XCW: Devastation Report

1. Grappling Match
Matthew Fiddler vs Roddy Busler

RD 1: Clinch and move to the cage. Busler tries to drop down and does looking for a guillotine. Fiddler escapes and pulls guard. Busler looks to try and pass. Busler lifts him and slams him down. Busler uses wrist control to try and pass. Fiddler looks for a triangle but the round ends.

RD 2: They clinch and Fiddler pulls guard and drops down. Busler looks to pass but Fiddler is controlling his head to stop him. Busler stands to try and pass but can't. Fiddler looks for a sweep but can't get it. Busler gets to half guard but Fiddler gets full guard back. Busler gets mount and Fiddler gets half guard.

RD 3: They clinch and Fiddler jumps and pulls guard and is trying for an armbar but can't get it. Fiddler again tries for the arm and then for a guillotine but can't get it. Fiddler tries for a triangle. Busler stands and tries to escape and lifts and slams him.

Result: Draw

2. Grappling Match
Tommy Wuttunee vs Christian Ross

RD 1: They are hand fighting. They drop down with Ross in side control. Wuttunee rolls and gets his back in north south. They stand. Double leg takedown by Ross into half guard. Ross tries for a kneebar but Wuttanee escapes and they stand. They clinch and Ross kicks both legs off the cage and they drop down with Wuttunee in guard and he gets a guillotine and the tap. They start again and clinch and drop down with Ross on bottom trying for an arm. Ross tries for a triangle and gets it for the tap.

Result: They clinch and drop down with Ross on his back. Wuttunee rolls and is in guard. Ross looks for a triangle but Wuttunee escapes it. Ross sweeps and is in guard. Wuttunee tries for an armbar but can't get it. Ross gets mount but Wuttunee sweeps and is in guard. Ross gets a guillotine and the tap. They start again and Ross gets a double leg and is in guard using wrist control to try and pass. Wuttunee gets a guillotine and the tap. They start again and clinch and drop down and Ross gets a guillotine for the tap.

Result: Christian Ross wins

3. Pro Heavyweight 3x3x3 Rounds
Steve Arens (2-1) vs Kelly Redman (0-0)

RD 1: They clinch and drop down but are back up quick still clinched on the cage. Arens looks for a guillotine and drags him down and gets his back. Arens gets mount and lands head shots. Arens gets his back again and lands head shots. Redman rolls and gets in guard. They stand still clinched and move to the cage. Not much action here. They drop down and Arens gets mount. Punch to the head by Arens. Punch to the body by Arens. Hammer fists by Arens. Arens gets his back and lands punches till the ref stops it.

Result: Steve Arens by TKO at 2:49 of Round 1

2. Pro Welterweight 3x3x3 Rounds
Ryan Moore (0-0-2) vs Mariuz Bloch (0-0)

RD 1: They trade punches. They clinch but quickly separate. Hook by Bloch. Bloch drops him with punches and lands more till the ref stops it.

Result: Mariuz Bloch by TKO at :27 of Round 1

5. Pro Lightweight 3x3x3 Rounds
Ryan Starkell (3-1) vs Dauda Keita (3-0)Jab by Starkell. Leg kick by Keita. Body kick by Keita. They clinch on the cage. Body shots by Starkell. Takedown by Keita into mount. Starkell gets half guard. Starkell is defending well. Head shots by Keita. Starkell rolls and gets his back but Keita rolls and gets side control and then Starkell rolls and gets his back looking for a rear naked. It looks tight but Keita hangs in and escapes.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Starkell

RD 2: Leg kick by Keita. They trade punches. They clinch on the cage. Knee to the body by Keita. They trade knees to the leg. They trade punches. Nice throw by Keita into half guard. Keita gets mount and lands head shots. More head shots by Keita. Body shots from the bottom by Starkell. Starkell gets half guard. Not much action here. Starkell sweeps and is on top in guard. Body shots by Starkell.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Keita

RD 3: Body kick by Keita. They clinch and drop down with Keita looking for a guillotine. Starkell escapes and is in guard. Keita sweeps and is on top in guard. Body shots by Keita. Punch to the body from the bottom by Starkell. Body shots by Keita. Punch to the head by Keita. Head shots from the bottom by Starkell. Keita stands and drops back into half guard and then gets mount as the round ends.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Keita
My score card: 29-28 Keita

Result: Dauda Keita by Unanimous Decision (scores not read)

Submission of the Night: None

Knockout of the Night: Mariuz Bloch

Fight of the Night: Ryan Starkell vs Dauda Keita

IFPA Pro Alex Ellis Interview

Photo Credits:
Photos 1-3: Chinga Moalusi Photography


Some people you want to interview because they are a great competitor and some you want to interview because of the great job they do helping competitors. Rarely is there someone you want to interview for both reasons. One such person is Alex Ellis. Alex herself is a phenomenal competitor, winning her pro card in 2011, but she has also done a great job working with other competitors who have been very successful as well.

Q: Can you talk about how you got started in the gym?
A: I started by losing fifty pounds on my own. I had hit rock bottom. I needed to get myself back on track and started working out. I switched from the partying and drinking scene into workout out and that is pretty much how I got started.

Q: What made you want to try competing?
A: I had been working out at this gym in St. Louis and they had a bunch of fitness competitors and bodybuilders pictures on the wall. I would always look at them and think "this is a possibility for me." I wanted to step up my game in the gym and I loved doing the diet. I set a goal and a date to compete and I just did it.

Q: A lot of the girls I interview say that after that first show it becomes addicting, was that the case with you?
A: Addicting, no. I think it was more that I wanted my pro card, I had a goal. So I was gonna do whatever it took to get my pro card. I did three shows that year and realized to get to the next level I needed to take time off and build some muscle. I was driven to win my pro card.

Q: You won your pro card at the Southern States in 2011, do you remember what went through your head?
A: It was hard for me to wrap my head around it at first. I knew that I wanted to immediately do a pro show. I had been training to win my pro card so I could immediately do a pro show. From the minute I won my pro card I was just determined to do well in the pro ranks so I went into training right away. I was on a mission. I was excited and figured ways to better myself and do well as a pro.

Q: For the first pro show were you any more nervous than previous shows?
A: No, I was actually really relaxed and excited. I never get nervous I just have so much adrenaline when I get on stage. I know I put one hundred percent into everything I do, so I just put it all on stage for the judges to determine.

Q: Outside of the fact that it is tougher competition, is the pro stage any different for you?
A: No, I think it is more motivating knowing that the competition is tough, tougher than an amateur show. At first it was difficult because I had looked up to the women I was going to compete against. Putting me in that category with those women was inspiring. It wasn't nerve racking, it was just exciting.

Q: In 2012 you did several shows, overall how happy were you with the year competing wise?
A: At the beginning of the year I was extremely happy with my progress from the previous year. My body just kept getting better and better every show that I did. I was not extremely happy with my placing in one show last year but I used it to motivate me to alter the direction I went for the last two shows I did in 2012.

Q: Do you know when you will compete next?
A: I am going to compete at the NGA Heart of America on May 4th and the the Pro Body Solutions the week after that on May 11th.

Q: From last show, is there somewhere specific you feel you need to be better for the next show?
A: I feel I can improve everything. There's not really one part of my body where I feel that is worse than the other. I just wanna better myself every show. Better quality muscle and come into shows harder than I usually do. Some divisions I compete in like a softer look so it really just depends on which show I do.

Q: Your shoulders, especially your delts are incredible, can you give an idea of what you do for them?
A: Thank you! I work hard on my shoulders, I train them twice a week, but I don't over-train them. I usually pick five exercises. I do a series of lateral raises, pinkies up, knuckles up, thumbs up, military press, upright rows on the smith machine. I don't always go heavy on my shoulders, sometimes I go light and do fifteen to twenty resp, and then sometimes I go heavy. I do a lot of drop sets, just to confuse the muscle.

Q: Outside of that, you also run The Complete Package, where you pretty much do everything helping girls compete, what got you interested in that?
A: I started doing my own nutrition in 2009. I couldn't find a nutritionist that really was in sync with my body. I took over my own nutrition and did a ton of research and went to school for dietetics. It was trial and error on my own body fro two years and still is. I am always trying new things, adding different foods, to see how it does with my own body. I started taking on clients about a year ago and realized I am passionate about it. I love seeing other bodies change through nutrition and the different training and most of all I love the relationship with my clients because they all strive for the same goal. It all went from there. My passion is helping other people.

Q: You have had several girls do well recently, some winning their own pro cards, can you describe the feeling when they succeed?
A: Oh my gosh, I am ecstatic. Every time one of my girls is on stage I get more excited than when I am on stage myself. Kristin Flanery won her pro card first and I was so happy and proud of her. I worked with her nine months before she got her pro card. Seeing what these women have gone through is the most rewarding job. Same with Melissa Johnson, I cried when she won her pro card, and Amy Lescher, she is a fighter and never gave up. Also Ashley Lewis, she is a fighter to and very close to her pro card. Pushing them and helping them is very inspiring for me.

Q: If you could spend a day training with someone you have never trained with, who would it be?
A: My biggest inspiration, Terri McBee, the 2011 World Cup Champion. She has been there for me a hundred percent. I have never trained with her but we talk all the time.

Q: Anyone you want to thank?
A: My boyfriend Chinga Moalusi for being there for me and supporting me through everything. Pro Body Solutions, my sponsor, for putting my name out there and supporting me. My suit sponsor Tamee Marie, my TCP girls for inspiring me and making me the best coach I could be, my family, my friends and fans for the support. I wanna thank Fit Fuel 365 for the meals, the are gonna do my contest prep meals and help out my clients. My Super Fit clients and my gym St. Louis Fitness Club for their support.

IFBB Pro Stacy Wright Interview

Photo Credits:
Photos 1-3: Tom Ong
Photos 4-5: RX Muscle


At Team Universe in 2010 Stacy Wright earned her much deserved pro card. She did well in a couple pro shows and then became pregnant. She became, to me, someone even more inspiring by showing that even while pregnant, you can stay in shape. Following the birth of her son, she quickly got on stage and looked amazing at the Ft. Lauderdale Pro in October, continuing to show why I have long said she has one of the best physiques in the entire fitness division. On a side note, I want to add something. One of the things that I love most about what I do, is through my own training and this blog, I have met so many people in the fitness industry. Stacy is one of the most genuine and supportive people I have met. She is someone who is truly deserving of all she has accomplished and someone that we all should support.

Q: Can you talk about how you got started in the gym?
A: When I was sixteen, I had been a cheerleader since third grade, and they started us training in the football gym, lifting the weights in the summer during our off-season and it stuck. Once I picked up the weights, I didn't wanna run track, I didn't wanna do anything but curl the iron. It was home. It has stuck with me ever since.

Q: What about the weight training appealed to you?
A: It was comfortable. You know how some people just have that natural gift or ability? The mind to muscle connection, I immediately picked up good form and how to make the specific muscle work during a specific exercise. There is no way to describe it, it is like a relationship, it came natural to me. The more I learned the more I wanted to try and improve.

Q: What made you decide you wanted to try competing?
A: I always knew I wanted to compete, I just didn't think it was possible. Being from West Virginia, we are one of the most obese states and it doesn't seem like a lot of opportunity here. I would see people in magazines like Monica Brant. She was the number one person on the front of all my folders as a teenager. I knew I would love to do it, I just didn't think it was possible. When I met my husband, he had competed and was able to show me the ropes. He said, "we can do this, let's do it" and it took off from there.

Q: When you finally did compete was it everything you expected?
A: Oh yeah! I hoped I would have done better. I think your first show is a reality check to you. Not that I thought I should go in and win, but it was like "this is serious, these girls don't mess around." My first show as figure in a small federation but even then, the things I thought I prepared myself for, I realized if I wanted to get to the top, I have to live this day in and day out. Do it one hundred percent, and that is what I did.

Q: 2010 you won your pro card at Team Universe. When you first realized you were a pro, do you remember what went through your head?
A: I do. The whole world stops, it is a perfect peace at that moment. The way things went with the morning show, as long as I hit my routine, you just have that feeling it was gonna happen. As they called out the places, the called my first place in the tall class and it was so surreal. Then as I walked off stage they told me to go back out for overalls and that just blew my mind. I was just laughing cause I was giddy from winning my pro card, and then I win overalls and that was icing on the cake. There are no words to describe the amazing experience of everything coming together. All the years of hard work and this is what I had hoped for and there it was in my hands.

Q: What did the pro card mean to you?
A: I always knew I wanted a pro card. I compete for fun. There is no way I would put myself through the torture of prep and the expense of it all if I didn't. That is just the lifestyle we live, we love to compete, we love the stage and performance. I always knew I would get there, it was just a matter of time and I wasn't giving up till I got there. The pro card was a knew chapter in my life. It was "I am a pro now, I have to step my game up further, I am not stopping here." A lot of people get their pro card and that's it, it is the one goal they have. I wanted to keep getting better and compete against the best of the best and make a statement in the pro ranks.

Q: You made your pro debut at the 2001 New York Pro, were you any more nervous for that first pro show?
A: When I first stepped out on stage, there is a picture where you can see, they have a screen in the back with the IFBB logo, and I walked in front of that, and was like "this is it, this is what I worked so hard for." That was a bigger moment than winning my pro card. Those first steps on the pro stage with the logo right behind me. I wasn't more nervous, I felt at home. I had taken a lot of time after winning my pro card, I didn't jump into a pro show, I wanted to grow and improve so they knew I was there for business. It was another great moment in my career.

Q: Not long ago you became pregnant. You were posting pictures where you were still in incredible shape, was that more for you or more to set an example and motivate others?
A: Both! I just wanted to show everybody that pregnancy is not an excuse to go out and eat everything under the sun and lay around on the couch. I heard horror stories about people being so sick and morning sickness. I didn't change a thing. Obviously the further along I got in my pregnancy, I backed off on the free weight exercises. But I literally worked out at a moderate pace up until the day before he was born. It made the pregnancy wonderful, it made my recovery wonderful. I was growing a human being and the biggest thing for me was that what I ate was growing him. I wanted to show people and set an example that it can be done. I want to show an example for our son of what a healthy lifestyle is and what to do to live a healthy life. We started from birth pretty much haha.

Q: Not long after his birth you returned at the Ft. Lauderdale Pro, why was it so important to you to return so quick?
A: Because I am stubborn haha. I have competed every year since 2004. The way things fell, I had time to get on stage without sitting out a year. I competed at the beginning of 2011 and the end of 2012. It was a goal of mine to continue that. To overcome obstacles and prove I could do it. There was a show in December I could have done, but it happened that the Ft. Lauderdale show fell on Mason's birthday and I thought "how cool would that be? He is exactly seven months old and there is a show that day." If I wasn't ready I wouldn't do it, but with a lot of work I was able to do it. It was to prove to myself I could do it. Everyone thinks once you have a baby everything is over. I like to do the impossible.

Q: Was it hard to balance the prep with raising a baby?
A: Absolutely! Like we mentioned in our messages, more emotional than physical. I had mentally prepared myself during the pregnancy that my body would be different and I would have a lot more work than ever to get on stage. I have never had to try to get muscle back and lose body fat at the same time. How much cardio do you do while trying to gain muscle versus trying to lean out? It is a fine line in a new situation. All while wanting to spend every second possible with my son. I got to where I refused to be away from him at all. I would take care of him during the day if I wasn't working and after I put him to bed, I would go to the gym. If I worked at the hospital, I would give him his bath and do our bedtime routine and then I would go back out to the gym. My sleep suffered and I am the type of person that requires a decent amount of sleep to function. It became a big strain on me. But if you decide to compete and set your goals, you need to do what you need to do to reach it and be content and satisfied. I wasn't complaining, it was what I had to do to get there.

Q: You have one of the best physiques in the fitness division, would you ever consider trying physique?
A: Never say never.

Q: DO you know when you plan to compete next?
A: Right now I am not really positive. With coming back to Ft. Lauderdale I was trying to gain muscle and lose fat at the same time. So I had to take time to chill out and rest. I didn't go to the gym much. I needed to refocus and set new goals. Right now I am just trying to put on muscle, as you know I love muscle, the more the better. I wanna get back to where I was before the baby if not improve on things. I am not making any definite plans on what's next.

Q: If you could spend one day training with any one person you have never trained with, who would it be?
A: I am gonna go with Dorian Yates at the moment. That is who we base a lot of our training off of. A little modified here and there, but the high intensity training. Not a typical girl answer, but Dorian Yates.

Q: Anyone you want to thank?
A: Always thank my husband Andrew, he is wonderful. We are a team, we do this together. We have never stepped on stage without the other one there. Of course our son Mason, he is the joy and love of our lives. I love nothing more than being a mom.

Ring of Combat XLIII Report

1. Pro Heavyweight 4x4 Rounds
Joseph Ray (0-0) vs Gil Isabel (0-0)

RD 1: They clinch in the center. Knees to the leg by Isabel. They separate and Ray lands a hook. Hook by Isabel. Clinch on the cage. Knees to the leg by Ray. They separate. Hook by Isabel. Jab by Isabel. They clinch on the cage. Elbow to the head by Ray. Knee to the body by Ray. Punch to the body by Isabel. They separate. Hook by Isabel. They clinch on the cage. Isabel looks for a single leg. Head shots by Ray. Takedown by Isabel into half guard. They stand still clinched on the cage. Foot stomps by Ray. Knee to the leg by Ray and another. They separate. Hook by Isabel. Ray drops him with a hook and gets his back but Isabel is back up.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Ray

RD 2: Hook by Isabel. Clinch in the center and they trade punches then move to the cage. Body shots by Ray. Punch to the leg by Ray. Body shots by Ray. They separate. Uppercut by Ray. Hook by Isabel. Isabel shoots in and they clinch on the cage. Knee to the leg by Ray. The ref separates them. They trade punches. Hard uppercut by Isabel hurts him and he lands more punches. They clinch and Ray lands a knee to the head. They move to the cage. Foot stomps by Ray. The ref separates them. Hook by Isabel. They clinch on the cage. Punch to the body by Ray. Knee to the leg by Ray.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Isabel
My score card: 19-19 Draw

Result: Joseph Ray by Majority Decision (20-18/19-19/20-18)

2. Pro Featherweight 4x4 Rounds
Ashure Elbanna (0-0) vs Frank Buenafuente (0-1)

RD 1: Leg kick by Elbanna. Body kick by Elbanna. Elbanna lands a kick low stopping action. They resume and clinch on the cage. Slam by Buenafuente into guard. Head shots by Buenafuente. Elbanna tries for an arm but can't get it. Head shots by Buenafuente. Buenafuente moves to half guard and lands head shots. Elbanna tries to stand but can't. Buenafuente moves to north south and gets a choke for the tap.

Result: Frank Buenafuente by Tapout (North South Choke) at 3:23 of Round 1

3. Pro Welterweight 4x4 Rounds
Robert Plotkin (0-0) vs Whitney Francois (2-1)

RD 1: Cross by Francois. They clinch in the center and Francois lands a knee to the body. They move to the cage and Francois lands a knee to the leg. Francois is trying hard for a takedown. Body shots by Plotkin. Takedown by Francois but they are up quick still clinched on the cage. Knee to the body by Plotkin. Knee to the head by Plotkin. Throw by Francois into half guard. They stand and clinch on the cage. They trade knees to the leg. Trip takedown by Francois into side control. Knee to the body by Francois. Francois gets mount but Plotkin pulls guard. Head shots by Francois. Plotkin goes for an armbar and then a triangle and lands head shots till Francois taps.

Result: Robert Plotkin by Tapout (Triangle) at 3:27 of Round 1

4. Pro Middleweight 4x4x4 Rounds
Ryan Contaldi (8-6-1) vs Ariel Sepulveda (4-6)

RD 1: Leg kick by Sepulveda. Knee to the body by Sepulveda. Head kick by Sepulveda. Jab by Contaldi. Leg kick by Sepulveda and another. Contaldi catches a kick and takes him down but Sepulveda gets his back in north south. Head shots by Sepulveda. Contaldi gets on top in guard. Body shots by Contaldi. Head shots by Contaldi. Sepulveda defends well. Hammer fists by Contaldi. The ref stands them. They clinch on the cage. Sepulveda drops down with a guillotine but the round ends.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Sepulveda

RD 2: Lots of feints and circling by both. Leg kick by Sepulveda. Uppercut by Sepulveda. They trade hard shots. Takedown by Contaldi into guard. Body shots by Contaldi. More body shots by Contaldi. Head shots from the bottom by Sepulveda. Head shots by Contaldi. Body shots by Contaldi. The ref stands them. Leg kick by Sepulveda. Hook by Sepulveda. Leg kick by Sepulveda. Push kick by Sepulveda. Leg kick by Sepulveda.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Contaldi

RD 3: Sepulveda ducks a punch and takes him down into side control and then looks for a guillotine. Contaldi pulls his head out and is on top in guard. Head shots by Contaldi. Punch to the body by Contaldi. More body shots by Contaldi. Head shots by Contaldi. Punch to the head from the bottom by Sepulveda. Head shots by Contaldi.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Contaldi
My score card: 29-28 Contaldi

Result: Ariel Sepulveda by Unanimous Decision (29-28/29-28/29-28)

5. Pro Light Heavyweight 4x4 Rounds
Mike Andrillo (1-1) vs Keith Berish (1-0)

RD 1: Leg kick by Berish and another. Hook by Andrillo. They trade hard punches. Berish shoots in and gets a takedown and gets his back and lands head shots. Andrillo injures his arm and can not continue.

Result: Keith Berish by TKO at 1:10 of Round 1

6. Pro Welterweight 4x4x4 Rounds
Pat Defranco (2-1) vs Elias Silverio (4-0)

RD 1: Jab to the body by Defranco. They clinch on the cage. Knee to the body by Silverio. Knee to the leg by Silverio and another. They separate and clinch again. Knee to the leg by Silverio. Punches to the body by Silverio. Knees to the leg by Silverio. They separate and clinch in the center and move back to the cage. Knee to the body by Silverio. Knee to the leg by Defranco. Knee to the leg by Silverio. The ref separates them. They trade punches. They clinch and move to the cage. Knee to the leg by Silverio. Knee to the body by Silverio.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Silverio

RD 2: Takedown by Defranco into guard. Silverio defends well. Punch to the head from the bottom by Silverio. They trade head shots. More head shots from the bottom by Silverio. Hammer fist by Defranco. Body shots by Defranco. Not much action here. They trade head shots.
I scored RD 2: 10-10

RD 3: Knee to the body by Silverio. They clinch on the cage. Knee to the leg by Silverio. Knee to the leg by Defranco. They separate. Cross by Silverio. They clinch on the cage. Knees to the leg by Silverio. Silverio lands a knee low stopping action. They resume and clinch on the cage. They trade knees to the leg. Knee to the body by Silverio. Body shots by Silverio.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Silverio
My score card: 30-28 Silverio

Result: Elias Silverio by Split Decision (30-28/28-29/29-28)

7. Pro Lightweight 4x4x4 Rounds
Frankie Perez (4-0) vs Alfred Walker (4-2)

RD 1: Leg kick by Perez. Body kick by Perez. They clinch on the cage. Slam by Perez into side control. Perez gets mount and then gets his back. Head shots by Perez. Perez looks for a rear naked but can't get it. Perez flattens him and lands head shots. Perez gets mount and lands head shots. Perez goes for a key lock and then a kimura but can't get it and Walker gets on top in half guard. Perez rolls and gets on top and then they stand clinched on the cage. Knee to the body by Walker. Takedown by Perez into mount. Head shots by Perez.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Perez

RD 2: Body kick by Perez. Perez lands a kick low stopping action. They resume and Perez lands a head kick. Leg kick by Perez. Jab by Walker. Takedown by Perez into guard. Hammer fist by Perez. Perez gets mount. Body shots from the bottom by Walker. Head shots by Perez. Perez tries for an arm but can't get it. More head shots by Perez. Perez gets his back and lands more head shots. Perez moves back to mount and looks for an arm triangle and gets it for the tap.

Result: Frankie Perez by Tapout (Arm Triangle) at 3:36 of Round 2

8. Pro Lightweight 4x4x4 Rounds
Mike Medrano (10-9) vs Chris Wade (4-0)

RD 1: Leg kick by Wade. They trade punches. Clinch on the cage and takedown by Medrano into half guard. Body shots by Medrano. They stand still clinched on the cage. Body shots by Medrano. Takedown by Wade but Medrano is on top in half guard. Wade sweeps and is on top in side control. Head shots by Wade. Hammer fists by Wade. Medrano tries to stand but Wade gets his back and lands head shots.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Wade

RD 2: Leg kick by Medrano. Body kick by Wade. They trade leg kicks. Hook and cross by Medrano. They clinch on the cage and quickly separate. Leg kick by Wade. Body kick by Wade. Leg kick by Wade. Body kick by Medrano. Hook by Medrano. Leg kick by Wade. Hook by Wade. Leg kick by Wade. Leg kick by Medrano. Cross by Medrano. Hook by Medrano. They trade leg kicks. Medrano catches a kick and takes him down.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Medrano

RD 3: Leg kick by Wade. Body kick by Wade and another. Medrano lands punches and takes him down into guard. Body shots by Medrano. Punch to the head from the bottom by Wade. Medrano moves to side control and then north south and gets a guillotine that looks tight but Wade escapes and is on top in guard. Body shots by Wade. Head shots by Wade. They stand still clinched on the cage. Knees to the leg by Wade. Knees to the body by Wade. Knee to the head by Wade. Medrano is bleeding from the nose. Takedown by Wade into half guard. Head shots by Wade.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Wade
My score card: 29-28 Wade

Result: Chris Wade by Unanimous Decision (30-28/29-28/30-27)

9. Pro Featherweight Title 5x5x5 Rounds
Deividas Taurosevicus (15-5) vs Frank Caraballo (11-4)

RD 1: Leg kick by Caraballo. They trade punches. Leg kick by Caraballo and another. Leg kick by Taurosevicus. Hook by Caraballo. Taurosevicus lands a kick low stopping action. They resume and Taurosevicus lands a leg kick. Leg kick by Caraballo and another. Taurosevicus catches a kick and takes him down into side control. Head shots by Taurosevicus. Punch to the head from the bottom by Caraballo. Head shots by Taurosevicus. Caraballo gets half guard. More head shots by Taurosevicus. Taurosevicus gets mount and lands head shots. Taurosevicus gets an inverted triangle and gets the tap.

Result: Deividas Taurosevicus by Tapout (Inverted Triangle) at 3:38 of Round 1

10. Pro Welterweight Title 5x5x5 Rounds
Ryan LaFlare (6-0) vs Andrew Osborne (6-4)

RD 1: Leg kick by LaFlare. Push kick by LaFlare. Takedown by LaFlare into side control. LaFlare gets his back and lands head shots. They stand. Trade leg kick.s Takedown by Osborne and he looks for a guillotine. They stand. Hook to the body by Osborne. Jab to the body by LaFlare. Head kick by LaFlare. Leg kick by LaFlare. Hook by LaFlare. Cross by LaFlare. Hook by Osborne. They trade jabs. Body kick by LaFlare. Clinch and takedown by Osborne but LaFlare lands on top in side control and lands head shots. LaFlare traps an arm and lands more head shots. They stand and LaFlare lands a push kick. Hook to the body by LaFlare. They clinch on the cage and LaFlare lands a knee low stopping action. They resume. Leg kick by LaFlare and another. LaFlare catches a kick and takes him down and lands punches. They stand and trade leg kicks.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 LaFlare

RD 2: Hook by Osborne. Clinch and takedown by LaFlare into guard. Body shots by LaFlare. LaFlare stands and drops down punches and then gets his back. Head shots by LaFlare. Body shots by LaFlare. LaFlare goes for an ankle lock and it looks tight but Osborne escapes and LaFlare still has his back landing head shots. They stand and LaFlare still has his back and gets a nice slam. They stand still clinched on the cage. Takedown by Osborne into guard. Head shots by Osborne. They stand. Cross by LaFlare. They trade punches. Clinch on the cage. Knee to the leg by LaFlare. Takedown by LaFlare.
I scored RD 2: 10-8 LaFlare

RD 3: They trade punches. Hook by Osborne. LaFlare lands a kick low stopping action. They resume and LaFlare lands a push kick. They trade leg kicks. Cross by LaFlare. Clinch on the cage and trade knees to the body. Knee to the leg by Osborne. Knee to the leg by LaFlare. Takedown by Osborne into half guard. Body shots by Osborne. LaFlare gets full guard. Head shots by Osborne. LaFlare gets an armbar and gets the tap.

Result: Ryan LaFlare by Tapout (Armbar) at 2:01 of Round 3

Submission of the Night: Frank Buenafuente

Knockout of the Night: Keith Berish

Fight of the Night: Mike Medrano vs Chris Wade

IFPA Pro Amy Lescher Interview

Photos Credits:
Photos 1 and 5: Chinga Moalusi Photography


After two very good showings in 2012, Amy Lescher won her IFPA pro card at the Great Lakes Supernatural. In that show, she won the over 35, won her class and won the overall. What is most impressive about Amy is her attitude, towards fitness, health and competing. It is an attitude that has taken her far so far and will no doubt take her far competing in the pro ranks as well.




Q: Can you talk about how you got started in the gym?
A: Well I was an athlete my entire life. I played competitive softball and soccer and followed that with college soccer. I really started weight training in college and continued after college but got more into marathon running. After having my now two year old, I wanted a better way of living besides stomping my knees and joints on the ground every day through running. I started weight training more regularly and got turned on to this way of life.

Q: What led you to competing?
A: It was actually shortly after I decided to pick up the weights a little more. A friend of mine had competed and I always looked at Oxygen Magazine and the women in the back and competition reviews and always wanted to do that. In college I was working out to Cory Everson videos. My girlfriend said "I think you can do it", so the rest is history.

Q: The first time, right before you went on stage, were you nervous?
A: I wasn't. I actually grew up being a dancer as well and did some competitive dancing in college as well. Being on stage was comfortable to me. I had been there before and really enjoy that portion of the competition the most.

Q: A lot of girls I interview say that after the first one it becomes addicting, was that the case with you?
A: I'd say that was the case even before I did my first show. I would say to my trainer at the time that I didn't want to do the "one and done". I wouldn't say addicting as much as exciting and you are chasing that excitement. The whole process is more of a lifestyle than addiction. I don't like that word but I can see where they would say that.

Q: Going in to the Great Lakes Supernatural you had done a couple shows in 2012 and done well, going into this one did you feel the pro card was a realistic possibility?
A: Yeah, I had been placing second in masters the two prior shows, even my very first show I placed second in masters, and was placing third and fourth in open. I felt this year I had made some changes, particularly the first show in September and this show was October, I had made a lot of changes. My coach had me do different cardio and lower body routines. It felt like the pro card was eminent, it was hanging there for me, it was just trying to get that peak condition to be able to get that first place.

Q: In that show, you won masters, won your class, won the overall and of course the pro card. When you realized you were a pro, do you remember what went through your head?
A: I was almost like "Yes, all this work paid off." Not that everybody else doesn't work their but off because they do, but the four weeks prior to that show it was blood, sweat and tears every day. I did not get a day off. I hadn't had a day off in sixteen weeks. I was doing two-a-days the majority of the time to get in peak condition because I had some setbacks in 2011 when after my first show I had surgery and couldn't compete or even workout for ten weeks. It was almost like starting over. In that first minute it was "yes, all this hard work does pay off."

Q: For you, does the pro card carry any more responsibility as far as how you portray yourself in the industry?
A: Absolutely! It is like any other professional athlete, whether it be baseball, football, whatever, obviously we aren't paid like those athletes. However, I feel there is a responsibility as far as attitude, being a positive motivating entity is first and foremost. If I was still an amateur I would feel the same way. I think it is driven home a little more, now I have an athlete page and people look at me and ask questions. You need to know what you are talking about, just because you are a pro it doesn't not make you a professional coach or nutritionist. I happen to be a personal trainer but I don't pretend to know anything about nutrition other than the basic nutrition, I know nothing about competition diet, I have a coach for that. I don't want to give out wrong advice and that is where some go wrong. What knowledge you put out there should be backed up with experience and education, not just cause you have a pro card.

Q: Do you know when you want to make your pro debut?
A: I will compete July at the St. Louis Masters show, the St. Louis Naturals and the following week in Sacramento and then take some time and compete in the fall. I am looking at four shows this year.

Q: Where do you need to be better for the pro stage?
A: The quads and lower body all together. My glutes came up nicely towards the end of last year but they can be improved. My quads are my downfall. I have a large bone structure frame. My hips are outside my quad sweep so my sweep needs to be bigger. I am not training shoulders right now, they are massive compared to the rest of my body. I have to tame those down. I need more symmetry.

Q: When you are prepping, is it hard to balance that with being a mother?
A: Yes! The toughest part is that you are tired. I have a nine year old and two year old. The nine year old is pretty self sufficient but the two year old takes a lot of my time and energy. It is demanding the last weeks because my husband travels and I am a single parent during the week. My oldest helps a lot with my younger daughter. It is difficult but it is definitely doable. If you are prepared, you can adjust some things to help with that.

Q: What is the biggest piece of advice you would give someone who is a mother and wants to train more?
A: Incorporate your kids in your workout. I have one pound dumbbells for my two year old and my nine year old works out with me if I cant get to the gym. You can do things at home and get a decent workout and offset that with days you can get to the gym. I have a bosu ball in my basement that the girls like to bounce on. They do their own thing in my presence but pick up the weights to. Include them, don't just say you can't work out cause you have kids. Run in the backyard, make it fun.

Q: If you could spend one day training with someone you have never trained with, who would it be?
A: That is hard. At this moment in time it would have to be Erin Stern.

Q: Anyone you want to thank?
A: My husband first and foremost and my kids. They are my support system and keep me on track. My sponsor, Pro Body Solutions, excellent supplements. Alex Ellis, she is my coach and runs The Complete Package and does it all.

NAAFS Combat Challenge 23 Report

January 26th NAAFS put on their first event of the year, Combat Challenge 23. The night got off to q great start with Anthony Monteleone scoring one of the craziest knockouts ever and kept going from there. In the main event Izzy Williams scored a win, however not in the fashion he wanted, as the doctor stopped it. GriffonRawl had a very good night going 3-1 with Anthony Disantis winning a really good fight, Joe Callari making a statement that he is definitely one of the most improved fighters in the area, and his brother Sammy Callari scored an impressive stoppage.

1. Amateur Lightweight 3x3x3 Rounds
Tony Bonacci (1-0 Mad Dog Fight Team) vs Anthony Monteleone (0-1 Independent)

RD 1: They clinch and takedown by Bonacci into guard. Head shots by Bonacci. Punch to the body by Bonacci. Bonacci gets side control and then his back. Monteleone escapes and they stand clinched and drop back down with Bonacci in mount. Monteleone is working hard to stand but can't. Monteleone defending well. Bonacci gets his back. Monteleone stands and jumps and falls backwards and Bonacci hits his head on the floor and is out cold. Montelone follows it up with two unnecessary punches to the head.

Result: Anthony Monteleone by KO at 2:33 of Round 1

2. Amateur Lightweight 3x3x3 Rounds
Chris Coker (0-0 Cleveland State MMA) vs Cheney Matarrese (0-1 Brickhouse MMA)

RD 1: They trade jabs. They trade hard punches. Coker shoots and they drop down with Matarrese in side control. Head shots by Matarrese. They stand and trade punches. They clinch on the cage. Knee to the body by Coker. Body shots by Coker. They drop down but are up quick. Leg kick by Coker. Coker lands a kick low stopping action. They resume and Matarrese lands a hook and a leg kick. Leg kick by Coker. Body kick by Coker. Leg kick by Coker. They clinch on the cage and drop down in north south. Matarrese gets his back. Head shots by Matarrese. Matarrese gets his hooks in and lands head shots.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Matarrese

RD 2: Coker lands a kick low and is deducted a point. Takedown by Matarrese into side control. Matarrese gets his back and lands head shots. Coker rolls into him and gets on top and then north south. Head shots by Coker. They stand clinched on the cage. Body shots by Coker. Knee to the leg by Coker. Knee to the body by Coker. Matarrese gets a takedown and gets his back. Head shots by Matarrese. Matarrese looks for a rear naked but the round ends.
I scored RD 2: 10-8 Matarrese

RD 3: Leg kick by Coker. Push kick by Matarrese. Leg kick by Matarrese. They trade leg kicks. Body kick by Coker. They trade punches. Matarrese drops for a takedown but Coker sprawls. and lands head shots. Body shots by Coker. Matarrese still is trying to finish the takedown and finally does and is in guard. Coker tries for an arm. Matarrese gets side control and then mount. Punch to the head by Matarrese.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Coker
My score card: 29-27 Matarrese

Result: Cheney Matarrese by Unanimous Decision (30-26/30-26/30-26)

3. Amateur Bantamweight 3x3x3 Rounds
Tyler Ball (0-1 Ohio Valley MMA) vs Jon Reeves (1-0 GriffonRawl)

RD 1: Leg kick by Ball. Jab by Ball. Reeves shoots but Ball sprawls and they clinch on the cage. They trade knees to the leg. Body shots by Reeves. Takedown by Ball into guard. Punch to the body by Ball. Reeves is defending well. Punch to the head by Ball. Body shots by Ball. Reeves is trying hard to stand but Ball pulls him back down. They stand clinched on the cage and drop back down with Ball looking for a guillotine but he can't get it. Reeves is on top in guard and then stands and lets him up. They trade punches. Takedown by Reeves.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Ball

RD 2: Leg kick by Ball and another. Jab by Reeves. They clinch and drop down will Ball looking for a guillotine. Reeves pulls his head out and is in guard. Head shots by Reeves. Body shots by Reeves. Ball tries for an arm but can't get it. Reeves is bleeding from the nose. Ball rolls and gets on top in guard. Head shots from the bottom by Reeves. Body shots by Ball. Ball stands and drops back down into guard.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Reeves

RD 3: Takedown by Ball into guard. Ball stands and lets him up. They trade punches. Takedown by Reeves into half guard. Reeves gets mount and goes for his back but Ball escapes and is on top in guard. Head shots by Ball. Body shots by Ball. Head shots from the bottom by Reeves. The ref stands them. They trade leg kicks. Clinch on the cage and a knee to the body by Reeves. They separate. Cross by Ball. They trade body kicks. Ball lands punches against the cage.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Ball
My score card: 29-28 Ball

Result: Tyler Ball by Split Decision (30-27/27-30/30-27)

4. Amateur Middleweight 3x3x3 Rounds
Justin Rhoads (0-0 Cleveland State MMA) vs Cody Miner (0-0 Independent)

RD 1: They come out trading punches. Rhoads lands hard punches. Leg kick by Rhoads. Rhoads drops him with punches and lands more and Miner taps.

Result: Justin Rhoads by Tapout (Strikes) at :26 of Round 1

5. Amateur Welterweight 3x3x3 Rounds
Ron Richards (1-0 Independent) vs Thaer Zayed (0-0 Wrestling Factory Cleveland)

RD 1: Zayed shoots and gets a takedown into guard. Punch to the head by Zayed. More head shots by Zayed. Zayed gets his back and lands head shots. They stand clinched and trade punches. They move to the cage and Richards is trying for a kimura. Knee to the leg by Zayed and he pulls his arm out. Knee to the body by Zayed. They drop down and Zayed gets mount. Head shots by Zayed. Zayed gets his back and lands head shots. They stand and Zayed hurts him with punches. They clinch and drop down with Zayed in guard.
I scored RD 1: 10-8 Zayed

RD 2: Leg kick by Richards. They clinch and trade knees to the leg. Nice throw by Zayed into side control. Knee to the body by Zayed. Head shots by Zayed. Zayed gets mount and lands punches till the ref stops it.

Result: Thaer Zayed by TKO at 1:15 of Round 2

6. Amateur Lightweight 3x3x3 Rounds
Gabriel De La Cerda (1-2 Garcia MMA) vs Sammy Callari (2-1 GriffonRawl)

RD 1: Cross to the body by Callari. Leg kick by Callari. They trade punches. De La Cerda lands punches on the cage. Leg kick by Callari. Hard leg kick by Callari. They clinch on the cage and trade knees to the leg. Knee to the body by Callari. They separate and Callari lands hard punches. They clinch on the cage. Knee to the leg by Callari. Knee to the body by De La Cerda. Knee to the leg by Callari. They separate and Callari lands punches and has him backing up. More hard punches by Callari drops him and he lands a couple more till the ref stops it.

Result: Sammy Callari by TKO at 2:39 of Round 1

7. Amateur Welterweight 3x3x3 Rounds
Dave Honzu (0-0 Academy of Shorin-Ryu Karate) vs Anthony Disantis (1-0 GriffonRawl)

RD 1: They clinch and move to the cage and quickly separate. They trade punches. Slam by Disantis into side control. Honzu gets half guard. Body shots by Disantis. They stand and drop back down but are up quick still clinched. Takedown by Honzu into guard. Head shots by Honzu. Disantis goes for an armbar and it looks tight but Honzu escapes and is in side control. They stand still clinched on the cage. Disantis looks for a takedown and Honzu lands head shots.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Disantis

RD 2: Honzu throws a kick as they are touching gloves to start the round. They trade punches. Takedown by Disantis into side control. Disantis gets mount but Honzu gets half guard. Heel strikes to the leg from the bottom by Honzu. Honzu goes for a triangle but cant get it. Head shots from the bottom by Honzu. Disantis pushes him against the cage and lands body shots. Disantis stands and drops down punches.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Disantis

RD 3: Honzu lands punches against the cage. Leg kick by Honzu. Honzu drops him with a hook but he is right back up. They clinch and takedown by Disantis into side control. Disantis gets mount. Honzu defends wells. Nice job by Honzu to reverse and get on top in guard. Disantis goes for an armbar but Honzu escapes. Disantis gets a triangle and gets the tap.

Result: Anthony Disantis by Tapout (Triangle) at 2:15 of Round 3

8. Amateur Middleweight 3x3x3 Rounds
Artie Sacco (2-0 Independent) vs Cody Tominack (3-0 Ohio Valley MMA)

RD 1: They come out trading punches. Hard cross by Sacco. Sacco is bleeding bad from the nose. Slam by Tominack into guard. Punch to the head by Tominack. Tominack stands and drops down hard punches. Tominack gets mount and lands hammer fists till the ref stops it.

Result: Cody Tominack by TKO at 1:09 of Round 1

9. Amateur Welterweight 3x3x3 Rounds
Devontai Moore (2-3 True Roots MMA) vs Joe Callari (4-5 GriffonRawl)

RD 1: Leg kick by Callari and another. They trade hooks. Jab by Moore. Hook by Moore. They trade leg kicks. Callari shoots in and takes him down into half guard. They stand still clinched. Takedown by Moore into side control. Moore goes for an arm but Callari pulls it out. Callari goes for a triangle. Moore stands and Callari still has the triangle while upside down hanging from Moore but finally has to let it go. Moore drops down punches.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Moore

RD 2: Body kick by Callari. Hard leg kick by Callari. They trade punches. Leg kick by Callari and another. Body kick by Callari. Callari shoots in and gets a takedown into half guard. Moore looks for a guillotine but can't get it. Body shots by Callari. Head shots by Callari. Body shots by Callari. They ref stands them. Hook by Moore. Leg kick by Callari. Callari shoots and gets a takedown.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Callari

RD 3: Body kick by Callari. Leg kick by Moore. Leg kick by Callari and another. Jab to the body by Moore. Leg kick by Callari. Hook to the body by Callari. Callari shoots in and gets a takedown against the cage. Moore is deducted a point for holding the cage. Head shots by Callari. Callari moves to half guard and then gets side control and lands head shots.
I scored RD 3: 10-8 Callari
My score card: 29-27 Callari

Result: Joe Callari by Unanimous Decision (29-27/29-27/29-27)

10. Amateur Lightweight 3x3x3 Rounds
Nate Mango (12-9 Team Family) vs Izzy Williams (3-1 Evolve MMA)

RD 1: They trade jabs. Leg kick by Williams. Jab to the body by Williams. Hook by Mango. Push kick by Williams. Williams drops him with a cross but lets him up. Leg kick by Williams. Jab to the body by Williams. Mango gets poked in the eye stopping action. They resume and Williams lands a hook and leg kick. Leg kick by Williams. Williams loses his balance and falls down and Mango drops down punches. Williams is able to stand. Mango takes him down but Williams stands and then takes Mango down.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Williams

RD 2: The doctor stops the fight due to Mango's eye being scratched too bad.

Result: Izzy Williams by Doctors Stoppage at 3:00 of Round 1

Submission of the Night: Anthony Disantis

Knockout of the Night: Anthony Monteleone

Fight of the Night: Dave Honzu vs Anthony Disantis

Kimberly Gordon Interview

Photo Credits:
Photos 2-3: Thomas Gaughan Photography
Photos 4-5: RX Muscle



Kimberly Gordon is one of those few people who I see one photo, do not know her, but immediately I know I have to ask her for an interview. I was so impressed by what I saw. She is relatively new to competing, but is someone I see really making waves and accomplishing a great deal in the sport.

Q: Can you talk about how you got started in the gym?
A: I pretty much started weight training in high school. It was something we did in the off-season for volleyball. In the off-season they tried to make sure you were still working out. It wasn't anything crazy, for the most part just your typical weight training routine. There was no powerlifting, just teaching you the basics of how to lift weights.

Q: Was there something specific about it that appealed to you?
A: I would say one of my favorite things was the fact that I have always been on a team where I have always been the smallest girl, especially for volleyball, I am surrounded by all these girls who are 5'10' or taller, I am 5'6 1/2". So what was awesome to me and kept me motivated is that even though I was the smallest girl on the team, I was usually lifting as much weight as everyone else or more. I was extremely strong and powerful for my size.

Q: What made you want to compete?
A: After college, I have always been competitive, I went to a kickboxing gym because I wanted some sort of exercise. A lady that worked at the gym approached me and told me I had a great physique for competition. Her name is Jocelyn Baum and she was an NPC figure competitor. I had talked with her and she showed me her pictures. I had been reading Oxygen Magazine here and there and seeing pictures of women who competed and always wanted to get into it but didn't know how. So when she told me I had good muscle tone and a good physique it made me excited and I trained with her and it went from there.

Q: Why bikini?
A: In the beginning I wanted to do figure. I had trained with her for a few months and was getting lean. She told me she "I have never trained a girl for a competition and would feel more comfortable referring you to my trainer", who was Kim Oddo. Within five minutes of meeting him he told me my frame was too small for figure and that I would be more successful in bikini. I actually agreed, I have a hard time putting muscle mass on my body and bikini matches my body much better.

Q: A lot of people hear bikini and think T&A, did you have to explain to people it was fitness and not some bikini show?
A: Definitely! When you tell people "I compete in bikini" they think "is this a Hooters bikini contest?" I don't know what it is, when you say bikini competition, people don't understand it has anything to do with bodybuilding or fitness. Anyone I tell I am bikini competitor I have to explain the entire thing to them.

Q: Were you nervous the first time?
A: I definitely had a lot of anxiety going into it. The night before you go to check-ins and see all the girls you are competing against and that pushed my anxiety to an all-time high. It is like "am I small enough, am I coming in tight enough?" And I had never done a show so I didn't know what to expect. The day of the competition, I competed with a girl I had met and she talked me through the whole thing and calmed my nerves. I walked on stage and forgot all about it and had so much fun. I remember walking off stage and telling her it was more fun that I thought it would be.

Q: A lot of people I interview say that after the first show it becomes like an addiction for them, was that the case for you?
A: Right after it I was definitely amped to do more. I guess I would kind of agree with that. I placed second and was so amped to keep going. It made me feel good that all the hard worked paid off. It was a real exciting moment.

Q: In June you took second at the West Coast Classic, how satisfied were you with that?
A: It is funny that you ask. That show was difficult to do. My training and everything was great, I felt really good about how my body looked. I had put on a substantial amount of muscle which I was really proud about because I have a hard time putting muscle on. Three days before the competition, my boyfriend had a seizure and we found he had a mass in his brain. I had the hardest time getting my head in the game. He was in the hospital for an entire week. He said he wanted me to do the competition so I did. My anxiety, everything was just through the roof. I couldn't enjoy myself because I had so much on my mind. Even though I am more than happy with how I placed, right when I walked on stage, I was ten times more nervous than the first show. I remember feeling like I completely forgot what I needed to do, my mind wasn't there.

Q: That makes it more impressive that from photos, you looked incredibly confident, knowing the answer to the last question, do you look at pictures and say "how did I pull that off?"
A: Honestly, yes! I think about it now and even friends ask how I did that show. The week before a contest, with your hormones, you are all over the place. I joke with my friends and tell them that is when my crazy comes out. You are stressed and nerves are all over the place. I felt so uneasy at that show. When I looked at pictures I think "man, I have a major bitch face in some but in others I look like I am having fun." I was so proud that I did it, it was a goal, I may not have had the best experience but it was a surreal experience.

Q: Do you know when you want to compete next?
A: I am planning to do the March 23rd Governor's Cup. Then I am planning on hitting the national stage this year. Probably one or two more, I just haven't picked out all the National shows.

Q: From the last show, where do you need to be better for the next one?
A: The judges, and I agree, say it is to tighten my hamstrings and glutes. In my opinion my glutes looked way better for my second show because I added more muscle there. I definitely know my hamstrings are my lagging body part. It is the hardest muscle for me to build and tone. I am focusing on that for this show.

Q: Would you ever consider figure?
A: I wouldn't rule it out. I would love to do figure, it is awesome. I would have to find a coach, I wouldn't know where to start. I have a hard time putting muscle on so I would have to find someone that could focus on getting me to that point. I wouldn't rule it out.

Q: When you are in the gym, do you get a lot of attention or stares?
A: When I first started I did. I don't mind people starring, cause for the most part it is "wow, she trains hard" and I am o.k. with that. It is motivating. You have the occasional guy interrupt with a cheesy pick-up line, which is not my thing. I have been at the same gym for two years so I know most of the people and they know I am there to train. For the most part people don't bother me. But you do get the newbees who come up and say "I am sorry to interrupt but...." I find that so annoying.

Q: If you could spend one day training with any person you never trained with, who would it be?
A: Dana Linn Bailey. Dana is so awesome. Her and her husband are hilarious. She posts the most gnarly workout videos. You know she would kick your ass and I love that.

Q: Anyone you want to thank?
A: My boyfriend Joe has always supported me and been here for me. Before every competition when I get a little crazy, he is understanding and supporting and by my side. He is very proud of me. I love knowing my being active in fitness helps him be healthy and active as well. My business partner Natasha who is also a competitor. My last show, she was there for me every day. She has been nothing short of amazing and I am blessed to have her in my life. Also, Tiffany Gaughan, she is the girl who kept me calm the first show. She is so great about complimenting you. I can always go to her for advice and she has the perfect thing to say. A really amazing friend. Her and Natasha are so great to me.

Elite 1 MMA: Unstoppable Report

1. Amateur Light Heavyweight 3x3x3 Rounds
Trent Moses (1-0) vs Cass Jacques (2-4)

RD 1: Jab and body kick by Moses. They clinch and a takedown by Moses into side control. Moses looks for a choke from the position. Body shots from the bottom by Jacques. Moses gets his back. Jacques grabs the fence to stand is isn't warned. Moses lands hard shots against the cage and has Jacques backing up. More hard shots by Moses and he tries for a double leg. Knee to the body by Jacques. Slam by Moses into side control.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Moses

RD 2: Moses shoots and gets a takedown into side control. Jacques gets half guard and then full guard. Moses lifts him and slams him. Moses moves to side control and then mount and then gets his back. Moses looks for a rear naked. Jacques tries to fight it off. Moses flattens him out and keeps going for the choke and gets it for the tap.

Result: Trent Moses by Tapout (Rear Naked Choke) at 2:35 of Round 2

2. Amateur Featherweight 3x3x3 Rounds
Luke Noel (2-6) vs Just MacCallum (0-0)

RD 1: MacCallum catches a kick and takes him down but they are up quick clinched on the cage. Takedown by MacCallum into side control. Body shots by MacCallum. Noel gets half guard. Body shots by MacCallum. Noel goes for an arm but can't get it. MacCallum stands and drops into guard. Noel goes for an arm and MacCallum moves to side control. Body shots by MacCallum. Noel sweeps and gets on top in guard. MacCallum then sweeps and gets back on top and lands body shots.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 MacCallum

RD 2: MacCallum catches a kick and they clinch on the cage. Noel looks for a guillotine. MacCallum escapes it. Takedown by Noel but they are right back up clinched on the cage. Knee to the leg by Noel. The ref separates them. Leg kick by Noel. They clinch and move to the cage. Knee to the leg by Noel and another. Knee to the body by Noel. Body shots by MacCallum. They separate. MacCallum looks tired. They clinch and move to the cage but separate. Head kick by Noel hurts him and he lands a punch and the ref stops it.

Result: Luke Noel by TKO at 2:55 of Round 2

3. Amateur Welterweight 3x3x3 Rounds
Ryan Cameron (1-0) vs Tyler Bridges (0-1)

RD 1: Body kick by Cameron. They clinch on the cage. Takedown by Bridges but Cameron gets on top in mount. Bridges gets half guard and goes for a leg but can't get it. Cameron gets in side control and then stands and lets him up. They trade jabs. Body kick by Cameron. Cameron hurts him with punches. They clinch on the cage and quickly separate. Cross by Cameron. They clinch on the cage. Body shots by Cameron. Takedown by Bridges into guard. Punch to the body by Bridges. The ref stands them. Hard cross by Cameron.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Cameron

RD 2: Body kick and cross by Cameron. They trade punches. Body kick by Cameron. Takedown by Bridges into guard. Body shots by Bridges. Cameron gets a triangle and gets the tap.

Result: Ryan Cameron by Tapout (Triangle) at 1:10 of Round 2

4. Pro Bantamweight 5x5x5 Rounds
Jon Foster (0-0) vs Morgan Rhynes (1-0)

RD 1: Hook by Rhynes. Body kick by Rhynes and another. Another body kick by Rhynes. Leg kick by Rhynes. They trade leg kicks. Body kick by Rhynes. They trade punches. They clinch on the cage and Foster looks for a guillotine. Knee to the body by Foster and they separate. Rhynes hurts him with punches. They trade punches. Cross by Rhynes. They clinch and quickly separate. Head kick by Rhynes. They clinch and Foster looks for a guillotine. They trade knees to the leg. Knee to the body by Foster. Knee to the leg by Foster. They separate and Foster falls down. Rhynes kicks at his legs and then falls into half guard and lands head shots. Elbows to the head by Rhynes till the ref stops it.

Result: Morgan Rhynes by TKO at 4:46 of Round 1

5. Pro Light Heavyweight 5x5x5 Rounds
Brian Mazerolle (1-4) vs Matthew DesRoches (2-0)

RD 1: Leg kick by DesRoches. Jab by Mazerolle. They trade punches. Leg kick by Mazerolle. They trade hooks. Hook by DesRoches. Cross by DesRoches. They trade hard punches. Leg kick by DesRoches. Hook by DesRoches. They clinch on the cage. Knee to the head by DesRoches. They separate and trade punches. They clinch on the cage. Mazerolle holds the cage to avoid a takedown and is not warned. The trade knees to the leg. Knee to the body by Mazerolle. They separate and DesRoches lands hard punches and the clinch on the cage. Knee to the leg by Mazerolle. They separate. DesRoches lands several punches. Leg kick by DesRoches. Cross by DesRoches. Mazerolle is bleeding from the nose. They clinch on the cage. Knee to the body by DesRoches. Punches to the head by DesRoches. They separate. Knee to the body by DesRoches. They clinch on the cage. Knee to the body by DesRoches. Elbow to the head by DesRoches. Knee to the leg by Mazerolle. They separate. DesRoches lands punches and drops him but the round ends.
I scored RD 1: 10-8 DesRoches

RD 2: The ref stops it saying Mazerolle can't continue.

Result: Matthew DesRoches by TKO at :01 of Round 2

6. Pro Welterweight 5x5x5 Rounds
Maverick Cowx (0-0) vs Joshua Allen (3-0)

RD 1: They trade punches. Takedown by Cowx into guard. Cowx pushes him to the cage and lands head shots. They stand and clinch on the cage. Body shots by Cowx. Takedown by Allen into mount. Nice escape by Cowx to get on top in guard. Elbow to the head by Cowx. Punches to the head by Cowx. They stand. Cross by Allen. They clinch and drop down and Cowx gets his back and lands head shots till the ref stops it.

Result: Maverick Cowx by TKO at 2:37 of Round 1

7. Pro Lightweight 5x5x5 Rounds
Mike Thorne (0-0) vs Brandon Chaisson (0-0)

RD 1: They trade jabs. They clinch on the cage. Takedown by Chaisson into guard. Elbow to the head by Chaisson. They stand still clinched on the cage. Thorne tries for a takedown by eats head shots. Takedown by Thorne into guard. Body shots by Thorne. Thorne moves to half guard and lands body shots. They stand still clinched. Knee to the body by Thorne. They separate. Jab and cross by Chaisson. Push kick by Chaisson. Jab by Thorne. Nice throw by Chaisson into side control. Thorne tries for an arm but can't get it. Knee to the body by Chaisson. They stand still clinched. Two knees to the body by Thorne. Knee to the body by Chaisson. They move to the cage. Takedown by Thorne into guard. Thorne moves to half guard. Thorne gets mount and lands head shots.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Thorne

RD 2: They trade jabs. They clinch int eh center. Knee to the body by Chaisson. They move to the cage. They trade knees to the body and then separate. Hook by Thorne. Thorne shoots but Chaisson sprawls and they clinch on the cage. Takedown by Chaisson into mount and he lands head shots. Chaisson gets his back. Punch to the head by Chaisson. More head shots by Chaisson. Chaisson tries for an arm but Thorne escapes and is on top in guard. Thorne moves to half guard and lands short head shots. More head shots by Thorne. Chaisson gets full guard. Body shots by Thorne. Thorne moves to side control and lands head shots. Elbows to the head by Thorne. Thorne gets mount and lands head shots. Thorne traps an arm and lands more head shots.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Thorne

RD 3: They trade jabs. Cross by Chaisson. Hook by Chaisson. Leg kick by Chaisson. They clinch on the cage. Chaisson holds the fence to avoid a takedown and is not warned. Thorne gets a takedown into half guard. Thorne moves to side control and then mount. Elbows to the head by Thorne. Short head shots by Thorne. More head shots by Thorne. Nice job by Chaisson to reverse and get on top but Thorne hooks a triangle and gets the tap.

Result: Mike Thorne by Tapout (Triangle) at 2:31 of Round 3

8. Pro Middleweight 5x5x5 Rounds
Todd Westcott (1-3) vs Dan Fowler (5-5)

RD 1: Leg kick by Fowler. They trade leg kicks. Takedown by Fowler into guard. Fowler moves to half guard. They trade body shots. Fowler gets an arm triangle and puts him to sleep.

Result: Dan Fowler by Technical Submission (Arm Triangle) at 1:20 of Round 1

9. Pro Welterweight 5x5x5 Rounds
Mark Holst (11-4) vs Matt McGrath (11-8)

RD 1: McGrath shoots in and gets a takedown into guard. Head shots by McGrath. Holst defends well. Punch to the head by McGrath. Punch to the head from the bottom by Holst. Body shots by McGrath. Head shots by McGrath. More body shots by McGrath. McGrath stands and drops down punches and gets back in guard. Punch to the head from the bottom by Holst. Head shots by McGrath. The ref stands them. Hard cross by Holst. Hook by McGrath.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 McGrath

RD 2: They clinch and move to the cage. Takedown by McGrath into guard. Head shots by McGrath. Body shots by McGrath. McGrath stands and drops down and punch and gets back in guard. The ref stands them. Leg kick by Holst. Takedown by McGrath into guard. Elbow to the head from the bottom by Holst. Head shots from the bottom by Holst. The ref stands them. Cross by Holst. Holst drops him with a cross and gets on top and lands more punches from half guard. More head shots by Holst. Holst gets mount and lands head shots. Holst stands and lets him up. Holst drops him with a knee to the body but lets him up. They trade punches.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Holst

RD 3: Leg kick by Holst. They trade punches. Clinch on the cage. Takedown by McGrath into guard. Body shots by McGrath. Elbow to the head by McGrath. Body shots by McGrath. Elbow to the head by McGrath. Body shots by McGrath. Head shots by McGrath. McGrath stands and drops down a punch and then gets in guard. Elbow to the head by McGrath. Had shots by McGrath. The ref stands them. Clinch in the center and Holst lands a knee to the body. They drop down with Holst looking for a heel hook. Holst gets on top in side control. McGrath goes for an arm and sweeps to get on top in guard. Head shots from the bottom by Holst. The ref stands them. Jab by Holst. Hook by Holst. Takedown by McGrath into guard. Body shots by McGrath.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 McGrath
My score card: 29-28 McGrath

Result: Matt McGrath by Unanimous Decision (29-28/29-28/29-28)

Submission of the Night: Mike Thorne

Knockout of the Night: Luke Noel

Fight of the Night: Mike Thorne vs Brandon Chaisson

IFPA Pro Melissa Johnson Interview

Photo Credits:
Photos 1-3: Chinga Moalusi Photography


After starting at the gym at an early age, Melissa Johnson knew she had found something she loved. So much so that she became a pro bodybuilder. For reasons she discusses in this interview, she stopped competing, only to return this year and again win her pro card, this time in the figure division. Set to make her pro debut in May, if she makes the improvements she knows she needs to make, I expect she might really make a splash quick in the pro division.

Q: Can you talk about how you got started in the gym?
A: It was kind of on a whim. My sister had just gotten engaged and wanted to get in shape for her wedding. I was sixteen and she needed a workout partner. I ended up starting training with her and I fell in love with it in the first two weeks. I loved how my body felt and I was seeing changes in my body.

Q: When you first started would you have ever imagined taking it to the level you have?
A: Never! I actually started competing within four years after I started. It took a drastic turn really quick. I just knew I wanted to do it. When I started I just wanted to look good haha.

Q: What made you want to compete?
A: When I was nineteen I saw this girl in my gym, she was a trainer. She was a bodybuilder. I saw her transform her body in twelve weeks, she wasn't fat, but just an amazing transformation in twelve weeks. I thought to myself "I wanna do that to my body." I thought it was the neatest thing to see someone have such discipline and do what she did. I was hooked.

Q: A lot of people I interview say that after that first show it becomes addicting for them, was that the case for you?
A: It definitely was! Part of it was I was striving to be better. My first show I didn't do well at all. I just got this itch to get better and better. I saw all these girls on stage who looked better than me and I strived to look as good as they did.

Q: Was anything surprising to you about competing?
A: Maybe a little bit about how diet plays a role. I didn't know it was crucial and how different each diet is for each person. I thought it was cookie cutter. I knew you had to workout hard and had that down, but the diet was a shock to me at the beginning.

Q: You had taken some time off before returning this year, why did you take the time off?
A: I started out in bodybuilding. I got up to the pre-qualifier for National level. To qualify I had to get bigger. I was up to one-seventy on my off-season and didn't wanna be that big anymore. Since I am so tall it takes a lot to put a lot of muscle on me. I decided to stop and live a normal life. I wanted to take time off and see where life would take me. I continued to workout and eat healthy but I just didn't know where I wanted to go with it. Figure came out and got popular and I thought it would be perfect for me. My body is perfect for that. I didn't wanna be big and bulky anymore, I wanted to be lean and muscular. It worked out.

Q: How did you know now was the time to come back?
A: I had been wanting to come back for a year. The timing wasn't good. I started to get more serious about it. I didn't feel ready in my physique so I spent time figuring out if I would be able to do well. I didn't want to be the person to do it half way, I wanna be my best and that is why I waited.

Q: Outside of quarter turns as opposed to posing, what is the biggest difference between the two?
A: The training is not really different. I don't lift max like with bodybuilding. I train with the same intensity but it's not about how much I can lift anymore. I get to do higher reps now. And the heels haha.

Q: You got your IFPA pro card in October at the Gateway Naturals, did you expect it so quick?
A: I was hoping. I chose that show on purpose. It is one of the biggest in the area and I knew it brought good competitors and I would have to be on top of my game. When I showed up I was really nervous and I am not usually the nervous type. The first time I won my pro card it was whatever happens happens. This time was different because I had already been there and felt I had big shoes to fill. So I was nervous. I didn't expect it but I was hoping for it. If I didn't I planned to get it by the end of the year, ready to do another show, I was bound and determined.

Q: Obviously judges were happy but how happy were you with what you brought to the stage?
A:I am very happy with what I brought to the stage but I always feel there is room for improvement. I was looking last night at the pictures and thinking I need bigger shoulders. I could have waited to come back and build my shoulders, but I am very pleased with how I looked. It is the best I have ever looked.

Q: Have you decided when to make your pro debut?
A: Yes! My pro debut will be May 10th at the IFPA Pro North Americans in Minnesota.

Q: Is there one area you need to improve for the pro stage?
A: Yes, it is definitely my shoulders. I feel like the rest of my body can keep up. I have an injury in my neck and it scares me when I lift upper body and sometimes it holds me back.

Q: When you are working to improve a specific area, how much extra work do you do on it?
A: A lot! I train shoulders twice a week. I train shoulders and legs twice a week to keep my legs looking how they are and I would like to add a little mass. I do a heavy shoulder day and a more focused day on like laterals and rear delts.

Q: For the pro stage do you expect to be more nervous?
A: I do! But I feel like this is a new venture for me, I have never done a pro show. I need to relax and take it all in and enjoy the experience. It isn't like an amateur show where you can look at all the girls and go "I can win", it is a whole new venture. I feel blessed to experience it and hope for the best. If someone beats me with a better physique, that is the way it goes.

Q: In the gym, do you get a lot of attention or stares?
A: I do. I got a lot when I trained for my last show. I don't mind it. It doesn't seem to be bad. Some weird stares from girls who think I am too muscular, but not too many guys do and a lot were impressed with it.

Q: If you could spend one day training with someone you have never trained with, who would it be?
A: It would have to be Erin Stern. She is an amazing athlete and person. Her training is different from most figure athletes. She has improved her physique so much.

Q: Anyone you want to thank?
A: My sponsor A1Supplements.com, I write a blog on their forum every day of my workouts and am featured in their ads and am really blessed to have them. Also I am sponsored by Forbidden Creations Posing Suits and will be rocking her suits this year. Also, my coach Alex Ellis, she is my nutritionist and posing coach and has been the light at the end of my tunnel and changed my body tremendously. We are part of a team, TCP The Complete Package, and she does everything fro show prep, tanning to hair to makeup. We are getting bigger and bigger every day. She has been my savior and I love her.