Sarah Goodlaxson Interview

Photo Credits:
Photos 3-5: David Lee Hamp


A little grudge always makes a fight more exciting. Especially when that grudge has been building for two years. At Total Warrior Combat's next even on January 19th a two year grudge comes to a head as Sarah Goodlaxson takes on Jen Aniano. I got the opportunity to interview Sarah to get the "Piranha's" version of how their mutual dislike started and her thoughts on the upcoming fight.

Q:You had taken time off for school and everything, did you plan on coming back now or was it just the opportunity to fight Jen?
A: No, I didn't plan on coming back. I was planning on finishing school out and graduating. I was gonna try and train as much as I could but I just missed it too much. I was getting fat haha, I wasn't happy with myself and was unmotivated to workout. Going from training to trying to just run on a treadmill or workout by yourself just doesn't work. I was completely unmotivated. It was a combination of my school taking longer than I thought and I was bored and missed everything. I decided to come back and got ahold of the promotion, TWC, and they asked Jen to fight me. They asked if I wanted to fight Jen and I said "yes". That's what happened.

Q: You were supposed to fight her in 2010 but had to withdraw due to an injury, what was the extent of the injury?
A: I tore some ligaments in the same ankle I had broken before so it was scary and not cool. It happened on a Wednesday and the fight was that Saturday. The next day i was trying to roll and couldn't put any pressure on it. I was sparring with my boyfriend when it happened and he heard my ankle crack, and I fell down crying. He told me later "at that moment I knew you weren't gonna fight, I saw it happen, I heard it happen, I knew it was over". It was so stupid, we were being careful, going light, moving around and getting warmed up and my ankle gave out. It is one of those things where opponents think someone is scared and she thought I was scared. I know how pissed you would be if you go through a whole camp and something happens so I was trying to be nice and let her know it was a legitimate injury, but it is what it is.

Q: After that you said she didn't believe you and even texted your boyfriend to see if it was real...
A: Yes, her exact text was "is your girl really hurt or is she just being a bitch" haha, that was the exact text.

Q: What was your reaction to that?
A: I was pissed. I was angry and kind of shocked because I wasn't making it up, I wouldn't make it up. I have had a lot of girls back out of fights with me before, so I went through the trouble of letting the promoter know myself and let her know. It wasn't like "tell them I'm not gonna fight", I let them know myself. I did everything possible to do the right thing in a crappy situation. That is what started us not liking each other, that text message ticked me off.

Q: In your Examiner interview you said she made excuses not to fight you, then she did an Examiner interview and said you backed out of three opportunities to fight her, what is your response to that?
A: I don't really know what she is talking about. I know one time it was some kind of January fight at the Palace. I had been asking for a really long time to fight her. At that point I was going back to school and not training and everyone knew it. I was asked to fight Jen and said "no, I am going to school." She told everyone I backed out of a fight. maybe it was some kind of miss-communication, I don't know, but this is how it's been for two years with her, weird weird stuff she will say. Not to long ago, I offered her a kickboxing match which she declined and said she doesn't do kickboxing, we are both 0-0, both small, it makes sense, I thought it was a good idea. Then I saw her coach at weigh-ins for a kickboxing fight and said "what is the deal, you guys made excuses for two years, what is going on?" Her coach said "there is a show in two weeks, you can fight her if you want to." I said "yeah o.k. let me talk to my coach and see how it goes." I wasn't training, wasn't doing anything, no way I could get my cardio up so my coach said no and to wait till is tart training again. That is probably what she is talking about, but other than that, no clue.

Q: When you go into a fight with so much dislike, do you have to remind yourself to stick to a game-plan and not let that anger take over?
A: Yeah definitely! I am not gonna pull a Miesha Tate versus Ronda Rousey where Miesha was all ticked off and emotional seeing red. That is not what we train to do, you don't wanna fight mad and with emotion. As soon as I found out I was fighting her I just became indifferent. I don't like her, I don't dislike her, if I saw her on the street I would give her a head nod. That is how I need to feel. It is too much energy to really dislike someone, too much work, so indifference is good haha.

Q: No secret, she is at her best on the ground, if it goes there are you confident you can hang with her?
A: Yeah, I expect it, especially in the first, to go to the ground. I am not sugar coating it in my head. I know where she wants it to go, chances are it is probably gonna go there. It is what it is and I am preparing for everything. There is nothing she can do that would surprise me.

Q: If it stays standing, can she hang with you?
A: No! Haha, I don't know what else to say.

Q: You train at her former gym, does that give you any advantage?
A: I feel like we probably know her better than she knows me. In her interview she said I purposely came here just to train with her old team because of her. Maybe it gives me an edge. I am pretty comfortable going in. I don't know if there has ever been an opponent I have known so much about. Maybe that isn't a good thing, you never know.

Q: Is there a key to you winning?
A: It would be great if I could break her. She is really tough. She is good at being tough. She is strong-willed. She can grind a fight out for three rounds if she needs to. If I could break her, that is what everyone wants to do to an opponent. Make my game-plan happen.

Q: Do you have a prediction?
A: Well, I predict I win haha.

Q: After this, any idea what you want next?
A: I am not trying to look past this fight, I have wanted it for two years. I have fights lined up and will be busy.

Q: Anyone you want to thank?
A: My coach and my team. I don't have any sponsors right now.

Locked in the Cage 14 Report

Here is my play by play for Locked in the Cage 14

1. Amateur Bantamweight (2x2x2 Rounds)
Erik Stankiewicz (0-0) vs Dom Milliner (0-1)

RD 1: Leg kick by Milliner. Takedown by Stankiewicz into guard but he lets him up. They clinch on the cage. Takedown by Stankiewicz into guard. Stankiewicz gets mount and lands body shots. They stand and Stankiewicz starts shuffling his feet and being annoyingly cocky. Takedown by Stankiewicz into side control. Nice job by Milliner to stand but the drop back down with Stankiewicz on top landing body shots.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Stankiewicz

RD 2: They trade punches. Hook by Milliner. Takedown by Stankiewicz into guard. Milliner goes for an arm but Stankiewicz escapes and gets his back but is way to high and Milliner gets on top in side control. Stankiewicz reverses and gets side control. Stankiewicz tries for an arm and Milliner gets on top in side control. Knee to the body by Milliner and another. More knees to the body by Milliner.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Milliner

RD 3: Leg kick by Stankiewicz. Two crosses by Milliner. They clinch on the cage. Knee to the leg by Stankiewicz. Slam by Stankiewicz into half guard. Milliner looks for a guillotine but can't get it. Stankiewicz lets him up. Leg kick by Stankiewicz. Takedown by Stankiewicz into guard.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Stankiewicz
My score card: 29-28 Stankiewicz

Result: Erik Stankiewicz by Unanimous Decision (30-27/30-27/30-27)

2. Amateur Heavyweight (2x2x2 Rounds)
Robert Fitzgerald (0-2-1) vs Kyle Daukaus (1-1)

RD 1: Jab by Fitzgerald. They trade hard shots. Takedown by Daukaus into guard. Fitzgerald goes for a triangle and gets it for the tap.

Result: Robert Fitzgerald by Tapout (Triangle) at :48 of Round 1

3. Amateur Lightweight (2x2x2 Rounds)
Brian Trahey (0-0) vs Justin Lesko (1-0)

RD 1: Leg kick by Trahey. Takedown by Lesko and he gets his back. Lesko looks for a rear naked and gets it for the tap.

Result: Justin Lesko by Tapout (Rear Naked Choke) at :39 of Round 1

4. Amateur Heavyweight (2x2x2 Rounds)
Christopher Daukaus (2-0) vs Mike Jenkins (0-1)

RD 1: Body kick by Jenkins. Daukaus lands several hard punches. Cross by Jenkins. They clinch and quickly separate. Hook by Daukaus. Knee to the head by Daukaus drops him and the ref stops it.

Result: Christopher Daukaus by KO at :26 of Round 1

5. Amateur Featherweight (2x2x2 Rounds)
Dave Roberts (1-1) vs Zedekiah Montanez (2-1)

RD 1: Leg kick by Montanez. Roberts catches a kick and throws him down but lets him up. Leg kick by Montanez. Leg kick by Roberts and another. Cross by Montanez. Leg kick by Montanez. Body kick by Roberts. They clinch in the center. Knee to the body by Montanez. They move to the cage. Knee to the body by Roberts. Knee to the leg by Roberts. Montanez has a bad cut over his eye. They trade knees to the leg. Slam by Roberts.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Roberts

RD 2: The doctor stops the fight due to the cut.

Result: Dave Roberts by Doctors Stoppage (Cut) at 2:00 of Round 1

6.Amateur Featherweight (2x2x2 Rounds)
Matthew Kakareka (2-4) vs Matthew Ibbotson (4-5)

RD 1: Leg kick by Kakareka. Takedown by Ibbotson and he gets his back. Head shots by Ibbotson. Ibbotson stands and drops down punches. Ibbotson drops into side control and then gets his back again. Head shots by Ibbotson. Ibbotson lets him up. They clinch on the cage. Head shots by Ibbotson. They drop down and Ibbotson gets his back. Body shots by Ibbotson.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Ibbotson

RD 2: Hook by Kakareka. Ibbotson lands a kick low stopping action. They resume and Kakareka shoots but can't get the takedown. Ibbotson lands a nice uppercut. They clinch on the cage and drop down with Ibbotson getting his back. Kakareka rolls and has him pushed against the cage. Body shots by Ibbotson. The ref stands then. Kakareka shoots but eats punches to the head.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Ibbotson

RD 3: Cross by Ibbotson. Kakareka shoots and gets a takedown into guard. Body shots by Kakareka. Hammer fists by Kakareka. Ibbotson sweeps and gets on top in guard. Body shots by Ibbotson. Ibbotson moves to half guard. Knee to the body by Ibbotson. Ibbotson goes for an arm but Kakareka escapes.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Ibbotson
My score card: 30-27 Ibbotson

Result: Matthew Ibbotson by Unanimous Decision (30-27/30-27/30-27)

7. Pro Middleweight (5x5x5 Rounds)
Chris Wing (3-3) vs Shedrick Goodridge (2-3)

RD 1: They clinch in the center. Knee to the body by Goodridge. They move to the cage. Knee to the body by Goodridge. Knee to the leg by Goodridge. Punch to the body by Goodridge. They trade body shots. Foot stomp by Wing. Knee to the leg by Goodridge. They trade knees to the body. Goodridge lands a knee low stopping the action. They resume and trade punches. Wing catches a kick and clinches on the cage. Body shots by Wing. Punches to the leg by Wing. Punch to the body by Goodridge. Knees to the leg by Wing. They trade body shots. Knee to the body by Goodridge. The ref separates them. Leg kick by Goodridge. They clinch on the cage. They trade body shots. Foot stomp by Wing. Body shots by Goodridge. Knee to the body by Goodridge. The ref separates them and they clinch again.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Goodridge

RD 2: They clinch and move to the cage. Body shots by Wing. Knee to the leg by Goodridge. Body shots by Wing. Knee to the leg by Goodridge. Knee to the body by Goodridge. They separate. Hook by Wing. Head kick by Goodridge. They clinch against the cage. Knee to the leg by Goodridge. They separate. Cross by Wing. Hook by Wing. Body kick by Wing. Leg kick by Wing. Jab by Goodridge. Body kick by Wing. They clinch against the cage. Body shots by Goodridge. Knee to the leg by Wing. Knee to the leg by Goodridge. The ref separates them. Body kick by Goodridge. Cross by Goodridge. Goodridge falls throwing a kick and Wing drops into guard. Body shots by Wing.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Wing

RD 3: They trade punches. They clinch and move to the cage. They trade body shots. Foot stomp by Wing. Punch to the head by Wing. Body shots by Goodridge. They trade body shots. The ref separates them. Cross by Wing. Cross by Goodridge. Wing shoots in but Goodridge sprawls and lands body shots. Head shots by Goodridge. Wing is still trying to finish the takedown. Goodridge stands and gets his back. Head shots by Goodridge. Wing stands and they clinch on the cage. Wing drops down and tries to bring Goodridge down but Goodridge lands body shots. They stand and clinch on the cage. Body shots by Goodridge.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Goodridge
My score card: 29-28 Goodridge

Result: Chris Wing by Split Decision (29-28/27-30/29-28)

Submission of the Night: Justin Lesko

KO of the Night: Christopher Daukaus

Fight of the Night: Erik Stankiewicz vs Dom Milliner

Roxie Beckles Interview

Photo Credits:
Photo 2: Collen Audivare
Photos 3-5: RX Muscle


Making the switch to physique was clearly a smart move for Roxie Beckles as she placed well at several shows this year. A dancer and performer before competing, she clearly puts those skills to use as she is a natural on stage. The respect others have for Roxie is also clearly evident as so many have said that 2013 is going to be a big year for her, and that is something that is very hard to argue.

Q: Can you talk about how you got started in the gym?
A: I started officially really working out back in about 1996 when I was still in school. I was into dance and sports so I got into working out through those activities. When I finally went to college I made my way into the weight room and just kind of started from there. I didn't start seriously until a year later when I actually thought about doing competitions, but that fell through. So it has been a long journey, from the late nineties until now.

Q: What led you to finally competing?
A: AS I said, I wanted to compete for a very long time. I used to watch the competitions on ESPN in the mid nineties when they had it on late at night. So I always had that aspiration to step on stage, that was back when the only had bodybuilding or fitness. I was a dancer so I wanted to do fitness. I started training for a show in 1999 and got really sick with pneumonia and had to stop and never picked it up again. I was a professional dancer, worked on stages across the country so when it came time to retire I wanted to get back into something that would give me the same joy. I was always working out and working as a trainer so the next progression was like "maybe I will try and compete, I have time." So I did my first show in 2010 and the story went from there.

Q: Some girls I interview say that after the first show it becomes addicting, was that the case with you?
A: It wasn't really an addiction, I was already used to it. It was just another show, another performance. For me it was something new to do. As a dancer, as an artist period, because I was a dancer, an actor, the art becomes who you are and you identify with that. Especially as a performing artist, it is so physical. For me that connection with competing is the work that goes into it, the training and diet and preparation. It is something I love to do. It was a continuation of what I was used to but in a different arena.

Q:What made you decide to move to physique?
A: Well, I was competing in figure. It's funny, as I started to really train because I never trained as a bodybuilder at any point in my life, I was always more sport specific, but when I started to get into competitions, my body just took on a whole new form to the point the amount of muscularity I was able to develop in a short time because I brought the muscle memory. It got to where I was training and now was standing next to the figure girls and I had more muscles than they do. I am that type of body that I can probably train down and do figure but I like to train hard and build my body, so it was a better option and more me. The other part I love is that I get to do a routine now, so it is the best of both worlds for me.

Q: Was the posing hard to learn?
A: No, the posing is the easy part. The hardest thing was that it was weird at first going from quarter turns to having to hit poses. Posing in itself is an art, learning how to display the body and show the muscularity is actually very hard. I am getting better and still trying to fix little angles, but it wasn't hard to learn, just a process of learning what looks best on me.

Q: You did several shows this year, how did you feel about your year competing wise?
A: Oh my God, this has been the most incredible year ever for me. I just finished my second year competing, the first year was only two shows, both National qualifiers I did well in. They were at the end of the year, so not a full year. This year was incredible. I started off in physique, the first year they had it at the local level. No one knew what the hell they were looking for. It was like "go up there and do what I got, this is what I think it is, you let me know which one or not." I finished up with an overall title my first time out. Since that show, the difference between that show and the last is night and day, same suit, night and day difference. I've had a tremendous year of growth, a tremendous year of progress and learned so much about myself. It was a tough but remarkable year and will propel me more for 2013.

Q: At Nationals you placed sixth and that is the one where I thought you really deserved better, did you get any feedback like that from people?
A: Everyone is gonna have their opinions and I always appreciate it. It is very humbling, but with Nationals, it is a big show, a major show, and they were going with a different look for the division. They went with more muscle. I would never say that any competitor isn't deserving of their win. I brought my best look and of course wanted to walk away with a victory but it wasn't in the cards. I walked away knowing the things I have to work on and that is all I can focus on. I heard some chatter and was humbled, but on to the next one.

Q: Do you know what show you want to start 2013 with?
A: Yes I got an email from Kim today. We have my first show picked out but I am leaving it a secret haha. I was planning to take the year off to work hard on adding more muscle. I showed Kim my photos and he is happy with what he sees and I am not far away in his opinion.

Q: From Nationals to the next show, where do you want to be better?
A: I need to bring up my arms. I have this bicep obsession right now. I am mildly obsessed with peoples arms. I have great legs, even those can be filled out. Just all over, put on a tiny bit more size. Bringing my arms up is a focus and they are coming along so I am happy.

Q: A lot of people predict a big year for you, I am sure that makes you feel good but does it add any pressure to live up to peoples expectations?
A: I have already been through that storm and mental weight on myself, especially going into Nationals because I had just come off winning Sacramento so the momentum was in swing. I had a little freak-out with a friend. I stayed with her and we had one liners that came out of my mouth that were wild and crazy, cause you are carb depleted. I placed sixth and it was the best outcome, it made me feel like "it doesn't matter, you have to do for you, the stakes get higher when you go pro". Imagine the pressure Erin Stern and Nicole Wilkins have when they step on stage. You have to learn how to not dwell on that and present what you have and at that point it is up to the judges. Me having the year I had has prepped me for what may come in the future. All things come to you only when you are truly ready for them and I was not quite ready. 2013 I am claiming it as mine and gonna go full force.

Q: In the gym, do you get a lot of stares or attention?
A: Haha, well I train at three gyms so it depends where I am. When I am at Gold's in Venice, everyone is used to it, but when I am at Equinox I am kinda the beast mode girl that all the girls are on love with and all the guys are afraid of haha. I think most people come up to me cause they know me and see me, it is an inspiration for people. I get to tell them what I do and the differences between the divisions. I don't mind it so much and am in my own world. In prep mode no one talks to me haha.

Q: If you could spend a day training with someone you have never trained with, who would it be?
A: I am trying to get a session in with Lenda Murray. Lenda has become a mentor for me this year. Eight time Ms. Olympia, amazing body, no one has surpassed her even though her and Iris (Kyle)are now tied. If there is anyone whose information I would value, it is her, when I speak to her, I don't talk, I listen. We haven't trained, we have talked and emailed. It would definitely be Lenda. She is selective which makes it more valuable.

Q: Anyone you want to thank?
A: My coach Kim Oddo who has taken me from average to BAM! He has been an amazing support. I started with him after USA's and he has taken my body to a new level. Everyone at Sioux Country, Jason Lannigan has been an amazing support, all the members are so great. I wouldn't be where I am without their support. Of course my family, my followers on Facebook,everyone who has been behind me.

Lexi Berriman Interview

Photo Credits:
Photos 1-2: Juliecall.com
Photos 3-5: RX Muscle


Lexi Berriman is the kind of competitor I really like to support. As you will read, she is not getting on stage and training to compete with others, she does this to compete with herself. Not in it for fame, in it to show what she can do. But as far as that getting on stage thing goes, well, she does that quite well to, always improving from show to show and with her attitude, there is no reason to doubt that that will continue.

Q: Can you talk about how you got started in the gym?
A: I got started in the gym because I had too much free time on my hands. There was a two week free membership in the paper and I used my baby-sitting money. I used the two week trial that they had and then I bought a whole year with my baby-sitting money.

Q: What led you to competing?
A: It was an accident. My thirtieth birthday was coming up and I was at an MMA fight with my boss, cause I am a trainer at a gym, and made a joke and said "hey, you should train me for a competition" and he said "I only train winners" and I said "that's no pressure". About a month later I decided to and did a show and won.

Q: A lot of the girls I interview say that after that first show competing becomes addicting, was that the case with you?
A: It wasn't necessarily addicting for me. My goal was only to do the one show but after I won I qualified for Nationals and my boss talked me into a second show before that and I got second place in that show. It just put me on track to keep going.

Q: This year you did USA's and Jr. USA's. I am sure you would have liked to place better but I thought it was the best you have looked, how did you feel about those shows?
A: It was the best I ever looked. East coast girls are a little bigger and I have a little more conditioning to do, I know exactly what I need to work on. I did Jr. USA's and USA's here and at the last minute decided to do the Orange County Muscle Classic and everything went perfect, my food and everything and I think that is why I got overall there.

Q: At a show like USA's where you may not place where you want, are you more upset or does it just motivate you to work harder?
A: Oh gosh, I am never upset because I don't compete to win. From day one I already compete with myself. When I get off-stage I am like "o.k.", and I know what I need to work on. For me it is always a win as soon as I get on stage. I don't do backgrounds on the girls I compete against, I don't look to see what judges are looking for, I just look to see what I look like compared to last show.

Q: On stage, you have a great presence, always look happy and confident, is that an accurate statement?
A: Yes, most definitely. I go on already winning, I have no attitude towards anyone, I am proud to be up there with people who worked just as hard as I have.

Q: Do you know when you want to compete next?
A: Yeah, I have my whole schedule lined up. I am starting at Jr. USA's again, kind of as practice, I know I am not as muscular as girls on the east coast but I like to have a warm-up show and let the judges see me. That way if I do better in Chicago then we will see the difference and work I put in. So Jr. USA's, Chicago, Jr. Nationals I think, USA's here.

Q: Is there anywhere specific where you need to improve?
A: I need to build up my shoulders more. I need to improve my legs, my conditioning, that is where I hold all my body-fat. I got super lean for Orange County Muscle Classic, but I need my end of the season to be how I start this next season.

Q: For a lot of people the pro card is super important, but I get the impression that for you it is more a case of if it happens it happens, is that accurate?
A: Right! Getting a pro card doesn't pay your bills. I work hard sixty hours a week, sometimes seventy or eighty. Getting my pro card wont pay my bills. I'm not out to be famous or be a fitness model. Everything that comes along has happened and I am grateful for it. Dymatize asked me to be part of their demo team, they asked me, I never asked them, all the things I have done, people come and ask me. If anything happens, it is meant to be.

Q: When you are in the gym, do you get a lot of attention or stares from people?
A: I do a lot because the gym I am at isn't like a lot of gyms that are big fitness gyms for competitors. I am at 24 Hour Fitness. I am really picky about my clients I choose, I don't do it for the money I do it for the love of the people I train. Clients and members see me working out hard, it is not normal for my gym. They are like "holy cow, why are you working so hard, dieting so hard?", and I tell them I have a show coming up and they say "why do you do it?" I tell them "I do it because I love to eat so for me it is a challenge for myself fine-tune myself." I get a lot of people talking to me about it. My gym is becoming a competitor gym because they see me do it and they want to try it.

Q: When people are starring is it hard to block out?
A: No because these people become my family. When I see other people I say "wow, that person is strong" or "she has shoulders, I want shoulders like her", it is motivation. I don't get weirded out.

Q: If you could spend one day training with any person you have never trained with, who is it?
A: Erin Stern. She is my girl. She has the same body-style I as me. She is an athlete, a Dymatize girl, I could look like her if I did everything right in my time training. She is a good person.

Q: Anyone you want to thank?
A: My coach Tracey Greenwood and all my friends who have supported me.

Ultimate Reno Combat 38 Report

Play by play of Ultimate Reno Combat 38 from December 14th.

1. Under 18 Amateur Pankration Rules (2x2x2 rounds)
Adrian Chambers (0-0 Northern Nevada Academy of Martial Arts) vs Casy Baker (0-0 Reno Academy of Combat)

RD 1: Two jabs to the body by Baker. They clinch on the cage. Takedown by Baker into guard. Punch to the body by Baker. They stand still clinched on the cage. Chambers looks for a guillotine but can't get it. Body shots by Baker. Chambers tries for the guillotine again. Takedown by Baker into side control. Body shots by Baker. Chambers gets half guard. Baker goes for an armbar but the round ends.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Baker

RD 2: Chambers lands a punch to the head and gets warned by the ref since there are no head strikes allowed. They trade body shots. Takedown by Baker into half guard. Baker gets mount and gets an armbar for the tap.

Result: Casy Baker by Tapout (Armbar) at :43 of Round 2

2. Amateur Cruiserweight (3x3x3 rounds)
Chris Reynolds (1-1 Weapons Factory) vs Randall Saucedo (0-4 Independent)

RD 1: They trade punches. They clinch and move to the cage. Body shots by Reynolds. Punch to the head by Saucedo. Takedown by Reynolds into mount. Head shots by Reynolds. Reynolds gets his back and lands head shots. Body shots by Reynolds. Reynolds lands more head shots and Saucedo taps.

Result: Chris Reynolds by Tapout (Strikes) at 1:13 of Round 1

3. Amateur 140LB Catchweight (3x3x3 rounds)
Mario Bautista (4-0 Fighters Pro Shop East) vs Josh San Diego (4-0 Unlimited MMA)

RD 1: Leg kick by Bautista. Leg kick by San Diego and another. Clinch and takedown by San Diego into side control. Head shots by San Diego. Knee to the body by San Diego. More head shots by San Diego. San Diego stands and kicks at his legs. San Diego gets his back and gets a rear naked for the tap.

Result: Josh San Diego by Tapout (Rear Naked Choke) at 2:01 of Round 1

4. Amateur Bantamweight (3x3x3 rounds)
Shawn Brendle (1-0 Havoc Squad) vs E.J. Schmehl (1-1 Reno Academy of Combat)

RD 1: Leg kick by Brendle and another. Another leg kick by Brendle. They clinch and a takedown by Brendle into guard. Punch to the head by Brendle. Schmehl goes for an arm. Body shots by Brendle. Body shots from the bottom by Schmehl. Body shots by Brendle. Head shots by Brendle. Schmehl goes for an armbar but the round ends.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Brendle

RD 2: Leg kick by Brendle. Hook by Brendle. Leg kick by Brendle. They clinch and a takedown by Brendle into guard. Body shots by Brendle. Schmehl goes for an arm but can't get it. Hammer fist by Brendle. Body shots by Brendle. Punch to the head from the bottom by Schmehl.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Brendle

RD 3: Leg kick by Brendle. Push kick by Schmehl. Brendle shoots by Schmehl sprawls and lands body shots. Brendle shoots again and gets the takedown but Schmehl gets his back and lands head shots till the ref stops it.

Result: E.J. Schmehl by TKO at 1:20 of Round 3

5. Amateur Flyweight (3x3x3 rounds)
Isaiah Wright (2-1 Section 8 Fight Team) vs Jesus Rodriguez (2-2 360 Martial Arts)

RD 1: Leg kick by Rodriguez. Hook by Wright. They clinch and drop down with Rodriguez looking for a guillotine. It looks tight but Wright finally pulls out and is in guard. Hammer fist by Wright. Punch to the head by Wright. Wright moves to side control and then gets mount. Body shots by Wright. Head shots by Wright. Wright gets his back and lands more head shots till the ref stops it.

Result: Isaiah Wright by TKO at 2:20 of Round 1

6. Amateur Lightweight (3x3x3 rounds)
Chad Mertens (2-3 Fight Korp) vs Melvin Washington (4-0 Nine Diamonds CCA)

RD 1: Cross by Washington. Body kick by Mertens. Washington gets poked in the eye but the ref misses it. Cross by Washington. They trade punches. Cross by Washington. Leg kick by Washington. Push kick by Washington. Leg kick by Washington. Cross by Washington. Washington drops his hands trying to get Mertens to come in. Leg kick by Mertens. Cross by Washington. Hook by Mertens. Hook by Washington. Mertens is bleeding from the nose. Washington catches a kick and throws him down but lets him right up. They trade punches. Leg kick by Mertens.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Washington

RD 2: Lots of misses punches by both fighters. They trade jabs. Leg kick by Washington. Leg kick by Mertens. They trade hooks. Body kick by Washington. Hook by Washington. Cross to the body by Mertens. Leg kick by Mertens and another. They trade hooks. Mertens is now bleeding badly from the nose.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Washington

RD 3: Leg kick by Washington. Leg kick by Mertens. Jab by Washington. They trade hooks. Leg kick by Washington. Body kick by Mertens. Jab and hook by Washington. Head kick by Mertens. Leg kick by Washington. Hook by Mertens. They trade punches on the cage. Leg kick by Mertens and another. Hook by Mertens. They trade punches. Jab by Washington.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Mertens
My score card: 29-28 Washington

Result: Melvin Washington by Unanimous Decision (30-28/29-28/29-28)

7. Amateur Lightweight (3x3x3 rounds)
David Sallee (1-1 Havoc Squad) vs Travis Dohrn (1-0 Machado Fight Team)

RD 1: They come out trading punches. They clinch on the cage. Knees to the body by Sallee. Knee to the body by Dohrn. They drop down with Sallee looking for a guillotine. Dohrn escapes and gets north south position and then side control. Knees to the body by Dohrn. Sallee gets half guard and then full guard. Head shots from the bottom by Sallee. Punch to the head by Dohrn. More head shots by Dohrn.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Dohrn

RD 2: They trade body kicks. Hook by Dohrn. Leg kick by Sallee. They clinch on the cage. Knees to the leg by Dohrn. Takedown by Dohrn into guard. Head shots from the bottom by Sallee. Hammer fists by Dohrn. Body shots by Dohrn. Head shots by Dohrn. Body shots from the bottom by Sallee. Head shots by Dohrn. Head shots from the bottom by Sallee. Dohrn stands and kicks at his legs and drops into half guard.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Dohrn

RD 3: Leg kick by Sallee. Body kick by Dohrn. Dohrn drops him with a hook and gets on top in half guard. Sallee pulls full guard. Head shots by Dohrn. More head shots by Dohrn. Dohrn moves to half guard and lands head shots. Dohrn stands and drops down punches and gets side control. Dohrn traps and arm and lands more head shots. Sallee pulls his arm out. Dohrn gets mount and gets an armbar for the tap.

Result: Travis Dohrn by Tapout (Armbar) at 2:41 of Round 3

8. Amateur Flyweight Title (3x3x3x3x3 rounds)
Steve Gruber (7-4 Fulsom MMA) vs Oscar Ramirez (7-3 Reno Academy of Combat)

RD 1: Leg kick by Gruber. They trade jabs. Body kick by Gruber. Leg kick by Gruber. Hook by Gruber. Ramirez gets poked in the eye stopping action. They resume and Gruber drops him with a cross and kicks at his legs. He keeps landing several kicks. Gruber drops down and goes for a guillotine but Ramirez escapes and they stand clinched on the cage. Knee to the body by Ramirez. Knee to the leg by Ramirez.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Gruber

RD 2: Leg kick by Gruber. Hook by Gruber. Uppercut by Gruber. They trade punches. Cross by Ramirez. Leg kick by Gruber. Gruber lands several punches. Body kick by Gruber. They trade punches. Cross by Ramirez. They clinch on the cage. Knees to the leg by Gruber. Takedown by Gruber into half guard. Gruber goes for a guillotine but the round ends.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Gruber

RD 3: Leg kick by Gruber. Hook by Gruber. Leg kick by Ramirez. They trade jabs. They trade leg kicks. Ramirez lands punches and they clinch on the cage. They trade knees to the leg. Body shots by Ramirez. Knee to the body by Gruber. Knee to the leg by Gruber. Knee to the leg by Ramirez. Takedown by Ramirez into half guard. Ramirez gets side control. Body shots by Ramirez. Head shots by Ramirez. Nice sweep by Gruber and he goes for a guillotine. Body shots by Ramirez.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Ramirez

RD 4: Leg kick by Gruber. Leg kick by Ramirez. Ramirez drops him with a leg kick and he lands head shots on the ground. Ramirez lets him up. Ramirez drops him again with a leg kick. Gruber is injured and the ref stops it.

Result: Oscar Ramirez by TKO (Injury) at 1:15 of Round 4

9. Amateur Heavyweight Title (3x3x3x3x3 rounds)
Anthony McDonald (10-5 Midtown MMA) vs Terrell Bosen (6-2 Shargh Nux)

RD 1: Lots of circling by both fighters. Body kick by McDonald. McDonald lands hard punches on the cage to drop him. McDonald lands more punches on the ground and the ref stops it.

Result: Anthony McDonald by TKO at 1:51 of Round 1

Submission of the Night: Travis Dohrn

KO of the Night: E.J. Schmehl

Fight of the Night: David Sallee vs Travis Dohrn

Laura Marcusse-Sanko Interview

Photo Credits: Photos 1 and 3-5: Jerry Chavez
Photo 2: Smug Mug


One of the great things about Invicta is not only do they have the established pro fighters, they also give the new pro fighters a chance to showcase their skills. One such fight features Laura Marcusse-Sanko against Cassie Robb in both fighters pro debuts. Laura had a really good amateur career and is now taking the next step on what could also be a really good pro career. Here is Laura's thoughts on her opponent and fighting for Invicta.

Q: Your last fight you beat Nadia Nixon, how satisfied were you with your performance?
A: I was satisfied that it was a unanimous decision. I was unsatisfied in that I would always like to be able to finish my fights. I don't like having any amount of question. I am sure there were people who felt it could have gone another way. It was a back and forth fight but the fact it was a unanimous decision was indicative of how most people felt about it. Every time I watch a fight or think back on a fight there is always a million things I would like to do differently. I went into the fight with the attitude that I didn't want to be a Jiu-Jitsu fighter, jump guard and fall on my back, and that is what she did, and she does it fairly successfully, it is not a knock on that strategy, it is just not what I wanted to do. I went in with such a ground and pound mentality that people who watched that fight would question if I am good at Jiu-Jitsu haha. I didn't do any offensive Jiu-Jitsu, I was so focused on keeping top position and punching. I need to be less myopic when it comes to grappling next time. It was a win, I was satisfied.

Q: Did you know going in that it would be your last amateur fight?
A: I didn't, I wanted to have at least one or two more. A number of things happened, I had a couple fall through as well as I broke my foot and had bronchitis for seven weeks. There were periods where I couldn't train the way I needed to and when I could, I would be offered a fight and they couldn't find an opponent or the opponent would say she couldn't do it. When Invicta called part of me thought "do I wanna do this? I could use more amateur fights." But I think I am ready. I am not twenty-two years old and need to be smart about career moves. I felt it was the time to do it.

Q: What does it mean to you to get to fight for Invicta?
A: Oh it's huge! Just being on an Invicta card is a goal in and of itself. Turning pro is a goal but turning pro and fighting for Invicta is an entirely different echelon in my mind. It is a fantastic opportunity. They are almost literally in my backyard, the gym is five minutes from me and Memorial Hall is ten minutes from me. It is so awesome to have them here. It is funny because I think a lot of people locally, because there are so many promotions in Kansas City and a card every weekend, I think people here take it for granted, especially the guys, the don't know the women's MMA scene like I do, and so they don't have an appreciation for how big a deal it is. I hope that changes over time. Once people go to an Invicta show and see the level of fighters and the places they are from, they will realize it is a big deal.

Q: Anything about pro rules you are excited to use?
A: oh elbows for sure haha. I fought on Titan so we could knee to the head standing. The only change is elbows and I am excited about that.

Q: What do you know about Cassie Robb?
A: I don't know much. It is harder to research an opponent when they haven't fought professionally. I have seen a little video. She is a good grappler and am sure she has been working on her stand-up. I don't know tons and tons. I have all the respect for her in the world as I do for anyone who fights, especially women who step in the cage. If you are that type of person I already have respect for you, it can go up or down from there, but I have all the respect for her. She is an absolutely gorgeous woman and is passionate about representing the gay community, which I think is awesome. I have been asked a couple times in other interviews and part of me wants to channel my inner Ronda Rousey and talk crap and stir some evil vibes, but the truth is, that is not my personality. I am excited to meet her and shake her hand and put on a good show with her. She seems cool.

Q: With it being so close to home, you will have the crowd support, do you notice that when you are in the cage?
A: There are moments where you can hear people yelling. I have never had a moment where I was like "oh my gosh the crowd is behind me, I must prevail." More than anything I think it is fun afterwords to be able to catch up with people. No one in my family has ever seen me fight. My brother is flying in and friends are flying in, it will be a fun reunion for me no matter what happens.

Q: Now with five minute rounds, I assume if it goes late you are confident you have the cardio?
A: Oh yea, for sure. The gym I am at is full of pro fighters. I am surrounded by guys at a high level. We only train five minute rounds.

Q: Where do you feel you have the biggest advantage?
A: Probably striking, but again, no disrespect to her and I am sure she is working hard, but I feel I have the advantage in every area. She has a lot of submission finishes but I am extremely confident in my grappling, to the point I threw it out the window with Nadia haha. I have been training my striking a lot and have a new boxing coach I think the world of. It will be fun if it is a striking war.

Q: Last Invicta you had someone like Tecia Torres make her pro debut, look good and get attention for it, does part of you want to not only win but put on that performance where people walk about you after?
A: Of course! I'm not very good at or even a huge fan of self promotion, it is a necessary evil. I am not about forcing myself into the spotlight, but do I feel good about earning my way into the spotlight? Absolutely! I would love to come away with a performance where I felt it was my best effort and the true me. A lot of my fights I felt sloppy or the last and missed some opportunities. I would love the satisfaction of coming away knowing it was a good fight and if others notice, that is even better.

Q: Do you have a prediction?
A: I think it will be a first round submission on my part.

Q: Anyone you are excited to be on the same card with?
A: Everybody haha. Every one of their cards is the whose who of fighting. I love Carla Esparza and know her fairly well, she is so sweet I think the world of her. I cant wait to watch her go to work. I am most excited for her fight.

Q: Anyone you want to thank?
A: My coaches, Austen Ford, James Krause, Brian Davidson and Tim Elliott at Grindhouse. My sponsors, All Pro Century 21, No Limit Wheels, and Grassy Pants Beef.

Cassie Rodish Interview

Photo Credits:
Photos 1-4: Andrea Altman
Photo 5: Joey Hill


After three straight loses, Cassie Rodish has turned her fortunes around and heads into her Invicta fight with Stephanie Frausto on January 5th on a three fight winning streak that includes her most recent win, a first round stoppage of Summer Artherton. Cassie has shown great improvement, which she partially attributes to now being in the right weight class for her. This fight with Frausto features two fighters who seem to more often than not be in exciting fights and this one should be no exception.

Q: You are coming off a win over Summer Artherton, how did you feel about your performance in that fight?
A: My performance at the end was really really good. I started off a little slow, I took a big right cross in the first five seconds and felt stupid but then I got in the game and was able to pull off that rear naked choke in the first round. I had a couple submissions right away, my ground was feeling good, my stand-up was feeling powerful. Even though it was at 115 pounds I was feeling good.

Q: It was your third win in a row after three losses in a row, is there something you attribute the improvement to?
A: First of all, going down in weight has the biggest to do with it. My first pro fight was at 135 against someone who was 5'10", it was ridiculous. At that time I didn't realize MMA was gonna get bigger and I would want to pursue a career, I was just wanting to get in the cage and anyone who came along I said yes. Finally I got to 105-115 and have been able to showcase more of my talents. That weight difference is huge. That has to do with it and the time you put in the gym. Every time I lost, I went in the gym and tried to figure out what I was doing wrong and gradually you get better, there is really not a plateau in this sport.

Q: How big a role does just confidence play?
A: I think now at the weight class I am at, 105, it doesn't seem like everyone has an advantage on me, it is an even playing field. It's either my skills are up to par or not. I don't know if it is confidence, I just feel better. I feel I am a better athlete, been training harder, study the best I can. I know that my cardio is up there, my weight is great, I can be a better athlete.

Q: How excited are you to be back on an Invicta card?
A: I cant even explain it. I was so jealous missing the last two and watching all the women. I am so excited for them but at the same time I was super super jealous. I am just grateful, it is a great program, they treat fighters great and are making waves for women's MMA.

Q: Is this one more special since it is them wanting you as opposed to last time being a late replacement?
A: Yeah! It adds a little more pressure to. Now I have six weeks as compared to nine days, so I should be at my prime, be my best. I kinda like the nine days, just going in there. I hate sitting around and thinking, this six weeks is a long time haha.

Q: How do you feel you match up with Stephanie Frausto?
A: I think really good. She is an all-around fighter. It seems most of my opponents have been really really good at one thing, boxing or judo, she is all-around so that is fun for me cause I just have to look at my game-plan and just be well-rounded, think of everything. I have a few things up my sleeve and am excited to go out there and showcase my skills against someone who is highly skilled and in my weight class.

Q: You both have had some exciting fights, while not one of the most publicized on the card, this fight could be the show-stealer, would you agree?
A: Oh I think so. She has a lot of heart and I know that I have a lot of heart. One of us is going to sleep, whether my knock-out or getting choked out. Either someone is going down really hard or it will be a barn-burner for fifteen minutes.

Q: While you are both good at submissions, you also both have really good submission defense, do you think you both having the knowledge of that defense increases the possibility of this being more stand-up?
A: I don't really know. MMA is different, if it was a Jiu-Jitsu tournament and she was able to defend the submission forever. But now each of us has to defend submissions plus elbows and knees and punches, the whole gamete. So I see it being a little bit of everything, not just a stand-up war, a little of everything.

Q: You have been winning in the first round, but if it goes multiple rounds, safe to say you are confident in your cardio?
A: Oh yeah! My first three fights were that way, fifteen minute stand-up wars and I did fine. When I am in the gym there is no three five minute rounds, it is three hours till complete muscle failure. Fifteen minutes I am fine with.

Q: Where do you have the biggest advantage over her?
A: I am gonna say probably in just, not necessarily mental, but I am much older than her, things don't stress me out as much. I have seen it and done it and been around longer than her, meaning I am old haha. I just think i can stay cool and collective, and that is my biggest advantage.

Q: Do you have a prediction?
A: I would really really like a submission. I feel I keep getting better and better. She has great defense and the second fastest submission in Invicta, that would be great. I would take a knock-out but would like a really slick submission.

Q: She has a big name, this being on Invicta and the big stage, is a win here your big statement fight?
A: Yeah for sure. Not just her name, but I think she is ranked fourth and has beaten people I am interested in fighting. It will help me get my name out there. My first fight didn't do a ton for me, it got my name out there but as far as rankings, taking on someone at her level is huge for me and would solidify that I can hang with the big dogs.

Q: Anyone you want to thank?
A: Brett Atchley with Addison Sports Management, Cardio Force, Insanity Wear, VII AD Jewelry Art, Polanti Watches, Split Lip Fight Wear, Brawl Base, Klenchguards, Joe Taverni, all my teammates at Des Moines Jiu-Jitsu and Elite Edge Crossfit 515 and most of all the rock that keeps me grounded, my husband Brad Rodish.

Tecia Torres Interview

Photo Credits:
Photos 1-3 Alex Salmeron
Photos 4-5 Esther Lin



Tecia Torres is coming off her first pro win, a unanimous decision over Kaiyana Rain. A fight in which she proved all the hype surrounding her amateur career was well deserved. On January 5th she steps back into the Invicta cage against another young talented fighter in Paige Van Zant. Torres is looking for a finish in what should be an exciting bout.

Q: Your last fight, in your pro debut, you won a unanimous decision against Kaiyana Rain. How did you feel about your performance?
A: I feel like I stuck to my game-plan and went in there looking for the win and came out with the unanimous decision. It went exactly how I thought it would go. I thought she would try and strike with me and if that didn't work she would try for the takedown. Fortunately I was able to stuff all the takedowns and keep it standing and dominate in the stand-up. I was very happy with it.

Q: Are you expecting most girls to start doing that, come out striking and then realize they need to take it down?
A: Yeah, especially at this level, the lower level of professional fighters. As I get into my third and fourth pro fight, I think the level of stand-up will become at the same level as mine and at that point my Jiu-Jitsu and wrestling and other aspects will come into play and they will be up to par.

Q: With it being your pro debut where there any extra nerves?
A: No, it was like a normal fight. It was extra excitement because it was on a bigger stage and I knew a lot of people were watching on-line and we had a big crowd.

Q: How do you feel you match up with Paige Van Zant?
A: I think it will be another tough fight. I think it will be much like the fight with Kaiyana. I don't think she will be able to out-strike me or be any stronger than I am. I think she is no tougher than the girls I've already fought so it will be another tough fight but I will be overall better, more well-rounded.

Q: Are there any past opponents you would compare her to?
A: We have a similar opponent, Amber Stautzenberger. I think she might be like her, they fought each other, she won unanimously, but it was a pretty equal fight. So maybe her, not body type wise.

Q: She has two pro wins against good opponents, but very little amateur experience, does your experience give you any edge?
A: Overall, yeah. I have more cage time than her. I think that helps me in the knowledge department. I have had twenty-eight fights and am used to a lot of different things. A lot of scenarios have played out in my fights as opposed to the few fights she has had. She hasn't been able to experience as much as I have.

Q: To me, you have fought girls like her, while she hasn't fought anyone who fights like you, would you agree?
A: Yeah, she hasn't fought anyone as fast as I am, as strong as I am at 115, I think she will notice a different the first hit I land. She will want to count her punches and kicks and make everything count.

Q: You have already dealt with all the hype that goes with Invicta, she hasn't, can that maybe cause her any nervousness?
A: No, now that she has had a couple pro fights, on decent shows, she will be ready and used to it. It will be a fun fight for her just like for me. I am happy we were able to bring her in with Invicta, I was given two opponents and chose her because stylistically we match up well. I am happy I gave her a chance to show her skills on a well thought out show.

Q: Where do you feel you hold the biggest advantage?
A: I'm gonna just say everywhere haha. I am not sure what Jiu-Jitsu belt she is, I assume a white belt. I have a lot of experience in Jiu-Jitsu, doing tournaments and feel it will be strong. I don't think she can take me to the ground but if she does, I am ready. Everywhere but stand-up the most, my foot-work will be better, I can counter attack and fight off the cage. I had fun throwing elbows last fight and and my knees landed well.

Q: A lot of people see this as a fight between two top up and comers, do you see it that way or just another fight?
A: This fight I would call another fight. My third or fourth fight, not to look past Paige, but I see my third fight being a very competitive fight to make my mark coming into the top level girls. Those opponents will be tough opponents.

Q: You recently came up here to cross train with Jessica Eye, did that help you for this fight?
A: Definitely! It was an honor to train with Jessica before her fight with Zoila at Bellator. Congratulations to her. I admired Jessica before going there and after watching all the training she does, it made me more determined to be a high level fighter and come to my camp and incorporate new aspects. It benefited me for this fight. The sky is the limit and I look forward to training with her again, we mesh well together, my stand-up is good, her wrestling and Jiu-Jitsu is really good.

Q: You are always really happy for teammates, when you train with someone like Jessica and you see her win like she did, do you get some pride from that?
A: Pride that I was able to help her. I don't think I am at that level yet, but appreciative that she looked upon me to help her fight Zoila. It makes me thinks he saw something in me and now we have a relationship, even if she isn't from my team, she is a great friend and at 125 I don't have to worry about fighting her.

Q: Do you have a prediction?
A: I would love for this fight to end early. I am always happy with a win and ready for fifteen minutes and have the cardio for it. I can showcase some skills with a KO or a submission.

Q: Anyone you want to thank?
A: My Gym American Top Team, and soon to be opened Gym Moncaio Brothers Jiujitsu. My teammates, and the girls who help me tremendously India Gomes, Thais Nega, Nina Ansaroff, Jessica Aguilar, Holly Cline, and special thanks to Jessica Eye and Strongstyle. My sponsors for my 2nd Pro fight: Brawl and Maul Preformance Gear, Awakening Female Fighters, Babes of MMA, Slept Fightwear, Dawg Forever Forever Dawg DFFD, Chenoweth.com, Alexsalmeron.com

NAAFS Night of Champions Report

December 15th was NAAFS Night of Champions. In the few years I have been covering fights, this was from top to bottom the best card I have covered. Not a single boring fight. Night of Champions is where the amateurs who have battled all year get a chance to fight for amateur titles and prove they were the best this year. Among the highlights were Dominic Mazzotta making a huge statement with a win over Wes Hanson, Jerrell Hodge and Shane Valko put on a grappling clinic and Fadi Shuman proved me right when after his first amateur fight I said that this title was his. On the pro side, Torrance Taylor had another impressive stoppage and Isaiah Chapman and Dustin Kempf stole the show with what is easily the fight of the year with both fighters showing immense heart and skill.


1. Amateur Middleweight
Irvine Jones (1-0 Bonafyde MMA)vs J.T. Miller (2-0 Strong Style Fight Team)

RD 1: They come out trading punches. Clinch and takedown by Miller into guard. Punch to the head by Miller and another. Miller moves to half guard and then mount. Head shots by Miller. More head shots from Miller. Miller moves him to the cage and lands more head shots. Miller gets an arm triangle and gets the tap.

Result: J.T. Miller by Tapout (Arm Triangle) at 2:04 of Round 1

2. Amateur Featherweight
Eric Gifford (4-3 Brickhouse MMA) vs R.J. Buck (8-4 Strong Style Fight Team)

RD 1: Leg kick by Gifford. Body kick by Gifford. Slam by Buck into guard. Buck moves to side control. Gifford works his way up. Leg kick by Buck. They clinch and drop down with Gifford looking for a guillotine. Buck pulls his head out and lands head shots. Hammer fists by Buck. Buck moves to half guard. Body shots by Buck. Buck stands and drops down punches.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Buck

RD 2: They clinch and takedown by Buck. Buck lands head shots. Now body shots by Buck. Gifford tries to stand but Buck pulls him back down. Buck gets side control. They both land body shots. Gifford pulls guard. Gifford is defending well. The ref stands them. Jab to the body by Buck. Buck shoots in but Gifford sprawls and lands head shots.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Buck

RD 3: Buck shoots in and gets a takedown against the cage. Head shots from the bottom by Gifford. Body shots by Buck. They trade body shots. Head shots from the bottom by Gifford. The ref stands them. Hook by Gifford. Leg kick by Buck. Buck shoots but nice sprawl by Gifford and he lands head shots. Buck finally finishes the takedown into guard. Body shots by Buck. Head shots from the bottom by Gifford. Buck lets him up. Body kick by Buck.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Buck
My score card: 30-27 Buck

Result: R.J. Buck by Unanimous Decision (30-27/30-27/30-27)

3. Amateur Light Heavyweight Title
Dan Stevenson (5-0 Demolition Fight Team) vs Wayne Lanum (8-0 Buckeye Training Academy)

RD 1: Hook by Lanum. Hook by Stevenson. They clinch and takedown by Stevenson into guard. Head shots by Stevenson. Stevenson pushes him to the cage. Lanum is warned for grabbing the fence. Punch to the body by Stevenson and another. Punch to the head by Stevenson. Stevenson starts landing hard head shots and forces Lanum to tap.

Result: Dan Stevenson by Tapout (Strikes) at 2:01 of Round 1

4. Amateur Middleweight Title
Stephen Schlater (5-0 Walker Muay-Thai/Prodigy MMA) vs Nick Halkides (3-1 Evolve MMA)

RD 1: Body kick by Schlater. Hook by Halkides. They trade hard punches. Takedown by Schlater into guard. Body shots by Schlater. Punch to the head from the bottom by Halkides. Body shots by Schlater. Halkides goes for an armbar but can't get it. Schlater gets side control. Head shots by Schlater. Halkides tries for an arm but can't get it. Halkides pulls guard. Head shots from the bottom by Halkides. Head shots by Schlater.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Schlater

RD 2: Leg kick by Schlater and another. Punches to the head by Halkides. Leg kick by Halkides. They trade punches. Schlater goes for a takedown but eats punches. They trade leg kicks. Cross by Schlater. Leg kick by Halkides and another. Body kick by Halkides. They trade jabs. Hard hook by Halkides. Takedown by Schlater into guard. Body shots by Schlater. Halkides is defending well. Head shots from the bottom by Halkides. Schlater lets him up and they trade punches.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Halkides

RD 3: Leg kick by Schlater. They trade punches. Push kick by Schlater. Hook by Halkides. Leg kick by Schlater. Schlater gets a takedown into half guard. Punch to the body by Schlater. Halkides gets full guard. Punch to the head by Schlater and another. Body shots by Schlater. Schlater tries for a triangle but the rounds ends.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Schlater
My score card: 29-28 Schlater

Result: Stephen Schlater by Unanimous Decision (30-27/30-27/29-28)

5. Amateur Lightweight Title
Fadi Shuman (3-0 Mad Dog Fight Team) vs Nick Browne (4-0 Uniontown Fight Club)

RD 1: Browne lands punches and they clinch on the cage. Two knees to the leg by Browne. Punch to the body by Browne. Knee to the leg by Shuman. They separate. Jab by Shuman. Clinch on the cage and quickly separate. Leg kick by Browne. Cross by Browne. They clinch and quickly separate. Browne hurts him with punches. They clinch and move to the cage. Browne takes him down and lands punches to the head. Now hard head shots by Browne. Shuman stands but Browne still has his back. Shuman is bleeding. Takedown by Browne into half guard. Punch to the head by Browne.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Browne

RD 2: They trade punches. They clinch against the cage. Knees to the body by Shuman. Takedown by Browne. Browne stands and drops down punches and gets back in guard. Shuman tries for a triangle and then an armbar. Now Browne tries for a triangle. Browne stands and lets him up. They trade punches. Clinch on the cage and takedown by Browne.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Shuman

RD 3: Takedown by Browne against the cage. Not much action here. Shuman tries to sweep and gets his back. Head shots by Shuman. Body shots by Shuman. Shuman goes for a rear naked. More head shots by Shuman. Shuman goes for an arm. Head shots by Shuman. Shuman has an armbar but the round ends.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Shuman
My score card: 29-28 Shuman

Result: Fadi Shuman by Split Decision (29-28/28-29/29-28)

6. Amateur 115LB Title
Rachel Sazoff (4-2 Team Almeida) vs Rebecca Heintzman (4-0 Power of One MMA)

RD 1: Body kick by Sazoff. They clinch in the center. Knee to the body by Heintzman. They separate. Sazoff catches a kick and they clinch against the cage. Knee to the leg by Sazoff. They separate. They trade leg kicks. They clinch in the center but quickly separate. Hook by Heintzman. Leg kick by Heintzman. Heintzman catches a kick and they clinch. Knee to the leg by Heintzman. They drop down with Sazoff on top in guard. Body shots by Sazoff.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Heintzman

RD 2: Jab by Sazoff. Leg kick by Heintzman. Heintzman lands punches and they clinch in the center. They separate and trade hard shots. They clinch and Heintzman gets a takedown. Head shots by Heintzman.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Heintzman

RD 3: Sazoff catches a kick and takes her down. Sazoff stands and drops down punches and then gets in guard. Heintzman goes for a triangle but can't get it, but she does get on top in mount. Head shots by Heintzman. Sazoff rolls and gets on top in guard. Heintzman tries for a triangle but can't get it. Head shots by Sazoff.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Sazoff
My score card: 29-28 Heintzman

Result: Rebecca Heintzman by Unanimous Decision (30-27/30-27/30-27)

7. Amateur Lightweight
Corey Dulaney (2-0 Scrap House) vs Dustin Passalacqua (1-0 Strong Style Fight Team)

RD 1: They trade punches and clinch on the cage. Nice throw by Dulaney but Passalacqua is right back up still clinched against the cage. Head shots by Passalacqua. Passalacqua lands a knee low stopping the action. They resume and come out trading hard shots. Takedown by Dulaney and he gets his back and looks for a rear naked. Passalacqua tries to hang in there and defends it well. He escapes he choke and Dulaney lands head shots and tries for the choke again. Dulaney lands a punch to the back of the head but the ref misses it.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Dulaney

RD 2: Leg kick by Dulaney. They trade punches and clinch on the cage. Body shots by Passalacqua. Knee to the leg by Passalacqua. Takedown against the cage by Passalacqua. Short head shots by Passalacqua. They stand and trade hard punches. They clinch in the center and Passalacqua gets a takedown into guard. Head shots by Passalacqua. Passalacqua moves to half guard and lands punches. Passalacqua gets side control and lands head shots. Punch to the body by Passalacqua.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Passalacqua

RD 3: Hard cross by Passalacqua. Leg kick by Passalacqua. Takedown by Dulaney into half guard. Head shots by Dulaney. Passalacqua works his way up. Throw by Dulaney and he gets his back. Passalacqua moves to the cage and tries to stand. Body shots by Passalacqua. Head shots by Passalacqua. Passalacqua works his way up still clinched. The ref separates them. Cross by Passalacqua. They clinch and Dulaney gets a takedown but they are right back up still clinched. Knees to the body by Passalacqua. Takedown by Passalacqua.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Passalacqua

Result: Corey Dulaney by Unanimous Decision (29-28/29-28/29-28)

8. Amateur Bantamweight Title
Shane Valko (6-0 The Mat Factory) vs Jerrell Hodge (5-1 Brickhouse MMA)

RD 1: Valko shoots and they clinch and drop down but are up quick. Valko shoots in and gets a takedown. Body shots from the bottom by Hodge. Valko stands but Hodge is going for an ankle. Valko escapes but Hodge goes for it again. Lots of really good grappling and changing positions. Valko gets his back and goes for a rear naked. Head shots by Valko.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Valko

RD 2: Leg kick by Valko. Valko shoots and gets a takedown into half guard. Hodge gets full guard. Hodge goes for an arm. Head shots by Valko. Valko gets mount and then his back. Head shots by Valko. Valko goes for a rear naked. Knees to the body by Valko. Hodge goes for an arm. The ref stands them. Hard punches by Hodge hurts him.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Valko

RD 3: Leg kick by Valko. Hook by Valko. Valko shoots in but Hodge sprawls. Hodge gets his back and they stand still clinched. Valko drags him down looking for a guillotine. Hodge escapes and is in half guard and then side control. Hodge gets mount and lands head shots. Hodge goes for an arm but Valko escapes and stands. As Hodge goes to stand Valko lands a hard punch and they go down with Hodge in side control.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Hodge
My score card: 29-28 Valko

Result: Jerrell Hodge by Unanimous Decision (29-28/29-28/29-28)

9. Amateur Featherweight Title
Dominic Mazzotta (6-1 Ed Vincent MMA/Cho's Tae-Kwon-Do) vs Wes Hanson (7-0 Dawghouse Gym)

RD 1: They trade punches and then clinch and move to the cage. Punch to the head by Hanson. Mazzotta is working for a takedown. Knee to the leg by Mazzotta. They separate. Hook by Hanson. They clinch and move to the cage and quickly separate. They trade punches. Clinch and quickly separate. Takedown by Mazzotta but they are up quick.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Mazzotta

RD 2: Cross by Mazzotta. Hanson lands punches and they clinch on the cage. Takedown by Mazzotta against the cage. Mazzotta stands and drops a punch. Mazzotta punches his legs. Mazzotta lets him up and slams him right back down. Body shots from the bottom by Hanson. Hanson pulls guard. Head shots by Mazzotta. Mazzotta gets mount and lands punches. Mazzotta gets his back and looks for the rear naked. Head shots by Mazzotta.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Mazzotta

RD 3: Leg kick by Mazzotta. Hard punches by Hanson. Hard hook by Mazzotta. They clinch on the cage. Head shots by Hanson. Takedown by Mazzotta but they are up quick still clinched. They separate and Hanson lands a hook. Takedown by Mazzotta and he gets his back. Mazzotta looks for a rear naked and then goes for an armbar but Hanson escapes it and is on top. Hanson looks for a choke but cant get it.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Mazzotta
My score card: 30-27 Mazzotta

Result: Dominic Mazzotta by Unanimous Decision (30-27/30-27/30-27)

10. Pro Lightweight
Gino DiGiulio (8-1 G2 MMA) vs Torrance Taylor (11-7-1 Rising Dragon)

RD 1: Leg kick by Taylor. They clinch on the cage. Knee to the body by DiGiulio. Knee to the leg by Taylor. Knee to the body by Taylor. They drop down and DiGiulio gets his back. Body shots by DiGiulio. Taylor defends well. DiGiulio gets mount and lands head shots. Taylor scrambles and they stand. Taylor gets a takedown . Taylor stands and kicks at his legs. Taylor lets him up. Clinch against the cage. Takedown by DiGiulio. Body shots by DiGiulio. Taylor stands but DiGiulio drags him back down.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 DiGiulio

RD 2: They trade punches. They clinch in the center. Head shots by Taylor. Knee to the body by Taylor. They move to the cage. DiGiulio gets a takedown but Taylor is back up quick still clinched. DiGiulio is trying hard for a takedown and gets it but Taylor is up quick and drops down on top in side control. Elbows to the head by Taylor. More elbows by Taylor. DiGiulio gets half guard. More elbows to the head by Taylor till the ref stops it.

Result: Torrance Taylor by TKO at 4:02 of Round 2

11. Pro Bantamweight
Isaiah Chapman (15-1 Rock Hard MMA) vs Dustin Kempf (15-7 Instigator Fight Team)

RD 1: Cross by Chapman. Body kick by Chapman. Jab by Kempf. They trade hooks. Leg kick by Kempf. Cross by Chapman. Chapman catches a kick and takes him down. They are up quick still clinched. Chapman is looking for an arm triangle. It looks tight but Kempf says he is fine. Kempf escapes it. Takedown by Chapman but Kempf looks for a guillotine. They stand and he is still trying for the guillotine. Slam by Chapman into guard. Elbows to the body by Chapman. Chapman now is in half guard and then gets his back. They stand. Head kick by Chapman. Push kick by Chapman. Chapman shoots in and they clinch on the cage but separate quick. Flying knee by Kempf.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Chapman

RD 2: Chapman lands punches and elbows against the cage. Knees to the body by Chapman. Knees to the head by Chapman. Chapman drops down and gets a takedown and pushes him to the cage. The ref stands them. Chapman is bleeding from the nose. They trade jabs. Leg kick by Chapman. Jab by Kempf. Leg kick by Kempf. Cross by Kempf. Hard hook by Kempf. Chapman shoots and they clinch on the cage. Kempf looks for a guillotine and drops down with it. Now he goes for a triangle. It looks tight but Chapman is hanging in and escapes it. Chapman has a bad cut and is bleeding really bad. They stand. Jab by Kempf. Hook by Chapman. They clinch and Chapman hurts him with a knee to the head. Chapman gets a guillotine and gets the tap.

Result: Isaiah Chapman by Tapout (Guillotine) at 4:56 of Round 2


Submission of the Night: Isaiah Chapman

KO of the Night: Torrance Taylor

Fight of the Night: Isaiah Chapman vs Dustin Kempf