‘Pretty Boy’ and ‘The Mangler’ SET TO THROWDOWN FOR THE CES MMA LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE
NORTH EAST MMA Media
Matt Bessette and Bruce Boyington are set to battle it out for the CES MMA Lightweight Championship Title September 17, 2021 at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford, Connecticut – CES MMA 64. The winner will make CES MMA history and become the first ever 2-division CES champion. Who will be CES Champ-Champ?
BOYINGTON READY TO FIGHT FOR CES MMA LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE
He is known throughout the New England region and the northeast as Bruce “Pretty Boy” Boyington. He is an exciting, explosive, and intelligent fighter who always brings action inside the cage. With a professional record of (17-12) Boyington has battled it out for numerous promotions during his career. Such promotions include CES, NEF (New England Fights), and the WSOF to note a few. Boyington has gained eleven of his seventeen wins via finish. He knows how to stop an opponent. Three of his finishes have come via submission.
The forty-two year old Boyington began his pro career inside the MMA cage back in June of 2009. In April of 2014 he won his first pro title, the vacant CFX Lightweight Title with a unanimous decision victory over Ruso Khubejashvili. In September of 2014 Boyington captured the NEF – Fight Night Pro Lightweight Championship belt in his very next bout. He went on to successfully defend the Fight Night Lightweight Title four times.
In August of 2018 he won the vacant CES MMA Featherweight Championship via a second round rear naked choke against a very formidable Sean Soriano. He went on to successfully defend his CES MMA Featherweight Title in May of 2019 at CES 56.
BESSETTE EAGER TO GET BOYINGTON INSIDE THE CAGE
He is known throughout the northeast and New England as MATT “The Mangler” BESSETTE. Bessette made his professional debut back in September of 2007. With a professional record of (24-10-0 nc-1) Bessette has produced a strong career in the pro cage, fighting under such promotional banners as Bellator, CES, Reality Fighting, and GFL. He fights out of Connecticut and has gained sixteen of his twenty-four wins via finish.
In October of 2010 he captured the vacant Reality Fighting Lightweight Championship Title. In April of 2011 Bessette won the Global Fight League Pro Lightweight Title belt via second round guillotine choke submission over John Benoit at GFL 10. In July of 2017 his talents landed him on the prestigious Dana White’s Contender Series. In January of 2018 Bessette debuted with the UFC at UFC 220. In his very next bout Bessette fought on The Ultimate Fighter 27 Finale in July of 2018. Bessette has high level experience and in January of 2020 he won the vacant CES MMA Pro Featherweight Championship Title with a exciting third round stoppage.
If you are an MMA fan from the northeast you probably are already aware of Boyington and Bessette. If you are from New England you probably are already aware of the intensity both BOYINGTON and BESSETTE can bring to the cage. Most likely you are already aware of the athletically orchestrated violence they are both capable of generating. Boyington and Bessette are true seasoned veterans of the sport. Both have evolved to become big pro names on the northeast and New England regional MMA scene. These two fighters represent the tough fierce warriors of the northeast. These two athletes are what MMA in the northeast and New England is all about. Two hard-working high end professionals with top level talent and a history of delivering action packed fights. Boyington knows how to dish out the dynamic booms and with a nickname like ‘Pretty Boy’ he looks good doing it. Bessette knows how to grind hard, unload heavy strikes, and is always eager to make war on his feet or on the ground. This is a very good matchup! This is going to be a very good fight!
Queen MMA Media appreciates the brave, bold, and skillful women of bare knuckle boxing. As usual the female warriors always find their way to the top of the action.
QUEEN MMA Media – Women’s P4P BARE KNUCKLE BOXING RANKINGS as of February 24, 2021
The below rankings where composited by QUEEN MMA Media and are the official women’s bare knuckle boxing rankings of QUEEN MMA Media. These rankings are not regulated by and are not considered to be the official representation of any bare knuckle promotion or organization.
BRITAIN HART’S HARD WORK AND DEDICATION SHINES BRIGHT
QUEEN MMA Media – BKFC Edition
BRITAIN HART GAINS DECISIVE DECISION WIN OVER PAIGE VANZANT AT BKFC KNUCKLEMANIA
QUEEN MMA Media takes a look at the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championships KNUCKLEMANIA main event (BritainHart versus Paige Vanzant) of February 5, 2021. A sizable amount of hype went into the buildup of this fight and it lived up to every punch. At the weigh ins the day before the bout an eruption of aggression was released on stage between Hart and Vanzant. Hart walking up boldly and putting her face into the face of Vanzant. Vanzant quickly reacting with a choke grab to Hart’s throat followed with a shove. Loud and heavy words were exchanged, mainly from Hart as BKFC promoter David Feldman struggled to gain control of the situation. News of the pre fight scuffle ran wild across social media as fans began to eagerly anticipate the upcoming fight.
QUEEN MMA Media – Round-by-Round, punch stats, and unofficial scoring
Before the bell for round one Vanzant seemed relaxed but had the look of being in unchartered waters. Hart looked focused but had a look that said this could be her biggest challenge.
ROUND – ONE
The first twenty seconds of round one showed Hart pawing with a left jab in what seemed to be an early feeling out process. Vanzant circled about looking tentative. At the 1:42 mark of round one they engaged in the center of the circle. Quickly the action became an inside battle with Hart demonstrating her clinch and strike experience. Hart drove Vanzant to the ring ropes. The two grappled and clinched until referee Dan Miragliotta pulled them apart. Hart and Vanzant returned to the center of the ring and began circling one another with faints, looking for an opportunity. Both fighters used their footwork and jab measuring for range. Hart launched an attack landing a solid right hand upstairs but Vanzant pushed back landing a hard combo of her own to the head. Hart battled back using the jab to push Vanzant backwards but was unable to find the target. The last ten seconds delivered Vanzant and Hart standing in the middle of the ring searching for openings with Hart landing a hard three punch combination followed with a big right to Vanzant’s jaw.
BRITAIN HART –
Jabs Thrown – 22 Jabs Landed – 3
Head Punches Thrown – 16 Head Punches Landed – 11
Body Punches Thrown – 9 Body Punches Landed – 9
PAIGE VANZANT –
Jabs Thrown – 5 Jabs Landed – 1
Head Punches Thrown – 17 Head Punches Landed – 8
Body Punches Thrown – 0 Body Punches Landed – 0
QUEEN MMA Media – Round One Scoring – HART 10 / VANZANT 9
ROUND – TWO
Hart and Vanzant traded jabs at the start, looking and fainting. Vanzant attacked first alluding Hart’s jabs and landing some clean shots. Vanzant showed good head movement appearing a little more comfortable inside the squared circle. The two exchanged blows with Vanzant moving in hard only to be driven back by Hart. Hart followed Vanzant around the ring. Near the midway point of the round Hart landed a smashing right hand but Vanzant bulled forward and fired right back. Both entangled in the middle of the ring. Hart began driving deep shots to the body of Vanzant. Hart looked sharp on the inside controlling the clinch and slamming away at Vanzant’s midsection. Both clinched and traded short shots in close. Referee Dan Miragliotta separated them with 0:42 seconds remaining in round two. Hart circled Vanzant with footwork and poked with her left jab. Hart closed in landing downstairs and up top. Hart displayed crisp boxing skills finding a home for her straight left. Hart drove Vanzant’s back towards the ropes with a flurry of rights and lefts at the bell.
BRITAIN HART –
Jabs Thrown – 27 Jabs Landed – 10
Head Punches Thrown – 19 Head Punches Landed – 9
Body Punches Thrown – 12 Body Punches Landed – 11
PAIGE VANZANT –
Jabs Thrown – 9 Jabs Landed – 3
Head Punches Thrown – 21 Head Punches Landed – 7
Body Punches Thrown – 4 Body Punches Landed – 2
QUEEN MMA Media – Round Two Scoring – HART 10 / VANZANT 9
ROUND – THREE
Vanzant comes out aggressive pushing Hart back from the opening of the round. The two begin to land in a heated exchange of head shots. Vanzant pushes in with a burst of punches. Hart pushes Vanzant back with body shots and inside hooks. Vanzant responds by picking up the action landing some hard right hands at about the midpoint of the round. The two clinch and battle inside. Hart drives body shots into the ribs of Vanzant but Vanzant does not wilt away and throws right back in reply. Referee Dan Miragliotta pulls them apart. Vanzant moves in pushing the action. Hart launches back landing three heavy punches to the head of Vanzant. The two warriors stand and trade punches. Hart presses Vanzant against the ropes and unloads big body work. The two fighters clinch in the center of the circle with 0:25 seconds remaining in round three. They swap hard jabs and close the round locked in a clinch.
BRITAIN HART –
Jabs Thrown – 22 Jabs Landed – 7
Head Punches Thrown – 19 Head Punches Landed – 9
Body Punches Thrown – 12 Body Punches Landed – 12
PAIGE VANZANT –
Jabs Thrown – 10 Jabs Landed – 4
Head Punches Thrown – 26 Head Punches Landed – 11
Body Punches Thrown – 1 Body Punches Landed – 1
QUEEN MMA Media – Round Three Scoring – HART 10 / VANZANT 9
ROUND – FOUR
Vanzant comes out the aggressor in round four backing Hart up with a flurry of punches. Hart charges right back. Vanzant is beginning to let her hands go. Perhaps feeling as if she may be behind in points after three rounds. Vanzant holds her ground and delivers a big right hand before clinching up with Hart at the 1:36 mark of the round. Vanzant muscles Hart into the ropes before Referee Dan Miragliotta forces a separation. Back to the center of the squared circle they go. They trade jabs. Hart unleashes a hard right uppercut that gets Vanzant’s attention. Vanzant tries to tangle up with Hart in an effort to stop the punches. Hart pushes free and moves the action back to the center of the ring. Vanzant pursues Hart. Blood streams from Hart’s nose. Vanzant begins to show movement, shifting up on her toes and circling Hart. Hart moves in trying to cut off the ring. Vanzant dances side to side while Hart hunts in pursuit. Vanzant unloads a fast flurry. Hart blasts back with a flurry of her own. Vanzant surges in to clinch in an attempt to stop the barrage. The two end up locked in a clinch, pushing and pulling one another until referee Dan Miragliotta steps in to divide them. Vanzant becomes the aggressor moving forward as Hart is backed towards the ropes. Hart unloads a cracking right hand to Vanzant’s jaw. Vanzant is game and stands in the pocket ready for more. Hart lands several more shots upstairs using her reach to get off first just before the bell ends round four.
BRITAIN HART –
Jabs Thrown – 16 Jabs Landed – 4
Head Punches Thrown – 13 Head Punches Landed – 6
Body Punches Thrown – 4 Body Punches Landed – 2
PAIGE VANZANT –
Jabs Thrown – 11 Jabs Landed – 3
Head Punches Thrown – 18 Head Punches Landed – 6
Body Punches Thrown – 1 Body Punches Landed – 1
QUEEN MMA Media – Round Four Scoring – HART 10 / VANZANT 10 (EVEN)
ROUND – FIVE
The final round. Both fighters look tattered but seemingly ready and eager to continue the action. The two open the fifth round on their toes and throwing heat. Both land effective combinations battling back and forth. Vanzant circles Hart from the outside then bursts forward with a big overhand left off the side of Hart’s head. The two clinch and Hart continues work on the body. Hart holds tight while digging solid hooks downstairs. Vanzant seems to be feeling the body shots from Hart but comes back with a jolting right uppercut and a hard left hook to Hart’s chin. Hart back peddles. Vanzant chases Hart to the ropes with one minute remaining in the final round. Vanzant digs hard body shots into Hart’s midsection and lands combinations up top. Perhaps feeling she needs a knockout to win Vanzant keeps blasting forward with numerous punches to the head of Hart. Hart tries to cover up and then fires back. The two go toe-to-toe with Vanzant seeming to gain the edge in the exchange. Vanzant begins to turn it on landing a booming three punch combo to Hart’s jaw. Blood begins to flow heavy from Hart’s mouth. Vanzant lands a left hook, a right hook, and another left hook. Hart eats the punches and finds the stamina to answer with a crunching left and a hard right. The two finish the last twenty second of the bout firing toe-to-toe.
BRITAIN HART –
Jabs Thrown – 19 Jabs Landed – 2
Head Punches Thrown – 26 Head Punches Landed – 11
Body Punches Thrown – 28 Body Punches Landed – 18
PAIGE VANZANT –
Jabs Thrown – 5 Jabs Landed – 2
Head Punches Thrown – 45 Head Punches Landed – 22
Body Punches Thrown – 4 Body Punches Landed – 3
QUEEN MMA Media – Round Five Scoring – VANZANT 10 / HART 9
BRITAIN HART – 49 VANZANT – 47
Hart and Vanzant put on an exciting bare knuckle main event that lived up to the hype. Paige Vanzant proved she is as tough as they come, never once fading from the action, and seemed to begin to turn the tide of the fight halfway through the fourth round. Bare Knuckle is a different kind of beast and Vanzant showed she has what it takes. I would not be surprised to see her take this debut experience and return with a vengeance if she elects to continue in the sport of bare knuckle. Vanzant displayed serious power, good head movement, and did fairly well in the clinch exchanges considering it was her first time in the BKFC circle. She come up short in the fight but she delivered a tall BKFC debut performance. A quick look at the BKFC rooster and the question becomes – who is next for Vanzant? Randine Willoughby? Sheena Starr? Charisa Sigala? Jenny Savage? Taylor Starling?
Britain Hart came in a slight betting underdog despite being a veteran of bare knuckle and having professional boxing experience. Once again she delivered a gritty, high octane fight. Hart displayed spectacular determination and executed an impressive victory. Hart has been silencing critics from the start of her career. She continues to overcome challenges while winning the hearts of fans. Hart’s skills are noticeably improving as she continues to demonstrate how hard work pays off. She gets better every time she steps into the ring. Her hard work and dedication shined bright against Vanzant. What is next for Britain Hart? A possible title shot?
By: T. Vickers (MMA – Journalist)
QUEEN MMA MEDIA
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“KILLA BEE” SET TO DEBUT AT BARE KNUCKLE FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP – KNUCKLE MANIA
Taylor Starling is no stranger to combat sports. She made her amateur MMA debut back in January of 2015. As an amateur Starling went on to gather up a four fight career; fighting under the established King of the Cage promotions on two occasions, and finishing with a shot at the vacant NLFC (Next Level Fight Club) flyweight championship title. Over the past few years the “Killa Bee” has been collecting a mix of tools to add to her fight game, making her professional kickboxing debut in July of 2019 and her pro boxing debut in October of 2020. Starling made her pro MMA debut in October of 2019 at Road to M-1 USA 3 and has went on to produce a (1-1) pro record with her victory coming by way of first round (TKO) verbal surrender. The twenty-four year old trains out of Modern Warrior in Rock Hill, South Carolina and brings real toughness and a genuine desire to throw hands. On February 5, 2021 Taylor “Killa Bee” Starling will make her appearance in bare knuckle boxing, set to debut on what many believe to be Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship’s most hyped card since its launch back in June of 2018.
Starling has always had a desire to pursue boxing. She is a lady who simply enjoys striking and what a perfect place to find it, Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship. With the support of family and friends behind her Starling will be looking to make a big impression come fight night. Starling is set to face Charisa Sigala at KnuckleMania. The thirty-six year old Sigala fights out of California and has produced a solid (4-2) record as a pro in MMA.
Bare Knuckle brings a raw edge to the combat sports world along with a fragrance of yore and the grit of ancient days. It is fast paced and the action is electrifying. Under the guidance of David Feldman the BKFC promotion and the sport of bare knuckle is growing rapidly in popularity among fight fans.
QUEEN MMA Media caught up with TAYLOR“Killa Bee”STARLING for a quick Q & A
QUEEN MMA Media (T. Vickers) – “I understand you have gained both pro boxing and pro kickboxing experience. I also am guessing you like to strike. With that said what was the main reason you decided to jump into bare knuckle?”
TAYLOR STARLING – “The main reason I decided to jump to bare knuckle is because my fighting style is very knitty, gritty, in your face brawler so BKFC seemed like a match made in heaven for me.”
QUEEN MMA Media (T. Vickers) – “Sigala, your upcoming opponent seems to like to throw hands as well. It appears you will have perhaps a 3 inch height edge and most likely a noticeable reach advantage against Sigala. Do you feel this will work to your favor?”
TAYLOR STARLING– “I believe it’ll work in my favor because I am very good with my range and I love using it to my advantage.”
QUEEN MMA Media (T. Vickers) – “Is there anything different that you have added to your fight camp for bare knuckle that you normally do not have in your MMA, boxing, or kickboxing fight camp?”
TAYLOR STARLING – “I have done a lot of conditioning on my knuckles and done a lot of different things preparing for the rule set in BKFC and really getting that feel for not having anything on my hands and my approaches with defense and offense.”
Don’t let the beauty fool you. Behind this pretty face is a warrior who is always prepared for war.
Bare Knuckle is not like other combat sports. Many variables come into play with bare knuckle. Cuts come easy and can quickly end a fight. The forehead is perhaps the hardest bone in the human body and is several times harder than the fist. Things can change for a fighter the first time they eat a bare knuckle fist. Like other sports it is a game of inches and a game of timing. A bare knuckle fighter must use strategy not just to formulate an attack plan or perfect a full proof defense but take into consideration controlling the power and accuracy of their punches in an effort of preservation. Both Starling and Sigala will be making their bare knuckle debuts at KnuckleMania. The outcome may easily be determined by who will not wilt away from the action. Odds are the fists will fly and the blood will follow. Expect primetime fury from both Starling and Sigala. Be prepared for every fight on the KNUCKLE MANIA card to deliver non stop excitement covered in carnage. A true fight fans dream.
STARLING vs SIGALA will be part of a colossal card headlined by celebrity UFC star Paige VanZant who has made the transition to make her bare knuckle debut against one of BKFC’s veteran sluggers Britain Hart. The event will be compliant to social distancing guidelines with advanced tickets being $55. For ticket information (1-888-397-0100) online www.rpfundingcenter.com. For more info – www.bareknuckle.tv
By: T. Vickers (MMA – Journalist)
QUEEN MMA MEDIA
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Paige Vanzant is a veteran of nine fights in the UFC, two of which she finished via strikes.
Vanzant drops a hard right hand on Rachael Ostovich. January 19, 2019 at UFC on ESPN + 1
Who will it be Britain Hart, Jenny Savage Clausius, Rachael Ostovich, Bec Rawlings, or is there another waiting to jump into the fray? There is no question the Vanzant BKFC debut frenzy has generated considerable interest and noticeable chaos throughout the bare knuckle community and at this point I would not be surprised to see Jake Paul or Logan Paul gravitate towards Vanzant with a boastful challenging call out across social media. Paige Vanzant’s last fight was an MMA pro flyweight bout against Amanda Ribas at UFC 251 in July of 2020. Vanzant lost the match via first round armbar. Regardless of the loss, the fact remains Vanzant quickly reached star popularity status with a combination of talent and looks shortly after debuting in the UFC in 2015. Over the past several years the twenty-six year old Vanzant has built an (8-5) pro MMA record while facing some big names in the sport. Such opponents include; Rose Namajunas, Michelle Waterson, Jessica-Rose Clark, and Amanda Ribas to mention a few. The BKFC fans have been buzzing about the addition of Vanzant since it was first announced and the rumor mill has been whirling nonstop ever since.
PAIGE VANZANT vs BRITAIN HART
Britain Hart and “Rowdy” Bec Rawlings with the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship belt before their big fight at BKFC 2.
Britain Hart went the distance against heavily favored Bec Rawlings in a hard fought split decision war at BKFC 2.
It all seemed to begin to grow when bare knuckle boxer Britain Hart defeated Randine Eckholm at BKFC 14 back in November of 2020 via a fourth round KO/TKO. The referee raised Hart’s hand in victory. Seconds later while still in the ring Hart was handed the microphone. Microphone in hand she walked over to the edge of the ring. Leaning on the ropes she looked down at Paige Vanzant who was in attendance at ringside and exclaimed “You are fucking next.” The Miami, Florida crowd reacted with excitement over what seemed to be a clear call out of the popular former UFC star.
The thirty year old Britain Hart has a professional boxing background and made her bare knuckle debut at BKFC 2 in August of 2018 against UFC veteran MMA fighter “Rowdy” Bec Rawlings. The 135 lb matchup played a large part in putting BKFC on the combat sports map. Hart battled the heavily favored Rawlings to a close split decision. Despite coming up short in the electrifying and action packed bout Hart gained the respect and following of the early BKFC fan base. In April of 2019 Hart went on to face BKFC’s most dominating female fighter Christine Ferea at BKFC 5. Hart lost to Ferea by way of doctor stoppage in the second round but continued to demonstrate her unwillingness to wilt away from a challenge.
PAIGE VANZANT vs JENNY SAVAGE CLAUSIUS
Jenny “The Tennessee Gangster” Savage
Jenny Savage Clausius blasts Sheena Brandenburg with a solid overhand left in bare knuckle debut at BKFC 15.
In December of 2020 pro MMA fighter Jenny Savage Clausius entered the action by making her bare knuckle debut with a decisive win via second round doctor stoppage over Sheena Brandenburg at BKFC 15. Brandenburg AKA Sheena Starr was no stranger to the bare knuckle fight game having made a cross over from an (0-4) pro MMA career to debut at BKFC 5 with a round two KO/TKO win over Ivana Coleman. Sheena later went on to fall short at BKFC 8 against Delaney Owen. Not long after Jenny Savage Clausius’s bare knuckle debut win over Brandenburg rumors begin to surface of Clausius gaining a possible matchup with Vanzant at BKFC 16. Clausius is (3-4) as a pro MMA fighter and currently (1-0) in bare knuckle.
PAIGE VANZANT vs RACHAEL OSTOVICH
Rachael Ostovich
Rachael Ostovich slams a right to the chin of Paige Vanzant during UFC fight back in January of 2019.
As of late a new rumor has been tossed into the bare knuckle mill, talks of a Rachael Ostovich versus Paige Vanzant fight. Ostovich and Vanzant had squared off in the UFC cage back in January of 2019. Vanzant won the contest with a second round armbar and perhaps a possible rematch by way of bare knuckle is in the cards.
PAIGE VANZANT vs BEC RAWLINGS
Paige Vanzant and “Rowdy” Bec Rawlings eye to eye before meeting in the UFC cage back in 2016.
Bec Rawlings produced an undefeated record of (3 – 0) while fighting under the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship promotional banner.
If the rumor mill was not already loaded to the brim Bec Rawlings has expressed “I would love that fight” when recently asked about possibly facing Vanzant again, but this time-a-round in bare knuckle. In August of 2016 Vanzant finished Rawlings in the second round with a hard head kick at UFC Fight Night. “She would take a beating in BKFC”, explained Rawlings who generated an impressive (3-0) record in bare knuckle before shifting back over to MMA competition under the Bellator promotional banner.
There are some fans that see Vanzant as being a mediocre striker from the UFC who gained her fame due to her stunning good looks. Many others see Vanzant as a tough warrior who brings serious experience, real skill, and is not afraid to fight.
Despite all the flying rumors and claimed verbal agreements it all means nothing until someone signs the dotted line. And so the drama continues to expand.
It seems obvious to most fight fans Paige Vanzant was brought onto the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship roster in an effort to spark epic attention and the only thing that can be confirmed thus far is mission accomplished.
By: T. Vickers (MMA – Journalist)
QUEEN MMA MEDIA
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CODY LAW vs KENNY CHAMPION / Featherweight Preliminary Bout / BELLATOR 254
TWO TOUGH NORTH EAST YOUNG GUNS READY TO UNLOAD
On December 10, 2020 at the Mohegan Sun Arena two talented northeast area fighters will meet in pro MMA featherweight action at Bellator 254.
Kenny “Rise of the Phoenix” Champion is an exciting fighter who is riding a strong three fight winning streak. Champion is (2-0) in the cage as a professional with both victories coming by way of first round KO/TKO finish. Champion is a believer in hard work and he demonstrates it in every fight. Kenny has smooth standup and accurate striking. He is a smart fighter with good presence. The Connecticut warrior has a background that includes Muay Thai and grappling. He has sharpened his abilities with each fight and is ready for what many believe to be his biggest challenge to date inside the steel cage. With enormous challenges come enormous rewards. Champion will be given the opportunity under the shining lights of Bellator to introduce a worldwide audience to the “Rise of the Phoenix”.
Cody Law carries serious skills. He is a very well rounded fighter and brings a (1-0) pro record into the bout. The Pennsylvania athlete made his professional debut at Bellator 250 with a big first round finish over Orlando Ortega via D’Arce choke. Cody shined as an amateur producing a (5-0) record before turning pro in November of this year. The twenty-five year old is riding the momentum of an impressive six fight winning streak and trains under American Top Team. Cody wields stout wrestling and a tenacious attitude. He has quick, hard effective hands in standup exchanges and can distribute a potent right. Cody is dangerous on his feet and on the ground. He made a solid impact on the Bellator scene in his debut and has shown he is clearly ready to evolve to the next level.
KENNY CHAMPION vs CODY LAW set to collide at BELLATOR 254
This could turn out to be an important bout for both up and coming 145 pounders. Despite the featherweight matchup being scheduled as a preliminary bout do not be surprised if this fight produces as much excitement and energy as the main event. This fight has what it takes to be an explosive matchup, two hungry young guns eager to unload, and when the smoke clears we will find out who will walk away the winner. It is fair to say both Law and Champion have what it takes. Both have the tools to end it and neither fighter should overlook or underestimate the other. There is little doubt both of these gladiators will leave it all in the cage come December 10, 2020. Who wins this fight? The lion with the greatest hunger.
NORTH EAST MMA Media TAKES A LOOK INTO THE NORTHEAST AMATEUR ATOMWEIGHTS
NORTH EAST MMA Media (c)
NORTH EAST MMA Media took the time to take a look into the amateur atomweights of the northeast. In recent years the northeast region has produced some outstanding amateur atomweights who have moved on to have success at the professional level. Such atomweight standouts include; Lindsey “Damsel” VanZandt, Marisa “Spider Monkey” Messer-Belenchia, Elise Reed, and Jillian “Lionheart” DeCoursey. Lindsey VanZandt worked hard as an amateur atomweight and has gone on to fight as a professional under such prestigious promotions as Bellator, Invicta Fighting Championship, and Rizin. Marisa Messer-Belenchia produced a strong (4-1) record as an amateur and has went on to make an impact among the pro atomweights with an appearance at Invicta Fighting Championship and wins with both CES MMA and Premier FC. Jillian DeCoursey was a dominant northeast amateur atomweight who finished her amateur career with an excellent (8 – 1) record. DeCoursey has moved on to fight under Invicta FC and Cage Fury FC as a professional. Elise Reed is a New Jersey fighter who finished her amateur career with an exceptional record of (7 – 1). Reed has built an undefeated (2 – 0) record as a pro. Reed made her pro debut with Bellator and recently won the Cage Fury FC vacant Strawweight Title with a split decision victory over a very tough and talented Jasmine Jasudavicius.
It may be sometime before the northeast fans see another batch of atomweights rise up from the northeastern region to equal the most recent class of Lindsey VanZandt, Marisa Messer-Belenchia, Elise Reed, and Jillian DeCoursey. With that said the northeast does continue to generate tough amateur atomweights with real talent and some of these amateurs may very well become tomorrows future pro prospects.
BROOKE FAHEY
Brooke Fahey has tremendous potential for a nineteen year old amateur. She has become a strong presence among the northeast amateur atomweights. Brooke made her amateur debut in June of 2019 with a unanimous decision victory over Taylor Samarco at Maverick MMA 13. The New Jersey fighter went on to win the vacant Primal Fight Promotions amateur atomweight title via second round armbar submission against Rachel Penkower, a northeast atomweight competitor who carried more experience in the amateur cage. All of Fahey’s bouts have been with northeast regional promotions and two of her three victories have come by way of submission. Brooke is currently undefeated with a (3 – 0) record and has quickly established herself as one of the top amateur atomweights in the northeast.
ALEJANDRA BETANCOURT
Alejandra Betancourt fights out of Kentucky and has built a (4 – 2) record as an amateur. The thirty-five year old Alejandra made her debut back in February of 2015 with an impressive win at Valor Fights 20 over Linda Gray by way of KO/TKO in the second round. She has made two appearances in the northeast; coming up short against Marisa Messer-Belenchia at Reality Fighting in May of 2016 and a big win over Meghen Williams via unanimous decision at Pinnacle FC 17 in June of 2018. In August of 2018 Alejandra won the BCM Promotions amateur atomweight championship title with a third round rear naked choke finish of a very tough Jennifer Hicks. Alejandra brings talent and considerable amateur experience into the cage.
ARIANA CRUZ
Ariana Cruz fights out of Connecticut and has produced an undefeated (2 – 0) record as an amateur. She made her debut in June of 2019 with a very close split decision win over Ariana Melendez under the lights at Reality Fighting. Cruz brings fierce aggressive energy into the cage. She has demonstrated she can deliver fast hands, sharp punching, and knockout power. Ariana debuted as a strawweight and fought at atomweight in her last bout proving she can perform at both weight classes.
RACHEL PENKOWER
Rachel Penkower has produced a solid (2 – 2) record as an amateur. She made her debut in October of 2017 as a strawweight gaining a win over Fernanda Alvarado at Ring of Combat AM 26. The twenty-two year old fights out of New Jersey and has had all of her amateur bouts with northeast regional promotions. She has proven she can win at both strawweight (115lbs) and atomweight (105lbs). Currently her only loss at atomweight was against Brooke Fahey the number one ranked amateur atomweight in the northeast.
AMY GOLDING
Amy Golding is an aggressive atomweight with a strong background in wrestling. She entered the amateur MMA game debuting against Elise Reed who many believe is one of the best strawweights in the northeast. Her win over Jennifer Hicks and her loss to Samantha Seff proves she does not shy away from a challenge. Golding has faced some of the top fighters in the region. The combined amateur record’s of her opponents (13 – 8) is a clear example of this fact. Her amateur record of (1 – 3) does not give a true indication of what she brings into the cage. Look for her to begin the climb upwards as her striking improves and her experience grows.
DAN “The BULL” BUNYAN CALLS OUT HEAVYWEIGHTS OF BARE KNUCKLE FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP
NORTH EAST MMA Media (c)
The sport of yesteryear has returned to the spotlight. Bare knuckle boxing has grown tremendously in popularity over the past few years. Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) is the first promotion to gain permission to hold a legal, sanctioned and regulated bare knuckle event in the United States since 1889. BKFC is headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and headed by President and former professional boxer David Feldman. BKFC is based on the Broughton rules which had governed bare knuckle fighting in the 19th century, requiring combatants to “Toe the Line” which begins every round with fighters facing one another only a few inches apart.
“Most fighters are afraid to get hit by my kind of violence. I am in the best shape of my life and I like to fight.” – Dan “The Bull” Bunyan
Deep in the dark cold north, a howling can be heard. A young hungry bull salivating to bury his horns into BKFC. NORTH EAST MMA Media caught up with Dan “The Bull” Bunyan and discussed his desire to pursue the fast growing sport of bare knuckle boxing. Fighting plagued Dan Bunyan throughout his childhood. He explained how he had to overcome a lot while a youth, being unable to walk multiple times due to injuries, but he never gave up. Dan began training in combat sports several years ago. He believes he has the hands for Bare Knuckle. “I would be a perfect fit,” he explained. Dan has more than just heavy hands. He wields fists that bring wrecking ball devastation. At twenty-five years of age he fights out of New York ironically not all that far from the Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame located in Belfast, New York. Bunyan has produced an undefeated record of (2-0) as an amateur MMA heavyweight, brutally finishing both opponents in the first round. Fight fans thrive on seeing scary punching power and Dan brings it every time. When asked if he felt he could handle a BK heavyweight punch Dan responded by showing me a bloody photograph where he had been clocked in the forehead with a 10,000 pound excavator at full swing with its bucket. “It never put me on my ass. I just turned around and went back to work,” explained Dan. Bunyan has never been knocked out. He has never even been knocked down, not even in training. “Most fighters are afraid to get hit by my kind of violence. I am in the best shape of my life and I like to fight,” continued Bunyan. Considering the carnage Bunyan can deliver he seems like a nature fit for BKFC. It is fair to assume he would definitely bring explosive hard hitting heavyweight action to BKFC and its fans. Dan believes signing with BKFC would change his life.
NORTH EAST MMA Media – What attracted you to Bare Knuckle Fighting Championships?
DAN “The Bull” BUNYAN – “Bare Knuckle is blood and gore, pure violence that don’t slow down. That’s what attracted me to the sport.”
NORTH EAST MMA Media – Who would you want to be your debut opponent if you got the chance? And why?
DAN “The Bull” BUNYAN – “I want to fight the big names. That’s how I get paid and earn a title shot. I don’t get paid a lot for no names. I get paid for big names. “
NORTH EAST MMA Media – It is my understanding you’re hungry for Arnold Adams. Is this correct? And if so why?
DAN “The Bull” BUNYAN – “Adams and Stamps would be easy work because they run and can’t take punishment. Adams grabbed my attention from trying to scare their announcer. Shows me he doesn’t wanna fight tough guys, he wants to fight people that can’t fight. Adams’ time is over and I am the one to take his place.”
NORTH EAST MMA Media – It is my understanding you broke the punching bag while working on your striking at Atlas in Glens Falls, New York. Is this true?
DAN “The Bull” BUNYAN – “I broke the bag at Atlas jiu jitsu Glens Falls, New York and it never got put back up. I became known as the one that broke the punching bag. My jiu jitsu trainer Joe seen it first hand and his eyes widened and he was silent. You can always ask Atlas who broke the punching bag, they gonna say me.”
NORTH EAST MMA Media – Would you take on any of the BK heavyweights?
DAN “The Bull” BUNYAN – “Sarro, Mir, Adams, Beltran, Shewmaker, Lopez, all interest me.”
NORTH EAST MMA Media – It is my understanding that you would welcome with open arms a fight with the hard hitting Chris Sarro. Is this true?
DAN “The Bull” BUNYAN – “YES.”
NORTH EAST MMA Media – Some people feel Chris Sarro and yourself are two of the hardest heavyweight sluggers in the northeast. Do you agree?
DAN “The Bull” BUNYAN – “I definitely agree that me and Sarro are hardest hitters to come outta the northeast. I think a lot of fans would agree that me and Sarro are the two hardest hitters outta the northeast. A fight between Sarro and myself would probably be the most gory fight in BK history if it went the distance.”
Dan “The Bull” Bunyan is a beast that brings one hell of a show. “The BULL” clearly wants BKFC and he wants it bad.
Article by – T. Vickers
Below are two brief videos of Dan “The BULL” Bunyan.
On January 31, 2020 at Rivers Casino & Resort Amy Golding will defend her championship belt in front of her hometown fans. Golding was offered the opportunity to fight for the Cage Wars vacant amateur atomweight championship on short notice due to a pullout because of injury back in November of 2019. Amy quickly stepped up and eagerly accepted the challenge. The fearless Golding not only leaped at the chance, she capitalized on it. On November 23, 2019 Amy Golding won the title via unanimous decision against a tough, experienced opponent, Jennifer Hicks at Cage Wars 44. The New York based fighter silenced any critic with a strong performance and walked away the new Cage Wars atomweight champ.
Amy Golding sends Jennifer Hicks mouth guard airborne with a smashing right hand at Cage Wars 44.
Golding started wrestling in the sixth grade and evolved into a decorated and accomplished Olympic caliber wrestler. She made her amateur MMA debut in December of 2018 and has demonstrated from the start the level of commitment and stamina needed to climb the amateur MMA mountain. A little over one year later she is the current Cage Wars atomweight champ ready to put her title on the line against Samantha “The Wolf Queen” Seff at Cage Wars 45.
QUEEN MMA MEDIA was able to gain a brief (Q & A) with Amy Golding before her January 31, 2020 Cage Wars atomweight title defense.
Tommy V. (Queen MMA Media) – Congratulations to you on winning the vacant Cage Wars title against a very game Jennifer Hicks. How did it feel to get that victory?
Amy Golding – “I was very excited to win the last fight against Jennifer Hicks and become the Cage Wars champ. It has been very difficult for me to find opponents who will compete locally here in NY, with two opponents pulling out last minute on me, so I was just happy that it went through. I have to give Jennifer a lot of credit for showing up and giving me a tough fight, she’s one tough girl!“
Tommy V. (Queen MMA Media) – How are you feeling at three weeks out from the fight?
Amy Golding – “I’m three weeks out and feeling great. Not a single complaint from me. My camps going well my body’s feeling powerful and explosive and my mind is sharp. I am exactly where I want to be 3 weeks out.“
Tommy V. (Queen MMA Media) – Your opponent has considerable experience in the cage with a nine bout amateur career. She has a grappling BJJ style and is not too shy to throw hands upstairs. Are you aware of Samantha Seff, or do you generally avoid looking into your opponents?
Amy Golding – “Scouting is a part of competing in any type of high level sport. Yes, I have seen her compete many times and analyzed what she does in her fights.“
Tommy V. (Queen MMA Media) – This fight looks to be a classic wrestling versus BJJ match up if the fight goes to the mat. Are you confident in your highly decorated wrestling background against a dangerous BJJ artist?
Amy Golding – “I am extremely confident in my wrestling skills to be able to dominate all positions in the fight.“
Tommy V. (Queen MMA Media) – I have followed your amateur MMA career from the start. I am impressed by the progress in your stand up game in your title win. Is stand up striking something you have been focusing on as of late?
Amy Golding – “I have been working on the same striking drills as always, but concentrate more on hitting and dodging, not letting anything land and tiring the opponent out.“
Tommy V. (Queen MMA Media) – How do you see this fight playing out?
Amy Golding – “I visualize this everyday since she agreed to the fight so I can answer this easily, I will win in a total domination. I’m not scared to brawl and am in fact looking forward to it! Can’t wait to put on a show for everyone!“
Amy Golding is ready to put her title on the line against Samantha “The Wolf Queen” Seff. Amy Golding vs Samantha Seff at CAGE WARS 45.
By: T. Vickers (MMA – Journalist)
QUEEN MMA MEDIA
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SAMANTHA “The WOLF QUEEN” SEFF HUNGRY FOR CAGE WARS TITLE
January 31, 2020 Samantha Seff will face Amy Golding for the CAGE WARS amateur atomweight championship at Rivers Casino & Resort in Schenectady, New York. Samantha “The Wolf Queen” Seff fights out of North Carolina and brings to the cage a (5-4) amateur record and a ton of experience. “The Wolf Queen” has demonstrated the effectiveness of her Brazilian Jiu Jitsu skills with four of her five wins coming by way of submission finish, three of the finishes being in the first round. Queen MMA Media is proud to have honored Samantha Seff last month with the Queen MMA Media Amateur of the Year (2019) award.
Samantha “The Wolf Queen” Seff battles it out with Shelby Koren for the Combat Night Strawweight Title at Combat Night Pro 15
Tommy Vickers of Queen MMA Media reached out to the Wolf Queen for a quick (Q & A) leading into her championship bout at CAGE WARS 45.
Tommy V. (Queen MMA Media) – How are you feeling three weeks away from Cage Wars 45 atomweight title bout?
SAMANTHA SEFF – “Hungry for the cage and out for blood. No place I’d rather be than in an octagon.”
Tommy V. (Queen MMA Media) – Are you going with your standard fight camp or have you changed anything in particular for this fight?
SAMANTHA SEFF – “I have a world champion BJJ instructor (John Schell) and a top Muay Thai coach (Josh Robinson) who are always in my corner and prepping me at Schell Shock BJJ. I’m also fortunate enough to train 3 times a week in Wake Forest with UFC strawweight Hannah ‘Shockwave’ Cifers and her excellent team of coaches Joel Garcia, Tiago Silva, and Carlos Martin.”
Tommy V. (Queen MMA Media) – Your opponent, Cage Wars atomweight champion Amy Golding is (1-2) as an amateur having won the title via short notice fill in due to injury. Amy won the vacant title against a game Jennifer Hicks via unanimous decision. Amy has a strong wrestling background and made her debut against a former Cage Wars atomweight champion Elise Reed. Are you aware of your opponents? Or do you generally not focus to closely on the opponent?
SAMANTHA SEFF – “I do a bit of research on my opponents and their game, but my primary focus has always been playing to my best skill sets and training to fine tune any areas that need improvement. I’m also lucky that my partner’s daughter is an excellent wrestler and Jiu Jitsu athlete and helps me prep.”
Tommy V. (Queen MMA Media) – Your BJJ is serious level and dangerous, how do you see it matching up with Golding’s wrestling talent?
SAMANTHA SEFF – “I train as hard as possible to be dangerous in every position available. I will never approach a fight with the fear of being outworked. The hard work will be put in all throughout camp and the fight is my reward. I’m bringing the fight to her and I expect carnage and technique on the feet and on the ground. It won’t go the distance.”
Tommy V. (Queen MMA Media) – How do you see the fight playing out?
SAMANTHA SEFF – “The plan is to make a statement with this fight and turn pro with my sights set on the top. This fight will have an exclamation point at the end for sure. I’m always bringing that big dick energy.”
Smantha Seff is a well rounded fighter and will no doubt deliver a big show for the fans and a colossal challenge for the current Cage Wars atomweight title holder. Will Samantha Seff’s strength and BJJ win the ground battle? Or will Amy Golding’s decorated wrestling background prove the better? This title fight has everything needed to become a fierce showdown.
By: T. Vickers (MMA – Journalist)
QUEEN MMA MEDIA
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