10 Questions With Justin Scoggins

Justin "Tank" Scoggins

I had first heard about Justin "Tank" Scoggins from my friend Molly Hoskinson early last year when he was fighting for Conflict Promotion's "Fight Night at the Pointe IV". It was Justin's pro debut and he won by an impressive 23 second head kick KO of Timm Kitts. Scoggins was undefeated as an amateur at 6 - 1 (a draw in his first fight) and was the Caged Chaos Bantamweight (ammy) champion after defeating Solon Staley at Caged Chaos III: Wanted. Since turning pro Justin has remained undefeated and is currently 7 - 0 as a professional (13 - 0 - 1 overall) and became the Warfare Flyweight (pro) champion when he defeated Jacob Hebesison at Warfare 7: Invasion. 

Justin fights out of Greenville, SC but also trains with American Top Team in Coconut Creek, FL. He recently tried out for the 18th season of The Ultimate Fighter even though he's a Flyweight (125lbs) and the season would be featuring both male & female Bantamweight (135lb) fighters. The MMA game is very competitive, so for a fighter to be willing to go 10 pounds up in weight is saying something about their ability & talent. (fighters usually drop down in weight trying to gain an advantage over fighters because of how much the added weight on fight night from cutting weight can mean to the outcome of the fight) Justin wasn't selected to join the TUF18 cast, but he posted on his Facebook page that he had a great time at the tryouts and that the experience he gained while there was very valuable. Based on the most recent news of Scoggins being signed to the UFC as a Flyweight, I'm guessing UFC match-maker Joe Silva  was paying attention and liked what he saw from Justin at the TUF18 tryouts. 

Yesterday "Team Tank" had made the announcement that Justin was signed to fight former Strikeforce & Resurrection Fighting Alliance fighter Dustin Ortiz at UFN 27 (or Condit Vs. Kampmann 2 as the UFC is also calling the event) on August 28th which would have been the Octagon debut for both fighters. But as you'll read in the interview (and confirmed by MMAjunkie & Tapology) the fight has since been pulled from the UFN 27 fight card but no official reason was given by the UFC. The only word so far is that one (or both) fighters "could still make a UFC debut in the near future".

I have never met Justin in person, but I feel like I know him. I have considered myself a fan of his ever since I saw the video of that pro debut 1st round head kick KO win... and I have followed his professional career as he fought for promotions like Conflict & Warfare in South Carolina as Justin was gaining experience, collecting a belt, and making his way to the TUF18 try-outs. I am grateful for friends like Molly Hoskinson & Blake Grice who introduced me to this amazing up-and-coming fighter. 

I had wanted to interview Justin Scoggins for awhile now, but once I heard the news about him being signed to the UFC I realized I needed to stop procrastinating & contact him about doing an interview. I realized this is probably a crazy/hectic week for him & his family (but in a good way), but I sent him a message asking if he'd be willing to participate in a quick interview. It was a pleasant surprise when I received an almost immediate response from Scoggins where he agreed to be interviewed. I sent him the questions & he was kind enough to respond to them the same day. It was only a error in my email system that I didn't realize that the responses came back last night... so when I saw them in my inbox this morning I got to work right away working on this article.

In my opinion this show amazing character that Justin would take time out of his busy schedule to answer a few questions, and I appreciate the swift response from "Tank" to help make this interview possible. If you haven't heard of Justin "Tank" Scoggins before this interview, you soon will. His Octagon debut may have been delayed, but it won't be long before the UFC 125lb Flyweight division will see the talent, drive and determination of Scoggins. I predict it won't be long before Justin is challenging for Demetrious Johnson's Flyweight title.

1.  Tell us a little about yourself.

My name is Justin Scoggins. I am a 21 years old Flyweight. professional. My overall record is 13 - 0 (6 - 0 amateur 7 - 0 professional) and I am the current Warfare 125 lb Flyweight (pro) Champion.




2.  How did you get started in MMA?

I started Kempo Karate at age 3. I began wrestling around 8 or 9 years old. And competing in amateur kickboxing at age 11. I knew the goal was to eventually translate it all into MMA



3.  What gym(s) do you train at, and what is it like training there?

I train at American Top Team in Coconut Creek, Fl. Too many top level athletes and fighters to name. Over 30 UFC fighters I believe. There's not a bigger team of studs. The biggest thing I've realized is how important it is to not get "comfortable" with your training. And down at ATT  there's so many DIFFERENT great fighters to train with, you're always on your toes. I also have the best s&c coach in the business, Brian Harris. Hands down the best. It's just a very friendly place, great to learn, filled with talented coaches and fighters. When I'm back home in Spartanburg, SC I train at Revolution Martial Arts with Coach Jimmy Fowler. It's the best place to train in SC. Jimmy Fowler has a top notch ground game, and Sara McMann (UFC Bantamweight) trains there. And I wouldn't doubt an Olympic Silver Medalist. Another great friendly place to train hard and learn. I also train with 2 amazing stand up coaches back in SC. Blake Grice has really helped me elevate my Muay Thai game, while also being the best referee I've met. Cody Freeland is a Kempo Karate black belt and excellent at incorporating karate into my MMA game. And finally I train with wrestling coach Trent Goodale at Limestone College. Trent is a former Iowa Hawkeye. And a really good friend. I'm lucky to be surrounded by amazing people to train with, but also amazing friends



4.  What do you feel your strengths are as a fighter?  What do you feel you need to work on to be a more complete fighter?

I feel my biggest strength is being able to adapt to the fight no matter what situation I'm put in. I feel like I need to continue doing what I'm doing to become the most complete fighter I can. Training all aspects, everyday. Working every angle.




5.  How did your experience trying out for TUF18 help you develop as a fighter?

It went great. It was an awesome experience and the UFC is truly the most professional organization and handles everything. It definitely helped me mature career-wise. And realize how real this is and how important it is to continue to treat this as a lifestyle.




6.  You are set to fight Dustin Ortiz at UFC Fight Night 27. How are you preparing for this fight, and what do you expect from your opponent?

The fight was scratched. Waiting to be scheduled next fight. Ortiz had to pull from the fight. Not sure of exact reasons but he was not approved by Indiana state athletic commission from what I have heard.



7.  If you could fight anyone who would that be?

Honestly, I'm ready to work my way through the ranks, do my time and fight everyone. It's gonna be an awesome ride



8.  Who are some of your role models?

In MMA I've always looked up to Anderson Silva and Georges St. Pierre. Anderson for his striking and attitude, and GSP because of his ability to always come out a winner. Also Jon Jones, for being such a dominate athlete at such a young age. That's what I wanna do. I look up to Sara McMann in MMA and life. She's an incredibly hard worker and the mentally toughest person I know. My parents are role models for me as well. They are truly selfless in the way they've supported my through my life and career. I wouldn't have gotten this far without them.



9.  What are your goals in MMA?

My goal is to be world champion and pound for pound greatest. And I see myself being the best.



10. Is there anyone you would like to thank?

Everyone at American Top Team, Revolution Martial Arts, and the wrestling team at Limestone College. Huge thanks to Mom and Dad, my girlfriend Karly, and my entire family for being so supportive. Thanks to Monte Cox and Chas Bowling of  T.E.A.M. And thank you guys!

At the TUF18 try-outs with Varon Webb (r) & Tim Goodwin (l)

With Jordan Lawson & Hector Urbina

With UFC Middleweight contender Derek Brunson

With TUF14 winner Diego Brandao

With UFC Flyweight contender John Dodson

With UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones

Justin with his family

Justin signing his UFC contract

Justin "Tank" Scoggins Highlights

20 Pennsylvania Fighters You Should Know

20 Pennsylvania Fighters You Should Know

Pennsylvania has a tradition of having some superstars in MMA. You probably already know of Pennsylvania fighters like former Lock Haven wrestler & TUF1 competitor Josh Koscheck, former WEC Light Heavyweight Champion Brian Stann, UFC Middleweight contender Tim Boetsch, UFC Featherweight Jimy Hettes just to name a few, but this is a list of up-and-coming fighters or veterans that if you haven't heard of them already, I believe you soon will. Some have fought for promotions like Bellator, Strikeforce, King of the Cage, and even the UFC... and others have only fought for local promotions as they try to make it to the larger promotions. This list is far from complete, but I feel this is a good representation of fighters from Pennsylvania to watch, because (as I said above) if you don't know them already, you probably will very soon.

Do yourself a favor and go see local Pennsylvania promotions when they are in your area putting on an event. It is by supporting promotions like Complete Devastation, Gladiators of the Cage, XFE Cage Wars, Pinnacle Fighting Championships, World Cagefighting Championships, Cage Fury Fighting Championships that the stars of tomorrow can be seen. Catch them when they come to your area, because it shouldn't be long before the only way you can see them will be when they fight on networks like NBC Sports, AXS TV, Fox Sports 1, Spike TV, or on Pay-Per-View.

This list isn't in order, because it would be too hard to rank all of these fighters. This is just a guide of some of the many Pennsylvania MMA fighters you need to be checking out, before they make it BIG!

#SupportLocalMMA #SupportPennsylvaniaMMA  

1. Scott Heckman

Scott "The Animal" Heckman is 15 - 4 and fights out of Nazareth, Pa. Heckman's last fight was a loss to Terrell at XFE 24 in the Featherweight (145 pro) division. Prior to that loss Scott Heckman had been on a 7 fight win streak, and I feel he will get back to his winning ways very soon & that the UFC will come calling before 2014 is over. Follow him at The_Animal27 and check out his page at http://www.teamheckman.com/ 

2. Mark Cherico

Mark Cherico (a.k.a. "The Pride Of Bloomfield") is an Featherweight fighter (145 pro) out of Bloomfield, Pa. Cherico is currently 5 - 0 as a professional (14 - 0 overall) and his last fight was a 2nd round TKO win over Donny Walker at Pinnacle Fighting Championships "Pittsburgh Challenge Series 3" to become the PFC Featherweight (pro) champion. I would love to see a fight between Mark Cherico and Scott Heckman, but since they fight for competing promotions this is unlikely until both fighters make it to the next level and fight for a national/regional promotion. You can follow him at MarkChericoMMA.


3. Paul Felder

 Paul Felder is a Lightweight fighter (155lb pro) fighting out of the Philadelphia area. He is 5 - 0 as a pro (8 - 1 overall) and Felder's last fight was a win over Corey Bleaken at CFFC 24. As a pro Felder has fought for promotions like CFFC, XFE & PFC, and with his exciting style and history of winning by TKO/KO I expect a regional/national promotion to sign him very soon. 

4. George Sullivan

George Sullivan is technically a New Jersey fighter, but he fights for CFFC & Ring of Combat, so I include him in the Pennsylvania fighter category. Sullivan is the current CFFC Welterweight (170lb pro) champion. Sullivan is 14 - 3 as a professional and recently defended his title against a very tough Jesus Martinez at CFFC 26. George is a beast at 170 and I expect to see him in a major promotion by mid 2014.

5. Cody Karlheim

Cody "Lenny" Karlheim is one of the many Dignan/Brumbaugh MMA fighters that is shaking things up in Central Pennsylvania MMA. Karlheim is called the "King of the Altoona Amateurs" by Cage Nation TV co-host Albert Cameron. "Lenny" is 3 - 1 as an Featherweight (145lb ammy) fighter fighting out of Ebensburg, Pa. His last fight was a win over Derek Hayes at CDMMA 7 but Karlheim is currently recovering from knee surgery to repair damage to the ACL of his knee. Karlheim had been in line to fight for the Complete Devastation Featherweight (ammy) title, and hopefully he is able to compete on the CDMMA 9 fight card for November 2013, possibly against current champion Rich Cantolina. Recently Cody was awarded his BJJ Purple Belt from coach Jason Dignan of Dignan/Brumbaugh MMA. You can follow him at youngLeonard621.     

6. Ricky Nuno

Ricky "El Numero Uno" Nuno is a Lightweight (155lb pro) fighter out of Bensalem, Pa. Nuno is 2 - 1 as a pro (6 - 2 overall) and his most recent fight was a win over Greg Wolfe at XFE 24. Nuno is scheduled to face Christian Leonard at CFFC 27 September 21st.

7. Dominic Mazzotta

Dominic "The Honey Badger" Mazzotta is a Featherweight (145 pro) fighter out of Lower Burrell, Pa. Mazzotta is 2 - 0 as a pro (9 - 1 - 1 overall) and was the former NAAFS Featherweight (ammy) champion before turning pro. Mazzotta's most recent fight was a devastating 1st round KO head kick against Jeremiah Yeager for Gladiators of the Cage.

8. Clark Young

Clark Young is a Heavyweight (265lb ammy) fighter out of Washington, Pa. Young is 4 - 2 as an amateur and his most recent fight was a win over OJ Vickers for Gladiators of the Cage. The next fight for Young is scheduled to be against Chris Pierce at PFC's Pittsburgh Challenge Series 4 on August 24th. You can follow him at clark_young_85. 

9. Jessica Richman

Jessica Richman is a Bantamweight (135lb ammy) fighting out of the Philadelphia area. Richman is 2 - 0 as an amateur and her most recent fight was a Unanimous Decision win over Jamie Chesney for Gladiators of the Cage. The next scheduled fight for Richman is supposed to be against tough South Carolina fighter Alexa Conners. 

10.Shawn Downs

Shawn Downs is a Lightweight (155lb ammy) fighter fighting out of West Mifflin, Pa. Downs is 5 - 0 as an ammy and his most recent fight was a win against Sean Diehl to win the World Cagefighting Championships Lightweight (ammy) title. The next scheduled fight for Downs is against Travis List for the Gladiators of the Cage Lightweight (ammy) title on September 7th.

11.Brett Shoenfelt

Brett "Showtime" Shoenfelt is a Welterweight (170lb pro) fighting out of Hollidaysburg, Pa. Shoenfelt is 5 - 3 as a pro (11 - 5 overall) and his most recent fight was a win over Billy Ward at Complete Devastation 8. Shoenfelt was set to fight at VFL 42, but due to his opponent coming in way over weight the fight was cancelled. "Showtime" has expressed interest in wanting to fight his former High School teacher & assistant wrestling coach Charlie "The Spaniard" Brenneman, but Brenneman has since dropped from Welterweight (170lbs) to Lightweight (155lbs). Shoenfelt has made connections with both XFE Cage Wars & Gladiators of the Cage, so hopefully he will be fighting again soon. Brett has shown support for his old High School by working with the wrestling boosters as well as sponsoring a dirt track race car driver.

12.Jesus Martinez

Jesus "Chavo" Martinez is a Welterweight (170lb pro) fighting out of Philadelphia, Pa. Martinez is 8 - 4 as a pro (12 - 5 overall) and his last fight was a loss to George Sullivan as he tried to win the CFFC Welterweight title at CFFC 26. Martinez has fought for Bellator, XFE Cage Wars, CFFC, & King of the Cage and is always a tough competitor. He is one of the main instructors at Martinez BJJ in Philadelphia.

13.Darrell Horcher

Darrell "The Saint" Horcher is a Lightweight (155lb pro) fighter out of Shermansdale, Pa. Horcher is 7 - 1 as a pro (11 - 2 overall) and his most recent fight was a loss to Phillipe Nover at Bellator 95. Horcher is known to Central Pennsylvania MMA fans for his amazing head kick KO of tough fighter George "Lights Out" Sheppard at Complete Devastation 5. He has fought in Bellator three times and was on a 7 fight win streak before his loss to Nover. I expect for Horcher to get back in the win column again - if not for Bellator, then for another big promotion. Horcher is the current Complete Devastation Lightweight (pro) champion.

14.Shane Valko

Shane Valko is a Bantamweight (135lb ammy) fighter out of Johnstown, Pa. Valko is 6 - 1 as an ammy and his last fight was a loss to Jerrell Hodge for the NAAFS Lightweight (ammy) title at Night of Champions 2012. Valko is also training in BJJ at Dignan/Brumbaugh MMA at the Gallitzin facility as well as training at other gyms in Cambria County. Previous to that loss to Hodge Valko was on a 6 fight win streak, and I expect him to get back in the win column very soon. Shane had been talking about being ready to make his pro debut, and was hoping to do so at an event near his Johnstown home.

15.Brandon Lux

Brandon Lux is a Middleweight (185lb ammy) fighter out of Johnstown, Pa. Lux is 2 - 0 as an amateur and his last fight was a win over Scott Athey at VFL 40 in Altoona. Lux was scheduled to fight Roman Swaner at VFL 42, but Swaner came in way under the 185lb limit and the Pennsylvania State Athletic Commission wouldn't sanction the fight. Brandon is a tough fighter out of Johnstown's "Damage Inc." gym.

16.Caleb Dobosh

Caleb "Costa" Dobosh is a Middleweight (185lb ammy) fighter out of Pittsburgh, Pa. Dobosh is 2 - 1 as an ammy and his last fight was a win over Jarod Newbraugh at PFC's Pittsburgh Challenge Series 3. Dobosh's next scheduled fight is against Mark Mangiardi at PFC's Pittsburgh Challenge Series 4. You can follow him at CalebDobosh.

17.Paul McAleer 
 

Paul "P-Mac" McAleer is a Bantamweight (135lb ammy) fighting out of Altoona, Pa. McAleer is 2 - 0 as an amateur and his most recent fight was a win against Jonathan Coffman at World Cagefighting Championships 6 in Greensburg. McAleer is a member of Dignan/Brumbaugh MMA and his fans have been called the "P-Mac-A-Maniacs".

18.Eli Garshnick
 

Eli Garshnick is a Middleweight (185lb pro) fighter out of Blairsville, Pa. Garshnick is 9 - 5 as a pro (15 - 6 overall) and his most recent fight was a win over Donald Crawford at VFL 40 in Altoona. Garshnick is the current WCC & VFL Middleweight (pro) champion, and is a member of the Cold Steel MMA & Wrestling team.

19.LaRon Williams

LaRon Williams is a Welterweight (170lb ammy) fighter out of Johnstown, Pa. Williams is 3 - 0 as an amateur and his most recent fight was an Armbar submission win over Robert Best at Complete Devastation 3 in Johnstown. Although it has been awhile since Williams has fought inside the cage, he has been keeping up with his BJJ & MMA training at Dignan/Brumbaugh MMA in Gallitzin as well as training at Cambria County Martial Arts. Williams has been a training partner for former UFC fighter Charlie Brenneman when he trains in Cambria County. Hopefully LaRon will return to the cage soon, because he truly is an exciting fighter to see in action.

20.Charlie Brenneman
 

Charlie "The Spaniard" Brenneman is a Lightweight (155lb pro) from Hollidaysburg, Pa. Brenneman is 18 - 5 as a professional (23 - 5 overall) and his most recent fight was a Unanimous Decision win over Gemiyale Adkins at CFFC 25. Brenneman was supposed to fight Ronnie "Bam Bam" Rogers for the CFFC Lightweight (pro) Title at CFFC 26 back on August 17th but after a successful weigh-in & face-off Rogers suffered from severe dehydration and had to go to the E.R. - the doctor wouldn't allow the fight to continue even after Rogers received fluids and his condition improved. "The Spaniard" is a former UFC Welterweight fighter who fought 8 times (4 - 4) before being released after some disappointing losses. Since being released from the UFC Brenneman dropped to Lightweight and is on a 3 fight win streak. Had the Rogers fight happened & Brenneman won impressively, he could have found himself back in the UFC again - this time as a Lightweight. I expect Charlie to get back to the UFC some time early in 2014. You can follow him at SpaniardMMA.  



Honorable Mention:

Cody Garbrandt, Anton Berzin, Tim Williams, Khama Worthy, Ethan Goss, Jeff Smith, Ryan Cafaro, Rich Cantolina, Doug Haupt, Justin Bonitatis, Jonathan Coffman, Jason Willett, Jason Royer, Mike Wilkins, Devon Estes, Nicholas Willey, Maggie O'Neill, Jonas Rubiano, Shawn McMahon, Zach Shultz, Chris Dempsey, Blaine Shutt, Jamie Chesney, Bassil Hafez, Daniel Coffman, Mitchell Killeen, and Brad Mountain.

Jessica Eye and Justin Scoggins signed to UFC

Jessica "Evil" Eye & Justin "Tank" Scoggins Signed to the UFC

 

Yesterday was a big day for two up-and-coming fighters, a day that put them one step closer to them realizing their dreams. Justin "Tank" Scoggins of South Carolina and Jessica "Evil" Eye of Ohio announced that they had been signed to the UFC. 

Jessica Eye is reported to be fighting in October at UFC 166. The opponent hasn't been announced yet, but rumor has it that Sarah Kaufman will face Eye at the Houston, Texas event that is headlined by the Heavyweight Title fight (and "rubber match") between Junior dos Santos & current champion Cain Velasquez. Kaufman was set to fight undefeated Olympic Wrestler Sara McMann until McMann got injured and had to pull out of the fight. When no suitable replacement was found in time for the Ultimate Fight Night 27 match the fight was pulled from the fight card. With news of the UFC signing Jessica Eye talks of her fighting Kaufman in October at UFC 166 began. If this is true, Eye will face a very tough competitor for her Octagon debut. Eye was a top contender in the Bellator fight promotion, before they decided to close down their women's division recently. Eye has a win over former Bellator women's 115lb champion Zoila Gurgel. She is 10 - 1 as a professional, and her most recent win was a Unanimous Decision over Brazilian Carina Damm in an NAAFS event held in Ohio.

Justin Scoggins is an undefeated fighter out of South Carolina with a pro record of 7 - 0. If you count his amateur record Scoggins is 13 - 0 - 1 with the only blemish to his perfect record being a draw in his very first fight. Scoggins is set to face Dustin Ortiz at UFC Ultimate Fight Night 27 (a.k.a. Condit Vs. Kampmann 2) in a fight that will be the Octagon debut for both fighters. Ortiz was also recently signed to the UFC and is no easy match for "Tank". Ortiz is 11 - 2 as a professional (13 - 3 overall) and has fought for promotions such as Strikeforce, King of the Cage, and Resurrection Fighting Alliance. His most notable opponent was Ian "Uncle Creepy" McCall, who he lost to back in 2011. McCall is a current UFC contender in the 125 lb division who has fought for the Flyweight title when he was part of the main event at UFC on FX - Johnson Vs. McCall. This fight between Scoggins & Ortiz a case of "steel sharpening steel". Both fighters could shake up the UFC 125lb division, and Scoggins could jump into the spotlight win an impressive win over Ortiz on August 28th.

    

This is an exciting time for both the men's 125lb and the women's 135lb divisions in the UFC. In September the latest season of The Ultimate Fighter will air, and this season is unique because of how it will have both men & women competing & living in the same house together. The coaches for this season are UFC women's champion Ronda Rousey and former Strikeforce champion Miesha Tate. Justin Scoggins had tried out for this season if TUF, even though he fights at 125lbs and the competition was for the 135lb division for both men & women. So Jessica Eye is coming into the UFC at a time when the 135lb division is about to be expanded with new fighters like competitors Jessamyn Duke, Tara LaRosa, Tonya Evinger, Roxanne Modafferi & Shayna Baszler possibly joining the already stacked Bantamweight division. Justin Scoggins and Dustin Ortiz join an already exciting Flyweight division which is known for the fastest fighters & tons of action.

I wish all the newly signed fighters to the UFC the very best & I hope both Scoggins & Eye do very well in their Octagon debuts. I have been saying for awhile now that these were two fighters to watch, and with them being signed to the UFC it won't be long before they become household names. If the past is any indication of the future, I predict both Justin & Jessica will have a bright future in the UFC.

Jessica Eye signing her UFC contract at the Cleveland Browns stadium

Jessica with Cage Nation TV co-hosts Drew (l) & Albert (r)

Warfare Flyweight Champion

With UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones

 

 

 

Review - Ultimate MMA Magazine

Ultimate MMA Magazine

Recently I got myself into a bit of trouble (figuratively) over this issue of Ultimate MMA magazine with Ronda Rousey on the cover. Nothing major, I just sparked a debate when I shared the link about this issue, most of the controversy was over my opinion about the caption for the main article. 

I am a big supporter of women in MMA, and my O.C.D. way of thinking didn't see the word "Nasty" as being used in a positive way. My cousin agreed with me, but it wasn't long before managing editor for the magazine Breanna Armstrong responded that I might have misunderstood things a bit. I was willing to agree that their intention was good, but that someone should have taken a few seconds to reconsider what message they were sending out with that caption.

I was contacted by Breanna and she suggested I check out that issue specifically to see that the magazine wasn't guilty of what I thought they might be - just using potentially shocking/offensive buzzwords just to sell a magazine without having anything of substance to back up the attention.

Those of you who know me know that I have definite opinions, and even though I consider myself to be open-minded, most of the time my opinions are firm. But this was a case where I was willing to admit I might be wrong, and so when the magazine arrived I found myself in the pleasantly surprising position of gladly reevaluating my position and changing my opinion.

First off I want to say that I'm not surprised that the magazine is well written, and professionally put together. And for the record I understand where the "nasty" in the "Nasty Ronda Rousey" caption comes from. I'm sure most people familiar with the UFC and Dana White recognize this as being a reference to a quote about Ronda he made where he says, "She's mean, she's nasty and she likes to finish people and she's very talented." White gave variations of this quote in response to being asked why he had changed his mind about allowing women into the UFC. (Check YouTube for the TMZ video where White was asked 'when will women compete in the UFC' and he responds 'never')

Here is a link to an article with a video where you get the full story about how Ronda changed his mind, and why women are now competing in the UFC. http://www.csnbayarea.com/sportsnetBayArea/search/v/71343384/dana-white-ronda-rousey-on-chronicle-live.htm

But back to the magazine...

I can say that I enjoyed reading every article in this issue, and that I am glad I got over my initial ideas about what I felt the use of one word on the cover meant to the big picture, because this is a very good publication and the magazine is well worth reading. I highly recommend people subscribe to Ultimate MMA magazine if the want the latest in MMA news from a unique perspective. 

The cover story referring to Rousey is a "Top 20" of women MMA fighters, and I agree with the magazine placing Ronda at the #1 spot. The rest of the list (titled "Taking Down Ronda: What if these top female fighters had a chance to battle the champ?") is a detailed listing of some of the best female fighters in MMA. I don't necessarily agree with some of the fighters and where they are ranked in this article, I can't argue with the reasoning behind why they chose these fighters. 

 I enjoyed the pictorials (especially the "Ring Girl of the Month" Jordan McDonald) and the other articles, like the Top 5 rankings for each division in MMA Again, I might disagree with the rankings, but that's subjective and everyone ends up letting their personal favorites as well as the fighters they don't like effect how they rank fighters... I am guilty of this just like anyone who offers up a ranking list.

I especially like the segments/articles where Ultimate MMA goes over technique & breaks them down for readers to learn new techniques. To a Judo practitioner like myself this is something I always look for when I choose a magazine to read. I enjoy learning new moves, and having them detailed by experts in the field is a big plus in my opinion.

The part I feel I must mention is from managing editor Breanna Armstrong herself. In an opening segment editorial titled "Round 1 - Here To Stay" Breanna details how women's MMA has "come a long way since December 5th 2000" when Marloes Coenen fought  Becky Levi at the Remix World Cup 2000 in Japan.

Had I read this editorial before I saw the front cover I would never had questioned the motive of the magazine using the word "nasty" in reference to a female MMA fighter. I owe an apology to the magazine in general & Breanna Armstrong in specific, because after reading the magazine & her editorial I have no doubts that this magazine has good intentions about promoting MMA, especially women in MMA.

I can't speak more highly about this magazine - an d I'm glad to say that I am still open-minded enough to allow a differing opinion & more information effect my viewpoint & opinions. I have Breanna Armstrong & Ultimate MMA magazine to thank for that.

The official website for the magazine is http://www.ultimatemmamag.com/ and it is a monthly publication. The magazine comes from the people behind the Beckett price guides for trading cards, and the info from the "About" section on the magazine's Facebook page says:

 

Our monthly magazine is devoted to the sport of MMA and the lifestyle that accompanies it. Our full-color magazine features stories for new fans, casual fans, hardcore fans and fighters.

Beckett.com offers collectors instant access to the world's leading trading card databases, including the ability to organize, price, buy, sell and trade.

Bottom line is I recommend you get your hands on Ultimate MMA magazine, inside the issue are offers for subscriptions with nice discounts. I haven't checked the official website regarding subscriptions, but I'm guessing there are similar offers available online as well. Do yourself a favor & subscribe to this magazine now... you can thank me later.

 

10 Questions With Shawn Downs

WCC Lightweight (Ammy) Champion Shawn Downs

Back in June of 2012 I had the privilege of attending World Cagefighting Championships IV in Greensburg, Pa. The entire fight card was filled with amazing fights, and among them was the amateur debut of local Pittsburgh fighter Shawn Downs. Just 2 years out of West Mifflin High School, the blue-collar worker from the Steel City of Pennsylvania Downs is quickly making a name for himself in MMA. Since that first win against Steven Jones at WCC IV Downs has fought 4 more times, remaining undefeated at 5 - 0 as he heads into Gladiators of the Cage "The Road To Glory V" on September 7th in Pittsburgh against Travis List. 

One year after making that impressive debut at WCC IV Downs fought and defeated Sean Diehl for the World Cagefighting Championships Lightweight (Ammy) Title at WCC VI. This fight was one of the first fight in Pennsylvania under the "advanced" amateur rules, and was among the very first titles fights under the new amateur rules. This upcoming fight against Travis List will be for the Gladiators of the Cage Lightweight (Ammy) Title. Gladiators of the Cage has been putting together some amazing fight cards with incredible match-ups, so this title fight between Downs & List should be filled with fireworks as the fighters stake their claim at being the 155lb champion of GotC ammys. If you are anywhere near Pittsburgh and are available to see some awesome fights September 7th, call (412) 820-0657 or visit http://cagetix.com to get your tickets NOW because you DO NOT want to miss this event!

Recently I had the pleasure of interviewing Shawn Downs to find out more about this up-and-coming Lightweight fighter as he prepares for his fight against List and his attempt to add another belt to his resume. I am grateful that he took time from his busy training schedule to answer a few questions... here is 10 Questions With Shawn Downs.

Road To Glory V - September 7th

1. Tell us a little about yourself.

My name is Shawn Downs. I am 21 years old. I'm a amateur Lightweight (155 lbs) fighter. My record is 5-0 and I am the current World Cagefighting Championships Lightweight Champion. And I train out of PTT-Personal Training Tactics under Owner/Operator Don Kaecher in Pittsburgh, PA


2. How did you get started in MMA?

There isn't really a huge reason why I got started in training MMA. I always loved watching The Karate Kid movies and Bloodsport with Jean Claude Van Damme really caught my interest. The first ever footage of UFC I ever saw was a highlight reel of Phil Baroni. After that I started watching The Ultimate Fighter religiously. I started actually training a year after high school. Myself and my friends started consistently ordering the UFC PPVs and we were always playing the UFC video games. And I thought to myself that I could do this. My friend mentioned a gym he trained at called TFS-Tactical Fight Systems in Bethel Park so I started going almost everyday immediately.


3. What gym(s) do you train at, and what is it like training there?

I currently train at PTT-Personal Training Tactics under Don Kaecher. It is without a doubt the best gym in Pittsburgh and Don Kaecher is by far the best coach. He has trained almost every top fighter in Pittsburgh. He was 9-1 as a professional MMA fighter and his only loss was to UFC Veteran Hermes Franca. His been training MMA since 1997 so his knowledge for MMA is the best you can get. My training partners are Bob Bianchini he is 3-4 as a lightweight ammy and his next fight is September 7th for Gladiators of the Cage. Chris Dempsey who is 6-1 as a Professional. And Dempsey throws me around like a rag-doll but nobody I fight will have his strength or wrestling so it's a big help to me. And Justin Stonick who will be making his ammy debut August 10th and his a beast! His a featherweight and he started cutting from 190 pounds so look out for this kid.


4. What do you feel your strengths are as a fighter?

I feel my strength as a fighter is my ground game. I feel that my Jiu-Jitsu can hang with any fighter right now. I have power in my hands but I let the big bombs set-up my takedowns. I never wrestled a day in my life but Chris Dempsey and Don Kaecher have really helped my takedowns and control on the ground.


5. What do you feel you need to work on to be a more complete fighter?

I feel I need to work on my stand-up more. I'll stand and trade with anybody but if you give me the option to take you down I'm taking it. My coach has specifically been working on utilizing my reach more because I consider myself a pretty big lightweight standing at 6'0 and walking around 170 pounds so size and strength are never a concern for me.


6. You recently won at WCC VI in Greensburg back in June against Sean Diehl to win the World Cagefighting Championships Lightweight (Ammy) Title. What is next for you?

WCC VI Title fight was a great fight for me. I knew Diehl was a ground fighter which made me want to prove that I was the better ground fighter. He toke me down and I locked in a triangle and it was over. My next fight is August 10th in Sharon, PA for the promoter Chuck Haskell and the event is called Quaker Steak & Lube Fight Night 1. I'll be fighting Jake Schilling out of Pittsburgh Fight Club who is 3-1. It was originally slated as a Title Fight but since Schilling lost in his last fight the PA Athletic Commission might not approve it. My next fight after that is September 7th for Gladiators of the Cage and that will be for there Amateur Lightweight Title against Travis List who is also 3-1. Update: The fight with Schilling did not happen. Downs next fight is on September 7th at Gladiators of the Cage: Road To Glory V against Travis List for the Lightweight (Ammy) Title


7. Is there a fighter that you would like to fight that you haven't had a chance to fight yet?

There is a couple amateur lightweights that I'd like to have the chance to fight. Nick Browne who I believe is 7-1 would be a great fight. Fadi Shuman who is 4-0 and both this guys are ranked on all the Amateur Lightweight Rankings. I respect what they bring to the cage and I want to fight the best amateurs before turning professional.


8. Who are some of your role models?

My number one role model is my coach Don Kaecher. He works so hard to make sure me and teammates have everything we need and all the tools to compete at a high level in this sport. PTT is a family and we will always be that. His been doing this since I was 5 years old so I trust everything he has to say and he will always be my coach/friend/mentor.


9. What are your goals in MMA?

My goals for MMA are the same as everybody who takes this sport seriously. The UFC is everybody's dream. I hope to have 2 or 3 more amateur fights and make the transition to be a professional in early 2014. I'm only 21 years old and I've only been training 2 years so I'm being smart about it and taking things slow so I don't burn myself out in 10 years.


10. Is there anyone you would like to thank?

I'd like to thank my coach Don Kaecher for all the training and advice he has given me over the last year. my Mother, my Aunt Chris, my Uncle Jimmy, my twin cousins Ciara & Colin and Lindsey for supporting me from day one and always making the trips to my fights. And I'd like to give a huge thanks to my girlfriend Amanda. It is not easy being with a fighter. She's the reason why I train so hard and go through the rough weight cuts and without her none of this would be possible. And all my teammates at PTT you guys are the best around! and Thank you to Jeff McConnell for giving me the chance to do this interview.

Rogers Vs. Breenneman at CFFC 26

Ronnie Rogers (l) Vs. Charlie Brenneman (r) at CFFC 26

This is an AWESOME match-up that I have been talking about since Brenneman left the UFC! Rogers was in Bellator for 2 events & Brenneman is on a 3 fight win streak at lightweight - this fight between Ronnie "Bam Bam" Rogers & Charlie "The Spaniard" Brenneman could have UFC implications - I'm sure Dana White is having Joe Silva pay attention to this fight!

Ronnie “Bam Bam” Rogers will now fight Charlie “The Spaniard” Brenneman for the vacant Cage Fury Fighting Championships lightweight title after Kyle “Alleycat” Baker was forced to pull out due to an injury.

Baker, the hard puncher from Virginia, posted on his Facebook page that he had suffered an “ac sprain and deep bone bruise” to his shoulder, and that he hopes to fight the new champion in October. He apparently injured the shoulder while wrestling.

In steps Rogers, a South Carolina native who sports a 17-11 record, including two bouts this year with the Bellator promotion. Rogers lost to Joe Taimanglo via north-south choke in the second round at Bellator 94 on March 28. That loss snapped a four-fight win streak, including a decision victory against Shane Crenshaw at Bellator 88 on Feb. 7.

In his career, Rogers has faced such MMA veterans as Rich Clementi, Deividas Taurosevicius, Kurt Holobaugh, and Diego Saraiva.

Brenneman, from AMA Fight Club in Whippany, is 18-5 and has won both of his fights since joining CFFC. The former UFC fighter claimed a decision victory against Gemiyale Adkins at CFFC 25 on June 22 to earn the title shot. Before that, he submitted Jeremey Castro by Peruvian necktie at CFFC 23 on April 13. He is currently on a three-fight win streak.

CFFC 26 will take place on Aug. 17 at the Borgata Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City. A welterweight title fight between champion George Sullivan and challenger Jesus Martinez headlines the card.


 UPDATE: The fight between Brenneman & Rogers did not happen. After a successful weigh-in & face-off Rogers suffered from severe dehydration and had to make a trip to the E.R. The doctor would not allow the fight to continue, even after Rogers received fluids & his condition improved. Hopefully CFFC can reschedule this fight between these two fighters for their next event - this is a highly anticipated fight I have been looking forward to for a very long time.

For ticket info visit http://www.cffc.tv/

WCC VII Recap

WCC VI
July 27, 2013
Rodeway Inn & Conference Center
Allentown, Pennsylvania
7:00 PM
Referee: Keith Peterson

MMA came to the Lehigh Valley last weekend when World Cagefighting Championships invaded Allentown for WCC VII at the Rodeway Inn & Conference Center. Doug Yasinsky capitalized on the success of WCC VI that went down last month in Greensburg, Pa with another amazing event. There were 10 fights on the card, 5 professional and 5 amateur fights, with one of the ammy fights under the "advanced" amateur rules. It was an exciting event with barn-burning fights, culminating with the main event between Joe Fye & Billy Ward. There were several fights going the distance, and the ones that didn't ended spectacularly. With the turn-out & success of WCC VI and WCC VII the Pennsylvania MMA scene is eagerly anticipating the 8th installment of World Cagefighting Championships!

Fight Results

Professional Fights:

Main Event:

Joe Fye  defeated William Ward by TKO at 1:00 of Round 2    
William Baptiste defeated Matt Breiner by TKO at 3:28 of Round 1    
Erick Lozano defeated Christopher Pintado by TKO at 4:40 of Round 3    
Jordan Morales defeated Jacque Valentin by Guillotine at 3:21 of Round 2    
Dustin Wentz defeated Mark Krumrine by Unanimous Decision     

  
Amateur Fights:

Paul Almquist defeated Travis Funk by RNC at 2:21 of Round 2    
Christopher Winters defeated Matthew Cacho by Unanimous Decision       
Stephen Freed defeated Kellyezer Rivera by Unanimous Decision       
Ryan Kemmerer defeated Patrick McClure by RNC at 1:06 of Round 3   
Ryan Carroll defeated Antoine Werts by Unanimous Decision

Billy Ward Vs. Joe Fye

Mark Krumrine & Dustin Wentz

(Thanks to Doug Yasinsky of WCC for the fight results)

(Thanks to YouTube user DEATHTHROB for the "highlight" video)