Silver Star Expands Product Offering With New MMA Gloves

Silver Star is a name that has popped up a lot here on PreviouslyViewed and on various MMA blogs and websites around the world. They sponsor a number of the top-level fighters in MMA today and have released some of the most popular products out there, including their line of excellent signature shirts.

However, Silver Star has taken their game to the next level with the release of MMA fight gloves. I recently published a press release sent to me by Silver Star. To read up on the gloves, head over to the release on Pro MMA Now.

Enjoy.


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Wanderlei Silva Signs Deal With Silver Star Casting Company

Silver Star Casting Company has added yet another impressive fighter to their list - Wanderlei Silva. Silver Star will be sponsoring Silva in his upcoming fight against Michael Bisping at UFC 110. For more on the story, check out the press release over on ProMMA.info.

Enjoy.

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For gloves and gear from the world's best brands, head over to EliteMMA.com - Gear for fighters.


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Previously Viewed Welcomes New Advertiser

I am happy to welcome Elite MMA as the newest advertiser on Previously Viewed.

Elite MMA brings you gloves and gear from the world's best brands - gear for fighters. Elite MMA features gear and clothing from some of the sport's top manufacturers including Combat Sports, Everlast, Sprawl, TapouT, Atama, Throwdown, Fairtex, Windy Muay Thai, KD Elite, Shock Doctor, Ringside, and Top Contender.

You'll notice Elite MMA banners and links throughout the site. Make sure to check them out!

They are even running a special right now - Free shipping on all orders over $79.

Enjoy.



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Forrest Griffin Signs Sponsorship Deal With Silver Star

Silver Star Casting Company has added another great fighter to their ranks with the announcement of Forrest Griffin as their newest sponsored MMA fighter.

Forrest will be wearing Silver Star gear as he walks to the cage to meet Tito Ortiz in an anticipated rematch at UFC 106.

For more information, check out the press release sent to me by Silver Star, posted on ProMMA.info.

Enjoy.


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iBN Sports and ProMMA.info Announce Partnership

iBN Sports and ProMMA.info have announced a strategic partnership that will meld the high-quality video and broadcasting capabilities of iBN with the top-notch MMA interviews, news, and commentary.

It is an excellent arrangement for both sites, and exclusive video content from iBN is already up and running on ProMMA.info.

For the full press release, head over to ProMMA.info.

Enjoy.

-PreView

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Silver Star Casting Company Voted into Finals of World MMA Awards

Silver Star Casting Company has been voted into the finals of the World MMA Awards.

For the full press release, head over to my post on PROMMA.INFO.

Enjoy.


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Crown of Vengeance Pre-Order Announcement, Book Synopsis, and Exclusive Images

My good friend Stephen Zimmer, author, filmmaker, a true modern day renaissance man, has given me an opportunity that I am honored to take advantage of. For those of you who may have missed it, Zimmer wrote The Exodus Gate, an excellent read and the first book in the epic fantasy series, The Rising Dawn Saga.

With plans to release the second book in the series in 2010, Zimmer has stayed busy with a book tour, multiple convention appearances, and signings, not to mention that he has authored a book in a completely new series, that can be pre-ordered now.

The opportunity that Zimmer has given me is to be one of a limited number of bloggers to release some exclusive information on the book as well the cover art (pictured to the right), and an exclusive image you won't see anywhere else (pictured after the jump). Each blogger chosen for this limited press release has been given a separate image.

For all of the information now available on the book and how to pre-order one of 100 very special limited edition copies, check after the jump.


First, enjoy this synopsis of Crown of Vengeance, the first book in the new series, Fires in Eden.

Begin an Epic Journey...

On a night that begins no different from any other, strange mists engulf
Janus Roland, Erika Laesig, Mershad Shahab, and several others going about their lives in a quiet midwestern town. When the mist dissipates, they
all find themselves looking up into the bright skies of a new, incredible
world.

Without explanation of why it has happened, or any notion of where they
are, they embark upon a grand adventure within the fantastical world of
Ave. Some find themselves in the lands of the Saxan Kingdom, while others
have emerged within the lands of the Onan, one of the tribes in the Five
Realms confederation.

Storms of war loom over both Saxany and the Five Realms, as invasion
forces mass under the inspiration of The Unifier, a mysterious,
captivating figure whose influence has swept across the surface of Ave
ever since His rise to power in the Gallean duchy of Avanor. It is a war
that will be fought in the skies, upon the seas, on land, and even in
places non-physical in nature.

A majestic, epic fantasy that begins many adventures and journeys across a
diverse and enthralling world, filled with races and creatures both
familiar and new, Crown of Vengeance lights the flame of the Fires in Eden
series, bringing to life a bold, far-ranging, and grand new venture within
the realms of fantasy literature.

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Also, here is all the info you'll need to pre-order the book and find more information on the book as well as the publisher and Zimmer himself.

Seventh Star Press proudly announces the release of Crown of Vengeance,
the first book in the new epic fantasy series Fires in Eden, by author
Stephen Zimmer (The Exodus Gate).

To commemorate the forthcoming release, publisher Seventh Star Press is
offering pre-order packages for Crown of Vengeance, including a very
special, limited edition hardcover version that is strictly limited to 100
copies.

To ensure full authenticity, the limited edition hardcover will be
hand-numbered and signed by Stephen Zimmer, and also signed by editor
Amanda DeBord and illustrator/cover artist Matt Perry. It will include an
extra illustration, and designation plate as a limited edition within the
book.

Both the limited edition hardcover and first edition trade paperback
pre-orders come with a special package of collectibles, including a
numbered set of art cards, a collectible set of 12 bookmarks, and a full
color poster of the cover art.

Information on the pre-ordering options can be found at the new site for
the Fires In Eden series, located at www.firesineden.com

For information on the publisher visit www.seventhstarpress.com, and for
the author visit www.stephenzimmer.com.

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And finally, for the exclusive image of the character, "The Wanderer", at this time available only to readers of Previously Viewed:


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Thank you again to Stephen for allowing me to be a part of this release. I hope you all take advantage of this opportunity to pre-order what is sure to be another great work from Zimmer.

Enjoy.

PreView




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Hardrock MMA to Host First Women's Professional MMA Fight in Kentucky at Hardrock MMA 13: The Girls Are Back (9/8/09)

From a Press Release:

(Elizabethtown, KY) – After putting on an exciting night of fights in front of the largest crowd in Hardrock MMA history at Hardrock MMA 12: Night of Champions, Hardrock MMA will make history again as it hosts the first women’s professional MMA fight in Kentucky at Hardrock MMA 13: The Girls Are Back.

The main event will feature a rematch between Hardrock MMA promoter and professional fighter Vanessa Bohleber-Higdon vs. Heather Corder. The pair’s first match, as amateurs, ended with Vanessa scoring a win via referee stoppage due to ground and pound just 32 seconds into the first round.

Featured on the women’s MMA reality series Fight Life, and training under Josh Johnson out of Etown BJJ and Judo, Bohleber-Higdon pulls double duty as both a promoter and professional fighter. “It’s nice to be in the first women’s professional fight in Kentucky,” said Bohleber-Higdon. “I think it’s great we’re hosting the first women’s professional fight. We’ve had a lot of pro fights on our cards lately and it puts us above the average promotion that puts on amateur fights here and there. I’m not taking Heather lightly. I’m prepared for anything, and even though I won the first one early, I’m not taking her lightly because it could go any way.”

Sponsored by Heart Fight Gear, Heather Corder is looking forward to the rematch. “I think it’s great being part of the first women’s pro fight in Kentucky,” said Corder. “I think if you have the chance, everybody should do it [fight MMA]. Women are just as tough as men. I like Vanessa, but once we get in the cage it’s a different story. I have been hitting the gym everyday, twice a day, and my game has tightened up a lot.”

In addition to the main event, the card will feature two other professional fights and fifteen amateur fights showcasing some of the best talent the area has to offer with fighters from Etown Beatdown, 4 Seasons, Team Warhammer, Team Animal, Team No Mercy, Hayse Team Extreme and several others.

Hardrock MMA 13: The Girls Are Back will happen Saturday, September 12, 2009 at the Elizabethtown National Guard Armory. Discounted advanced tickets are on sale through www.HardRockFight.com and Hero’s Sports Cards. VIP tickets are also still available. Doors open at 6:30 PM and the bouts start at 8:00 PM.

Sponsorships are still available for some of the professional fighters competing that night, as well as for the Hardrock MMA promotion. For sponsorship inquiries, questions, or to order VIP tickets, contact Brandon Higdon at 270-307-7312 or visit www.HardRockFight.com.

The Fight Card

Steven Drake vs Ricky Rye
Jason Clack vs Scott Roberts
Nathan Boatman or Wesley Stanley vs Carl Sandlin
James Douglass vs Steven Jenkins
Jeremy Philpot vs Doug Ballinger
Justin Collett vs Brian Tipton or David Willoughby
David Ward vs Jeff Brewster
James Benton vs Josh Smith
Michael Smith vs Jason Langley
Tyler Davis vs Keith Goggins
William Sandlin vs Andrew Terry
Brian Smith vs Ben Smith or Todd Stricklin
Joshua Franklin vs Andrew Becker
Justin Higdon vs "Razor" Rob Thompson
Cody Bruce vs Brandon DeWitt
Donnie Wallace vs Brandon Howard (PRO)
Jerry Burns vs Bo Huitt (PRO)

MAIN EVENT
Heather Corder vs Vanessa Bohleber (PRO)

About Hardrock MMA

Hardrock Promotions LLC puts on shows as one of Kentucky's fasting growing MMA promotions - Hardrock MMA. Showcasing professional and amateurs fighters from around the country, Hardrock MMA works hard to provide MMA fans with the best regional fights available. Run by Promoter and Women's MMA fighter Vanessa Bohleber-Higdon, and Fight Matchmaker Brandon "Hardrock" Higdon, Hardrock MMA has close ties with some of the best fighters and fight teams around the state.




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My New Writing Gig - PRO MMA

As I mentioned in my most recent post, FightTicker.com is shutting down effective this Saturday, September 26, 2009. However, I wanted to let you all know that my blogging will still continue. I have joined the top-notch staff over at PROMMA.info, an excellent MMA site.

More info after the jump.

PRO MMA is a great MMA site. I first ran into site President/Owner Jack Bratcher and site VP/Editor Denny Hodge at an XFC show in Knoxville. We had some good discussions that night on the XFC show and the state of MMA blogging and reporting. Then, I met PRO MMA staff writer Dusty Adams at an RFL show in Indiana. I'd planned on live blogging that show but when I arrived was asked to commentate. I jumped at the chance, but needed a second man to play the Joe Rogan to my Mike Goldberg (or vice versa). I happened to run into Dusty, there to cover the show for PRO MMA, so I asked if he'd like to give me a hand and we did an excellent job commentating the show (if I do say so myself).

When I learned that FightTicker might be shutting down, I started making inquiries with some sites who were looking for writers and with some sites who had previously contacted me about writing for them. Ultimately, I decided that PRO MMA would be the best fit for me, and I am really excited about this new opportunity.

I do have some things to learn in terms of posting format and other logistical issues but I am hitting the ground running.

I will continue to do the live coverage of all of the shows I normally go to, as well as provide you with the best in regional and national MMA news, commentary, product reviews, and original content. I have some great things in the works right now, including some previously announced product reviews including Brandon Quick's 3-DVD set called Fade to Black, and some great products recently sent to me by Victory Belt. Additionally, mine and Puddin's radio show, Cageside Seats, will be up and running full swing again in the very near future, after I sort out some of the technical details.

And that's just me - PRO MMA already has a number of great writers and big things are happening with the site, including a blog from TUF 10 competitor Justin Wren. Wren will be posting weekly updates on his experiences on TUF, and his first entry is already in the books. You can check that out here.

I'm really happy to be part of the PRO MMA crew. It's going to be a lot of fun and I'm looking forward to contributing what I can to PRO MMA's already strong staff.

-PreView

EDIT: I edited the article to correctly note that Cageside Seats is not just my radio show, but mine and Puddin's :)


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Silver Star to Sponsor Lyoto Machida at UFC 104

During a recent episode of Cageside Seats, Luke Burrett, co-owner of Silver Star Casting Company told me that his biggest goal was for Silver Star to sponsor one of the main event fighters in every UFC event over the next year.

Having already signed some of the biggest names in the fight game, Burrett has added another huge one to Silver Star's list.

From the Press Release:

Lyoto “The Dragon” Machida will defend his light heavyweight championship under a Silver Star sponsorship in UFC 104 at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California, October 24, 2009.

Machida (15-0-0) who won the light heavyweight champion title in UFC 98, will represent Silver Star in the octagon with a signature walkout tee as he defends his crown against Mauricio “Shogun” Rua (18-3-0) in the co-feature event.

“Silver Star is built for champions and Machida is a true champion in and out of the ring,” said Silver Star owner, Luke Burrett. “Machida sets the bar high, and is someone MMA fans can look up to.”

Silver Star Casting Company is an “in demand” lifestyle clothing brand with an innovative style. Based in the apparel hub of So. California, Silver Star delivers trend setting merchandise to retailers nationwide. Seen on athletes and celebrities alike the brand is available through Macy’s, Dillard’s, Tilly’s, Journey’s, Pac Sun, and more. In over 3,000 doors nationally and over 45 countries globally, Silver Star has been defining and setting apparel trends for over 16 years.


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Silver Star Stacks the UFC 103 Fight Card

Silver Star Casting Company is yet again stacking the UFC deck with guys wearing their shirts for this weekend's UFC 103 event.

Silver Star has announced sponsorships of three fighters on the card - Rich Franklin, Frank Trigg and Rob Emerson.

From the Press Release:

(IRVINE, CA) – Rich “Ace” Franklin, Frank “Twinkle Toes” Trigg and Rob “The Saint” Emerson will be sponsored by Silver Star Casting Company with signature walkout tees for UFC 103 on September 19, 2009 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas.

Silver Star has sponsored a minimum of one fighter for every UFC fight since UFC 94 where Georges St. Pierre won the welterweight title. UFC 103 marks the first time Silver Star will have three fighters representing the brand in the octagon.

Rich “Ace” Franklin (27-4-0) will be walking out in his “American Fighter Rich Franklin” walkout tee as he goes head to head in the main event against former UFC light heavyweight champion, Vitor Belfort. Frank “Twinkle Toes” Trigg (19-6, MMA, 2-3 UFC) will debut Silver Star's first fight shorts in the octagon, as well his signature walkout tee as he battles against John Koshchek. Lastly, Rob “The Saint” Emerson (10-7-0) will take on Rafael Dos Anjos while wearing his signature “The Saint” walkout tee.

“Silver Star is dedicated to supporting MMA, the athletes who devote their lives to the sport,” said Silver Star owner, Luke Burrett. “We are very fortunate to have three of the finest fighters competing in UFC 103, and we think the event is the perfect platform to introduce some of our new product.”

Silver Star Casting Company is an “in demand” lifestyle clothing brand with an innovative style. Based in the apparel hub of So. California, Silver Star delivers trend setting merchandise to retailers nationwide. Seen on athletes and celebrities alike the brand is available through Macy’s, Dillard’s, Tilly’s, Journey’s, Pac Sun, and more. In over 3,000 doors nationally and over 45 countries globally, Silver Star has been defining and setting apparel trends for over 16 years.






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Silver Star Announces Sponsorship of Melvin Guillard for UFC Fight Night 19

Silver Star Casting Company has announced a sponsorship of Melvin Guillard for the upcoming UFC Fight Night.

From the Press Release:


(IRVINE, CA) – Melvin “The Young Assassin” Guillard, will enter the octagon in UFC Fight Night's main event, wearing a signature walkout tee by Silver Star Casting Company on September 16, 2009 at the Cox Convention Center in Oklahoma City.

With a UFC record of (5-3), Guillard made his debut with the franchise on The Ultimate Fighter Season 2 television series where he defeated Marcus Davis by technical knockout during the season finale. Guillard, will fight against Nate Diaz (10-4), who is known as the Ultimate Fighter Season 5 champion, in the lightweight division.

“Silver Star is proud to sponsor Melvin Guillard for this event,” said Silver Star owner, Luke Burrett. “He's a young guy with a reputation for knocking people out, we are happy to be supporting him in what we believe will be a successful MMA career.”

Silver Star Casting Company is an “in demand” lifestyle clothing brand with an innovative style. Based in the apparel hub of So. California, Silver Star delivers trend setting merchandise to retailers nationwide. Seen on athletes and celebrities alike the brand is available through Macy’s, Dillard’s, Tilly’s, Journey’s, Pac Sun, and more. In over 3,000 doors nationally and over 45 countries globally, Silver Star has been defining and setting apparel trends for over 16 years.



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Info on Anderson Silva's UFC 101 Silver Star Walkout Tee

The t-shirt pictured to the right is Anderson Silva's walkout shirt for this weekend's UFC 101 event. Teaming up again with Silver Star Casting Company, Silva looks to continue his undefeated streak in the light heavyweight division against Forrest Griffin.

I recently received a press release from Silver Star regarding the shirt - you can find the full release after the jump.


From the Press Release:

(IRVINE, CA) – UFC Middleweight Champion, Anderson “The Spider” Silva will walk out in his new signature tee by Silver Star Casting Company, as he battles former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion, Forrest Griffin in UFC 101, August 8th at the Wachovia Center in Philadelphia, PA.

Ranked as the world's number one middleweight fighter, Anderson “The Spider” Silva (24-4-0) is also widely considered the top pound-for-pound in the world. Silva wore a signature Silver Star walkout tee during UFC 97 where he successfully defended his title for the ninth consecutive time against Thales Leites. Silver Star is showing support for Silva once again with a new signature tee for his walkout as he takes on Forrest Griffin (16-5-0) in UFC 101.

Silva is an amazing athlete with the longest winning streak in the UFC,” said Silver Star Casting Company owner, Luke Burrett. “ Silver Star backed him at UFC 97 and he won, and we are in his corner again for UFC 101 and wanted to produce a shirt commemorating the event.”

The Anderson “The Spider” Silva signature walkout tee for UFC 101 available online, July 31st at: www.buysilverstar.com

Silver Star Casting Co. is street-wear's triple threat: the label dominates in fight and action sports, it is worn by tattooed punk rockers, and embodies the lowrider street culture of the wild West Coast. Silver Star is a full-collection of men and women's sportswear, apparel and accessories that is not intended for the faint of heart. Silver Star can be found in over 4000 stores worldwide and online at www.buysilverstar.com


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Yoshihiro Akiyama to Wear Silver Star at UFC 100

Silver Star Casting Company has announced their most recent sponsorship acquisition - Yoshihiro Akiyama. Akiyama will be making his UFC debut at UFC 100 against Alan Belcher.

For the full press release, head on over to FightTicker.com.

-PreView


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Mike Yanez Announces Opening of Highlander Tampa

Mike Yanez, the Godfather of Highlander MMA recently announced the opening of Highlander Tampa, the second school opened under the Highlander name. You can find the full press release on FightTicker.com.


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FightTicker.com Exclusive - Fight For Life USA Announces Formation of F4L MMA Team

Fight For Life USA recently spoke exclusively to me in my role as a FightTicker.com blogger about the formation of their new fight team, the F4L MMA Team.

For the exclusive announcement as well as comments from Fight For Life USA Co-Founders Brent Thompson and Scott Wells, as well as Team Manager Larry Combs, go to FightTicker.com.

-PreView


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FightZone TV Adds European Flavor By Partnering With Cage Wars Championship

FightZone TV, in their third year of nationally broadcasting the Best of Independent MMA Programming from around the country, will now have to change that to "Around the World" as Cage Wars Championship and FightZone TV have linked across the Atlantic to deliver premium European MMA to the US audience.

“We are delighted to become part of the FightZone Family," said Patrick Mooney, Creative Operational Officer for CWC.

"FightZone has been building the sport of MMA at a grass roots level for some time now and all their hard work has moved them into over 20 million US homes multiple times weekly.

This is the first time the CWC brand has given their live event to a TV network in the USA and we could not be happier.

The CWC brand is now one of the leading native European Cage MMA events and continues to grow the sport of MMA throughout the UK and Europe.

Having FightZone as our US partner is the perfect way to continue our quest to deliver quality European MMA product to the fans in the US. This is a historical day for European MMA and all the young talent that has yet to be seen in America. CWC puts the sport first, and that is why we fit well with FightZone. We look forward to a long and productive relationship with FightZone TV.”

FightZone TV co-owner, Al Martino states, " We could not be more excited to bring our MMA fans some of Europe's finest fighters. Every since my partner, FightZone Co-Owner and Commentator Extraordinaire, Jay Adams and I started this venture in 2007, we have been fortunate enough to work with some of the finest regional MMA promoters in the country and their consistency in always delivering a superior product is a big part of our success and the demand for our broadcasts. Adding CWC to our growing family of MMA partners Library such as RFC, UWC, XFA, WFC, Mainstream. CFC, RCC, Pure Combat and many others will only strengthen our new goal of bringing the Best MMA fights and Interviews from around the World to our audience. Plus we're looking forward to Jay learning another language - English. Fresh off of the incredible exposure of hosting 3 straight events streamed live on Sherdog to hundreds of thousands of Internet viewers, he can't wait to work the next live Cage Wars Event being planned in Spain this summer. "

This year Cage Wars Championship will deliver 5 events from their live catalog and all the upcoming events for 2009. The first 5 events will feature top European and International talent such as Sami Schiavo (France), Colin Robinson (Ireland), Jason Jones (Holland), James Head (USA), Augusto Frota (Brazil), Vincent Latoel (Holland), Tommi Ninimakki (Finland), Bogdan Cristea (Croatia), Michael Kita (Poland), Heman Gipson (USA), Paul McVeigh (UK), Peter Duncan (UK), Colin McKee (N. Ireland), Jimmy Mills (USA), Daniel Tabera (Spain), Tim Estes (USA), Thomas Ahrens (USA), Danny Ver Bergen (Holland), Jeff Monson (USA), Dan Severn (USA), JC Pennington (USA), Arno Rotgans (Holland), Bryan Goldsby (USA), Casimir Bendy (France), Reuben Vasquez (Spain), Thomas Karlsson (Finland), Ivan Mussardo (Italy), Cristian Binda (Italy), Marcello Lopez (Switzerland), Luis Wagner (Brazil), Michael Angelista (Holland), Moen Takalou (Holland), Sergej Maslobojev (Lithuania), Aurelius Kerpe (Lithuania), James Orso (USA), Jonatas Novaes (Brazil) and many others.

To keep up-to-date with CWC visit www.cagewars.co.uk

Currently airing on FightZone TV in May is Xtreme Fighting Association from Las Vegas. The XFA is all about exciting, knock down, knock out fighting and that’s exactly what you’ll see in the second installment of XFA: Xtreme Fights. Top female fighters like Amy Davis and Miriam Nakamoto both have tremendously exciting fights in this show, and Vernon “Tiger” White takes on bare knuckles Muay Thai champ Anthony “Hitman” Brown during this show. Add in Canadian sensation Mark Holst and this episode of XFA: Xtreme Fights is packed with non-stop XFA action. For more info visit www.xfalive.com

Next up in June will be Cage Wars "Decade."

For Updates, Airing Schedule, List of Available Cities, Commercial availability or to request a Media Kit, visit www.FightZone.TV or email FightZoneMedia@aol.com or call 727-577-5500.

FightZone TV is now available to over 21 million homes on Fox Sport Net's (FSN) affiliates SunSports, SportSouth, and nationally on DIRECTV, The Dish Network and AT&T U-verse, reaching over 20% of US homes with cable TV up to 6 times weekly including FightZone Presents and Jay Adam's Brawl Call.


ABOUT CAGE WARS
Cage Wars Championship - CWC is the brain child of Patrick Mooney and Chris Kelly from Ireland. Both men have been involved in promoting nearly 50 MMA events at all levels and are the fathers of the Cage Fighting scene in the UK. Cage Wars Championship has now become the number one Cage MMA event in Europe.

Cage Wars is a Mixed Martial Arts promotion that began in 1999 to promote and teach the sport of MMA. During that time the CWC team brought the first ever cage event to the UK in 2001 which has lead to the explosion of MMA promotions in the UK. MMA is now the fastest growing sport on the planet today.

The first event took place in the Guild Hall in Portsmouth, England and was soon followed by the first ever London event which was a sell out. Ireland, Scotland and Belfast followed over the years and last year two events were held at the world famous Kings Hall, which once again were a phenomenal success.

Cage Wars is one of the largest and longest running UK MMA events company and has hosted or introduced many of the biggest MMA stars including Seth Petruzelli, Shonie Carter, Jess Liaudin, Brian Gassaway, Sami Schiavo, Dan Severn, Joachim Hansen and Jeff Monson to name but a few.

The Cage Wars team have been involved in over 50 MMA events in the last ten years. They also produced the first ever MMA documentary “Underdogs” with LA film director Bobby Razak; the film featured UK fighters preparing to travel to the US and fight for the first time. The DVD was released globally and was heralded as the quintessential MMA documentary.

The Cage Wars team produced the first ever UK MMA publication to demonstrate that there was a market for a publication dedicated to the sport of MMA. Today there are several monthly MMA magazines.

At the end of 2008 the Cage Wars team produced the first ever MMA lifestyle social network at www.thefightfactory.eu and in a few short months the site has become hugely popular.

Currently the CW team are in pre-production for the first ever MMA lifestyle magazine TV show as well as producing Internet TV shows for several websites - FIGHT FACTORY TV and FF MMA NEWS.

The Cage Wars team have had a massive influence on the sport of MMA in the UK and Ireland and will continue to develop live events and TV projects throughout the UK, Ireland and Europe in the near future.

Upcoming events this year will be held in the UK, Spain and Ireland and later in the year CWC will introduce “Saturday Night Fights Live” which is a smaller show for all the young contenders across Europe to compete at a higher level.


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ICF Officially Announces ICF: Sacrifice on May 16th - Luke Zachrich Set to Headline

From a Press Release:

On Saturday, May 16th, Cincinnati's own Luke Zachrich will return to the cage to take on J.R. "The Dragon" Hines at Turfway Park in Florence, KY.

Zachrich, who recently fought for ICF on April 11th at U.S. Bank Arena and took the win against Robert Thompson, is currently 9-1. He looks to add to that against J.R. "The Dragon" Hines. Hines carries a 2-2 record as a pro.

ICF Super Heavyweight Champion Jim Davis will return to Turfway Park to defend his newly crowned title against Oleg Koranevskis. Koranevskis hails from Florida and is 0-1 as an amateur. Davis from Team Vision is currently undefeated and has a record of 3-0.

Exclusive ICF fighter George Oiler will make his pro debut against 0-2 pro Neal Craft. Oiler is coming off a tough loss to former ICF Light Heavyweight Champ T.J. Ball. Craft is looking for his first win as a pro after suffering his second loss against ICF's Victor O'Donnell in January at Turfway Park.

Team Extreme's Kevin Cantley will be fighting Matt Pinzher for the vacant 135lb title. Also on the card is Team Extreme's Matt Egner versus undefeated Ben McQuerry for the vacant 145lb title. Egner with a 4-2 record will be looking to come back after two losses against ICF champ Steve Muldrow. McQuerry who last fought in October for ICF, will be ready to improve on his unmarked record.

Turfway Park's own, "Hacksaw" John Hays will make his return to the cage against Doug Keefe. Hays' last time in the cage delivered him the award for "Fighter of the Night". This fight will be no less than that as Keefe is undefeated.

Along with these exciting fights, other fighters on the card will be Jason Cocagne, Mark Crawn, Justin Hunt, Dave Heidorn, Doug Balinger and Tyler Johnson.

ICF "Sacrifce" is a charity event sponsored by ICF and Hooters. A portion of ticket sales will go towards the following charities, The Point Northern Kentucky and The Leukemia Lymphoma Society.

----------

Additionally, ICF promoter Steve Stanton has released to me the full fight card:

1. Doug Bailnger 147 Rocky Bowman
2. Steven Garcia 159 Justin Hunt
3. Dave Heidorn 174 Brandon Dustmas
4. Joe Miller 174 Tyler Johnson
5. Scott Robert 135 TBA
6. John Hayes 147 Doug Keef
7. Kevin Cantley 135 (Vacant Title) Matt Pinzher
8. Jason Cocagne 189 Mark Crawn
9. Matt Egnar 145 (Vacant Title) Ben McQuary
10. George Oiler(pro) 170 Neil Craft(pro)
11. Jim Davis (Super Heavy Weight Title) Bill Fuller
12. Luke Zachrich(pro) 190 Jonathan Hines(pro)


(Originally posted on FightTicker.com)

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XFC 8: “Regional Conflict” Explodes into a Full-Fledged Mixed Martial Arts Warzone, Live on HDNet Fights

From a Press Release:

Knoxville, TN: In the XFC’s first-ever fight card to be broadcast live on national television, the next generation of Mixed Martial Artists hurled haymakers, swapped submission holds, and turned Thompson-Boling Arena in Knoxville, Tennessee into an all-out warzone.


The end-result was XFC 8: “Regional Conflict,” an event airing live on HDNet that showcased the top emerging talent and most promising up-and-coming fighters in the entire Southeast.


In the televised portion of the fight card, 22-year-old, 264-pound debuting heavyweight Chris “The Beast” Barnett outlasted 60+ fight veteran Johnathan Ivey via unanimous decision. Barnett, a two-time statewide heavyweight high school wrestling champion in Georgia and a third degree Taekwondo black belt, began his MMA training just five months earlier, winning an open tryout with the XFC for a spot in the MTV reality TV series “Made.” The young prodigy dominated the older fighter from the get-go.


“He held position well and was hard to move… he’s just better than me,” said a dejected Ivey. The well-traveled heavyweight from Clarksville, Tennessee had previously battled the likes of Dan Severn, Gan “The Giant” McGee, Ben Rothwell, Ricco Rodriguez, Travis Wiuff, Jake O’Brien, Sam Hoger and Jeremy Horn.


“It was a great experience,” exclaimed an excited Barnett, a native of Athens, Georgia. “I knew he’d try to confuse me with his veteran tricks, but I’m a different breed. I can move! Kicks, flips – I can do it all!”


Jason Wood survived a back-and-forth battle with Derek Schiffer in a 150-pound showdown between twenty-something contenders with a combined 17-3 professional and amateur record. The first round was a close, competitive matchup with both men delivering – and receiving – colossal head-shots. In round two, Wood rocked Schiffer with a vicious volley of cascading punches, forcing the referee to dive atop Schiffer and stop the bout at the 3:41 mark.


Schiffer needed assistance vacating the cage.


In the third fight, ex-University of Tennessee linebacker and “wedge-busting” special teams ace Ovince St. Preux won his blood-feud with light heavyweight Ombey “Kryptonite” Mobley of Tampa, Florida, twisting his ankle and winning by submission 2:36 in round one. Mobley brought a theatrical flair to the contest, mocking St. Preux by dropkicking a Smokey hound dog doll and repeatedly making a “Gator Chomp” gesture in the cage; Smokey is the official mascot of the Tennessee Volunteers.


The highly-partisan crowd loudly booed Mobley throughout the contest, erupting into a crescendo of boisterous cheers when the hometown hero finally upended his Florida challenger.


“It was really satisfying,” said St. Preux, reflecting on his victory. “I was really cranking hard [on the submission hold]. If he hadn’t tapped, he would’ve had a serious injury. This was definitely the highlight of my MMA career.”


Former light heavyweight CT Turner dropped to 185-pounds to face undefeated Julio Gallegos in the fourth fight on HDNet. Both fighters opted to grapple and strike in concussive waves in the first stanza, with neither man able to dominate the other. Arguably, Turner won round one 10-9. But Gallegos began to incrementally deliver the harder and more damaging shots in the second round, locking Turner into a guillotine and refusing to release until he tapped at 2:47.


“There was a little bit of déjà vu,” noted Gallegos, who also bested Turner as an amateur. “I like CT a lot. He’s a good person. In a way it was hard to fight him, because we both overcame adversity – and adversity never overcame us.”


Both Gallegos and Turner experienced homelessness and other serious setbacks in life before discovering the sport of MMA and embarking upon successful professional careers.


In the co-featured bout of the night, Rafaello “Tractor” Oliveira faced XFC Lightweight World Champion John Mahlow at the catchweight of 160-pounds, with Mahlow agreeing to defend his title against Oliveira if he lost to the Brazilian-born BJJ black belt and sparring partner of UFC title-holder B.J. Penn. From the very first round, Oliveira utilized his jujitsu prowess to stymie the XFC champion, winning a three-round unanimous decision.


“Rafaello is a good fighter,” said Mahlow afterwards. “No excuses. We’ll see each other again.”


Undefeated MMA heavyweight and former WWE superstar Bobby Lashley was on hand to present the XFC Featherweight World Title Belt to the winner of the Bruce “The Noose” Connors versus Jarrod “The Wild Card” Card fight in the main event. Connors entered the fight as the favorite, boasting a 6-0 record – with all six wins coming by first round knockout or submission. By the end of the night, Connors’ record would receive its first blemish.


Utilizing blazing foot-speed and precision punches, Card confounded Connors, peppering him with strikes from unorthodox angles, slicing his face into a gruesome mask of shredded flesh and free-flowing blood. Connors refused to back down and twice clamped Card into a deep guillotine, but each time the young fighter wrestled free and returned to his feet. Card won the contest – and the XFC world title – via five-round unanimous decision.


“I’m the new guy on the scene,” said an elated Card, who elevated his record to 10-2-1. “I’m more than ready for the next level. I’ll fight anyone.”


For his part, Bobby Lashley – who announced that he’ll finally be fighting for the XFC in September – seemed impressed with the fight card.


“I thought it was an incredible night,” gushed the former two-time ECW world champion. “I was blown away by all the talent in the cage. These guys now know what it’s like to fight in the big show. As for my upcoming fight with the XFC, anyone they want me to take out, I’ll do.”


Veteran sportswriter Dave Link covered XFC 8 for the Knoxville News Sentinel newspaper, and certainly appeared to enjoy the drama and action.


“I’ve covered all kinds of sports for 25-years but I’ve never covered MMA,” said Link. “This was just great! The entire event was first-class. If I wasn’t covering it, I’d be here as a fan. I’ll definitely be back when the XFC returns.”


Final results for XFC 8:


Undercard

Devan Plaisance defeated Paul McEntee by TKO, 3:06 in round one

Matt Traylor defeated Richard Boyd by TKO, 4:37 in round one

Corey Krebs defeated Dean Hamilton by TKO, 1:22 in round one


HDNet Fights

Chris Barnett defeated Johnathan Ivey by three-round unanimous decision

Jason Wood defeated Derek Schiffer by TKO, 3:41 in round two

Ovince St. Preux defeated Ombey Mobley by submission (ankle lock) 2:36 in round one

Julio Gallegos defeated CT Turner by submission (guillotine) 2:47 in round two

Rafaello Oliveira defeated John Mahlow by three-round unanimous decision (Oliveira wins guaranteed rematch for Mahlow’s XFC Lightweight World Title)

Jarrod Card defeated Bruce Connors by five-round unanimous decision (Card wins vacant XFC Featherweight Champion)

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About Xtreme Fighting Championships (XFC): Xtreme Fighting Championships – better known to MMA fight fans worldwide as XFC – is the Southeast’s leading independent MMA promotion, and stages the largest live shows in the entire sport this side of UFC. Dedicated to launching the careers of the MMA superstars of tomorrow, XFC’s North American fight cards are broadcast live on national television, exclusively on HDNet. For more information about XFC, please visit www.mmaxfc.com.


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The Bank Robbery that Fueled Bobby Lashley’s Quest to Become an MMA Champion

From a Press Release:

Knoxville, TN (4/21/09): Bobby Lashley’s life nearly ended in 2003.

“It was a day like any other,” Lashley recalled. “I was still focused on my amateur wrestling career when I walked into my local bank in Colorado Springs to take care of some business. And then suddenly – directly behind my head – exploded the sound of gunfire. It was an armed robbery and I was precisely between the gunmen and the money. If you watch a slow motion replay of the bank’s security cameras, you can actually see a small cloud of gun powder just behind my head.”


The ex-WWE superstar and current MMA heavyweight prospect gazed skyward as he remembered his near-death experience – and his life-changing realization:

“If I had died then,” he slowly spoke, “there would’ve been so many dreams unfulfilled. So many goals and aspirations gone forever – dead on arrival. And that’s why I’m in the Mixed Martial Arts. Before I die, I wanna be the heavyweight champion of the world. That’s my dream.”

Bobby Lashley will present the new XFC featherweight world title to the winner of the Bruce “The Noose” Connors versus Jarrod “The Wild Card” Card fight in the main event of XFC 8: “Regional Conflict” on Saturday, April 25 at the 21 thousand-capacity Thompson-Boling Arena in Knoxville, Tennessee. The event will air live on national television, exclusively on HDNet.

For Lashley, Connors and Card represent what the 250-pound, American Top Team heavyweight prospect is working so feverishly to achieve.

“It’s all about becoming a champion,” said Lashley. “My father always told me that no matter what you do in life, you owe it to yourself to the absolute best at it – to push yourself until there’s nothing left in the tank. There’s a fine line that separates a champion from everyone else. We all have doubts and we all have fears, but a true champion finds a way to overcome them. And when a champion is fully focused and fully prepared, nothing can stop him.”

Becoming a champion is something Lashley understands well: From 1996 through 1999, Lashley wrestled at – and earned two degrees from – Missouri Valley College, becoming a three-time NAIA national wrestling champion and a four-time All-American. He later followed in his father’s footsteps by joining the U.S. Army, winning a pair of Armed Forces championships and a 2002 silver medal at the Military World Championships.

Lashley’s eye-popping athleticism, chiseled physique and elite wrestling pedigree landed him an opportunity with the WWE. He won the ECW heavyweight championship twice, and perhaps most memorably, tag-teamed with billionaire Donald Trump at Wrestlemania 23 on April 1, 2007, helping “The Donald” shave the head of WWE chairman Vince McMahon.

But despite achieving celebrity status – and main event compensation – while with the WWE, something was missing.

“I still dreamed of becoming a champion and testing myself against the very best in the world,” Lashley said. “Yeah, I know I have my critics. I know some people think I’m crazy for leaving behind the WWE and starting all over again in MMA, but this is my dream. And I’m pouring my heart and soul into this sport. Believe me, I’m gonna give it everything I’ve got.”

Which is why some in the MMA community raised their eyebrows when Lashley appeared this past weekend at the TNA “Lockdown” professional wrestling pay-per-view, rejoining the “sports entertainment” profession after a yearlong absence. But according to Lashley, his heart is still dead-set on becoming an MMA world champion, and TNA is a means to that end.

“It’s not the kind of professional wrestling that everyone thinks,” explained Lashley. “With the WWE, I was on the road nonstop; it was my entire life. With TNA, I’m only working four days a month. And with the extra income from wrestling, I can take care of my family and afford to fully dedicate myself to my MMA training. I’m no different than so many young fighters: I still need a day job, because MMA training is expensive – especially when you want to travel to different camps and learn from the top minds in the game. And TNA has been great to work with.”

Lashley plans to travel to Las Vegas and train with one-on-one with a top-ranked heavyweight in the UFC, although he declined to disclose this heavyweight’s identity.

“I’m still learning,” Lashley readily acknowledged. “In my last fight [a unanimous decision victory over Jason Guida on March 21] I made the mistake of letting my opponent get under my skin, especially after he ran his mouth. Instead of focusing on executing my game plan and doing what I do best, I focused on hurting the man. MMA is sort of like professional wrestling, in that the key to success isn’t actually hurting your opponent – but focusing on implementing and executing your game plan. If you do that, everything else takes care of itself. And I love training. When I leave practice, I’m so amped-up. It’s a feeling of euphoria.”

As Lashley continues to develop his craft, his dream of becoming an MMA world champion remains in the forefront of his mind.

“I definitely want to fight for the XFC,” he exclaimed. “100 percent. All I’ve heard are good things about them and their promoter, and I know they have a lot of great fighters. Hopefully I’ll be on their next card. Meanwhile, I’m excited to be at XFC 8 this Saturday night. Card versus Connors in the main event for the XFC featherweight world title – that should be a phenomenal fight! It’s a golden opportunity for both men, because opportunities to become a champion don’t come around every day. It takes so much blood, sweat and sacrifice. Believe me… I know.”

Lashley paused briefly before continuing:

“And one day soon, I’ll be a champion again, too.”

XFC 8: “Regional Conflict” features the fastest-rising young prospects and top emerging superstars from Tennessee, Florida, Kentucky and North Carolina in a series of contender-versus-contender cage fights. Tickets are now available at the Thompson-Boling Arena box office and Tickets Unlimited outlets, including Cat's Music, Disc Exchange, and Fye Music.

###

About Xtreme Fighting Championships (XFC): Xtreme Fighting Championships – better known to MMA fight fans worldwide as the XFC – is the Southeast’s leading independent MMA promotion, and stages the largest live shows in the entire sport this side of the UFC. Dedicated to launching the careers of the MMA superstars of tomorrow, the XFC’s next mega-event, XFC 8: “Regional Conflict,” takes place on April 25 at Thompson-Boling Arena in Knoxville, Tennessee, and will be broadcast live on national television, exclusively on HDNet. For more information about the XFC, please visit www.mmaxfc.com.


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