**USKBA ACTION SPORTS News of...  ...FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 2004 **

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TAKE YOUR PLACE IN USKBA ACTION SPORTS HISTORY

Will you be competing in the 2004 USKBA ACTION SPORTS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS Amateur Tournaments? If you are competing, you have a chance to be immortalized forever...or at least until there remains a USKBA Website. Win a Gold, Silver or Bronze Medal and we'll place your picture in our USKBA ACTION SPORTS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS "WALL OF FAME" soon-to-be-created WebPage. You'll be proud to tell all your friends and relatives that your picture will remain on the USKBA Website as a USKBA ACTION SPORTS TOURNAMENT CHAMPION.

This year, we will create separate WebPages for USKBA ACTION SPORTS TOURNAMENT CHAMPIONS in Full Contact Kickboxing, San Da, Thaiboxing, Freestyle Sambo and Continuous Contact. If you haven't sent in your Registration Form and fees, do so now. Go for the Gold! To win it, you have to be in it! Enough clichés.

The 2004 USKBA ACTION SPORTS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS Amateur Tournaments will be held on Saturday and Sunday, September 4-5, 2004 at RexPlex Sports Complex in Elizabeth, New Jersey USA. Visit our Tournament section at www.uskba.com/2004tournament.htm. You'll find all you need to know about the tournaments, registration, rules and equipment. Don't delay, do it today! OK...so we fibbed about 'no more clichés'. See you next week.

**USKBA ACTION SPORTS News of...  ...THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2004 **

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2005 USKBA ACTION SPORTS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

After discussions with Tournament Coordinators, the venue, the hotel, many international teams and domestic teams and various US Embassies abroad, the date for the 2005 USKBA ACTION SPORTS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS Amateur Tournaments has been announced. The 2005 USKBA ACTION SPORTS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS Amateur Tournaments will be held on Saturday and Sunday, September 3-4, 2005 at RexPlex Sports Complex in Elizabeth, New Jersey USA.

RexPlex Sports Complex has served as the venue for the past three USKBA ACTION SPORTS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS Amateur Tournaments. It is 200,000 square feet of entertainment and sports. In 2005, we will be utilizing more of the facility. Some major announcements will be made after the 2004 USKBA ACTION SPORTS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS Amateur Tournaments next week.

The date for the 2005 USKBA ACTION SPORTS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS Amateur Tournaments has been decided at this time in order to work with the international teams and their quest to obtain visas and travel documentation to the United States. We have been in contact with various US Embassies and will begin the process of assisting international teams in this matter. In addition, many new plans are in the works that will be announced after the 2004 USKBA ACTION SPORTS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS Amateur Tournaments. 

**USKBA ACTION SPORTS News of...  ...TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 2004 **

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TIME SCHEDULE FOR TOURNAMENT WEEKEND ANNOUNCED

Steve Ventura, Co-Coordinator for San Da Tournament for the 2004 USKBA ACTION SPORTS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS Amateur Tournaments, has announced the time schedule for the entire Tournament weekend. Each planned activity will take place at RexPlex Sports Complex.
 

**USKBA ACTION SPORTS News of...  ...MONDAY, AUGUST 23, 2004 **

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THAIBOXING PEEWEE DIVISION JUST ADDED TO TOURNAMENT

Vladimir Borodine, Coordinator for Thaiboxing Tournament for the 2004 USKBA ACTION SPORTS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS Amateur Tournaments, has just announced that will be running a special "PEEWEE Division". The Thaiboxing PeeWee Division will be for boys and girls, ages 6 through 13. Vladimir said, "We have many kids who would like to compete. After talking with Luis Maisonet (Maisonet's Muay Thai Camp) and Extreme Lacosta (Extreme Muay Thai), we agreed to run a special PeeWee Division at our Tournament". Some of Vladimir's (Borodin's Gym) "PeeWee" students have already registered. They are; 8 yrs, 51 lbs, Joseph Mironov / 6 yrs old, 55 lbs, Steven Gitsin / 6 yrs, 62 lbs, Benjamin Shenkman / 7 yrs, 55 lbs, Daniel Kisel / 7 yrs, 62 lbs, Danis Sharapov / 9 yrs, 62 lbs, Daniel Chpatchev / 10 yrs, 90 lbs, Joshua Geller / 7 yrs, 80 lbs, Victor Strelnikov / 8 yrs, 80 lbs, Asif Kazimov / 10 yrs, 85 lbs, Artem Shekhtner / 13 yrs, 100 lbs, Vladimir Strelnikov / 13 yrs, 130 lbs, Albert Avany.

If anyone has any students who would like to compete in the Thaiboxing PeeWee Division, please complete the regular Thaiboxing Tournament Registration Form (located at www.uskba.com/2004tournament.htm) and indicate at the top of the form "PEEWEE". The Registration Fee for the Thaiboxing PeeWee Division is only $20...but the form and fees must be mailed to; Borodin's Gym, 2209 Avenue Z, Brooklyn New York USA 11235. Please DO NOT mail any forms after August 30th. For additional information, contact Vladimir Borodine at 718-332-7993, or MuayThaiNY@aol.com.

ADVANCE SALE TOURNAMENT TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW!

Tickets for the 2004 USKBA ACTION SPORTS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS Amateur Tournaments are on sale through each Tournament Coordinator. All e-mails of reservations for tickets, should be sent to: 2004tickets@uskba.com.
 

TOURNAMENT COORDINATORS
SAN DA	THAIBOXING	FREESTYLE SAMBO	FULL CONTACT KICKBOXING	CONTINUOUS CONTACT
Tournament Coordinators Steve Ventura David Ross	Tournament Coordinator Vladimir Borodine	Tournament Coordinator Stephen Koepfer	Tournament Coordinator Randall Pogue	Tournament Coordinator Angelo Di Bella

**USKBA ACTION SPORTS News of...  ...SUNDAY, AUGUST 22, 2004 **

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DID "SUPERBOUTS" ANSWER THE HEAVYWEIGHT vs LT. HEAVYWEIGHT QUESTION? ....NAH

Well, it was billed as "Light Heavyweight Champion vs Heavyweight Champion". It was filled with technique and attempted haymakers. Neither kickboxer went down during the five rounds. The only 'battle scar' was from an unintentional headbutt. Depending on who you were rooting for, you saw the advantage for your fighter. USKBA Full Contact Kickboxing Champion RANDALL "The Perfessor" POGUE did battle with JOHN "The Bull" MARZULLO (current Heavyweight World Champion with another organization). Marzullo weighed in at 197 lbs. Pogue weighed in at 186 lbs. Both fighters were ready for this fight. Both fighters came into the fight with confidence. Without going into any 'opinions' of who won the fight, we'll post the judge's scores round by round. 

Round 1:  Judge Hayes = 10-9 Marzullo, Judge Perlini = 10-9 Pogue, Judge Beeman = 10-9 Marzullo.
Round 2:  Judge Hayes = 10-9 Marzullo, Judge Perlini = 10-9 Marzullo, Judge Beeman = 10-9 Marzullo.
Round 3:  Judge Hayes = 10-9 Marzullo, Judge Perlini = 10-9 Marzullo, Judge Beeman = 10-9 Pogue. In this round, Pogue suffered a headbutt which opened a cut under his left eye. Marzullo also missed the minimum 8 kicks per round and was issued a one point deduction on all judges' scorecards. Adjusted scores; Judge Hayes = 9-9, Judge Perlini = 9-9, Judge Beeman = 10-8 Pogue.
Round 4:  Judge Hayes = 10-9 Pogue, Judge Perlini = 10-9 Pogue, Judge Beeman = 10-9 Pogue. Going into the final round, this was the scoring;  Judge Hayes = 38-37 Marzullo, Judge Perlini = 38-37 Pogue, Judge Beeman = 38-37 Pogue.
Round 5:  Judge Hayes = 10-9 Marzullo, Judge Perlini = 10-9 Marzullo, Judge Beeman = 10-9 Marzullo.
Final Scoring:  Judge Hayes = 48-46 Marzullo, Judge Perlini = 47-47 even, Judge Beeman = 47-47 even.
Final Decision: Majority Draw.

The winner was ...the fans. Many people talked about how they would have loved to have seen at least two more rounds. This was an entertaining bout that still didn't answer the original question... "CAN A LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION BEAT A HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION?" Hopefully, the video will be ready soon, so everyone can decide for themselves.

USKBA ACTION SPORTS Promoter Charlie Sampalis (Sampalis Kickboxing) assembled a tremendous "SUPERBOUTS" event on August 21, 2004 at Rhode Island Indoor Sports. In addition to three professional Full Contact Kickboxing bouts and a super amateur undercard, there was a Karate demonstration and Capoera demonstration.

In a scheduled five round pro bout, TONY "TNT" VENTURA squared off against VICTOR GARCIA, Garcia came out strong and attempted to land spinning back kicks. Ventura, a well seasoned pro, just stepped back and waited until Garcia was done and then went on the attack. With solid punches and kicks, Ventura was able to put Garcia on the canvas. Referee Peter Manfredo Sr. kept close watch on Garcia while he counted. Garcia was able to get up before the 10 count and continue. In the second round, Ventura went right to work on Garcia. Again, Garcia went down and got back up. Ventura smothered Garcia with punches and kicks. Garcia fell back into the ropes and couldn't shake out the cobwebs from his head. Referee Manfredo, always looking after the safety of the fighters,  stepped in and waived the fight over. There were no arguments about the stoppage. The winner by TKO at :27 of Round 2 ...Tony Ventura. In another scheduled five round pro bout, former USKBA Amateur Champion ERIC PINARRETA continued his climb through the Super Middleweight Division by defeating RICH ZOLA. While Pinarreta is known for his kickboxing ability, Zola is known mainly as a boxer. Zola also has a reputation of not being stopped. Pinarreta was ready to change that. After winning the first round on all judges' scorecards, Pinarreta put Zola on the canvas in the second round. Zola, a tough competitor, would not back down. Pinarreta, constantly improving on fighting a 'smart fight', was winning every round. In the fourth round, Pinarreta exploited all openings and began a relentless attack on Zola. Zola was unable to defend himself and Referee Manfredo stepped in to stop the fight. The winner by TKO at 1:04 of Round 4 ...Eric Pinarreta.

In amateur USKBA Full Contact Kickboxing action:
EDWIN AGUIRRE def Mike Avila by TKO at 2:00 of Round 3.
SAM TYLER def Shane LaPlante by unanimous decision (29-27, 30-26, 29-27).
JOSEPH KREWKO def Justin Vowles by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28).
CHARLES BISHOP def Dana Blouin by tapout (Grappling).
DAVID LOMBARD def Jonathan Derobbio by TKO at 1:17 of Round 3.
IAN ANDREWS def Ron Sember by TKO at 1:58 of Round 3.
BLAYNE FERREIRA and ANTHONY DAWSON fought to a draw (28-29, 29-28, 28-28).
Kenny Watkinson and Mike Trombetti fought an exhibition.

For information on future "SUPERBOUTS" events, contact USKBA ACTION SPORTS Promoter Charlie Sampalis (Sampalis Kickboxing) at 401-615-9678.

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**USKBA ACTION SPORTS News of...  ...SATURDAY, AUGUST 21, 2004 **

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CAN A LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION BEAT A HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION?

This question will be answered tonight when USKBA Full Contact Kickboxing Champion RANDALL "The Perfessor" POGUE does battle with JOHN "The Bull" MARZULLO (current Heavyweight World Champion with another organization). Pogue holds his title at a 174.9 lb limit. Marzullo holds his title at 215 lb limit. Marzullo will be coming in at 205 lbs. Pogue will be coming in at ????..your guess is as good as ours. Reports have Pogue beefing up to over 190 lbs. Marzullo is know as a brawler and hard puncher. Pogue is know for his technique and speed. Will Pogue try to match strength with Marzullo? Will Marzullo try to match technique with Pogue? Will Pogue try to finesse Marzullo? Will Marzullo try to land that one punch that knocks Pogue out? All this will be answered tonight. 

USKBA ACTION SPORTS Promoter Charlie Sampalis (Sampalis Kickboxing) will be bringing this bout, and many others, to his "SUPERBOUTS" event tonight at Rhode Island Indoor Sports. For tickets or additional information, contact USKBA ACTION SPORTS Promoter Charlie Sampalis (Sampalis Kickboxing) at 401-615-9678.

**USKBA ACTION SPORTS News of...  ...WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 18, 2004 **

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"SUPERBOUTS" ACTION HITS RHODE ISLAND THIS WEEKEND

USKBA ACTION SPORTS Promoter Charlie Sampalis (Sampalis Kickboxing) will be holding another Pro-Am Kickboxing event at Rhode Island Indoor Sports on Saturday, August 21, 2004. Pro Kickboxing bouts will include USKBA Champions; TONY "TNT" VENTURA, RANDALL "The Perfessor" POGUE, JOHN "The Bull" MARZULLO and ERIC PINARRETA. The undercard will feature some top kickboxing talent.

For tickets or additional information, contact USKBA ACTION SPORTS Promoter Charlie Sampalis (Sampalis Kickboxing) will at 401-615-9678.

MISSY FIORENTINO GOES AFTER BOXING WORLD TITLE IN JAPAN

USKBA ACTION SPORTS Promoter Charlie Sampalis (Sampalis Kickboxing) not only is known throughout the kickboxing world, but he's also known in the boxing world. He trained and managed USKBA Amateur World Kickboxing Champion MISSY "The Fury" FIORENTINO. Now he trains and manages Missy Fiorentino in boxing. Through Charlie's work and Missy's unbeaten professional boxing record, Missy will be fighting for the WIBA Featherweight World Championship Title. CES has issued the following Press Release:

“THE FURY” TO BE UNLEASHED IN JAPAN - World title shot Sept. 18 for Missy Fiorentino

PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island (August 17, 2004) – Rhode Island Deputy Marshall Melissa Fiorentino, known in the squared circle as Missy, or “The Fury,” may need some extra time off from her job at the Providence courthouse because she's preparing for her first world title fight September 18 in Japan.

Fiorentino, 27, challenges Women's International Boxing Association (WIBA) featherweight champion Emiko Raika (11-1-1, 5 KOs) in Kyoto. A former kickboxer, the Cranston (RI)-born Fiorentino is unbeaten since turning pro in late 2001, winning nine without a loss, six by knockout. She is ranked No. 3 by the WIBA, as well as No. 2 by the IFBA.

Raika, who has never fought outside of her native Japan, captured the WIBA title December 18 2002, winning a 10-round split decision from Sharon Anyos (6-1). She has successfully defended her crown twice, taking a 10-round majority decision from Anyos in their rematch, and registering a second-round TKO against Shelby Walker (6-3-1) in her last fight (May 23, 2004).

“Raika has never fought anybody like Missy,” Fiorentino’s promoter Jimmy Burchfield (Classic Entertainment & Sports, Inc.) claimed. “Missy reminds old-time fight fans of the great Rocky Marciano because of her relentless, power punching style and they’re both Italian. She’s not going all the way to Japan just for a title shot. She’s going to come home to Cranston as a world champion.” 

**USKBA ACTION SPORTS News of...  ...TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2004 **

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PRE-REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS THIS FRIDAY

Pre-Registration for the 2004 USKBA ACTION SPORTS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS Amateur Tournaments will end on August 20, 2004 (Friday). In order to take advantage of our special Pre-Registration discounted fees, your Registration Forms and fees must be postmarked by August 20, 2004.

All Registration Forms, Rules, Weight Divisions and pertinent information, can be found on our website at www.uskba.com/2004tournament.htm. Don't delay....mail it today!

WELCOME LETTER FROM
ELIZABETH NJ
MAYOR BOLLWAGE

We have just received and posted the Official Welcome Letter from Elizabeth, New Jersey Mayor Bollwage. In this letter, the Mayor welcomes the 2004 USKBA ACTION SPORTS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS and extends his "Best wishes to all for an enjoyable event".

The Mayor goes on to say that his community, Elizabeth NJ, is the 'fourth largest municipality in the State' and has become 'a destination of choice'. He praises the work that RexPlex Sports Complex has done by maintaining a 'state-of-the-art athletic facility with something for everyone. Mayor Bollwage urges everyone to also visit IKEA (flagship furniture store), the Jersey Gardens Mall and their 20 screen Loews Theater. These are all within walking distance from our venue RexPlex Sports Complex.

We have posted a full size version of the Official Welcome Letter from Elizabeth, New Jersey Mayor Bollwage. This letter may be printed from the following link: www.uskba.com/2004mayorletter.htm. 

**USKBA ACTION SPORTS News of...  ...SUNDAY, AUGUST 15, 2004 **

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BORODINE AND SIRAPHOP MEET TO DISCUSS THAILAND - AMERICA ALLIANCE

USKBA ACTION SPORTS Director of Thaiboxing, VLADIMIR BORODINE (Borodin's Gym) and SIRAPHOP RATANASUBAN (Deputy Managing Director of OneSongchai Co, LTD and son of Thailand's largest promoter Songchai), met last week to discuss the state of Muay Thai in their respective countries. Vladimir is well versed on Muay Thai in Thailand and has even brought fighter MOTI HORENSTEIN to Thailand where he won the King's Cup in 1999. This was Siraphop's first visit to the United States. Vladimir and Siraphop met during two days and came away with a partnership that will focus on bringing Thailand fighters to America and American fighters to Thailand to fight on their respective events. Vladimir said "We will focus on our upcoming Tournament and observe the level of the American competitors and report back to Thailand". Although Songchai promotes professional events in Thailand, Siraphop had suggested bringing an amateur fighter form the United States to Thailand to fight on the "S-1 World Championship" events. Vladimir went on to say "This will be a great opportunity for American fighters to fight in Thailand. This is just the beginning of the relationship that will increase the level of Thaiboxing in the United States".

For those interested in being considered for possible fights in Thailand, or to be on an event that will showcase Thailand vs USA, you can contact Vladimir Borodine at MuayThaiNY@aol.com.

**USKBA ACTION SPORTS News of...  ...TUESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2004 **

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FERGUSON OUT, GARCIA IN FOR FREESTYLE SAMBO SUPERBOUT AT 2004 TOURNAMENT

** Press Release **...from Stephen Koepfer

Unfortunately, Rhadi Ferguson - 2004 US Olympic Judoka, originally scheduled to roll with Lance Campbell in the SuperShow at the 2004 North American Freestyle Sambo Championships, has decided not to fight as it is so soon after Athens. A decision we all totally understand and support at the American Sambo Association and USKBA Action Sports. Our hearts and support lie with Rhadi in Athens! Stepping in to fill the spot is Justin Garcia, BJJ Practitioner, 4x Grappler's Quest Champion, 2nd Place finisher at the 2004 GQ US Team Trials, 2x Copa Atlantica Champion. This promises to be a great match!!

The scheduled Freestyle Sambo SuperShow bouts (10 minute matches using Freestyle Sambo advanced rules) are:

Super Heavyweight:
Lance Campbell (Oakdale Mixed Martial Arts Academy - Oakdale, California)
vs. Justin Garcia (Justin Garcia BJJ - Bronx, New York).
Heavyweight:
Rodney Rappe (Liberty Bell Judo/Sambo - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
vs. Juan Berrios (Faustini's Institute of Martial Arts - Oradell, New Jersey)
Middleweight:
Vladislav Koulikov (Ultimate Sambo - Warwick, New York)
vs. Nick Fulciniti (Staten Island Judo, JuJitsu, and Karate Dojo - Staten Island, New York)

**USKBA ACTION SPORTS News of...  ...FRIDAY, AUGUST 6, 2004 **

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NATALIZI KO'S HIS WAY TO BECOMING THE NEWEST USKBA WORLD CHAMPION

**Reported by USKBA ITALY Representative Italo Scrocchia** ...Rome, Italy

On the 31st of July, a new fighter was added to the list of USKBA World Champions. He is GIORGIO NATALIZI, from Rome Italy. Natalizi won the USKBA Leg Kick Super Middleweight World Championship Title against ROBERT WORK, from England. Natalizi was originally scheduled to fight AZIZ RAMANDALI, from France. Ramandali was unable to fight due to an injury he sustained earlier in the week. Work was called on to replace Ramandali.

The USKBA Championship bout, scheduled for twelve rounds, was a hard one for both Natalizi and Work. Work was very strong with his legs and Natalizi was showed more ability with his punches. Until the seventh round, Work was ahead by one point more on the fight scores of the judges. In the eighth round, Natalizi unleashed an impressive series of punches that put Work on the canvas two times. In the ninth round, with a precise right hand, Natalizi floored his opponent. The referee stepped in and stopped the fight. Giorgio Natalizi was crowned the new USKBA Leg Kick Super Middleweight World Champion.

In others results:
 - Kickboxing Female, Amateur, 54 kilos: MARTA PRONTERA (Scrocchia Team, Foggia) won by unanimous decision against SIMONA CAU (Kickboxing Roma).
 - Kickboxing Male, Amateur, 71 kilos: LUCIANO DI LAURO (Samurai Aquila) and VINCENZO TORRETTA (Boxe Avezzano) fought to a draw.
 - Kickboxing PRO, International Fight, 73 kilos: MAX CIANI (Italy) won by TKO in Round 3 against DAVID ALLEN (England).

USKBA Referees and Judges: Italo Scrocchia (see photo at right), Franco Magno (Italy) and Jhon Preston (England). The promoter was Massimo Ciani in collaboration with FENIK. The event was held outdoors at the main place of San Cesario di Roma in Italy.

K-1 "Battle at Bellagio III"
Last Chance To Advance For Tournament Fighters

***For Immediate Release*** ...by Mike Afromowitz

2003 K-1 USA champion Carter Williams, Marvin "The Beastman" Eastman, and "Mighty Mo" will represent The United States in K-1's "Battle at Bellagio III" eight-man, single-elimination tournament on Saturday at Las Vegas, Nevada's Bellagio Hotel and Casino.  The tournament, which will send its winner to a subsequent leg of single-elimination competition in Japan later this year, will air live on Pay-Per-View television.

The three American fighters will be challenged by five competitors who hail from five different countries.  The following is the official draw for Saturday's "Battle at Bellagio III" tournament:

Bracket A:
Carter Williams, United States Vs. Brecht Wallis,  Belgium
Jorgen Kruth, Sweden Vs. Marvin Eastman, United States

Bracket B:
Jan Nortje, South Africa Vs. Alexander Ustinov, Russia
"Mighty Mo'', United States Vs. Sergei Gur, Belarus

The winners of the two quarterfinal round matchups in bracket A will meet one another in the semifinal round of the tournament while the winners of the two quarterfinal round matchups in bracket B will do likewise.  The victors of the two brackets will face one another in the championship round of the tournament. 

At 24 years of age, Williams is the youngest prospect in the field of American martial arts fighters.  He finds himself in a crucial position after being ousted from the quarterfinal round of April 30th's "Battle at Bellagio II" tournament by Mighty Mo.  Williams, who had been called to Japan for a fight only 33 days prior to the spring Las Vegas affair, executed his punch-kick combinations splendidly throughout the bout with Mighty Mo before being suddenly caught against the ropes with a barrage of punches that prompted the referee to step in and call a stoppage in the third and final scheduled round. Wallis is a 26-year old native of Belgium who fled his homeland three years ago to pursue Muay Thai training in Holland, the world's biggest producer of K-1 World Grand Prix champions.  On February 14th, he secured a place in the "Battle at Bellagio III" playoff by defeating three consecutive opponents during the K-1 Scandinavia Grand Prix tournament in Stockholm, Sweden.

Kruth's appearance will be the second of his career in Las Vegas. Nicknamed "The Viking," the 30-year-old Muay Thai stylist is a three-time Grand Prix qualifying tournament champion.  His defining fight to date came on March 17, 2001 when he stopped Stefan Leko by knocking the German superstar down three times in the second round of their Yokohama, Japan matchup.  Eastman was granted a spot in the tournament after he put on a heart-stopping show during his "Battle at Bellagio II" quarterfinal round bout with Canada's Michael McDonald.  The Beastman connected with several jumping knees before drawing first blood and putting McDonald on the canvas in the first round.  In the following round, however, the Canadian was surprisingly able to regroup and score two knockdowns on Eastman. The second knockdown brought the fight to a close by way of technical knockout.

Nortje, an enormous specimen of man at 6 feet 11 inches and 315 pounds, is a world class kickboxer as well as an undefeated boxer who has knocked out all of his 10 opponents in "the sweet science."  On August 17, 2002, the fighter aptly nicknamed "The Giant" made his way to Las Vegas for a K-1 Superfight with Ernesto Hoost.  Hoost stopped Nortje in a thrilling battle.  Ustinov is a 27-year-old rising star native of Russia.  In 2003, he posted an outstanding 9-1 record in K-1 action and captured two qualifying tournament titles.  At 6 feet 6 inches tall and approximately 270 pounds, he is another massive figure amongst K-1's big men. 

A power puncher who enjoys a toe-to-toe slugfest, Mighty Mo came to K-1 from the sport of professional boxing earlier this year.  During the time he spent in his former profession, the 6 foot 1 inch, 275-pounder put away 16 of his 20 victims by way of knockout.  Gur, a training partner and countryman of famed K-1 superstar Alexey Ignashov, is the latest fighting prodigy to come out of the tiny nation of Belarus.  The 26-year-old captured the K-1 Grand Prix qualifying crown in Marseilles, France in January. 

Tickets for "Battle at Bellagio III" are available for purchase both online in the K-1 USA website (www.k-1usa.net) store and at the Bellagio Hotel and Casino box office (1-800-963-9634).  Tickets are priced at $50, $100, $150, and $250, respectively.  The live Pay-Per-View broadcast of the event will begin at 10 PM Eastern Standard Time (7 PM Pacific Standard Time).

For More Information, Contact: Mike Afromowitz, (917) 566-8754 or mike@k-1usa.net / Geoff Moss, K-1 USA Media & Public Relations, (310) 200-1942 or geoff@k-1usa.net.

**USKBA ACTION SPORTS News of...  ...THURSDAY, AUGUST 5, 2004 **

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USKBA FIGHTERS HEAT UP WEST COAST ON CUNG LE'S "BORN TO FIGHT IV"

**Press Release** San Jose, CA... USKBA Member Club NYKK Gym is no stranger to the East Coast but on July 24, 2004 the West Coast got a chance to see two of NYKK's top fighters up close and personal. The event was Cung Le/Team Ush's "Born to Fight IV", sanctioned by the IKF.

In a feature fight of the night for the IKF Amateur San Shou Middleweight United States Championship, NYKK Team co-captain Josh Beauregard, the #1 East Coast ranked San Da fighter, put his reputation and undefeated record on the line against the West Coast's #1 fighter Kevin Rueles. Despite the fact that Beauregard dropped his opponent twice (left hook in the first round, right cross in the second) it was still a toe-to-toe war. But, after four rounds, the east coast pulled it out and Beauregard was named the winner!

NYKK's Ian Morgan faced Muay Thai champion, and Fairtex Gym protege, Evan Esguerra but shut him out, three rounds to none in an undercard match.

Earlier in the evening, NYKK fighter Tim O'Connor demonstrated heart and aggression, agreeing to a major match in only his second fight ever. Ultimately, Tim was just a little short and lost the decision. Expect it to fuel him and expect fire when he competes in the San Da World Championships on September 4, 2004 in Rexplex in NJ.

In the daytime open tournament, NYKK fighter Greg Lachaga captured a gold medal in the Men's 154 lb Division while fellow team mates Norma Avalos and Lino Azevado won 2nd places in their respective divisions.

For additional information on Cung Le's "Born to Fight IV", visit www.ikfkickboxing.com, www.cungle.com, or www.borntofight.com.

**USKBA ACTION SPORTS News of...  ...WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 4, 2004 **

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"ETC2" FILLED WITH STRONG FIGHTS IN AMATEUR THAIBOXING ACTION

Well, if you weren't at USKBA ACTION SPORTS Promoter Extreme Lacosta's (Extreme Promotions) second USKBA Sanctioned event, "ETC2", you missed some tremendous Thaiboxing bouts. There were two USKBA Amateur Thaiboxing Championship bouts scheduled and an amateur undercard featuring some of the top up and coming Thaiboxing talent in the sport today. "ETC2" was held on July 24, 2004 at the Knights of Columbus in Lynbrook NY.

In a scheduled three round bout for the USKBA Amateur Thaiboxing Super Featherweight Northeast Championship Title, TERRENCE HILL (Extreme Muay Thai) faced off against ERIC RUIZ (Progressive Martial Arts Academy). Ruiz had fought on many USKBA Sanctioned events. Hill was bringing his experience from the Junior Division into the Adult Division. Both fighters had the experience and talent to make this a bout not to be missed. And they didn't disappoint the crowd. Hill looked sharp and able to stand toe to toe with Ruiz. Ruiz never backed down. When the bell rang to signal the end of the fight, both fighters received cheers from the crowd. The judges were called on to decide the fate of this fight. Judge Aziz scored the fight 29-28 and Judges Gakh and Wagner scored the fight 30-27 for the winner by unanimous decision ...Terrence Hill.

The other USKBA Title bout was scheduled for four rounds for the USKBA Amateur Thaiboxing Cruiserweight Eastcoast Championship Title. This battle was between YURIY POSOKHOV (Borodin's Gym) and BROOKS MILLER (One Spirit Martial Arts). Miller came in at 186.2 lbs, well below the Cruiserweight limit of 189.9 lbs. Posokhov came in at 201.6 lbs, well above the Cruiserweight limit. Posokhov was given time to try to get down to the maximum weight to fight for the USKBA Title. Unfortunately, he couldn't get there. By virtue of Posokhov not making weight at weigh-in, Miller is awarded the USKBA Title. But, it doesn't end there. Both fighters came to fight. Both fighters did not want to disappoint the crowd. Miller with his trainer, although giving up 15 pounds, decided to fight Posokhov. The USKBA allows fighters to fight up in weight when no title is on the line. This bout was simply two fighters, with dedication and respect for the sport and the fans, getting into the ring to cap off an incredible evening of Thaiboxing action. After four rounds of watching Miller and his experience and Posokhov and his youthful exuberance, the crowd received their icing on the cake. Everyone would wonder about the outcome if both fighters were in the same weight division. The judges gave this fight to Posokhov. While Miller had received the USKBA Amateur Thaiboxing Cruiserweight Eastcoast Championship Title, Posokhov would be awarded the USKBA Amateur Thaiboxing Interim Heavyweight Eastcoast Championship Title. This means that no fighter can fight for that title unless they fight Posokhov. In the meantime, Posokhov and his trainer, Vladimir Borodine, will be deciding just which weight division the 'growing' Posokhov will fight in.

In other USKBA Amateur Thaiboxing action:
ZADIE MORRIS def Agostino Matias by TKO at 1:17 of Round 1.
RON WEBBER and MIGUEL RIVERA fought to a majority draw (27-27, 28-28, 27-29).
DAVID GARDINER def Louis Susino by split decision (30-27, 29-28, 27-30).
DMITRIY SHIRGANOV def Jason Teitelbaum by unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27, 29-28).
STEPHEN O'REILLY def Collis Marques by TKO at 1:49 of Round 2.
STEVEN ZANCA def Ken Ito by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-25, 30-24).
ANDRES JEUDI def Ronald Davis by TKO at :40 of Round 3.
WILLIAM CANNING def Ivan Melendez by split decision (28-29, 30-27, 29-28).
NAS SINGH def Vladimir Strelnikov by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 30-27).
Tyrone Neal and Rafael Motolinia fought an exhibition.
Vladimir Frenkel and Christopher Gray fought an exhibition.
Andy Singh and Robert Bell fought an exhibition.
Jarrell Miller and Albert Gomez fought an exhibition.

The referee was Fred Corritone. The judges were Chris Wagner, Aziz Nabih, Raul Padilla and Igor Gakh. The USKBA Scorekeeper was Tatyana and the timekeeper was Peter Kaljevic. Special thanks to the Officials for the great job they performed and to the following studios for their fighters; Extreme Muay Thai, Borodine's Gym, Maisonet's Muay Thai Camp, Progressive Martial Arts, Church Street Boxing, Sityodtong, Master K, Team Suriyasak, Ultimate Gym and One Spirit Martial Arts.

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The major credit for the success of this event belongs to Kristine from Extreme Muay Thai. This event was discussed and planned way in advance. Unfortunately, after the decision was made to hold this event, Extreme Lacosta's mother took ill. The decision to continue with this event was made by Extreme Lacosta. Both Extreme Lacosta's and Kristine's desire to do what is best for the sport, certainly came through during this difficult period. Kristine assembled and matched great Thaiboxing bouts. Extreme Lacosta made sure that he would be present at the sport he loves as his ETC series of events is becoming a mainstay for Thaiboxing in New York. With all the behind the scene problems and roadblocks that would have stopped most people, Extreme Lacosta and Kristine managed to bring "ETC2", a worthy Thaiboxing event, to the public. Credit is also given to all the fighters, coaches, trainers, managers, Officials and event personnel who understood the circumstances and performed admirably during this event. This is what will help grow the sport.

On a sad note, we have learned that since the "ETC2" event, Extreme Lacosta's mother has passed away. Everyone at the USKBA expresses their condolences and shares in his loss. 

**USKBA ACTION SPORTS News of...  ...TUESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2004 **

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TOM CAMPBELL WINS BOUT AND THEN PROPOSES ON "SUPERFIGHTS" ...BUT NOT TO HIS OPPONENT

USKBA ACTION SPORTS Promoter Joe Puleio (Top Kick Championship Kickboxing) treated the packed house to a great night of USKBA Amateur and WKA Professional kickboxing action. What could be more than that?! How about a marriage proposal? In the second bout of the evening, amateur kickboxers TOM CAMPBELL and "TIGER" KAZUAKI fought it out for the entire three rounds. Campbell is known as an excellent Full Contact Kickboxer. Kazuaki has primarily fought Thaiboxing bouts. Campbell kept the pressure on and Kazuaki responded with aggressiveness on his own. In the first round, Kazuaki went down courtesy of a Campbell front kick. This did not deter Kazuaki. Possibly due to the pressure by Campbell or the Thaiboxing experience of Kazuaki (where kicks are not counted), Kazuaki missed the minimum required kicks in rounds 1 and 3. At the end of three rounds, the judges were called on for their decision. The winner by unanimous decision (30-25, 30-24, 30-24) ...Tom Campbell. The story doesn't end here. About 1,000 people knew what was about to happen. About one person didn't. When Corrine Mangan entered the ring as part of Tom Campbell's entourage, the lights dimmed, Tom walked over to Corrine and got on one knee and one could hear a pin drop. The crowd went wild which prompted the announcer to ask, "Did she say yes?" Corrine shook her head in acknowledgment of her 'yes' answer. Quite unusual for a kickboxing show, but understanding that the people in our sport are a 'family', it was well received by the entire audience. Thank Promoter Joe Puleio for allowing this momentary but joyful diversion.

In other USKBA Amateur bouts:
BRIAN ROCHFORD def Derek Delgado by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27).
JEN LUISI def Maribel Gomez by TKO at :58 of Round 3.
MATT BERMAN def Steven Castelli by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-26).
ADAM ERNST def Rubbie Lugo by TKO at 1:48 of Round 1.
ANTHONY D'ANGELO def Anthony Baranta by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27).
ANTONIO TORIBIO def Alex Gamez by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27).
RAUL NUNCIO def Dan O'Brien by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27).
ANTHONY BATTISTA def Neil Wolfson by unanimous decision (30-24, 30-24, 30-24).
KYLE MURRAY def Nobu Hirooka by unanimous decision (30-26, 30-26, 30-26).
Lennox Chance and Steven Castelli fought an exhibition.

In WKA Professional bouts:
CHRIS ALGIERI def Edelmiro Montero by unanimous decision.
MICHAEL CORLEONE def Angel Muniz by unanimous decision.
Billy Maysonet and Tom Ingargiola fought an exhibition.

For more information on the WKA Professional bouts, please visit their website at www.wkausa.com. The referees were Donnie Carolei, Fred Corritone and Pat Sullivan. The judges were Simon Burgess, Don Kanehl, Fred Corritone and Pat Sullivan. Emily Barnes was the USKBA Scorekeeper. Simon Burgess was the WKA Representative.

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