Welcome to the 2012 TXMMA Awards – MMA Edition

It’s been another great year of tremendous growth for the Texas Mixed Martial Arts Community in 2012.

Our goal for these awards is to recognize outstanding performances and contributions within our community statewide over the past calendar year. With this goal in mind, we’ve done our best to work with the community’s recommendations along with our own extensive amount of research and record keeping in nominating what we feel are the most deserving candidates within all categories this year.

While we certainly do not claim perfection on our interpretation and do expect some modicum of controversy since these awards are both objective and subjective in nature and our research can only carry us so far, we hope the community will work with us in narrowing it down even further so we can ultimately claim a winner in each category.

2012 TXMMA Awards – Voting Process

The election process to identify a winner in each category will be conducted via a mixture of confidential panel voting along with a populous fan vote conducted via our TXMMA Facebook Page. This process has been designed to allow for the unbiased election of the top nominees for each of the 2012 TXMMA Award Categories while also serving as the means to decide the People’s Choice Award Winners. For a detailed explanation of the election process for the 2012 TXMMA Awards, please click here.

Notice of Eligibility: Fighters must reside in Texas as primary place of residence and/or fought the majority of their bouts within the state of Texas in 2012 to be considered. Events up for awards must also have taken place in Texas. Certain other criteria may apply to select categories at our discretion.

2012 TXMMA Awards – Timeline of Events

► December 28, 2012    – MMA edition finalists released; Voting commences.

► January 10, 2012        – MMA edition voting deadline at midnight

► January 11, 2012 – MMA edition People’s Choice Winners announced.

► January 13, 2012 – Official 2012 TXMMA Award Winners announced.

► January 17, 2012 – Grappling edition finalists released; Voting commences.

► January 27, 2012 – Grappling edition voting deadline at midnight.

► January 28, 2012 – People’s Choice Winners announced for Grappling Edition.

► February 1, 2012 – Official Winners announced for Grappling Edition

Read on to view the finalists and vote for your choices to win! Enjoy the 2012 TXMMA Awards!

The purpose of this award is to recognize the most exceptional fight of 2012 at the professional level – taking into consideration fan reaction, competitive nature, and bout significance.

2012 TXMMA Pro Fight of the Year Finalists

► Chris Pecero vs. Douglas Frey (XKO 16)

► Cody Williams vs. Steven Peterson (Legacy 14)

► Clayton Robinson vs. Donnie Bell (Legacy 13)

► Derrick Lewis vs. Jared Rosholt (Legacy 13)

► Flavio Alvaro vs. Rey Trujillo (UWF 4)

► JP Cole vs. Kashif Solarin (Premier Fight Series)

► Matt Schnell vs. Ryan Hollis (Legacy 14)

► Mitchell Hale vs. Anselmo Luna (America’s Most Wanted)

► Sean Spencer vs. Evan Cutts (Legacy 13)

► Steven Peterson vs. Matt Hobar 2 (LFC 16)

CLICK HERE TO VOTE NOW!

The purpose of this award is to recognize the professional fighter who had the most successful year on the Texas MMA Scene in 2012. Candidate must have competed in at least two professional bouts in 2012 to qualify.

2012 TXMMA Pro Fighter of the Year Finalists

► Andrew Craig (2-0 in UFC, wins over K. Noke and R. Natal)

► Chas Skelly (3-0, wins over R. Trujillo, L. Vega, and J. Myers)

► Chris Pecero (5-1, Title win over Douglas Frey at XKO 16)

► Colton Smith (1-1 official, 4-1 total in 2012, TUF 16 winner)

► Derrick Lewis (2-0-1, Title win over J.  Rosholt at LFC 14, NC against J. Constant at F2W)

► James Vick (3-1 on TUF, made it to semi-finals of Ultimate Fighter Season 15)

► Johny Hendricks (2-0, wins over M. Kampmann & J. Koscheck, ranked top-3 in division)

► Ryan Benoit (3-0, wins over J. Sandoval, R. Villarreal, C. Williams)

► Sean Spencer (2-0, wins over E. Cutts, J. Daily)

► Will Campuzano (2-0, title win over J. Flick at LFC 16, win over J, Sampo)

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The purpose of this award is to recognize the most spectacular knockout of 2012 at the professional level. Bout finish must have been ruled a knockout (not TKO) by the state of Texas in order to qualify.

2012 TXMMA Pro Knockout of the Year Finalists

► David Armas over Kirk Hubble by knee (UWF 4)

► Derrick Lewis over Jared Rosholt by punch (Legacy 13)

► Domingo Pilarte over Daniel Delgado by punch (Legacy 15)

► Frank Trevino over Corey Bellino by punches (STFC 21)

► Geraldo Abadie over Jeff Lawson by punch/knee (IMKF 3)

► Jorge ‘Macaco’ Patino over Clay Hantz (Legacy 11)

► Pete Spratt over Daniel Acacio, spinning backfist (Amazon Forest Combat 2)

► Ray Rodriguez over Joseph Salas by slam (Legacy 13)

► Rey Trujillo over Munil Adriano, superman punch (Legacy 10)

► Thomas Almeida over Cody Williams by elbow (Legacy 15)

Honorable Mention (Ruled TKO by TDLR)

► Artenas Young over Brandon Mitchell (IMKF 3)

► Charlie Ontiveros over Mark Garcia (Legacy 12)

► Chidi Njokuani over Jonathan Harris (Legacy 10)

► Daniel Jolly over Andre Kavanaugh (Fiesta Pro MMA Bash)

► Jay Jay Sanchez over Ciprian Hangan (XKO 14)

► Will Campuzano over Jimmy Flick (Legacy 16)

CLICK HERE TO VOTE NOW!

The purpose of this award is to recognize the most outstanding submission of 2012 at the professional level. Bout finish must have been ruled a submission by the state of Texas in order to qualify.

2012 TXMMA Pro Submission of the Year Finalists

► Alan Nascimento over Terry Acker by kneebar (Legacy 12)

► Carlos Ferreira over Hector Munoz by armbar (UWF 2)

► Chad Robichaux over Joseph Sandoval by north/south choke (Legacy 11)

► Donnie Bell over Brad Mitchell by rear-naked choke (XKO 16, Title Fight)

► Hayward Charles over Roy Spoon by kneebar (XKO 15)

► Jeff Rexroad over Lucas Pimenta by “Rexangle” (Legacy 14)

► Jimmy Flick Wins over Randy Villarreal by Von Flue choke (STFC 19)

► Klayton Mai over Alex Russ by guillotine choke (Legacy 16)

► Matt Thompson over Jake Rosholt by kneebar (XKO 15)

► Steven Peterson over Cody Williams by omoplata (Legacy 14)

CLICK HERE TO VOTE NOW!

The purpose of this award is to recognize the most exceptional fight of 2012 at the amateur level – taking into consideration fan reaction, competitive nature, and bout significance.

2012 TXMMA Amateur Fight of the Year Candidates

► Adrian Vallejo vs. Cody Medrano (Alamo Showdown 4)

► Alexander Chhang vs. Hector Cortina (Cage Combat 9)

► Geoffrey Neal vs. Guilherme Moreira (Cage Combat 8)

► Jacob Silva vs. Ricky Turcios (Legacy Amateur 8)

► Leville Simpson vs. Adrian Barrera (Cage Wars 1)

► Paul Earls vs. Kevin Leib (SCC 1)

► Parker Reid vs. Boone Blair (PCG 11)

► Ricardo Palacios vs. Adrian Vallejo (Texas Rage in the Cage 14)

► Ricky Turcios vs. Ryan Hollis (Legacy Amateur 7)

► Roberto Sanchez vs. Ramiro Cortina (Legacy Amateur 7)

CLICK HERE TO VOTE NOW!

The purpose of this award is to recognize the amateur fighter who had the most successful year on the Texas MMA Scene in 2012.

2012 TXMMA Amateur Fighter of the Year Finalists

► Chris Gutierrez (4-0 with 2 titles confirmed on MMA.tv)

► Geoffrey Neal (4-0 with 2 titles before going pro)

► Jacob Silva (4-1 with 3 titles)

► Jeremy Hardy (3-0 with one title)

► Parker Reid (3-1 with one title)

► Ricardo Palacios (3-0 in 3 title before going pro)

► Ryan Hollis (3-1 with one title before going pro)

► Trevin Giles (4-0 with one title)

CLICK HERE TO VOTE NOW!

The purpose of this award is to recognize the most spectacular knockout of 2012 at the amateur level. Bout finish must have been ruled a knockout (not TKO) by the state of Texas in order to qualify.

2012 TXMMA Amateur Knockout of the Year Finalists

► Aaron Croon over John Rodriguez by punch (Cage Combat 7)

► Carlos “CJ” Vergara over Elias Garcia by punch (Alamo Showdown 3)

► Cameron Graves over Jose Ceja by head kick (Cage Combat 10)

► Chris Lopez over Michael Eaglin by punch (Cage Combat 12)

► Geoffrey Neal over BC Compton by punch (Cage Combat 7)

► Joel Scott over David Salazar by punch (Texas Rage in the Cage 15)

► Ray Rodriguez over Josh Rios by flying knee (PCG 4)

► Servando Almaraz over Coltin Boggs by punch (Cage Combat 11)

► Tommy Guerrero over Eric Hallier by knee (PCG 6)

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The purpose of this award is to recognize the most outstanding submission of 2012 at the amateur level. Bout finish must have been ruled a submission by the state of Texas in order to qualify.

2012 TXMMA Amateur Submission of the Year Finalists

► Cameron Graves over Edgar Juarez by armbar (Cage Combat 12)

► Charlie Ontiveros over Levi West by guillotine choke (Legacy Amateur 8)

► Will Hastings over Jonathan Stern by rear-naked choke (Xtreme fight Club 2)

► Jared Perez over Lester Clark by arm triangle (PCG 7)

► Julian Vega over Delis Borges by armbar (Legacy Amateur 7)

► Robert Yamashita over Kaileb Cummins by triangle/armbar (Legacy Amateur 7)

► Sijin Kurian over John Ballah by guillotine choke (Legacy Amateur 10)

► Ryan Hollis over James DeHerrera by armbar (Cage Combat 9)

► Kolby Adams over Chad Box by guillotine choke (Cage Wars 1)

► William Cody Medrano over Parker Reid by armbar (Alamo Showdown 3)

CLICK HERE TO VOTE NOW!

The purpose of this award is to recognize the most exceptional fight of 2012 within the female divisions –taking into consideration fan reaction, competitive nature, and bout significance.

2012 TXMMA Female Fight of the Year Finalists

► Bee Nguyen vs. Ashley Meza (LAM 10)

► Christi Morgan vs. Ashley Cannon (Alamo Showdown 4)

► Deborah Garcia Vs. Jazmine Quezada (Alamo Showdown 5)

► Katherine Roy vs. Jessica Prado (PCG 8)

► Paige Vanzant vs. Jordan Gaza (UWF 4)

► Paige Vanzant vs. Amber Stautzenberger (PFS 2)

► Sabrina Garcia vs. Christi Morgan (PCG 4)

► Sabrina Garcia vs. Katherine Roy (PCG 9)

► Stephanie Alba vs. Paulina Granados (Cage Combat 12)

► Stephanie Alba vs. Ashley Meza – (Legacy Amateur 8)

CLICK HERE TO VOTE NOW!

The purpose of this award is to recognize the female fighter who had the most successful year on the Texas MMA Scene in 2012.

2012 TXMMA Female Fighter of the Year Finalists

► Anita Rodriguez (1-1 in 2012)

► Audrey Alvarez (1-0 in 2012)

► Christy Morgan (2-1 in 2012)

► Katherine Roy (1-1 in 2012)

► Nicole Varone (2-1 in 2012)

► Paige Vanzant (2-0 in 2012)

► Paulina Granados (2-0 with a title in 2012)

► Stephanie Alba (2-1 in 2012)

► Sabrina Garcia (3-0 in 2012)

CLICK HERE TO VOTE NOW!

The purpose of this award is to recognize the professional fighter who made the most significant strides at furthering their professional career in 2012.

2012 TXMMA Breakthrough Fighter of the Year Finalists

► Carlos Diego Ferreira (3-0 in 2012, all submissions)

► Chas Skelly (3-0 in 2012)

► Clayton Robinson (3-0 in 2012)

► Colton Smith (1-1 official, 4-1 total in 2012, TUF 16 winner)

► James Vick (3-1 in 2012, all TUF 15 exhibitions – making it to the semi-finals)

► Klayton Mai (3-0 in 2012, all submissions)

► Matthew Hunt (3-0 in 2012 after going 1-2 in 2011)

► Roger Narvaez (3-0 in 2012, all finishes)

► Ryan Benoit (3-0, wins over J. Sandoval, R. Villarreal, C. Williams)

► Will Campuzano (2-0 with a title in flyweight division in 2012)

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The purpose of this award is to recognize to recognize the most outstanding new performer on the Texas (Pro) MMA scene. Candidate must have made their professional debut during the 2012 calendar year to be considered.

2012 TXMMA Rookie of the Year Finalists

► Alfredo Leija (2-0 in 2012)

► Charlie Ontiveros (3-0 in 2012)

► Darrion Caldwell (2-0 in 2012)

► Matthew Schnell (2-0 in 2012)

► Paige Vanzant (2-0 in 2012)

► Patrick Ybarra (3-0 in 2012)

► Ryan Hollis (2-1 in 2012)

► Sammy Smith (2-0 in 2012)

► Tony Tipton (2-0 in 2012)

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The purpose of this award is to recognize the fighter who came back from inactivity or adversity to have a successful comeback year in 2012.

2012 TXMMA Comeback Fighter of the Year Finalists

► Chas Skelly (3-0 in 2012 after being out all of 2011)

► Chris Pecero (4-1 in 2012 after 2-2 2011)

► Derrick Krantz (3-1 in 2012 after 0-2 in 2011)

► Lester Batres (3-0 in 2012 after going 0-1 in 2011)

► Matthew Hunt (3-0 in 2012 after going 1-2 in 2011)

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The purpose of this award is to recognize the biggest surprise bout ending of the year in 2012. Winner must have been generally-recognized as an underdog going heading into the bout to qualify.

2012 TXMMA Upset of the Year Finalists

► David Armas over Quaint Kempf (Legacy 13)

► David Armas over Kirk Hubble (UWF 4)

► Derrick Lewis over Jared Rosholt by KO (Legacy 13)

► Jeff Rexroad over Lucas Pimenta (Legacy 14)

► Jose Sanchez over Ciprian Hangan (XKO 14)

► Matt Thompson over Jake Rosholt  (XKO 15)

► Nelson Salas over Angel Huerta (Legacy 11)

► Nick Gonzalez over Ray Blodget (Legacy 15)

► Paige VanZant over Jordan Gaza (UWF 4)

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The purpose of this award is to recognize the professional fighter who exemplified the attitude of “taking on all comers” in 2012. Win or lose, they were always in the cage.

2012 TXMMA Ironman of the Year Finalists

► Chris Rose (3 fights, 2 on less than 24 hour notice *amateur)

► Cody Williams (5 fights)

► David Armas (5 fights)

► Donnie Bell (5 fights)

► Gilbert Jimenez (5 fights)

► Chris Pecero (5 fights)

► Randy Villarreal (5 fights)

► Rey Trujillo (7 fights)

► Edgar Juarez (7 fights *amateur)

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The purpose of this award is to recognize the most disputed finish of 2012; as defined by those decisions or finishes that caused the most controversy post-fight based on general consensus.

Note: this award does not mean the final results of these fights were wrong per say, but rather denote the controversy resulting from said fights.

2012 TXMMA Controversy of the Year Finalists

► Artenas Young over Bubba Bush by DQ – punches to back of head? (Legacy 11)

► Chad Robichaux missing weight and pulling out of title fight vs. Will Campuzano (Legacy 12)

► Chris Tickle over Douglas Frey by TKO – early stoppage? (Legacy 13)

► Gregory Diaz over Leville Simpson by DQ – knee reinforced or not? (Cage Combat 9)

► Jonathan Lopez over Billy Buch by DQ – bad ref call? (Fiesta Pro MMA Bash)

► Lucas Pimenta over John Malbrough in 3 instead of 5 rounds at tournament finals (UWF 4)

► Matt Schnell over Ryan Hollis by Split Decision – 29-28, 28-29, 29-28 (Legacy 14)

CLICK HERE TO VOTE NOW!

The purpose of this award is to recognize the coach(es) who’ve contributed to most in 2012 by virtue of their fighters performances in MMA competition here in Texas. Consideration given to overall amount of fighters produced and success of fighters at both the amateur and professional levels.

2012 TXMMA MMA Trainer(s) of the Year Finalists

► 4OZ Fight Club (Bob Perez, Jeremy Mahon)

► American Revolution (Freddy Medellin)

► Gold Team (Jorge ‘Macaco’ Patino)

► Octagon MMA (Sayif Saud)

► Phalanx MMA (Durwyn Lamb)

► Saekson Janjira Muay Thai (Saekson Janjira)

► Silverback Fight Club (Tony Orozco)

► Team Mohler (Allen Mohler)

► Team Takedown (Marc Laimon)

► Team Tooke / Jace Pitre MMA (Jace Pitre / Travis Tooke)

CLICK HERE TO VOTE NOW!

The purpose of this award is to recognize the most successful MMA manager / management group in the state of Texas in the 2012 calendar year.

Criteria for Selection: Quantifiable statistics regarding the amount of fighters managed along with individual and overall successes by those fighters.

2012 TXMMA Manager(s) of the Year Finalists

► B3 Sports

► First Round Management Group

► Imperial Fight Management

► KO Dynasty

► Team Takedown

CLICK HERE TO VOTE NOW!

The purpose of this award is to recognize the referee of the year in 2012 as voted by the Texas MMA Community.

2012 TXMMA Referee of the Year Finalists

► Danny Dealejandro

► Don Turnage

► Jake Montalvo

► Jason “Jay” Stafin

► Joshua Ferraro

► Kerry Hatley

► Kevin Hancock

► Michelle Drake

► Patrick Patlan

► Steve Armstrong

CLICK HERE TO VOTE NOW!

The purpose of this award is to recognize the sponsor that best defined the spirit of the Texas MMA Scene in 2012. Company must be involved in the business by sponsoring athletes, promotions, and/or other driving entities in the sport in order to qualify. Preference given to those nominated during our selection process in the last two weeks of November.

2012 TXMMA Sponsor of the Year Finalists

► AmmoToGo.com

► Armbar Submission Gear

► Born2Bang Athletics

► Bull Prints / Bullshirts

► Cruz Combat

► Furious Brand

► My Fight Shop

► Rock’s Supplements

► Revolutus Fight Wear

► Torque Sports and Performance

► Wu MMA

CLICK HERE TO VOTE NOW!

The purpose of this award is to recognize the promoter that had the most successful year on the Texas MMA Scene – as defined by volume of events held, quality of events, profitability, fighter / vendor feedback, and overall fan support. Must have held at least 3 events within the state of Texas during the 2012 calendar year to qualify.

2012 TXMMA Promoter of the Year Finalists

► Bussey Family, XKO (Arlington, TX)

► Eric Garcia and Jace Pitre, Cage Combat (Humble, TX)

► Fabian Butler, Twenty Four Seven Entertainment (Midland, TX)

► Jake Latimer, Immortal Kombat Fighting (Houston, TX)

► Jennifer Ray and Trevor Bird, Cowboys Extreme Cagefighting (San Antonio, TX)

► Mick Maynard, Legacy Fighting Championship (Houston, TX)

► Noe Beltran, Texas Rage in the Cage (Beaumont, TX)

► Oscar Enriquez, Ultimate Warrior Fighting (Corpus Christi, TX)

► Raul Ramos, STFC (Rio Grande Valley)

► Steve Armstrong, Xtreme Fight Club (Mesquite, TX)

CLICK HERE TO VOTE NOW!

The purpose of this award is to recognize the professional event that can be considered the best of 2012. Consideration given for quality of matchups, level of fighters on the card, overall excitement within the fights themselves, state/national significance, and post-fight positive feedback generated by the event within the community.

2012 TXMMA Pro Event of the Year Finalists

► Legacy FC 12

► Legacy FC 13

► Legacy FC 14

► Legacy FC 15

► Legacy FC 16

► STFC 19

► UWF 2

► UWF 4 – Finale

► XKO 14

► XKO 16

CLICK HERE TO VOTE NOW!

The purpose of this award is to recognize the amateur event that can be considered the best of 2012. Consideration given for quality of matchups, level of fighters on the card, overall excitement within the fights themselves, state/national significance, and post-fight positive feedback generated by the event within the community.

2012 TXMMA Amateur Event of the Year Finalists

► ABG Promotions – Rugged Saints

► Alamo Showdown 3

► Cage Combat 8

► Cage Combat 9

► Cage Combat 10

► Cage Combat 12

► Legacy Amateur Series 7

► Legacy Amateur Series 8

► Legacy Amateur Series 10 *Hybrid Muay Thai / MMA Card

► Premiere Combat Group: Cowboys Extreme Cagefighting 9

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The purpose of this award is to recognize the most MMA-friendly venue in Texas, as voted on by the fans.

2012 TXMMA MMA Venue of the Year Finalists

► Allen Event Center

► Arena Theatre

► Cowboys Dance Hall

► La Grave Field

► Galveston Island Convention Center

► The Gym

► Texas Motor Speedway

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The purpose of this award is to recognize the most memorable moment of the year in 2012, as defined by feedback from the community.

2012 TXMMA Moment of the Year Finalists

► Chris Quitiquit suffers a massive cut vs. Flavio Alvaro at UWF 3

► Daniel Pineda beats Pat Schilling in UFC debut (1^st Legacy fighter to get called up)

► Derrick Lewis’ title victory over Jared Rosholt in honor of his grandfather at LFC 13

► Eric Thompson dragged to stool and loses amateur title fight versus Trevin Giles

► Fighter’s mom jumps over the cage and onto referee Joe Soliz at Cage Combat

► Legacy FC comes to Dallas for the first time at the Europa Sports & Get Fit Expo

► Matt Hobar suffers elbow dislocation against Steven Peterson at LFC 13

► Ryan Hollis comes out dressed like Banana Man at Legacy 15

► The VKO – Levi West vomits and loses fight versus Kaileb Cummins at Legacy 15

► UWF brings MMA to the American Bank Center with Tournament of Warriors

CLICK HERE TO VOTE NOW!

The purpose of this award is to recognize a deserving individual or group for their dedication to helping or bettering others in the community in 2012.

2012 TXMMA Community Service Award Finalists

► CDM Promotions – Holiday Gift Drive, Thanksgiving Food Service, Ongoing efforts with At-Risk Youth

► Marcia Ogasawara / Legacy FC – Red Cross Blood Drive, School Supply Drive, Race for the Cure, etc.

► Superior Combative Championships – TADSAW Charity Drive

► UFFL MMA – Fight for Cash Charity Even and the Salute To Arms Wounded Warrior Event

CLICK HERE TO VOTE NOW!

The purpose of this award is to recognize a deserving individual for their long-term commitment to the Texas MMA Community. Recipient will be inducted into the TXMMA Hall of Fame.

Last Year’s Winner – Saekson Janjira

2012 Lifetime Achievement Award Finalists

► Dickie Cole / Greg Alvarez – TDLR Combative Sports Senior Administrators.

► Guy Mezger – Veteran fighter / trainer. Former president of HDNet Fights.

► Rick Blalock – Longtime referee and instructor.

► Saul Soliz – long-time trainer / promoter.

► Steve Armstrong – long-time state official / promoter.

► Tim Mousel – long-time trainer and originator of the Defend.Net forums.

CLICK HERE TO VOTE NOW!

POST FIGHT ANALYSIS BY MATT LITTLE.

XKO 10 took place Saturday, April 9th this was my first event to cover under this promotion. While XKO is considered a “small show” when compared to the larger organizations of Strikeforce and the UFC, they did not disappoint in the slightest. The show was run very well. The sound, video, and lighting were all top notch. Replays and action during the fights were made available on screens for viewers that may not have a good angle of the action. The scheduled fights were run seamlessly throughout the night. There were no unnecessary lags between bouts that plague many promotions. The matchmakers did a great job of pairing up the fights as most were very competitive and offered a variety of exciting finishes for the fans in attendance. That said I have to say thank you to XKO for putting on a great event and I look forward to covering more in the future.
The main event, featured Chris Jones (Mohler Jiu-Jitsu) defending his 155lb title against Chris Pecero (American Revolution MMA) based out of Corpus Christi. This turned out to be a very technical fight (scheduled for 5 rounds) and after the second round had me wondering if we were looking at a fight that would go into the later rounds. Each fighter had good opportunities throughout the bout but eventually a big kick landed for Jones early in round 3 which backed Pecero up and visibly had hurt him. Jones did an excellent job of following up and landing punches which drew a TKO stoppage by the referee. It seemed like a premature stoppage as Pecero still had his hands up and was defending. There is no doubt he was hurt but it would have been nice to see a more conclusive finish for Jones and the opportunity for Pecero to recover even on somewhat shaky legs.
Former WEC and UFC veteran Jake Rosholt is looking to get back into the bigger shows again and took another step in that direction after winning a TKO victory over Brandon McDowell early in the first round. McDowell is a local fighter based in Austin that is one of the most seasoned MMA veterans to date. Unfortunately, his experience wasn’t enough to overcome Rosholt’s pedigree. Rosholt is simply on another level and should be back with a major promotion before too long.
Steven Peterson (North Dallas MMA) and Douglas Frey (The Gym) put on one of the best local fights I have seen in a long time. This fight took place at Bantamweight (135lbs) and was for the XKO belt. The upper hand swung both ways multiple times throughout the fight. As the fight entered the 3rd and 4th rounds it was obvious that each fighter were showing signs of wear; both had endured punishment but seemed ready for 5 full rounds. About midway through the 4th round Peterson was on his knees attempting to get up and Frey held him in a Muay Thai clinch. Frey measured for a big knee to finish the fight and hit Peterson hard. The referee dove in to halt the action as it appeared to have been an illegal knee to the head since Peterson was grounded. Replays sparked controversy and the crowd was not pleased. Peterson was deemed unable to continue by cage side doctors so the fight went to the judges’ scorecards. The scores were as follows: 38-38, 39-38, & 39-37 giving Steven Peterson the unanimous decision and the Bantamweight belt. It is unfortunate that the fight ended this way as both fighters put on a war and everyone deserved a better, more conclusive outcome. I have no doubt that we will see a rematch in the near future which could easily headline an XKO card.
JJ Holmes (Mohler Jiu-Jitsu 1-0) took on Hayward Charles who was making his pro debut. Charles turned out to be a very game opponent for Holmes. Holmes finished the fight in the 2nd round with elbows that forced a stoppage by the referee. Holmes looked good and was tested as he was positionally put in a couple of bad spots throughout the fight. If he can continue to develop as an MMA fighter anywhere near the level of his grappling pedigree, I think we will see him fighting in big promotions down the road.
Alex Russ (The Gym) impressed against Frank Ortega (Elite MMA). Russ came out with a high level of intensity and seemed determined to run right through Ortega. Russ finished Ortega in the 2nd round with a guillotine choke that forces the tap and improves his record to 3-0.
Other bouts on the card:
Faez Miraki (Ironside MMA Pro Debut) wins by unanimous decision over Elijah (Kingdom MMA Pro Debut)
Moises Diaz (The Gym) wins via TKO in the 1st round over Chris Sellers (Texas Fighting Syndicate)
Roy Spoon (Octagon MMA) wins by unanimous decision over Brandon Smith (Star Jiu-Jitsu)
Randy Villarreal (Phalanx MMA) wins by RNC in the 1st round over Mike Sierra (The Gym)

-Matt Little is currently a blue belt under JD Shelley at North Dallas Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (NDBJJ) and an MMA writer.

As a part of the ongoing “A Fighter’s Perspective” series, NDBJJ/MMA fighter Kris Bickham interviewed Ryan Larson as he puts the finishing touches on his preparations for the Strikeforce Challengers 14 event in Cedar Park. Kris is the XFC Middleweight title holder and is an assistant instructor and purple belt under JD Shelley.

Only in this state…can it be 80 degrees outside until then the world stops for a weeklong freeze. While most of you are playing xbox or watching movies at home- these two fighters’ worlds revolve around the preparation for war. On the 18th of February one of our very own will be representing Texas in Strikeforce Challengers 14. This is good for Texas, and even better for BJJ Brown belt Ryan Larson, as there is a lot to gain, fighting in such a popular production. Larson faces a 10-2 Erik Apple. Apple has powerful strikes, and I don’t mean just hands, as well as quite a few wins by submission. On Friday I had a chance to ask him a few questions about the upcoming bout.

-Are you still training with Rodrigo and Pete Spratt? Is there anyone else you’d like to thank for this camp?

Rodrigo’s gym is my base in San Antonio. For this fight I will have spent 2 months training at Jackson’s MMA in Albuquerque. Also, thanks to everyone who has worked with me over the years training partners, coaches, and friends.

-Not too long ago, you were promoted to brown belt. How has training in jiu-jitsu been going , any plans for competition?

A little over a year ago, I received my brown belt from Rodrigo Pinheiro. For the mean while BJJ training/competition is on hold, as MMA training has been my primary focus.

- Do you like to watch film of your opponent? What do you know about your opponent thus far?

Watching tape is always something I do. Erik is a well rounded veteran fighter that has a powerful style.

-How do you feel about stepping up to a production as popular as (Strikeforce)?

Having the opportunity to compete in an organization like Strikeforce is very motivating. This is the big leagues, and I feel it has some of the best fighters in the world.

-With this opponent in mind, have you deviated from your regular training at all?

I was already out in New Mexico when I was offered the fight, so I continued my stay here. This camp has been the most focused for me, and I am excited to see the result.

-Who do you see as the biggest competition, fighting in the new promotion?

There are so many guys in the division, but right now Erik Apple is my only concern.

-Do you feel that you have improved since your last fight?
Absolutely, in every way possible.

-In your mind, how do you see the fight going, and how do you think your skill set with play with your opponents?

I am expecting a high pace with a tough opponent. We have seen his tendencies, and we are confident that I can win this fight several ways.

-Is there anything you’d like to say?

Come support this show in Cedar Park (Austin) Feb 18th. Help bring more shows this caliber to Texas! Thanks to my sponsors, friends, and family.

JD Shelley’s black belt in action against Macaco

by Ivan Trindade — December 6, 2010

GMA member JD Shelley, leader of North Dallas MMA, is proud of one of his pupils.

Shelley, who recently became two times World No-Gi champion, tells us in his Facebook page that his first black belt Hector Munoz prooved to have all the qualities of a great champion.

“Munoz was asked at the last minute to be in a No-Gi superfight against Brazilian Jorge Patino “Macaco” at the Grapplers World War event. He was prepared to fight in his category but did not back down and faced a 200+lb Macaco weighting only 167lb.”

Macaco ended up winning the fight, but Munoz came out of the bout also victorious for his sportmanship and warrior spirit.

Congrats to Shelley and Munoz for representing the true spirit of BJJ.

For more info, go to ndbjj.com

Here is the video of the fight:

graciemag.com

Another heroic effort from involving a member of our Texas Mixed Martial Arts community took place recently all the way around the globe as part-time Austin, TX resident Roger Huerta was involved in another incident, saving a young child from drowning in a near-death experience.

As first reported by fellow MMA Fighter and Thailand resident Ray Elbe via the Underground, and shared to the community by JD Shelley of North Dallas BJJ, Huerta was in Thailand training Muay-Thai for his Bellator fight against Pat Curran when this all went down.

The story unfolded as Roger Huerta was enjoying the beautiful beaches of Thailand in between training sessions. While swimming on the south side of Phuket, “El Matador” noticed a small girl caught under the tidal currents and rescued her, performing CPR until paramedics arrived. According to the report, this (arrival of emergency personnel) can sometimes take a very long time, limiting victims’ odds for survival unless someone equipped to perform emergency medical assistance is there for the victim.

“I never really knew him before his trips to Tiger Muay Thai but I can honestly say he is one of the most humble down-to-earth guys in the fight game.” Ray Elbe says of Mr. Huerta. Between this and another recent situation in which Huerta risked himself to save victims in need, it would sure seem “El Matador” can help people outside the cage just as much as he can hurt his opponents in competition.

The MMA community would be best served to take this example of courage from Huerta as an example of what our MMA fighters and Texans are made of. Well done Roger!

]]> http://www.txmma.com/austin-resident-and-former-ufcf-ighter-roger-huerta-training-in-thailand-saves-child-from-drowning/feed/ 0 http://www.txmma.com/dallas-golden-gloves-boxing-program-free-kids-fitness-program/ http://www.txmma.com/dallas-golden-gloves-boxing-program-free-kids-fitness-program/#comments Tue, 30 Nov 2010 05:47:22 +0000 PanAmSilver http://www.txmma.com/?p=6021

The Texas Gladiators Academy is offering its FREE 8 Week Winter Training Program in preparation for the 2011 Dallas Golden Gloves competition January 24, 2011. Training is FREE for ages 8-13….and class times are from 3:30-5:30, Mon-Fri. The Gladiator Academy is the 2010 Dallas Golden Gloves “Team” Champions in their division. There are requirements to being a part of this competition program, such as passing grades in school and community service, etc. The program is a FREE kids Boxing Program for Ages 8-13 and this program is part of our Keep Kids Off the Streets Program which includes other Fitness activities, such as Basketball, weightlifting, soccer, etc. Training is 5x a week M-F. Interested participants should contact:

www.TexasGladiators.com
Coach@DallasJiuJitsu.com
10310 Plano Rd. # E.
214-240-5988

]]> http://www.txmma.com/dallas-golden-gloves-boxing-program-free-kids-fitness-program/feed/ 0 http://www.txmma.com/alamo-showdown-july-17th/ http://www.txmma.com/alamo-showdown-july-17th/#comments Tue, 11 May 2010 07:40:10 +0000 randygalindo http://www.txmma.com/?p=2806 Its on  the big fight on July 17, at Municipal Auditorium in San Antonio TX..San Antonio Vs San Antonio…to local fighter AARON ROSA vs JAY PECHE..the main event ..other local fighters you dont want to miss..Billy Buch ..Big Richard Odoms,,Gilbert Jimenez..54 year Jeff Bonugli..Aaron LanFranco..Marciel Lumakang..10 hard fights that night….This is the HOTTEST FIGHT THIS YEAR..get your tickets now at Ticketmaster.com use the password ABG..this  FIGHT WILL SELL OUT FAST..get then now..

]]> http://www.txmma.com/alamo-showdown-july-17th/feed/ 2 http://www.txmma.com/double-elimination-gi-tournament-may-15th/ http://www.txmma.com/double-elimination-gi-tournament-may-15th/#comments Thu, 06 May 2010 17:20:21 +0000 txbjjevents http://www.txmma.com/?p=2770 May 15th 2010

Adult Gi Teens Gi Kids Gi Double Elimination!

Prizes for Absolute Champions!

Pre-Registration is $39 if payment received by May 7th. After May 7th fee is $50.

Spectator fee: $5 (adults), kids FREE!

Early Weigh ins Friday 5/14 3pm-7pm

Peak Performance 6455 Hilltop Rd North Richland Hills, TX 76180 Tournament Location

Sat Feb 15th: Travis Lutter BJJ Academy 1901 Windsor Place, Ft Worth 76120

http://www.mapquest.com/maps?city=Fort+Worth&state=TX&address=1901+Windsor+Place

Start Times: Same Day Registration and Weigh ins 8am-8:45am

Kids 9am

Teens 10am

Adult Novice White Belt 11am

Adult White Belt over 6 Months 11:30am

Adult Blue Belt 12pm

Adult Purple Belt 1pm

More information and registration at http://www.strongvon.com/txbjjgi

WEIGHT CLASSES Men & Men Master Gi Novice White Belt, White Belt, Blue Belt and Purple Belt

0-135 lbs

136-149.9 lbs

150-165 lbs

166-180 lbs

181-195 lbs

196-210 lbs

211-229 lbs

230+ lbs

Women GI

0-119.9 lbs

120-139.9 lbs

140-159.9 lbs

160+ lbs

Teen GI 13-17 yrs

Novice (0-6 months)

Beginner (7months-1yr)

Intermediate (1yr-2yrs)

Advanced (Over 2 years)

0-105 lbs

106-120 lbs

121-135 lbs

136-150 lbs

151-160- lbs

161+ lbs

Children GI 4-12 yr

Novice (0-6 months)

Beginner (7months-1yr)

Intermediate (1yr-2yrs)

Advanced (Over 2 years)

0-50 lbs

51-60 lbs

61-70 lbs

71-80 lbs

81-90 lbs

91-100 lbs

101-110

110+ lbs

Thanks for your support! TXBJJ LLC http://www.strongvon.com/txbjjgi

]]> http://www.txmma.com/double-elimination-gi-tournament-may-15th/feed/ 2 http://www.txmma.com/fighterstrainers-wanted/ http://www.txmma.com/fighterstrainers-wanted/#comments Fri, 30 Apr 2010 02:01:57 +0000 lonestarbna http://www.txmma.com/?p=2720 We are looking for competitive fighters looking to teach and instruct part time in the Keller/Ft.Worth area.  If you’re a full time fighter without the time for a full time job or just need to supplement your income, please send you resume or bio to info@lonestar-boxing.com

Pro fight records a definite plus.  Please document fight dates and locations.

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