** USKBA ACTION SPORTS News of...  WEDNESDAY, JULY 30, 2003 **

---

^
ROGERS TAKES TITLE FROM HRICOVSKY, MULLINS RETAINS TITLE ON "KOA KICKBOXING KLASSIC"

Newcomer STACY ROGERS came into the fight as the smaller of the two kickboxers. Her opponent was USKBA Amateur Full Contact Kickboxing Female Light Heavyweight Ohio State Champion MARISA HRICOVSKY. Hricovsky was putting her title on the line. Rogers didn't care about the weight difference or the difference in experience. Rogers was hungry. Hungry for the title. Hricovsky came in relaxed. Hricovsky looked the best she has in recent bouts. Once again the girls proved that they can mix it up with the best of them. From the opening bell, neither fighter would let up. Just when you thought the pace was slowing down, leave it to the girls to prove you wrong. Both Hricovsky and Rogers gave the crowd a reason to stand for the full four round bout. The scoring was consistent on all three judges scorecards. The first two rounds had two judges giving the rounds to Rogers while one judge gave the rounds to Hricovsky. Rogers seemed to pour it on in the final two rounds. After four exciting rounds of kickboxing action, the judges (40-36, 38-38, 40-36) gave the fight to the winner by majority decision ...Stacy Rogers (pictured at right with USKBA ACTION SPORTS Promoter Doug Benavides).

In another title bout, USKBA Amateur Full Contact Kickboxing Super Heavyweight Ohio State Champion JASON MULLINS was defending his title against MICHAEL GINTER. Mullins came in at 272 lbs while Ginter weighed in at over 330 lbs. Both fighters packed a powerful punch. Both fighters not only slugged it out but used their kicks to set up their punches. The first round saw Ginter connecting and Mullins weighing his opportunities. Mullins did not back down and connected to Ginter's head and body. Ginter retreated and Mullins continued the attack. It looked like Mullins connected to the chin of Ginter and Ginter went down. Ginter was face down on the canvas when referee Roy Kilgore stopped the fight. Ginter later explained that he wasn't hurt by the punch...he just ran out of steam. Both fighters gave their all and showed heart. Ginter knows what he has to do to get back in the ring. Mullins continues to mow down his opponents since winning the title. This time, the winner by TKO at 1:53 of Round 1 ...Jason Mullins.

New USKBA ACTION SPORTS Promoter DOUG BENAVIDES (Tiger PAW Karate) put together his first kickboxing event and it turned out to be memorable and great. If this event, "KOA KICKBOXING KLASSIC", is any indication of the future, there will definitely be more "KOA KICKBOXING KLASSICS". This event was held at the KOA Campgrounds in Shelby, Ohio on July 26, 2003. USKBA OHIO Representative Jim Cofer was there to assist and even had a couple of his kickboxers on the card. Tina Cofer helped with the timekeeping and scorekeeping. Other USKBA Officials included; referees Roy Kilgore and John Bigalow, judges Robert Lykins, Jason Shutt and Don Miles and kickcounters Troy Hamm and Leann Lazar. Aside from the fighters, the hit of evening were the "future USKBAbabes and USKBAboys" as they strutted their stuff in the ring to let everyone know what round it was (see photo at left). Special thanks to all the fighters and studios supplying kickboxers; Tiger PAW Karate, Japan Karate Academy, Mickey Scodova's Kickboxing and Karate, Golden Lotus Martial Arts and United Martial Arts. Also in attendance was Kickboxer and Boxer Kelli Cofer.

In other amateur Full Contact Kickboxing bouts;
ROY McKENZIE def DERIK WRIGHT by TKO at 1:37 of Round 1.
JOE BRIDENBAUGH def DAVID PRESTON by TKO at 1:09 of Round 1.
KEVIN SPANGLER def KENNY BLACKBURN by unanimous decision.
BRYAN RUCKEL def BUDDY BAILEY by TKO at 1:38 of Round 2.
JOE SCHULZ def JAMES CORBITT by TKO at 1:54 of Round 2.
TIFFANY STAEBLER def CASSIE HICKS by unanimous decision.
JONATHAN BILLER and DOUG COWLEY fought an exhibition.
JESSE SPEARS and KURT WAGERS fought an exhibition.

For information on future "KOA KICKBOXING KLASSIC" events, contact USKBA ACTION SPORTS Promoter Doug Benavides at 419-545-3765.^

** USKBA ACTION SPORTS News of...  FRIDAY, JULY 25, 2003 **

---

^
NEW USKBA PROMOTERS: SANCTION & INSURE YOUR FIRST EVENT FOR $450

USKBA ACTION SPORTS is offering first time promoters an opportunity to have their first event USKBA ACTION SPORTS Sanctioned and Insured for the low cost of only $450. This is a limited time offer and may be withdrawn at any time. For additional information, e-mail: promoter@uskba.com, or visit the USKBA Membership and Licensing Section of our website.

"2003 USKBA ACTION SPORTS WEEKEND" TO INCLUDE "GARDEN STATE GAMES OPEN CHALLENGE"

November 8-9, 2003. Mark those dates on your calendar. The "2003 USKBA ACTION SPORTS WEEKEND" will feature the "2003 USKBA ACTION SPORTS CHAMPIONSHIPS". Just added to the tournament will be the "GARDEN STATE KARATE OPEN CHALLENGE" presented by MEL KLEIN.

The "GARDEN STATE KARATE OPEN CHALLENGE" will be a full tournament that will include forms and sparring and will be open for kids and adults of all ages. Everyone is invited. For additional information, call Mel Klein at 201-265-4847, or e-mail kampop@aol.com, or visit their website at www.kamsports.com.

** USKBA ACTION SPORTS News of...  THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2003 **

---

^
LOOKING FOR FIGHTER FOR INTERNATIONAL EVENT

USKBA ACTION SPORTS is looking for a professional fighter to represent us on an International event on August 30th. Fighter must have passport and be ready to travel. Final selection to be made on Friday, July 25, 2003.

Opponent:  Male, 29 yrs old, under 148 lbs (67 kg), Record; 28-8-2 draws (11 KO's), Experience; Shoot Boxing Champion.

Rules: Five 3 minute rounds, kickboxing (knee and low kick allowed and fighter can chose to allow elbows) and stand up submission and throwing.

Fight money is $800, and promoter will pay for 2 economy class air tickets and hotel and food money.

If interested, e-mail actionsports@uskba.com. Please provide record, biography and picture. This can lead to return fights.

"2003 USKBA ACTION SPORTS WEEKEND" TO OFFER "LETTERS OF INVITATION"

November 8-9, 2003. Mark those dates on your calendar. The "2003 USKBA ACTION SPORTS WEEKEND" will feature the "2003 USKBA ACTION SPORTS CHAMPIONSHIPS". We have received numerous e-mails from countries regarding sending fighters and teams of fighters to the "2003 USKBA ACTION SPORTS CHAMPIONSHIPS". The USKBA will provide "Letters of Invitation" providing we receive the following:

• a letter addressed to: USKBA, PO Box 109, Emerson NJ 07630 USA, or e-mail addressed to: actionsports@uskba.com.
• the letter, or e-mail, must provide the names, weights and records of each fighter.
• the letter, or e-mail must provide the names of all coaches traveling with fighters and/or teams.
• the letter, or e-mail, must provide the passport number and country of origin, for all fighters and coaches that will be traveling.
• the letter, or e-mail, must state that the cost of traveling, hotel and food and all fees incurred will be at the expense of the traveling fighters and/or team.

** USKBA ACTION SPORTS News of...  WEDNESDAY, JULY 23, 2003 **

It was a five round battle between two accomplished heavyweight kickboxers looking to move up the ladder to the USKBA World Championship Title currently held by Dan "The Lizard" Lucas. But this night, the winner would be awarded the USKBA Full Contact Kickboxing Heavyweight Eastcoast Championship Title. The Main Event of "COMBATZONE 2" was JASON "The Trooper" BONACORSI(Bonacorsi's Kickboxing) fighting JOHN "The Bull" MARZULLO (Sampalis Kickboxing). Bonacorsi was coming off an impressive victory on "COMBATZONE-The Beginning". Prior to that, Bonacorsi had taken a one year self imposed layoff from fighting. Marzullo had been absent from the kickboxing scene for nine years. The bout started off on a fast pace and never let up. Aside from some low blows, both fighters stood toe to toe in what appeared to be a five round 'you hit me-I hit you' bout. Both fighters had exceptional exchanges. At one point, Bonacorsi seemed to rock Marzullo with a barrage of punches to the head. Marzullo returned the favor on a few occasions. Neither fighter went down in the fight. After five rounds of great kickboxing action, the judges were called on to render a decision. The judges gave this bout to the winner by unanimous decision... John Marzullo.

USKBA ACTION SPORTS Promoter Bruce Marshall (Trilogy/Black Belt Productions) put together a night of Kickboxing and MMA on "COMBATZONE 2" at LIDO-The Nightclub in Revere MA on July 19, 2003. In addition to the Main Event of BONACORSI vs MARZULLO and an action packed undercard, the crowd was treated to a special appearance by the USKBAbabes...Paige and Brenda. After the event, Paige and Brenda stayed to pose for pictures with many of the fans, officials, fighters and sponsors (see picture at right...Paige and Brenda with George of Boots and Saddles).

One of the MMA bouts featured a scheduled 2 round (5 minutes each round) contest between LANCE EVERSON (Boneyard) and MATT DONAHUE(R.I. J.B.A.). Both fighters came in with a 1-0 record. Everson was able to accomplish the takedown on Donahue. While Everson had the advantage, he began striking Donahue's head. Everson kept pounding away. Donahue was able to deflect a lot of the punches and was able to roll out. Everson went for the submission. Donahue tried to get out of Everson's grip but eventually tapped out. The winner by submission at 4:18 of Round 1... Lance Everson.

In other amateur action:
Full Contact Kickboxing
DAVID LEE def NORBERT VINAGRE by unanimous decision.
Full Contact Kickboxing
JOHN LEVASSOUR def SAM TYLER by split decision.
Full Contact Kickboxing
GREG RODGERS def CHRIS BALLARD by TKO at 2:00 of Round 1.
MMA
MAT SANTOS and RICH MITCHELL fought an exhibition.
Full Contact Kickboxing
DAWNA CREIGHTON and ANGELA KATANESE fought an exhibition.

For information on future "COMBATZONE" events, contact USKBA ACTION SPORTS Promoter Bruce Marshall at 978-828-2149

** USKBA ACTION SPORTS News of...  FRIDAY, JULY 18, 2003 **

---

USKBA ACTION SPORTS Promoter Don Banville has announced his lineup of MMA fights for "XTREME FIGHTING 5" at The Matrix in Fall River MA on July 26, 2003.

For tickets and information, contact USKBA ACTION SPORTS Promoter Don Banville at 508-801-3963.

** USKBA ACTION SPORTS News of...  THURSDAY, JULY 17, 2003 **

---

^
PANZA KICKBOXING TO OFFER TRAVEL TO
"RING OF COMBAT 4"

USKBA MEMBER CLUB Panza Kickboxing is offering a special package to see USKBA Full Contact Kickboxing Super Lightweight World Champion TIM "Bring The Pain" LANE (New York) defend his title against ERIK MARSHALL (Florida) on August 15, 2003 at Caesars Atlantic City. The special travel package for $30 includes bus transportation from Panza Kickboxing to Caesars Atlantic City with the a return trip. In addition, a "Bring The Pain" T-shirt and $17 voucher (if over 21) is included. Fight tickets can also be purchased from Panza Kickboxing and are priced at $35 and $50. Seats are limited and reservations must be made prior to July 30th. For additional information, call Panza Kickboxing at 516-656-5775. 

** USKBA ACTION SPORTS News of...  WEDNESDAY, JULY 16, 2003 **

"2003 USKBA ACTION SPORTS WEEKEND" TO INCLUDE "NORTH AMERICAN SAN DA CHAMPIONSHIPS"

November 8-9, 2003. Mark those dates on your calendar. The "2003 USKBA ACTION SPORTS WEEKEND" will feature the "2003 USKBA ACTION SPORTS CHAMPIONSHIPS". Just added to the tournament will be the "2003 NORTH AMERICAN SAN DA CHAMPIONSHIPS" presented by KING OF SAN DA: USA.

Press Release issued by KING OF SAN DA: USA...
USKBA ACTION SPORTS in cooperation with King of San Da: USA™ presents the "2003 NORTH AMERICAN SAN DA CHAMPIONSHIPS", November 8th and 9th, 2003 at The Rexplex Sports Complex, NJ Turnpike Exit 13-A (next to IKEA) in Elizabeth, NJ. Contact information: www.RexPlex.com and www.uskba.com.

Tournament format:
This tournament is for AMATEURS ONLY! Participants can be citizens or legal residents of the US, Canada or Mexico. Both male and female divisions will be offered. Both A (ranking) and B (beginner, under 5 fights) divisions will be offered. Participants must be between the ages of 18 and 35. Seeding will be based upon King of San Da: USA™ Rankings as of September 1, 2003.

Rules:
Rounds: This event is standard tournament style, i.e. the winner of TWO ROUNDS advances (i.e. if
you win the first two rounds, there is no third round).
Length of rounds: Each round shall be TWO (2) minutes with a one minute rest period. However, the clock shall be stopped under the following conditions;
a) when the athlete or both athletes are down on the canvas as a result of a sweep, leg kick, throw or takedown (but NOT a knockdown).
b) when the referee breaks the clinch.
c) when the referee issues a caution or warning.
The clock resumes when the referee orders the fighters to resume fighting.
Tournament area: Matches will take place in a boxing ring.
Safety equipment: ALL participants are REQUIRED to wear head gear, mouth guard and 'shin and instep' protectors (heel does not have to be covered, i.e. "boots" are not required). In addition, all male participants must wear a groin cup. Boxing gloves will be supplied by the promoter.
Dress code: All participants must wear shorts, no long pants are permitted. Male participants have
the choice of either being bare chested or wearing a tank top.

LEGAL TECHNIQUES
01. All boxing techniques and spinning back fist
02. All kicks to legal targets.
03. Sweeps to either or both legs
04. Knee strikes below the collar bone (no knees to head)
05. Throws and takedowns that do not violate safety rules
06. Catching kicks
07. Clinching up to 5 seconds to strike (knee) or throw (not to delay action)
08. Plowing

ILLEGAL TECHNIQUES
01. Striking the back of the head
02. Striking the throat
03. Striking the groin (the genitals)
04. Attacking the knee joint
05. Holding the head and uppercutting
06. Knees above the collar bone (no knees to head)
07. Any joint attack including neck locks
08. Throwing an opponent onto head or neck
09. Throwing in a way that attacks a joint
10. Trying to force opponent out of the ring
11. Striking after break has been called
12. Striking an opponent who has fallen
13. Holding the ropes either for offense or for defense
14. Putting Vaseline or grease on body
15. "Dirty tactics" including head butts, gouging, etc.

WEIGHT CLASSES
 

*  In all other issues; competition will refer to “Rules of Sanshou and Sanda” published by King of San Da: USA™
* Travel; Newark International Airport is across the turnpike from the event site (5 minutes by Taxi). Hotel information will be made available as soon as possible.

If you wish to receive registration material in the mail, send your address to davidross@nykkgym.com.

** USKBA ACTION SPORTS News of...  FRIDAY, JULY 11, 2003 **

USKBA ACTION SPORTS Promoter Bruce Marshall (Trilogy/Black Belt Productions) has put the final touches on his "COMBATZONE 2" Muay Thai, Kickboxing and MMA event at LIDO-The Nightclub in Revere MA on July 19, 2003. The Main Event will have JASON "The Trooper" BONACORSI fighting JOHN "The Bull" MARZULLO for the USKBA Full Contact Kickboxing Heavyweight Eastcoast Championship Title. Pro bouts also featuring ERIC PINARRETA (MA) vs JASON QUICK (NY). Other kickboxing matches; David Lee vs Norbert Vinagre, Dawna Creighton vs Susie Paschkewitz, Johnny Lavessour vs Sam Tyler, Chris Ballard vs Greg Rogers, Peggy Morgan vs Paulette Fam and Richard Feliciano vs Rickie Spencer. MMA (NO HOLDS BARRED) bouts to include; Lance Everson (Boneyard) vs Matt Donahue (RI JBA), Rich Mitchell (Bare Knuckles) vs Will Murphy (Auburn BJJ) and Brian Knoth (Independent) vs Rob Maruyn (Bare Knuckles).

Limited seats are still available. Contact USKBA ACTION SPORTS Promoter Bruce Marshall at 978-828-2149, or your local Strawberries Music and Video stores, for tickets. "COMBATZONE 2" is sponsored in part by Boot and Saddles and Tattoo America.

** USKBA ACTION SPORTS News of...  FRIDAY, JULY 4, 2003 **

HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY
FOURTH OF JULY HOLIDAY

"KOA KICKBOXING KLASSIC" GETTING READY FOR ACTION ON JULY 26TH

USKBA OHIO Representative JIM COFER will be on hand when new USKBA ACTION SPORTS Promoter Doug Benavides (Tiger PAW Karate) brings his 1st Annual "KOA KICKBOXING KLASSIC" to the Shelby KOA (formerly the Wagonwheel Campground) located at 6787 Baker 47 in Shelby OH, phone 419-347-1392. The amateur kickboxing action will be held on Saturday, July 26, 2003. Scheduled fights: USKBA Ohio State Super Heavyweight Champion Jason Mullins vs. Mike Ginter, USKBA Ohio State Female Light Heavyweight Champion Marissa Hricovsky vs. Stacey Rogers and featuring USKBA Ohio State Super Light Heavyweight Champion Roy Kilgore. Also scheduled; Marcus Herrera, Tiffany Stabler, Roy McKenzie, Jason Atwell, Robert Pulsan, James Corbitt, Ken Blackburn, CJ Poole, Kelley Geller, Bryan Ruckle, Jesse Spears, Joe Bridenbaugh...plus more!

Tickets are currently available at Golden Lotus Martial Arts in Willard, Tiger PAW Karate in Shelby or Goodfellow Pizzeria and Pub in Mansfield. Tickets are (in advance) $10 General Admission and $15 Ringside. At the door, ticket prices will be $15 General Admission and $20 Ringside. The number for ticket information is 419-545-3765.

** USKBA ACTION SPORTS News of...  THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2003 **

EXPLOSIVE CARD FINALIZED FOR "RING OF COMBAT 4" AT CAESARS ATLANTIC CITY

USKBA ACTION SPORTS Promoter World Champion Louis Neglia has put the final touches on his fourth "RING OF COMBAT" event. This event will be held on August 15, 2003 and will feature some amazing bouts that people have wanted to see for a long time. A show this big is fitting to be held at Caesars Atlantic City. "RING OF COMBAT 4" is sanctioned by USKBA ACTION SPORTS under the auspices of the New Jersey Athletic Control Board, Larry Hazzard, Commissioner. Two "RING OF COMBAT" Championship Titles and the USKBA Full Contact Kickboxing Super Lightweight World Championship Title will be defended on "RING OF COMBAT 4".

Tickets will go on sale July 5, 2003. Additional information and special hotel rates can be obtained by calling USKBA ACTION SPORTS Promoter World Champion Louis Neglia at 718-372-9089.

** USKBA ACTION SPORTS News of...  WEDNESDAY, JULY 2, 2003 **

^
NYKK GYM BRINGS HOME THE TROPHIES FROM SCOTT SHEELEY'S "IRON TIGER CHALLENGE" IN OHIO

USKBA Member Club NYKK GYM (New York) went to Ohio with two San Da fighters competing in Scott Sheeley's "IRON TIGER CHALLENGE" and came back with two wins and trophies. Renowned San Shou fighter Scott Sheeley (see photo at right...Scott Sheeley on the right) held his second "IRON TIGER CHALLENGE" event in Bellefontaine OH on June 21, 2003 and had fighters from all over participating in various action sports. The talent included kids, adults, men, women showing their skills in San Da, MMA and Boxing exhibitions that thrilled the enthusiastic crowd who came to see 16 action packed bouts. The event ran well thanks to the preparation and help supplied by Scott Sheeley's students and local martial artists.

The first NYYK GYM fighter, ADAM RESNICK (see photo at left...Adam Resnick in black shorts, no t-shirt), was paired off against Brad Burrick in a three round San Da match. Both fighters came in at 185 lbs with decent fight experience. Resnick has fought on many USKBA Sanctioned events. This bout showed the experience of both fighters as the crowd was treated to a good demonstration of San Shou techniques. Although both Resnick and Burrick were active during the match, Resnick seemed to be the aggressor and the busier of the two. Resnick worked well on the inside. This bout went the distance and to the judges' scorecards. The winner by unanimous decision... Adam Resnick.

The second NYKK Gym fighter, NIZAR BALGHITI (see photo at right...Nizar Balghiti in blue shorts, red shin guards) went up against Dominic Ollhoff in a  three round San Da match. Balghiti came in at 157 lbs and Ollhoff at 155 lbs. Balghiti sported a 6-1 record while Ollhoff was 8-3 (according to the printed program). The action picked up when these two fighters entered the ring. It looked as if both fighters were content to end it in the first round. But it went the full three rounds. Balghiti had to pick himself off the canvas courtesy of a Ollhoff spinning backfist. Balghiti never backed down and went after Ollhoff. Ollhoff never backed down either. Both fighters fought non stop to the ending bell. The judges were called on to render the decision. The winner by split decision... Nizar Balghiti.

In other bouts:
MMA
Josh Hendricks def Gregg Salyer by KO (strikes) in Round 1.
MMA
Caleb Cerwinsky def Cody Cerwinsky by decision.
San Da
Cody Fullerton def Nico Nicarro by decision.
MMA
Brad Lyburtus def David Baker by KO in Round 1 (didn't answer bell for Round 2).
Boxing
Damon Dixon def Allan Patz by KO in Round 2 (didn't answer bell for Round 3).
San Da
Gunnar Buck and Logan Wenger fought to a draw.
MMA
Ryan Young def Jamie Johns by KO in Round 1 (didn't answer bell for Round 2).
Boxing
Waddington Mannings def Gary by unanimous decision.
MMA
Justin Holmes def Buddy Butler by tapout in Round 1.
San Da
Mike Myers def Steve Hallock by unanimous decision.
San Da
Nicholas Hershberger and Kale Priday fought to a draw.
MMA
Joe Fout def Dorian Price by tapout in Round 2.
San Da
Heather Coe def Lisa McGee by unanimous decision.
MMA
Rick Emirch def Rick Cain by KO (strikes) in Round 1.
 

** USKBA ACTION SPORTS News of...  TUESDAY, JULY 1, 2003 **

"TALES OF PAIN" AT A GLANCE...commentary by Eric Haycraft.

History has a way of repeating itself and the big mistakes of promoting our sport are no exception. How many promoters will have to make the same mistakes before a solid blueprint for success can be drafted? Big money and big dreams have offered many promising cards on paper only to materialize into disaster. Promoters, Too Famous Inc., were the latest addition to the Hall of Fame of failed events. With a marketing strategy lifted from the storyline of Field of Dreams, they built it...but nobody came. The idea was to take the currently popular format and rules of 8 man K-1 style tournaments, add in eight accomplished fighters and a few hip hop musical acts and sell lots of tickets! The problem was that no one told the fledgling promoters that kickboxing is a fringe sport and you have to do some very creative marketing to lure the general public to a venue to take a chance on something new.

Before dissecting the promotions' failures, lets look at what they did right. First off they actually had the money up front to do the show. Despite next to no ticket sales and massive overhead, all parties involved were paid. The next thing they did was actually attempt to get a very competitive line up of fighters. A convincing argument could be made on behalf of each fighter as to why they deserved their respective spots in the line up. The idea of mixing the card with music acts was a great idea. Bands and singers have fans and followings. I can't remember the last time I saw a martial arts demo team draw a big crowd at a local bar or concert hall. They had a gimmick too, a special title belt, advertised as a belt worth $150,000 due to the diamonds and gems adorning the sterling silver belt. Those involved in the game giggle but to the average fan it might make for an interesting side bar discussion. The intentions were all good.

As we look into the mistakes it just seems that perhaps the promoters did not truly have their finger on the pulse of the sport. Time and time again traditional advertising methods such as TV and radio have proved to be far too costly for the return. The sport is just not that popular with the general public yet. That once again proves to be the case with "TALES OF PAIN". The ticket prices started somewhere around forty dollars and went up. Far too much for a new venue in a town not known for supporting big time kickboxing. The venue was in the suburbs of Chicago, which turned out to be far away from any of the popular nightlife the town is known for. The show was during the same weekend as the very popular "Taste of Chicago", which is a huge outdoor fair offering samplings of the cities culturally diverse cuisine. Thousands of people found themselves downtown enjoying the beautiful weather and tastes the weekend offered. All of these factors combined led to a small crowd of only several hundred people, of which no ones how many actually paid admission.

The production itself was understaffed and running very late. A complicated sound system was never fully installed despite several delays. The musical acts bombed, perhaps because the sound system failed over and over during their performance and because they simply had no fans there. The fights themselves ran relatively smooth compared to many shows I have been a part of. Fighters knew when they were on deck and there were no delays once the action started. There was a martial arts demo and despite the fact that I hate these, this one was particularly entertaining. It took place in a sectioned off area away from the ring, and featured kyokushin exponent Albert Mady breaking baseball bats with shin kicks. At least this is a bit more relative to a show like this than a sword demo. Sitting ringside were Rick Roufus(pictured at left with Mark "The Shark" Miller and kickboxer Dorian Murray) and former Heavyweight Standout Andrew Golata (pictured at right with David Cummings and Eric Haycraft), neither of which properly introduced. 

It is a shame the promoters did not have a better turn out because the actual tournament was entertaining and no doubt shed some light on some new fighters. I am not a promoter by any means but I have been covering venues big and small for a while and there are a few things I would have tried. I believe that if the venue had been downtown, better use of the thousands of people that were already out and about for "Taste of Chicago" could have been used. In fact, a Friday evening outdoor weigh in at the park may have sparked a bit of interest. Someone should have been down there giving out fliers and free tickets. Many of the local martial artists I spoke with told me that they were surprised that most of the local gyms they went to knew nothing about the event. An event like this can draw fans, it has been done in Chicago many times by the likes of the Shidokan. In fact, one of the tournament fighters is a past champion of that event and has a following in Chicago. It would have been worth the promoters money to bring a few of the guys in early and set up a few pad work sessions at a local mall or similar place. Let people have a live preview of what these guys are bringing to the table. Promoters tend to get tunnel vision and forget the single most important thing...no one really knows anything about our sport!

I enjoyed the show. I cringed as the promoters dealt with problem after problem but after the action started I think most present enjoyed the show. The promoters made an announcement that they would return, I will be very surprised if that happens, but if they do, I hope they spend several months building a market for their product. 

************************************** 
Blow by Blow
TALES OF PAIN, Saturday June 28th, 2003
Chicago, IL

Fledgling promoters, Too Famous, Inc., earned their promotion education the hard way last Saturday night. Good intentions and good money could not overcome naive marketing and poor preparation. The fact that the event suffered two major delays before beginning did not seem to anger the two hundred or so hard-core fans that actually found out about the event and then actually found their way to the venue. Those who were there were treated to an entertaining evening of heavyweight kickboxing, featuring a shut out performance by Carter Williams of Modesto, California. Williams, known as "the Beast", has been leaving a path of destruction in tournaments across the country. A knockout victory over American kickboxing icon, Rick Roufus, at last May's K-1 Vegas, shot Williams into international lime-light. 

The card was originally scheduled for the 8-man single elimination tournament, an alternate bout and a super fight under full contact rules. By the time the event went off a few things changed, first, the super fight between David Cummings and Mike Nevitt had to be canceled due to Cummings suffering a TKO loss just two weeks before. Then it was determined that the alternate fight, between Lance Boyd and John James, was to be a gross mismatch. Boyd was pulled from the fight and paired with Cummings for an exhibition of the evenings' legal techniques and typical combinations. James was then matched with Simon Diouf of Chicago, via France. 

Alternate Bout
The John James (Michigan) and Simon Diouf (Chicago via France) alternate bout was relatively slow paced never seeing either man really put it together. James was the stronger more aggressive fighter and won every round for a unanimous decision. 

Tournament Quarter Final Bout 1
The first bout of the evening pitted Guiseppe 'The Godfather' Denatale (Winnepeg, Manitoba, Canada) against Mark 'The Shark' Miller (Pittsburgh, Pa). Denatale, a Duke Roufus trained fighter, came to the ring as one of the more active fighters in the line up, having fought as one of the top billed fighters in the Heavyweight Gladiators promotions and appearing in K-1 shows in Milwaukee and Las Vegas. In Vegas, his size has been an issue but on this night his first round opponent turned out to be the smallest fighter in the tournament. Miller coming in much trimmer than in recent bouts had a rough start to the evening when his trainer got held up in traffic, after an agonizing wait, they rushed to get Miller's hands wrapped and get ready for the start of the show. Miller never really got his head in the game, as Denatale walked him down and tested him with shots to the head, legs and finally the body, which proved to Miller's undoing. A right hand to the stomach dropped Miller for the count the first time. Denatale then focused his attack to the body and after the second knockdown the bout was over in round one. Denatale gets out injury free. 

Tournament Quarter Final Bout 2
The second quarter final bout of the night saw the tournaments most experienced veteran in Tomasz Kucharzweski against perhaps the greenest fighter to this style in Lane Collyer. Kucharzweski, a kyokushin stylist fighting out of Ontario via Poland has been a figure on the US scene for years fighting in Shidokan and K-1. Collyer of Atlanta, Ga. took a big jump up in experience in this bout. It was a hard lesson learned too as Kucharzweski relentlessly attacked Collyer's legs scoring a knockdown at one point. Collyer tried to weather the storm but the first onslaught lasted nearly the entire first round and in between rounds it was determined Collyer's knee had absorbed too much damage and the towel was thrown in before the second round got underway. Kucharzweski also leaves his first fight uninjured. 

Tournament Quarter Final Bout 3
Not many people were sure what to expect from the third fight of the night. Jeff Ford (Kansas City, MO), is self trained and self managed, a combination that very rarely leads to success. Dan Lucas (Rochester, NY) has been in virtual obscurity since a serious leg injury suffered in 2002 against Carter Williams in the Milwaukee K-1 Qualifier. With rehab complete it was time for a test drive. From the opening bell Ford applied heavy pressure to Lucas and found the mark with nice combinations. Lucas had no chance to get started before being on the receiving end of a count. And with one minute and thirty two seconds left in the first round the ref stops the fight. Ford also advances injury free. 

Tournament Quarter Final Bout 4
It was no secret going into this tournament that Carter Williams (Modesto, CA) was the man to beat. He is, after all, the youngest and largest of all the fighters in the tournament. Someone forgot to tell Kelly 'The Lion' Leo (Atlanta, Ga) that! Leo, another former full contact fighter that is in the process of making a transition to this style of fighting, is trained by Richard Trammell of Shidokan fame. Looking to extend his preparation, he set up camp in Southern California a few weeks before the tournament under the eye of trainer John McPhail of La Puente Muay Thai and Kickboxing. In a relatively short amount of time, John put together a grueling regiment that pushed Leo to his limits and also saw to it that he spent some time with Thai champ Malipet for some technical training. It really showed as this turned out to be the best fight of the night. Leo did not back down from Williams and even set the bigger fighter back on his heals a few times with his straight left. It was a very good round of give and take action, perhaps the only truly competitive round of the evening. Round two saw Carter pick up the pace and use his size to back Leo up. Leo leaves himself open when firing a left cross and gets tagged with a Williams' right and gets a count. Williams secured a second knockdown and the win. 

First Semi Final Bout
Denatale surely had some insight to Kucharzweski's fighting style. The Polish powerhouse dismantled another former Roufus' protégé', Jason Johnson, in Vegas a few years back. Duke stepped up to fight after that and returned the KO favor. No doubt, there was plenty of warning about the power of the veteran. Denatale focuses on Kuch's lead leg while Kuch is content to head hunt. Kuch lands several punches that stop Denatale in his tracks. Denatale refuses to change game plans and eats an increasing amount of punches. At the end of the round, Guiseppe walks into a big right hand and gets a count. Round two sees Kuch swarm Denatale and stun him and then unload a barrage of punches forcing a tentative ref to finally jump in and halt the bout. Kucharzweski advances to the finals to the finals. 

Second Semi Final Bout
These two had met before in a tournament in South Carolina. In a battle for the final, Williams took the bout. As soon as the bout started, it was apparent this time around was not to be nearly as competitive. Early in the bout Carter stuns Ford with a combo ending with a hard knee to the midsection. Sensing the weakness, Carter steps in with a stiff jab to the stomach, Ford goes down claiming low blow. From our vantage point at ringside, which was a clear view of the action the blow was not low. The ref calls time and gives Ford time. When the bout resumes, Williams again goes to the midsection, which from our vantage (same angle) once again was clean, and Ford again claims low blow. More time. Round two saw Carter come on stronger and a combination plants Ford on his rear. Ford does not appear to be in the game and motions that he has had enough. Carter Williams advances to finals. 

Finals
A bout that pitted youth against experience never had a chance to materialize. Only seconds into the first round Kuch attempts a spinning back kick, Williams steps in and kicks for the supporting leg. Something goes wrong as Kuch falls and he is sprawled out over his leg in obvious pain. He does not attempt to beat the count and the doctor rushes in. A closer look at his foot reveals a very swollen foot, perhaps a broken bone. Carter Williams claims another tournament and seals any argument that he is the best tournament fighter in America. 

I would like to offer this thought to all the fighters. The current talent pool in the U.S. is so small that it makes for a very forgiving fight scene. There are multiple chances to reinvent yourself and refine your skills.