bellator Mobile App. Tickets can be purchased at the LexisNexis Risk Solutions Ticket Office at SAP Center, through Ticketmaster and Bellator.com.



The Bellator middleweight title was recently relinquished by Rafael Lovato Jr. due to ongoing medical complications.



Fighting out of Leiden, South Holland, Netherlands, Mousasi has cemented legendary status within the sport, having won titles with multiple promotions across a 55-fight career. Ọtụtụ na-adịbeghị anya, Mousasi defeated Lyoto Machida site gbawara n'etiti mkpebi, clearing his path to a shot at a second Bellator middleweight title run. With victories in his storied career against Machida, Rory Macdonald, Chris Weidman, Rafael Carvalho, Vitor Belfort, Jacare Souza, Dan Henderson and Mark Hunt, a victory over Douglas Lima will add to his already-impressive resume.



Looking to join the ranks of Ryan Bader na Patricio “Pitbull” as two-division champions, Lima moves up 15-pounds to try his hand against Mousasi. Since making his promotional debut in 2011, “The Phenom” has earned 14 mmeri, including a trio of world titles and 10 finishes, making the American Top Team-product one of the most dominant fighters in the 170-pound division. Na 26 nke ya 32 career victories coming by way of knockout or submission, including consecutive dominant finishes over Andrey Koreshkov na Michael “Venom” Page” in the first two rounds of the World Grand Prix tournament, Lima most recently capped of his 2019 with a win over Rory MacDonald to regain the welterweight world title.



Biko gaa na Bellator.com maka ozi ndị ọzọ.



Emelitere Bellator: Bader vs. Nemkov Main Kaadị:

Paramount Network and DAZN

10 p.m. ET/9 p.m. CT



Light Heavyweight World Title Bout: Ryan Bader (27-5, 1 NC) vs. Vadim Nemkov (11-2)

Middleweight World aha agba: Gegard Mousasi (46-7-2) vs. Douglas Lima (32-7)



*Kaadị ga-agbanwe



Biko gaa na Bellator.com maka ozi ndị ọzọ.

BELLATOR RE-SIGNS CHAMPIONS DOUGLAS LIMA AND ILIMA-LEI MACFARLANE TO MULTI-YEAR, MULTI-FIGHT CONTRACT EXTENSIONS

LOS ANGELES – Bellator is proud to announce that welterweight champion Douglas Lima (32-7) and flyweight champion Ilima-lei Macfarlane (11-0) will continue to compete inside the Bellator cage after signing exclusive multi-year, multi-fight extensions to remain with the ViacomCBS-owned promotion.



Both Douglas Lima and Ilima-Lei Macfarlane continue to prove they are two of the most dominant fighters on the Bellator roster,” said Bellator President Scott Coker. “They made their Bellator debuts very early on in their careers, have climbed to the top of their respective divisions and have come to represent what this promotion is all about. As champions, both have taken on all challenges and have succeeded in every opportunity. I look forward to watching them continue their careers with us.”



Hailing from Goiania, Brazil and now fighting out of Atlanta, Georgia, the 32-year-old Lima most recently handled Rory MacDonald in a rematch – a Welterweight World Grand Prix final matchup that saw Lima leave as a world champion with a one-million-dollar prize. Since making his promotional debut in 2011, “The Phenom” has earned 14 mmeri, including a trio of world titles and 10 finishes, making the American Top Team-product one of the most dominant fighters in the 170-pound division. Na 26 nke ya 32 career victories coming by way of knockout or submission, including consecutive dominant finishes over Andrey Koreshkov na Michael “Venom” Page” in the first two rounds of the World Grand Prix tournament, Lima has recently made it clear that he now has title aspirations at middleweight.



Re-live Douglas Lima’s most recent championship victory here



Born and raised in Honolulu, the inaugural Bellator flyweight champ Macfarlane made her pro debut in 2015 with a KO victory that went viral and has not looked back since, while remaining undefeated in her career. With impressive victories over Valerie Letourneau na Veta Arteaga, Macfarlane was the focal point of Bellator’s debut in Hawaii last year and returned to Hawaii with a submission win over Kate Jackson a gara aga December. A proud graduate of Honolulu’s Punahou High School in 2009, Macfarlane later attended San Diego State University, where she would go on to earn her Master’s degree in liberal arts and science with a focus on indigenous issues – a subject she remains passionate about, recently launching “The Ilimanator Scholarship” for indigenous girls.



Re-live Ilima-Lei’s most recent championship victory here



Biko gaa na Bellator.com maka ozi ndị ọzọ.



About Bellator:

Bellator is a leading global mixed martial arts and kickboxing promotion featuring many of the best athletes in the world. N'okpuru nduzi nke vetiran agha ume Scott Coker, Bellator events take place in major cities worldwide and can be seen on television in over 160 countries to an available audience of over one billion people. Na United States, Bellator can be seen on both Paramount Network and DAZN, the world’s first truly dedicated LIVE sports streaming service. Bellator is comprised of an executive team that includes top industry professionals in television production, ndụ omume orchestration, fighter mmepe / mmekọahụ, ebe mgbakọ ị nweta, nkwado e kere eke / mmepe, mba ikikere, ahịa, mgbasa ozi, bu na ọrụ mmekọahụ. Bellator is based in Hollywood, Calif. and owned by entertainment giant ViacomCBS, n'ụlọ ka ụwa Premiya ntụrụndụ ụdị na jikọọ na kiriri site gbara ọkpụrụkpụ ọdịnaya gafee telivishọn, emegharị, online na mobile nyiwe.

BERMUDEZ VICTORIOUS, ERICKSON PUTS ON A CLINIC AS NEF BRINGS A SYMPHONY OF DESTRUCTION TO THE MERRILL AUDITORIUM STAGE

Ozugbo tọhapụ: Portland, Maine (February 10, 2020) – More than 2000 braved frigid temperatures on Saturday night as New England Fights (NEF) brought its most recent mixed-martial-arts (Emmanuel) event to the stage of Merrill Auditorium in Portland. 22 fights took place under the shadow of the world-famous 1911 Kotzschmar Memorial Organ. It was NEF’s debut at the century-old venue, and the event opened the venerable fight promotion’s ninth season of MMA competition.

Ke isi omume nke mgbede, UFC vetiranManny “The Bermudez Triangle” Bermudez(15-2) osụkBruce "Mara Boy" Boyington (19-12) with a guillotine choke in the first round. The bout was originally scheduled to be contested for the NEF Professional Lightweight Title, but with Bermudez missing championship weight, he was not eligible to win the belt. The title currently remains vacant.

Bermudez’s victory capped a perfect night for the South Shore Sportfighting team of Rockland, Massachusetts. Teammates Darryl Andrews (1-0) na Tim Birkenhead (2-0) were both successful in their respective fights to lift their gym to a 3-0 record on the event.

Also going 3-0 on the evening was the team of Evolution Athletix based in Saco, Maine.Teddy Politis (1-0), Ben Grady (1-0), naTyler Smythe (1-0) all stopped their opponents within the first minute of the first round of their respective fights to win their respective amateur debuts.

The biggest story of the night, undoubtedly, came in the co-main event as longtime NEF veteranJesse “The Viking” Erickson(10-8) akaJosh “Hook On” Harvey(7-1-1) the first loss of his professional career. Erickson, who represents both Central Maine Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Recon Fitness, put on a brilliant jiu-jitsu clinic that will be remembered for years to come. Trapped against the cage by Harvey early-on in the first round, Erickson pulled guard and transitioned through a chain of submissions before finally settling in with an armbar to force the tapout, sending the Portland crowd into an absolute frenzy.

In a wild heavyweight slugfest that also took place on the professional portion of the cardRas “Rasquatch” Hylton (5-3) downedBrad Lee(0-1) via technical knockout in the second round. After several minutes of feeling each other out, the pair exchanged in a back-and-forth slobber-knocker in the closing moments of the first round. A little over a minute into the second round, the referee called a halt to the action after several unanswered strikes from the 6’6” Hylton.

Hylton’s First Class MMA teammateJacob Deppmeyer(1-0) had a successful pro debut, ndikanCarl Langston(0-5) via first-round technical knockout. Deppmeyer, trapped Langston in a reverse triangle and rained down a series of unanswered elbows, giving the referee no option but to stop the bout at that point.

On the amateur card, top prospectMike Bezanson (5-0) of Kaze Dojo remained undefeated with a technical knockout win overGreg Ishihara(2-2) ke akpa gburugburu.

Also remaining undefeated in the amateur ranks wereNate “The Mule” White(5-0) naCaleb “Dr. Feelgood” Austin (4-0), both fighting out of CMBJJ, who finished their respective opponents in the first round.

Another CMBJJ productGarry Carr (3-1), broke his own record for a second consecutive time when he became, yet again, the oldest athlete to win a fight in the NEF cage. At 58-years-young, Carr took a unanimous decision victory over 23-year-old Austin Hamilton (0-2) in a catchweight amateur fight.

NEF also announced that its next event would see the promotion return to the campus of UMaine Orono at the Collins Center for the Arts on April 18 with “NEF 43: Rampage.” Already confirmed for the eventZac “Rocky” Richard(6-2-1) will defend the NEF Amateur Lightweight Title againstDevin Corson(3-1), mgbeChelsea Tucker(3-3) is scheduled to meet Oregon’sCaree Hill(6-2) for the NEF Amateur Women’s Flyweight Championship, and Caleb Austin facesJames Ploss (1-2) in a long-awaited rematch of their controversial 2017 ọgwụgwụ.

The full “NEF 42” results from Portland, Maine:

Ọkachamara

Manny Bermudez def. Bruce Boyington via tap to guillotine, gburugburu 1

Jesse Erickson def. Josh Harvey via tap to armbar, gburugburu 1

Ras Hylton def. Brad Lee via technical knockout, gburugburu 2

Chris Caterino def. Nate Boucher via tap to armbar, gburugburu 1

Jacob Deppmeyer def. Carl Langston via technical knockout, gburugburu 1

Na-amu amu

Tim Birkenhead def. Mike Murray via tap to kneebar, gburugburu 2

Joe Howard def. Justin Kangas via KO, gburugburu 1

Mike Bezanson def. Greg Ishihara via technical knockout, gburugburu 1

Felipe Gunter def. Hannon Sanford via unanimous decision

Nate White def. Brian Cosco via technical knockout, gburugburu 1

Darryl Andrews def. Titus Pannell via unanimous decision

Jason Landry def. Dustin Carrier via technical knockout, gburugburu 2

Tyler Smythe def. Clifford Redman via technical submission, gburugburu 1

Garry Carr def. Austin Hamilton via unanimous decision

Ryan Fogg def. Giuliano Rossi via doctor stoppage, gburugburu 2

Ben Grady def. Jon Assam via KO, gburugburu 1

Tim Bergeron def. Henry Jeffs via technical knockout, gburugburu 1

Caleb Austin def. Dillon Henry via tap to rear-naked choke, gburugburu 1

Dylan Williams def. Wyatt Sochin via split decision

Randall Hathorn def. Tim Murray via technical knockout, gburugburu 1

Henry Clark def. Taylor Bartlett via technical submission, gburugburu 1

Teddy Politis def. Kevin Lamay via tap to Kimura, gburugburu 1

New England alụkarị ọgụ’ next mixed-martial-arts event, “NEF 43: Rampage,” will take place on Saturday, April 18, 2020, at the Collins Center for the Arts at UMaine Orono. Tickets will be on sale this week atwww.CollinsCenterfortheArts.com.  

Banyere New England alụkarị ọgụ

New England alụkarị ọgụ ("NEF") bụ a ọgụ ihe n'ọkwá ụlọ ọrụ. NEF’s mission is to create the highest quality events for fighters and fans alike. NEF Executive otu nwere ọtụtụ ahụmahụ na ọgụ egwuregwu management, ihe mmepụta, media mmekọahụ, ahịa, na iwu na mgbasa ozi.

BELLATOR MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPION RAFAEL LOVATO JR. RELINQUISHES TITLE DUE TO ONGOING MEDICAL ISSUES

LOS ANGELES – Following the medical complications that were publicly disclosed by Rafael Lovato Jr. (10-0) late last month, the Bellator middleweight champion has decided to relinquish his 185-lb world title. The unbeaten Lovato Jr. defeated former champ Gegard Mousasi to win the title at Bellator 223 in London on June 22, 2019.



“My journey with my team and family to become the Bellator middleweight world champion was incredible and something I will cherish forever,” said Lovato Jr. “I dreamed of having a long reign as champion, but sometimes life has another plan. Bellator has been very supportive during this difficult process, a situation that has never really happened before in our sport. I know the division must move on while I am on the sidelines and I wish everyone great fights on their way to that belt. I will be working to come back if it is possible – and if not, life will continue to be amazing for me and I look forward to working with Bellator in another fashion.”



“This has been an incredibly challenging time for Lovato Jr., his team and his family at home,” said Bellator President Scott Coker. “He is a true warrior of the sport and I cannot say enough about him for making such a difficult decision. His health is the priority for us and we will continue to work with him on addressing the next steps in his career.”



Bellator will announce plans for the vacant middleweight title in the coming days.



Biko gaa na Bellator.com maka ozi ndị ọzọ.

25TH BOUT ADDED TO NEF 42 Ọgụ kadị; CATERINO STEPS IN TO FACE BOUCHER

Ozugbo tọhapụ: Portland, Maine (January 27, 2020) – New England alụkarị ọgụ (NEF) will hold its next mixed-martial-arts (Emmanuel) omume, “NEF 42: Symphony of Destruction,” na satọde, February 8, 2020, at Merrill Auditorium in Portland. Last Friday, NEF announced the full fight card for the event with 24 bouts scheduled to take place. Earlier today, the fight promotion confirmed a 25nke fight for the card.Nate “Backpack” Boucher(0-0) ga-Chris Caterino (3-3) at a catchweight of 140 pound.

Boucher was originally scheduled to face Norman Fox (0-1) in his pro debut. Fox, after initially calling out Boucher on social media to accept a fight with him in the professional ranks, pulled out of the contest in the days leading up to the fight card announcement. Boucher, who most recently held the NEF Amateur Flyweight Championship with an amateur record of 6-3, was determined to make his pro debut at “NEF 42” despite the Fox pullout. NEF co-owner and matchmaker Matt Peterson was able to quickly confirm a replacement opponent in the form of Caterino.

“I was incredibly disappointed when Norman pulled out against me—especially considering all the smack he talked to get the fight in the first place—but what a relief that I’ll still be able to be part of such a groundbreaking, historic NEF card,” said Boucher. “I’m so grateful that I get to make my pro debut in such a beautiful venue as the Merrill Auditorium. Respect to Chris for stepping up on short notice to take this bout. I will be doubling down in my preparation efforts during the next two weeks to make a statement on February 8th and leave no doubts that I belong in the pro ranks with the best in the region.”

Chris Caterino is a longtime veteran of the New England MMA scene, having made his amateur debut in 2010. Although he is taking the fight on short notice, Caterino has been very active of late and will, enweghị mgbagha ọ bụla, be prepared for Boucher. One week ago, Caterino submitted Joey Sanchez (0-4) in the first round of a bout in New Hampshire. It was his third fight in a nine-month stretch. Caterino represents Gate City MMA of Nashua, New Hampshire where he trains with New England MMA legend Nuri Shakir (18-21).

“I’m excited to make my NEF debut,” said Caterino. “I look forward to a great night and plan on getting the ‘W.’”

New England alụkarị ọgụ’ next mixed-martial-arts event, “NEF 42: Symphony of Destruction,” will take place on Saturday, February 8, 2020, at Merrill Auditorium in Portland, Maine. Tiketi ndị na ere ugbu a, nawww.PortTix.com.

Banyere New England alụkarị ọgụ

New England alụkarị ọgụ ("NEF") bụ a ọgụ ihe n'ọkwá ụlọ ọrụ. NEF’s mission is to create the highest quality events for fighters and fans alike. NEF Executive otu nwere ọtụtụ ahụmahụ na ọgụ egwuregwu management, ihe mmepụta, media mmekọahụ, ahịa, na iwu na mgbasa ozi.

HEAVYWEIGHT FIGHTS AND HARDCORE MUSIC ALL IN A WEEKEND’S WORK FOR BRAD LEE

Ozugbo tọhapụ: Portland, Maine (January 22, 2020)

Friday, February 7 and Saturday, February 8 promise to be a heavyweight weekend in Portland, Maine for Brad Lee.

On the opening night, Lee will put his lungs to the test as lead vocalist for a hardcore band known as Instigate, which will hold a CD release party in conjunction with its performance at Geno’s Rock Club.

Then he’ll exchange the microphone for a pair of gloves and attempt to play a two-fisted tune on Ras Hylton in the New England Fights mixed martial arts cage.

Lee will make his MMA debut against the veteran Ras “Rasquatch” “The Jamaican Shamrock” Hylton (4-3) in a professional bout at NEF 42: “Symphony of Destruction” inside another renowned concert venue, Merrill Auditorium.

“I absolutely want to make a living out of it,” Lee said of his immediate jump to the pro ranks after a diverse combat sports upbringing. “I feel that I’m fairly marketable. I think I can make a bit of a splash in this corner of the world. I would say I have humble confidence.”

He’s more understated about the musical exploits. Lee characterizes that side of his performance artistry as the typical garage band with small dreams.

“It’s been a huge part of my life. If you’re a big kid with a skateboard, it’s probably going to lead to music and fighting eventually,"Lee kwuru.

“But it’s definitely not about the money,” he added. “It’s literally a band of friends doing it to hang out with our other friends on the weekend. We couldn’t (care less) about stadiums. We’re not Metallica. It’s just a hobby. It’s an outlet for me to get out the (stuff) that’s in my head. It’s just a hobby.”

In the same way that new fighters are required to earn their way upward on fight posters, Lee, who said he “dabbles” with guitar, sounds most excited about the New England-based bands with whom Instigate gets to share the stage.

“Death Before Dishonor and Cruel Hand, if you know anything about that scene, those are big names,"Lee kwuru. “It would have been a great show regardless of whether we were there or not.”

Turning pro in the NEF hexagon without any amateur background isn’t the typical journey, but Lee saw it as the wisest path after a frustrating year of trying to locate willing opponents.

Most potential foes, o kwuru, were intimidated by his 6-foot-4 frame and what was then a walking-around weight of more than 300 pound. The heavyweight limit is 265.

“I had five different opponents with three different promotions, including NEF, cancel on me. I had fights where the opponent took the fight with me, backed out, and then took a heavyweight fight on the same card,"Lee kwuru. “I don’t want to mention names, but one guy in Rascircle (did that). I just got fed up and annoyed with guys holding back my career.”

Lee said he eventually contacted NEF co-owner and matchmaker Matt Peterson to inquire about the pro landscape within his promotion.

Hylton, who casts a similarly imposing shadow at 6-6, is coming off a sequence of two losses in his past three appearances, including a knockout loss to Chris Sarro – another fighter making his pro debut – last September.

“Matt put Ras out there. I watched the videos and talked to my coaches and went ahead with it,"Lee kwuru. “He’s coming off two hard fights. He seems like a respectful guy. I’m sure some people in his camp think I’m a (jerk). The thing about me in the social media world is I only release what I want people to see. People can talk (crap) all they want.”

In one of his videos, which Lee entitled, “What Makes a Pro a Pro?,” he breaks down what he considers the misconception that an amateur career is a necessity for MMA success.

“Look at Jon Jones. Ugbu a, I’m not saying I’m Jon Jones, but he became a world champion without any (karat) belts at all,"Lee kwuru. “So what is it? Is it that he can knock guys out? I’ve knocked out a bunch of guys in my life. Is it his cardio? My cardio is pretty good.

“You know, I just got tired of waiting around for other people. When I was getting ready to fight about a year ago, I realize I was right at the top of the weight class, but it’s like people were scared. Echere m, if you don’t want to be a heavyweight then get down to 205 or whatever. I’m a lot lighter and in better shape now. People probably would have been better off fighting me last year.”

Boxing and judo are the primary skills in Lee’s tool kit, although he describes himself as a voracious cross-trainer.

“I think the MMA world sleeps on boxing quite a bit,"Lee kwuru. “Muay Thai seems to be the thing, but the Muay Thai guys get their faces hit a lot. But I train anything and everything. I’ll do Tai chi in a park with somebody if it helps me get better, I don’t care.”

Lee, 29, is based out of Paladin Combat Sports in Clinton, Massachusetts, where he said he will stack up his schedule and intensity level against almost anyone his size in the combat sports game.

“Win or lose, I’ll be back in the gym on Monday. Compared to what I’ve seen from most UFC and Bellator heavyweights, I work out harder than most of them,"Lee kwuru. “I was 316 pounds less than a year ago. If anyone wants to check me on my motivation or dedication, tell them to check the scale (at weigh-ins) on February 7.”

Mgbe nke ahụ mechara, fans are invited to follow Lee down the street to Geno’s and listen to him pursue his other passion the night before he makes his debut in the NEF cage.

New England alụkarị ọgụ’ next mixed-martial-arts event, “NEF 42: Symphony of Destruction,” will take place on Saturday, February 8, 2020, at Merrill Auditorium in Portland, Maine. Tiketi ndị na ere ugbu a, nawww.PortTix.com.

Banyere New England alụkarị ọgụ

New England alụkarị ọgụ ("NEF") bụ a ọgụ ihe n'ọkwá ụlọ ọrụ. NEF’s mission is to create the highest quality events for fighters and fans alike. NEF Executive otu nwere ọtụtụ ahụmahụ na ọgụ egwuregwu management, ihe mmepụta, media mmekọahụ, ahịa, na iwu na mgbasa ozi.

HOWARD AND KANGAS SCHEDULED FOR LIGHTWEIGHT TUSSLE AT NEF 42

Ozugbo tọhapụ: Portland, Maine (January 20, 2020) - New England alụkarị ọgụ (NEF) will hold its next mixed-martial-arts (Emmanuel) omume, “NEF 42: Symphony of Destruction,” na satọde, February 8, 2020, at Merrill Auditorium in Portland. Earlier today, NEF announced the addition of an amateur lightweight bout to the fight card.Joe Howard(2-3) ga-Justin Kangas(0-2) at a fight weight of 155 pound.

Joe Howard is coming off a win over Jesse Fitzsimmons (0-2) at “NEF 41” last November. The fight was stopped by the referee on advice from the ringside physician between the first and second rounds when a cut on Fitzsimmons’ forehead could not be closed. It marked the end of a three-fight losing streak for Howard. Howard currently represents Central Maine Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu based in Lewiston, Maine, and has recently moved back to his home state of Georgia.

“I’m not in this for fortune and fame—this is business and I want that gold and I’ll keep mining the NEF until I get it,” exclaimed Howard. “Thank you to Justin for taking this fight. I applaud Justin—I’ve been on a two-fight losing streak and I know what that feels like, so I know that he’s going to be a real challenge. But I’m the principal of this cage, and I’m about to school his ass with Southern class. Pack your lunch pail—New England is about to learn who the peach is.”

As Howard alluded to, Justin Kangas is by day the principal of Warren Community School in Warren, Maine. Kangas has competed twice previously in the NEF cage, losing to Nate White (4-0) and Nathaniel Grimard (1-0) respectively. He seeks his first win as an amateur at “NEF 42.” Kangas represents First Class MMA of Brunswick, Maine.

I am excited to have another opportunity to fight for NEF and am grateful to Joe for taking the fight,” said Kangas.  “Joe is a warrior and it will undoubtedly be a tough bout for sure. I look forward to the challenge and opportunity in front of me.

New England alụkarị ọgụ’ next mixed-martial-arts event, “NEF 42: Symphony of Destruction,” will take place on Saturday, February 8, 2020, at Merrill Auditorium in Portland, Maine. Tiketi ndị na ere ugbu a, nawww.PortTix.com.

Banyere New England alụkarị ọgụ

New England alụkarị ọgụ ("NEF") bụ a ọgụ ihe n'ọkwá ụlọ ọrụ. NEF’s mission is to create the highest quality events for fighters and fans alike. NEF Executive otu nwere ọtụtụ ahụmahụ na ọgụ egwuregwu management, ihe mmepụta, media mmekọahụ, ahịa, na iwu na mgbasa ozi.

GRISPI OUT, BERMUDEZ IN TO FACE BOYINGTON FOR LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE AT NEF 42

Ozugbo tọhapụ: Portland, Maine (January 19, 2020) - New England alụkarị ọgụ (NEF) will hold its next mixed-martial-arts (Emmanuel) omume, “NEF 42: Symphony of Destruction,” na satọde, February 8, 2020, at Merrill Auditorium in Portland. Earlier today, NEF announced a change to one-half of the card’s main event.Manny “The Bermudez Triangle” Bermudez(14-2) ga-enwe ugbu aBruce "Mara Boy" Boyington(17-11) for the vacant NEF Professional Lightweight Championship in the night’s headline fight.

Bermudez stepped in to replace his teammate and training partner Josh Grispi (14-5) who was originally scheduled to meet Boyington. Grispi was forced to bow out of the main event due to legal complications unforeseen at the time of the bout’s signing. Mere hours after losing Grispi, NEF executives were notified that Bermudez would accept the fight with Boyington.

Like Grispi, Bermudez is a veteran of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) – the pinnacle of the sport. He put together a record of 3-2 while competing in the promotion before being released this past October. All three of Bermudez’s wins in the UFC came by way of submission. The fight with Boyington will be Bermudez’s first since his release.

“I’m looking forward to coming up to Bruce’s home turf and showing where it is I belong on the regional circuit,” stated Bermudez.  “I have experience at various levels in the sport and Bruce does too, so it’ll be interesting to see how the matchup unfolds on fight night.”

Bruce Boyington has never been one to back down from a challenge. The Taekwondo black belt and US Marine Corp veteran has made a career of fighting the “best of the best” whether it be in the NEF cage, at Madison Square Garden fighting for the World Series of Fighting (WSOF) on national television, or halfway across the world competing on a global event in Russia. Boyington, a member of Titan Athletics based in Brewer, Maine, looks to capture the lightweight strap for the second time on February 8.

There is no easy fight and this makes for the same scenarioa main event worthy of any card,” said Boyington.  “Two high caliber fightersthat’s the kind of fight I like to be in.

Adding to the high-caliber aspect of the fight, two streaks held by Boyington and Bermudez respectively make the fight even that much more intriguing. Boyington has never lost a title fight. He is a perfect 7-0 when a championship strap is on the line. In the same breadth, Bermudez has never lost a regional fight as a professional. He was a perfect 11-0 on the regional scene prior to signing with the UFC. On February 8, someone’s “0” will have to go.

“I first met Manny Bermudez 11-years ago one random weekend while visiting his home gym, South Short Sportfighting,” noted NEF co-owner and matchmaker Matt Peterson.  “He was a young, gangling teenager at the time that was giving fits on the floor to men two and three times his age. Manny made the gym his second home and the rest, dị ka ha na-ekwu, is history—Manny went on to have a great run in the UFC. When Josh Grispi was forced to pull out of his fight with Bruce, Bruce gave me one directive for a replacement opponent—‘make sure they are good,’ he said. Bruce always wants to face the best and that’s what we were able to bring him in Bermudez. This is a main event fit for a symphony.”

New England alụkarị ọgụ’ next mixed-martial-arts event, “NEF 42: Symphony of Destruction,” will take place on Saturday, February 8, 2020, at Merrill Auditorium in Portland, Maine. Tiketi ndị na ere ugbu a, nawww.PortTix.com.

Banyere New England alụkarị ọgụ

New England alụkarị ọgụ ("NEF") bụ a ọgụ ihe n'ọkwá ụlọ ọrụ. NEF’s mission is to create the highest quality events for fighters and fans alike. NEF Executive otu nwere ọtụtụ ahụmahụ na ọgụ egwuregwu management, ihe mmepụta, media mmekọahụ, ahịa, na iwu na mgbasa ozi.