QUEEN MMA MEDIA 2017 PRO – WMMA ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

(QUEEN MMA MEDIA) – Queen MMA Media is proud to present the QUEEN MMA MEDIA 2017 WMMA Professional Athlete of the Year Award to Lindsey “Damsel” VanZandt. Lindsey has proven herself to be an exciting and dynamic atomweight in 2017.  She was selected due to her impressive three fight win streak in a four month period of time and her outstanding start as a professional.  VanZandt made her women’s mixed martial arts professional debut in July of 2017 with a second round TKO victory over Katie Saull at King of the Cage ‘Regulator’.  On September 30, 2017 Lindsey gained a dominating second round TKO win versus Rachel “The Black Widow” Sazoff at Maverick MMA 3.  Less than one month later on October 28, 2017 VanZandt continued her undefeated run as a professional with a three round split decision win against Bi “Killher Bee” Nguyen.  VanZandt mustered the split decision despite suffering a broken right hand early in the first round.  With a current professional record of 3 – 0 Lindsey has demonstrated a remarkable level of achievement, dedication, and success for a rookie WMMA pro athlete.  Congratulations to Lindsey VanZandt!

“The highlight of my year was definitely my win against Bi Nguyen and overcoming the injury in the first round because I was nobody compared to her and no one thought I was going to win so that was very exciting,” Lindsey “Damsel” VanZandt

The process of selecting the award recipient is not done via a popularity rating or fan supported votes.  Award recipients are selected based on performance, achievement, success, sportsmanship, dedication, courage, character, and heart.  Selections are decided by a panel of experienced individuals from within the industry and sport.

(QUEEN MMA MEDIA)

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“I want to test my power to manifest my desire into reality.  I’m addicted to that,” – HELEN PERALTA

By:  Thomas Vickers (MMA – Journalist)

QUEEN MMA MEDIA

(QUEEN MMA MEDIA) – Helen “Iansa” Peralta is set to make her women’s mixed martial arts pro debut On January 13, 2018 at Invicta Fighting Championships 27 at the historic Scottish Rite Temple, in Kansas City, Missouri.   The match is a scheduled strawweight (115 lbs) contest against Missouri native Jade “The Asian Sensation” Ripley.

“I don’t have much of a fight background,” explained Peralta.  “I trained some capoeira for a few years just for fun and I went to a few cardio boxing classes.”

Capoeira is a martial art rooted in afro-Brazilian culture that combines dance, acrobatics, and music.  It dates back to circa 16th century and is noted for its quick elaborate moves focusing on power, speed, and leverage, alongside a wide range of kicks and spins.

In September of 2016 Helen decided to enter a boxing tournament without any formal training and won.  “After the tournament someone told me that I should compete in boxing so I started training at SEDM Boxing Club.  The club was two hours from my house so I only made it two or three times a week,” she explained. Peralta went on to quickly collect an impressive 5 – 1 amateur boxing record. “Boxing is easy,” exclaimed Helen, who added she may consider pursuing it on a professional level in the future.

Peralta is twenty-nine years of age and fights out of Fairfield, Iowa.  Despite having a background with little organized martial arts instruction, Peralta’s natural fighting ability has produced an outstanding amateur record of 9 – 1, three amateur MMA titles, and a kickboxing title.  Her most recent amateur title conquest being the Tuff N Uff Flyweight (125 lbs) belt in November of 2017.  Peralta began her amateur MMA career in April of 2016 and in just twenty months has accumulated ten fights and is currently on a seven fight winning streak.  A lightning pace.  In 2017 Helen had four bouts in just a five month period.   She is a natural born fighter who always comes to fight.

“I have been training for two years and competing for a year and a half.  My record is due to the fact that I compete often.  Most fighters have some sort of martial arts background before they compete.  I do not.  I just wanted to give myself some time to learn some techniques and I used my amateur career as live sparing,” stated Peralta.

“Like the cold.  Merciless but righteous,” described Helen about herself as a fighter. “I’m one hundred percent sure I will be world champion,” she continued.  “I want to test my power to manifest my desire into reality.  I’m addicted to that,” answered Helen when asked by Queen MMA Media what feeds her desire to compete in the cage. “It is show time feeling.  I love being in the cage, I belong there,” she continued.

Peralta is eager and excited to make her MMA professional debut with the prestigious Invicta Fighting Championships.  “I have watched all of Invicta’s shows on UFC Fight Pass library.  I admire most of those girls and now I’m one of them,” she elaborated.

Peralta wields effective stand up in the cage.  She looks comfortable and confident during stand up exchanges and knows how to control space, find range, and land punches.  Helen is a patient puncher with decent movement who can land hard heavy shots.  She has a natural instinctive style, often displaying wide and looping punches that connect with considerable power and accuracy.  She is aware she must continue to grow as a fighter and has been focusing on ground work under the guidance of world class trainer Sergio Cunha.

The thirty year old Jade “The Asian Sensation” Ripley fights out of St. Joseph, Missouri and is a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.  Ripley will also be making her pro debut and brings the experience of an undefeated 6 – 0 amateur record with her into the cage on January 13, 2018.  Throughout her amateur career, despite having a said blue belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Jade seems to be content to slug it out with her opponents.  Ripley has a seemingly awkward punching style consisting of shifting, jerking, and swaying motions.  She can be aggressive and generally pushes forward with pawing jabs and quick straight punches.  Her darting tactics can be wild at times.  In past bouts she has shown she is willing to take one to give one and has displayed a respectably durable chin.  Ripley is a tough fighter and no doubt will show up ready to go.  However Peralta’s punching power very well may prove to be too great of a challenge for “The Asian Sensation” to overcome.

“I love stand up.  It is fun!  But I also feel confident on the ground,” explained Helen when asked by Queen MMA Media if she was prepared for Jade Ripley’s Brazilian Jiu Jitsu background and seemingly logical possibility of her focusing on trying to take the action to the mat.  “I am not sure what to expect from my opponent and I don’t intend to guess.  I see my hand raised at the end of the fight and I don’t expect it to go pass the first round,” finished Peralta.

The fight looks to be an exciting strawweight contest between two scrappy competitors.  Ripley may be in for a hard and sudden surprise if she elects to engage Peralta in a stand up showdown.

Bantamweight: Pannie Kianzad (8-2) vs. Sarah Kaufman (18-4, 1 NC)
Flyweight: Vanessa Porto (19-8) vs. Mariana Morais (12-5)
Strawweight: Sharon Jacobson (4-2) vs. Ashley Nichols (3-1)
Atomweight: Ashley Cummins (5-4) vs. Stephanie Alba (3-1, 1 NC)
Flyweight: Brogan Walker-Sanchez (4-0) vs. TBA
Featherweight: Felicia Spencer (3-0) vs. Akeela Al-Hameed (0-0)
Strawweight: Mallory Martin (1-2) vs. Tiffany Masters (2-1)
Atomweight: Melissa Wang (1-0) vs. Loma Lookboonmee (0-0)
Strawweight: Jade Ripley (0-0) vs. Helen Peralta (0-0)

Streams live and exclusively on UFC Fight Pass

(QUEEN MMA MEDIA)

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“I want to be a controlled chaos.” – Kay Hansen

By:  Thomas Vickers (MMA – Journalist)

QUEEN MMA MEDIA

(QUEEN MMA MEDIA) – Kay Hansen describes herself as being a very aggressive fighter.  “I’m not a point fighter nor am I crazy technical.  I want to be a controlled chaos,” explained Hansen.

Hansen entered the cage at Invicta FC 26 with an amateur record of 1 – 0.  Her amateur win having come in September of 2017 by way of first round KO/TKO of Cecillia Pedilla in a flyweight bout at Gladiator MMA Championships Series 3.  Most mixed martial arts athletes generally acquire a greater amount of amateur experience before seeking a go at the pros.  Kay carries a noticeable intensity and is far from the average MMA athlete.

“I train in all fields.  Not only do I practice all fields I also try and watch video of all fields as well,” she explained.  “I am a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, although I don’t really like putting emphasis on belts.  I try to do what’s best for my overall MMA game.” Kay felt she was ready to go pro.  “I train with the best and I’m always confident in my abilities,” she explained.  Hansen trains with ‘Team Punishment’ out of Huntington, California under former UFC light heavyweight champion and hall of fame inductee Tito Ortiz and alongside the current UFC Featherweight Champion Cris Cyborg.

“I always like to press the action.  I wasn’t surprised because I am always stepping in the cage looking for the fastest finish possible,” answered Hansen to Queen MMA Media’s question of if she was surprised with her quick finish victory in her professional debut.  Kay gained her pro debut win December 8, 2017 at Invicta FC 26 in Kansas City, Missouri with an impressive first round submission via armbar of Emilee Prince.  “Whether it was Emilee Prince or not, it would have been a finish,” continued a confident Hansen.  Not only did Kay achieve her first win as a professional, at eighteen years of age she also became the youngest fighter to ever compete under the Invicta Fighting Championships banner.

“I had a path planned ever since I started fighting and Invicta has always been a part of it,” replied Hansen when asked by Queen MMA Media if she had been surprised by the Invicta FC opportunity.

Kay Hansen is an extremely determined competitor who has clearly made a big splash in the Invicta FC promotion.  She plans to continue competing at strawweight and from what she has demonstrated so far will most likely be a dynamic addition.  Kay looks to be an exciting fighter to watch in the Invicta FC strawweight division.

“I want to be at the top.  Whatever it takes to get there,” stated Hansen.

(QUEEN MMA MEDIA)

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Cover photograph by Invicta FC

 

“I feel there isn’t good or bad, just experiences in different situations,” – Shamir “Hella Kitty” Peshewa

By:  Thomas Vickers (MMA – Journalist)

QUEEN MMA MEDIA

(QUEEN MMA MEDIA) – Over the years the sport of women’s mixed martial arts has produced champions, superstars, and popular athletes.  Amidst all the talent it is important to remember there would be no competitive amateur or professional WMMA if there were no tough gamey fighters eager to jump at the challenge.  Each athlete helping to craft, shape, and develop what has come to be known as women’s mixed martial arts.  There would be no growing sport if it were not for the hardworking competitors who always give it one hundred percent.

Shamir “Hella Kitty” Peshewa is one of those tough hardworking gladiators.  She is the type of individual that does not shy away from a challenge.  For seven years Shamir played for the Hard Knox Rollergirls, a nationally ranked roller derby team out of Knoxville, Tennessee.

“My teammates gave me the nickname (Hella Kitty) because of how sweet I looked but how destructive and violent I was on the track,” explained Shamir when asked by Queen MMA Media as to how she acquired the nickname “Hella Kitty.”

Shamir Peshewa began training in November of 2012 and started competing in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in March of 2013.  She is currently a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and holds dozens of metals.

“The challenge it represents to me.  It’s mentally and physically a chess game,” answered Shamir to the question what she enjoyed most about competing in amateur MMA.  “I love competition and I wanted to test myself,” she replied when asked what brought her to the cage.

The thirty-two year old Shamir is a courageous combatant who fights out of Tennessee and hosts a 4 – 5 amateur record.  During her near four year amateur career she has fought under several promotional banners including; Virginia Cage Fighting Championships, Apex Fights, Valor Fights, and Premier FC.  She is satisfied with her amateur MMA experience.  “I feel there isn’t good or bad, just experiences in different situations,” she explained.  Shamir describes herself as a gritty fighter.  Win or lose she is someone who gives every ounce of themselves.  Shamir always enjoys meeting new fans and giving autographs when requested.  It is easy to conclude that fans are drawn to her honest down to earth personality.

The amateur level is a place for gaining experience.  It is where a fighter tests newly learned skills, techniques, and strategies.  Often a fighter’s amateur record does not always reflect the whole story.

“My first loss my coach Eric Turner told me I had to learn to see things evenly.  He quoted a poem by Rudyard Kipling ‘IF’ and that really changed my mind set.  It was a big turning point for me as a human and athlete,” Shamir replied to Queen MMA Media when asked about her highest moments as an amateur.

Often in sport much like in life, great gains can and do come from loss.  Valuable lessons are often found in our shortfalls.  Through failure we learn to succeed. Shamir’s last amateur fight was in October of 2017 against Chelsea McCoy for the Virginia Cage Fighting Championships vacant featherweight title belt.  Despite losing via unanimous decision Shamir continues to push forward.  Like most fighters Shamir’s skill set and fight game are always evolving.  He coaches are continuously expanding her knowledge.  “At first I only knew one game, and one way to respond with a small skill set,” explained Shamir.  “We are never comfortable in our skill set, always hustling to learn.”

Shamir Peshewa has fought at both featherweight (145 lbs) and bantamweight (135 lbs) during her amateur career.  “I can make bantamweight but because of pure muscle mass I need a month notice or so, at featherweight I can make weight in around a week,” explained Peshewa.  “I work with Eddie Reymond of Eddie’s Health Shoppe who is my nutritionist.  I’ve always taken short notice fights.  For me I’ve never been able to be picky about opportunities,” she continued.

The hardworking Shamir is confidently moving in the direction of her next big challenge and with the guidance of her management ‘Underdog MMA Management’ is pushing for a pro debut in early January of 2018.

QUEEN MMA MEDIA Q&A with SHAMIR “HELLA KITTY” PESHEWA 

QUEEN MMA MEDIA – Can you share your lowest moments as an amateur WMMA athlete?

SHAMIR PESHEWA – “I think everyone who has ever been driven to a great calling has moments of pure insanity, where they wonder if the path they walk is actually the right one.  I’ve fought with a torn hamstring and broken bones and have had set backs.  So yes, there have been some rough points, but I believe they have strengthened me and helped me become a better person, and only driven me closer to my calling.”

QUEEN MMA MEDIA – Who or what has been your biggest inspiration in your MMA experience? Why?

SHAMIR PESHEWA – “Creating stronger more confident people in our society and world. There is something incredibly humbling and beautiful about MMA / BJJ. This makes you realize you can take it and dish it out.  You are not helpless, or weak.  You’re a warrior.  I think everyone needs to know that about themselves.”

QUEEN MMA MEDIA – When you first began your amateur MMA journey did you have a specific goal?

SHAMIR PESHEWA – “My goal from my first fight has been to fight for the Invicta FC promotion.  I absolutely adore Shannon Knapp and her crew.  I love how its all women for women.  My dream is to help make the promotion bigger and better.”

QUEEN MMA MEDIA – Do you have any advice you would or could share with or offer another female who is considering an amateur experience in MMA?

SHAMIR PESHEWA – “I’d tell them to find a coach they trust and train six days a week.  It isn’t an easy sport, but the rewards are bountiful.  The self confidence, mental strength and overall health you find is amazing.”

QUEEN MMA MEDIA – Looking back over your almost four years as an amateur is there anything you would have changed or have done differently if you could?

SHAMIR PESHEWA – “No.  This is my journey.”

“I have interviewed countless athletes over the years.  Shamir is an example of the outstanding quality of hardworking individuals in women’s mixed martial arts today. She shines with intelligence, her kindness is evident, and she is truly a natural ambassador for the sport.” – Thomas Vickers (QUEEN MMA MEDIA)

(QUEEN MMA MEDIA)

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Cover Photograph by Terry Mercer

“Being a pro in this sport has been my dream since I was eleven years old,” – Emilee Prince

By :  Thomas Vickers (MMA – Journalist)

QUEEN MMA MEDIA

(QUEEN MMA MEDIA) – Emilee Prince fights out of Tennessee and is a black belt in both Tae Kwon Do and Judo.  “Those credentials have been funneled into a unique style cultivated by my coach Eric Turner,” explains Emilee Prince.  “This style is one that is intelligent and built for me.”

Prince was recently called up on short notice for a professional strawweight match under the prestigious Invicta Fighting Championships banner.  The bout is being added to an already talent studded Invicta FC – 26 fight card scheduled for December 8, 2017.

“I was surprised by the timing of this call, only because of how soon,” stated Prince to Queen MMA Media.  “Being a pro in this sport has been my dream since I was eleven years old.”

Emilee recently gave up her nursing career to pursue her WMMA goal full heartedly.  Her dedication, devotion, and commitment to her craft is obvious.  She was not surprised to receive the call and believed the call was going to happen eventually.  “I just feel blessed that it was sooner rather than later,” adds Prince.

Emilee has produced a 2 – 3 amateur WMMA record.  Her Strawweight (115 lbs) match up against Kay Hansen on December 8, 2017 at Invicta FC – 26 will be her professional debut.  It is impressive for a WMMA competitor to debut on a professional level in the Invicta organization.  This would seem to indicate Prince already carries exceptional skills and well polished talent. “My coaches have treated me like a pro from day one,” explains Prince.

Emilee’s last bout was a victory in the amateur strawweight division, a first round submission on October 14, 2017 at Virginia Cage Fighting Championships against an undefeated Jonna Wood.

Prince’s opponent Kay Hansen will also be making her WMMA professional debut.  Hansen fights out of Whittier, California and has compiled a 1 – 0 record as an amateur having defeated Cecilia Padilla September 23, 2017 at Gladiator MMA Championship Series 3.  Hansen stopped Padilla with a first round TKO for the vacant amateur Gladiator MMA flyweight title.    Prince does not want anyone to perceive a lack of experience in her fight game.  She is quick to explain that she makes up for any possible perceptions of lacking in experience with extreme dedication.  “I put in the work it takes both inside the gym and outside the gym,” Prince adds with confidence.

“I know I come from one of the best MMA gyms in the southeast area, so I am sure that had a part to play in this match up,” answered Prince to Queen MMA Media’s question of how such an amazing opportunity like a pro debut in Invicta FC could come her way.  “I only know that when my coaches called with the news I was and still am extremely excited,” she continued.

Emilee is not concerned about the short notice of the contest against Kay Hansen.  “This type of short notice is why me and my teammates at Knoxville Martial Arts Academy live by the saying “Stay ready so you don’t have to get ready,” Emilee explains.  “Short notice or not I am always ready and willing to go do my thing in the cage.  This opportunity is phenomenal and I am thrilled to become a part of the best platform that women’s MMA has to offer.”

Emilee Prince stands at the doorway of her professional women’s mixed martial arts career ready to capitalize on an amazing opportunity.  She is boldly prepared to make dreams come to life.

INVICTA FC – 26 (fight card)

FLYWEIGHT TITLE – Jennifer Maia (14 – 4 – 1)     VS       Aga Niedzwiedz (10 – 0)

STRAWWEIGHT – Kaline Medeiros (8 – 5)            VS       Mackenzie Dern (4 – 0)

STRAWWEIGHT – Janaisa Morandin (9 – 1)           VS       Kinberly Novaes (9 – 3)

FLYWEIGHT – Vanessa Porto (18 – 8)                    VS       Milana Dudieva (11 – 6)

STRAWWEIGHT – Amy Montenegro (8 – 2)          VS       Virna Jandiroba (11 – 0)

ATOMWEIGHT – Amber Brown (6 – 4)                  VS       Tessa Simpson (5 – 2)

FLYWEIGHT – Christine Ferea (1 – 1)                     VS       Karina Rodriguez (5 – 2)

STRAWWEIGHT – Emilee Prince (0 – 0)                VS       Kay Hansen (0 – 0)

(QUEEN MMA MEDIA)

Cover photograph by Rick Elliot

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“2018 will be the year of the Hurricane Kid.” – Jamie “Hurricane Kid” Herrington

By:  Thomas Vickers (MMA – Journalist)

QUEEN MMA MEDIA 

(QUEEN MMA MEDIA) – Jamie “Hurricane Kid” Herrington fights out of Fort St. John, British Columbia, Canada.  She has strong wrestling skills and brings a tremendous amount of aggressiveness into the cage.  The Canadian grappler is affiliated with Alliance Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and currently holds a blue belt.

Much like her nickname states, the “Hurricane Kid” is a relentless and tenacious storm that dominates opponents with a smothering ground game.   “I come from fifteen years of freestyle wrestling,” explained Herrington.  “Grinding hard has been my entire life, on and off the mat.”

Jamie’s last fight was in July of 2015 at the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) world championship against Ireland born Sinead “KO” Kavanagh.  It was a fight that proved Herrington to be more than Kavanagh could handle.  Herrington’s wrestling overwhelmed Kavanagh throughout the match resulting in a third round KO/TKO stoppage.  Shortly after the the match, the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation ruled the bout a no contest due to alleged doping violations.

Herrington explained to Queen MMA Media she battled the (IMMAF) decision for a year.  “They made me an example case and suspended me for four years,” continued Herrington.  Over two years later in September of 2017 Canada overturned the suspension.   An eager Herrington obtained a license in British Columbia, Canada shortly after and plans to pro debut at 145 lbs.

With an amateur career that has yielded a perfect 6 – 0, Herrington has continued to train hard during her time away from the competitive side of the sport. “IMMAF may have taken away two years of my life, but it will not defeat me in going the distance,” explained The “Hurricane Kid” to Queen MMA Media inquiring if she seen herself pursuing a pro debut.  “I have big plans for the upcoming year,” she continued with confidence.

Jamie is looking to return to the cage in British Columbia, Canada on a professional level as early as February or March of next year.  The twenty-six year old Herrington is determined to bounce back from the two year set back and believes 2018 will be the year of The “Hurricane Kid”.

From the time of Sinead “KO” Kavangh’s last amateur fight, a third round KO/TKO loss versus Herrington that was later ruled a no contest back in 2015, the hard fighting Irish slugger has built a decent 5 – 2 professional WMMA record.  Kavanagh has become what many see to be a quality Bellator WMMA featherweight.  In August of 2017 Kavanagh lost a split decision to Arlene Blencowe at Bellator 182.  The same Arlene Blencowe who is set to fight a rematch against Julia Budd the current reigning Bellator Featherweight World Champion December 1st of this year.  Kavangh recently gained a win November 10, 2017 at Bellator 187 with an impressive first round KO/TKO of Maria Casanova.

Herrington’s dominating stoppage of Kavangh only a couple years earlier in their amateur match may very well be a clear indicator of the level of top quality the “Hurricane Kid” brings.

“I’d like to consider myself good enough to impress the people behind UFC, Bellator, and even Invicta,” answered Herrington, when asked by Queen MMA Media how she seen herself stacking up to the current professional WMMA featherweights.  “For the last two years I have been sitting and watching fellow mates rise and accomplish the dreams that I hold myself, has been incredible.”

Jamie explains that just like any young athlete growing up wanting to make it in the big leagues “it’s a game until you make it.”

“I know I have the heart and ability to play the game of MMA,” explains the “Hurricane Kid”.  Herrington believes that finding the help and opportunity to continue her growth as a combat competitor is just around the corner.

“Combat sport has been my life.  It has kept me out of trouble.  It has given me a perspective on life to never stop.  Work hard for what you want and never let anything get in the way,” stated “The Hurricane Kid”.   With each passing day Herrington moves closer to showing the pro WMMA world what she is all about.

“In the mean time it’s the hard work and dedication that are most important.  You can’t live in a house unless you build it first.” – “Hurricane Kid” Herrington.

Despite the loss of two years Herrington seems determined to surge back.  She looks to return with a wider arsenal.  “I have been in the boxing gym for the last year,” answered Herrington to Queen MMA Media’s question of if she had plans of expanding her offensive striking skills.  “There’s a lot to learn in that sport and I really do enjoy it,” she continued.  The “Hurricane Kid” already wields an extremely potent ground attack.   The addition of boxing and footwork knowledge should elevate her already respectable stand up game to a new level.

As the “Hurricane Kid” sets a course towards the professional world of WMMA there is no doubt the storm is increasing in intensity.

(QUEEN MMA MEDIA)

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“Fight me now Julia Budd after a real fight camp and see what happens.” – Gabby Holloway (Bellator Featherweight)

By:  Thomas Vickers (MMA – Journalist)

QUEEN MMA MEDIA

(QUEEN MMA MEDIA) – Gabrielle “Gabanator” Holloway is hungry for the Bellator Featherweight Title Belt.  She is considerably a more formidable opponent than her 6 – 5 pro record displays.  Gabby produced an outstanding 7 – 0 amateur record before turning pro in August of 2012.  Over the past five and a half years her professional WMMA career has had its ups and downs.  The twenty-seven year old “Gabanator” is currently ranked 11^th among WMMA featherweights in the world by Queen MMA Media.   Gabby is a tough competitor who trains out of Evolve Academy, and like most fighters is growing with every bout.

On December 1, 2017 Arlene “Angerfist” Blencowe is scheduled to fight Julia “The Jewel” Budd, the current reigning Bellator Featherweight title holder.  Julia Budd won the inaugural Bellator featherweight world title at Bellator 174 in March of 2017 with a 4th round TKO victory over Marloes “Rumina” Coenen.  Blencowe is presently ranked 12^th among the WMMA featherweights in the world by Queen MMA Media.

Gabby Holloway had lost a close split decision to Arlene Blencowe at Bellator 146 back in April of 2015.  Some WMMA fans say the decision could have gone one way or the other. Now nearly three years later things are shifting in a positive direction for the “Gabanator”.  Holloway’s last fight was a big win at Bellator 174 in March of 2017 over Alexis Dufresne by way of a 2^nd round TKO.  What made Gabby’s win so impressive was not only the decisive finish over a highly respected Bellator featherweight, but the fact that Dufresne was coming off a massive victory of her own,  a win by way of 1^st round submission over Marloes “Rumina” Coenen at Bellator 155 in May of 2016.

Bellator Featherweight champion Julia Budd is an intimidating fighter who always enters the cage in tremendous physical condition.  Her only losses where almost six years ago against Amanda Nunes and Ronda Rousey, both champion level opponents. Budd is an aggressive and athletic top level combatant who is currently considered the number two WMMA featherweight in the world by Queen MMA Media.

“I really believe if I get enough time to train I could beat Julia Budd,” explains Holloway to Queen MMA Media.

Holloway clearly has her eyes on the Bellator Featherweight title belt.  According to Holloway the last time she fought Julia Budd, the now current Bellator 145 pound champion it was on a ten day notice.  Gabby lost the match via decision, but clearly welcomes an opportunity for a rematch.

“The last chick I fought on Bellator was the number one contender.  I beat her so why didn’t I get the title shot?” states Gabby to Queen MMA Media referring to her TKO victory against Dufresne.

“Fight me now Julia Budd after a real fight camp and see what happens.  You couldn’t finish me on ten days notice.  What will happen to you now after a full fight camp?” exclaimed Holloway in a November 2, 2017 facebook post.

With the title belt being less than a year old Bellator continues to develop the roster of their WMMA featherweight division.  Many WMMA critics see the Bellator featherweight division as being competitive and evenly matched.  Julia Budd defeated Arlene Blencowe with a three round majority decision at Bellator 162 in October of 2016.  Despite Blencowe being worthy opposition, Budd is on an eight fight winning streak and will most likely control the action in the rematch and come out with the victory.  With Blencowe receiving a rematch with Budd it is understandable for Holloway to question as to why she does not get the same opportunity.

Regardless of who wins between Budd and Blencowe, it is not out of the question to consider Holloway a viably potential opponent and a quality contender who seems quite ready to meet the winner in the cage.

(QUEEN MMA MEDIA)

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“My dad enjoys watching his little girl whoop some ass in the cage.” – Serena DeJesus “The Southpaw Outlaw”

By:  Thomas Vickers (MMA – Journalist)

QUEEN MMA MEDIA

(QUEEN MMA MEDIA) – Serena is from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.  She began training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai at a local gym shortly after graduating from high school.  Serena is a student of boxing and actively trains in wrestling.  At the age of only twenty-five years old she has already gained an impressive collection of accomplishments.  These achievements include; a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, having an undefeated 2 – 0 record in Muay Thai, hosting an impressive WMMA amateur record of 5 – 1, and being the current reigning TUFF-N-UFF Bantamweight champion.

The TUFF-N-UFF promotion has been based in Las Vegas, Nevada since it’s forming in 1994.  Over the years the promotion has crafted a reputation as a high quality development league for the world popular UFC and the premier woman’s mixed martial arts Invicta Fighting Championships.  TUFF-N-UFF has assisted in the development of numerous outstanding MMA athletes.  Such combat competitors include the former Invicta Fighting Championships Bantamweight champion Tonya “Triple Threat” Evinger and former UFC Bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey.

The “Southpaw Outlaw” is clearly a fighter, but not an average fighter by any measure.  Serena has been a fighter for as long as she can remember.  Sometimes being a fighter involves much more than just punching, kicking, and twisting arms.  Sometimes the battle is not as simple as a scheduled three round match up in the cage.  Sometimes it is on a daily basis and on a personal level.  Serena was diagnosed with autism at the age of thirteen years old.

Serena compares her struggles to the iconic symbol of Asperger’s Syndrome ‘a puzzle piece.’  Much like that single piece she has been searching for the place it fits.  “Well I have friends finally thanks to fighting.  It helps me socialize with teammates and through that I find common interests,” explains Serena when asked by Queen MMA Media how the MMA community and life style has given her a home for her ‘puzzle piece’.

Serena has become part of a team, part of something larger than herself, something that allows her to be an active participant.  It has provided her a place to grow and find common bonds with others.  The study and practice of mixed martial arts has provided Serena with a remedy she could not seem to find any place else.  The training helps her deal with the challenges of Asperger’s Syndrome.  Rather than play the role of victim or a product of an unlucky circumstance as many generally elect to do, “The Southpaw Outlaw” has become a powerful advocate for creating awareness and education about autism.

Serena meets her challenges head on proving everyday that an autistic person can build dedication, concentration, and determination.  ‘The Southpaw Outlaw’ strives to become an inspiration to autistic children.  Helping them to understand they can set goals and reach for them with a real passion.  Serena is an example of how not only can a person overcome an obstacle but become a stronger individual because of it.

 

When you watch Serena in the cage you quickly realize she is far from disadvantaged. Her struggles seem almost impossible to notice.  What you do see is a fighter who is evolving with every fight.  You see an accomplished WMMA amateur who has the determination and heart to turn pro.  Serena has been a fan of the popular professional WMMA athlete Roxanne “The Happy Warrior” Modafferi.

“Like myself she was a nerdy type who also kicked ass.  In school I was nerdy but also athletic.  People I knew were athletic or nerdy, never both,” explains Serena to Queen MMA Media when asked how her friendship with “The Happy Warrior” had sprouted.

Roxanne Modafferi is an accomplished WMMA veteran who has acquired an impressive twenty-one victories as a professional.  With years of experience Modafferi is a legitimate upper top ten world class flyweight.  In 2014 Serena reached out to Roxanne who has made her home at Syndicate MMA in Las Vegas, Nevada.  “We just clicked,” Serena continued.  “We both loved anime and training and she has come to feel like a big sister to me in a way.”

Serena is still evolving as a fighter and is well aware of the leap in competition from amateur to professional.  “The Southpaw Outlaw” continues to expand her skill set and is currently looking into incorporating Tae Kwon Do kicks in an effort to increase the dimensions of her already strong arsenal.  There is no question Serena is one tough bantamweight to keep an eye on.  Do not be surprised to see her in a pro debut sometime soon.

QUEEN MMA MEDIA Q&A With Standout amateur Bantamweight Serena “The Southpaw Outlaw” DeJesus

QUEEN MMA MEDIA – I understand you watched a lot of UFC, Pride, Elite XC, Strikeforce, and other mixed martial arts promotions with your dad when you had been young.  Did you ever expect to be where you are today, a 5 – 1 amateur MMA athlete?  

SERENA DEJESUS – “I had a feeling eventually I would find myself somewhere in the fight game.  However I am shocked by where I am now and I have been enjoying the journey so far.”

QUEEN MMA MEDIA – Did your dad ever imagine his daughter would be fighting in a cage?  What does he think about your amateur career, martial arts accomplishments, and ability to excel at the amateur level?  

SERENA DEJESUS – “My dad enjoys watching his little girl whoop some ass in the cage. He’s very happy with my growth through the good and bad. He also believes that with the way I train I can be a champion at the pro levels wherever it takes me.”

QUEEN MMA MEDIA – If possible can you tell me the one thing about Brazilian Jiu Jitsu that has changed or affected your life the most?  Why?

SERENA DEJESUS – “It’s helped me realize there’s multiple ways to teach a solution. Something I need to remember because I can become very rigid in thought, routine, etc.  In BJJ there’s more than one way to get a submission and I try to apply that mindset to life.”

QUEEN MMA MEDIA – Can you share with me how your coach John Woods has affected your training, fight game, and skill set?

SERENA DEJESUS – “Quite honestly if it wasn’t for John I have no idea where I’d be. He’s helped me evolve every fight.  Every fight I have been in I’m not the same. I move different, attack different, grapple different, etc. I’m really grateful to have him in my life as a coach and someone I can talk to too.  I made it a goal of mine when I won my last fight to get everyone in the crowd to sing happy birthday to him because he was spending his birthday coaching me and other fighters when he could be in California where some of my other teammates were fighting. “

QUEEN MMA MEDIA – Do you feel your fight game and skill set is progressing?  Why?

SERENA DEJESUS – “Yeah, I believe it’s improving. Sometimes on bad training days I doubt my growth but all I do is watch my old fights and then I see how I was then. Afterwards I’m like “hot damn I’d whoop old me’s ass if I had to!  My skill set improves thanks to all my coaches and teammates at syndicate and the fact I can never stay away from the gym long.”

QUEEN MMA MEDIA – How would you describe yourself as a fighter?

SERENA DEJESUS – “In the cage I guess I’m just reactive. I just move and look for gaps and attack. I look mean but mostly cause I’m squinting to see the other side of the cage without my glasses.  Outside the cage I’m just a goofy but fiery nerd who love all things anime, video games and kaiju related.”

QUEEN MMA MEDIA – Can you share with me the biggest moment in your MMA career?  Why?

SERENA DEJESUS – “I have two actually. One being my win in June for the Tuff-n-Uff belt but the second was my first fight here in Las Vegas for my second MMA fight.  I fought a very tough woman named Cheyenne and we had a war.  But before all that just training here at Syndicate for this fight was the final point that told me this place and with John Wood as my coach was what I needed. Eventually I came here with just two big duffle bags to my name to live here and I’ve really succeeded so far.”

QUEEN MMA MEDIA – Can you share how Roxanne Modafferi has brought benefit to your fight game?

SERENA DEJESUS – “My grappling has gotten WAY better. Also because we process things the same way she helps me break down whatever we’re learning.”

QUEEN MMA MEDIA – I realize your MMA training helps you deal with challenges.  I understand you have a blog and enjoy writing.  Does writing provide you a comfortable place to share and express your views, thoughts, and ideas?  Does writing help you deal with Asperger’s Syndrome?

SERENA DEJESUS – “Writing helps me articulate my feelings cause it gives me more time to think on it.  It’s hard for me to tell on the spot how I feel.  I write because I know it will reach a bigger crowd of people who go through what I do.  Their families, and people wanting to learn more about autism.  Writing also has just naturally been a knack for me so I would always be writing about something.”

QUEEN MMA MEDIA – Tell me a little about your journey and time in Thailand?

SERENA DEJESUS – “I was there for a month training at Sinbi Muay Thai.  It was my first ever plane trip and my first place traveling out of the country.  I loved training there even though it was the rainy season and unfathomably hot.  Thailand is such a beautiful country and the people are so friendly and funny.  I hope to go back soon, it’s been four years since I’ve been there.”

QUEEN MMA MEDIA – Most all fighters are aware of the reality that they will more than likely fight many of the other athletes at one point or another if they are to continue the climb towards the top.  Outside of the Diaz (Nate and Nick) brothers who to my understanding have claimed they will never fight one another in the cage no matter what the payday promise is, I know of no others.  With that said, would you step into the cage against Modafferi if the situation presented itself?  

SERENA DEJESUS – “Nope, wouldn’t fight Roxy no matter how much money they’re throwing out there. She’s too important to me and is like family.  However if she goes eating nachos without me that’s a different story.”

QUEEN MMA MEDIA – One thing is for sure “The Happy Warrior” and “The Southpaw Outlaw” sounds like one MMA superhero comic book that would be hard to pass up.

QUEEN MMA MEDIA

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PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S WORLD MMA ATOMWEIGHT (105 lbs) TOP RANKINGS

1.	AYAKA HAMASAKI	14 – 2	INVICTA FC Champion
2.	JINH YU FREY	6 – 2
3.	HERICA TIBURCIO	11 – 4
4.	SEO HEE HAM	18 – 8	ROAD FC Champion
5.	MINA KUROBE	10 – 3	DEEP JEWELS Champion
6.	NAHO ‘Sugi Rock’ SUGIYAMA	12 – 5
7.	TESSA ‘The Typhoon’ SIMPSON	5 – 2
8.	JULIA ‘Jewels’ JONES	5 – 0
9.	RENA KUBOTA	5 – 0
10.	ASHLEY “Smashley” CUMMINS	5 – 4

QUEEN MMA MEDIA is proud to officially present its professional women’s world mixed martial arts Atomweight top rankings. If an athlete has been inactive for three years or more they are disqualified from the rankings. Regardless, if a fighter has announced retirement from the sport, they are still included in the rankings provided they have not been dormant for three or more years. It is common for fighters to announce retirement only to get back in the cage shortly thereafter. The above rankings are as of November 1, 2017.

(QUEEN MMA MEDIA)

By: Thomas Vickers (MMA – Journalist)

QUEEN MMA MEDIA

(Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)  On Saturday, October 28, 2017, King of the Cage promotions delivered an exciting card of mixed martial arts action at the SugarHouse Casino.

Lindsey “Damsel” VanZandt remains undefeated as a pro defeating Bi “Killher Bee” Nguyen in a hard fought three round split decision victory. Bi Nguyen entered the fight with a respectable 3 – 1 pro record, proving herself to be a scrappy Atomweight and VanZandt’s biggest challenge so far as a professional.  It was a close and competitive match up.

The judges at cage side scored the fight 29 – 28 Nguyen, 29 – 28 VanZandt, and 29 – 28 VanZandt.  Declaring VanZandt the winner by way of split decision.  Queen MMA Media had the bout scored round one 10 – 9 VanZandt, round two 10 – 9 VanZandt, and round three 10 – 9 Nguyen.  Giving a close 29 – 28 decision to VanZandt.

“I broke my hand the first overhand I threw,” explained Lindsey to Queen MMA Media. “I didn’t throw as many crosses, I threw more hooks.  I think it made me a little hesitant but who knows, I was trying not to think about it,” stated VanZandt regarding her injury.

VanZandt mustered the split decision victory despite suffering the injury to her right hand early in the first round.  With her first two wins having come by way of impressive technical knockouts via brutal ground and pound, the win over Bi Nguyen seemed to be VanZandt’s most impressive.  Faced with unexpected adversity VanZandt demonstrated the kind of composure and maturity found in a seasoned veteran, adapting to the damaged hand as well as adjusting her game plan with success.  She has proven not only is she able to end fights swiftly and decisively with her aggressive ground assaults, but she is also able to intelligently navigate her way to a decision with only half an offense.

VanZandt improved her undefeated professional record to 3 – 0 while revealing yet another part of her fight game, perhaps the most important, the willingness to overcome.  If VanZandt continues to advance at her current rate it will be difficult for most to consider her anything other than a real future prospect who could someday reach a place among the top Atomweights.

“I don’t think it should have went to split decision.  I feel I definitely won the first two rounds,” explained VanZandt to Queen MMA Media when asked if she agreed with the judge’s decision and how the fight unfolded.  “I think I could have stood up with her better in the last round,” added Lindsey pertaining to the early injury of her right hand.

VanZandt has had three fights in four months, an incredible pace for any MMA athlete.  Lindsey explained she is going to take some time off before her next bout.

Bi Nguyen fell to 3 – 2 with the loss but clearly backed up her closing words after the fight, “Atomweights scrap.”

(QUEEN MMA MEDIA)

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