NORTH EAST MMA Fighter Focus
JOE PARKER – UNDEFEATED AMATEUR NEW YORK WELTERWEIGHT

JOSEPH PARKER
JOE PARKER fights out of New York.  He made his amateur MMA debut in June of 2018, a first round KO/TKO over Tom Brink (3-3) for the vacant Whitehall Athletic Club amateur 170 lbs title.  Eleven months later in May of 2019 Parker traveled across the Atlantic to face Oli Hooley (1-0) at Cage Warriors 105 in Colchester, Essex, England.  Parker delivered a solid win and upped his amateur MMA record to (2-0) with a unanimous decision over Oli Hooley.  Eighteen months later in November of 2022 Parker defeated Ryan Martin (2-1) via unanimous decision at Cage Wars 54.

Joseph has only entered the amateur cage three times since his 2018 debut.  Despite the long periods of time between bouts Parker has managed to maintain an undefeated record.  With an amateur record of (3-0) Parker is a good test for most amateur welterweights.  He brings solid grappling skills and has demonstrated he knows how to win.  Parker has the talent to bring a stiff challenge to any welterweight in the northeast.  If the New York welterweight can avoid injuries, increase his competitive activity, and add another ‘W’ in his next outing, Joe Parker would be a prime contender for any amateur welterweight title in New England.

NORTH EAST MMA Media
By: Tommy Vickers (Combat Sports Journalist)

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Amateur MMA Fighter Focus

JONATHAN PIERSMA
WAR HAWK – NEW YORK’S PRO MMA WELTERWEIGHT
By: Thomas Vickers (Combat Sports Journalist)

JONATHAN “War Hawk” PIERSMA
As his nickname implies, when Jonathan Piersma steps into the steel cage he is ready for war.  He fights out of New York and trains under the guidance of Synthesis BJJ.  Piersma made his amateur MMA debut in February of 2018.  The “War Hawk” went on to produce a notable amateur career.  His amateur highlights include winning the Gladius Fights middleweight championship title in September of 2018 and capturing the Full Contact Promotion vacant welterweight title in January of 2019.  Piersma produced a stout (6-1) MMA record as an amateur taking five of his six victories by way of finish. 

Piersma made his professional debut as a welterweight in December of 2020 at CFFC 91 (Cage Fury FC).  He delivered a dominating first round finish victory via guillotine choke.  The New York fighter quickly built a solid (3-0) record as a pro finishing all three of his opponents in two rounds or less.  The undefeated up and coming “War Hawk” hit a slight bump in October of 2021 against Kris Vereen (5-0) at CFFC 101, a bout that resulted in a No Contest.  In March of 2022 Piersma was given his first “L”, a hard fought split decision loss to Charlie Radtke (4-3).

The Rochester area fighter refused to let the ‘no contest’ and the split decision slow his progress and returned to the professional cage in July of 2022 and delivered a lightning first round finish over TJ Welch (2-2) at CFFC 111.  Piersma’s strong return shifted towards him gaining the opportunity for a regional pro title matchup against a seasoned top shelf local MMA warrior, Ryan Sanders (20-9) for the vacant NEF pro welterweight championship title.  In November of 2022 Piersma defeated Ryan Sanders for the vacant New England Fights pro welterweight title via unanimous decision.  The victory over the experienced veteran Sanders along with the NEF pro welterweight title strap added more evidence as to Piersma’s rise among the upper northeast pro welterweights.
“I’d say my toughest fight to date was fighting for the NEF title.  Getting five rounds experience and fighting a tough veteran with thirty fights of experience,” explained Piersma.
When asked if he had plans to defend the NEF title in the future Piersma responded with “At this point there is no plan for me to defend my NEF title or return to fight for them (NEF).”

Jonathan “War Hawk” Piersma is coming off a big second round KO/TKO stoppage of Sanad Armouti (3-1) under the bright lights of the wide reaching Combat FC promotion in February of this year.  He is riding the energy of a three fight winning streak and carrying the pro strap of a regional northeast promotion. Fight fans keep a close eye on this northeast pro welterweight. The “War Hawk” is explosive, aggressive, and hungry.  He is strong and brings a serious wrestling game.  As Piersma continues to gain experience and develop a larger arsenal fight fans can expect to see him continue to rise higher and higher.  Word is that on June 16, 2023 Jonathan “War Hawk” Piersma will stepping into the cage to chase another pro title belt.

Cover Photo Credit – (CFFC)
By: Thomas Vickers (Combat Sports Journalist)

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Amateur MMA Fighter Focus

NATE RUSSELL – TOP AMATEUR MASSACHUSETTS FLYWEIGHT
NORTH EAST MMA Media
By: Thomas Vickers (Combat Sports Journalist)

NATE RUSSELL fights out of Massachusetts and trains under Fighting Arts Academy.  After nine plus years as an amateur MMA combatant Nate Russell has produced an outstanding (8-3) record and has claimed four promotional title belts.  His accomplishments in the cage make him a real standout among the amateur MMA flyweights throughout the northeast region.

Russell made his amateur debut in August of 2013 with a KO/TKO first round win over Matt Bergen (0-1) at Premier FC 14.  He went on to produce a four fight winning streak with a first round rear naked choke finish of Kenny Morell at Reality Fighting in November of 2013, followed by a second round finish over Jesse Gutierrez (0-3) in February of 2014 at Warrior Nation XFA 8.  Russell capped his four fight winning streak by capturing his first amateur MMA title belt with a second round rear naked choke submission victory against Jovany Alverez (6-4-1) for the vacant Premier FC amateur flyweight championship in February of 2016.  At an undefeated (4-0) Russell was off to a strong start as an amateur however in April of 2016 he came up short in a challenge for the Cage Titans amateur flyweight championship title.  Russell lost via first round rear naked choke to Richie Santiago (4-4) the defending Cage Titan champion.  It was his first loss inside the cage.  After a three year layoff Russell returned to the amateur MMA cage in July of 2019 to face an undefeated Jake Bagley (2-0) at AMMO Fight League 7 for the vacant AFL flyweight title.  A fight Russell won via a second round stoppage.  The Massachusetts flyweight marched on to gain a unanimous decision win over Josh Smith (6-2) in May of 2021 at Ultimate Battle Grounds 7.  Russell was developing and evolving into one of the best amateur flyweights in New England.  His performances began to gain the attention of fight fans throughout the northeast. In August of 2021 Russell gained his third amateur title strap winning the Cage Titan vacant amateur flyweight title by way of a second round rear naked choke over Joe Poirier (2-0).  With an impressive amateur record of (7-1) few in New England could doubt Russell’s skill set and ability.  With three title belts to his credit he had clearly forged out a name for himself among the northeast amateur flyweights.  In November of 2021 Russell stepped up to challenge Alex De La Cruz the Cage Wars flyweight champion. Cruz was undefeated with a strong amateur record of (4-0) and considered to be a rising prospect with a possible bright future as a pro on the horizon.  This would be Russell’s biggest test as an amateur.  Despite a hard fought effort Russell took the ‘L’ by way of unanimous decision.  The set back would be a short one as Russell made a dynamic rebound in March of 2022 to win the Cage Wars vacant amateur flyweight title.  Russell laid claim to the vacant Cage Wars flyweight title with an explosive first round knockout victory over a highly talented Xi Lau (8-3).  The win over Lau seemed to cement Russell as the top amateur flyweight in New England and place him among the best amateur flyweights in the northeast. 

in January of 2023 Russell made a run at the Cage Titans amateur flyweight title against Tyler Smythe but fell via unanimous decision.

“I didn’t do anything we worked on in camp and I reverted back to bad habits.  I was too comfortable doing what has always worked for me and failed to make the necessary adjustments,” Russell commented on his loss to Smythe.  Russell felt Smythe was able to follow through with his game plan.  “I can only blame myself for not doing what I was supposed to do and thank him (Smythe) for showing me that my mistakes need to be fixed in order for me to get better and stay competitive.” 

With a near ten year amateur career behind him I asked Nate Russell who has been his most challenging opponent to date.  Russell explained to me Alex De La Cruz was without a doubt his biggest test inside the cage.  He added former opponent Richie Santiago turned out to be a great fighter but believes his loss to Santiago wasn’t as competitive due to Russell not delivering his best. 

When asked if he has considered turning professional Russell replied, “Yes but not just to say that I’m a pro fighter.  I have two goals.  One is to fight as long as possible and two is to fight the best guy available every fight I get.  No easy fights.”

Russell has attempted to balance his time between fighting and family, which is one of the biggest challenges a fighter can face.  Considering Russell’s age and that he is not getting any younger he feels it may be best to hold with three minute rounds versus move to five minute rounds, an effort to increase his longevity in the sport of MMA.  Russell believes the more experience he gains the more the solid competition pool begins to shrink at the amateur level.  As the pool of worthy regional amateurs dwindle, Russell may need to search for more options, a very common hurdle for most amateur fighters with notable talent and promise.  “Going pro will affect two of my priorities which are fighting as long as possible and spending time with my family.  If I can continue to fight high quality guys at the amateur level I will in order to keep my goals in line but that amateur window is closing fast and I don’t know how much time I have left,” stated Russell. 

If you are a fight fan from New England you are already well aware of the fact Nate Russell always takes the tough fights.  He is the definition of a real competitor, the type of fighter that is always looking for a bigger test.  Nate Russell is a true flyweight.  He has speed, movement, and grit.  He is dangerous in both standup and on the ground.  Nate Russell is an intelligent fighter with a vast level of experience.  He is extraordinarily well rounded and has an impressive wrestling background.  His experience and fight IQ make him a major threat and a formidable opponent for most any flyweight in the amateur game.  The Massachusetts flyweight explained he currently has some fight news lined up that should be coming out soon.  He believes there are still a couple good fights for him at the amateur level. “We gotta get through this one before we think about those.  We’ll see where it goes from there,” closed Russell.  It will be interesting to see what direction Russell’s MMA career goes.  Regardless the path Russell’s career takes moving forward, fight fans can be assured the Massachusetts flyweight will continue to wow the crowd with his high level skills and his extremely competitive spirit.

By: Thomas Vickers (Combat Sports Journalist)
NORTH EAST MMA Media
Title Cover Photo Credit – AMMO FL

NORTH EAST MMA Media
Amateur MMA Fighter Focus
BRODY McDOUGAL – A CONFIDENT NEW HAMPSHIRE WELTERWEIGHT

By: Thomas Vickers (Combat Sports Journalist)

“I’d love to get my Cage Titans belt next but I really don’t care man.  I just want to fight and show everybody how great Nostros MMA is.  I’m standing here chin up, chest out saying I’m the baddest dude at 170 lbs.  I hold the keys somebody come try and fucking take them!” – BRODY McDOUGAL

BRODY “The American Psycho” McDOUGAL fights out of New Hampshire and trains under Nostos MMA.  McDougal burst onto the amateur MMA scene in June of 2021 with a debut victory via second round rear naked choke submission at WCFL 29 (World Class Fight League).  Brody came into the sport of MMA a tough kid with a hockey background.  He was brought to amateur MMA by his love for the sport and the desire to prove himself.  Before Brody entered under the guidance of NOSTROS MMA he had zero martial arts experience.  Once under Nostros MMA he rapidly began consuming knowledge in all aspects of the fight game.  McDougal moved on to gain a win in a Muay Thai bout at Cage Titans 52 in April of 2022 against Mark Murphy via KO/TKO in round two.  Brody won his second amateur MMA outing with a smashing second round KO/TKO finish over Ben Bratko in July of 2022 at Cage Titans 54.

In January of 2023 McDougal won the vacant Reality Fighting Welterweight Championship Title with an impressive first round armbar submission versus Nuridiin Abrar (3-2). Against Abrar, McDougal demonstrated descent movement in standup.  He showed he has a nice left jab, a clean straight right, and that he can be extremely aggressive with both his fists and his feet.  After the title match McDougal honored the man he attributes to his success, his coach Devin Powell with the championship belt.  “The reason I still step into the cage to this day is to just prove to myself I am who I believe I am,” explained McDougal. 

The twenty-six year old combatant has put together an attractive three fight winning streak as an amateur in MMA.  Brody “The American Psycho” McDougal is undefeated at (3-0).  Brody believes he is a problem for everyone in the 170 LBS division.  “When somebody signs there name on a contract saying they think they are better than me, I take it personally and will do everything in my power to crush them,” states the New Hampshire welterweight.  On a regional amateur level McDougal will bring serious excitement into the steel cage and will no doubt be a strong challenge for most every regional welterweight.  At a height of 6’2” McDougal is a tall and rangy welterweight.  His skill set will most surely continue to grow with each bout. 

When I look at McDougal I see an amateur New Hampshire welterweight with major league confidence, a fighter with a dangerous straight right hand, and a man on a mission.  In closing I asked Brody McDougal what’s next for “The American Psycho”.  His reply, “Anybody. I’d love to get my Cage Titans belt next but I really don’t care man.  I just want to fight and show everybody how great Nostros MMA is.  I’m standing here chin up, chest out saying I’m the baddest dude at 170 lbs.  I hold the keys somebody come try and fucking take them!”

NORTH EAST MMA Media

By: Thomas Vickers (Combat Sports Journalist)

NORTH EAST MMA Fighter Focus

ANTHONY “The Machine” BENEVIDES
CONNECTICUT PRO WELTERWEIGHT READY TO FOLLOW DREAMS

By: Thomas Vickers (Combat Sports Journalist)

ANTHONY BENEVIDES fights out of Connecticut and trains under Ultimate MMA and the head coaching guidance of Andrew Calandrelli and Marissa Messer-Belenchia.  “These two (Calandrelli and Belenchia) are a powerhouse of coaching ability,” Benevides stated pertaining to his five years of study at UMMA.  “They break everything down step by step along with a variety of modifications to each move so we can understand both sides of the spectrum,” continued Benevides.  In addition to Andrew Calandrelli and Marissa Belenchia, Benevides trains alongside Yuri Panferov the current #1 ranked pro MMA light heavyweight in the northeast.  “As my main training partner, we push each other to our limits,” explained Benevides.  Anthony gives Panferov considerable praise and considers him to be a large factor in his preparation for his upcoming professional bout set for May at Reality Fighting. 

Benevides made his amateur MMA debut in April of 2014 with a round one submission win over Myles Reid (1-4) at Premier FC 15.  After a string of six cancelled bouts and nearly four years later Benevides finally entered the cage for his second amateur fight.  Anthony describes his amateur time gap as being a rollercoaster to get things going.  It was in March of 2018 he made his return to amateur MMA competition.  In his return bout Benevides captured his second ‘W’ as an amateur, a unanimous decision win over Nick Fernandez at Premier FC 25.  Benevides describes his amateur career as a tedious one.  “I had a very tough young adult life which caused numerous amounts of stress for me,” he explained.  The challenge and difficulty of mixing a fight career with family, work, and daily life is a bigger obstacle then most people realize.  Anthony finished his amateur career with a run at the Premier FC Middleweight Title in November of 2018 against a very skilled and dangerous Yu Ji.  In a hard fought contest Benevides came up short and finished his amateur career with a (2-1) record. 

The Connecticut welterweight elected to turn pro last year.  A decision he explained was solely based on his age.  At twenty-seven years old Benevides feels he is not getting any younger.  He believes he has the skill set to give it a solid go.  Anthony made his professional MMA debut in January of 2023 at Reality Fighting against thirty-two year old Oscar Vera (0-3).  Benevides delivered a strong performance gaining a victory via first round KO/TKO.  In his pro debut Benevides looked calm for a fighter with only three amateur bouts of experience.  He took control of the fight and finished it with authority. 

“I’m the next big thing fighting in the 170 lbs division.  I want everyone to know who I am,” Benevides explained.  Anthony’s second professional match is scheduled for May under the bright lights and in front of the swelling crowds of Mohegan Sun Arena at Reality Fighting.  Benevides is excited to showcase his improved striking and has his sights set on a knockout victory.  Anthony Benevides brings a standup game and is an accomplished blue belt in BJJ.  He has a stout wrestling background and a real desire to be the top dog in the 170 lbs division.  It will be exciting to watch the twenty-seven year old Connecticut welterweight evolve at the professional level.  Benevides is (1-0) and off to a good start as a professional. 

“My main goal isn’t to be a champion, a main star, none of that.  I just want my kids to grow up knowing their father made it and followed through with his dreams.” – ANTHONY BENEVIDES

 

NORTH EAST MMA Media

By: Thomas Vickers (Combat Sports Journalist)

Cover Photo Credit – TAMMY MCMANAWAY Sports Photography 

JUSTIN VALENTIN – CONNECTICUT’S UP AND COMING PRO MMA FLYWEIGHT

NORTH EAST MMA Media / PRO MMA Fighter Focus

Justin Valentin fights out of Connecticut and trains under the guidance of Underdog Mixed Martial Arts.  Valentin is a true flyweight having fought all of his amateur and professional MMA bouts at 125 lbs.  He made his amateur debut back in September of 2014 at Premier FC 17 delivering a victory via guillotine choke submission in the third round.  The Connecticut flyweight went on to build a convincing (5-1) record as an amateur.  With four of his amateur wins coming by way of finish, Valentin demonstrated to the local fight fans that he is exciting to watch and possesses the ability to stop opponents.  Some of Valentin’s amateur victories have come against notable northeast talent.  Of such include a first round submission win in March of 2015 at Warrior Nation XFA 10 over tough Massachusetts fighter Richie Santiago.  As well as a first round knockout victory in May of 2018 at Reality Fighting over Harris Bonfiglio, a solid fellow Connecticut MMA competitor.  Both of these opponents have gone on to become competitive northeast MMA professionals with Santiago currently holding an (8-5) record inside the cage and Harris Bonfiglio who as a professional is (5-1).

Valentin made his professional MMA debut in November of 2018 under the lights at CES MMA 53.  Valentin delivered a first round finish via guillotine choke against an (0-2) Jessie Pires.  After a strong (2-0) start Valentin ran into a few stumbles gaining back to back ‘L’s in 2019.  According to the cage side judges both bouts where extremely close contests. Valentin’s first pro loss arrived by way of majority decision against Jason Huntley at CES MMA 55.  Valentin’s second pro loss a hard fought split decision versus Adrian Haly at CES MMA 58.  Valentin has pushed forward to produce a solid (4-2) MMA record as a pro with three of his wins coming by way of finish.  Valentin and his team have managed to turn the momentum around, currently riding a two fight winning streak.  The Connecticut flyweight is coming off an impressive second round heel hook submission over Tim Flores (3-1), a promising pro New England prospect.  The win over Flores is a big step in the right direction for Valentin.  The win against Flores has brought more regional attention to Valentin.  It has put him in a position of opportunity and growth.  Valentin carries a sufficient standup game and a formidable ground game.  He is scrappy, can be tenacious, and brings real skill.   Valentin clearly continues to evolve inside the cage.  As more opportunities come into the picture it will be interesting to see if Valentin can find the focus needed to push his way up the pro flyweight mountain.  Northeast and New England promotions should give Valentin a good look over as he would definitely bring additional MMA electricity to any regional fight card.

NORTH EAST MMA Media

By: Thomas Vickers (Combat Sports Journalist)

COMBAT FC 3 SET FOR FEBRUARY 10, 2023
In June of 2022 World Championship Fighting founder Joe Cavallaro returned from a ten year hiatus to launch the northeast’s newest and most dynamic mixed martial arts promotion Combat FC.  COMBAT FC 1 was held June 17, 2022 and was well received by fight fans.  On October 21, 2022 COMBAT FC 2 continued down the path of success.  On February 10, 2023 COMBAT FC 3 looks to be even more epic as it prepares to deliver the high level combat sports action fight fans love. 

DATE – February 10, 2023
PLACE – Wilmington, Massachusetts / The Shriners Auditorium

COMBAT FC 3 – FIGHT CARD
NORTH EAST MMA Media takes a quick look into the hard hitting action being served up at COMBAT FC 3

RICO DISCIULLO vs CHARALAMPOS GRIGORIOU
Pro Bantamweight Combat FC Title (vacant)
RICO DISCIULLO made his pro MMA debut back in 2013.  He fights out of Massachusetts, trains under Sityodtong Boston, and brings a stout (11-2) pro record into the COMBAT FC professional bantamweight title fight.  Disciullo brings quality skills having made an appearance under the lights at Dana White’s Contender Series back in 2018.  The thirty-six year old is riding a two fight win streak and is ready to walk away with the Combat FC Pro Bantamweight Title.

CHARALAMPOS “The Ferocious” GRIGORIOU fights out of Paphos and is riding a two fight win streak of his own.  The thirty year old brings a (6-3) pro record into the title fight and is coming off a second round win via KO/TKO finish back in April of 2022. Four of Grigoriou’s wins have come by way of finish.  

REGIVALDO CARVALHO vs SOLO HATLEY JR
Pro Featherweight Bout (145 LBS) (3 x 5 minute rounds)
REGIVALDO “Magrao” CARVALHO fights out of Connecticut and trains under Teixteira MMA & Fitness.  He brings a (6-4) pro record into the Combat FC cage.

SOLO “The I.R.S. Man” HATLEY JR fights out of Arkansas and heralds a (10-6) pro record.  The twenty-six year old brings considerable boxing experience and is coming  off a first round knockout win back in October of 2022 at Attitude MMA Fights 25.

JOSH KREJCI vs TRAVIS DEMKO
Pro Catch-Weight Bout (140 LBS) (3 x 5 minute rounds)
JOSH KREJCI fights out of Missouri and carries a (1-2) record as a professional.  The thirty-four year old Krejci will be entering the Combat FC cage for the second time.

TRAVIS DEMKO fights out of Massachusetts and trains under Lauzon Mixed Martial Arts.  The twenty-nine year old Demko brings an undefeated (2-0) pro record and a strong boxing background into the contest. Both of Demko’s wins have come via finish.

CHRIS ROONEY vs MARCEL ROMERO
Pro Featherweight Bout (145 LBS) (3 x 5 minute rounds)
CHRIS “Iron Fist” ROONEY fights out of Vermont and carries an (0-3) pro record.  The thirty-five year old brings nineteen fights of amateur experience and is gunning for his first win as a professional.

MARCEL “The Jackal” ROMERO fights out of Massachusetts and trains under Grit and Gratitude Wrestling Academy.  He produced an undefeated (4-0) amateur career and is looking to make a big impact in his professional debut.
 

RICHARDSON MOREIRA vs FABIO CHERANT
Pro Light Heavyweight Bout (205 LBS) (3 x 5 minute rounds)
RICHARDSON “Rick Monstro” MOREIRA fights out of Brazil and trains under Team Nogueira.  The thirty-eight year old is (8-5) as a pro.  He had success in the Ultimate Fighter Brazil Season 3 back in 2014 and has had two appearances in the UFC.

FABIO “Water Buffalo” CHERANT fights out of Massachusetts and trains under Lauzon Mixed Martial Arts.  The twenty-eight year old brings a (7-4) pro record into the cage.  Cherant has had three appearances in the UFC and is looking to end a three fight losing slump at Combat FC 3.

These are two very capable and accomplished light heavyweights that are almost guaranteed to put on a serious showdown inside the cage.
 

RATAVIOUS THRASHER vs JON VIRUET
Pro Welterweight Bout (170 LBS) (3 x 5 minute rounds)
RATAVIOUS “Playboy” THRASHER fights out of New York and trains under Gracie Jiu Jitsu.  The twenty-six year old brings a (0-2) pro record into the cage and is looking to turn around a hard four fight losing streak.

JON “All Business” VIRUET will be making his pro debut at Combat FC 3.  He fights out of Massachusetts and trains under Grit and Gratitude Wrestling Academy.  Viruet compiled an undefeated (4-0) record as an amateur and finished his amateur career ranked #1 among the New England amateur 170 pounders.
 

JAKE PILLA vs ZACHARY BURHANS
Pro Featherweight Bout (145 LBS) (3 x 5 minute rounds)
JAKE “The Gorilla” PILLA fights out of Massachusetts and brings an undefeated (2-0) pro record into the bout.  The twenty-seven year old gained both his pro wins via finish and is coming off a first round finish at Combat FC 2 back in October of 2022.  Pilla is the hometown fighter.  He produced a (7-2) record as an amateur and has rallied together an impressive five fight winning streak.

ZACHARY “The Birdman” BURHANS fights out of New York and trains under Team Bombsquad.  The thirty-four year old carries a (4-5) pro record into the matchup.

AARON TRECELL vs STEPHEN STENGEL
Pro Catch-Weight Bout (175 LBS) (3 x 5 minute rounds)
AARON “Earthquake” TRECELL fights out of Massachusetts and trains under Sityodtong Boston.  The twenty-eight year old brings a boxing background and hosts a (1-3) MMA record as a pro.

STEPHEN STENGEL is (5-20) as a professional.  The thirty-eight year old fights out of Massachusetts and made his pro debut back in 2006.

DANNY MALDONADO vs DAN CORMIER
Pro Flyweight Bout (125 LBS) (3 x 5 minute rounds)
DANNY MALDONADO fights out of New York and trains under Warrior’s Nation MMA.  He brings a (1-4) pro record into the cage and is coming off a first round guillotine choke win from back in September of 2022.

DAN “The Hamburglar” CORMIER fights out of Rhode Island and trains under Tri Force MMA.  He made his pro MMA debut back in August of 2012 and has built a (9-10) record.  Cormier has solid boxing experience and is coming off a unanimous decision MMA win back in November of 2021.

These are two scrappy pro flyweights.  The fight fans should expect a competitive matchup.

MOHAMMAD AL KINANI vs ROBERT WUSSTIG
Pro Lightweight Bout (155 LBS) (3 x 5 minute rounds)
MOHAMMAD AL KINANI fights out of Maine and trains under Evolution Athletix.  He brings a (4-1) pro record alongside a two fight win streak into the fight.  The twenty-six year old has finished all four of his wins via KO/TKO.

ROBERT WUSSTIG fights out of Guam and trains under Countershot Kickboxing Academy.  He carries eighteen pro fights of experience and host a (7-11) pro record.
 

TERRANCE JEAN-JACQUES vs DIRLEI BROENSTRUP
Pro Heavyweight Bout (265 LBS) (3 x 5 minute rounds)
TERRANCE “T-Bone” JEAN-JACQUES fights out of Massachusetts and currently holds a solid (8-3) record as a professional.  The thirty year old made his pro debut back in September of 2018 and has gained four of his eight victories by way of finish.  Jean-Jacques in a popular New England fighter who has the energy of a three fight win streak in his corner.

DIRLEI “Mao De Pedra” BROENSTRUP made his pro MMA debut over thirteen years ago back in April of 2009.  He fiths out of Brazil and trains under Minu Fight Team (MFT). The fourty-one year old brings a (17-9) pro record into the heavyweight fight. 

BRUCE RICHARDS vs JAMIE CAMPBELL
Pro Catch-Weight Bout (160 LBS) (3 x 5 minute rounds)
BRUCE RICHARDS fights out of Vermont and is (0-5) as a professional.  He trains under Team MMA Madhouse and made his professional debut back in May of 2014.  Richards brings an enormous volume of amateur experience into the contest.  He brings fifty-nine amateur bouts with thirty-five of them being MMA.

JAMIE “The Comanche” CAMPBELL is undefeated as a pro with a (3-0) record.  He last fought back in February of 2010 at WCF 9. Campbell has finished two of his wins by way of knockout.

TYMAR MILES vs RAMANO MEDINA
Pro Lightweight Bout (155 LBS) (3 x 5 minute rounds)
TYMAR “The Marksman” MILES fights out of New York and hosts a (0-1) record as a pro.  The thirty-four year old brings experience in muay thai, jiu jitus, and wrestling and is looking for his first ‘W’ as a pro.

RAMANO MEDINA fights out of New Hampshire and brings a pro record of (1-0) into the Combat FC cage.  Medina trains under Burgess MMA and currently hosts an impressive seven fight winning streak.  He delivered an undefeated (6-0) record as an amateur and is considered to be a solid future professional prospect.  Medina’s arsenal includes mauy thai and grappling.

KYLIE O’HEARN vs KELLY CLAYTON
Pro Bantamweight Bout (135 LBS) (3 x 5 minute rounds)
Kylie O’Hearn and Kelly Clayton are set to collide at COMBAT FC 3 in pro bantamweight action.  COMBAT FC has elected to add an outstanding female matchup to their already super stacked February 10, 2023 fight card. Kelly Clayton fights out of Washington State and will be traveling across the country to go head to head with Kylie O’Hearn.  Clayton produced a quality (6-3) record as an amateur and brings a pro record of (2-2) into the Combat FC cage. She is riding a two fight winning streak but has not competed in a professional MMA bout in almost two and a half years.  This is a considerable amount of time outside the pro cage. Three of Clayton’s four pro bouts have been at bantamweight (135 LBS). The thirty-nine year old Clayton is coming off a giant upset win against a highly touted Hailey Cowan at FLA 91.  She administered a second round finish victory over Cowan and proved she is a bantamweight not to be under estimated. Kylie O’Hearn fights out of Massachusetts and is as tough as they come.  She is not afraid to take the hard fights.  O’Hearn produced a (3-1) record as an amateur inside the cage.  She turned pro in August of 2018 and currently carries a (2-2) record as a professional. The twenty-five year old O’Hearn is coming off a unanimous decision win against Gabriella Gulfin in April of 2022 at Cage Titans 52.  She is the local fighter and will almost surely have the hometown crowd in her corner.  Three of O’Hearn’s bouts have been at flyweight (125 LBS).  This will be her first time fighting at bantamweight (135 LBS) as a pro. Both fighters will be making their Combat FC debut.  Hat’s off to COMBAT FC matchmaker for bringing this top shelf female bout to the card.  This is a good looking fight.  Both of these lady warriors are capable of putting the crowd on the edge of their seats with monster sized action. Kelly Clayton and Kylie O’Hearn bring one hundred percent into the cage every time.  Both are aggressive, strong, and durable.  They are hungry, and both are ready to deliver an outstanding fight.  Fight fans can expect serious electricity mixed with pure fireworks. This fight has fight of the night stamped all over it.

SANAD ARMOUTI vs JONATHAN PIERSMA
Pro Welterweight Bout (170 LBS) (3 x 5 minute rounds)
SANAD ARMOUTI fights out of Massachusetts and trains under Florian Martial Arts Center.  He is riding a two fight winning streak and brings a (3-1) pro record into the contest.  Armouti is coming off a first round win by way of arm-bar submission at Combat FC 2 back in October of 2022.  This will be his third time entering the Combat FC cage.

JONATHAN “War Hawk” PIERSMA fights out of New York and trains under Synthesis BJJ.  The twenty-six year old is riding a two fight winning streak of his own and has gained four of his five wins via finish.  Piersma brings strong grappling and wrestling skill into the fight.  He is coming off a unanimous decision win back in November of 2022 at New England Fights 50.

LEONARDO LADEIRA vs BOBBY CASALE
Pro Catch-Weight Bout (160 LBS) (3 x 5 minute rounds)
LEONARDO LADEIRA fights out of Massachusetts and trains under Sityodtong Boston.  Ladeira brings considerable boxing experience alongside a professional MMA record of (2-3) into the bout.  He is on a two fight win streak having finished both via first round.

BOBBY CASALE fights out of Florida and trains under Kill Cliff FC.  Casale hosts a (1-1) record as a pro and is coming off a round one rear naked choke submission win at Titan FC 79 back in August of 2022.

KRIS MOUTINHO vs CHRIS DISONELL
Pro Bantamweight Bout (135 LBS) (3 x 5 minute rounds)
KRIS MOUTINHO is a tough 135 pounder looking to put an end to a two fight losing streak. Moutinho fights out of Massachusetts and brings a (9 – 6) pro record into the cage.  The thirty year old bantamweight has had two appearances in the UFC facing opponents the like of Sean O’Malley back in July of 2021.

CHRIS DISONELL is always game. He fights out of New York and brings a (6 – 5) pro record into the contest. Disonell is coming off an “L” at Bellator 274 however he is (2 – 1) in his last three outings.

MOUTINHO versus DISONELL looks to be red hot! A strong bantamweight matchup!

JOHN BELL vs MIKE BEZANSON
Pro Welterweight Bout (170 LBS) (3 x 5 minute rounds)
JOHN “Cheat Code” BELL fights out of Nebraska and trains under Mick Doyle’s Kickboxing Academy.  As an amateur he produced a strong (4-1) record and is riding a three fight winning streak.  All three of Bell’s amateur wins came by way of finish via strikes and punches.  The twenty-three year old trains in taekwondo, boxing, BJJ, wrestling, and Muay Thai. 

MIKE “All Class” BEZANSON fights out of New Hampshire and trains under Burgess MMA.  He hosts a (1-0) record as a professional.  Bezanson went undefeated (6-0) as an amateur and is carrying the momentum of an impressive seven fight winning streak.  He made his pro debut back in April of 2022 with a unanimous decision win.  Bezanson will be on the hunt for his second victory as a pro.

Bezanson versus Bell looks like a good pro welterweight fight. This is a matchup almost guaranteed to be action packed.
 

JOE CORTIGIANO vs MIKE JOLICOEUR
Amateur Lightweight Bout (155 LBS) (3 x 3 minute rounds)
JOE CORTIGIANO is (0-2) as an amateur.  He fights and trains out of Massachusetts and will gunning for his first win inside the cage at Combat FC.

MIKE JOLICOEUR fights out of New Hampshire and trains under Karasu Tengu Academy.  He is (1-1) as an amateur and brings a considerable amount of kickboxing experience into the fight.

ZACK MAGDIS vs HAL ZANONE
Amateur Middleweight Bout (185 LBS) (3 x 3 minute rounds)
HAL “El Gallo” ZANONE fights and trains out of Connecticut.  The twenty-nine year old brings a (1-1) amateur record into the match.  He made his debut with a big KO/TKO round one win at Combat FC 1 back in June of 2022.

ZACK “Zohan” MAGDIS will be looking to make his amateur MMA debut at Combat FC 3.  A win over Zanone will launch him in the right direction.

JARROD ST. JEAN vs SAHEEB JACKSON
Amateur Lightweight Bout (155 LBS) (3 x 3 minute rounds)
JARROD ST. JEAN fights and trains out of New Hampshire.  The twenty-one year old brings a solid undefeated (2-0) amateur record into the cage.  Jean finished his first two opponents and with his first two amateur bouts being with the promotion Combat FC he is quickly becoming a Combat FC veteran.

SAHEEB “The Juice” JACKSON fights and trains out of New Hampshire.  The twenty-five year old carries a (1-0) amateur record into the cage.  Jackson is coming off a debut win via a first round guillotine choke finish back in November of 2022.  

BRIAN O’NEIL vs SEAN WAKEFIELD
Amateur Middleweight Bout (185 LBS) (3 x 3 minute rounds)
BRIAN O’NEIL fights and trains out of Massachusetts and will be looking to make his amateur MMA debut under the lights at COMBAT FC 3.

SEAN WAKEFIELD fights and trains out of Maine and brings a (1-1) amateur record into the middleweight contest.  Wakefield has gained experience fighting under the promotional banners of Cage Titans and Combat Zone.  He won his amateur debut via unanimous decision and will be looking to add another ‘W’ at Combat FC 3

JOE PETERS vs DARREN McCALL
Amateur MMA Welterweight Bout (170 LBS) (3 x 3 minute rounds)
JOE PETERS fights out of New Hampshire and trains under Karasu Tengu Academy.  He brings a (1-3) amateur record into the contest.  Peters will be aiming to put an end to a two fight losing slump.

DARREN McCALL fights out of Massachusetts and hosts a (0-1) amateur record. 

As we near the event date there is a chance the fight card will be subject to change.
NORTH EAST MMA Media
Tommy Vickers (Combat Reporter-Journalist)

MARISA MESSER-BELENCHIA vs SAMANTHA SCHELL

Professional Atomweight Bout

This fight may be bigger than fans realize.  All fights are important to a combatant however this bout may prove to be a pivotal fight for both fighters.  The outcome of this matchup could play a sizable factor in how both fighters develop into the future and the direction their careers take. 

The thirty-one year old Samantha Schell brings a considerable amount of experience into the cage despite having a (0-2) record as a professional. Samantha made her amateur MMA debut in August of 2016 and finished her amateur career with a (6-4) record. She was called up by Invicta Fighting Championships to compete in the IFC on AXS TV Phoenix Atomweight Tournament back in June of 2021.  An exhibition style tournament set to determine the top contender to face the IFC atomweight champion. Schell performed well with a victory over Kara Maria Vislosky by way of split decision but eventually came up short.  It was valuable experience for a growing fighter.

Samantha is coming off a loss against Elle Wagman at Fighting Alliance Championship by way of unanimous decision. Under the guidance of her coach and husband John Schell and Schell Shock BJJ Samantha has continued pushing to develop her fight game. Schell has a strong drive to overcome. A victory over Belenchia in her own backyard would be a tremendous accomplishment.  It would put her back on the road in the direction of higher ground within the world of WMMA. 

Tommy V. of QUEEN MMA Media – “How much does this fight mean to you?”
SAMANTHA SCHELL – “This fight means what it always does. It is a job, which I love to do, and I’m constantly working on ways to improve myself and my performance so I’m excited to see how the adjustments I’ve made show themselves in the cage.”

Tommy V. of QUEEN MMA Media – “How are you feeling physically and mentally leading into this matchup?”
SAMANTHA SCHELL – “I am pushing myself to all of my physical capabilities and because of all the adjustments I’ve made, this is by far the best I’ve felt mentally during any fight camp.”

Tommy V. of QUEEN MMA Media – “How would you like to see this fight play out?”
SAMANTHA SCHELL – “I’d like to see this fight play out in a way that makes it clearly obvious how greatly I’ve improved and how seriously I take my profession.”

 

Marisa Messer-Belenchia fights out of Connecticut.  She is the hometown fighter and brings a (4-1) professional record into the contest. Marisa produced a (4-2) amateur record before turning pro in June of 2018.  She was called up by Invicta Fighting Championships in June of 2021 to compete in the IFC on AXS TV Phoenix Atomweight Tournament, a tournament to determine the top contender in the IFC atomweight division. Belenchia battled her way to a split decision win against Paulina Granados but was eliminated by the eventual winner of the tournament later on in the competition.  She is coming off a win over Katie Saull via split decision at IFC 44 back in August of 2021.  The thirty year old Connecticut warrior has pro boxing experience along with a formidable ground game.  She has gained notoriety across the New England area as well as the Northeast. With her head coach Andrew Calandrelli of Ultimate MMA in her corner Marisa is gearing up for the June 11^th atomweight matchup.  A win over Schell would raise her MMA stock value and send a message to the atomweight world the ‘Spider Monkey’ is ready to make a hard charge up the WMMA mountain. 

Tommy V. of QUEEN MMA Media – “How much does this fight mean to you?”
MARISA MESSER-BELENCHIA – “I am excited to be back fighting at Mohegan as I haven’t fought locally in a few years.”

Tommy V. of QUEEN MMA Media – “How are you feeling physically and mentally leading into this matchup?”
MARISA MESSER-BELENCHIA – “Mentally and physically its nice to be back on the grind in a fight camp.”

Tommy V. of QUEEN MMA Media – “How would you like to see this fight play out?”
MARISA MESSER-BELENCHIA – “I would like this fight to end in a TKO or submission.”

This is a good matchup.  It looks to be an extremely competitive bout.  Both fighters matchup is size and speed.  Both fighters are tough and have shown sizable heart in past bouts.  The outcome could simply come down to who can execute the better game plan or who wants it the most.  Reality Fighting has landed an exciting fight with Belenchia vs Schell.  Do not sleep on this fight.  When the smoke settles it has the right chemistry to become Fight of the Night. 

I have followed and covered both of these atomweights reaching back to their amateur careers.  I wish them both the very best of skill.

This pro atomweight bout will be Streamed LIVE at RealityFighting.Net

By: T. Vickers (Combat Sports Journalist)

NORTH EAST MMA MEDIA

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