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JANUARY, 2003

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FRIDAY, January 31st 2003, AT 4:30 PM, PST

Results From
IKF Cancun Mexico
Sunday, JANUARY, 26th 2003

Rob Zbilski




Tommy Bach

Crystal Lake Illinois, USA
IKF Promoter Rob Zbilski (Left) and his TEAM Z Promotional Team are all set to host this weekend's IKF Pro World Title bout between Number 1 World Ranked and

IKF Pro U. S. Lightweight Champion
Tommy Bach of Buffalo Grove, Illinois, USA
and number 2 World Ranked Super Lightweight
Keith Nesbitt of Rochester, New York, USA.

Bach (Left) comes into the bout with a Pro record of 9 wins, 1 loss and 2 wins by KO/TKO.

The more experienced Nesbitt (Right) comes to Bach's hometown with a pro record of 27 wins, 8 loses with 5 wins by KO/TKO. As far as their amateur experience, Nesbitt has the experience edge there as well with a past amateur record of 28 wins, 5 loses with 12 wins by KO/TKO as compared to Bach's amateur record of 8 wins, 3 loses with 3 wins by KO/TKO.

While Nesbitt may have the experience edge, Bach will have the edge as far as confidence goes, having been on a winning streak. On the other side of the ring, Nesbitt will need his experience to support him as a full contact rules fighter because his try at muaythai left him nothing but bruised and battered, losing both his last 2 bouts by KO. Bach enters the ring at 5'9 and 29 years old. Nesbitt will have an inch height advantage at 5'10" but will also enter at 29 years of age.

Bach is known for his composure in the ring while Nesbitt tends to be a little more skirtish. But than again, maybe that was just our opinion seeing him in the ring doing leg kick fights for the first time. We may see the rolls change a bit when the two meet up, that is if Nesbitt's experience as an above the waist fighter shows up in strength. Also on this event will be IKF Pro US Champion Jim Zbilski of Illinois in a non title semi main event against Jorge Vasquez.

The IKF welcomes Sponsor Next Move Gear and the Top Ten Group who will be sponsoring a Midwest Championships night on the event as well. There will be 9 of these bouts added to the nights card as well. Fighters names were not available at press time.

The event will be at the American Sports Center in Crystal Lake Illinois, USA. The IKF Event Representative will be IKF Ambassador Brooks Mason of Omaha Nebraska, USA and the nights IKF Referee will be Al Wichers of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.

For ticket info please see the event ad on the upcoming events page by clicking HERE! For more info please contact Promoter Rob Zbilski at (847) 458-8333 or by e-mail at teamz@3di.net

Keith Nesbitt

Abe Belardo

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Domi Tomate

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Jennifer Alcorn

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Chuck Lidell

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Benny Urquidez

Rocklin, CA, USA: IKF Promoter Johnny Davis and his Art of Kickboxing Promotions company are all set to "Rock" the foundation of the City of Rocklin, CA, USA with the city's first ever Point Kickboxing© tournament! The event will be held at the beautiful Sunset Center. "Pre-Registration forms have been coming in strong and several Kickboxing schools in the California area have committed to many more entries on the day of the event!" "We are anticipating the best Point Kickboxing© event to date!" says IKF Point Kickboxing© Director Johnny Davis.

Davis continues, "It's always great to hear from some of the competitors who still have jitters about competing in Point Kickboxing© because this may be their first event." 'However, they always seem to counter their fear by saying that they would much rather be entering a semi-contact event than a full contact event where the chances of getting hurt are much greater.' It seems to be clear that many are really beginning to see how important Point Kickboxing© is for the growth and longevity of the sport."

Century 14 and 16 oz. Boxing gloves, head gear and chest protectors will be available at the event but gyms are encouraged to bring their own approved equipment if possible. Men, Women and Children will compete for beautiful 1st, 2nd and 3rd Place trophies. Beginner and Advanced divisions will be available. Spectators only pay $5 to attend while Seniors (65 or Older) and children under 3 years old attend for FREE! There will also be a well stocked Canteen of drinks and food available! Registration starts at 9:00 AM, Officials and Rule meetings for all coaches and participants starts at 11:AM and Eliminations "kicks" off at 12:noon sharp.

See this page for Registration and Rules: www.IKFKickboxing.com/PKB.htm

Davis further reports: IKF Point Kickboxing© is for the Muay Thai fighter too... The name Point Kickboxing© seems to throw off the Muay Thai fighter, thinking this event is not for them, but not so. There is a (PMT) which stands for Point Muay Thai division for IKF Point Kickboxing© tournaments. We chose to make a clear distinction in the two divisions. This PMT division is also semi contact and allows kicks to the legs as well as knees to the body. (chest protectors are mandatory for Junior divisions). No elbows and no knee strikes to the face are allowed. All PMT fighters are required to wear shorts. For more info, contact Johnny Davis at Art of Kickboxing Promotions (916) 780-7483 or by e-mail at johnnyd@netwiz.net

On Saturday, February 1, 2003, the much heralded February Fight Party card will finally begin. Some of the most noteworthy and popular martial sports stars of the Southeast will see action.

The kickboxing main event will have IKF U.S. Heavyweight Champion, Kevin "Hurricane" Hudson square off against Atlanta's own and formidable Mark Selbee.

Jason Miller (Sorry...no photo available) will put his ISCF East Coast Middleweight title up against the "double tough" challenger, Todd Carney, (Below Left) in the mixed martial arts main event.

In addition, names familiar to those in the Southeast and anyone who has perused the IKF and ISCF web pages in recent years like Steve Headen, Pee Wee McCall, Kevin Brooks, Shawn Porter, John Wheby, Daniel Anchetta, Andy Foster and Sherry Thompson are scheduled to have contests on the card as well. Plus, bouts have been made for representatives of such prestigious fight camps as the RAW Team and a U.S. Olympic Wrestling Training Center resident.

So, with this array of talent, it is no wonder that IKF and ISCF World President, Steve Fossum, (Right) and IKF co-founder Dan Stell (Bottom Right) will BOTH be in attendance for promoter Brett Moses' February Fight Party Saturday night. And we are expecting MANY fight fans will be there too!

February Fight Party will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2003, at the DeKalb-Atlanta Center in Atlanta, Georgia. The venue telephone number is (404) 982-0989.

For more information, Mr. Moses can be reached at not_tank@hotmail.com or call the Fight Party Hotline at (404) 315-7235.

Phoenix Arizona, USA: IKF Promoters Clement and Rhonda Vierra are excited about the KNOCKOUT success of Tuesday nights event at the Rodeo Nights night club in Phoenix Arizona. Here's are the nights results...

1. BOUT 1 - EXHIBITION
   Fabian Ortiz and Heiser Vasquez putting on a very good exhibition for being in the ring for the first time. The second bout had IKF 2 time National Champion Alyssa De Fazio with Rochelle Williams. Williams came in heavy for the fight and De Fazio and her trainers waived the weight difference just to have the fight. In addition, Williams was 3 years older. De Fazio put Williams down in the first round with a side kick. In the 2nd round she put her down again with a left hook. In the 3rd, Williams continued to try and take the fight to De Fazio, but Williams was getting tired. Seeing this, De Fazio turned it up and started coming in with big punches, front & side kicks that were landing hard. Although it was Williams first time being in the ring, the two had a great fight with De Fazio taking the win.
   
   
2. BOUT 2
   This bout was cancelled due to Rick Tybor not completing any of his Arizona State Athletic Commission required medical exams, (HIV and Physical).
   
   
3. BOUT 3
   This bout was for the vacant IKF Amateur U.S. Super Middleweight Title with Naeem Munir vs IKF USA National Middleweight Champion Oscar Montano. In there last fight together Munir Knock Montano out in the 1st round. But that was last time. This time it was for the Title. Here's the round by round action...
   • ROUND 1: Munir did what he did last time and went after Montano, knocking him down. After the 8 count, Montano stayed with him and made it though the round.
     
     
   • ROUND 2: Montano came back and took it to Munir with good leg kicks and inside punches, to win the round on all score cards 10-9.
     
     
   • ROUND 3: Montano turned it up! Hitting Munir with everything he had. Montano looked like the same fighter that won The National Tournament. This time, Montano put Munir down with punches and kicks to the legs. Munir got up and tried to fight back, but Montano saw that he had Munir on the edge of defeat and jumped on him again. The explosive combinations forced the referee to stop the fight in round 3, with the winner and New "2 TIME" IKF U.S. Super Middleweight Champion. Oscar Montano.
     
     
4. BOUT 4
   Making their Pro debuts, Chris Gomez and Roger Mejia put on a show.
   • ROUND 1: Gomez came out right after Mejia and got Mejia in his own corner with punches and kicks. The two fighters were going at it toe to toe which brought the crowd to their feet. At the end of the round Gomez hit Mejia with a round kick on the chest then the foot went up and hit Mejia in the throat and put him down. The round went to Gomez on all score cards 10-8.
     
     
   • ROUND 2: Mejia was not the same because of the kick to the throat. Gomez knew he had the fight going his way and jump on Mejia with Big punches which prompted referee Joe Joseph to jump in and gave Mejia a standing 8 count. But Mejia was not done yet. He came after Gomez and they were toe to toe "AGAIN! And AGAIN, the fan's were on their feet. Gomez was just too strong and got the best of Mejia and the fight was stopped giving Chris Gomez the win. Look out Heavyweights, we have an Up and coming fighter coming your way by the name of Chris Gomez!
     
     
5. BOUT 5
   The nights Main Event matched up Christopher Terry and Marcel Godfrey. Terry was really pumped up for this fight. It was his Pro debut and he was coming off a Big Win. A 1st round 30 second KnockOut of Rick Tybor. Terry had a very big fan following at the Rodeo Nights Night Club.
   • ROUND 1: This was a good round back and forth. The only sad point was when Godfrey hit Terry low to the groin 3 times which prompted the referee to finally deduct a point from him on the judges cards. The first round went to Terry 10-8.
     
     
   • ROUND 2: Godfrey came after Terry with hard kicks & punches and at the end of the round put Terry down with a straight left. Terry got up at the count of 8 as the round ended. This round went to Godfrey 10-8.
     
     
   • ROUND 3: Terry came out all business, landing hard kicks to Godfrey's leg's and side kicks to the body. Then it happened... Terry landed his right hand and Godfrey went down! However, to his warrior credit, Godfrey got up. Terry rushed him again and landed a jab then a right and it was over!!! Godfrey went down and Out!!! AND WE MEAN OUT!!! Godfrey was OUT on the canvas for 10 minutes. When he came to, the ringside doctors checked him over and he stood up on his own. Within a few minutes, we are glad to say all is well. On the other side of the ring stood Terry who took home a BIG WIN in his Pro Debut. So big that the win earned him a quick nickname... "2Quick" Christopher Terry. Terry is also another up and coming fighter to look out for.

PHOTO:
AMAA Trainer Mike Carlson (Kneeling)
with Fighters Smith, Pearman,
Copeland, Hudson & Hudson.

Montreal, Quebec
Duane "Bang" Ludwig (Right, arm raised, Former 2 time IKF Amateur USA National Champion) of Denver, Colorado, USA scored a first round knockout of Jens "Lil Evil" Pulver, of Davenport, Iowa, USA, the number one lightweight mixed martial arts fighter in the world 1:13 into round one Saturday night inside the Pierre Charbonneau Center. Ludwig dropped Pulver for the second time with a straight right, winning the UCC world lightweight championship.

"No one can stand with him," said Bas Rutten, Ludwig's corner man after the victory, "He is like a computer; you tell him something and he does it. Perfect!"

Both men circled the ring to open the fight, Pulver looking over confident, Ludwig looking brutally calm. "Lil Evil" struck first with a glancing left hook; from then on it was all Ludwig. "Bang" fired back with a left cross that dropped Pulver, but as he was falling, instinct took over and he reached for a double-leg. Ludwig sprawled and began landing some shots from the top. As Pulver drove deeper for the single, Ludwig scrambled back to his feet and the fighters clinched in the corner. Pulver, trying to regain his composure, grabbed the ropes, forcing the referee to halt the action. As they were separated, Pulver was still feeling the effects of the previous left. Stumbling, the ref pointed Pulver in the right direction. Ludwig capitalized on his dazed opponent. After a left high kick that was partially blocked, Ludwig landed a straight right that crumbled Pulver down and through the ropes onto the ring apron. "I'm disappointed. I don't know what I just did," said a dejected Pulver afterwards, "Three years undefeated, I guess it has to come to an end sometime. What happened last time I lost? I dominated the world."

For the full article click HERE!

IKF ADDITION
Ludwig's manager, Sven BOOGIE Bean (Left) had this to say:

"I can think of no one that deserves a World Title more than Duane. He has beaten World Champions in the past without getting a championship, and now he is finally recognized a true WORLD CLASS ATHLETE. I am so proud of him. This title is in MMA, but Duane wants to win a Muay Thai world title and win the K-1 Max series. Now the fun really starts!.."

HISTORY NOTE
When did Pulver last lose? To our knowledge it was in 2000. It was the first ever ISCF. Pro World Title Bout on a show called "New Blood Conflict Part 1", SATURDAY, August 26th, 2000 in Augusta, Georgia.

Pulver lost to Din Thomas (Right) of Team Rival. Thomas put a stop to Jen's "The Pulverizer" Pulver of Team Extreme at :35 seconds of the 2nd round with a heel hook to be the first NHB fighter to win a World Title in the ISCF.

E-Mail VIRUS WARNING!
DO NOT OPEN E-MAIL ATTACHMENTS!!!

• Several months ago we warned those of you who read our news board about an e-mail virus going around. Well, here we are again. We remind EVERYONE, DO NOT OPEN an e-mail attachment from ANYONE! Today we had close to 100 "Returned mail" e-mails in our e-mail box with a return address of an e-mail we don't even use. 95% of these return mails were to address' we never heard of, but some were. In addition, we had some incoming mail from other associates of kickboxing (Not just IKF associates) from around the world. HOWEVER, WE NEVER SENT any of these e-mails! These e-mails have files attached to them and in the subject section may say some of the following things;
  • I've missed you so much!
  • Re: your so silly!
  • see transcript for details
  • You're simply the cutest!
  • Confidential
• These e-mails go as far as having text in the message area with lines like:
  • "Sorry I haven't been back in touch with you since our chat just before the Holiday's. I've posted the new pictures we discussed. Click here to see them."
• WHATEVER YOU DO, DO NOT CLICK to see anything!

As a reminder, here are some of the other virus' we have warned you about in the past;

As this virus is still ongoing, please note that we no longer Open any file attachments to e-mails so please do not send us any.
It appears that someone thinks it's funny to send out e-mail with the IKF Address on it that appears important in the SUBJECT line. To begin with, we need to warn EVERYONE that we DO NOT send out IKF e-mail with "ATTACHMENTS". If you receive ANY e-mail from an address of the IKF with an attachment with it, we can assure you that it DID NOT come from us! If and when you receive any such mail, we ask you to DELETE it immediately. It is NOT from us. In addition, you may also receive mail from other people in the IKF circle. Again, if the mail has an attachment, DO NOT open it! Delete it! Even if it appears or looks like it is from a well known source! Some of these people we have received this virus mail from (Unknown to them and not their fault) have been Duke Roufus, Alby Bimpson, Jacqui Thompson, TeamZ, Alex Gong, Vierra's at "HARDKNOCKSGYM", "skydryking", just to name a FEW. Some of these e-mails have in the subject line topics such as, honey, ikf,meeting notice, A very new website, A special new website, US nationals, A powful tool, Look,my beautiful girl friend, A very funny website, your password, Hi! How are you? I send you this file in order to have your advice. See you later. Thanks. These e-mails contain "Attached" files with names ending in bat, as well as files that are been called: IKF Events, IKF Meeting, ISCF Events, Dos.bat, Readme.txt, HREF.scr, t1msn.com[1].htm, NAME.bat, DEFAULT.HTM, FOOTER.scr, whowas[1].htm, unknown, wushu_02[1].htm, just to name a few. Also, some of you may have received the e-mail that says in the text portion of the e-mail "A new Game" or "A great geam, check it our" or Hello,This is a IE 6.0 patch I hope you would enjoy it" etc. etc. Again, and we STRESS THIS, DO NOT OPEN any e-mail attachments, even if they look like they are from a familiar name. Also, nearly all these files are between 124K and 161K in size.

Martin Deanda

Richardson, Texas: While many of the kickboxing fans at The Texas Fightatotium may not have been sure if it was a freezing chill or adrenalized anticipation in the air, any confusion would soon give-way to pure excitement as history was made here Saturday night (January 25th). The landmark event was the first-ever IKF-NACSO sanctioned card in the "Lone Star State". After final agreements were reached between Texas-based NACSO and IKF officials last November, all that was left was to get the ball rolling with the initial IKF-NACSO event. Although a smallish venue (this arena holds only 250 spectators), The Fightatorium makes up for it's lack of girth with a passionate fan-base and a fighting ring that requires all who enter to bring their "A-Game". The ring, known as the 'Warrior-Zone', is a scant 13' x 13'....hardly enough room to run if one had a mindset to do so, therefore; "fight or flight" is not an option being that "FIGHT" is the only choice one can make in such limited confines!

The arena was filled to capacity, and those fans were not disappointed with the 5-fight schedule that marked a new beginning for contact martial-arts in Texas. The first 2 bouts of the evening were exhibition contests. 95-pound Gregory "Bear" Liflyandsky matched his skill versus 120 pound Adria "Smokin'-A" McCorkle. This contest was quickly followed by another 3-round exhibition between cruiserweights Brian "Hard-Hit" Hardin and Gabe "Mongoose" Ratcliffe. Since both exhibitions went the distance of 3 rounds each, no winners or losers were declared, yet Referee Rick Blaylock would raise each competitor's hand in victory, much to the delight of the Fightatorium crowd.

With exhibitions complete, it was finally time for the "official" first-ever IKF-NACSO-sanctioned bout in Texas, which featured Chris "Spicy" Currie (151 lbs, 0-0) against "Marvelous" Martin Deanda (Right, 152 lbs, 1-1) from Abilene. For 3 exciting rounds, Currie and Deanda went at it, and back and forth. Currie would use his lanky height advantage to work Deanda from the outside, then Deanda would counter, move inside and score effectively. When the dust settled, 2 judges had scored the contest an even draw, and a final judge gave Deanda the the win by a single point so the bout was scored a "Majority Draw". Thus, a weighty precedent has been set for future IKF matches, being that the initial IKF-NACSO - Texas bout was a "hummer"!

Currie vs Deanda was then followed by another regulation 3-rounder featuring "Psycho" Cody Smith (135 lbs, 5-5) from Anna, Texas against "Sunshine" Chris Smith (133 lbs, 2-1). While 'Psycho' Cody was game throughout, he could not overcome the barrage of activity undertaken by 'Sunshine' Chris. 'Sunshine' shone brighter, and emerged with a unanimous judges decision.

The feature-bout of the evening pitted 2 game warriors with Kingdom Kickboxing's own John "The Greek" Vakidis (173 lbs, 5-1/2 ko's) facing Nathan "Gangsta" Bagby (168 lbs, 3-1-1) in a 4-round event. Both fighters traded kicks and punches gamely, with several even rounds being tabulated on all 3 judges' cards. However, in the end, Vakidis prevailed on all 3 judges' cards for an exciting 6th victory. Both Vakidis and Bagby have bright potential in the sport, with both being relative newcomers having both begun their careers within the last ten months. Both are young and hungry fighters....Bagby being a mere 20 years old, while Vakidis is a virtual "man-child" at a mere 17 years of age. Look for more exciting happenings to surround these 2 game young lions, not to mention more "pump-your-fist" action from the new IKF competitors down in the 'Lone Star State'!

For more info, call Chuck Best or Steve Goin at (972) 889-0129, or e-mail them at juno.com@sirkikman or visit www.kingdomkickboxing.com

Drysdale



Erickson

IKF Promoter and former IKF Pro Super Heavyweight World Champion Mike Labree (Right) hosted yet another exciting night of IKF Kickboxing on January 18th entitled, IKF USA Vs IKF Canada at the LCO Casino & Lodge in Hayward Wisconsin, USA.

Sorry the results are being posted so late but Mike left on his annual 2 month vacation right after the event and no one forwarded the event results to us. Our sources report that overall the show was a very professionally run event with excellent refereeing from Tom O'Sullivan who is known for running a very smooth and strict ring. The audience truly got their monies worth on this event. Ring announcer Sky Drysdale (Left) did a fantastic job as the announcer and put a classy touch on the whole show.

A surprise ending to one of the pro bouts though, a rematch between two top Super Middleweight fighters. Number 3 Pro Full Contact Rules World Ranked Ronnie Deleon from O'Fallon, Illinois, USA (54-12-4/17) and Number 2 Pro Full Contact Rules World Ranked Abu Zayd Nawaz of Burlington, Ontario, Canada (Pro: 17-5-1/10, over 100 amateur bouts) once again had a GREAT FIGHT... As Expected! However, in the end, as did last November, the bout ended in a draw.

These two are so evenly matched, we're sure to see a third match between them. The the third match may be for an IKF Pro Title. We'll have to wait and see what title it will be. IKF Pro FCR Middleweight World Champion Dave Marinoble of Roseville, California, USA (16-1-2/8) currently holds the North American title as well in the Super Middleweight division. If Marinoble is able to move up in weight and defend it, we may see one of these fighters fighting him for it in the future. However, if he elects to voluntarily vacate the title (A smart move since he holds the World Title at his best weight of Middleweight) we may see DeLeon and Nawaz fight for it. Don't forget or rule out IKF European Champion Dave Wilson though of St Helens, Merseyside, England. Either way, the Middleweight Division above and below it once again looks exciting... And don't forget... The IKF Super Middleweight WORLD Title is still VACANT!

Let's not forget the featured Main Event of the night though. Labree's fighter, Two Time IKF USA National Amateur Champion Dan Erickson (Left) fought in his Pro debut against Canada's Ali Kai who as an amateur built a record of 12 wins with 5 loses. In the bout, Erickson defeated Kai by TKO in round 3, which was nothing new for him. As an amateur Erickson posted a record of 20-1 with 10 KO/TKO's.

Mike Labree

First time IKF Promoter Dr. Jim Thomas (Right) and his U. S. National Martial Arts Team World Cup organization are all set for their weekend of martial arts action this weekend. On Saturday his team will kick off with the martial arts portion of their promotion. On Sunday will be some exciting bouts of IKF Kickboxing action.

As of press time we do not know how many competitors had registered for the event but hopefully before Sunday, we'll get some info back from either IKF Ambassador and event Representative Brooks Mason, (Right) IKF World Head of Officials and event Judge and Referee Dan Stell (Right) or Dr. Thomas himself. We also have no info on how many actual bouts have been matched up for this event... Why? Well, this is an "Open Invitation" tournament like the IKF Nationals. Fighters paid their own way (A travel package of about $1,200 which included travel fees, event registration and expenses) to go to Cancun for this event.

Some of the amateur fighters known to the IKF that are said to attend are Stephen Thompson, Peyton Russell and Tim Mazurkiewicz.

According to Dr. Thomas, this event is to establish a Team USA for the "World Alliance" Promotional organization. The Organization hopes to bring the winners of this event to their own World Martial Arts Alliance's "World Cup Event" in Greece in 2004. Although some had thought so, neither this event or the Greece event are related to the Olympics in any way. Of course everyone reading this would hope so, but the fact at present time is that Kickboxing IS NOT an Olympic sport and is not even an exhibition sport in the 2004 Olympics as some have said it to be. At least not yet. If it were, we assure you, we would be doing stories on this weekly and we would be a big part of it.

Dr. Thomas and his event staff are all in Mexico right now but if you wish to contact them when they return you can contact them at (765) 939-0780 or (765) 965-5425.

Brooks Mason

IKF Promoter Ray Thompson (Right) in conjunction with IronSpirit Promotions hosted the first annual IKF "Full Contact Rules" North American Kickboxing Championships at the Simpsonville Activity Center in Simpsonville, South Carolina, USA back in November of 2002. The event was filmed by Charter Communications. Charter is the third largest cable company in the United States.

Through efforts by Ray Thompson, (Right) Steve Fossum (Left) , Brooks Mason (Below Right) and Johnny Davis (Below Left) the IKF is having this first IKF North American Championship tournament aired for public viewing. While Thompson handled the promotional duties, Fossum and Mason handled the commentating of the event. Thompson, Fossum and Davis met earlier last year at the Charter Office in South Carolina to finalize the deal.

The event will be aired on Tuesday, January 28th at 9:PM and on Wednesday, February 5th at 12 noon on CSS (Charter Sports South). It will be a "TWO HOUR" special! Although this first showing will only be in the South East, USA, plans are in the works to have ALL the Charter affiliates air this event and many more IKF Events taking place around the Nation. The beauty of this is that this is the first of many IKF events to be filmed by Charter Communications. The same program will later air on Comcast Sports South as well.

Thompson is planning another IKF/Charter event in May.

So IKF Kickboxing fans, tune in to the fights on the 28th and enjoy. Also, get on the phone the next day and contact your local Charter office and let them know how much you enjoyed the fights and you'd like to see more.

Mr. Thompson started his Martial Arts training in March, 1974 at the age of 18. Since his beginning, he has studied many different fighting arts. He is ranked as a seventh degree Black Belt in Tetsu Shin Ryu Kempo Karate and a fifth degree Black Belt in Kempo. He is also a fifth degree Black Belt in Tetsu Shin Ryu Jujitsu, a fifth degree Black Belt in Karate-do, and fifth degree Black Belt in Kobudo (weapons). He earned his Blue Belt in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu under Rickson Gracie.

He is a second degree Black Belt in Kamishin-Ryu Karate, second degree Black Belt in Shorin-Ji Torakendo Kempo, and fourth degree Black Belt in American Karate. He has also earned Nidan in Kyudo (Japanese Archery)

Mr. Thompson's competition career has spanned many years and many championships including winning the first and only "Toughest Man in South Carolina" contest in 1980 which was the first and only sanctioned "NHB" type event in South Carolina. He has fought in full contact (kickboxing) matches and was a member of the U.S. Kickboxing Team which competed in France in 1988. While in France, Ray was known as the "Master of Disaster" by the French public.

He was also the Trainer and Manager of Gary "The Reap" Landreth who held the title of "North American Kickboxing Champion", before his retirement.

Along with training several Champions at his school (Upstate Karate in Simpsonville, South Carolina, USA), Ray is also the trainer and manager of his son Stephen "Wonder Boy" Thompson (Right) who holds over a dozen kickboxing titles himself including the IKF Amateur North American Title.

Richardson, Texas, USA: An agreement has been reached between the North American Combative Sports Organization (NACSO) & the International Kickboxing Federation (IKF) that will bring IKF sanctioning to the Lone Star State. NACSO Chairman Chuck Best (Left) stated, NACSO / www.kingdomkickboxing.com has been active with the IKF for the past several years.

We've participated in their annual IKF National Tournament, and this past year emerged with three (3) IKF National Champions. (Doyle Gayler, Kaufman, TX, Kornelija Numic, Dallas, Texas and Cody Cook, Mansfield, Texas) We recently traveled to Simpsonville, South Carolina for the IKF-North American Championships, and finalized our decision to work together (NACSO & IKF) while the Championships were ongoing."

The IKF is the largest sanctioning body for kickboxing in the World, as well as being the most active in full-contact rules kickboxing, international rules, as well as Muay-Thai. The IKF has divisions for men and women, kids and youth, along with its adult divisions. Additionally, IKF sanctions both amateur and professional matches throughout the World. At present, NACSO & IKF have no plans to do anything on the professional level in Texas, however, plans are in the offing for the first annual IKF-Texas Championships; tentatively slated for April of 2003. The Texas Championships will serve as a qualifier for the IKF National Tournament to be held in August.

"I cannot stress enough how valuable the cooperation and enthusiasm from IKF President Steve Fossum has been in bringing the IKF to Texas. Steve is a true mavin of the martial-arts as a sport, and has dedicated his life to taking our sport into the mainstream. We feel blessed to be associated with Steve and the entire IKF Team. Additionally, the input and encouragement of Texas Boxing Commissioner Dick Cole have been paramount to our decision to make this move at this time. Mr. Cole doesn't get near the credit he deserves for helping to create a growing environment for kickboxing in Texas, we think the world of him", stated Best.

Best and his team will host their first IKF Sanctioned event this Saturday night, January, 25th at The Fightatorium (Right) in Richardson, Texas, USA. The event entitled "LETS ROLL!" will feature several top amateur kickboxers in Texas and will start at 8:PM. For more info, call Chuck Best or Steve Goin at (972) 889-0129, or e-mail them at juno.com@sirkikman or visit www.kingdomkickboxing.com

Rocklin, CA, USA
Johnny Davis and his Art of Kickboxing Promotions company are all set to "Rock" the foundation of the City of Rocklin, CA, USA with the city's first ever Point Kickboxing© tournament! The event will be held at the beautiful Sunset Center. "Pre-Registration forms have been coming in strong and several Kickboxing schools in the California area have committed to many more entries on the day of the event!" "We are anticipating the best Point Kickboxing© event to date!" says IKF Point Kickboxing© Director Johnny Davis.

Davis continues, "It's always great to hear from some of the competitors who still have jitters about competing in Point Kickboxing© because this may be their first event." 'However, they always seem to counter their fear by saying that they would much rather be entering a semi-contact event than a full contact event where the chances of getting hurt are much greater.' It seems to be clear that many are really beginning to see how important Point Kickboxing© is for the growth and longevity of the sport."

Century 14 and 16 oz. Boxing gloves, head gear and chest protectors will be available at the event but gyms are encouraged to bring their own approved equipment if possible. Men, Women and Children will compete for beautiful 1st, 2nd and 3rd Place trophies. Beginner and Advanced divisions will be available. Spectators only pay $5 to attend while Seniors (65 or Older) and children under 3 years old attend for FREE! There will also be a well stocked Canteen of drinks and food available! Registration starts at 9:00 AM, Officials and Rule meetings for all coaches and participants starts at 11:AM and Eliminations "kicks" off at 12:noon sharp.

See this page for Registration and Rules: www.IKFKickboxing.com/PKB.htm

Davis further reports: IKF Point Kickboxing© is for the Muay Thai fighter too... The name Point Kickboxing© seems to throw off the Muay Thai fighter, thinking this event is not for them, but not so. There is a (PMT) which stands for Point Muay Thai division for IKF Point Kickboxing© tournaments. We chose to make a clear distinction in the two divisions. This PMT division is also semi contact and allows kicks to the legs as well as knees to the body. (chest protectors are mandatory for Junior divisions). No elbows and no knee strikes to the face are allowed. All PMT fighters are required to wear shorts.

We are finding that some of the Muay Thai fighters feel that PMT takes away from what Muay Thai fighters are suppose to do with the leg kick... and that is to stop and or "take the legs" of the opponent. Thus, hindering them to continue.

The PMT fighters are required to wear shin pads and foot pads that cover the toes. This is to protect them and their opponents. We feel that working on timing and techniques in Point Kickboxing© and Point Muay Thai tournaments will make the MuayThai fighter even more effective as well as prepared for the full contact arena. Therefore, we are quick to "point" out that even the Muay Thai fighter has to spar in order to become effective. We would like to think they are not breaking the legs and ribs of their sparring partners. Furthermore, we are only interested in building the sport of Kickboxing and Muay Thai. In order to do so, we must first give those who may be tentative about the contact an outlet to participate before leaping into areas that may be non productive to their health and fighting spirit. This event is not for those who wish to knockout or injure their opponent. However, it is for the Muay Thai fighters who strives to better their skills and get in some good "semi contact" matches as well as spar diverse styles and opponents. We look forward to the Muay Thai Kickboxing community's attendance at this exciting event.

For more info, contact Johnny Davis at Art of Kickboxing Promotions (916) 780-7483 or by e-mail at johnnyd@netwiz.net

Footnote:
IKF Point Kickboxing© was specifically designed for the beginner Kickboxer (under 2 years of MA training) but will also assist the advanced Kickboxer (over two years of MA training) to better their skills. Point Kickboxing© allows them the opportunity to concentrate on technique as opposed to focusing on not being knocked out. There are no knockouts allowed in IKF Point Kickboxing© and contact is strictly enforced. You can only win a bout on points. The bouts are judged like a "ten point must system" bout. Meaning the winner gets "10" and the loser of the bout "9" or less. This is the general idea, although after most bouts the judges simply point to the winner of the continuous one, two or three minute round bout. The true difference here is the style. For years, Point Karate tournaments have flourished all over the world but the techniques one uses in a Point Karate tournament (backfist, ridgehands etc.) are mostly ineffective and not allowed in Kickboxing.

Point Kickboxers have to maintain the form and style of a Kickboxer or most certainly face defeat. Competitors who have done Point Karate tournaments and even Domination style fighting find Point Kickboxing© totally different. One big difference is the 12 and 16 oz. gloves and "real" boxing techniques that really challenges ones conditioning. If your guard is not up and chin down, you are more likely to be out pointed.

Point Kickboxing© allows you to keep the fighting form of Kickboxing as opposed to switching back and forth from Karate. IKF Point Kickboxing© is not only the next step out of the gym for the eventual full contact fighter but is another outlet for the IKF to continue building the sport of Kickboxing's bright future!

On January 17th, 2003, I was in Atlantic City, New Jersey, USA because one of my fighters Tarek Rached was fighting for a Middleweight title against Peter keljavick. While they had a good fight that my fighter won by decision, I did not know that there would be more action in the lobby much later that night.

I was actually out for the evening with some of Peter keljavick's training partners celebrating a good night for kickboxing at the Tropicana Casino Hotel in Atlantic City, New Jersey (Left). When we returned to the hotel lobby late that evening we were talking and saying good night when we heard a women screaming. As we where looking for where the screams came from, no sooner than I could turn around and my friend and heavyweight kickboxer Fred "Iceman" Inozi was running around the corner to help out. By the time that I turned the corner Fred was already helping the girl and fighting with 5 young drunk guys in the hall. He was doing very good by himself but I of course helped him out. We used our experience as fighters to contend them enough that they started to run. Fred's 2 students then came and also helped to get them to run away.

Apparently these drunk guys would not take no for an answer and they where trying to get the young women to go to there room with them. I am happy the woman was not hurt and that we where able to help her when it was needed. Actually no one was hurt that badly and I think that this is due to our martial arts experience that we did just enough to stop there aggression which is what the law allows.

I have learned a lot in my many year in martial arts and the most important thing I have learned is to keep my cool when it counts. If these same guys would have ran into me before my martial arts training I actually would have not kept my cool and more than likely would be in Jail for my actions. I do not think that these drunk guys where aware of how serious there actions where and many young people can learn from there mistakes. I do not think that if they where sober they would have even thought of taken such actions. My point being that we all learned something from this situation. Lets hope that none of us are ever in this situation again.

To contact Mr. Battone, Click his e-mail link here: tommybeeatafc@yahoo.com

IKF Georgia, USA
Atlanta's Mark Selbee can't tell you much about what it is like to experience defeat. It's just not something that the fifth degree black belt master of Tae Kwon Do knows much about. In each and every competitive arena in which he has tested himself and his art, he has excelled and hit heights commensurate with his six foot, five inch physical frame. As a Tae Kwon Do competitor, Selbee, who also posses a black belt in Hap Ki Do, had virtually unparalleled success and dominance. Selbee was undefeated as a sparring competitor in ten consecutive U.S.T.U. (United States - TaeKwonDo - Union) sanctioned tournaments. Eleven times, he was an A.K.T.A. (American - Karate - TaeKwonDo - Association) National Grand Champion in sparring. In 1994, he was a U.S. Open Bronze World Medallist at a competition held at the U.S. Olympic Training Center. But there is more.

Selbee is currently the ninth ranked heavyweight kickboxer in the world by the IKF. He has won all of his professional kickboxing fights by either knock-out or referee stoppage. And it does not stop there. Selbee recently ventured out into the world of ISCF sanctioned mixed martial arts fighting. He was again successful, winning his first such bout in a mere 47 seconds. So it would appear that Washburn University graduate has accomplished his professed goal of, "Proving myself a master of martial combat."

For most, all of those achievements would be enough, but not for Selbee. He wants more. He wants the IKF Pro U.S. Title. That won't be easy.

Looming on the horizon for him is the omnipresent IKF U.S. Heavyweight Champion Kevin "Hurricane" Hudson, a man whose congenial demeanor outside of the ring is belied by his proficiency in dispatching opponents inside of it. Hudson, something of an icon to many in his native state of South Carolina, will be Selbee's biggest challenge of all. IKF had the opportunity to get Mark Selbee's perspective on his upcoming bout with Hudson. Our questions and Selbee's responses are set out below.

IKF: Mark, what it your strategy for the you upcoming fight with Kevin Hudson?
Mark Selbee: My job is to fight smart and not make any mistakes. Kevin is an experienced fighter and knows how to capitalize. I will be looking for an opportunity to use my power.

IKF: What are your thoughts on your opponent?
Mark Selbee: "Kevin is a veteran fighter who is well trained. Training with guys like Joe Lewis doesn't hurt! He can go the distance and has great accuracy with his punches. He is a PRO. I look forward to the test!"

IKF: How do you feel about the opportunity to compete for the IKF US Title, especially in Atlanta?
Mark Selbee: "The IKF is without question, the dominant force in Kickboxing. Fighting for a title like this is huge. The only other event that comes close for me personally is when I medalled at the US Open, which was held at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs. As far as fighting in front of the Atlanta fight scene goes. All of my training partners, friends and co-workers will be in the crowd and I don't want to disappoint them. I will be ready to do my best."

IKF: How will your tae kwon do background play into to your game in the ring?
Mark Selbee: "I won't be nervous, I have been in big fights like this before. My job is to stay cool and go to work. Combinations of punches and kicks coming in at different angles is hard to defend. I have had several KO's that people have seen here in Atlanta with my right hand and right leg but I have other tools that I haven't had a chance to show.

IKF: What can the fans expect from your IKF U.S. title bout?
Mark Selbee: Kevin and I both have great kicks and heavy hands, it should make for a great fight!

Selbee will be fighting out of Chris Stolzman's highly prominent and successful LA Boxing of Atlanta. Part of his fight team, however, will include his former trainer and past World Champion Chuck Wolfe, (Left, with Mark) who will travel down from the state of Kansas to help corner the challenger.

Not one to fail to recognize efforts made on his behalf, with a touch of class, Selbee expressed his respect and appreciation for promoter Brett Moses, and the entire IKF team, particularly those in Georgia. In a recent E-mail to IKF Georgia State Director, Mike Carlson, Selbee closed by saying, "Thanks for your support, I won't forget who gave me the chance!"

Selbee's bout with Hudson will be the main event of the February Fight Party in Atlanta, Georgia on Saturday, February 1, 2003, to be held at the DeKalb-Atlanta Centre. For more information, contact promoter Brett Moses at not_tank@hotmail.com or call the Fight Party Hotline at (404) 315-7235.

(Fight Card Subject To Change)

If you won a Billion dollars today, what would you do with it? Would you keep it all for yourself or would you create something great so that you can share it with others? Imagine what you could do, what would you change in the world? Better yet, "Who would you become in the process... would the money change you?" Would it make you a better person, a powerful person or would you turn the other way and would it make you an evil person? All that money, scary to think about, but fun to dream isn't it...

Japan
When it first started, people asked "K what?" However within 5 years, Kazuyoshi Ishii took his dream of the ultimate fighting sport, the promotion of K-1, and made it the "Big Giant of Kickboxing! He grabbed the interest of everyone in the sport with it's big money purses, worldwide exposure and Grand Prix Finals crowds of 70,000 plus. Simply put, Ishii and K-1 were "IT!"

Before long, nearly every pro heavyweight in the sport was trying to get selected to participate on a K-1 event. So much that it was hard for a lot of promoters to even match heavyweights on their promotions due to exclusive K-1 fighting contracts. The purse money K-1 offered far outweighed the purses most promoters could offer. Was this bad for the sport? Of course not. Who wouldn't be in favor of fighters making better purse money? No one! But was it the answer every kickboxer wanted? Well, despite the great purses K-1 had to offer there were and still are limits.

It seemed the company was surly the answer to the sports future, well at least for the heavyweights (With the recent addition of middleweights last year) and those who were already leg kick style fighters. For them, it was the answer they all had waited for. Big Money and Big Exposure! But money entices people to do things they may not have done under different circumstances. With the potential of the K-1 money, it was no different for the full contact (Above the waist style rules) fighters who felt they needed to make the switch to K-1 - leg kick and knee strike style bouts if they wanted to make the big money. Some were able to make the switch successfully while for others, the quest for the big money not only caused them great injury to their legs, but for some those injuries ended their careers.

If your involved in kickboxing, you know what the letters K-1 stand for. It's provided impressive excitement and fast paced entertainment with it's 1 evening, 8 man tournament style format and big dollar productions. So much that many use the K-1 style rules in their own promotions. (A mix of muaythai without elbows or knees to the head, with the addition of International rules, with kicks to the legs) Yes, K-1 had arrived!

However, this last December, some negative news came from the great giant of K-1. We can't think of one person who wasn't shocked when the story broke about K-1 Boss Ishii and his tax problems (Confirmed today by a press release shown below). When the story came out, more and more rumors started to fly and fingers started to point. K-1 looked in question and since the Ishii story, we've received several e-mails with additional info surrounding the story and K-1's future. However, we remain supportive of K-1 in hopes these negative rumors are simply that, rumors. Some said the news was the end of K-1 while others simply said it was a small setback. For the sake of the sport and all that money the fighters were making, lets hope it's just a setback.

K-1 USA seems to be on schedule with no plans of cancelling the event as many have questioned so if you had planned to be there, we hope to see you there in May. No matter what we think or want to believe, only time will determine what the future has in store for all the K-1 events around the world. Although several names have been noted, the truth is it's still unsure who will take over K-1 now that Ishii has stepped down. "WHAT" will happen to K-1 seems to be the bigger question, that is, in regards to it's future plans which will come direct from it's headquarters in Japan. Lets just hope the excitement and the entertainment continues and those in Japan don't choose to promote something else instead...

Or have they already?

WRESTLE-1 is a new pro wrestling association in Japan. They recently held a show at the Tokyo Dome. The show was labeled as "Battle Entertainment of Bob Sapp." Sources tell us that Sapp is the mastermind along with Mutoh behind these shows, with PRIDE & K-1 (Yes...K-1) having vested interests. K-1... Please, tell us it isn't so!!!

So what did fans see at this show? They saw 2, K-1 stars going at it... Bob Sapp came out to Madonna's "Holiday" song and danced to the ring. Sapp then grabbed the microphone and said toErnesto Hoost at ringside, "Hi, Mr. Perfect Loser!" to which Hoost responded, "Bob, boy, I am Mr. Perfect... the Perfect Beast!" and this set up Sapp vs Hoost in the main event. Hoost defeated Sapp in 5 minutes, 15 seconds with what was described as a school-boy roll-up in a fight that featured trash-talking and chair shots (See Right).

As described by sources;
The match featured low-grade offense, including Sapp trying to use an STF (Hoost gave him one, instead) and Hoost trying some flying moves. They did an angle in which Vos, who's gym that Hoost trains at (and is a 50-year old man), did a run-in and Sapp tried to attack him and Hoost ended up blasting Sapp with a chair and school-boying Sapp for the finish. Just said to be an absolute mess that tried to promote the strength of K-1 but came off as goofy. The funniest thing from the fight is that Hoost attempted a cobra twist and said that his "sensei" Vos taught him how to do it. Although they claimed 40,000 paid, this was far from the truth. Simply put, it was no K-1 Grand Prix!

See more pictures by clicking HERE!

So what will happen if K-1 turns to pro wrestling? Could such a thing happen? If so, who will take over the "Tournament Style Events?" Well, look around, many are already trying to duplicate Ishii's invention of K-1 already. Here in North America, in Europe, you name it, there are plenty who want the lifestyle Ishii lived for years. To be looked upon as many did him, with the awe as well as the respect he earned. Not to mention the gate money a "K-1 Tournament Style" event hopes to bring in. To the heavyweights and their trainers, Ishii was the most powerful man in the sport and some of these new tournament style promoters want to be respected by their peers as he was. But will they?

Ishii was and still is a great man, but it wasn't his smile that earned his power within the sport. It wasn't even the idea of a Tournament Style event. The simple truth is, it was the endless supply of money he was able to offer. So many ask, "Without the money, what does a tournament event offer?" Answer, A lot of work for very little return... None of these other events have the exposure power K-1 can offer. Many of these events will happen and only a small portion of people will know about the results, so count out that great "Exposure" aspect. Does fighting 3 times in one day sound like something a Pro fighter should be doing in our sport? Tournaments are best for Amateurs, but for Pro kickboxers? We don't see Pro boxers doing tournaments...

Without the big K-1 money, is it worth it? A $300 - $500 show up purse and if you become the "1" of the "8" fighters that win it, how much will you win? A $2,000, $2,500 grand prize? What about the other 7 fighters? What do they go home with other than the opportunity to say they helped organize an 8 man tournament. Is this worth 3 fights in one night? To some, maybe so but to others, it seems a single fight purse looks more desirable when compared to a tournament. Tournaments are a step back, not a step forward in our sport. Fighters NEED to earn more, but where will the money come from? Where are the big sponsors? Where is the TV exposure to draw the sponsors forward?

To earn that Ishii respect the road better be paved with BIG $$$ because without it a tournament style event has little to offer the fighters. K-1 had and probably still has that "Endless money" and no one seems to care where it comes from, as long as they get paid, and paid well. MONEY is the ONLY thing that will make such a BIG EVENT work and we can only hope the $$$ K-1 has available to them stay in kickboxing. In addition, let's hope that someday there is enough for everyone to do their job well and make the sport more than it is today. We can only hope...

See who all has fought on a K-1 event (Even some amateur undercard fighters) by clicking HERE!

As announced here on our December News Page, the rumors about K-1 and Mr. Ishii were confirmed today with a press release sent to the IKF. This news can also be found on the K-1 page by clicking HERE. The press release reads;

Announcement to
K-1 International Fans

As the result of a tax investigation launched last year by Japanese officials, Kazuyoshi Ishii announced on December 28, 2002 that he had decided to step down as K-1 President. Under these circumstances, the K-1 event scheduled for January 26 in Kochi, Japan, has been postponed.

Other already scheduled events and international tournaments are not affected by the recent developments, and K-1's complete domestic and international 2003 schedule will resume in March, 2003. K-1 regrets any inconvenience caused to fighters and fans.

Wilesmith

Our congratulations go out to IKF Australia's Kru Robert Wilesmith (Left) B.S.Sc.). Robert is a dad again and this time his first daughter. Her name is Alexandra Pearl Wilesmith. Robert and Jill came over to the USA for the Holidays to see Jill's family in Wyoming. While in here, Alexandra was born at 9.53 PM, January 15th at Sheridan Memorial Hospital in Wyoming. Alexandra was 8 lbs & 53cm tall (21 inches). Both Jill & Baby are fine & were released out of hospital later today. Robert will be leaving back to Australia this coming Thursday, January 23rd.

Robert is the owner of Thunderlegs Promotions and has promoted IKF Pro World Title events in Australia. He is responsible for helping both Ali Hallak (Right) and Holly Fernerley (Below Right) become 3 time IKF Pro World Champions. Both are always looking for challengers, but no one seems to want to step up to the plate and "Bring It ON!"

He is also the owner of Fit4Perfection Personal Training. He is also a Master Muaythai KickBoxing - Pro Fitness Trainer & Professional Rugby League & Sports Coach. The Rugby League has kept him so busy he hasn't had any time to promote events in the past year and a half in Australia.

For those who wish to contact Robert, his contact numbers are, Phone/Fax International: 61-7-5528-2771 (QLD), Phone/Fax Local: (07) 5528-2771, Mobile Local: (043) 888-9611, International: 61-43-888-9611, E-mail Kickboxing: thunder2@hotmail.com Email Personal Training: Fit4perfection@hotmail.com.

Ali Hallak


Fernerley

Mark Selbee

With just a few weeks left to go, promoter Brett Moses announces his February Fight Party bout card. And as the last few matches come together, it is clear that what is currently set is reflective of an exemplary effort.

"I wanted to provide some variety in the types of matches that the fans would see,"
said Moses, "I hope that they will be pleased."

They should be. In addition to the "anchor bouts," which include an IKF Professional U.S. Heavyweight title defense of champion Kevin Hudson (Right) and challenger Mark Selbee (Left) and the rematch between ISCF East Coast U.S. Middleweight Champion Jason Miller and Todd Carney, the February Fight Party will host competitors from a wide array of fight camps and bouts from a variety of rules styles.

IKF and ISCF World President, Steve Fossum is impressed with Moses' effort, thus far, "As we all can see, Brett has put together yet another great night of kickboxing and MMA in Georgia. I look forward to being at ringside to witness all these bouts." At press time, the February Fight Part line up is as follows:

Kevin Hudson

1. Main Event: IKF United States FCR Heavyweight Title *Defense: *Kevin Hudson (Champion) Vs Mark Selbee (Challenger)
   
   
2. Co-Main Event: ISCF East Coast Us Middleweight title *Defense: *Jason Miller (Champion) Vs Todd Carney (Challenger)
   
   
3. Co-Main Event: (Non-Title bout) ISCF MMA: Steve Headen (ISCF Southeast Us Middleweight Champion) Vs Franz Mendez
   
   
4. Co-Main Event IKF Muay Thai: Sherri Thompson Vs TBA.
   
   
5. ISCF MMA: John Wehby Vs Jeff Bedard (US Olympic Wrestling Training Center Resident)
   
   
6. ISCF Heavyweight MMA: Kevin Brooks Vs Jason Jones (Raw Team)
   
   
7. ISCF Lightweight MMA: (Non-Title bout) Shaun "The Executioner" Porter (ISCF East Coast Lightweight Champ) Vs. Keith Wilson.
   
   
8. ISCF Welterweight MMA: Tony Tucci (LA Boxing) Vs. TBA.
   
   
9. ISCF MMA: Cheyenne Buchanon (Suua Khai) Vs Rob Smith (Contact Sports Club)
   
   
10. ISCF Heavyweight MMA: Pee Wee Mccall Vs Tom Kirk.
    
    
11. Pro ISCF MMA Debut: Dan Anchetta (Hardcore Gym) Vs Doug Edwards (Contact Sports Club)
    
    
12. ISCF Amateur MMA: Andy Foster (United Karate) Vs Jim Cruce.
    
    
13. ISCF Amateur MMA: Shawn Gonzalez (Ross) Chandler Oakes (Myrtle Bch., South Carolina, USA)

"We are in final negotiations with opponents for LA Boxing's Tony Tucci and Sheri Thompson" said Moses. "Finding an opponent willing to fight Sheri has been hard." When asked if his card really does represent a "smorgasbord" of fights, Moses whimsically responds, "I just hope everybody comes back for some second helpings!"

February Fight Party will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2003, at the DeKalb-Atlanta Center in Atlanta, Georgia. The venue telephone number is (404) 982-0989. For more information, Mr. Moses can be reached at not_tank@hotmail.com or call the Fight Party Hotline at (404) 315-7235.

(fight card subject to change)

Mike Labree

IKF Promoter and former IKF Pro Super Heavyweight World Champion Mike Labree (Left) is all set to host tomorrow nights IKF USA Vs IKF Canada Kickboxing Event at the LCO Casino & Lodge in Hayward Wisconsin, USA.

The event will feature an extremely impressive card of both amateur and pro kickboxers. The feature fight will be the Pro debut of Two Time IKF USA National Amateur Champion Dan Erickson (Right, 20-1 with 10 wins by KO/TKO). Erickson won the 2001 IKF USA National Amateur Heavyweight Title after he worked his way through the full bracket winning 2 of his 3 bouts by TKO/KO. In his first bout he defeated John Davidson of Georgia by TKO at 1:07 of round 1. In his second bout he defeated Tim Mazurkiewicz of Roscoe, Illinois by unanimous decision, 30-24, 30-25 & 30-25 to advance to the final. In the final he defeated Wil Joseph of Dallas, Texas by TKO at 1:18 of the 2nd round. In Erickson's first bout of the tournament he had

At the 2002 IKF USA National Amateur Championships he was the defending Champion with the number one seed. In the final he successfully defended his Title when he defeated Mark Mortensen of Lake Zurich, Illinois by unanimous decision 29-26 on all 3 judges cards.

Saturday night Erickson will face Ali Kai of Toronto, Ontario, Canada who will also be making his Pro debut. Kai brings a record of 12 wins with 5 loses to the ring against Erickson. While Erickson is expected to weigh in at around 215 lbs, Kai plans to be a bit heavier at 220. However Erickson will have the reach and height advantage since he stands 6'5" tall as compared to Kai at 6' even.

In the other action of the night, fans will see some of the best North American Pro as well as amateur kickboxers in the game. Here's the rest of the nights match-ups;

• PRO
  Ronnie Deleon (O'Fallon, Illinois, USA, 54-12-4/17, 170)
  VS Abu Zayd Nawaz (Burlington, Ontario, Canada, PK: 17-5-1/10, AK: Over 100 bouts, 160)
  This will be a rematch of their exciting fight last November which ended in a draw.
  
  
• PRO
  Ricky "The Wolfe" Haines, (Rockford, Illinois, USA, 27-8-1/17, 165)
  VS Kerry Hendren (Lindsey, Ontario, Canada, 22-4-1, 165)
  
  
• PRO
  Ernie Ketterman (Belleville, Illinois, USA, 26-5, 165)
  VS Martin "Crash" Cantin (Ontario, Canada, 160)
  
  
• PRO
  Heath Fonnest (Forest Lake, Minnesota, USA, 10-2, 141)
  VS Jessie Rai (Toronto, Ontario, Canada, 6-2, 135)
  
  
• AMATEUR
  Peyton Russell (Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA, 28-4/6, 165, Two time IKF USA National Amateur Champion, 2001 & 2002)
  VS Brent Atkinson (Toronto, Ontario, Canada, 7-0, 165)
  
  
• AMATEUR
  Tim Mazurkiewicz (Roscoe, Illinois, USA, 16-3/13, 1999 IKF USA National Amateur Light Cruiserweight Champion)
  VS Brian Douglas (Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, 10-0, 185)
  
  
• AMATEUR:
  Jennifer Thyssen (DePree Wisconsin, USA, 16-3-1/4, 147, Two time IKF USA National Amateur Champion, 1999 & 2001)
  VS Maria Jilsen (Peterborough, Ontario, Canada, 5-0, 145)
  
  
• AMATEUR
  Matt Myers (Spooner, Wisconsin, USA, 9-3, 158)
  VS Randy Morriosi (Peterborough, Ontario, Canada, 6-0, 160)
  
  
• AMATEUR
  Stephanie Dutton (Eau Claire, Wisconsin, USA, 3-1, 138)
  VS Martine Clement (Canada, 5-1, 125)
  
  
• AMATEUR
  Joe Martell (Grandview, Wisconsin, USA, 0-1, 180)
  VS Paul Morisson (Peterborough, Ontario, Canada, 0-0, 180)
  
  
• AMATEUR
  Justus Keenen (Spooner, Wisconsin, USA, 0-0, 195)
  VS Gatin Boutin (Toronto, Ontario, Canada, 0-1, 195)
  
  
• AMATEUR
  Brittnay Roberts (Cable, Wisconsin, USA, 0-2, 115)
  VS Kelly Spickler (Eau Claire, Wisconsin, USA, 115)
  
  

Erickson

Tickets for the event are $25, $30, $35 & $50. To purchase tickets via phone, call 1-800-LCO-CASH or Contact Mr. Mike LaBree at (715) 798-3825. For lodging call Hayward Chamber of Commerce at 1-800-724-2995 or Cable Chamber at (715) 798-3832. the nights Judges will be Mike Fitzgerald, Tom Sullivan & Jim Amundson. The IKF Event Representative will be Don Metz. The Event Referees will be Bob Lynch & Mark Bjelland. The ring announcer will be IKF Promoter Sky Drysdale. For more info contact Mr. Mike LaBree at (715) 798-3825 or go to www.lcocasino.com.

The job of selecting the IKF Promoter of the Year here at the IKF is always harder than one thinks. With so many aspects to look at and so many promoters, it's a job that pretty much no one here like to do. This can be said for ALL the IKF Yearly Awards (Which will all be announced over the next week or so). How can we pick just one or two or even just three? There are SO MANY! It's hard! So this year, we decided to give "2" Promoter of the Year Awards. One to the best Amateur Promoter and one to the best Pro and Amateur Promoter. We will announce the IKF Pro/Am Promoter of the Year award later. Today we will announce the 2002 IKF Amateur Promoter of the Year...

Jesse Finney And His Finney Kickboxing Promotional Team

In 2002, IKF Promoter Jesse Finney (Right) and his Finney's Kickboxing Team of St Louis, Missouri, USA promoted a total of 15 IKF Sanctioned events. It wasn't the number of the events they were awarded for, but the "QUALITY!" Just ask IKF World Ambassador and Representative Brooks Mason. Mason has had the pleasure of being the IKF Representative on many of Finney's shows and if we allowed him to, he would fill up this page with Finney Credits.

"Jesse Finney is without a doubt, the most prolific promoter in America today. He is consistently developing new and innovative ways to solicit sponsorships to be able to promote quality events for both the fighters and the fans of the sport. He is literally rewriting the book on how to promote kickboxing."
Says Mason

Finney's fights are more than just a kickboxing event with some amateur fights. Without talking about the glitz and glamour of the production itself, lets talk about THE FIGHTS! Finney's Promotional Team does not just bring in fighters that are easy matches for their fighters. Last year they brought in several "Proven IKF Champions" (See Below) to their events. This was a big factor in our selection of them as a Top Promoter for 2002.

We know a lot of great promoters both in the IKF as well as other organizations (Both Pro and Amateur) that have Great Events and Great Excitement! Not that the others don't have Great Fights and Great Events but one thing we can say is that the Finney Team TRULY brings in TOP Fighters to "Walk The Walk" CONSISTENTLY! This is what impressed us most and not only this but the Finney fighters don't always win like a hometown promoter would want. They know to be the best they need to Fight the BEST! Which explains why their fighters have their hands full for this year.

Although Jesse is the Main Man behind all the event organizing, he has a Dynamic Team associated with him. One of those Team Members is Rob Donaker, Finney's Promotional Team Vice President of Operations. Both Finney and Donaker work as Kickboxing's "One - Two Punch" when it comes to "Making Things Happen!" Along with the rest of the Team the Finney Crew packs a punch and some kicks as well, that lead the way to the Non Stop Action for not just St Louis, but for Kickboxing fighters and fans around the globe!

St Louis & Finney's For 2003...

Now that the New Year confetti and the champagne toasts are over, many people are looking forward to a eventful and exciting new year. This holds true in St. Louis. On any night of the year Lucky's Night Club is known to people in St. Louis as the best place to go. But in 2003, on 19 nights of the year, kickboxing invades the 50,000 square foot mega club. That's correct! In 2003 Finney's has scheduled 19 IKF and ISCF (International Sport Combat Federation - MMA/NHB) sanctioned events.

Finney's fight cards have always been one to draw the attention of many in the kickboxing world. Just look at some of the ones from 2002. In July, the vacant IKF North American Amateur Super Welterweight Title was on the line. This fight had Canada's Mark "The Machine" Hominick versus St. Louis native Marc "The Hammer" Mayfield. This went the distance, with Hominick winning the 5 round bout by decision, and was hailed by Brooks Mason as the best amateur bout he has ever witnessed.

In September, after a 2 year lay off "The Golden Boy"Jesse Finney stepped back into the ring and showed everyone that he still has what it takes to be a champion, defeating Curtis Christopher by TKO in the 2nd round.

The final event was on December 7th, and showcased two of the top amateurs in the US. Kevin Engal from St. Louis went down in weight to fight undefeated Anthony McGaughy, from Norman, OK. The two battled the entire fight, with Engal winning by the 4 round bout by decision. We would all like to see a rematch of this bout, but this time for "5 Rounds".

In 2003 Finney's is going to introduce St. Louis fight fans to a wide range of styles. Finney's is going away from their traditional all Full- contact cards, and will start holding some Muay Thai, International Rules, and NHB/MMA. The St. Louis fans got a taste of NHB/MMA in 2002, when Finney's put them on the cards after the ISCF (International Sport Combat Federation - MMA/NHB) got approved by the Missouri Athletic Commission.

NHB/MMA is starting to prosper in St. Louis, with King of the Cage Veteran Mike Rogers and UFC Veteran Steve Berger both living there and trying to get the sport more recognized. The cards in 2003 will most likely be made up of 5 full-contact rules, 1 Muay Thai/International Rules, and 3 NHB/MMA fights.

Some of the possible fights and fighters you might see in 2003. On March 29th, Finney's will be putting on there Annual "Shrine Fight Night". This is held in Springfield, Illinois, USA at the Ansar Shrine Temple. This night is complete with a cocktail hour, hors o' dourves, and a prime rib dinner.

Finney's is planning on bringing the best fighters to St. Louis. In 2002 they brought in Anthony McGaughey of Oklahoma and Marc Hominick of Canada. Finney's is hoping to continue this by bringing in proven IKF Champions such as Stephen Thompson and Peyton Russell. Both have won the USA Nationals and the IKF North American Tournament in their weightclasses. Finney's is also looking at some regional and state ISCF titles.

Now having two gym, Finney's is looking at expanding to another location south of St. Louis. Teamed up with their main sponsor St. Louis Workout, Finney's has gyms in two excellent locations. One in Crestwood Shopping Mall, and the other in The Chase Park Plaza.

Finney's Championship Kickboxing and Martial Arts at Crestwood

Crestwood Mall hosts more than 140 specialty stores, a Food Court with more than 10 different dining options, a theater, and over 5,976 parking spaces. This gym offers:

• Mens Kickboxing and Boxing
• Womens Kickboxing and Boxing
• NHB/MMA
• Kids Kickboxing
• Personal Lessons

Finney's Championship Kickboxing and Martial Arts at The Chase

The Chase Park Plaza now over one million square feet of unique and luxurious guest suites, five fabulous restaurants, impeccable banquet and meeting facilities, a five screen cinema and an indescribable array of lavish indulgences. This gym offers:

• Mens Kickboxing and Boxing
• Womens Kickboxing and Boxing
• Personal Lessons

Finney's Championship Kickboxing and Martial Arts has plenty of fighters that are eager to get into the ring. One fighter that is patiently waiting to fight is Marc Mayfield. He is out with an injury until July 2003, but be ready to hear from him once again at 2003 IKF USA Nationals. Finney's is looking to do more team competition fights in 2003 as well. This is bringing in teams of 4 or more to fight the St. Louis team. If anyone is interest please e-mail the Finney Camp at finneys@finneyskickboxing.com or call them at (314) 351-5226. For Finney's Championship Kickboxing and Martial Arts, the sky is the limit on what they can do for Kickboxing and Mixed Martial Arts in the future. For more info, see their website at www.FinneysKickboxing.com

Champions have a habit of winning and such is the case with 2 IKF Champions out of Arizona, USA. Training out of the Hard Knocks Gym in Phoenix, 2001 (Junior Girls Light Heavyweight) & 2002 (Junior Girls Light Cruiserweight) IKF USA National Amateur Champion Alyssa De Fazio (Left) added yet another Title to her trophy case. De Fazio won the 2002 Sliver Gloves Regional Title and has just recently won the 2003 Sliver Gloves Regional Title, winning with a 2nd round TKO.
Training at the same gym, fellow fighter Brook Locklear (Right) was the 2001 (Junior Girls Atomweight) IKF USA National Amateur Champion. Locklear just won the 2003 Sliver Gloves Regenal Title in her division by decision.

The Sliver Gloves tournament system does not let the girl fighters go to the Nationals, only the boys can go to the Nationals. The girl fighters can fight in the State Championship then go to the Regionals, but that's it. Hopefully sometime soon they will let the girls go to the Nationals since as anyone knows, they train just as hard and sometimes even harder then the boy fighters. They DESERVE the opportunity!

The two ladies are trained by Clement and Rhonda Vierra of "The Hard Knox Gym" in Phoenix Arixona, USA. The Vierras (Like Team Finney out of St Louis) have a lot of event action scheduled for 2003. A total of six IKF Sanctioned Events scheduled which include January 28th as well as one in March, May, July, September and November with confirmed dates yet to be announced. For more info on Hard Knocks Gym, and their events you can contact them at (602) 493-1567 or by e-mail at hardknocksgym@aol.com

01/09/03-01:39 By Zach Arnold
PRIDE/Dream Stage Entertainment boss Naoto Morishita (Right, age 42, President of Dream Stage Entertainment (DSE), which promotes the Pride events) committed suicide in his hotel room in Shinjuku, Tokyo. Morishita's body was found at 12:45 AM today and he hung himself to death with a belt.

The cause of suicide is now being investigated by Shinjuku police. The suicide took place right after Morishita's press release regarding PRIDE Grand Prix 2003 tournaments for heavyweight and middleweights. There was extreme pressure on PRIDE to continue to make more money annually, since Dream Stage Entertainment became so successful. Read the whole story by clicking HERE! and HERE!

www.mmanews.com Reported: "Dream Stage Entertainment is rumored to be going through financial problems lately. It is known that lately Pride was trying to renegotiate contracts in order to cut some expenses. Nothing like this was ever expected." Read more by clicking HERE!

Rocklin, CA, USA - Event Date February 1st, 2003
Pre register for the February 1st, 2003 IKF Point Kickboxing© tournament at the Rocklin, Sunset Community Center in Rocklin, CA, USA for only $25! Pre registration must be post marked no later than January 15th, 2003. After January 15th the registration fee will be $35. Pre-register Now and Save $10!

Men, Women and Children will compete for beautiful 1st, 2nd and 3rd Place trophies in IKF Point Kickboxing© and IKF Point Muay Thai semi contact matches. Beginner and Advanced divisions. See this page for Registration and Rules.

For more info, contact Johnny Davis at Art of Kickboxing Promotions, (916) 780-7483 or by e-mail at johnnyd@netwiz.net

Footnote
IKF Point Kickboxing© was specifically designed for the beginner Kickboxer but will also assist the advanced Kickboxer to better their skills. Point Kickboxing© allows them the opportunity to concentrate on technique as opposed to focusing on not being knocked out. There are no knockouts allowed in IKF Point Kickboxing© and contact is strictly enforced. You can only win a bout on points. The true difference here is the style. For years, Point Karate tournaments have flourished all over the country but the techniques one uses in a Point Karate tournament (backfist, ridgehands etc.) are mostly ineffective in Kickboxing.

Point Kickboxers have to maintain the form and style of a Kickboxer or most certainly face defeat. Competitors who've done Point Karate tournaments and even Domination style fighting find Point Kickboxing© totally different. One big difference is the 16 oz. gloves and "real" boxing techniques. If your guard is not up and chin down, you are more likely to be out pointed in the one to two minute "continuos sparring" bout.

Point Kickboxing allows you to keep the fighting form of Kickboxing as opposed to switching back and forth from Karate. IKF Point Kickboxing© is not only the next step out of the gym for the eventual full contact fighter but is another outlet for the IKF to continue building the sport of Kickboxing's bright future.

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