By: Thomas Vickers (MMA – Journalist)

QUEEN MMA MEDIA

JAYME HINSHAW: Ready to defend her King of the Cage Atomweight Title

(QUEEN MMA MEDIA) – On November 10, 2018 Jayme “Atombomb” Hinshaw will defend her King of the Cage (KOTC) pro atomweight title against Katie “Queen of the North” Saull.

The twenty-nine year old champion is on an outstanding three fight win streak.  She is coming off a one-sided title defense against Bi Nguyen.  Hinshaw demonstrated devastating striking against Nguyen, finishing the fight via fourth round rear naked choke submission in July of 2018.

Jayme won the KOTC atomweight title belt in November of 2017 stopping Melissa Karagianis at KOTC – ‘Unstoppable 2’.

There is little question that Hinshaw and her team have increased the boom in the “Atombomb’s” stand up game.  Expect the champion to deliver explosive offense during her hunt for another successful defense of the KOTC atomweight championship belt.

The thirty-one year old Katie Saull is riding an impressive three fight winning streak. She is coming off a unanimous decision victory over Cassie Robb at KOTC – ‘Impending Attack’ in July of 2018.  The “Queen of the North” will be bringing a (3 – 2) pro record and a strong hunger for the atomweight championship belt.

Tommy V. – In your last fight, a title defense against Bi Nguyen, you showed, in my view, a noticeable improvement in your striking, namely your punching.  You dropped Bi twice in the first round with right hands.  The first knockdown was a clean right and the second knockdown a nice flurry combination capped by a solid right hand.  In the second round you dropped her again with a big wide hooking right.  Do you feel your punching has increased in accuracy and power?  If so why?  Is this something you have been focusing on in your fight game?

JAYME HINSHAW – “I have been working on my striking since my fight with Kelly V.  I wanted to showcase it when I got the title shot but due to me breaking my arm in the first round I couldn’t display it.  My coaches and I have been working for awhile with my accuracy and power.  I’m glad that not just my coaches and myself have noticed, it means that what we do here at FITNHB works.“

Tommy V. – You are on a three fight winning streak.  In many peoples eyes you have turned your pro fight career around considerably.  With that said your upcoming opponent Katie Saull seems to have upgraded her fight game as well and will be bringing a three fight winning streak of her own into the cage.  How do you see this fight playing out?

JAYME HINSHAW – “How I see this fight going is with me getting my hand raised at the end of the day.  I’m on a winning streak and don’t plan on slowing down anytime soon. We both are going to go into that cage at our best so I know its going to be a great fight. But like I said before I see myself winning either by KO, TKO, or by submission.“

Tommy V. – You have spent your WMMA pro career as an atomweight, do you see yourself moving up and taking a try at strawweight someday?

JAYME HINSHAW – “Yes I have spent my whole MMA career in the atomweight division the only time I went up to strawweight was just to fill in when a girl had pulled out and they needed someone.  I was down to fight because I didn’t have to cut any weight due to me fighting at atomweight just six days prior.  It was in my amateur career so it was just about getting more experience and me just wanting to fight.  Now that I’m in my pro career I don’t feel it will be in my best interest to go to strawweight.  I sit in and out of fight camp below 120 lbs.  My weight is even on the low side compared to most of the atomweights.  I believe I can hang with most strawweights on the skill set aspect but wouldn’t want to go up and get beat by that lay and pray BS.”

This championship contest has everything needed to be an exciting fight.  Both Hinshaw and Saull are at the top of their fight game and are guaranteed to provide high level action.  This is an atomweight match up the crowd at the Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino will remember.

QUEEN MMA MEDIA

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By: Thomas Vickers (MMA – Journalist)

QUEEN MMA MEDIA

ANDREA “Renegade” HOWLAND: An up and coming WMMA amateur

“My children and the opportunity to give them a better life.  I believe they deserve an extraordinary sense of security and freedom.  I am not going to stop until I give it to them.” – ANDREA “Renegade” HOWLAND

Andrea “Renegade” Howland is off to an impressive start in the cage with an undefeated amateur record of (2 – 0).  The “Renegade” is developing and evolving nicely.  Andrea understands the hard work, dedication, and grit needed to prosper in the competitive world of mixed martial arts.  She is a mother of two young children who is not afraid of a big challenge.  Andrea is aware of what it takes to make it in the Women’s Mixed Martial Arts fight game and seems quite ready and prepared to give it her all.   The twenty-nine year old Howland made her amateur debut against Ashley Dominic under the promotion of Big John’s MMA in April of 2018.  Howland dominated the matchup with her reach advantage.  She executed good power in her punching and delivered numerous hard striking leg kicks.  In the first round Andrea used her strength to toss Dominic around with relative ease.  Despite having Dominic in trouble early, the bout ended with a one-sided unanimous decision.  The natural nerves of a debut did seem to show but there is little doubt that Howland will continue to evolve in a positive direction.  In August of 2018 the “Renegade” captured her second victory, a hard fought split decision over a formidable and undefeated amateur in Atty Belanger at WXC 73.  Queen MMA Media caught up with WMMA amateur bantamweight Andrea “Renegade” Howland for some Q & A.

Tommy V. – How would you describe yourself as a fighter?

ANDREA HOWLAND – “I believe I am more calculating then most developing fighters.  I try to utilize my mental strength before my physical.  Sometimes I think that helps me and sometimes I wish I was more impulsive and aggressive.  I think I identify with striking as it seems to come more naturally.”

Tommy V. – What motivates you?

ANDREA HOWLAND – “My children and the opportunity to give them a better life.  I believe they deserve an extraordinary sense of security and freedom.  I am not going to stop until I give it to them.”

Tommy V. – What or who do you look towards for inspiration?

ANDREA HOWLAND – “I think the idea of not reaching my goals is threatening in itself to inspire me to keep me going.  However, I do draw inspiration from my teammates who all have different circumstances and struggles.  It’s nice to identify with their journey and look at how we all have to overcome hardships to get where we want to be.”

Tommy V. – You are one of many quality WMMA fighters out of Michigan.  Would you agree there is a sizable cluster of female fighters coming out of the Michigan area – such names as Calie Cutler and Cora Thomason to name a few?  And why?

ANDREA HOWLAND – “It’s an honor to be considered amongst a group with those names.  I’ve been watching girls like Calie and Cora since before I started training knowing that I wanted to follow in their footsteps.  So to have the opportunity to train alongside them now is a blessing.  I think the talent has always been here in Michigan but we craved a platform to be seen and recognized.  I think this is the turning of the tide and we are going to make sure that people recognize what we offer to the sport not only in Michigan but also on a national scale.”

Tommy V. – Your October 13, 2018 fight for Lights Out Promotions was cancelled, can you enlighten my readers as to why?

ANDREA HOWLAND – “The promotion was told by my opponent, Melissa Acosta, that she had “Preexisting injuries” that would not allow her to gain medical clearance on her physical.  To be honest, I was disappointed in her actions because this news came only a week out from the fight.  It would have been appreciated to know sooner in attempt to salvage the opportunity and find another girl.  Whether she truly was injured or not, I feel her communication was lacking and it was disrespectful to myself as well as Lights Out Championship.  I, in no way, have interest in working with her in the future.”

Tommy V. – Being a mom of two children do you see this as a plus or negative as a fighter?

ANDREA HOWLAND – “I absolutely see it as a plus. Overall, it adds more challenges when it comes to training, but it produces a sense of urgency and a fire inside of me that I doubt I would have without my children in my life. I know that I must make it work because I am dedicating so much time to the sport and taking that time away from children. That fact alone gives me a drive to make sure I make the most of my investments. I feel that pressure is a good thing for me specifically even if it’s not for others.”

Tommy V. – It is my understanding you are developing nicely – however you have been trying to focus on improving the ability to relax in the cage. Working on trying not to be tense. How is this coming along for you?

ANDREA HOWLAND – “Actually, I feel I am becoming more relaxed which is great, but I feel I need to turn up the aggression. I am finding it is a balance to have a sense of calm but at the same time harness explosiveness. In my next matchup I hope to showcase this phase of my development.” 

Tommy V. – What made you decide to step into the cage?

ANDREA HOWLAND – “I am a competitor at heart. I always have been. Mixed Martial Arts to me was the ultimate challenge based off of what I have seen in athletics previously. I honestly could not resist. I look for new things to try because I have the confidence that I am good at most of what I put my mind to. I just now face the question of what I am meant to be great at. I believe MMA has brought that desire out of me and I want to pursue this career until it no longer makes sense and I accomplish everything I set out to do.”

Tommy V. – At 2-0 as an amateur with wins over Atty Belanger and Ashley Dominic who or what’s next for you?

ANDREA HOWLAND – “That’s a hard question to answer. In Michigan or in the Midwest there seems to be a new wave of competitors in my division. I am still becoming familiar with all the promotions in my regional area and the new faces of competition. I think the next steps for me are to develop as an athlete and keep my eyes open for the next big opportunity. I said when I started in MMA I wanted to fight frequently. I have been in a fight camp this entire year until now. I plan to take time to get my family safely through the winter months and then look for my next matchup at the beginning of 2019. At that point I do not plan on letting off the gas until around this time next year. So I am excited to see what the future holds.” 

Tommy V. – Who or what fighter(s) do you admire in the cage if any and why?

ANDREA HOWLAND – “My heart and respect will always be with any parents that compete or train. I just identify with that lifestyle. However, if I had to be specific I don’t think there are fighters I necessarily look up to but I have respect for their skillsets and efforts. I will say, the fighters that go out of their way to promote themselves and take advantage of the business side of the sport I try to watch closely and follow their lead. I think many MMA fighters misunderstand that they are in an entertainment business and if you want to make this thing work you must play that part.” 

Tommy V. – What advice would you share if any with a new amateur looking to enter the cage?

ANDREA HOWLAND – “You have to train for a significant amount of time and test yourself on the mats over and over again before you make the conscious decision to take a fight. Get punched in the face, take body kicks, make a teammate literally overwhelm you in sparring, grapple until you’re exhausted, etc. I think mentally challenging yourself is so much more important than having the skillsets. You can always develop new striking or learn jiu-jitsu but if you’re not mentally prepared you can have a bad experience prematurely and it can delay your competition life. I had to prove some of those things to myself before I even starting looking for a matchup.”

Tommy V. – Where do you want your WMMA career to be this time next year?

ANDREA HOWLAND – “I want to look at back at 2019 and see at least 3 to 4 successful fight camps. To be more specific I want 3 to 4 solid finishes this next year. If I get more than that I’ll be ecstatic. I also want to see my teammates fighting frequently and finding success as well. I want to move forward as a unit.” 

Tommy V. – Is turning pro a future goal for you?

ANDREA HOWLAND – “Absolutely. It has been the goal from the beginning. 5 to 7 finishes is my goal before I even look at the pro ranks. I don’t know how many fights that will take but it is important to me to know I can end fights and I can do it in numerous circumstances. That is my focus and goal for 2019. No decisions.” 

Tommy V. – Feel free to add any shout-outs to sponsorship, coaches, and so forth.

ANDREA HOWLAND – “Thank you to my teams: Michigan Top Team and Bushido Mixed Martial Arts Ypsilanti. I would like to thank my sponsors: Never Tap Canada, Dank Inovations, Shakers Bar & Grill, Bad Chicks MMA, MMA Roadhog, JustBU360, IronJaw Custom Mouthguards, & Fighter Alias. Your support means a great deal to me. I have no idea where I would be without you.”

Cover Photo – Jennings Photography

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“Experience means nothing when you’re getting punched in the face.. .” – SHAWNA ‘Bam Bam’ ORMSBY

By: Thomas Vickers (MMA – Journalist)

QUEEN MMA MEDIA

SHAWNA “Bam Bam’ ORMSBY: Hungry for another win at KING OF THE CAGE

(Queen MMA Media) – Shawna ‘Bam Bam’ Ormsby is set to fight Melissa ‘Magic’ Karagianis Saturday October 13, 2018 under the KOTC promotional banner in Hanover, Maryland.  Karagianis is a former King of the Cage atomweight champion looking to get back on the winning track.

It began years ago for Shawna Ormsby when a friend who trained in mixed martial arts and Brazilian jiu jitsu got her watching Ronda Rousey and Miesha Tate on TUF.

“I had no idea women did this and seeing their hard work and dedication being put in is what drew me to the sport,” explained Ormsby.  “I respected it so much.  I knew I wanted to work my way into the cage and ring.“

Shawna “Bam Bam” Ormsby started training at the age of twenty-one years old and took her first fight only two months later.

“I only did tae kwon do for about a year when I was younger,” explained Shawna.

In a five year span of time Shawna achieved three amateur titles in kickboxing and muay thai, a International Sport Karate and Kickboxing Association world title, a International Kickboxing Federation world title, a WSDKA state title, and a few gold’s in NAGA Gi and Nogi competitions.  Her accolades clearly document she is not new to combat sports and hosts an expanding skill set.  Ormsby is currently a purple belt in jiu jitsu under Professor Rinaldo Santos a fifth degree black belt under Carlson Gracie.

Shawna brings a Brazilian jiu jitsu and muay thai style along with a 1 – 0 professional record into the cage.  The twenty-six year old atomweight  fights out of Orlando, Florida and will be looking for another win under the King of the Cage promotional banner.  Shawna made her pro debut with KOTC back in April of this year, a unanimous decision victory over Kelly Vilarino.

Shawna acquired six fights of experience as an amateur inside the MMA cage, facing notable competition including the WMMA atomweight prospect Lindsey Vanzandt, who in early September fought under the Invicta Fighting Championships banner.  As an amateur Ormsby has fought under numerous promotional banners including KOTC, Valor Fights, and the WCFC before turning pro.

Ormsby points out that one of the highest moments of her MMA career was being signed by King of the Cage promotions, one of the oldest organizations in the sport.

“I fought at their world amateur championship to win a contract.  I lost my fight to an extremely tough opponent but because of my performance the president of the company personally gave me a contract right after the show,” explained Shawna.  “He saw something in me and I am forever grateful!”

MMA Journalist Tommy V. of QUEEN MMA MEDIA caught up with ‘Bam Bam’ Ormsby for a few quick questions.

Tommy V. – What made you decide to turn professional?

SHAWNA ORMSBY – “Since the day I started training with my coach Joe Caballero. Almost five years ago our ultimate goal was to become pro.  I said that’s what I want.  I love training and learning.  The fact that we get to travel all over the world and meet people who have the same crazy passion as us makes it the best job in the world.  Fighting has changed me so much.  I couldn’t imagine giving this sport up.  I’m no quitter and if I say I’m gonna do something I will stop at nothing to achieve it no matter the battles between.”

Tommy V. – How would you describe yourself as a fighter?

SHAWNA ORMSBY – “I would call myself an unpredictable fighter.  I go into fights and they think oh she’s tiny I’ll run right through her, then they feel my power.  They’ll think I’m just a jiu jitsu fighter then I leave giant hematomas on their face.  Then they think I have no jiu jitsu and I snatch something crazy.  I’ve adapted my body to do whatever I want it to do.  You’ll always see a brand new ‘Bam Bam’ every fight.“

Tommy V. – Where do you gain your or look for your inspiration and motivation?

SHAWNA ORMSBY – “My inspiration and motivation first is my family but especially my baby nephew.  He idols me and copies everything I do so I need to be a good figure for him.  My other inspirations are my clients.  I train young girls as young as five, young boys to older women and men.  They get so excited to see my hard work in the cage and they trust me to train them.  That makes me work one thousand times harder than obsessing over a world championship.”

Tommy V. – Melissa Karagianis is a former KOTC atomweight champion and has a considerable amount of professional experience, how do you see this fight playing out?

SHAWNA ORMSBY – “Experience means nothing when you’re getting punched in the face.  I have a total of thirty fights amateur kickboxing, mauy thai, and MMA.  My heart for the game will overpower her and I will dominate.“

Tommy V. – In my opinion a strong victory over Karagianis would put you at the doorstep of the KOTC atomweight championship strap.

SHAWNA ORMSBY – “Once I’ve beaten Melissa I’m looking to take on Andy Nguyen right after.  If the KOTC wants to see me take the belt after we will give them the thumps up.”

Shawna ‘Bam Bam’ Ormsby is a fighter you do not want to underestimate.  She has a well rounded fight game and is continuously evolving.  It would seem there is no doubt Ormsby is a hungry fighter on a mission in the atomweight division.

SHAWNA ORMSBY – “Huge shout out first to my coach Joe Caballero for putting up with me these past five years and many more!  A huge thank you and love to all my sponsors who’ve made this all possible for me; Cryonext Integrative Healthcare, Price Boxing, Red Eye Sports Tavern, Hurricane Bingo, Urban Stylez, Fighter Alias, Stefanos Trattoria, Trade Web, Tiger Tail, Aggressive Design, and my future sponsors!  A big thank you to American Top Team Orlando with Professor Paul Rodriguez and his wife Caroline for allowing us to use their gym for training during this fight camp.  I can’t forget my Carlson Gracie family at Carlson Gracie Central Florida and my Carlson Gracie family all over the world.  TEAM BAM BAM IS TAKING OVER!”

For more info – http://www.kingofthecage.com

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By: Thomas Vickers (MMA – Journalist)

QUEEN MMA MEDIA 

MELISSA ‘Magic’ KARAGIANIS SET TO FACE SHAWNA ‘Bam Bam’ ORMSBY

WMMA Pro – ATOMWEIGHT SHOWDOWN

(Queen MMA Media) – Melissa ‘Magic’ Karagianis is scheduled to fight Shawna ‘Bam Bam’ Ormsby Saturday October 13, 2018 under the King of the Cage (KOTC) promotional banner, in what is shaping up to be a very exciting Atomweight match up.  Ormsby is a hungry atomweight out of Orlando, Florida with a 1 – 0 pro record.

Karagianis has been involved with martial arts since she was a young child.  She began with tae kwon do then in her early twenties she started to learn muay thai. Melissa competed in muay thai for a few years before deciding that MMA was for her.

 

“I thought that MMA would be well suited for my aggressive style,” Melissa explained.  “Shortly after the transition I got offered my first MMA fight and the rest was history.”

Melissa fights out of Toronto, Canada and host a 3 – 4 record as a professional.  She is a veteran of the King of the Cage promotion with considerable experience in the cage. Karagianis turned pro in 2015, making her pro debut against Andy Nguyen for the Caribbean Ultimate Fist Fighting (CUFF) catchweight (112 lbs) title, with the cage side judges awarding her the title win via a split decision.

Above Photographs – LEFT – Melissa ‘Magic’ Karagianis holding title belt while reigning as the King of the Cage Atomweight champion.  RIGHT – Karagianis dropping fist bombs from above on Andy Nguyen during CUFF title match in 2015.

The thirty year old Karagianis is looking to turn around a tough two fight losing streak.

MMA Journalist Tommy V. of Queen MMA Media caught up with Melissa for a few quick questions.

Tommy V – Winning is always important, however with that said you are coming off back to back losses, how much more important is winning to you in this fight?

Melissa Karagianis – “I always train very hard for my fights and go in there to win.  I’ve been fighting top level competition so I take those fights / losses as huge learning experiences.  I don’t feel any more extra pressure.  I’m going to go into that cage being the best version of myself.”

Tommy V. – You won the King of the Cage Atomweight title against Andy Nguyen in August of 2017 by way of unanimous decision.  You lost the title in your first defense to Jayme Hinshaw in November of 2017.  You are an established veteran in the KOTC promotion.  If you can overcome Ormsby do you see yourself going after the KOTC Atomweight title again?

Melissa Karagianis – “I definitely would love to fight for the KOTC title again.”

Tommy V. – You recently fought under the RIZIN promotional banner where you took a three round decision loss against a reputable and upper caliber opponent Kanna Asakura.  What did you gain during the experience?  Do you feel you will be returning to KOTC an improved fighter?

Melissa Karagianis – “Fighting for RIZIN was one of the most amazing experiences. Fighting the number 6th Atomweight in the world on such a huge platform will allow you to grow as a fighter in so many ways.”

The former KOTC Atomweight champion does not take any opponent lightly.  She is training hard and plans to bring her ‘A’ game and expects Ormsby to do the same. Karagianis will be looking to work her ‘Magic’ inside the cage and walk away with the ‘W’.  The atomweight fight is set to go down in Hanover, Maryland.  (For more information – http://www.kingofthecage.com)

“I guarantee this will be an exciting ding that you won’t want to miss!” finished Melissa Karagianis.

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By: Thomas Vickers (MMA – Journalist)

QUEEN MMA MEDIA

“I am a pressure fighter.  I like to keep moving forward and not give my opponent any time to think,” – VICTORIA “Fury” LEONARDO

(Queen MMA Media) – Victoria “Fury” Leonardo is set to battle Miranda Maverick September 1, 2018 at Invicta FC 31 in Kansas City, Missouri.

Victoria Leonardo is a real deal flyweight prospect.  She began fighting as an amateur in May of 2015 and went on to gain quality experience and produce a 6 – 2 – 1 amateur record.  Victoria is off to an outstanding professional start.  Her most recent fight – a win over Salina Rowland, a highly praised amateur star turned pro at Legacy Fighting Alliance 46.  Her pro debut – a victory by way of rear naked choke submission in the first round against Hailey Cowan at LFA 40.

“A lot of people counted me out in those two fights,” explained Leonardo.  “Especially the first one.  I wasn’t surprised, though I knew I could win both of those fights.“

Victoria believes her stand up is better than what she has demonstrated in her first two pro fights.  Noting how she dealt with a considerable reach disadvantage in both matches.  “I still have a lot I feel like I haven’t shown in the cage but am very capable of doing,” Leonardo continued.

“I am a pressure fighter.  I like to keep moving forward and not give my opponent any time to think,” explained Victoria.

Leonardo fights out of Brent Mason’s Elite Combat Academy located in Shreveport, Louisiana.  Victoria owns and operates Elite Combat Academy alongside her husband Brent Mason who is an accomplished Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practitioner.  Victoria has fought consistently between 125 lbs – 135 lbs both as an amateur and a pro.  “I believe flyweight is the place for me.  It is perfect for the weight I walk at,” explained Victoria.

 

 

VICTORIA ‘Fury’ LEONARDO – “I really pull inspiration from many different fighters and places.  My husband and I are always watching fights with a studious mindset.  He constantly points out things that he thinks I could use or do better at.  I like to look at fighters that have similar builds  and reach as me.  I watch a lot of different fighters from all weight classes looking for things I can use.  For example when I watched the Daniel Cormier – Stipe fight, I was inspired by his dirty boxing knock-out.  When Stipe went for the under hook in the pummel, DC let him so he could collar tie and throw hooks on the other side, which led to the knock-out.  The next time I went to the gym I immediately started training that technique. While I didn’t get the knock-out my last fight, there is a moment in the last half of the third round where I have Salina on the cage and I felt her get that under hook and I collar tied to the head and landed an uppercut and a hook on the other side.  I was really proud when I went back and watched that because its something I got from watching DC and was able to implement the very next time I fought.”

Tommy V. – Do you anticipate Miranda Maverick being your biggest test to date in the cage?

VICTORIA ‘Fury’ LEONARDO – “This is definitely the biggest opportunity to date for me.  In some respects I think Maverick is my biggest test against someone who fights similar to the way I do.  I really haven’t faced a lot of opponents that are grappling minded.  However she isn’t the biggest or strongest opponent I’ve faced and I don’t see her being as technical a striker as my last opponent.“

With each match Leonardo is becoming more and more relaxed.  She is progressing at a strong rate and her fight game continues to evolve.

The twenty-one year old Maverick enters the cage with a 3 – 1 pro record.  She is looking to bounce back from a split decision loss to Brogan Sanchez in July of 2018 at Invicta FC 30.  Maverick fights out of Missouri and has fought all four of her professional bouts under the Invicta FC banner.  She has gained victories over notable fighters such as Gabby Romero and hard charging Kal Schwartz.

This is a great match up.  If you are wondering which of these two warriors will walk away with the ‘W’, the answer is simple the one who wants it the most.  The one with the greatest hunger, and Victoria ‘Fury’ Leonardo is a very hungry fighter.  There is little doubt that this flyweight bout will be hard fought and laced with serious excitement.  Leonardo vs Maverick is just one of many spectacular bouts set for the September 1, 2018 Invicta FC 31 card.  Do not miss this card!

“I’d like to thank the Lord for his many blessings and opportunities he has put in my path.  I would like to thank my amazing sponsors; Mike Tilton’s Plumping, Denny Brown’s Dent repair and Downhome Sausage.  They are more than just sponsors they are big fans of mine too.  My coaches are awesome because they always tell me like it is and are pushing me to get better, especially my husband (heart).

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By: Thomas Vickers (MMA – Journalist)

QUEEN MMA MEDIA

MMA journalist Tommy V. caught up with Shino VanHoose, an exciting atomweight, for a quick one on one interview.  VanHoose has produced a 6 – 5 professional record facing such big names in the sport as Seo Hee Ham, Amber Brown, and Kikuyo Ishikawa.  VanHoose has tremendous experience for a twenty-three year old atomweight having fought under the promotional banners of Jewels, Pancrase, Road FC, Intense Championship Fighting, Real Fighting Championships, Front Street Fights, and Invicta Fighting Championship.

Tommy V – Can you share some of your martial arts combat sports background?

SHINO – “I started out doing jiu jitsu when I was about six or seven years old.  My parents have always been martial arts fans so they threw me and my brothers in at a young age.  As we got older we started finding other martial arts like judo and muay thai.  Before you know it we started putting everything together and our MMA journey began.”

Tommy V – How would you describe yourself as a fighter?

SHINO – “I would describe myself as a risk.  I’m young in the game but I’ve also had a lot of experience for my age.  I think a lot of people sometimes look at me as an easy fight because my record is almost even, but if you really look at those losses they were all to top ranked fighters at the time and I was a teenager for most of those fights with a lot to still learn.  I think I’m finally starting to figure my own fight style out and becoming more and more dangerous.”

Tommy V – What made you decide to become a WMMA fighter?

SHINO – “Like I said earlier, I’ve been doing martial arts since I was a young girl, so being twenty-three now I’ve spent almost seventeen years on the mats and it is what I’ve put the most time into.  So when WMMA started coming up and girls like Gina Carano, Cris Cyborg, Ronda Rousey and Miesha Tate were becoming popular, I knew I owed it to myself and my parents for all the time and money we’ve put into it already to really see how far I can take this.”

Tommy V – You are an amazing athlete.  You turned pro back in 2011 and now at the age of twenty-three years you have compiled twelve pro WMMA fights, what has been the highest moment of your professional career in the cage?  Why?

SHINO – “For me, the highest moment of my pro career was probably my first win in the biggest WMMA promotion in the world.  I turned pro at sixteen back in 2011, that was before Invicta FC was even a promotion.  Once they established Invicta, I knew it was where I wanted to be because I could tell they were going to have the highest female talents.  So when my dream since I was seventeen became reality, and I got my first win in Invicta it became so real to me that I’m actually capable of becoming a champion and making this a career.”

Tommy V – Who has been your toughest opponent to date as a pro?  Why?

SHINO – “This is an interesting question for me because I’ve fought so many top ranked people but it was actually the fight with Jenny Silverio in Florida that made me realize how much I needed to work on my mental game and confidence.  My family had just moved across the world for the military and it was the first camp I had without them telling me what I needed to do, how much I needed to train, what I needed to eat, that I put so much pressure on myself to “Not lose” and forgot to tell myself I was capable of winning.  It was a mentally challenging fight but it helped me realize I needed to grow up and start figuring things out on my own.”

Tommy V – The bout between Alesha Zappitella and you had been cancelled, it was my understanding you had pulled out with a reported injury.  Could you clarify as to why the Invicta FC match up had been scrapped?

SHINO – “I had to pull out of the fight with Alesha because I had suffered a complete ACL tear.  Surgery and physical therapy are the next steps for me to recovery.”

Tommy V – I am guessing you saw the Invicta FC fight between Zappitella and DeCoursey.  Jillian DeCoursey stepping up on short notice to fill in.  Was the outcome of that fight what you expected?

SHINO – “Yes I definitely tuned in for that fight.  I honestly didn’t know how it was going to go but I knew that Alesha was going to be very prepared and DeCoursey was going to be making her work.  It was a great fight.”

Tommy V – You are coming off a big win at Invicta Fighting Championship 25 back in August of 2017 a year ago.  A split decision victory over a then 3 – 0 Alyse Anderson, an extremely challenging and notable opponent who recently just defeated Stephanie Alba.  Were you surprised by Anderson’s win over Alba?  Do you expect considerable cage rust next time you step into the cage?

SHINO – “I knew she was going to be hungry for a win after our fight so I didn’t have doubt she would come out on top.  She definitely looked ready and super happy for her!  How she won with that flying triangle was for sure surprising!  Haha very impressive.  As for ring rust, I don’t think it’ll be there.  I’m trying to take this time to work on myself better than I ever have so I can be physically and mentally the strongest I’ve ever been so I’ll be brand new, like I never left.”

Tommy V – Many in the fight industry feel the Atomweights are growing in talent and number.  I myself am among them.  Atomweights seem to be slowly battling their way on to the main stage.  Do you agree?  Why?  And do you see the UFC creating an Atomweight division in the future?

SHINO – “Oh of course I agree.  It used to be so hard to find opponents and that’s why I’ve fought so many top ranked people at a young age.  There was nobody else!  Now I’m fighting and getting matched up with girls my own age so it’s exciting to be part of that growth.  I also feel like the UFC will have no choice but to bring the Atomweights in.  They’ve already brought so many Atomweights up to the 115 lbs division.  They can’t bring all of us up.  I think finally crowning an Atomweight champion will help with that decision.”

Tommy V – What is on your horizon?  Do you have a fight in the works?

SHINO – “As of now all I’m focusing on is healing up and having a smooth recovery.  You guys will see me back.  Thank you.  I loved those questions!!”

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By: Thomas Vickers (MMA – Journalist)

QUEEN MMA MEDIA

“I have plans in this sport, and I’m preparing to not let anyone get in my way,” – JULIE RUSSELL

(QUEEN MMA MEDIA) – August 15, 2018 –  Julie Russell and Chantel Coates are scheduled to collide in an amateur flyweight battle September 22, 2018 at Kansas City Fighting Alliance 30.

Two amateur champions will meet at KCFA 30.  Julie Russell is the current Ogitchidaa promotion amateur strawweight champion and Chantel Coates is the current Blue Corner promotions amateur bantamweight champion.  The KCFA flyweight battle will not be for a championship despite both fighters holding a title belt in other promotions.

Chantel Coates is coming down from bantamweight 135 lbs for the fight.  Coates fights out of Missouri and brings a 2 – 0 amateur MMA record into the cage.  She is an experienced kick boxer and will be hunting for her third victory.

Julie Russell is going up in weight from strawweight 115 lbs for the bout.  “Going up in weight is awesome because I can eat more,” explained Russell with a laugh.  “But it takes away my size advantage,” she added.  “I’m a big strawweight.“

Julie is 6 – 2 as an amateur mixed martial artist.  She is a fierce competitor who brings the heat with four of her six amateur wins coming by way of KO/TKO.  Her only losses coming to notable WMMA fighter now pro Linsey “Wonder Woman” Williams back in March of 2016 and Miranda Maverick in December of 2015.  Miranda Maverick has gone on to produce an outstanding 3 – 1 professional record under the Invicta Fighting Championship promotional banner.

“Going into the fight I’m training all I can.  Whether it being my regular MMA classes or strength conditioning, or even one on one coaching sessions with my coach.  I love to fight.  MMA is one of the best things I’ve ever done for myself,” explained Julie.  “In that cage is when I feel the most alive.“

“Chantel is a good fighter,” expressed Russell.  “She may have only two MMA fights but she’s had plenty of kick boxing fights.”  Russell believes it will be a good match up and a tough fight.  She feels she has come a long way as a fighter since her last fight as a flyweight.  “I have plans in this sport, and I’m preparing to not let anyone get in my way,” finished Russell.

This flyweight match up looks to be a close competitive war.

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“I am ready for it.  I have no choice, and that’s what makes me dangerous,” – BRITAIN HART

MMA journalist and entrepreneur Thomas Vickers caught up with the attractive and hard hitting BRITAIN HART for a quick interview before her upcoming bare knuckle fight.  Hart is scheduled to face off against tough as iron “Rowdy” BEC RAWLINGS at Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship 2 in Biloxi, Mississippi on August 25, 2018.

By: Thomas Vickers (MMA – Journalist)

QUEEN MMA MEDIA

BRITAIN HART  vs  “Rowdy” BEC RAWLINGS

I generally only do media coverage on Woman’s Mixed Martial Arts for Queen MMA Media however this fight grabbed my attention.  What gained my interest even more than the fight was Britain Hart.

Britain Hart will be toeing the line as they say in the sport of bare knuckle against “Rowdy” Bec Rawlings an Australian mixed martial artist and bare knuckle boxer. Rawlings defeated Alma Garcia at the first Bare Knuckle FC event held June 2, 2018. Battered and bloody Alma was unable to answer the bell for round two.  Rawlings is a UFC and Invicta FC veteran who always brings heavy slugging fireworks and a no back down attitude to a fight.

Tommy V. – What made you decide to take the Bare Knuckle 2 fight against Bec Rawlings?

BRITAIN HART – “I was asked about Bare Knuckle and I said I really wanted to focus on just perfecting boxing so I kept it in my back pocket.  I had some new things going on like a fight in New Jersey.”

(On February 6th of 2018 Hart had battled Sacred Downing in a professional boxing match held at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey.)

BRITAIN HART – “Well the opportunity kept presenting itself and was almost like it was a sign and timing was perfect.  I finally decided to take it when I realized who I was and that I would be denying my person the characteristics that make me Britain.”  

Tommy V. – I am guessing that you are aware of your said opponent Bec Rawlings’ experience in MMA as well as her win at Bare Knuckle One.  How do you see yourself matching up?

BRITAIN HART – “I am aware of her and she went two rounds with her opponent and protected the clinch.  Opponent didn’t know what to do.  I do.  We are both aggressive pressure fighters.  Should be exactly what the people want.”  

Tommy V. – It is my understanding you have some boxing experience, can you share in more depth?

BRITAIN HART – “I am a pro boxer.  Currently 2 – 3 but don’t let that fool you.  It’s just experience.  First two were KO’s at 120 lbs.  My manager made me take a third fight that I did not want to on three day notice.  It was at 135 lbs against a world champ and coached and cornered by none the less Roy Jones Jr. I lost in decision.  If I would have trained and have known… the outcome would have been different.  Two weeks later yet again I was made to fight a world champ and at 130 lbs.  I walk around at 125 lbs.  I do not want to make excuses but I had some pretty horrible circumstances at the time that made me go in completely alone and mindset… Well I learned how important a clear and healthy mind means.  Finally my fifth fight was against a very seasoned and amazing amateur.  Sacred Downing was optimal though because she was my weight 122 lbs, at about a month notice.  After numerous cancelled fights and tough time trying to find female fighters I decided I fight for more than a record, life, or money.  I fight to see where I’m at in my own life.  I fight for something bigger than me… to show them anyone can become and overcome anything.  I’ll never do that beating someone who is less or under me.  I will do it by beating someone who is better and above me because to be a champion you have to beat one.”

Tommy V. – What do you think of bare knuckle as an organized sport?  Do you see it becoming popular? And why?

BRITAIN HART – “I think BK fighting is the root of organized sport in America.  As a sport management degree holder I have a strong passion and love for sports.  When the colonists first came to America they organized these fights and it helped set a precedent of what people find common grounds and entertainment in.  I think BK will be the next big thing and look for it to truly grow and dominate the sport entertainment industry.”

Tommy V. – BK is a much different beast then MMA and boxing.  The forehead is perhaps the hardest bone in the human body.  Many hands have been destroyed on such things.  Would you agree bare knuckle is considerably different and are you ready for it?

BRITAIN HART – “I would agree that it’s different to a point.  Damage is damage.  A kick and elbow hurt too.  A street or bar fight usually involves bare fists… but being a strategic fighter is where it’s not different.  You learn to overcome it.  Don’t hit the forehead.  Dually noted.”

Tommy V. – How do you see the fight playing out?

BRITAIN HART – “I am ready for it.  I have no choice, and that’s what makes me dangerous.  I am a survivor.  A true survivor.  We all fall and get pushed up on ropes, but the choice to rise and overcome it is only one step.  You have to still keep going.  I used to think I have nothing to lose on this fight coming in to fight a well seasoned and known UFC fighter but now it’s been made bigger than me.  Well I have so much to gain, and to prove to the world.  I truly want to change the world for the better.  To show that greatness is in the shape of hard work, equality, and light and love and not in shape of money, social status, and in dark and evil.  I will do more than survive this. And that’s my last statement.”

Britain stands before a challenge the size of a mountain.  I admire her courage and spirit.  She has the grit and can throw a punch.  If she pulls off a victory it would truly be a win heard round the world.

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By: Thomas Vickers (MMA – Journalist)

QUEEN MMA MEDIA

(QUEEN MMA MEDIA) – Samantha Seff and Crystal Van Wyk are set to clash at 864 Fighting Championships Fight V on July 21, 2018 in Greenville, South Carolina.

Samantha “Wolf Queen” Seff

Samantha “Wolf Queen” Seff is an aggressive amateur with a record of 3 – 1.  She has been accumulating experience since entering the amateur cage in August of 2016 where she won her debut by way of first round finish over Nina Goode.  Samantha is coming off a three round unanimous decision win against Carma Radford back in January of 2018.  The “Wolf Queen” trains in kickboxing, muay thai, wrestling, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.  “I come from a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu school run by a world champion,” stated Seff.

Samantha is a purple belt in BJJ and hosts several instructor certifications.  She fights out of North Carolina and has fought under the promotional banners of Virgina Cage FC, XFP, and USFFC.  She describes herself as an aggressive and relentless fighter who is goal driven.

“Fighting has been a lifelong dream,” explained Samantha.  She looks towards her family, teammates, and from deep within for inspiration.  “I am definitely getting better with each progression,” she continued.  Seff is happy with how she has been moving along but is quick to add she will never be satisfied, “There is always room for improvement.”

Seff’s only loss as an amateur came by way of a decision in October of 2017 against Sydney Smith for the then vacant Virginia Cage FC strawweight amateur title belt.

“I have wanted to fight since my early teens,” explained Seff.  “Figured not many people are lucky enough to pursue their dreams so I will chase mine as hard as I can or die trying.  I don’t half ass anything, so I will keep pushing towards the top fully assed and ready to persevere.  I won’t work this hard to come up short or give up on myself.  I owe everyone much more than that,” explained Seff.

Seff plans to turn professional someday.  “I plan on taking on more opponents and challenging myself to improve as a fighter and as a person.  No one said it would be easy, but it will be well worth it,”  she explained.

In close, I asked Samantha if she had any shout outs or thanks she wanted to give. “I couldn’t do it without my school Schell Shock BJJ run by Professor John Schell and under my team Rubao Carioca who I have the utmost respect for, my stand up coach Josh Robinson has propelled my game to the next level by a significant amount, all my teammates who force me to do better everyday, my sponsors Karhn Strength & Conditioning, Kontenders Poker, Pro Jitsu, Clirty Eats, Warrior Wellness Solutions, Jimmy’s Auto, Patterson Enterprises and Cageside & Toro BJJ, lastly and most important is how hard I will work to set an example for my boyfriend’s two kids Jacob and Aaliyah making them proud means the world to me.“

“The Lovely” CRYSTAL VAN WYK 

Crystal Van Wyk fights out of North Carolina and trains in South Carolina.  She has produced an amateur record of 1 – 2 and is coming off a KO/TKO win over Juli Levine in December of 2017.  Van Wyk considers herself to be a well rounded fighter who likes to keep the fight striking.   Crystal had been a qualified group fitness instructor before moving to the United States from South Africa.

“My husband inspired me to do MMA,” explained Van Wyk.  She then asked her husband who was teaching MMA to help her learn.  “I moved to the United States and was not allowed to teach so I went to train at the UFC gym and my husband Hentie Van Wyk trained me up from scratch and that is how it all started.”

“I started my mixed martial arts journey knowing only grappling,” stated Van Wyk.  “I was in an only jiu jitsu school for a long time and competed in several competitions before transitioning to a mixed martial arts school.” Crystal feels she is improving everyday she is in the gym.  “There is so much to learn when you work hard and put time and effort into one thing,” Van Wyk explained.

Crystal Van Wyk believes she has noticed definite growth in her fight game since making the transition over to Modern Warrior, where she currently trains.  “It was the best decision I ever made going to an all MMA school.  Keith Richardson is a very skilled and experienced fighter and coach.  He has taught me so much,” continued Van Wyk. Crystal is not shy in the cage.  She is quick to engage her opponent and a good scrambler on the ground.  Van Wyk is a scrappy adversary who would is capable of being a challenge for any amateur atomweight in the sport.

Van Wyk wants to turn professional in the future when she feels she has gained enough experience.  In close Crystal would like to send a thank you to her coaches Keith Richardson, Duke Reeves and Hentie Van Wyk.  “I would not be where I am if they didn’t believe in me,” Crystal finished.

Fight fans should expect to see a good match up on July 21, 2018 at 864 Fighting Championships between Crystal Van Wyk and Sami Seff.  Both of these amateurs are pushing towards improvement and eager to prove themselves in the cage.

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HANNAH “Queen of Sparta” GOLDY  VS  LISA “Insane” BLAINE

PREMIER FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP 26
FIGHT of the NIGHT: Told in Photographs

QUEEN MMA MEDIA  

(Queen MMA Media) – On June 16, 2018 at the Sheraton Hotel Monarch Place in Springfield, Massachusetts Hannah “Queen of Sparta” Goldy and Lisa “Insane” Blaine matched up in an action packed professional Women’s Mixed Martial Arts flyweight bout in what became the “Fight of the Night” at PREMIER FC 26.

Photographs courtesy of QUEEN MMA MEDIA
Photo credit – Briana Lynn Banas

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hannah “Queen of Sparta” won an impressive 30-27 30-27 30-25 unanimous decision over a tough Lisa “Insane” Blaine at PREMIER FC 26

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