THURSDAY, December 27th, 2000, AT 1:45 PM PT

Canada's Sawyer
Leaves Kickboxing For Boxing.

TUESDAY, December 12th, 2000, AT 3:30 AM PT

We Apologize:
Due To Our IKF Staff Schedules, The Following Articles Were Posted 1 Week Late...

"THUNDER On The Bay"
A MASSIVE STORM Of ACTION!

Hill Edges Riverra In Action Packed Women's MuayThai U. S. Title Bout!

In attendance as we mentioned previously was 5 Time World Kickboxing Champion Kathy Long. Many of us know Kathy as a World Kickboxing Champion and now movie star. Kathy began her studies in the martial arts with Aikido and has also studied in arts such as Shorin Ryu Karate & Kung Fu. She currently holds 4 different Black Belts in 4 different styles including a Masters Rank in Kung Fu San Soo. She's been known as the "Queen of Mean", "Princess of Pain" or "The Punisher" among other things as a well conditioned and hardened fighter. A two time Black Belt Hall of Fame Inductee (Woman of the Year 1991 & Full Contact Fighter of the Year 1992), she retired from kickboxing in the mid 1990s choosing to concentrate on her boxing and film career. Her work in the movie industry includes stunt work and fight choreography: She was Michelle Pfeiffer's stunt double in "Batman Returns" (1992) and fight choreographer for the "Death Becomes Her" (1992). She has appeared on several television shows, including "Walker, Texas Ranger" with Chuck Norris. She has written several monthly columns, titled "Long Shots" for Black Belt Magazine and has also appeared in movies such as Romy and Michele's High School Reunion (1997), Under the Gun (1995), The Stranger (1995) Natural Born Killers (1994), Knights (1993), Rage and Honor (1992)

However, Kathy Long has a long list of other accomplishments as well. She has appeared on numerous television shows and in publications ranging from People magazine to a full-color layout in the National Enquirer. She is also an accomplished musician who plays proficiently musical instruments such as the Harp, Violin and Guitar. She's written a book entitled "No! No! No!: A Woman's Guide to Personal Defense and Street Safety " (R) (Paperback / Berkley Publishing Group / October 1993) along with Kickboxing Fitness Videos such as, "Kickboxing for Fun & Fitness" (R) & "Championship Kickboxing with Kathy Long - "Round 1" (L) She's also a model and spokesperson for Century Martial Arts Equipment.

Yes, we may remember her as "The Punisher" in the fight ring, but she will always be remembered as Kathy Long to us here at the IKF. A Champion in as well as Out of the ring. Thank you for your time Kathy and we hope to see you at more IKF Events as well as IKF sponsored seminars in the future.

Also in attendance were 2000 IKF/RINGSIDE National Amateur Tournament Champions Derek Yuen of San Jose, CA and Juan Escobar of Watsonville, CA and IKF Pro MuayThai North American Champion Jong Sanan Fairtex of San Francisco, CA.

A SPECIAL Thank You to James Wong and the crew at FAIRTEX for supplying the events Fight Gloves as well. For more event info, contact Mr. Adam Rogers at the Body Worx Gym at (831) 899-9679 or by e-mail by clicking HERE! For more info click HERE!

MORE NEWS OF 12-12-00

Below Posted AT 6:30 PM PT

TUESDAY, December 12th, 2000, AT 6:30 AM PT

Hasley Claims
IKF North American Title By KO Over Crawford

FULL STORY To Be Posted Later This Week.

MORE NEWS OF 12-12-00

Ernesto Hoost
Wins 2000 K-1 Grand Prix

Alex MacDonald, IKF Japan: The K-1 organization spent the year 2000 doing what they do best: "Tournaments". In all, there were 13 including the Grand Prix itself which took place on Dec 10th. Whether or not the number 13 had anything to do with it, the K-1 had their share of bad luck: The death of K-1 Superstar, Andy Hug, Sam Greco became a pro wrestler, and within a week of the biggest tournament in the sport of kick boxing two of the favorites to win withdrew. Mike Bernado, winner of the Block C qualifying tournament, was injured in training and replaced by Ray Sefo. Jerome LeBanner, winner of the Block A qualifying tournament, came down with mononucleosis and was replaced by Stefan Leko. Sefo and Leko are, anywhere else in the world, main-event echelon fighters but here they were replacements. That should give you an idea of how good the other 6 fighters were.

OPENING ROUND

BOUT 1
Ernesto Hoost (Netherlands) Vs Mirko "Crocop" Filipovic (Croatia)
This was the third time these two have met in the Grand Prix, the others being 1996 and 1999 with Hoost winning both by KO. This time, though there was no KO, Hoost gave Crocop a lesson in kickboxing by clearly out scoring him in each round. Two of the judges however called it a draw. In the overtime round, Hoost again dominated and got the belated decision.

BOUT 2
Stefan Leko (Germany) Vs Francisco Filho (Brazil).
This was supposed to be the Filho-LeBanner rematch that had the press in a frenzy but Filho's revenge would have to wait. The first and second rounds were fairly even. Then Filho took control of what he thought would be the third and final round. To our shock, two judges called it a draw. Perhaps increasing the pace in the third round was too much for Filho because he seemed to have little energy in the overtime round which the judges again ruled a draw. The second overtime round was as indecisive as the first but the judges couldn't demand another extension. They gave an overworked Filho the decision.

BOUT 3
Peter Aerts (Netherlands) Vs Cyril Abidi (France).
They said it was a fluke when Abidi knocked out Aerts on July 7th. For the effort they gave him a place in the Block B tournament once more against Aerts who, to be frank, wasn't quite 100% going into the fight. There, Aerts threw a left hook to the body, collapsed to the canvas and was then carried out on a stretcher. An astonished Abidi was then one win away from going to the GP in Tokyo. He made it count by stopping Ray Sefo after two rounds.

Imagine his surprise when his randomly selected opponent was non other than Peter Aerts. In the first round, Aerts scored a knock down and Abidi got a warning for throwing. At the end of the round Aerts was angry not just because of the throwing but also because he was cut by a head butt. The next two rounds showed Aerts as the dominant boxer but Abidi's unpredictable style kept him in the fight. Near the end of the third round, Abidi connected with a second head butt that had Aerts both bleeding badly (Right) from a larger second cut and furious. With less than a minute left on the clock, the ringside doctor let the fight continue and Aerts got the decision.

BOUT 4
Musashi (Japan) Vs Ray Sefo (New Zealand).
Claiming that his sparring sessions with Matt Skelton (Newly crowned IKF world champion) prepared him for anyone, Musashi was set to meet Mike Bernado until news came of the injury and that Ray Sefo would fight. Early in the first round, Musashi threw a kick that seemed to pull a muscle. Perhaps he was a little cold going into this fight. If so, Sefo saw no reason to let him warm up and peppered the Japanese champion with hard combinations. Two knock downs in the first round sent the Black Panther (formally "Sugarfoot") Ray Sefo into the semi finals.

SEMI - FINALS

BOUT 1
Hoost Vs Filho
Filho did very little in the first two rounds and in the third needed a KO to win or at least a knock down to force an overtime round. He got neither. Hoost won by unanimous decision. The win sent him into the final for a record fourth time.

BOUT 2
Abidi Vs Sefo
As expected Peter Aerts was not cleared to fight due to the cuts (one was nothing less than a deep gash) on his forehead. In his place, Abidi- the one who gave him the cuts- met the Black Panther. Sefo went to work quickly and scored two knock downs to make it to the finals. For Cyril, the Cinderella story came to an end. The two fighters he had beaten to rocket to stardom brought him back to Earth. At age 24, however, he is far from washed up and may again one day make it to Tokyo Dome.

THURSDAY, November 30th, 2000, AT 7:25 PM PT

The STORM Is Coming...
THUNDER On The Bay 2000!

MORE NEWS OF 11-30-00

Posted AT 6:30 PM PT

Crawford & Hasley
Face off for IKF North American Title In Canada

Canada's Mike Miles Hosts MALICE AT THE PALACE - CHRISTMAS BASH II!

IKF Promoter Mike Miles of Calgary, Alberta, Canada is all ready to host the first IKF North American Championship between a Canadian National Tournament Champion and a USA National Tournament Champion this Sunday night, December 3rd in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. From Canada, Miles will put forward Keith Crawford of Calgary Alberta Canada. From the USA will come 2000 IKF/RINGSIDE National Amateur Tournament Champion Kurt Hasley of Chattanooga, Tennessee, USA

Hasley will enter the bout with a fight record of 5 wins and 1 loss with all 5 of his wins coming by KO/TKO. At 6'3, 236 lbs he will be just the match-up Miles is looking for to face Crawford for an exciting Main Event. At 6'3 and 235, Crawford and Hasley match-up like twins. The only edge on Sunday nights bout will be Crawford's experience as he holds a record of 12 wins and 1 loss with an unknown amount of wins by KO/TKO.

For more information on this event, contact Promoter Mike Miles at (403) 244-8424 or by e-mail by clicking HERE!

MORE NEWS OF 11-30-00

Posted AT 6:05 PM PT

LaBree To Defend
IKF World Title Against Randolph!

MORE NEWS OF 11-30-00

POSTED AT: AT 3:15 PM PT

RUMBLE IN THE JUNGLE
JUNGLE WARS III

Skelton Stops Ford To Win IKF Super Heavyweight MTR World Title! FULL STORY!

(Nigel Howlett -Phone: 07 90 158 75 76- & John Graham are the trainers of Matt Skelton based in Bedford England)

IKF FCR Super Welterweight British Title Defense
Greg Mead (England) Vs Thomas Flynn (England). This brilliant bout between the defending champion (Mead) and Flynn is worthy of the title, "Fight of the Year". Both fighters had hearts of lions and both were desperately after this title. When one fighter appeared to be on top, the other came back with equal standing and this was how the fight went throughout all 7 rounds.
Mead, the current champion didn't make his kicks in one round however Flynn missed his kicks in 2 rounds. Both fighters though were consistently coming forward with a variety of kicks and punches. The point deductions made the scores a bit odd but in the end, Flynn had the edge as he was crowned the new IKF British Champion by unanimous decision, 66-65 68-66, 68-66.

IKF FCR Heavyweight British Title
Gary Stevens Vs Mark Greener. Stevens was awarded the title by forfeit when his opponent, Mark Greener didn't show up for the bout.

UNDERCARD

1. FCR: Dave Hill (87kg, Towcester, England) defeated Simon Morris (86kg, Manchester, England) by 2nd round TKO.
   
   
2. FCR: Earrol Reeves (80kg, Banbury, England) defeated Dave Mudd (75kg, UFA, England) by unanimous decision.
   
   
3. FCR: David Ellis (73kg, North Hampton, England) fought Mark Armstrong (75kg, Newcastle, England) to a draw.
   
   
4. FCR: Ron Green (94kg, Coventry, England) defeated Dave Sharp (94kg, Northampton, England) by unanimous decision.
   
   
5. Women's FCR: Stephanie Oliphant (64kg, Newcastle, England) defeated Ceri Brian ( 66kg, Banbury, England) by 3rd round TKO.
   
   
6. FCR: Mohammid Atik (57kg, Northampton, England) defeated Chris Rodd (60kg, Newcastle, England) by unanimous decision.
   
   

Special Thanks to IKF Promoter Morris Young and all the IKF Officials which included all the back lockeroom workers, judges, referees, timekeeper, kick counters etc. that helped the show to run so smoothly. THE MAN, 5 Time World Thai Champion & Trainer Ronnie Green provided commentary for the TV. Following the event, Green was quoted as saying, "This is the first time in living memory that he has attended a show where there were no 'Mister Big'. Everyone had their job and worked as a TEAM to make the show work." Well done IKF Europe Team! You are all now truly "Walking The Walk In Europe!"

Special thanks to IKF European & SW Asia Director & the events IKF Representative, Alby Bimpson of England for this event article.

ISCF EUROPE...

ISCF MMA
Makes Debut In Europe!

On the undercard of the Skelton - Ford World title event, Promoter Morris Young introduced the ISCF MMA to Europe with 2 ISCF MMA Area/Regional Title bouts. "NHB style fighting is rather new to this area of the world." stated IKF European Director Alby Bimpson. The bouts were received with mixed reactions but regardless, those who know NHB style fighting were happy with the action.

BOUT 1: ISCF MMA Area Title
Jay Gilbey (76kg) defeated Shaun Mahaffey (73kg) by submission in round 1.

BOUT 2: ISCF MMA Area Title
Craig Wilson (84kg) defeated Michael Cole (87kg) by submission in round 1.

MONDAY, November 27th, 2000, AT 6:00 PM PT

Skelton Stops Ford
In Second To Win Vacant
IKF Super Heavyweight MTR World Title!

SUNDAY, November 26th, 2000, AT 12:00 PM PT

Skelton Vs Ford
For World Super Heavyweight MuayThai Title!

MONDAY, November 13th, 2000, AT 5:20 PM PT

KONGNAPA
IS BACK!
Promoter Lane Collyer & His Sukotai Promotional Team Is TOPS!

1. IR:
   Dopka (3-0, 148, Denver, Colorado, USA) defeated Brandon Booker (0-1, 155, Atlanta, Georgia, USA) by unanimous decision, 29-26, 30-26 & 30-27.
   
   
2. MTR
   Shane Simpson (1-0, 162, Danville, Kentucky, USA) defeated Jose Martinez (0-1, 155, Lilburn, Georgia, USA) by unanimous decision, 29-27, 30-26 & 29-27.
   
   
3. IR:
   Katie Meehan (2-1-1/1, Denver, Colorado, USA) defeated Amy McCormick (1-1/1, Atlanta, Georgia, USA) by unanimous decision 30-27, 30-27 & 30-27.
   
   
4. IR:
   Fight #4 was scheduled to feature IKF 2000 National Amateur Tournament Super Heavyweight Champion, Kurt Hasley (5-1/5, Eastridge, Tennessee, USA) against 1999 IKF National Amateur Tournament Super Heavyweight Champion Jack Nilsson (10-0/4, Augusta, Georgia, USA) however Nilsson was a no show. He had confirmed he would show earlier in the week but missed the weigh-ins and never showed at the event. Nilsson has wanted to turn pro and was even moved into the IKF Pro Full Contact Rules Rankings, however, he's never been offered a pro bout. Nilsson no longer trains with his original trainer Mike Carlson which explains his unprofessional actions now. We all know if Carlson was in his corner, he would have shown or at least had the professionalism to notify promoter Lane Collyer that he couldn't make it. This is very unlike the Nilsson we knew a year ago. Lets hope he clears things up with Mr. Collyer who paid a lot to bring his opponent in from Tennessee.
   
   
5. MTR
   William McCreary (1-0, 174, Atlanta, Georgia, USA) defeated Daniel Ancheta (0-1, 174, Nicholson, Georgia, USA) by unanimous decision, 29-27, 28-25 & 29-25.
   
   
6. IR:
   Steve Hall (1-1/0, 178, Atlanta, Georgia, USA) defeated Tom Carpenter (0-1, 182, Danville, Kentucky, USA) by split decision, 29-28, 28-29 and 30-26.
   
   
7. MTR
   Marshall Berger (1-0, 200, Lilburn, Georgia, USA) defeated Scott Baker (0-1, 200, Atlanta, Georgia, USA) by TKO at 1:56 of round 1st, stopped by IKF Referee Gary Brown.
   
   
8. IR:
   Curt Mickle (4-0/3, 136, Atlanta, Georgia, USA) defeated John Yeh (1-2/1, 140, Denver, Colorado, USA) by unanimous decision, 30-27, 30-27 & 30-27.
   
   
9. MTR
   John Grantham (1-0/0, 238, Nicholson, Georgia, USA) defeated John McKenzie (0-1, 215, Atlanta, Georgia, USA) by unanimous decision 30-27, 29-28 & 29-28.
   
   
10. MTR In a wild bout of FULL RULES, (Knees & Elbows (Padded) allowed to the head) Amateur MuayThai
    Kent Hensley (2-0, 197, Atlanta, Georgia, USA) defeated Clint Wiggins (0-3, Augusta, Georgia, USA) by unanimous decision, 29-26, 30-26 & 29-27.
    
    
11. MTR In the special Semi Main Event Feature Bout
    Gary Brown trained Phillop Botha (2-1/1, 169, Lawerenceville, Georgia, USA) defeated Sven Bean's, Jorge Hernandez (2-1/1, 162, Denver, Colorado, USA by unanimous decision, 29-28, 30-27 & 29-28.
    
    
12. MTR MAIN EVENT: IKF Pro MuayThai (Full Rules) Middleweight World Title
    Kongnapa (St Paul, Minnesota, USA) defeated Pedro Villalobos of Atlanta, Georgia, USA by KO at 1:54 of round 2.
    
    

The event wasn't short of superstars in the Ring Fighting sports either. The guest list read like a "Who's Who" in the Ring Fighting Sports and included;

• 2 Time IKF U.S. and 2000 IKF National Tournament Champion Trisha Hill.
• 3 Time World Champion Manu Ntoh.
• IKF & ISCF Representative & Promoter Mike Carlson & Elizabeth Carlson.
• World Champion Hall of Fame Trainer and official, Brooks Mason.
• Well known NHB Fighter & World Champion Trainer, Dr. Tim "Obake" Cataljo.
• Well known NHB (Trainer of Maro Sperry) & Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu trainer Hicardo Murgo.
• World Champion Hall of Fame Trainer and official, Gary Brown.
• Current IKF Pro MuayThai World Champion, Khunpon.

The IKF event judges were Brooks Mason, Sean Wohl, Kelly Leo, Elizabeth Carlson and Gary Brown. The IKF event referees were Gary Brown and Dennis Palmer. IKF Timekeeper was Andy Bardin. Ringside physician, Chris Wodall. For More Info Contact Mr. Lane Collyer at (770) 598-5965 or by e-mail by clicking HERE! Or go to the Sukotai Corp web page by clicking HERE! A special Thank You to FAIRTEX MUAYTHAI for providing the event Fight Gloves.

WEDNESDAY, November 8th, 2000, AT 10:00 PM PT

Sukotai Corp.
Ready For Atlanta, Georgia USA's
"MUAYTHAI UPRISING!"

Villalobos & Kongnapa
Meet for Vacant Pro MTR World Title In Main Event!

• 2nd Degree Black Belt - Kick Boxing (F.E.K.B.) under Mariano Anton the Spanish Kickboxing Association President.
• Instructor of Muay Thai (T.B.A., USA) under Ajarn Suruchai Sirisute.
• Black Belt Instructor (Wing Chun Association of USA) under Sifu Francis Fong.
• 5th Degree Gold Sash / Instructor (Wat Buddaiswan Sword Fighting Institute, Thailand) under Ma Khrub Mesaman.
• Instructor of Muay Thai (Wat Buddaiswan Institute, Thailand) under Ajarn Ma Khrub Mesaman.
• Instructor in Massage (The Wat Pho's, Thailand) in Foot Massage, Traditional Thai Massage, and Therapeutic Accupressure Massage.
• Blue Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (Gracie Association) under Royce Gracie.

Khru Villalobos spent 1999 in Thailand perfecting Muay Thai, Krabi Krabong, and studying Traditional Thai Massage. While in Thailand, he studied and trained at 45 different Thai Boxing Camps. He is also the Southeastern United States representative for the Wat Buddai Swan Temple of Thailand, which is the foremost authority on Krabi Krabong and the official trainer of the Thailand Royal Family and Thailand's military. Additionally, he has chalked up the following;

• 1998: ISKA United States Pro Middleweight Muay Thai Title.
• Champion of the 1998 Submission Open in Griffin, GA.
• Champion 1998 SFO light weight Champion.
• 1999 Battle of Koh Samui (THAILAND) champion.

He'll need every bit of it to stay in pace with Kongnapa. His record is far short of the experience of Shakuta but like Shakuta, Villalobos can make a name for himself win or lose. If he can make an impression like Shakuta did, he too will get the fight offers Shakuta has since fighting Kongnapa to such a close decision. In July, Shakuta won a 5 round decision over the WAKO Pro World Champion Keinth Nathan (Pele) to take his second World Title. At age 28, Villalobos hopes to put a question mark on the comeback of a legend in the sport, Kongnapa. When the two meet in the ring Friday night though, their past won't matter much. Future bragging rights will exist only on the "Here and Now!" For all that will matter come Game Time Friday Night will be....

"WHO WANTS THE WORLD TITLE MORE?"

The Atlanta event will feature an exciting undercard as well and will include the following bouts, in no particular order;

• Special MuayThai Feature Bout: Phillip Botha, Georgia, USA vs Jorge Hernandez, Colorado, USA
• Brandon Booker Vs Dodka
• Jose Ramirez Vs Shane Simpson
• Amy McCormick Vs Katie Meehan
• Steve Hall Vs Tom Carpenter
• William McCreary Vs Daniel Ancheta
• Curt Mickle Vs John Yeh
• Marshall Berger Vs Scott Baker
• John McKenzie Vs John Grantham
• Kurt Hasley Vs Jack Nilsson.

A special MuayThai Exhibition will be preformed by students of Eric Haycraft, McKenzie Kolbet & Charles Do both were scheduled to compete on the night but their opponents (Joseph Rybka & Aaron FIsher) dropped out of their bouts without reason.

The event will be held at the Flemings Doraville Arena in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. The box office will open at 5 PM and the event doors will open at 6:30 PM. The first bout is scheduled to start at 7:30 PM. Tickets are available at the door for $20. For event directions, click HERE! For More Info Contact Mr. Lane Collyer at (770) 598-5965 or by e-mail by clicking HERE! Or go to the Sukotai Corp web page by clicking HERE!

Fight Gloves for the event are provided by FAIRTEX MUAYTHAI!

SATURDAY, October 28th, 2000, AT 4:30 PM PT

K-1 UK Champ
Skelton To Face Unknown
Ford For World Title!

THURSDAY, October 26th, 2000, AT 9:50 PM PT

SEVERAL OF US Are Asking...
What Happened To The "SUPER" Heavyweights?

But is it fair to tell a full contact style fighter that he NEEDS to learn how to leg kick if he wants to make the big $$$? Is it fair to talk about a full contact fighter like Dennis Alexio (Left) and say he's terrible just because he doesn't do leg kicks? OF COURSE NOT! Why? Because again, the fact is, is that these are 2 VERY Different Sports! To put it into prospective, how many of you kickboxers have ever faced a "GOOD" San Shou Style fighter like Cung Le(Right)? Not many I'm sure. But if you did, how different your strategy would be if you knew that once you got inside, you could be grabbed and thrown or in Cung Le's case, "SLAMMED" to the floor! It would change A LOT! Be it throws , leg kicks, knees or elbows, whatever the change in rules, we all must admit that these things CHANGE THE GAME GREATLY when making the switch from one to the other. Especially after it happens once to you because there are many of you now that say "Oh I won't be slammed down..." Wait till it happens and than see what you have to say. Same for a full contact style fighter. How different would their strategy be if they had to worry about being kicked in the legs? Don't fault Alexio here. At least he tried to make the transition before realizing leg kicks were just not his thing. Look what happened to Alexio when he fought his leg kick bouts with Don Wilson (Left) or Stan Longinidis (Left with Rick Roufus) ? How far would his bout have went against Branko Cikatic(Right) if not stopped for a foul as it was? who knows. But it's a fact to be able to say that "Styles" of fighting have great differences in ring strategy. Some can switch from one to another and some can't. So since K-1 is all and only leg kick style fighting or modified MuayThai we should say, we've lost all the big name super Heavyweight as well as many Heavyweight World Title Contenders to the K-1 Circuit.

Many have signed exclusive contracts saying they will only fight for K-1 and if so, WHY should they be ranked in other organizations rankings such as the IKF? They will probably never fight for the IKF or any other organization as well, so why should we mislead the public who views our rankings and allow them to think otherwise? Why allow them to think that the #1 and #2 ranked fighters will ever fight for that IKF Heavyweight or Super Heavyweight World title or any other organization title for that matter? Shouldn't they be in a different ranking system on our page called something like K-1! Contracted Rankings? Yes, they should, and expect to see this soon on the IKF web pages. Of course, you can't blame these big guys. Three round fights compared to 5, 10 or even "12" rounds and the potential to receive 10 if not 30 times more purse money than any promoter can offer them around the world. They would be crazy NOT to turn this direction....

So with this being known, we go back to the question, Where have all the Super Heavyweights gone? Simple answer by all of you know we would hope... K-1! K-1 HAS BIG MONEY!!! They have big sponsors such as Sony, Coca Cola and many more that help with these big dollar purses, and to see 60,000 Plus people in the Tokyo Dome for a kickboxing event is AWESOME to say the least. WHERE in the world do you see those numbers? NO WHERE!

Since K-1, there have been several Full Contact rules fighters offered the big money to try to make the transition into leg kicks because of the big money offers. This is like trying to make Michael Jordon (Now retired) of the World Championship Chicago Bulls Basketball team into a linebacker for the Chicago Bears Football Team... They are "TWO VERY DIFFERENT SPORTS!" As discussed above, such a transition isn't as easy as one might think. K-1 Promoters under Mr. Ishi have brought in some FCR fighters which have resulted in very bad mismatches and made these great FCR fighters look like "TERRIBLE" fighters. The kickboxing press didn't go easy on them either, taking advantage of every leg kick that pounded away on fighters who never knew how to block them, but saw big $$$ instead.

One of the few who finally made a successful transition from FCR to leg kicks was Rick Roufus. It took him awhile, but in the end, he won his respect against not just a good leg kicker but one of the Best in the Business, as he won the IKF International Leg Kick Heavyweight World Title with a TKO over Stan "The Man" Longinidis of Australia. But did Roufus do it just to prove a point? No. He did it for the money... or should we say, the money he was SUPPOSE to get which was $91,000.00! Read more about this at these 2 articles;

IKF Mass Destruction and IKF Puts Foot DOWN HARD For Fighters AND Promoters

So how does a sanctioning body such as the IKF, ISKA, WKA etc. determine who can fight for a vacant Heavyweight or Super Heavyweight World title? Simple, whoever says yes to what can be offered at the given time. It's truly the only option we as sanctioning bodies have if all the others are sitting by their phone awaiting the call from their local K-1 Promoter. The IKF want's fighters who want to fight NOW. Sure we'd like to be able to offer them ALL 6 digit paydays, but we and our prompters can't. At least not yet. So we and our promoters offer them what we can, when we can to keep the ball rolling. The only thing worse to us than a vacant title is a World Champion thats never challenged and their a dime a dozen in EVERY Organization.

IKF Kickboxing.....
"The Game Has Changed!"

2nd Post Of Day

SATURDAY, October 21st, 2000, AT 9:30 PM PT

WIPSS
Jaw-Joint Protector
Endorsed By WBA

For More info on this news about WIPSS & The World Boxing Association...
Click Here!

More News of 10-21-00

1st Post Of Day
SATURDAY, October 21st, 2000, AT 11:00 AM PT

Monyelle & Team Thump
Ready For Tonight!

IKF Promoter Craig Monyelle and Team Thump are all set for tonights Amateur Kickboxing at the Indoor Sports Center in Loves Park, Illinois, USA. There are no Title Bouts on this event but plenty of Great Amateur Kickboxing Action. For more info, contact Mr. Craig Monyelle at (815) 483-8093.

THURSDAY, October 19th, 2000, AT 7:50 PM PT

PREPARATION Is What Makes A
WORLD CHAMPION!

CLICK HERE TO PREPARE!!

MONDAY, October 16th, 2000, AT 4:30 PM PT

AUTUMN ACTION ARISES AT
FALL BRAWL 2000

IKF Georgia, USA
A crowd of roughly 450 cheered for a night of kickboxing and mixed martial arts action at Fall Brawl 2000, which was held at Gym One, The Sports Arena, at Fort Gordon in Augusta, Georgia on Saturday, October 14, 2000. The mixed martial arts bouts were sanctioned by the International Sport Combat Federation (ISCF), which had sanctioned promoter Jamie Levine's WEF/New Blood Conflict pay-per-view fights in Augusta on August 26th of this year. The "American Rules" (above the waist kicks) kickboxing bouts were sanctioned by the International Kickboxing Federation (IKF) and the Professional Karate Commission (PKC). The night fights followed a PKC nationally rated daytime karate tournament, featuring forms, sparring, grappling, and shoot sparring divisions.

Although many of the familiar faces in the Southeastern fight scene were in the audience and not in the ring, the card gave a chance for "first timers" and "up-and-comers" to establish themselves. No one left the Fort disappointed, and in the crowd, among others, were Chief Judge of the Richmond County Georgia Civil and Magistrate Court, William Jennings, former WKA World Kickboxing Champion Jackie Eberhart, professional mixed martial arts fighter, George Allen, and World Ranked IKF Professional Kickboxer, Lane Collyer. Also present was UFC referee and judge, Tony Mullinax, who was the "third man in the ring" for the (ISCF) bouts.

The night began when the head instructor of Augusta Martial Arts Academy, (Mr, Mike Carlson) which promoted the event, delivered a brief but emotional remembrance of his friend and IKF and PKC kickboxer, Mark "The Hammer" Jenkins, who unexpectedly passed away in his sleep only two weeks before Saturday's bouts. "At 44 years old, Jenkins was still actively and successfully competing. He was an inspiration to fighters and fans, not just for that reason, but because he embodied the spirit and values that we all strive for in the martial arts," said Carlson. After a moment of silence and ringing of the bell ten times in his memory, Carlson told the crowd, "If Mark were still with us here in body, and not just in spirit, he would want us to enjoy these fights tonight and support all of the competitors, so let's go!"

The first bout of the night featured a kickboxing match between light middleweights, James Dyson, who is trained by Willie Walker of the Athens, Georgia Boxing Club, and Bobby McKee, of Garland Bray's Buford Martial Arts Academy, in Buford, Georgia. These two newcomers "swung from the heels", for three straight rounds, never seeming to lose energy. In the end, Dyson won the match, by a unanimous decision.

Augusta Martial Arts Academy's David Brinson battled Chris Moncrief, who trains under one of the "First Ladies" of the martial arts in the Deep South,Carol Ivie, of Carnesville, Georgia. Although Brinson scored early with a lead front kick and overhand right combination, Moncrief dropped Brinson in the closing seconds of round two. The warrior Brinson "beat the count" and returned to his corner. After getting a close look at his fighter, Carlson decided to tell referee Gerald Bush that Brinson had "had enough", and Moncrief won by TKO after two rounds in this middleweight match-up.

The first mixed martial arts event of the evening saw two light middleweights, Chris Elms, who trains at Ken Hudson's Family Karate in Augusta, against Joel Weldon of the Valdosta (Georgia) Martial Arts Center, trained by "Gentleman" James Corbett. Elms, who was also cornered by local veteran kickboxer/mixed martial arts fighter/submission grappler Bobby "The Scud" Wilson, aggressively attacked Weldon, slamming him and then quickly transitioning into an armbar to win the bout by submission in 34 seconds.

After a brief intermission, the 2000 IKF U.S. Tournament Kickboxing Champion, Augusta Martial Arts Academy's John Greubel stepped up in weight class to fight middleweight Phillip Botha, who trains at Eagle Jujitsu and Kickboxing with legendary trainer Gary Brown. Due to opponent cancellations, this was technically an exhibition, with both fighters getting a win. However, Greubel and Botha still wanted to fight, and agreed to "send this to the judges" anyway. These were two finely tuned athletes who showed the fans just what technical proficiency and determination are all about, even if the match didn't count. In the end, Greubel wound up winning the exhibition by split decision.

K.I.C.K. World Champion kickboxer, Kevin Hudson of Lyman, South Carolina, entered the ring, only this time to run the corner of his brother, middleweight Shannon Hudson, who saw action against Augustan Michael James, of Ken Hudson's camp. Due to injuries and illness, Shannon had seen no action since his split decision loss to "the Grand Old Man" of competitive kickboxing in the Southeast, Augusta's "Precious" Paul Pearman, who was serving as ring announcer for Saturday's bouts. The lay-off did not seem to adversely affect Hudson, who used his right leg out of a lefty stance like a jab to counter James' aggressive attack on his way to a KO win over the local fighter in 38 seconds of round two.

"White Collar Kickboxing" got a whole new name as middleweight and mortgage loan banker, Doug Towner of Charlotte, North Carolina battled Augusta Martial Arts Academy's Roy Anthony. These two showed a contrast of styles, as Towner countered Anthony's one dimensional attack with superior technique, at one point coming inches from landing a jump spinning back kick. At the final bell, Anthony, however, had won the match, by unanimous decision.

During the second intermission of the night, Mr. Carlson made two announcements. First was to introduce professional mixed-martial-arts fighter, Joe Merit, of Atlanta, to the audience. Merit, who had originally been slated to fight for the (ISCF) Southeastern United States Light Heavyweight title at the October 14th, event, was unable to do so, due to numerous opponent cancellations. Carlson told the crown that he would make a title shot available again to Merit at the upcoming "Winter Wars 2001", to be held in Augusta in late January or early February of next year. Merit thanked both Carlson and his wife Elizabeth, who coordinated both the day tournament and the night fights, for the opportunity to get a shot at an (ISCF) title and promised the fans that he would be ready to compete for the title in the next year.

Carlson also announced that Adrian Turpin of Starr, South Carolina, would win the IKF Southeastern Heavyweight Kickboxing title, as his opponent, Mike Ramsey, of High Point, North Carolina, failed to appear at the bouts, or provide notice that he would not appear. Chief Judge Jennings awarded the belt to Turpin, who shows what a true martial artist is made of by helping run day tournament rings at every event he attends, even when he is fighting at night-including Fall Brawl 2000. Turpin told fans that he was disappointed that he did not get to fight for the belt, but that he would show everyone that he deserved it when he steps into the ring at "Winter Wars."

Computer programmer Clint Wiggins of Augusta Martial Arts Academy saw action against Augusta's Houston Grant in a Heavyweight mixed martial arts fight. Grant was cornered by local kickboxer Sylvester "the Big Cat" James. Also in Wiggins corner was his stablemate and WEF veteran Mike Farrow. Wiggins scored early with a series of leg kicks, which forced Grant to take Wiggins to the ground.Wiggins remained calm, holding Grant in his guard, and fending off any submission attempts. Then, Wiggins successfully swept Grant, reversing position, and was able to mount Grant. From there, Wiggins began a "hailstorm" of blows to Grant who, in turn, gave Wiggins his back. Wiggins then scored a rear naked choke, which ended the bout in 4:47 of the first round. Mr. Carlson, who had been training Wiggins on his ground game at around 6:00 AM on weekdays, hurdled the top rope on his way into the ring to congratulate Wiggins on his win.

"When I fought in RINGS, I had the chance to meet Mr. Monte Cox, who gave me some great guidance and advice. Then, when Mr. Levine brought the WEF here this summer, I spent some very inspirational time with Pat Miletich and Jens Pulver. Those things, along with Mr. Carlson taking time from his assistant district attorney schedule to train with me in the mornings, helped get me this win," said Wiggins.

The final kickboxing match of the night, was a crowd pleasing, all out explosion, with both fighters scoring knockdowns and doing all they could to put the other away. Welterweight Brian Burke of Kevin Hudson's camp wound up winning by unanimous decision over Valdosta Georgia's Shawn Gay of James Corbett's Valdosta Martial Arts Center. Given the action of this battle, a rematch was being talked about before the final call was announced.

In the final match of the night, Ken Hudson's fighter and veteran of kickboxing, submission fighting, and mixed martial arts contests, Sam Smith faced "the Prodigy" Jared Pettitt, of Huntsville, Alabama, in a light heavyweight mixed martial arts bout. This was the highly anticipated debut of Pettitt, who was cornered and trained by his father, jujitsu expert Mark Pettitt. The younger Pettitt also had jujitsu and judo expert Greg Allbritten and kickboxer Paul "Mantis" Edmunds in his corner. In Smith's corner were Hudson, Bobby Wilson, and kickboxer and submission fighter, Steve Ledwith.

During the match both fighters seemed to want to keep things standing. Pettitt appeared content to execute finesse, "one step" strikes, while Smith threw and landed devastating leg kicks. Almost out of nowhere, while both fighters were standing, Pettitt landed two front kicks to the face of Smith. Those shocking kicks and the punches that followed caused Smith to take the fight to the ground. Primarily staying on his feet, Pettitt spun out of and around Smith's various guard and sweep attempts, and struck down at Smith from a standing position. Pettitt starting landing more and more of these strikes, which caused Smith to submit in 2:42 of the second round.

The overall bout results are as follows:

• IKF Middleweight Kickboxing
  James Dyson defeated Bobby McKee by unanimous decision.
  
  
• IKF Middleweight Kickboxing:
  Chris Moncrief defeated David Brinson by TKO at the end of round 2.
  
  
• ISCF MMA Light Middleweight
  Chris Elms defeated Joel Weldon by submission (armbar) in 34 seconds of round 2.
  
  
• IKF Kickboxing Exhibition:
  John Greubel defeated Phillip Botha by split decision.
  
  
• IKF Middleweight Kickboxing:
  Shannon Hudson defeated Michael James by KO at 38 seconds in round 2.
  
  
• IKF Light Middleweight Kickboxing:
  Roy Anthony defeated Doug Towner by unanimous decision.
  
  
• ISCF MMA Heavyweight
  Clint Wiggins defeated Houston Grant by submission (rear naked choke) 4 minutes and 47 seconds in round 1.
  
  
• IKF Welterweight Kickboxing:
  Brian Burke defeated Shawn Gay by unanimous decision.
  
  
• ISCF MMA Light Heavyweight
  Jared Pettitt defeated Sam Smith by submission (tap out from strikes) 2 minutes and 42 seconds in round 2.
  
  

For more information, please call Augusta Martial Arts Academy at (706) 855-5269.

SATURDAY, October 14th, 2000, AT 11:00 AM PT

The K-1 Articles of 10-12-00 Below
Have been revised with the Additional Fighters Added.

More News of 10-14-00

O' Connell Set For
Iowa KICKFEST II

IKF Promoter Russ O' Connell and associate Blaine Nichols are all set for tonights Iowa Kickfest II to be held at the Five Sullivan Brothers venue in Waterloo, Iowa, USA. The event will feature 2 IKF Iowa State Title bouts. They include James McCallan vs Jeremy Shuey fighting for the vacant IKF Amateur Iowa State FCR Welterweight Title and Steve Miller vs Hamza Omar fighting for the vacant IKF Amateur Iowa State FCR Cruiserweight Title.

For more information, contact Mr. Russ OConnell at (319) 234-1935 or Mr. Blaine Nichols by e-mail by clicking HERE.

THURSDAY, October 12th, 2000, AT 6:00 PM PT

IKF KICKBOXING & ISCF MMA
Return To Fort Gordon Georgia This Weekend

IKF Georgia

IKF & ISCF Promoters Mike & Elizabeth Carlson are all set for a lot of action this weekend in Augusta Georgia, USA. On Saturday, October 14, kickboxing and No Holds Barred matches return to Gym 1 at Fort Gordon in the Fall Brawl 2000. The kickboxing bouts will be sanctioned by the International Kickboxing Federation (IKF)and the Professional Karate Commission (PKC) The No Holds Barred/Mixed Martial Arts bouts will be sanctioned by the International Sport Combat Federation (ISCF). Preceding the evening event will be a PKC sanctioned daytime karate tournament open to all martial artists. Divisions will include kata, sparring, grappling, and submission sparring.

The Fall Brawl 2000 will feature eight fighters from the CSRA. There are seven kickboxing matches and four No Holds Barred/Mixed Martial Arts bouts scheduled. One of the kickboxing matches will feature Mike Ramsey of High Point, North Carolina against Adrian Turpin of Starr, South Carolina in a battle for the IKF Southeastern Regional Heavyweight Title.

The daytime tournament begins at 10:00am and spectators are welcome. Registration for the daytime tournament begins at 8:00am. The doors open at 6:00pm for the evening event with the action beginning at 7:00pm. Tickets are available at Augusta Martial Arts Academy and at the door the night of the event. Tickets are $8.00 for adults ($6.00 with a military ID) and $3.00 for children under 12. Children under 4 are free.

For more information, please call Augusta Martial Arts Academy at (706) 855-5269.

More News of 10-12-00

LOCAL
"COMPUTER GEEK"
TO SEE ACTION IN NO HOLDS BARRED FIGHT
IKF Georgia
By day, he works in the Information Technology Department of Augusta-Richmond County, servicing and programming computers. By night, he transforms into the "Wild Man."

That's the story on Clint "Wild Man" Wiggins, who will see action Saturday night, October 14, 2000, at Fort Gordon's Gym 1, in a "no-holds-barred" match. "I don't want to sound too metaphysical," says the 6'2", 209 pound Wiggins, "but I suppose this says something about the duality of man."

Whether it was spelled dual or duel, Wiggins has enjoyed his brief foray into the world of combat sports. In June of this year, he won the Toughman Contest's heavyweight tournament at the Augusta-Richmond County Civic Center. His bout Saturday night, however, will be far more intense. "A mixed martial arts match, allows you to punch, kick, knee, elbow, execute takedowns, and apply joint locks and chokes. Boxing is fine, but boxing is NOT fighting. This is like fighting," says Wiggins.

No holds barred or mixed martial arts matches were made popular in the 1990's by the Ultimate Fighting Championship. In August of this year, the Civic center hosted a major pay-per-view event of this type. Saturday's evening bouts will be at Gym 1, The Sports Arena, at Fort Gordon. The doors open at 6:00 PM with the action beginning at 7:00 PM. There will be both kickboxing and mixed martial arts bouts scheduled. This will follow a daytime karate tournament that is open to all martial artists of all skill levels.

"Preparing for a fight like this is a lot like computer programming," claims Wiggins, who graduated from Georgia Southwestern with a degree in computer science. "You try to anticipate problems and prepare for them, but you never really know what is going to happen until you actually get started and see how it goes." "The one thing I do know for sure," says Wiggins, "is that I will leave my pencil-pocket protector at home."

For more information, please call Augusta Martial Arts Academy at (706) 855-5269.

More News of 10-12-00

Russia Vs Australia
Event In Question...(?)
Australia Team Left Waiting By Russian Promoter!

More News of 10-12-00

Bernado Wins
K-1 Block C Tournament With Leg Kicks!!!
Alex MacDonald, IKF Japan
We apologize for the late posting of this article that was first received on 10/8/00.

Opening Round:

Mike Bernado vs Jurgen Krut. This match had promise on paper: Krut beat Bajirami who beat Filipovic who beat Bernado. Fights however take place in the ring not on paper. Bernado threw one of those right hooks that go straight to an opponents nervous system. Bernado KO-1R

Stefan Leko vs Andrew Tompson. Tompson suffered a cut above the left eye but it was the leg kicks that brought this giant TKD fighter from Africa down twice in the second round to end the fight. Leko TKO-2R

Tomas Kucharzewski vs Hiromi Amada. Amada, the finalist in the K-1 Japan that sent champion Musashi to the K-1 Grand Prix in December, found Kucharzewski's chin in the first round to score 2 knock downs. Kucharzewski a finalist in the K-1 USA replaced champion Andrei Dudko who injured an Achilles tendon in training. TKO-1R.

Glaube Feitosa vs Mirko Filipovic. Feitosa started with the same mistakes that got him knocked out by Kucharzewski in August, getting hit THEN putting up his hands. He then played a defensive game and was cautioned for holding (What's wrong with a little holding in modified Muay Thai?). In the second round his low kicks had Filipovic a little cautious but not enough to win the round. The third round saw Mirko come on strong with body shots and collect the points. Filipovic U-DEC-3R.

Semi Finals

Mike Bernado vs Andrew Tompson Nope. That's not a misprint. Stefan Leko broke a bone in his right hand and couldn't continue so the opponent he routed in two rounds took his place. I mentioned that Tompson was from Africa but I should also mention that he and Mike Bernado happen to be gym mates. So Tompson, barely able to stand and sporting a band-aid over one eye, stepped in the ring to meet his sparring partner. His cornermen were even wearing Bernado T-shirts. In no time the bandaid was gone and Tompson was down from a Bernado leg kick. Does that give anyone else the giggles? The doctor promptly stopped the fight that should never have happened. Bernado TKO-1R

Mirko Filipovic vs Hiromi Amada. This was supposed to be Amada's revenge match for a loss to Mirko earlier this year. Filipovic, though, adopted a different strategy, low kicks. This threw Amada (a former amateur boxer with over 100 fights) off his punching game. In the second round, Filipovic came upstairs and scored a knockdown which with only 3 rounds gave him a lead in the points that Amada couldn't make up. Filipovic U-DEC-3R.

FINAL

Mike Bernado vs Mirko Filipovic. Filipovic limped to the ring. His right ankle was causing him extreme pain. Perhaps a Feitosa low kick had found its mark or one of his own low kicks on Amada had hit a knee. He knew he was in no shape to fight Bernado but to withdraw from the match would send Amada to the Grand Prix in Tokyo. Bernado threw a low kick and Mirko's natural reaction was to lift his leg in defense. The pain sent him to the canvas. His corner threw in the towel. Bernado TKO-1R.

Comment This event was called a tribute to Andy Hug who died suddenly in August. Bernado cancelled a WBF world title defense to take Andy's place. Despite the fact that his victories came easier than they should have, Mike did look sharp. He even threw a heel drop kick in Andy's honor. A few of the other fighters did the same in their matches too.

Now seven of the eight spots in the Grand Prix have been decided by competition and the final spot has has gone to a fighter selected by Mr Ishii, Peter Aerts. Here then is the line-up for the opening round of the tounament.

1. Ernesto Hoost (Block A) vs Mirko Filipovic (Block C)
2. Francisco Filho (Block B) vs Jerome LeBanner (Block A)
3. Cyril Abidi (Block B) vs Peter Aerts (Selected)
4. Mike Bernado (Block C) vs Musashi (K-1 Japan)

Making Sense of the K-1

The K-1 Grand Prix (GP) started in '93 and '94 with an eight man tournaments. From '95 to '98 it became a 16 man tournament fought on two separate days. On the first day of the tournament, in Osaka, the fighters fought only once and the fights were scheduled for 5 rounds. On the second day, in Tokyo, they fought as many as 3 times and the fights were three rounds each. In '99 they introduced qualifying tournaments for new fighters to get the last available spots in Osaka. Now the K-1 has a better, though much more complicated, system and I'll try to explain it here.

1. As always the 8 man tournament at Tokyo Dome will decide who will be the 2000 champion.
2. Six of the fighters to enter the tournament will come from 3 other eight man tournaments (Block A, B & C). In other words, 24 fighters will enter 3 eight man tournaments and the finalists (6 of them) will take 6 spots in the Grand Prix. This means that the one day in Osaka with 5-round matches has been dropped and replaced with three 8-man tournaments. As of now, the winners and finalists of these tournament have been decided.
   • Block A: LeBanner and Hoost.
   • Block B: Filho and Abidi.
   • Block C: Bernado and Filipovic.
3. The seventh spot will go to the winner of the K-1 Japan, Musashi, which featured the 16 best Asian fighters.
4. The eighth and final spot will go to the fighter chosen by Kazuyoshi Ishii. This is probably to give a skilled fighter a second chance if there is an upset. Peter Aerts, 3 time GP champion, has been selected.

So, Who are the 24 fighters who entered the 3 big tournaments? First, we have the eight best from the previous years tournament minus Musashi who is Asian and therefore was in the K-1 Japan. That gives us 7 fighters:

1. Ernesto Hoost
2. Mirko Filipovic
3. Jerome LeBanner
4. Sam Greco (replaced by Ricky Nicholson)
5. Ray Sefo
6. Peter Aerts
7. Andy Hug (Pictured Right, whose absence will be felt).

The next nine entries come from 2 groups. Six fighters with exceptional skills have been selected to enter:

1. Francisco Filho
2. Lloyd Van Dams
3. Nicolas Pettas
4. Stefan Leko
5. Cyril Abidi
6. Glaube Feitosa.
7. And 3 Japanese fighters from the K-1 Japan have been selected:
   • Tomihira (Block A)
   • Nakasako (Block B)
   • Amada (Block C).

Finally, there are eight tournaments around the world and the winners take the last 8 spots in the tournaments:

1. Matt Skelton, K-1 UK
2. Paris Vasilikos, K-1 Italy
3. Mark Hunt, K-1 Oceania
4. Frank Otto, K-1 Germany
5. Andrei Dudko, K-1 USA
6. Alexey Ignashov, K-1 Belarus
7. Jurgen Krut,, K-1 Croatia
8. Andrew Thompson, K-1 South Africa.

The road to the Dome is long to say the least. Andrei Dudko who won the K-1 USA tournament, for instance, will now have to win the Block C tournament to make it to Tokyo and then defeat 3 of the world's elite fighters to capture the Grand Prix 2000 title... and a $500,000 Payday.

SATURDAY, October 7th, 2000, AT 11:00 AM PT

IKF USA Weekend Action...

IKF
St. Louis, Missouri, USA...

IKF Promoter Jesse Finney is all set to host tonights MIDWEST FIGHT FEST at the Union Plaza at 300 S. Grand in St. Louis, Missouri, USA. No title bouts are scheduled for the event and for any other event information please contact Mr. Jesse Finney at (314) 351-5226 or Mr. Robert Donaker by e-mail by clicking: HERE

IKF
Bakersfield, California, USA...

IKF Promoter Abe Belardo has organized an IKF Title Bout on the undercard of a Boxing Event being held at the Centennial Gardens in Bakersfield, CA, USA tonight, October 7th. The bout will be a defense of Manual Quezada's (230, 6'1", 8 wins, 3 loses with 4 wins by KO or TKO)IKF Amateur California International Rules Super Heavyweight Title. Quezada of Bakersfield, CA, last fought on December 11th, 1999, when he stopped Sam Malioo of Long Beach, California, USA at 1:44 of the second round in Bakersfield.

Quezada will defend his title against Sean Tuttle, (220, 6', 6 wins, 2 loses with 4 wins by KO or TKO, ranked #5) also of Bakersfield, CA. Tuttle himself hasn't fought in quite awhile either. According the the California Commission, approximately 6 years, but wanted the bout against Quezada so Belardo confirmed it.

There was some concern that the bout would be an uncompetative fight from Tuttle's old trainer, Eric Nolan of Bakersfield stating "The bout presents a very real risk of danger for Mr. Tuttle. I am very afraid he will be hurt!" The IKF followed up on the concern with the California State Athletic Commission who had Tuttle checked out and found he seemed to be in good condition for the fight, despite his long layoff from the ring. For more info on the bout and the event, please contact Mr. Abe Belardo at (661) 834-5871.

MONDAY, September 26th, 2000, AT 11:00 AM PT

Adams, Ward, Canup, Staples, Wozniak
All Win At ISCF
GAUNTLET TRIALS II!

See ISCF News Page by clicking ISCF NEWS:

FRIDAY, September 22nd, 2000, AT 6:00 PM PT

Waller
Ready For
GAUNTLET TRIALS II

ISCF MMA Promoter, Matthew Waller is all set to host tomorrow nights GAUNTLET TRIALS II at the Jackson National Guard Armory in Jackson Georgia, USA. The event will feature several top ISCF MMA Matches as well as IKF Kickboxing. For more info, contact Mr Matthew Waller at (912) 475-1092, or by e-mail by clicking HERE

MONDAY, September 12th, 2000, AT 11:50 PM PT

The Best of The Best

By KUHN FRED FITZGERALD (Pictured Below Right)

It was a competition for Championships, and a Championship competition, named the IKF/Ringside USA National Amateur Kickboxing Championships. It was held at the magnificent Harvey's Casino Hotel, located in Council Bluffs, Iowa, outside of Omaha Nebraska. This event was the brainstorm of Steve Fossum, Dan Stell, Joe Taylor, and Mick Doyle, who was contacted to host the event. Make no mistake about it, these people had the dream, and then made the dream come true. There were many others who devoted there time, and expertise, just to name a few, Jeff Mullen, Vicki Monyelle, Rob Zbilski, Duke Roufus, Mike Carlson, Kevin Neuman, there are so many others, we thank all of you. Without devoted people like this these highly trained athletes would not have an opportunity to test their skills.

Is this how the Olympics started in 1896, with just an idea and a group of people dedicated to the Martial Arts, willing to pay the price for success? I am sure there are many fighters who stayed away thinking this was just another bogus event that would never happen, well it did happen, and the best fighters in the United States competed on September 2, and 3rd 2000 for the honor of being called the Champion of the USA in their weight class.

If you feel you or your fighter would have won, well get ready now for next year, which will be bigger yet, contact the IKF, find out what is needed for you to enter, we welcome every one, this event is here to stay, if you are a serious MuayThai fighter, or Kickboxer you will want to be part of this historic competition. I will mention some fighters that I might have had personal contact with, either because I refereed them or we were both in the right place at the right time, don't be offended it I fail to mention your name.

Every competitor has a compelling story, Sgt. Ricardo Sanders and the Marine Kickboxing Team, driving half way across the United States to compete, the magnificent Sunshine Fettkether, with her thunderous leg kicks, trained by Bob Karmel. She is destined for greatness. Trisha Hill, who leveled her opponent with the most spectacular technique of the competition. Duke Roufus with his meticulously prepared MuayThai fighters. How about 14 year old Boomer Fischer, who in her other life is probably your average teenage girl, with make up, girl friends and Britney Spears, but today she is sitting having her hands wrapped, by her fine trainer Benny Voyles, preparing for combat, her hard body evidence of hundreds of hours training in the gym, with a focus that says, I will not be denied, she did win the Championship.

How many other fighters would achieve greatness, did the spirit of the Indian Warriors that lived here decades ago influence their performance, or did they just fight better than they ever did before, or are they just that good, I don't know, but what I do know is I have never seen more determination, more heart, than I did in these two days. As an Official I am pleased to tell you, with over 70 fights, over 150 rounds of hard hitting, not one injury. Why? Because the rules were clear and understood, first class equipment, and the best Officials in the USA, who are committed to the safety of the fighter.

The great Officials who live and breath this sport are: Dan Stell the head of IKF Officials, simply the best Kickboxing Referee, Terry Storm, the best woman Referee in the USA, Mike Storm who controls the ring with sheer power, Carlton Duncan who has achieved the confidence he has been looking for, Scott Weeks, who has the competence to do what ever he puts his mind to. I have left out many of the fine Judges, there is Colleen, Tony, and I know there are more, please send your names to me.

A special thanks to the physician at ringside the celebrated neurologist Dr. Reyes. As I said, I have left out many important names, of fighters and trainers, please fax or E-Mail me (ffitzgerald@monmouth.com) with your personal story, it will be very important to me, my fax number is (732) 918.3333. See you next year.

THURSDAY, September 7th, 2000, AT 1:15 AM PT

UPDATED AT: 3:45 PM On Thursday, September 7th, 2000.

Who Are The
BEST
Amateur Kickboxers In The
USA?
They Were ALL Present To
"Walked The Walk"
At This Years
IKF/RINGSIDE National Amateur Kickboxing Championships!

NOTE: Bouts are listed by weight-classes, NOT by order they were fought.
Also, all records include wins and loses of this weekends event.

• FCR: JUNIOR FEATHERWEIGHT: 60.1-65 LBS.
  1. Chad Monyelle,10, 4'4", 61, Beloit, WI, 1-0/0, Trainer Craig Monyelle won the National Tournament Title by unanimous decision, 28-26, 29-26 & 28-27 over;
  2. Jimmy Ryder, 9, 4'1", 65, Omaha, NB, 0-1/0, Trainer Mick Doyle.
     
     
• MTR: JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHT: 70.1-75 LBS.
  Belt Presented By: Fred Fitzgerald: IKF MuayThai Referee
  1. Justin Lawrence, 10, --, 74, Pacific, MO, 9-0/0, Trainer Benny Voyles won the National Tournament Title by unanimous decision, 30-24, 30-24, 30-24 over;
  2. Nathan Hicks, 12, 4'6", 71, Dubuque, IA, 1-1/0, Trainer Dean Lessei who had advanced to the Championship round by a split decision victory, 29-28, 28-29, 30-27 over;
  3. Bryce Ryder, MTR, 10, 4'2", 75, Omaha, NB, 0-1/0, Trainer Mick Doyle.
     
     
• MTR: BANTAMWEIGHT: 120.1-125 LBS.
  Belt Presented By: Joe Taylor: Tournament Co-Founder & Ringside Inc. Representative.
  1. Matt Bentley, 15, 5'4", 126, Omaha, NB, 3-0, Trainer Mick Doyle won the National Tournament Title by unanimous decision, 30-27, 30-27, 30-27 over;
  2. David Flurry, 13, 5'2", 123, Dubuque IA, 0-1/0, Trainer Dean Lessei.
     
     
• FCR:FEATHERWEIGHT: 125.1-130 LBS.
  Belt Presented By: Brooks Mason: Champion Trainer.
  1. Kasper Harrison, 15, 5', 130, Detroit, Michigan, 5-0/1, Trainer Elliot Cooper won the National tournament title by unanimous decision, 29-27, 30-26, 30-26 over;
  2. Shane Shappley, 15, 5'7", 126, Memphis, TN, 1-1/0, Trainer Jimmy Blann who advanced to the Championship Round by a TKO victory at the end of round 1 over;
  3. Tysen Johnson, 14, 5'6", 126, Omaha, NB, 0-1, Trainer Mick Doyle.
  4. Jeremy Longwel,13, 5'7", 126, Omaha, NB, 0-1, Trainer Mick Doyle was defeated by Kasper Harrison in the preliminary round by TKO at the break of the 2nd and 3rd round.
     
     
• IR: LIGHTWEIGHT: 130.1-135 LBS.
  Belt Presented By: Vicki Monyelle: 2000 IKF/RINGSIDE Nationals Tournament Staff.
  1. Boomer Fischer, 15, 5'2", 135, Pacific, MO, 6-1/0, Trainer Benny Voyles won the National tournament title by unanimous decision, 30-26, 30-26, 30-26 over;
  2. Niki Burton, *16, 5'3", 126, Dubuque, IA, 4-1/0, Trainer Dean Lessei (* Was 15 At Regional) who advanced to the Championship round by a unanimous decision, 30-27, 30-27, 30-27 victory over;
  3. Bette Mullins, 14, 5'3", 134, Collierville, TN, 0-1/0, Trainer Jonathan Border.
  4. Jackie Ryder, 14, 5'3", 132 Omaha, NB, 0-1/0. Trainer Mick Doyle lost in the opening preliminary round to Champion Boomer Fischer, by unanimous decision 30-26, 30-26, 30-26.
     
     

• MTR: FLYWEIGHT: 112.2 LBS. & Below
  Belt Presented By: Kongnapa: Pro World MuayThai Champion
  1. Rhea Fontanilla, MTR, 19, 4'11", 101, Adelanto, CA, 2-1/0, Trainer Jim VanOver won the National Tournament Title by unanimous decision, 30-27, 30-27, 30-27 over;
  2. Ashley Healey, MTR, 16, 5'2", 104, Dubuque, IA, 0-1/0, Trainer: Dean Lessei.
     
     
• FCR: FLYWEIGHT: 120 LBS & BELOW
  Belt Presented By: Dr Reyes: Nationals Ringside Phisician.
  1. Suzanne Anderson, 31, 5'1", 120, Bloomington, MN, 5-0/0, Trainer C. B. Bunkholt won the National Tournament title by unanimous decision over;
  2. Blanca Gutierrez, 34, 5', 115, Pacifica, CA, 5-2-5/0, Trainer Danovis Dee Pooler who advanced to the championship round with a unanimous decision victory over;
  3. Brenda Harrison, 26, 5'6", 110, Atlanta GA, 6-3/0, Trainer Eddie Monger.
  4. Rene' Brodacz, 32, 5'1", 117, Lake Zurich, IL, 4-1/0, Trainer Team Z was defeated in round 2 by champion Suzanne Anderson after a unanimous decision, 30-27, 30-27, 30-27, victory in round 1 over;
  5. Khristine Miller, FCR, 25, 5'2", 117, St Louis, MO, 1-1/0, Trainer Jesse Finney.
     
     
• FCR: LIGHTWEIGHT: 128.1 LBS. - 132 LBS
  Belt Presented By: Scott Mincey: Pro World Kickboxing Champion.
  1. Trisha Hill, 24, 5'3", 127, Lawerenceville, GA, USA, 10-0/3, Trainer Gary Brown won the National Tournament Title in impressive fashion with a spinning crescent kick KO at 1:09 of the 3rd round in what was "The Women's Bout of the Tournament over;
  2. Katie Ehrhardt, 21, 5'9", 128, Lake Zurich, IL, 7-2/1, Trainer Team Z who had advanced to the championship round with a unanimous decision, 30-26, 30-26, 28-29, victory over;
  3. Paula Duncan, 39, 5'3", 130, Simpsonville, SC, 3-0/1, Trainer Ray Thompson.
  4. Susan Shea, 26, 5'7", 130, Minneapolis, MN, 3-1/0, Trainer CB Bunkholt lost in the opening preliminary round to Champion Trisha Hill by unanimous decision, 30-27, 30-27, 30-27.
     • Triche Rasmussen, 29, 5'4", 129, Seaside, CA, 0-0-1/0, Trainer Adam Rogers was unable to attend due to personal reasons.
       
       
• MTR: LIGHT WELTERWEIGHT: 132 + LBS. - 139.7 LBS. NO CHAMPION
  • Sarah Baker, 20. 5'9", 137, Brooklyn Center, MN, 5-2/1, Trainer Greg Nelson, opponent, Megan Lewis, 25, 5'8", 135, Rockfalls, IL, 0-0/0, Trainer Mike Mattox dropped out of the tournament the week of the event so Baker did not attend.
    
    
• FCR: WELTERWEIGHT: 142.1 LBS. - 147 LBS.
  Belt Presented By: Tim Mazurkiewicz: 1999 IKF/RINGSIDE National Tournament Champion.
  1. Rebecca Preacher, 36, 5'8", 148, Simpsonville, SC, 11-1/1, Trainer Ray Thompson won the National Tournament Title with a split decision, 29-28, 28-29, 30-27, victory in one of the closest bouts of the tournament over;
  2. Jennifer Thyssen, 27, 5'5", 143, DePree WI, 11-2-1/4, Trainer Derek Kaio who advanced to the Championship round with a unanimous decision, 30-25, 30-24, 30-24, victory over;
  3. Jennifer Repa, 19, 5'8", 145, St Louis MO, 4-1/0, Trainer Jesse Finney who advanced to round 2 after her opening round victory over Amy Petrich below.
  4. Summer Miller, 23, 5'11", 145, Augusta, GA, 3-1/1, Trainer Mike Carlson was defeated in her first preliminary bout by Champion Rebecca Preacher.
  5. Amy Petrich, 27, 5'5", 146, Lake Zurich, IL, 0-1/0, Trainer Team Z was defeated by TKO at the end of round 2 by Jennifer Repa in the opening round.
     
     
• MTR: WELTERWEIGHT: 139.7 + LBS. - 147.4 LBS.
  Belt Presented By: Joe Taylor: Tournament Co-Founder & Ringside Inc. Representative.
  1. Sunshine Fettkether, 24, 5'8", 145, Mesa, AZ, 5-2-1/2, Trainer Bob Karmel won the National tournament title with a TKO victory at :49 seconds of round 1 over;
  2. Julie Jackle, 19, 5'9", 141, Milwaukee, WI, 3-4/0, MGR: John Jackle.
     
     
• FCR: LIGHT MIDDLEWEIGHT: 153.1 LBS. - 159 LBS.
  Belt Presented By: C. B. Bunkholt: Pro World Kickboxing Champion
  1. Amy Barabasz, 27, 5'6", 159, Detroit, MI, 4-1/0, Trainer Scott Mincey came from the lowest seed in the division to win the National Tournament Title by unanimous decision, 30-27, 30-27, 30-27, over;
  2. Lannie Gault, 29, 5'5", 159, St Louis MO, 3-3/2, Trainer Jesse Finney who was the number 1 seed.
  3. Season Miller, 20, 5'5", 159, Rockfalls, IL, 0-4/0, Trainer Mike Mattox lost to Champion Amy Barabasz by TKO at 1:36 of round 1.
     
     
• MTR: LIGHT MIDDLEWEIGHT: 147.4 + LBS - 156.2 LBS.
  Belt Presented By: Brooks Mason: Champion Trainer.
  1. Lisa Stecki, 18, 5'10", 156, Milwaukee, WI, 6-0/0, Trainer Duke Roufus won the National Tournament Title by unanimous decision, 30-26, 30-26, 30-26, over;
  2. Tammy Roza, 21, 5'3", 152, Omaha, NB, 2-3/0, Trainer Mick Doyle.
     
     

• FCR: FLYWEIGHT: 120.1 LBS. AND BELOW
  Belt Presented By: Elliot Cooper: IKF Trainer.
  1. Joe Taylor, 20, 5'7", 115, Lake in the Hills, IL, 2-3/1. Trainer: Rob Zbilski won the National Tournament Title by majority decision, 29-26, 28-28, 29-26, over;
  2. Eric Andrews, 18, 5'8", 117, Clement City, IL, 3-1/1.
     
     
• FCR: FEATHERWEIGHT: 124.1 LBS. - 128 LBS.
  Belt Presented By: Craig Monyelle: Pro U. S. Full Contact Champion.
  1. Justin Pickett, 17, 5'4", 128, Augusta, GA, 3-0/0, Trainer, Mike Carlson won the National Tournament Title by TKO at :59 seconds of round 1 over;
  2. Billy Byrd, 23, 5'10", 125, Aurora, IL, 11-3-2/2, Trainer: Rocky Troutman who was the #1 seed.
  3. Joseph Balkis, 30, 5'5", 128, Calumet City, IL, 5-5/2, Trainer: Glen Hudson lost to Champion Justin Pickett by unanimous decision, 29-28, 29-28, 29-28,n the opening round.
     • Derrick Jones, 19, 5'6", 126, Clarksdale, TN, 6-0/1, Trainer Leroy Curtis was a NO SHOW with no phone call to cancel or any notice...
       
       
• MTR: FEATHERWEIGHT: 120.1 + LBS. - 125.4 LBS.
  Belt Presented By: Fred Fitzgerald: IKF MuayThai Referee.
  • Josh Tarman, 24, 5'2", 125, Milwaukee, WI, 4-2/2, Trainer Duke Roufus, won the National Tournament Title by walkover after his opponent, Darin Zabriskie, 24, 5'6", 125, Brooklyn Center, MN, 2-1/0, Trainer Greg Nelson, came down sick on the second day of the Tournament. Zabriskie, had defeated Jerry Anthis, MTR, 20, 5'4", 125, Omaha, NB, 1-0/0, Trainer Mick Doyle, by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27) in the opening round the day before. After word of Zabriskie, being sick, Anthis was offered the bout but was injured from the previous days bout.
    
    
• IR: SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT: 132.1 LBS. TO 137 LBS.
  Belt Presented By: Mike Carlson: IKF Representative & ISCF Director
  1. Casey Garza, 25, 5'7", 137, Milwaukee, WI, 1-0/0, Trainer Duke Roufus won the National Tournament Title by unanimous decision, 29-28, 29-28, 29-28, over;
  2. Cris Tyre, 21, 5'7", 137, Quantico, VA, 6-3/1, Trainer Ricardo Sanders.
     
     
• FCR: SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT: 132.1 LBS. TO 137 LBS.
  • Troy Mason, 35, 5'5", 137, St Louis, MO, 0-0/0, (60 Am Bx) Trainer Jesse Finney won the National Tournament Title by Walkover after he traveled through the middle of the night Friday night from St. Louis Missouri only to find out that his opponent, Andre Pittman, 18, 5'6, 136, Clarksdale, TN, 5-0/2, Trainer Leroy Curtis, was a NO SHOW. Pittman nor trainer Leroy Curtis never called anyone to announce they were never coming.
    
    

• MTR: LIGHT WELTERWEIGHT: 132 + LBS. - 139.7 LBS
  Belt Presented By: Fred Fitzgerald: IKF MuayThai Referee.
  1. Neal Fox, 28, 5'9", 139.5, Milwaukee, WI, 6-3-2/4, Trainer Duke Roufus won the National Tournament Title by split decision, 30-27, 29-28, 28-29, over;
  2. Nathaniel McIntyre, 30, 5'8", 133, Minneapolis, MN, 6-1/3, Trainer Greg Nelson.
     
     
• FCR: LIGHT WELTERWEIGHT: 137.1 LBS. TO 142 LBS.
  Belt Presented By: Mark Greubel: 1999 IKF/RINGSIDE National Tournament Champion.
  1. John Greubel, 16, 5'10", 140, Martinez, GA, 3-0/0, Trainer Mike Carlson followed in brother Mark's footsteps to win the National Tournament Title with a unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27) victory over;
  2. Mario Williams, 23, 5'9", 140, Calumet City, IL, 6-2-1/0, Trainer Charles Baron. Williams had advanced to the Championship bout with a unanimous decision (30-26, 30-26, 30-26) victory over;
     • Achour Esho, 19, 5'8", 140, Skokie, IL, 5-2-1/0, Trainer Mark Streater.
     • Mike Fusco, 24, 5'6", 142, St Louis, Missouri, 0-1/0, Trainer Jesse Finney lost to Champion John Greubel, in the opening round by split decision, 29-28, 29-28, 28-29.
       
       
• FCR: WELTERWEIGHT: 142.1 LBS. TO 147 LBS.
  Belt Presented By: Dan Stell: IKF Co Founder & Head of IKF Officials.
  1. Kyle McElroy, FCR, 24, 5'11", 147, Lake Zurich, IL, 13-1-1/3, Trainer Team Z won the National Tournament Title by unanimous decision, 29-28, 29-28, 30-27, in a bout that was MUCH CLOSER than the scores appear. This would have been a GREAT TV Bout. The victory was over;
  2. Tom Poey, FCR, 21,5'8", 148, Virginia Beach, VA, 6-3/2, Trainer Curtis Bush who advanced to the Championship round with a unanimous decision victory in another great bout over;
     • Ben Norgaraus, FCR, 27, 5'8", 146, St Louis, MO, 13-3/5, Trainer Jesse Finney
     • Paul Edmonds, FCR, 23, 6', 145, Augusta, GA, 1-4-1/0, Trainer Mike Carlson lost in the opening round to champion Kyle McElroy, by KO at 1:00 minute of the second round.
       • Phil Hommerding, FCR, 21, 5'11", 146, Duluth, MN, 5-1-1/1, Trainer Bill Lassi was a NO SHOW with no phone call to cancel or any notice..
         
         
• IR: SUPER WELTERWEIGHT: 147.1 LBS. TO 153 LBS.
  Belt Presented By: Dan Stell IKF Co Founder & Head of IKF Officials.
  1. Juan Escobar, IR, 19, 5'11", 152, Watsonville, CA, 10-3-1/5, Trainer Dennis Sangundel won the National Tournament Title with a unanimous decision, 30-24, 30-24, 30-24, victory over;
  2. Bryan Helfirich, IR, 17, 5'6", 153, Dixon, IL, 3-5/2, Trainer Mike Mattox.
     
     
• FCR: SUPER WELTERWEIGHT: 147.1 LBS. TO 153 LBS.
  Belt Presented By: Rob Zbilski: IKF North American Representative
  1. Richard Whitenack, FCR, 30, 5'7", 150, Rockforn, IL, 9-3-1/7, Trainer Team Z won the National Tournament Title by TKO at 1:26 of round 2 over;
  2. Josh Jennings, FCR, 24, 5'8", 152, Hudson, Iowa, 4-2/2, Trainer Russ O'Connell.
     
     
• FCR: LIGHT MIDDLEWEIGHT: 153.1 LBS TO 159 LBS
  Belt Presented By: Curtis Bush: 4 Time Pro World Full Contact Champion.
  1. Anthony McGaughey, 22, 5'11", 156, Norman, OK, 17-0/14, Trainer Scott Mincey won the National Tournament title by TKO at 1:22 of the 3rd round over;
  2. Marc Mayfield, 5'9", 159, St Louis MO, 17-5-1/3, Trainer Jesse Finney.
  3. Frank Glover, FCR, 25, 5'9", 159, Lake Zurich, IL, 4-1/0, Trainer: Team Z lost in the opening round to Champion Anthony McGaughey, by TKO at 1:59 of round 3.
     • Aaron Lassi, 23, 5'10", 158, Duluth, MN, 17-5-1/1, Trainer Bill Lassi and
     • Zachary Day, 36, 5'10", 159, Augusta, GA, 10-1/5, BX: 10-2/0, Trainer Mike Carlson were both NO SHOWS with no phone call to cancel or any notice..
       
       
• IR: LIGHT MIDDLEWEIGHT: 153.1 LBS TO 159 LBS
  Belt Presented By: Kongnapa: Pro World MuayThai Champion.
  1. Adam Rogers, 37, 5'10", 159, Seaside, CA, 8-3/3, Trainer Rick Noble won the National Tournament Title by a unanimous decision, 30-26, 30-25, 30-25, over;
  2. Kurt Leda,17, 5'10", 157, Omaha, NB, 0-1/0, Trainer Mick Doyle.
     
     
• FCR: MIDDLEWEIGHT: 159.1 LBS TO 165 LBS.
  Belt Presented By: Rob Zbilski: IKF North American Representative.
  1. Stephen Thompson, 17, 6', 165, Simpsonville, SC, 11-0/5, Trainer, Ray Thompson won the National Tournament title by unanimous decision, 30-23, 30-24, 30-24, over;
  2. Peyton Russell, 30, 6', 165, Bloomington, MN, 15-3/4, Trainer C. B. Bunkholt who was the number 1 seed.
  3. Mike Mason, 32, 6', 165, St Louis, MO, 14-2/5, Trainer Jesse Finney had originally won by split decision with 2 judges giving him the win at, 29-28, 29-28 with 1 judge giving it to Thompson 30-27. However, an expected protest of the bout (Expected due to the crowd reaction) by Thompson's trainer, Ray Thompson brought the bout under protest review. After the review, all 4 new judges gave the bout to eventual Champion, Stephen Thompson, 30-27.
     
     
• MTR: LIGHT MIDDLEWEIGHT: 147.4 + LBS - 156.2 LBS.
  Belt Presented By: Steve Wiley: Nationals Equiupment Coordinator.
  1. Rob Wiley, 21, 5'9", 156, Omaha, NB, 9-2-1/3, Trainer Mick Doyle won the National tournament title by split decision, 29-28, 28-29, 29-28, over;
  2. Jason Strout, 23, 5'10", 152, Milwaukee, WI, 8-1/2, Trainer Duke Roufus who advanced to the Championship bout by a TKO victory at :34 seconds of round 1 over;
     • Matthew Theobald, 28, 5'11", 153, Iowa City, IA, 0-1/0, Trainer Crris Weitz.
     • Shaman Brown, 27, 5'9", 150, Atlanta, GA, 4-2-0, Trainer Pedro Vilallobos lost to Champion Rob Wiley in the opening round by unanimous decision, 29-28, 30-27, 29-28.
       
       
• IR: MIDDLEWEIGHT: 159.1 LBS TO 165 LBS.
  Belt Presented By: Mick Doyle: IKF Nationals Host & Trainer.
  1. Narayan Stitt, 28, 5'10",165, Seaside, CA, 5-0/1, Trainer Rick Noble won the National Tournament Title by "Overtime" Unanimous decision... Yes, OVERTIME. After 3 rounds, the judges scores were 28-28, 28-28 and 30-26 which would have been a Majority Draw. Since there are no draws in the tournament, the 2 fought a 4th round tie breaker which Stitt won 10-9 over;
  2. Ronell Huston, 29, 5'9", 160, Detroit, MI, 5-2/4, Trainer Elliot Cooper who was the number 1 seed of the division.
  3. Bryan Corley, 20, 6', 160, Omaha, NB, 2-1/0, Trainer Mick Doyle lost his opening round bout to Champion Narayan Stitt 29-27, 29-27, 30-27.
     
     
• MTR: MIDDLEWEIGHT: 156.2 + LBS. - 165 LBS
  Belt Presented By: Craig Monyelle: Pro U. S. Full Contact Champion.
  1. Chris Weitz, 20, 6', 165, Milwaukee, WI, 10-0/0, Trainer Dean Lessei won the National Tournament title by unanimous decision, 30-27, 29-28, 30-27, over;
  2. Harvey Grasse, 26, 5'10", 165, Milwaukee, WI, 4-2/0, Trainer Duke Roufus.
     
     
• FCR: SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT: 165.1 LBS TO 172 LBS:
  1. Jesse Finney, 25, 6', 175.5, St Louis, MO, 18-0/14, self trained became the first National Tournament Champion of the weekend with a split decision, 30-27, 29-28, 28-29, victory over;
  2. Mark Brennan, 30, 5'11", 171, Simpsonville, SC, 9-3-2/1, Trainer, Ray Thompson on Saturday.
     We apologize to Mr. Finney that there was no official "In ring belt presentation" on his bout. It took us awhile to come up with a belt and at the end of his bout, we didn't have the belt ready to present yet... Those at the event know why......
     
     
• IR: SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT: 165.1 LBS TO 172 LBS
  Belt Presented By: Jesse Finney: 2000 IKF/RINGSIDE National Tournament Champion & IKF Promoter.
  1. Paul Donelson, 25, 5'11" 172, Omaha, NB, 7-4/3, Trainer Mick Doyle won the National Tournament title by unanimous decision, 29-27, 30-27, 30-26, over;
  2. Chris Carter, 22, 6'3", 168, Quantico, VA, 0-1/0, Trainer Ricardo Sanders.
     
     
• SS: SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT: 165.1 LBS TO 172 LBS
  Belt Presented By: Dan Stell: IKF Co-Founder & Head of IKF Officials.
  1. Wayne Wilks, 30, 6', 172, Philadelphia, PA, 6-2/2, Trainer James Walsh, made history as he became the first ever to win an IKF National Amateur Tournament San Shou Title Bout. His victory came by an impressive HEAD KICK KO at :35 seconds of round 1 to;
  2. Raymond Jenkins, 26, 5'10", 160, Detroit, MI, 0-0/0, Trainer: Elliot Cooper.
     
     
• FCR: LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT: 172.1 LBS TO 179 LBS
  Belt Presented By: Rob Zbilski: IKF North American Representative.
  1. John Ingram, 22, 6'2", 179, St Louis, MO, 9-1/6, Trainer Jesse Finney won the National Tournament Title by majority decision, 29-27, 29-27, 28-28, in a bout that could have went either way over;
  2. Paul Pearman, 39, 5'8", 173, Augusta, GA, 8-3/3, Trainer, Mike Carlson.
     The bout was protested on 2 points. 1: To over-rule a knockdown that was counted against Pearman, which it was and 2: to re-score the bout.
     After the protest review, 2 of the 4 judges scored the bout for Ingram, 29-28 while the other 2 scored it 30-27 for Ingram.
     Still a close bout. This bout would make an excellent rematch!
     
     
• MTR: LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT: 165 + LBS. - 178.20 LBS
  Belt Presented By: Mike Storm: IKF National Tournament Referee.
  1. Derek Yuen, 32, 5'11", 176, Milwaukee, WI, 10-3-0/5, Trainer Duke Roufus won the National Tournament Title by TKO at 1:32 of round 2 over;
  2. Kevin Brown, 31, 5'8", 178, Omaha, NB, 2-1/2, Trainer Mick Doyle.
     
     
• FCR: LIGHT CRUISERWEIGHT: 179.1 LBS TO 186 LBS
  Belt Presented By: Terry Storm: IKF National Tournament Referee.
  1. Michael Ivey, 22, 5'10", 186, Quitman, MS, 2-0/0, Trainer Larry Kern won the National Tournament Title by split decision, 29-28, 29-28, 27-30, over;
  2. Scott Fischer, 32, 5' 10", 186, Lake Zurich. IL, 3-1/0, Trainer Team Z.
     
     
• IR: LIGHT CRUISERWEIGHT: 179.1 LBS TO 186 LBS
  Belt Presented By: Joe Taylor: Tournament Co-Founder & Ringside Inc. Representative.
  1. Michael Ross, 26, 6'4", 183, Detroit, MI, 3-0/0, Trainer Elliot Cooper won his National Tournament Title by unanimous decision, 30-23, 29-26, 29-24, over;
  2. Nick Benton, 21, 5'11", 186, Omaha, NB, 0-1/0, Trainer Mick Doyle.
     
     
• IR: CRUISERWEIGHT: 186.1 LBS TO 195 LBS.
  • WINNER: Clint Zimmerman
  • Clint Zimmerman's opponent Quincy Morris, 23, 5'11", 195, Stillwater, OK, 1-0/1, Trainer Ladell Elliot was a NO SHOW
    with no phone call or cancelation notice giving Zimmerman the Title automatically.
    Zimmerman being the warrior he is, choose to move to the Heavyweight Division and "FIGHT"
    for the title against opponents heavier than him.. See IR Heavyweight Division Below...
    
    
• FCR: HEAVYWEIGHT: 195.1 LBS. TO 215 LBS.
  Belt Presented By: Carlton Duncan: IKF National Tournament Referee.
  1. Dylan Horsley, 31, 6'1", 200 Augusta, GA, 10-1/2, Trainer, Mike Carlson won the National Tournament Title by TKO at 1:51 of round 3 over;
  2. Rick Bloyer, 31, 6'2", 214, Beloit, WS, 7-2/5, Trainer Craig Monyelle.
     • Dan Erickson, FCR, 25, 6'6, 214, Duluth, MN, 4-0/1, Trainer Bill Lassi was a NO SHOW with no phone call or cancelation notice.
       
       
• IR: HEAVYWEIGHT: 195.1 LBS. TO 215 LBS.
  Belt Presented By: Christopher Tyre: 1999 IKF/RINGSIDE National Tournament Champion.
  1. Clint Zimmerman, 24, 6'1", 190, Davenport, IA, 6-0/6, Trainer Nick Tarpein moved up in weight so he could have a bout since his opponent (Quincy Morris) in the Cruiserweight Division was a NO SHOW at the weigh-ins. Not only did he do well... Not only did he end up winning the National Tournament Title but he won both his bouts by TKO! He won the Championship bout by TKO at 1:58 of round 1 over;
  2. Steve Bass, 29, 6', 213, Omaha, NB, 7-4/0, Trainer Mick Doyle, who was moved from the MuayThai division due to the weight limit. Bass had won his preliminary bout by TKO at the break of round 1 & 2 over;
     • Clint Wiggins, 27, 6'1", 205, Millen, GA, 4-3/0, Trainer Mike Carlson.
     • Marshall Davis, 28, 6', 200, Lawerenceville, GA, 1-2/0, Trainer Pedro Villabrosos lost by TKO at :57 seconds of round 1 to Champion Clint Zimmerman.
       
       
• MTR: HEAVYWEIGHT: 189.20 + LBS. - 200.2 LBS.
  1. Brent Reeves, 20, 6'2", 193, Scottsdale, AZ, 3-0-1/3, Trainer Bob Karmel won the National tournament title by Walkover.
     His opponent was forced to move due to weight that was not his own error.
     Because of the move, it left Reeves without an opponent, giving him an automatic win by Walkover.
     
     
• IR: SUPER HEAVYWEIGHT: 215.1 LBS. AND UP.
  Belt Presented By: Kevin Miller:1999 IKF/RINGSIDE National Tournament Champion.
  1. Kurt Hasley, 32, 6'3", 236, Chattanooga, TN, 3-1/3, Trainer Chet Blalock won the National Tournament Title by TKO at 1:25 of round 1 over;
  2. Edward Harrington, 30, 5'11", 215, Drexel Hill, PA, 10-1/6, Trainer David Son who advanced to the Championship bout after winning by TKO at :57 seconds of round 3 over;
     • Terrance Meehan, 32, 5'10", 225, Quantico, VA, 1-0/0, Trainer Ricardo Sanders in the first round.
     • R. J. (Robert) Bruland, 24, 5'10", 230, Omaha, NB, 1-0-1/0, Trainer Mick Doyle lost in the opening round to Champion Kurt Hasley, by TKO at 1:13 of round 2.
       
       

So there you have it kickboxing fans. The BEST of America! Now we're sure there are some critics out there who will say that the IKF National Amateur Tournament was no big deal. These comments of course only come from those who choose not to make the sacrifices to get to the event and put their skills to the test against THE BEST in the first place! We're sure some lacked the finances or the time and we truly regret had true personal problems to deal with which forced them to cancel from the event, so we exclude them from our comments here...

In the end, what is the price of being the BEST? Being the best takes sacrifices because if it were so easy to do, everyone would be doing it. Which speaks for us here at the IKF as well. The National Amateur Tournament is not a profit promotion for us by any means. But that's not WHY we do it. The $10,000+ that comes out of our pocket for related expenses is done for the same reason the fighters sacrifice to come to the event in the first place.

"Because to be the best, you must make sacrifices!"

This event NEEDS to be done! It's how we TRULY find out who really are THE BEST Amateur Kickboxers in America instead of matching 2 guys from the same town for an Amateur U.S. title or worse yet, an amateur World title... Regardless of where one lives, what one can afford. If a fighter truly wanted to be there, they would have found a way to get there. The stories we heard of the sacrifices that were made were beyond belief. The Gladiator Spirit in the eyes of each fighter and trainer during their bouts was just as evident in their passion as they told us how they "MADE IT HAPPEN" to sacrifice and commit to get to the event in the first place. Someone put it a bit stronger when she said, "If your parent was dieing, you would find a way to get there. It's all a matter of priority. What's important to you? Claiming to others that your the best or actually BEING THE BEST?"

Some critics may look at the results above and say that some Champions didn't have much competition against some opponents with losing records or worse yet, with no fights at all. Some call these people easy winners. "We call them CHAMPIONS!" Why? Because when they made the commitment to attend the National Championships, they didn't know who there competition was. They just knew they wanted to prove to every challenger and their peers in the crowd that they were the best and they did it.

Look at the fighters with no fights, or losing records that entered this Tournament. What was their plan? To take a vacation trip to "IOWA" of all places and just lose again? Or was their quest far greater... To be match up against the best and see who comes out Champion? If you have a great record as an amateur and were not there, how does it make "YOU" look compared to those without great records or no records at all that DID make the sacrifice to be there?

Wondering where the TRUE ring warriors are still? We'll tell you where they were last weekend... In Iowa battling for the National Championships. Where great records, wins and losses mean nothing when the event begins. Only 1 quest, 1 goal... To be the National Amateur Kickboxing Champion! And those who lost? They were the SECOND BEST in the Nation, the 3rd, the 4th and so on...We'd like to inform you all that the competitors at this years 2nd annual IKF National Amateur Kickboxing Championships gave us the best that Amateur Kickboxing could ever offer! "THE BEST!"

We can't count the number of times that someone came up to us and said the level of skill, HEART and competition was so much higher than last year. Not that last year was bad at all, but their opinion was of surprise as to the level of skill and heart these fighters fought at. With such a great challenge to each, it clearly brought out the best in every ring warrior present! It was clear what all of us there witnessed this weekend, We all saw THE BEST in the USA!

You question this? Know someone that could have won a title at this years National Amateur Championships? Well, as the saying goes...

"Many Talk the Talk, but only REAL Champions WALK THE WALK!"

It was clear to us that EVERYONE who entered the ring in Council Bluffs Iowa, USA this last weekend was a TRUE CHAMPION, win or lose! They were the warriors who were not afraid to take on the unknown challenges that lay ahead of them. Not afraid of WHO they would face eye to eye in the ring of battle. Great records and past titles meant nothing compared to the feeling of victory in winning a true National Championship! Their sacrifices to make it to Iowa were great and excuses few. Which is why we salute each and every one of the mighty amateur ring warriors that WALKED THE WALK this last weekend.

So, what's left for the critics? The ones who still don't think that the National Amateur Tournament IS THE MAIN EVENT For all USA Amateur Kickboxers? What do we have to say to these critics? Two things. 1, "Where were you?" and number 2 pretty much sums up everything we have just said.... It speaks for itself;

"It is not the critic who counts, not the man who points out where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred with dust, sweat and blood... At the best he knows the triumph of high achievement, if he fails, at least he fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who knew neither victory nor defeat."
Theodore Roosevelt