Wednesday, July 16, 2008 - Los Angeles, California
Written by: Rebecca Lee


Recap of the Affliction Banned Pre-Fight Press Conference

Raise your hand if the first rumor of Affliction Clothing putting on its own mixed martial arts show made you chuckle …or say “Are you kidding?” Relax. You were not alone. But standing in a ballroom at the Hyatt Regency in Los Angeles, California, seventeen (17) of the show’s 22 scheduled fighters stepped up, ready to fight, leaving little doubt that Affliction Banned will leave its mark on the history of MMA.

Affliction Entertainment’s VP Tom Atencio, in association with M-1, took on the role of matchmaker for all eleven (11) bouts, seven (7) of which will broadcast live. Those matchups include veteran legends in the sport as well as young, talented fighters well-acquainted with the spotlight. No rookies, no amateurs…only world class fighters on a global stage.

Just 2 months ago, I sat at the first Affliction Banned press conference, wondering about the potential success of the show. As it turns out, commercial time for the Fox Sports Net presentation of the card is completely sold out. In addition, over 280 international media outlets submitted requests to cover the event, and the Honda Center (which is nearly sold out) has cleared $2 million in ticket sales. Not bad for a first time organization on the rise. The PPV buys, both commercially and residentially, cannot be accurately counted until after the event on Saturday, but the interest is worldwide and could bring in bigger numbers than expected. According to M-1’s Joost Raimond, interest extends to Russia and Asia, especially Korea and Japan.

Here at home in the states, Fox Sports Net has scheduled one full hour of Affliction Live beginning at 5pm Pacific (8pm Eastern) featuring Aleksander Emelianenko vs Paul Buentello and Terry Martin vs. Vitor Belfort. The live cable broadcast will be immediately followed by the PPV event Affliction Banned beginning at 6pm Pacific (9pm Eastern).

Conference sound bytes:

Terry Martin: “…I guarantee you guys that you will see a fight that you will be talking about years on down the line.”

Vitor Belfort: “…It’s a pleasure to be fighting in my hometown – LA…it’s phenomenal to be fighting on a card like that and to have an opportunity, too… and a new challenge of fighting at 185…I’m looking forward and really excited to do it.”

Aleksander Emelianenko (via translator): “…I’d like to thank my opponent and wish him the best of luck. I know together that we’ll show everyone a great technical and beautiful fight.”

Paul Buentello: “…I can guarantee, you know, I’m not going for a takedown. It’ll be a war. It’ll be a great fight. Don’t blink, guys.”

Matt Lindland: “…Last time I fought was April of last year and I’m giddy right now I’m so excited to get in there and fight.” and with a little humor he continued, “I know a lot of you don’t know about Fabio here, but I know he’s really tough because he grew up with that name. He probably got picked on a lot at school. He’s fought his whole life. And so I really appreciate him stepping up and taking this fight. I’ll put on a good show and suplex him on his head Saturday night.”

Edwin Dewees: “…I think this is a historic card and I’m really pleased to be a part of it. Actually I think I’m the youngest guy here but I have more fights than anybody. So I’ve been all around the world and this is a really great show and I just happy to be part of it. So thank you, guys, very much.”

Antonio Rogerio Nogueira: “I want to say thank you for the guys from Affliction to give me the opportunity to be here to show all my friends from America finally I’m gonna fight here…”

Renato Sobral: “…like with your brother, you hope that he’s doing good, but you gonna see us probably beat each other. That’s pretty fun…”

Mike Whitehead: “…I know you guys see me two months ago, 60 pounds bigger. It just comes down to I may not be the best stand-up guy or may not be the best Greco guy or grappling guy, but I do know one thing…and that’s how to work hard. This fight between me and Babalu that we are getting ready for is definitely gonna be a big pile of smoke and we'll see who’s still standing…”

Josh Barnett (the class clown): “…I gotta thank Affliction, they should be happy to have me…The thing is though they put us a little too low, unfortunately, on the card so, the rest of you guys – we are stealing the show. I hope you guys stay for the rest of it, ‘cause there’s a great amount of fights. But I don’t blame you, after we’ve been on, it’s gonna be hard to compare…”

Ben Rothwell: “…as far as Josh thinking that he’s gonna steal (the show) and no one’s interested in our fights, we all know, it’s the last two fights you come to see and Arlovski and I aren’t gonna disappoint…”

Tim Sylvia: “…the WAMMA belt on the line, that obviously is a big thing. It’s the first time we unify a true champion; you know, it’s gonna recognize a true champion…all the other belts, all these other organizations are looking at this belt as being the #1 guy.”

And Tim poking fun back at Josh: “…after you get your popcorn, your beers, your drinks with Pedro and Josh fighting,…come back for the main event, alright?”



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FABIO “Negao” NASCIMENTO
Team Oyama/Lotus Club
San Paulo, Brazil
8 – 3 (4 KOs, 2 Submissions)


LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS – PPV

RENATO “Babalu” SOBRAL
Former UFC Light Heavyweight Title Challenger
Gracie Barra Combat Team
Costa Mesa, California via Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
29 – 7 (2 KOs, 16 Submissions)

VS.

MIKE WHITEHEAD
3-Time All-America Wrestler
Xtreme Couture
Salt Lake City, Utah
20 – 5 (5 KOs, 10 Submissions)

“Affliction Live” – The UNDERCARD
Live on FSN (Fox Sports Net) at 8 pm/ET and 5 pm/PT
Saturday, July 19, 2008, from Anaheim, California


HEAVYWEIGHTS – FSN (FOX SPORTS NET)

ALEKSANDER "The Grim Reaper" EMELIANENKO
Red Devil Sports Club
St. Petersburg, Russia
13-3 (7 KOs, 4 Submissions)

VS.

PAUL “The Headhunter” BUENTELLO
American Kickboxing Academy
Amarillo, Texas
25-10 (16 KOs, 9 Submissions)


HEAVYWEIGHTS – FSN (FOX SPORTS NET)

ANTONIO ROGERIO “Minotoro” NOGUEIRA
Brazilian Top Team
Vitoria da Conquista, Brazil
13-3 (2 KOs, 5 Submissions)

VS.

EDWIN “Babyface” DEWEES*
Lion’s Den
Phoenix, Arizona
35-12-0 (3 TKOs, 28 Submissions);1 NC


LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS - SWING FIGHT “May not be broadcast”

TERRY MARTIN
Chicago, Illinois
16-4 (10 KOs, 5 Submissions)

VS.

VITOR “The Phenom” BELFORT
Curitiba, Brazil
16-8 (10 KOs, 2 Submissions)


LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS - SWING FIGHT “May not be broadcast”

JUSTIN LEVENS
CSW
Laguna Niguel, California
9-8 (7 KOs, 2 Submissions)

VS.

RAY LIZAMA
San Diego, CA
5-5 (3 KOs, 2 Submissions)


WELTERWEIGHTS - SWING FIGHT “May not be broadcast”

MIKE “Quicksand” PYLE
Xtreme Couture
Las Vegas, Nevada
15-5-1 (2 KOs, 13 Submissions)

VS.

JJ AMBROSE
Bodyshop Fitness Team
Lakewood, California
9-1 (2 KOs, 4 Submissions)

LIGHTWEIGHTS - SWING FIGHT “May not be broadcast”

SAVANT YOUNG
Bodyshop Fitness Team
Lakewood, California
9-7 (2 KOs, 4 Submissions)

VS.

MARK “The Machine” HOMINICK
Team Thompkins
Ontario, Canada
15-8 (7 KOs, 5 Submissions)


(ALL FIGHTS SUBJECT TO CHANGE)

* Edwin Dewees replaces Vernon "Tiger" White

Tickets for “Affliction Banned” range between $50.00 and $1,000.00, and are on sale at the Honda Center Box Office and also online at Ticketmaster.com.

Visit my blog for more on AFFLICTION BANNED:

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Thursday, July 3, 2008 - via Press Release
Blogged by: Rebecca Lee


Retired Referee and MMA Legend “Big” John McCarthy Joins Affliction as Color Commentator

SIGNAL HILL, California (July 3, 2008) – Former MMA referee “Big” John McCarthy may have retired from working in the UFC® Octagon but he will be a color commentator for the July 19th “Affliction Banned” pay-per-view event, featuring the WAMMA heavyweight championship fight between the most lethal MMA heavyweight of all-time, Russian M1 superstar legend Fedor “The Last Emperor” Emelianenko (27-1), and former UFC heavyweight champion Tim “The Maine-iac” Sylvia (24-4), live from Honda Center in Anaheim, California.

A black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, McCarthy refereed 535 fights during his 14 years as an MMA referee, and he operates an MMA school in Valencia, California. He started refereeing in the UFC’s second show in 1994 and retired this past December. An MMA ambassador all over the world, “Big” John developed into being as much a part of the UFC as the fighters that entered the Octagon. Now, though, he is a member of Team Affliction.


Visit my blog for more on AFFLICTION BANNED:

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Monday, June 30, 2008 - via Press Release
Blogged by: Rebecca Lee


ANDREI “The Pitbull” ARLOVSKI vs. “Big” BEN ROTHWELL

SIGNAL HILL, California (June 30, 2008) – Former UFC® Heavyweight Champion Andrei Arlovski is a 6’ 4”, 240-pound former cop from Belarus with dangerous stand up skills, a brutal right punch, and deft mobility and striking accuracy. Arlovski tears into his opponents, often dealing out devastating damage before the other fighter even has time to recover. Considered one of the top ten ranked heavyweight fighters in the world, “The Pitbull” is one of the world’s most complete MMA fighters, as well as one of its most fearsome. This dreaded competitor gets high marks in grappling ability and massive striking power. He has won notable victories over Tim Sylvia, Paul Buentello, Vladimir Matyushenko, Fabricio Werdum and Wesley “Cabbage” Correira, among others. For his upcoming fight with Rothwell, Arlovski has been training with legendary boxing trainer Freddie Roach, who has trained many boxing champions such as Mike Tyson, Oscar De La Hoya, Bernard Hopkins and Manny Pacquiao. Arlovski’s hard work combined with sheer talent and strong mental preparedness give his opponents plenty to worry about in the ring.

Arlovski will face-off with former IFL® heavyweight standout Ben Rothwell, who is riding an impressive 13-fight winning streak and is currently ranked as the number 10 best heavyweight fighter in the world. At 6'5" and 265 pounds, this gritty, determined Wisconsin native is a force to reckon with in the ring—just ask anyone who has squared off against him. A young fighter full of zest and energy and a personality as big as his frame, Rothwell is one of the most entertaining athletes in MMA—Rothwell never fails to deliver. And he has an impeccable record, rattling off 11 knockouts among his first 17 MMA victories with a flair that crowds eat up. A wicked combination of aggression, power and style drives Rothwell’s numerous victories. The sheer force with which this giant strikes his opponents leads to the frequent knockouts he is famous for. But his brute strength is tempered by a good measure of agility, allowing him to inflict accurate and precise punishment. “Big” Ben’s fierce ring presence and heavy-handedness often has opponents voluntarily choosing to leave the ring to avoid serious injury.

The brawl between the ferocious “Pitbull” and giant “Big” Ben is sure to please sports fans hungry for a truly ballistic competition and a performance full of charisma. These two magnetic, world-class fighters always put on a great show. With their collective striking power and bigger-than-life personalities, these well-matched opponents combine powerful fighting techniques with a spark of showmanship that electrifies their audience. Both fighters are known for their tremendous hard-hitting styles and numerous victories. Their bouts often end in knockouts — explosive, expedient, and purely exciting. On July 19th in Anaheim, fans will bear witness to a dynamic exhibition of prowess, as these two crowd-pleasing and accomplished warriors deal out a gallon of pain for guts and glory for “Affliction Banned.”

“Affliction Banned,” headlined by the WAMMA heavyweight title bout between Russian superstar Fedor Emelianenko and Tim Sylvia, is stacked with so much world-class talent that it had to be separated into two live shows produced for broadcast. The night’s activities will kick off with “Affliction Live,” a one-hour, free live telecast on FSN (Fox Sports Net) starting at 5 PM Pacific (8 PM/ET) and setting the stage for “Affliction Banned” – five super fights on pay-per-view starting at 6 PM/PT (9 PM/ET) via iN DEMAND, TVN, Shaw Communications, Viewers Choice Canada, DirecTV, DISH Network, Bell ExpressVue and Star Choice in the United States and Canada for a suggested retail price of $39.95.

The heavy metal band Megadeth, led by frontman, guitarist, and songwriter Dave Mustaine, will be performing live at the event.

Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Written by: Rebecca Lee


LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – Banner Promotions and the Thomas & Mack Center at UNLV opens the doors to their first ever co-sponsored Boxing and Mixed Martial Arts event. UNLV Tickets offered event passes to anyone interested in the event - free of charge! Over 16,000 free tickets were given away to the public for the event.

The night began with four (4) boxing matches filmed live for ESPN’s Friday Night Fights. Then a quick change of the canvas and the action in the ring turned to MMA with five (5) bouts scheduled for three 5-minute rounds each.


ESPN Boxing Results:

Grzegorz Kielsa defeated Alvaro Morales by Unanimous Decision after four (4) rounds

Jonte Willis defeated Clarence Tillman by Unanimous Decision after four (4) rounds

Kevin Burnett defeated Horace Grant by Unanimous Decision after eight (8) rounds***

*** Burnett was knocked out just after the final bell but returned to his feet before the 10-count.

Main Event:

Friday Ahunanya defeated Alonzo Butler by Unanimous Decision after ten (10) rounds


All boxing bouts were Heavyweight Division.



Mixed Martial Arts Results:


Fight 1 – Brice Ritani-Coe vs. Rob Mitchell (265+ lbs – Super Heavyweights)

Round 1:

As the MMA portion of the night begins, Ritani-Coe and Mitchell circle each other, exchanging sporadic punches. Mitchell checks with lower leg kicks and Ritani-Coe lands a hard left hook waking up his opponent. As they continue to circle and trade, Ritani-Coe begins to use combinations keeping Mitchell at a distance. During an exchange, Mitchell grabs for the clench and delivers two knees to the body as Ritani-Coe answers with overhands and body shots. Ritani-Coe works to break free just as Mitchell lands another knee to the head. Circling again, the fighters trade several more shots before locking up against the ropes. Ritani-Coe works his way around the corner of the ring as Mitchell uses his body to keep his opponent on the ropes. Ritani-Coe is finally able to press Mitchell away just as Mitchell delivers two punches to the head. Ritani-Coe uses his left to make space and drops Mitchell with a hard right knee to his head. Ritani-Coe, in side mount, begins the ground and pound work to finish his opponent. After a submission attempt and an effort of Mitchell trying to get the fight back up, Ritani-Coe pins his opponent’s arm and continues to punch him in the head until the referee stops the bout. (Fight Video)

Brice Ritani-Coe (1 – 0) defeats Rob Mitchell (0 – 1) by TKO due to strikes at 4:33 of Round 1


Fight 2 – Kui Gonsalves-Kanoho vs. Ricky Johnson (145 lbs - Featherweights)

Round 1:

Johnson’s opening left kick is met with a straight right in the center of the ring. Gonsalves lands an overhand right and shoots driving Johnson back into the ropes. Landing another punch, Gonsalves swings Johnson to the canvas, takes sidemount, and continues to hammer Johnson’s face until Johnson spins on his back to replace guard. Gonsalves stands and punches from the guard; regaining sidemount, he continues his assault. Johnson finds room to get out and they return to their feet. Gonsalves and Johnson trade high kicks and punches; Gonsalves lands several shots in the exchange. Both fighters seem eager to keep the fight standing and continue to throw kicks, short combos, a flying knee, and several punches. Johnson seems rocked at one point as Gonsalves connects with a hard right and a knee; Gonsalves goes for the clench, but as they lock up, Johnson forces them to the canvas and lands on top in half guard. As the two fighters struggle for control, the referee must turn the fighters away from the edge of the ring. Gonsalves grips his hands over his opponent’s back as Johnson continues to work in punches. He uses his forearm to drive Gonsalves’ shoulders back to the canvas. The referee stands them up and Gonsalves settles into his punches while Johnson relies on his kicks until the horn signaling the end of the first round. (Round 1 - Fight Video)

Round 2:

Both fighters return to the center of the ring trading punches. Johnson shoots for a single leg sitting Gonsalves on the canvas; Gonsalves scoots backward toward the ropes avoiding Johnson’s attempts to gain top position. The fighters lock up as they get to their feet and exchange knees to the body. Getting off the ropes, they move back to the center of the ring and Johnson shoots for a double leg takedown. Gonsalves counters forcing Johnson to his back and lands several shots as he moves to sidemount. Johnson quickly spins to replace guard and Gonsalves gets back to his feet. Both fighters are beginning to slow their pace as Gonsalves lunges forward for a combo and Johnson shoots for the takedown. They fight for control with Gonsalves’ inside Johnson’s closed guard; Gonsalves posts several times landing punches from the guard and Johnson answers back with a few strikes from the bottom. The referee stands them up and Gonsalves opens up with a flurry of shots knocking Johnson to his knees. Johnson recovers quickly and the two engage in an even exchange of effective strikes, kicks, and knees, ending the round on their feet. (Round 2 -Fight Video)

Round 3:

Johnson seems to set the pace of this round as he opens with a superman punch and lands a couple of jabs and head kicks. Gonsalves finally fires back and, at one point, the action is stopped as Johnson is inadvertently kicked in the groin. The stand up exchange continues; Johnson takes some hard shots to the head but continues to press Gonsalves with kicks and jabs. Gonsalves catches Johnson with a short combo of heavy strikes against the ropes, but Johnson recovers throwing Gonsalves to the canvas. Back on his feet quickly, Gonsalves lands a few strikes and Johnson returns with punches and low kicks. With almost the entire round fought on their feet, both fighters seem to be relieved when the final horn sounds ending the fight. After 3 rounds, judges score 30 -27 for Gonsalves over Johnson; unfortunately, Gonsalves also takes home a broken nose. (Round 3 - Fight Video)

Kui Gonsalves-Kanoho (1 – 0) defeats Ricky Johnson (0 – 1) by Unanimous Decision at 5:00 of Round 3


Fight 3 – Dennis Davis vs. Dave Jansen (150 lbs - Lightweights)

Round 1:

Former TeamQuest teammates, Davis and Jansen begin the round with short punch exchanges. Sizing each other up, they lock in the clench but release their holds quickly. As Jansen lands a short combination and they lock up again; Davis goes for the takedown pushing Jansen to the corner. Jansen attempts a guillotine, but Davis gets his head out and they fight for hand position exchanging knees and body shots. The referee moves the action to the center where Jansen connects with an overhand right; Davis answers back with a hard left-right combo and they continue to trade strikes. As they lock up again, Davis throws his left arm over the back of Jansen’s head and jumps on him for a standing guillotine, but Jansen backs into the corner and drops to his knees to release the hold. Davis then tries to secure a head and arm choke in an attempt to finish his opponent; he jumps to the guard position, wrapping his legs around Jansen’s back, but Jansen remains calm and eventually squeezes his chin out. Jansen works to get in Davis’ half guard delivering punches from the top position as Davis rolls to escape. As Davis replaces guard, Jansen continues to hammer away and regains half guard position. Davis turns to escape; Jansen attempts to take his back. Davis tries again to replace guard after Jansen goes for a head and arm choke, but Jansen maintains the half guard and finishes the round with elbows and punches.(Round 1 - Fight Video)

Round 2:

Davis and Jansen return to the center of the ring trading punches and kicks; Jansen lands a right uppercut that knocks Davis to the mat. Jansen continues to land heavy hammer punches as he transitions from Davis’ guard to sidemount, to his back and back to half guard; Jansen remains in the top position taking advantage of his ground and pound as he works. As they get to their feet struggling for control, submission attempts by both fighters are unsuccessful. Davis catches Jansen with a knee that seems to buckle his knees, but Jansen fights back immediately returning to the ground game and regaining top position. The fighters get back on their feet and in the exchange, Jansen secures a takedown landing in Davis’ guard. Davis continually tries to sweep and makes attempts at a kimura but Jansen controls him with hammer punches and pass attempts. Davis finally gets the fight onto its feet again holding Jansen by the head and arm but they fall back to the canvas just as the round ends. (Round 2 - Fight Video)

Round 3:

After a short punch exchange, Jansen shoots for a takedown and gets caught in a guillotine. Davis closes guard and tries to sink the choke, but Jansen uses his hand control to release the grip. As Davis turns to escape, Jansen forces him back down and begins to throw punches from the guard. Davis turns his back to get out; Davis gets to his feet and Jansen suplexes Davis but gets caught under Davis as he tries to get up. Davis keeps pressure on Jansen’s back as Jansen scoots on his knees toward the corner. Davis tries to take a couple of shots hitting Jansen underneath the body but gets backed into the corner. Davis gets back to his knees over Jansen’s back striking at Jansen’s ribs and body. The round ends just as they get to their feet. Jansen remains undefeated as the judges score unanimously in his favor. (Round 3 - Fight Video)

Dave Jansen (4 – 0) defeats Dennis Davis (14 – 9) by Unanimous Decision at 5:00 of Round 3


Fight 4 – Kim Rose vs. Kimi Couture (125 lbs - Bantamweights)

Round 1:

Rose opens up with a solid punch to Couture’s jaw. As Couture falls to her knees wrapping herself around Rose’s body, Rose continues to throw short solid punches. Rose overhooks Couture's neck and as they roll Couture attempts to pin down Rose’s hands. Each time, Rose gets free, she continuously strikes Couture in the head and face, but Couture gains ground maintaining half guard and locking down Rose’s fists. Rose delivers blows to the body as Couture attempts to mount and uses shoulder pressure to keep Rose on her back. Rose attempts a guillotine but gives it up to replace guard and continues to punch Couture in the side of the head; Couture remains in the top position inside Rose’s closed guard; she postures up exchanging punches with Rose and using her forearms to make space. Rose is relentless from the bottom and continues to land strikes on Couture’s face. But Couture answers back varying her hammer punches inside and out. As Couture sits back, Rose tries to lock in an armbar but Couture gets to her feet breaking the hold. Couture throws punches from the standing position outside of Rose’s guard but has to avoid Rose’s upkicks. She circles Rose who is still lying on her back until the round ends. (Round 1 - Fight Video)

Round 2:

The round begins with both fighters trading punches, but it’s Rose who lands more strikes in the exchange. Couture backs away to stay out of range and when she finds an opening she clenches Rose delivering solid knees to the body. Rose sneaks in a couple of shots over the top but Couture secures a takedown landing on top in half guard and keeps her body close to her opponent’s shoulder to avoid Rose’s punches. Both fighters make it back to their feet and lock up against ropes. Couture uses her hip and overhook to throw Rose back to the canvas and takes side control as Rose’s continually taps at her head and face. Using her elbows and forearms, Rose makes enough space to get inside with short punches. Couture remains close on top and eventually ends up back in Rose’s guard. Rose continues punching face and body wherever she has room until the referee stands them up. Rose immediately opens up with a flurry of punches and when Couture locks up her arms, she resorts to foot stomps and knees. Couture gets the clench and delivers a couple of solid knees to the body. They separate and trade strikes again; Rose backs Couture into the ropes as Couture goes for the clench. (Round 2 - Fight Video)

Round 3:

Couture and Rose lock up almost immediately; Rose uses it to land overhand strikes while Couture uses the position to counter with knee after knee to the body. Rose uses her forearms again for space and they exchange elbows to the face. The standup battle continues with exchanges of knees, shots to the body, strikes to each other’s faces and clench work. Couture uses an outside trip to secure a takedown and maintains half guard. Rose attempts a guillotine and both struggle for control. Couture tries to pass to the full mount but the horn sounds signaling the end of the fight. Rose wins the bout by unanimous decision. Couture is taken to the hospital after the fight for a split lower jaw that it is believed she suffered in the opening round. (Round 3 - Fight Video)

Kim Rose (1 – 0) defeats Kimi Couture (0 – 1) by Unanimous Decision at 5:00 of Round 3


Fight 5 – John Alessio vs. Pete Spratt (170 lbs - Welterweights)

Round 1:

Alessio and Spratt meet in the center of the ring checking each other with low leg kicks and tapping hands. Alessio moves in with body shots pressing Spratt to the ropes; he makes several attempts to take Spratt down as they exchanging knees inside. Spratt avoids the attempts and presses Alessio back with hard knees to the thigh; Alessio tries to trip Spratt driving him back to the ropes. Alessio picks Spratt up and slams him to the canvas for the takedown but gets his head caught in Spratt’s guillotine. Unable to secure the choke, Spratt gets back to his feet as Alessio overhooks his head and arm. Spratt gets out and connects with a right hook and left kick before Alessio attempts another takedown. As they lock up in the corner, the referee steps in to restart the action. Spratt keeps Alessio outside with a couple of solid leg kicks and strikes. A big overhand right sends Alessio back into the ropes and he immediately shoots for another takedown. Spratt sprals against the ropes as Alessio tries to pull a single leg out from under him. Spratt avoids and they lock up, moving around the ring, struggling for the over/under control. It is Spratt who gets the trip takedown on Alessio and after a short scramble catches Alessio in his guard going for the armbar. The horn sounds ending the round.

Round 2:

At the start of this round, Alessio and Spratt do not touch gloves; Alessio goes right in for strikes but Spratt pushes him off and fakes a flying knee. Both fighters laugh off the attempt and they return to their standup exchange of punches and kicks. As they lock up in the clench, there is an exchange of knees and both fighters let go. Spratt returns to his kicks landing a high head kick and then a low hard one just as Alessio blocks with his forearm. Two more kicks from Spratt and they lock up again against the corner. Alessio trips Spratt into a takedown and takes his back as Spratt stands up against the ropes. With his feet wrap around Spratt, Alessio works his arms into position for the rear naked choke and secures it forcing Spratt to tap out at 2:07 of Round 2. Alessio suffers a broken forearm from an earlier blocked kick. (Fight Video)

John Alessio (23 – 11) defeats Pete Spratt (18 – 13) by Submission (Rear Naked Choke) at 2:07 of Round 2


All fight videos posted courtesy of the Thomas & Mack Center at UNLV.

Tuesday, June 17, 2008 - via Press Release
Blogged by: Rebecca Lee


SIGNAL HILL, California – 2000 U.S. Olympic Silver Medal Wrestler, Matt “The Law” Lindland would bring the same dogged determination that made him one of the world’s top professional mixed-martial-artists to a job in the Oregon House of Representatives.

The 38-year-old resident of Oregon City may be near the end of his fighting career, but his political life is just beginning. Recently winning the Republican nomination for House District 52 in Oregon, Lindland received 58-percent of the votes in the primary and has begun his campaign for the general election in the fall.

Oregon suffers from some of the worst unemployment rates in the country, and Lindland believes there’s a solution—if the state became competitive in the global marketplace, jobs would open in the private sector and the quality of life would improve for his prospective constituents. When it comes to building a world-class school system, the would-be Representative believes in shifting power from the bureaucracy to the teachers, parents and principals. Other key issues for him include changing land laws to make them fair to property owners, discontinuing government regulation of property values, and opposing tax increases. Lindland offers an alternative to the Democrats’ planned tax hikes, which he feels would be dangerous to an already shaky economy. Instead, he proposes that if tax revenues continue to decline, state government should spend less and not raise taxes for families already suffering from the present recession.

The Oregonian endorsed Lindland’s candidacy:

Lindland, who is making his first run for public office, is a conservative who thinks state government takes too much out of the pockets of families and generally interferes too much in their lives. After a slow start to his campaign, he has shown signs of the resolve and discipline that made him a medal-winning amateur wrestler. (Phyllis) Thiemann, while very pleasant and interested in some district issues, makes a less compelling argument for her election. We think district Republicans will be hungry for Lindland’s gift.

Lindland has been a fighter all of his life. In fact, he earned his nickname, “The Law,” in an unusual way. He lost the championship final of the U.S. Olympic Wrestling Team Trials to Keith Sieracki, who, according to Lindland, tripped him. Lindland appealed, based on rules prohibiting Greco-Roman wrestlers from using their legs for advantage and/or defensive/offensive moves. An arbitrator ordered a rematch and Lindland won. The U.S. Olympic Committee appealed in federal court to keep Sieracki on the team. A three-judge panel and federal district judge all decided in Lindland’s favor. A USOC request in the U.S. Supreme Court was denied. Lindland joined Team USA, captured an Olympic silver medal, and later took the nickname, “The Law.”

Lindland, who has won 20 of his 25 pro MMA fights, is matched against Fabio “Negao” Nascimento in one of five MMA bouts on “Affliction Banned,” July 19 at Honda Center in Anaheim, California.

“I’m so excited to be part of this show,” Lindland said. “I’m excited to be back in the gym and honored to be part of this great card. I love fighting in this arena more than in politics because I know my opponent in the ring. I look him right in the eyes.”

Wednesday, June 11, 2008 - via Press Release
Written by: Rebecca Lee


“Affliction Banned” – The MAIN CARD
Live on Pay-Per-View (PPV) at 9pm/ET and 6 pm/PT
Saturday, July 19, 2008, from Anaheim, California


MAIN EVENT – HEAVYWEIGHTS – PPV

FEDOR “The Last Emperor” EMELIANENKO
Former PRIDE Heavyweight Champion
Red Devil Sports Club
Stary Oskol, Russia
27 – 1 (6 KOs, 14 Submissions)

VS.

TIM “Maine-iac” SYLVIA
Former 2-Time UFC Heavyweight Champion
Miletich Martial Arts
Bettendorf, Iowa
24 – 4 (16 KOs, 2 Submissions)


HEAVYWEIGHTS – PPV

ANDREI “The Pitbull” ARLOVSKI
Former UFC Heavyweight Champion
Rickson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu
Chicago, Illinois by way of Belarus
12 – 5 (8 KOs, 3 Submissions)

VS.

“Big” BEN ROTHWELL
Former IFC Heavyweight Champion
Miletich Martial Arts
Kenosha, Wisconsin
29 – 5 (17 KOs, 10 Submissions)


HEAVYWEIGHTS – PPV

JOSH “The Babyfaced Assassin” BARNETT
Former UFC Heavyweight Champion
CSW
Seattle, Washington
22 – 5 (4 KOs, 14 Submissions)

VS.

PEDRO “The Rock" RIZZO
3-Time UFC Heavyweight Title Challenger
Ruas Vale Tudo
Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
16 – 7 (9 KOs, 4 Submissions)


MIDDLEWEIGHTS – PPV

MATT “The Law” LINDLAND
2000 Olympic Wrestling Silver Medalist
Team Quest
Oregon City, Oregon
20 – 5 (6 KOs, 8 Submissions)

VS.

FABIO “Negao” NASCIMENTO
Team Oyama/Lotus Club
San Paulo, Brazil
8 – 3 (4 KOs, 2 Submissions)


LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS – PPV

RENATO “Babalu” SOBRAL
Former UFC Light Heavyweight Title Challenger
Gracie Barra Combat Team
Costa Mesa, California via Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
29 – 7 (2 KOs, 16 Submissions)

VS.

MIKE WHITEHEAD
3-Time All-America Wrestler
Xtreme Couture
Salt Lake City, Utah
20 – 5 (5 KOs, 10 Submissions)

“Affliction Live” – The UNDERCARD
Live on FSN (Fox Sports Net) at 8 pm/ET and 5 pm/PT
Saturday, July 19, 2008, from Anaheim, California


HEAVYWEIGHTS – FSN (FOX SPORTS NET)

ALEKSANDER "The Grim Reaper" EMELIANENKO
Red Devil Sports Club
St. Petersburg, Russia
13-3 (7 KOs, 4 Submissions)

VS.

PAUL “The Headhunter” BUENTELLO
American Kickboxing Academy
Amarillo, Texas
25-10 (16 KOs, 9 Submissions)


HEAVYWEIGHTS – FSN (FOX SPORTS NET)

ANTONIO ROGERIO “Minotoro” NOGUEIRA
Brazilian Top Team
Vitoria da Conquista, Brazil
13-3 (2 KOs, 5 Submissions)

VS.

VERNON “Tiger” WHITE
Lion’s Den
Palo Alto, California
26-32-2 (10 KOs, 7 Submissions)


LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS - SWING FIGHT “May not be broadcast”

TERRY MARTIN
Chicago, Illinois
16-4 (10 KOs, 5 Submissions)

VS.

VITOR “The Phenom” BELFORT
Curitiba, Brazil
16-8 (10 KOs, 2 Submissions)


LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS - SWING FIGHT “May not be broadcast”

JUSTIN LEVENS
CSW
Laguna Niguel, California
9-8 (7 KOs, 2 Submissions)

VS.

RAY LIZAMA
San Diego, CA
5-5 (3 KOs, 2 Submissions)


WELTERWEIGHTS - SWING FIGHT “May not be broadcast”

MIKE “Quicksand” PYLE
Xtreme Couture
Las Vegas, Nevada
15-5-1 (2 KOs, 13 Submissions)

VS.

JJ AMBROSE
Bodyshop Fitness Team
Lakewood, California
9-1 (2 KOs, 4 Submissions)

LIGHTWEIGHTS - SWING FIGHT “May not be broadcast”

SAVANT YOUNG
Bodyshop Fitness Team
Lakewood