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TOM GALLICCHIO VS. DANIEL MADRID OFFICIAL FOR M-1 CHALLENGE: GURAM VS GARNER 2
LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

Friday, October 14, 2011 From The Grand Canyon University Arena in Phoenix, Arizona
NEW YORK (September 27, 2011) – M-1 GLOBAL announces the addition of relentless striker Tom Gallicchio (16-6) versus submission protégé Daniel ‘Blackout’ Madrid (6-2) at the mixed martial arts (MMA) event titled M-1 Challenge: Guram vs. Garner 2. The bouts from the new 5,500 seat Grand Canyon University Arena in Phoenix, Arizona will air LIVE on SHOWTIME on Friday, October 14 at 11 p.m. ET/PT (Delayed on the West Coast).

The October 14th event is headlined with the five-round, heavyweight (265 Lbs.) championship bout between undefeated and reigning M-1 Global champion Guram Gugenishvili (11-0) and the 2010 M-1 Selection Americas Tournament heavyweight winner Kenny ‘Deuce’ Garner (7-3).

In co-main event action, M-1 Global Light Heavyweight (205 Lbs.) Champion and ADCC Submission Wrestling World Champion Vinny Magalhaes (8-5) will make his first title defense against versatile Russian fighter Mikhail Zayats (14-5).

“This is a phenomenal stylistic matchup between two extremely talented fighters,” said Evgeni Kogan, M-1 Global’s Director of operations. “Gallicchio’s fights have marked some of the most exciting battles we’ve seen; he always comes prepared and is clearly determined to earn a shot at the title. Madrid has been on our radar for some time and this is his breakout opportunity; as part of the televised card on our third SHOWTIME event, he has a tough test at hand.”

Gallicchio’s run through the 2010 M-1 Selection Americas Tournament was one of the toughest passes faced by any of the competitors; he culminated his quest with a high-light reel, rear-naked-choke (RNC) submission victory over Len Bentley. Coming off a follow up RNC victory over Christopher Curtis, Gallicchio is poised to make a run at reigning Welterweight (170 Lbs.) Champion Shamil Zavurov.

Phoenix, Arizona native Daniel Madrid makes his debut with Europe’s leading MMA promotion as the hometown favorite on a stacked televised card on premium cable network SHOWTIME. A versatile submission fighter with a near perfect finishing percentage, Madrid has run the gauntlet of local Arizona talent fighting as an amateur and is ready to compete against a higher level of competition.

Tickets are priced at $35, $40, $50, $75 and $150and can be purchased at www.GCUArena.com, charge by phone at 602-639-8999 or visit the GCU Arena Box Office located at 3300 W. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85017

For information on M-1 Global, go to the official M-1 website, www.M-1Global.com and M-1 Global facebook fan page.
Mauro Ranallo will call the action from ringside with Pat Miletich serving as analyst. The telecast will be produced by Chuck McKean and directed by Craig Farrell. The executive producer of SHOWTIME Sports is David Dinkins, Jr.

For information on SHOWTIME Sports programming, including exclusive behind-the-scenes video, photos and much more, please visit http://sports.sho.com

‘Deuce’ is Loose at M-1 Challenge XXVII

Kenny Garner: “This time there won’t be any mistakes!”

The relentless self-marketing machine, Kenny ‘Deuce’ Garner (7-3), returns to action inside the confines of M-1 Global’s five-rope ring on October 14th intent on making the most of a second shot at Europe’s leading MMA promotion’s heavyweight strap; the undefeated and reigning Champion Guram Gugenishvili (11-0) once again stands in Garner’s path to stardom. The battle from inside the new 5,500 seat Grand Canyon University Arena in Phoenix, Arizona can be caught LIVE on SHOWTIME starting at 11 p.m. ET/PT (Delayed on the West Coast).

Garner earned his second shot at the belt with a systematic destruction of decorated American wrestler Pat Bennett; the bout marked a repeat of the 2010 M-1 Selection Americas tournament finals with a near identical outcome as Garner knocked out Bennett just past the one minute mark of the bout’s second frame. With the cameras rolling on his celebration, Garner quickly called out Guram

Talk is cheap in the fight game unless you back it up and Garner has been doing just that with his one-punch power that’s padded his record with five knockout wins. Hidden behind the heavy leather is also a potent submission arsenal and solid wrestling base which makes his rematch with Guram a potentially explosive outing for both men. Even though being choked unconscious by Guram in their first outing, Garner feels extremely confident; “I know where I made my mistake against Guram last time. I’m not making any mistakes this time. I’m stronger, faster and more technical. Guram better polish my belt because I’m taking it from him.”

Fans either love or hate the Port St. Lucie, Florida and American Top Team fighter but the fact remains Garner is making a name for himself in the State of Florida, who has him ranked as the #9 heavyweight. He’s dispelling critics who once saw him and his ‘in your face’ personality as just flash in the pan and proving to be the real deal, surprising fans, media and executives at every turn ; his convincing wins – three having him marked as a huge underdog – are proving that Deuce is a force to reckon with in M-1’s heavyweight division.

Prior to starting the Selections tournament, Garner’s manager, UFC veteran, Din Thomas, didn’t hold back when discussing the two early losses in Garner’s career; “He took a couple bad fights on short notice and when you take a fight without preparation – as a heavyweight – you pay the price.” Garner’s losses came at the hands of Chris Barnett and Tony Johnson Jr.; both by way of TKO in the late rounds which may have been attributed to questionable conditioning according to Thomas. In comparison, “Deuce” has shown exceptional performances when prepared as all seven of his victories have been total dominations.

Garner opened the Heavyweight brackets of the Selections tournament with a dominating victory over Matt Hopkins; from here, Garner was next slated to fight the imposing Russian favourite, Andre Kapilou, in a semi-finals bout he fighter wasn’t even given a ‘fighter’s chance’ of winning.

In the co-main event of the Semi Finals card, Garner shocked the crowd with a three-round war that neutralized Kapilou’s extensive reach and stand-up abilities. In a total reversal of predictions in front of Kapilou’s home-town crowd, Garner slid past his opponent’s striking damage-free to secure effortless take downs where the Russian’s weakness on the canvass became exposed. Without having an answer to Garner’s G&P and submissions other than a relentless will to survive, Kapilou endured the most painful 15 minutes of his fighting career with his face taking the brunt of the assault. Garner proved to doubters that he is not the one-dimensional fighter he was thought to be as he worked through three rounds to secure the unanimous decision nod from the judges.

Even with the win, Garner still wasn’t given the credibility he deserved heading into the Finals where he had another seemingly insurmountable task ahead of him: stop Pat Bennett and his proud wrestling pedigree. Not only did Garner neutralize the wrestling skills of Bennett by stuffing every takedown, he confirmed to fans why he should be considered one of the most-feared strikers in M-1’s heavyweight division.

After a brief exchange in the clinch, Garner revealed a lead hook that couldn’t miss; Bennett had no answer to the game that was being forced upon him as blow after blow crumbled his confidence and left him stumbling and disoriented. In an effort to fight back, Bennett reached for the single leg, got stuffed and ate a combination that sent him rubber-legging across the canvass and into the ropes. Although refusing to fall, Bennett was clearly unable to intelligently defend himself leaving referee ‘Big Dan’ Miragliotta with no choice but to stop the bout at 2:31 of the very first round, giving Garner and his precision striking the TKO victory.

With this win, Kenny Garner rounded out the five M-1 Selection 2010 Americas champions and was the first US fighter to be given the opportunity to fight for the M-1 Challenge championship belt in the headline bout at M-1 Challenge XXI against Guram Gugenishvili this past October in St. Petersburg, Russia.

In an eventful first round, Garner came out of the corner looking to press the action and stuffing Guram’s early takedown attempts. After being re-started when the pair broke through the ropes, Guram worked through an array of submission attempts and a wicked neck crank. Fighting from his back, Garner absorbed a left from up high which opened a gash dangerously close to his right eye, causing the referee to stall for a quick inspection by the ringside physician who gave the bout the green-light to continue. From here out, Garner worked bottom and top positions as he controlled the rest of the frame with the judges’ scorecards giving him a 10-9 round.

The tide only took 54 seconds to change as Guram dodged a looping right hand to start the second and caught the American in a head-and-arm choke; the pair then shuffled into the red corner where Guram locked in the standing guillotine and choked Garner unconscious forcing the referee to halt the bout.

Garner’s since locked that haunting memory deep within his subconscious and has come back more dangerous than ever before. Riding back-to-back wins that have resurrected momentum, he’s eager to culminate another Cinderella run by usurping the M-1 Global heavyweight championship belt. To Garner this second shot at gold is a dream come true; “I really want to thank M-1 GLOBAL,” said Garner. “I’ve been training hard and I’m not losing to Guram. I got to do better than what I’ve done before. This is MY opportunity to chase down MY belt!”

Expect a war on October 14th.

Tickets are priced at $35, $40, $50, $75 and $150 and can be purchased at www.GCUArena.com, charge by phone at 602-639-8999 or visit the GCU Arena Box Office located at 3300 W. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85017

Mauro Ranallo will call the action from ringside with Pat Miletich serving as analyst. The telecast will be produced by Chuck McKean and directed by Craig Farrell. The executive producer of SHOWTIME Sports is David Dinkins, Jr.

With M-1 Challenge champions established in all five weight classes, a true contenders system will fuel events throughout 2011, driving M-1 Global’s growth as a leading brand in the US and international markets.

2011’s full slate of M-1 Challenge events held in the United States and Europe are primed to be mega-event spectaculars where Champions defend their titles and contenders jockey for position for a coveted shot at the gold. Feeding the contention system will be two Selection tournaments in 2011 with details being announced shortly.

For information on M-1 Global, go to the official M-1 website, www.M-1Global.com and M-1 Global facebook fan page.

For information on SHOWTIME Sports programming, including exclusive behind-the-scenes video, photos and much more, please visit http://sports.sho.com

Fedor vs. Monson Set to Meet This Fall

Sunday, November 20, 2011
From The Olympic Arena in Moscow, Russia
NEW YORK (September 16, 2011) – Mixed martial arts (MMA) heavyweight legends Fedor ‘The Last Emperor’ Emelianenko (31-4, 1 NC) and Jeff ‘The Snowman’ Monson (42-12) will meet as the headline bout at M-1 Global: Fedor vs. Monson. The event will take place Sunday November 20th from the Olympic Arena in Moscow, Russia with details on broadcast availability announced soon.

“Fedor has been very vocal about wanting to continue his fighting career,” said Evgeni Kogan, Director of Operations for Europe’s leading MMA promotion M-1 GLOBAL. “Fedor vs. Monson is a classic fight that had been in crosshairs for year. All parties have come together to make this fight a reality.”

Regarded as one of MMA’s greatest heavyweight fighters of all time, Emelianenko has been challenged as late, losing his last three bouts after going undefeated for nearly a decade. The losses came at the hands of Fabricio Werdum, Antonio Silva and Dan Henderson. Hungry to compete, ‘The Last Emperor’ still has the drive to battle top competitors. “I cannot wait to compete again. Monson is a great athlete who is skilled in many areas. He is a very worthy opponent,” said Fedor.

Coming of a loss to Daniel Cormier, the 40-year-old Monson is a two-time Abu Dhabi Combat Club Submission Wrestling World Championships gold medalist and considered extremely dangerous on the ground with more than half of his 42 career wins coming by way of submission.

Even though Emelianenko is coming off three straight losses, Monson holds Fedor in high regard; “Fedor is the best heavyweight of all time… It’s an honor to be fighting him.” Asked about what a win would mean, Monson didn’t mince words; “A win would be a highlight to my career. My trainers at American Top Team will prepare me for all possibilities. I’ll be prepared.”

As the hype builds towards the legendary matchup between Fedor and Monson, M-1 Global is already well underway preparations for its October 14th event in Phoenix, Arizona, M-1 Challenge: Guram vs. Garner 2.

The event from the new 5,500 seat Grand Canyon University Arena marks the promotion’s third outing on premium US network SHOWTIME and is headlined with two title fights; Reigning Heavyweight (265 Lbs.) Champion Guram Gugenishvili (11-0) will face relentless power-puncher Kenny ‘Deuce’ Garner (7-3) while BBJ Ace Vinny Magalhaes (8-5) makes his inaugural light heavyweight (205 Lbs.) defense against Mikhail Zayats (14-5).

M-1 GLOBAL ANNOUNCES M-1 CHALLENGE EVENT
TO AIR LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

Friday, October 14, 2011
From The Grand Canyon University Arena in Phoenix, Arizona
NEW YORK (September 15, 2011) – M-1 GLOBAL announced today an upcoming mixed martial arts (MMA) event titled M-1 Challenge: Guram vs. Garner II featuring the rematch between current M-1 Global Heavyweight (265 Lbs.) Champion Guram Gugenishvili (11-0) and 2010 M-1 Selection Americas Tournament heavyweight winner Kenny ‘Deuce’ Garner (7-3). The bouts from the new 5,550 seat Grand Canyon University Arena in Phoenix, Arizona will air LIVE on SHOWTIME on Friday, October 14 at 11 p.m. ET/PT (Delayed on the West Coast).

In co-main event action, Light Heavyweight (205 Lbs.) Champion and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu specialist Vinny Magalhaes (8-5) will make his first title defense against versatile Russian fighter Mikhail Zayats (14-5).

Tickets are priced at $35, $45, $75 and $100 and can be purchased at www.GCUArena.com, charge by phone at 602-639-8999 or visit the GCU Arena Box Office located at 3300 W. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85017

“Our Champions are hungry to defend their titles and this is shaping up to be our strongest, most exciting card of the year.” said Vadim Finkelschtein, co-founder of M-1 GLOBAL. “This marks our third event with SHOWTIME; there’s no better TV network for M-1 than SHOWTIME and no better market to seriously compete in than the U.S.”

“Garner has been extremely vocal about wanting a rematch with Guram and he’s put the work in to get this opportunity,” said Evgeni Kogan, M-1 Global’s Director of operations. “This is a great title fight between two fierce opponents.”

Ranked as the sport’s #1 Heavyweight prospect by Bloody Elbow, Gugenishvili has left a long list of opponents in his wake of destruction since coming on the scene in July, 2009. The winner of the inaugural 2010 M-1 Selection Eastern European tournament and Europe’s leading MMA promotion’s reigning heavyweight champion, Guram’s most notable characteristic is his agility; at 6’4” and 250lbs, he moves around the ring lightly, maintaining precise offensive ring positioning.

Gugenishvili was sidelined from his July title defense after suffering a wrist injury during a training session; now recovered and ready for action, Guram is more than accepting of Garner’s challenge, “Garner knows where to find me if he wants my belt; I will defend it.”

Kenny ‘Deuce’ Garner’s first run-in with Guram was in October 2010 and it ended unpleasantly, being choked unconscious via standing guillotine in the second round. Since then Garner has won back-to-back bouts via knockout.

Garner is best known for his relentless self-marketing which he backs up with one-punch power as evidenced by his five knockout wins. Hidden behind the heavy leather is also a potent submission arsenal and solid wrestling base which makes this rematch a potentially explosive outing for both men.

“I always said I’d get another chance to claim MY belt!” said Garner. “I made a mistake in my last fight with Guram and I know it. It cost me my title. This time out – no mistakes! This is my opportunity to chase down my belt! I’ve been training hard and I’m not losing to Guram; he’s not making it out of the first round.”

For information on M-1 Global, go to the official M-1 website, www.M-1Global.com and M-1 Global facebook fan page.
Mauro Ranallo will call the action from ringside with Pat Miletich serving as analyst. The telecast will be produced by Chuck McKean and directed by Craig Farrell. The executive producer of SHOWTIME Sports is David Dinkins, Jr.

For information on SHOWTIME Sports programming, including exclusive behind-the-scenes video, photos and much more, please visit http://sports.sho.com

Can US Army Captain ‘G.I’ Jason Norwood Stop Eddie ‘Crazy Face’ Arizmendi’s War Cry?

At M-1 Challenge: Bennett vs. Garner the battles for prime middleweight contention positioning are brewing but amongst the 185-pound duels, the fight between US Army Captain ‘G.I’ Jason Norwood and Eddie ‘Crazy Face’ Arizmendi is shaping up to be a show stealer. The action from The Hangar in Costa Mesa, California, Friday, July 8 can be captured LIVE on SHOWTIME starting at 11 p.m. ET (delayed on the West Coast).

Arizmendi has been the heart and soul of Arizona fans as he built up his 14-4 record; crowds watched him grow and mature as a fighter within the local ranks and the young Native American of Mexican heritage is making the jump to a new calibre of competition after being snatched up by Europe’s leading mixed martial arts promotion. Training out of Apex Gym with trainer Joey Rivera and under the management and guidance of Sky Andren of Fight Legion Inc., Arizmendi is the former RITC champion and rides a momentous eight-fight streak into Costa ‘Mesa, California; for the first time in his so-far illustrious career the ‘big fish in the little pond’ finds himself in new waters, taking his amped-up fighting style head-on into Norwood.

Standing a solid 6’ 3”, ‘Crazy Face’ fights with rage; his game is decorated with a versatile submission arsenal and he packs potent striking backed up with knock-out power. He’s also a finisher; of his 14 wins, he’s seen the judges’ scorecards only twice – that’s a finishing average of nearly 86%, a stat intoxicating to the M-1 executive brass and a perfect fit with M-1’s reputation for producing action-packed events.

Arizmendi’s ability to finish won’t scare Norwood; the Army combatives training officer has seen greater threats and disposed of them with relative ease. A native of Voorhees, New Jersey, 27 year old Jason Norwood equates fighting as the culmination of his life and says the military brings a similar feel to MMA, the main difference being that in the Army you either come home standing or “in a bag”. He’s spent time training at American Top Team Oklahoma and Matt Hughes’ H.I.T. squad but the Fort Still Combative Center is where he calls home and steadily improves his skills while perfecting a trademark ‘RNC’.

Boasting an 11-2 record, Norwood’ last outing was a systematic, three-round destruction of Billy ‘Mojo’ Horne this past March on M-1’s SHOWTIME debut. Over 15 minutes, the Captain exemplified what the US Army represents: a grinding, relentless pursuit of victory.

The key difference between the two men is their styles: Norwood is a tactical grinder where Arizmendi goes in ‘blitzkrieg’, looking to end things quickly.

Both are extremely skilled. Arizmendi is versatile, transitioning from boxing to wrestling to BJJ with slick, fluid movements and throwing precision combinations from all angles. Norwood leverages his wrestling base to secure take downs in order to wear out and pound out his opponents; his submission arsenal can compete with any fighter but he’s never needed to fight off his back, a real possible position for him this time out.
Expect neither man to change their styles; Arizmendi will aim to push the pace while Norwood tries to slow it down. Both have the tools to win and it’s a coin flip as to who walks away victorious. This is a great battle between two highly experienced warriors.

M-1 Challenge: Bennett vs. Garner airs LIVE on SHOWTIME on Friday, July 8 at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast) and is headlined by the rematch between the 2010 M-1 Selection Americas Tournament heavyweight finalists Pat Bennett (4-2) and Kenny ‘Deuce’ Garner (6-3).

Tickets are priced at $75 for the front row and all other seats at $50 and can be purchased online at www.fightcluboc.com, or by calling Roy Englebrecht Promotions at (949) 760-3131.

Mauro Ranallo will call the action from ringside with Pat Miletich serving as analyst. The telecast will be produced by Chuck McKean and directed by Craig Farrell. The executive producer of SHOWTIME Sports is David Dinkins, Jr.

With M-1 Challenge champions established in all five weight classes, a true contenders system will fuel events throughout 2011, driving M-1 Global’s growth as a leading brand in the US and international markets.

2011’s full slate of M-1 Challenge events held in the United States and Europe are primed to be mega-event spectaculars where Champions defend their titles and contenders jockey for position for a coveted shot at the gold. Feeding the contention system will be two Selection tournaments in 2011 with details being announced shortly.

For information on M-1 Global, go to the official M-1 website, www.M-1Global.com and M-1 Global facebook fan page.

For information on SHOWTIME Sports programming, including exclusive behind-the-scenes video and photo galleries, complete telecast information and more, please go to the new SHOWTIME Sports website at http://www.sho.com/sports.

Taisumov vs. Bacallao: Potential Fight of the Night at M-1 Challenge: Bennett vs. Garner

There’s a lot to say about experience in mixed martial arts; even more can be said when you combine experience with precise, tactical striking and a versatile ground game. When Mairbek ‘Beckan’ Taisumov and Josh ‘Iron Heart’ Bacallao hook ‘em up at M-1 Challenge: Bennett vs. Garner on Friday, July 8th, all hell could bust loose in the ring. But before the action goes down from The Hangar in Costa Mesa, California, LIVE on SHOWTIME on Friday, July 8 at 11 p.m. ET/PT (Delayed on the West Coast), M-1 breaks down the battle.

Thanks to his aggressive fighting style, Mairbek ‘Beckan’ Taisumov is seemingly incapable of producing anything other than action-packed fights; without a doubt he’s one of the most entertaining fighters Europe has to offer and one of the many reasons why M-1’s 155-pound division is deep with talent.

Scrappy Florida native Josh “Iron Heart” Bacallao is often over-looked but his record is equally as decorated with submission, TKO and decision victories; his strategy is simple: put up technically sound performances and fight with heart.

At 23 years of age, Taisumov is highly talented. He improves with every outing and his hand speed, precision and versatility is more than impressive. A promising young striker, he’s racked up an impressive 14-3 record thanks to his highly aggressive offensive positioning, tactical stand-up and relentless ground and pound.

Also 23 years old, Bacallao’s 6-2 record is built upon tenacious, dedicated training. His core fundamental skills stem from his high school wrestling career, his stand up is solid and he has good jiu-jitsu. Although still early in his career, Bacallao’s proven to be a strong, explosive fighter with dangerous hands. His skills and heart are what have earned him the trip to M-1 Global’s sophomore card on SHOWTIME and he has a tough fight ahead of him. A win would completely elevate his status in the lightweight division.

Taisumov won the 2010 M-1 Selection Western Europe lightweight tournament while putting on a striking and submission clinic, winning back-to-back-to-back first round finishes and quickly become a recognized name throughout the European MMA circuit.

Bacallao’s run through the 2010 M-1 Selection Americas tournament was nowhere near as glamorous in comparison; a controversial fight with Josh Key ended in a no-contest, advancing him to the semi-finals where he lost a tough spilt-decision to George Sheppard.

Based on what both fighters have shown in their respective outings, Taisumov throws faster combinations but his power is somewhat suspect after being unable to pound out Artiom Damkovsky during their lightweight title fight last October; his saving grace is his lethal, one-punch KO power which he unleashed in his recent bout against Yuri Ivlev. The advantage in striking goes to Taisumov.

As a physically bigger lightweight, Bacallao has an opportunity to counter Taisumov’s combinations and deliver heavier punishment to his body; if he can wear down Taisumov to the point where he’s more focussed on protecting his ribs and dropping his hands, Bacallao has the power to deliver a knockout blow. The challenge with this plan is that he needs to be weary of Taisumov’s power early on so as to not get knocked out himself.

From the canvas both men are equally versatile with strong wrestling and takedown skills; Taisumov has the edge from top position but Bacallao is more than capable of fighting off his back while looking for a submission thanks to his jiu-jitsu. It’s a coin flip if this fight goes to the mat.

The X-factor in their bout will be activity. Taisumov has remained extremely active, fighting six times through 2010 and five times through 2009. Bacallao was comparably active last year but his outing on July 8th marks nearly a year-long hiatus so if he sports any ring-rust, he’s got to shake it off quickly.

Taisumov should have to make little adjustment to his style when he enters the ring to face Bacallao; he’s more aggressive, faster and equally as versatile but he has to be aware of Bacallao’s power. If Taisumov delivers an A-game performance, it’s likely he’ll walk away with the win and climb closer to a shot at the belt. But don’t count out Bacallao; he’s got a ‘never-quit’ attitude and is a grinder. As both men aim to impose their will upon the other, Taisumov and Bacallao could deliver the card’s Fight of the Night.

M-1 Challenge: Bennett vs. Garner on Friday July 8th is headlined by the rematch between the 2010 M-1 Selection Americas Tournament heavyweight finalists Pat Bennett (4-2) and Kenny ‘Deuce’ Garner (6-3).

Tickets are priced at $75 for the front row and all other seats at $50 and can be purchased online at www.fightcluboc.com, or by calling Roy Englebrecht Promotions at (949) 760-3131.

Mauro Ranallo will call the action from ringside with Pat Miletich serving as analyst. The telecast will be produced by Chuck McKean and directed by Craig Farrell. The executive producer of SHOWTIME Sports is David Dinkins, Jr.

With M-1 Challenge champions established in all five weight classes, a true contenders system will fuel events throughout 2011, driving M-1 Global’s growth as a leading brand in the US and international markets.

2011’s full slate of M-1 Challenge events held in the United States and Europe are primed to be mega-event spectaculars where Champions defend their titles and contenders jockey for position for a coveted shot at the gold. Feeding the contention system will be two Selection tournaments in 2011 with details being announced shortly.

For information on M-1 Global, go to the official M-1 website, www.M-1Global.com and M-1 Global facebook fan page.

For information on SHOWTIME Sports programming, including exclusive behind-the-scenes video and photo galleries, complete telecast information and more, please go to the new SHOWTIME Sports website at http://www.sho.com/sports.

Breaking Down the Guseinov vs. Jeffries SHOWTIME® Battle

If styles make fights then mark down the middleweight battle between fierce Russian striker Arthur Guseinov and 2010 M-1Selections Americas tournament winner Tyson ‘The Anti-Hero’ Jeffries as one you don’t want to miss on M-1 Global’s sophomore outing on SHOWTIME®; capture the full M-1 Challenge: Bennett vs. Garner card from The Hangar LIVE Friday, July 8 at 11 p.m. ET/PT (Delayed on the West Coast).

Jeffries’s last outing was one he would like to soon forget, enduring a round-and-a-half of pure punishment from newly crowned Middleweight Champion Magomed ‘The White Wolf’ Sultanakhmedov as his title dreams quickly turned into a nightmare. The Oregon native and Team Quest fighter has done all he can to prepare himself this time out, calling in some favours to train with Rampage in Las Vegas and at the Wolfslair MMA Academy in England; under the tutelage of some of the sport’s greats, Jeffries is be ready to draw first blood on his opponent.

Standing in the opposing corner come fight night and eager to make his North American debut is Action-Force Fight Team’s feared Russian striker Arthur Guseinov, who’s known for his tight clinch work, deadly spinning back-kicks and head-hunting high kicks. Making a worldwide trek, Guseinov will be ready to go head-to-head with Jeffries.

Guseinov’s 14-2 combined amateur and professional record is littered with KO / TKO victories thanks to a lightning-quick striking arsenal but the crafty Russian is coming to California riding a two-fight skid after losses to submission specialist Beslan Esaev and American scrapper Luigi Fioravanti. But don’t expect this to affect his aggressive, explosive fighting style; Jeffries should anticipate facing a high powered offensive right from the sound of the first bell.

In contrast to Guseinov, Jeffries holds a 7-5 record and most of his battles have been epic marathons; he’s no stranger to being the main character in Fight of the Night award-winning wars. Jeffries is a fighter with a relentless, never-say-die fighting style who simply doesn’t quit; he would rather have his arm broken than to ever admit an opponent has broken his will. It’s unlikely to see Guseinov lock on a submission but the Matt Lindland protégé needs to stay true to his steadfast defense to ensure he keeps his head on his shoulders – literally.

2010 was an exceptional year for Jeffries, winning the M-1 Selections Americas tournament middleweight brackets with a solid combination of submission skills and striking abilities as he dismantled Mike Johnson, Plinio Cruz and Mike Geurin; it was in his Finals bout where he truly matured as a fighter. The middleweight finals battle with Team Bombsquad’s Mike Geurin took the card’s Fight of the Night honour, Submission of the Night award, is regarded as the highlight bout of the tournament and was also cemented as M-1 Global’s #3 fight of 2010.

Since making his professional debut in October 2005, all of Guseinov’s victories have ended in the first round except for one; the lone decision victory came against Magomed Sultanakhmedov in the opening round of the 2009 M-1 Selection European tournament. Holding this coveted win, the ‘what-if’ implications of a Guseinov victory on July 8th can be hashed out but it’s easy to predict the matchmaker’s plan of sliding Guseinov into a future title bout.

Guseinov returned to the ring of Europe’s leading mixed martial arts promotion in 2010 after being summoned to step in on short notice to face Fioravanti; the talented striker with a formidable karate background gave his all in a dramatic back and forth affair that captured the cards Fight of the Night top-honour, losing via RNC submission in the overtime round.

Considered a small 185’er by North American standards, Guseinov will have to rely on his striking arsenal and open the bout with a blitzkrieg attack to overwhelm Jeffries; the punishment needs to come fast and unrelenting as ‘The Anti-Hero’ has proven to possess an iron chin and an unbreakable will.

Jeffries’ keys to victory are to rely on his veteran’s patience and effectively counter off of Guseinov’s combinations and look to unleash his takedown threat; if he can get the fight to the ground, he can leverage his size advantage and wear Guseinov out and lock in one of his repertoire’s submissions.

This is a big fight for both fighters. For Guseinov, a win sets the story for a future title fight against Sultanakhmedov while a loss would mark his third straight defeat. For Jeffries, a wins shakes off his last loss and starts him on the path for another future title shot; a loss marks him as a +500 journeyman fighter to be used as a stepping stone for other rising prospects.

Whoever wins, it’s going to be one entertaining fight!

M-1 Challenge: Bennett vs. Garner airs LIVE on SHOWTIME on Friday, July 8 at 11 p.m. ET/PT (Delayed on the West Coast).

Known for his tight clinch work, deadly spinning back-kicks and head-hunting high kicks, Action-Force Fight Team’s feared Russian striker, Arthur Guseinov is ready to make his North American debut and go head-to-head against the 2010 M-1 Selection middleweight tournament winner, Tyson ‘The Anti-Hero’ Jeffries at M-1 Challenge: Bennett vs. Garner. Fans can capture the action from The Hangar in Costa Mesa, California LIVE on SHOWTIME on Friday, July 8 at 11 p.m. ET/PT (Delayed on the West Coast).
Guseinov’s lightning-quick striking arsenal is responsible for the majority of his KO / TKO victories, anchoring his hard-earned 7-2 professional record (dig a little deeper into his background and one will find a long list of amateur wins adding to a combined record of 14-2). Although coming off back-to-back losses against Russian submission specialist, Beslan Esaev and staunch American scrapper, Luigi Fioravanti, expect his exciting fighting style to be well received by the North American audience as he brings a high powered offensive directly into Jeffries’ path.

Guseinov returned to the ring of Europe’s leading mixed martial arts promotion in 2010 after being summoned to step in on short notice to face Fioravanti after Shahrijar Abassov was forced to withdraw after suffering a late training injury. Even with injuries a part of the daily grind in the sport, being called upon as a replacement fighter in the time of need is what differentiates one’s fighting spirit; the talented striker with a formidable karate background gave his all in a dramatic back and forth affair that captured the cards Fight of the Night top-honour, losing via RNC submission in the overtime round.

Since making his professional debut in October 2005, the crafty technician has ended all his bouts in the first round except for one; the lone decision victory came against newly crowned Middleweight Champion, Magomed “The White Wolf” Sultanakhmedov in the opening round of the 2009 M-1 Selection European tournament.

Considered a small 185’er by North American standards, Guseinov will have to rely on his striking arsenal and open the bout with a blitzkrieg attack to overwhelm Jeffries; the punishment needs to come fast and unrelenting as The Anti-Hero has proven to possess an iron chin and an unbreakable will.

Holding a coveted win over Sultanakhmedov, the ‘what-if’ implications of a Guseinov win can be hashed out from every angle but ultimately Guseinov is only concerned with standing victorious on July 8th; but in this case, it’s easy to predict the matchmaker’s plan of sliding Guseinov into a future title bout.

M-1 Challenge: Bennett vs. Garner airs LIVE on SHOWTIME on Friday, July 8 at 11 p.m. ET/PT (Delayed on the West Coast).

After enduring a round-and-a-half of pure punishment from newly crowned Middleweight Champion Magomed Sultanakhmedov, Oregon native and Team Quest fighter Tyson ‘The Anti-Hero’ Jeffries has done all he can to prepare himself this time out. When the bell rings to start the action from The Hangar in Costa Mesa, California, Jeffries will look to draw first blood against feared Russian striker Arthur Guseinov. Fans can capture the M-1 Challenge: Bennett vs. Garner card LIVE on SHOWTIME on Friday, July 8 at 11 p.m. ET/PT (Delayed on the West Coast).

Coming from a team known for producing impeccable fighters with sound wrestling foundations, Coach Matt Lindland has placed high expectations on his protégé to execute hard-fought, exciting tilts. As a Sport Fight veteran, Jeffries has built a 7-5 record and possesses the qualities and skills necessary to be a successful professional fighter; being exposed to the Team Quest mentality is certainly aiding his development, “I train with the some of the best fighters in the world … I owe lots of appreciation to my coaches and friends,” says Jeffries.
Known for his relentless, never-say-die fighting style, Jeffries is a fighter that simply doesn’t quit; he would rather have his arm broken than to ever admit an opponent has broken his will. Although putting forth a valiant effort against Sultanakhmedov, the sturdy American scrapper is covering all bases to ensure he stands with his arm raised on July 8th, calling in some favours to train with Rampage in Las Vegas and at the Wolfslair MMA Academy in England.

2010 was an exceptional year for Jeffries, winning the M-1 Selections Americas tournament middleweight brackets with a solid combination of submission skills and striking abilities. Facing Mike Johnson in his opening round bout, Jeffries systematically dismantled Johnson’s striking with a steadfast defence and effective counter-punching.

Facing the wild striking of Plinio Cruz in his semi-finals bout, Jeffries maintained an impenetrable defence as he stalked and cut off Cruz’s position inside the ring. Although standing within Cruz’s striking range on occasion which allowed Cruz to score much needed points, Jeffries was able to withstand the barrages and go on to win a razor-thin split decision and berth in the Finals.

Watching Jeffries from the beginning of the tournament, it is easy to conclude that his Finals bout was where he matured as a fighter. The middleweight finals battle with Team Bombsquad’s Mike Geurin took the night’s ‘fight of the night’ honours, is regarded as the highlight bout of the tournament and is also cemented as M-1 Global’s #3 fight of 2010. When Jeffries’ miraculous triangle is tied into the equation, it’s no wonder why this fight also captured the night’s ‘submission of the night’ award as well. Jeffries vs. Geurin exemplified the exciting MMA action that the M-1 Selection tournament was designed to produce.

Jeffries is a patient fighter capable of sitting back and effectively countering while always maintaining an offensive ring position to compliment his takedown threat; he also exhibits a veteran’s composure when timing his opponent’s offensives allowing him to set up his magnificent overhand right. Adding to his versatility, Jeffries is comfortable fighting off his back and has a repertoire of submissions as evident by the elbow-snapping armbar which he transitioned into the bout-ending triangle, a truly miraculous, 11th hour, highlight reel finish.

In the fight game, you’re only as good as your last trip to the mat and Jeffries needs a win to rebound off the one-sided beating issued by Sultanakhmedov, marking this fight as a turning point for Jeffries’ career; kicking off a string of wins will reposition him in the queue for another future title shot while a loss marks him as a +500 journeyman fighter to be used as a stepping stone for other rising prospects.

M-1 Challenge: Bennett vs. Garner airs LIVE on SHOWTIME on Friday, July 8 at 11 p.m. ET/PT (Delayed on the West Coast).

Pat Bennett: “I’m still training as if this were a five round fight!”

With unfortunate circumstances come new opportunity; decorated American wrestler Pat Bennett is intent on making the most of his rematch against 2010 M-1 Selection Americas heavyweight tournament winner, Kenny ‘Deuce’ Garner, a bout where Bennett can avenge the most horrific loss of his career. As the headliner at M-1 Challenge: Bennett vs. Garner, the action goes down from The Hangar in Costa Mesa, California, LIVE on SHOWTIME on Friday, July 8 at 11 p.m. ET/PT (Delayed on the West Coast).

Bennett was originally slated to face the reigning M-1 Heavyweight Champion, Guram Gugenishvili, but the undefeated Georgian powerhouse suffered a training injury that will keep him sidelined until the fall. As Garner stepped into to fill the void, Bennett expressed his excitement for the new opponent; “Sure this isn’t for the title but I’m looking at the bright side – I get to get one of my losses back. I’ve wanted to fight Kenny ever since he beat me in the tournament finals. I really didn’t get a chance to impose my will on him in that fight and he took advantage of that opportunity, but I can GUARANTEE that the same result will not happen again this time out.”

Fighting out of Marcellus, NY, this Team Bombsquad fighter needs to deliver a career performance to keep his championship dream alive; he already knows firsthand that Garner will capitalize on any mistakes and send him back to the end of the queue of a long list of heavyweight contenders should he come out flat.

Bennett sports an established 7-2 combined amateur and professional mixed martial arts record heavily weighted in the ‘win’ column with five first-round TKO’s. Although known for his proud wrestling pedigree, Bennett has proven to be a multidimensional fighter able to transition his skills to whatever is set in front of him.

As a key member of the Team Bombsquad contingent, Bennett’s manager, Ryan Ciotoli, has nothing but praise for the heavyweight’s performances to date. “Pat’s a three time All-American wrestler, so he possesses a great base and he’s an electrifying striker; hence the reason for his five first round wins. I definitely consider Bennett to be the top contender in the heavyweight division.”

Bennett had recently set his wrestling on the back burner in favour of striking throughout his 2010 M-1 Selection Americas tournament run, displaying a wide array of talents. Opening up the brackets against Nick Smiley, the mild-mannered monster needed a total of 37 seconds to destroy Smiley by TKO and leave him in the ring busted and bloodied. His semi-final bout was a marathon war with Mehdi Hassan where he earned a unanimous decision victory. The run was halted in the finals however as Bennett fell victim to Garner’s lead left hook; unable to answer Garner’s striking, Bennett notched the second loss of his career via TKO at the midway point of the opening frame.

Bennett’s first trip to M-1’s larger, international stage was in December at M-1 Challenge XXII where he faced Alexander Volkov; the staunch American went back to his decorated base with a game plan to exploit the stylistic mismatch; defend the striking, set-up takedowns and demolish Volkov on the ground. Bennett did exactly this for four full rounds with precision execution. Although the initial decision was shrouded in controversy, an independent panel of judges rightfully scored the bout in Bennett’s favour.

At 6’ 3”, 240 pounds, Bennett has heavy hands that deliver unforgiving power; if he connects with his overhand right, there is a real possibility to see Garner fall this time out. But Bennett will have to successfully defend takedown attempts and push the pace as he sees fit while being cautiously aware of Garner’s heavy striking arsenal and submission game.

With neither fighter having the home-town crowd advantage on July 8th, Bennett controls his own destiny in the biggest fight of his career, intent to avenge his most horrific loss and head towards a well-earned title shot later this year. “First and foremost it is always a pleasure to fight under the M-1 banner and I can’t wait for this fight. This opportunity means the world to me and my family on so many levels and I take my career very seriously.”

Tickets are priced at $75 for the front row and all other seats at $50 and can be purchased online at www.fightcluboc.com, or by calling Roy Englebrecht Promotions at (949) 760-3131.

Mauro Ranallo will call the action from ringside with Pat Miletich serving as analyst. The telecast will be produced by Chuck McKean and directed by Craig Farrell. The executive producer of SHOWTIME Sports is David Dinkins, Jr.

With M-1 Challenge champions established in all five weight classes, a true contenders system will fuel events throughout 2011, driving M-1 Global’s growth as a leading brand in the US and international markets.

2011’s full slate of M-1 Challenge events held in the United States and Europe are primed to be mega-event spectaculars where Champions defend their titles and contenders jockey for position for a coveted shot at the gold. Feeding the contention system will be two Selection tournaments in 2011 with details being announced shortly.

For information on M-1 Global, go to the official M-1 website, www.M-1Global.com and M-1 Global facebook fan page.

For information on SHOWTIME Sports programming, including exclusive behind-the-scenes video and photo galleries, complete telecast information and more, please go to the new SHOWTIME Sports website at http://www.sho.com/sports.

Deuce is Loose at M-1 Challenge XXVI

Kenny Garner: “I will end this fight faster than the last time I beat him, trust me.”

The relentless self-marketing machine, Kenny ‘Deuce’ Garner (6-3), returns to action inside the confines of M-1 Global’s five-rope ring, stepping in to replace the injured M-1 Global Heavyweight Champion, Guram Gugenishvili. Garner faces decorated wrestler, Pat Bennett (4-2) at The Hangar in Costa Mesa, California on Friday, July 8 and the action can be caught LIVE on SHOWTIME starting at 11 p.m. ET/PT (Delayed on the West Coast).

Garner last faced Bennett in the 2010 M-1 Selection Americas tournament finals, where he won a convincing first-round TKO and feels he’ll produce the same results this time out, ‘I will end this fight faster than the last time I beat him, trust me. There is no chance on God’s green earth that Pat will stop my striking. NOBODY makes it out of the first round with Deuce – PERIOD! NOBODY!

Talk is cheap in the fight game – unless you back it up. Garner has been doing just that with his one-punch power which is why his record boasts four knockout wins. Hidden behind the heavy leather is also a potent submission arsenal and solid wrestling base which makes this rematch a potentially explosive outing for both men but Garner feels extremely confident; “Pat and I are similar but I’m stronger, faster and more technical. Pat’s got no chance.”

Love to hate him or hate to love him, the Port St. Lucie, Florida and American Top Team fighter is making a name for himself in the State of Florida, who has him ranked as the #9 heavyweight. With an affliction for the camera, Garner is surprising fans, media and executives at every turn and his ‘in your face’ personality has critics split between whether he’s the ‘real deal’ or just flash in the pan; but his convincing wins – with two having him marked as a huge underdog – the Deuce is proving to be a force to reckon with.

Prior to starting the Selections tournament, Garner’s manager, UFC veteran, Din Thomas, didn’t hold back when discussing his two early losses; “He took a couple bad fights on short notice and when you take a fight without preparation – as a heavyweight – you pay the price.” Garner’s losses came at the hands of Chris Barnett and Tony Johnson Jr; both by way of TKO in the late rounds which may have been attributed to questionable conditioning according to Thomas. In comparison, “Deuce” has shown exceptional performances when prepared as all six of victories have been total dominations.

Garner opened the Heavyweight brackets of the Selections tournament with a dominating victory over Matt Hopkins; from here, Garner was next slated to fight the imposing Russian favourite, Andre Kapilou, in a semi finals bout he fighter wasn’t even given a ‘fighter’s chance’ of winning.

In the co-main event of the Semi Finals card, Garner shocked the crowd with a three-round war that neutralized Kapilou’s extensive reach and stand-up abilities. In a total reversal of predictions in front of Kapilou’s home-town crowd, Garner slid past his opponent’s striking damage-free to secure effortless take downs where the Russian’s weakness on the canvass became exposed. Without having an answer to Garner’s G&P and submissions other than a relentless will to survive, Kapilou endured the most painful 15 minutes of his fighting career with his face taking the brunt of the assault. Garner proved to doubters that he is not the one-dimensional fighter he was thought to be as he worked through three rounds to secure the unanimous decision nod from the judges.

Even with the win, Garner still wasn’t given the credibility he deserved heading into the Finals where he had another seemingly insurmountable task ahead of him: stop Pat Bennett and his proud wrestling pedigree. Not only did Garner neutralize the wrestling skills of Bennett by stuffing every takedown, he confirmed to fans why he should be considered one of the most-feared strikers in M-1’s heavyweight division.

After a brief exchange in the clinch, Garner revealed a lead hook that couldn’t miss; he caught Bennett, then caught him again and caught him again. Bennett had no answer to the game that was being forced upon him as blow after blow crumbled his confidence and left him stumbling and disoriented. In an effort to fight back, Bennett reached for the single leg, got stuffed and ate a combination that sent him rubber-legging across the canvass and into the ropes. Although refusing to fall – possibly because Deuce was holding him up so he could feed a second and third helping of heavy leather to Bennett’s face – Bennett was clearly unable to intelligently defend himself leaving referee ‘Big Dan’ Miragliotta with no choice but to stop the bout at 2:31 of the very first round, giving Garner and his precision striking the TKO victory.

With this win, Kenny Garner rounded out the five M-1 Selection 2010 Americas champions and was the first US fighter to be given the opportunity to fight for the M-1 Challenge championship belt in the headline bout at M-1 Challenge XXI against Guram Gugenishvili this past October in St. Petersburg, Russia.

In an eventful first round, Garner came out of the corner looking to press the action and stuffing Guram’s early takedown attempts. After being re-started when the pair broke through the ropes, Guram worked through an array of submission attempts and a wicked neck crank. Fighting from his back, Garner absorbed a left from up high which opened a gash dangerously close to his right eye, causing the referee to stall for a quick inspection by the ringside physician who gave the bout the green-light to continue. From here out, Garner worked bottom and top positions as he controlled the rest of the frame with the judges’ scorecards giving him a 10-9 round.

The tide only took 54 seconds to change as Guram dodged a looping right hand to start the second and caught the American in a head-and-arm choke; the pair then shuffled into the red corner where Guram locked in the standing guillotine and choked Garner unconscious forcing the referee to halt the bout.

Eager to mount another Cinderella run through the list of heavyweight contenders on route to a second shot at the M-1 Challenge heavyweight championship, Garner jumped at the chance to fight Bennett; “I’ll fight anyone, anytime for M-1 GLOBAL,” said Garner. “I’ve got to do better than what I’ve done before and this is my opportunity to chase down my belt! I’ve been training hard and I’m not losing to Pat Bennett.”

As the headline fight on July 8th, expect a war.

Tickets are priced at $75 for the front row and all other seats at $50 and can be purchased online at www.fightcluboc.com, or by calling Roy Englebrecht Promotions at (949) 760-3131.

Mauro Ranallo will call the action from ringside with Pat Miletich serving as analyst. The telecast will be produced by Chuck McKean and directed by Craig Farrell. The executive producer of SHOWTIME Sports is David Dinkins, Jr.

With M-1 Challenge champions established in all five weight classes, a true contenders system will fuel events throughout 2011, driving M-1 Global’s growth as a leading brand in the US and international markets.

2011’s full slate of M-1 Challenge events held in the United States and Europe are primed to be mega-event spectaculars where Champions defend their titles and contenders jockey for position for a coveted shot at the gold. Feeding the contention system will be two Selection tournaments in 2011 with details being announced shortly.

For information on M-1 Global, go to the official M-1 website, www.M-1Global.com and M-1 Global facebook fan page.

For information on SHOWTIME Sports programming, including exclusive behind-the-scenes video and photo galleries, complete telecast information and more, please go to the new SHOWTIME Sports website at http://www.sho.com/sports.

With the scale packed away and all bouts confirmed for Saturday June 4th’s M-1 Ukraine European Battle, top M-1 Challenge contenders and prospects are ready to tear apart the canvas in hopes to clamor up the contention ladder or impress the attending M-1 Executives in hopes of earning a contract with Europe’s leading mixed martial arts promotion (MMA). Fans worldwide can watch the action from the National Circus Arena in Kiev, Ukraine via LIVE streaming telecast on the official M-1 Global website (www.M-1Global.com) and M-1 Global facebook fan page starting at 11:00am EST / 8:00am PST.

“This event is another great example of how M-1 is driving the evolution and growth of MMA in Europe,” said M-1 Global’s Director of Operations, Evgeni Kogan. “Saturday’s fights will showcase some of the Ukraine’s top talent as well as special attraction bouts featuring M-1 title contenders, such as Yasubey Enomoto. The fans tuning in to the live stream will certainly be impressed.”

M-1 Global Special Attraction Bouts:
Welterweight Yasubey Enomoto (169 ½ Lbs) vs. Rafal Moks (170 Lbs)
Lightweight Yuri Ivlev (153 Lbs) vs. Artiom Damkovsky (152 ¾ Lbs)
Welterweight Alexander Agafonov (169 3/4) vs. Husein Haliev (167 ¼ Lbs)
Lightweight Antun Racic (155 Lbs) vs. Vugar Bahshiev (155 Lbs)

M-1 Ukraine Bouts:
Lightweight Ilya Tiunov (153 ¼ Lbs) vs. Farkhad Fatallah (152 ½ Lbs)
Lightweight Sergey Adamchuk (154 ¼ Lbs) vs. Sergey Sinkevich (147 ½ Lbs)
Welterweight Vladimir Opanasenko (168 Lbs) vs. Syanan Yusibov (169 ¾ Lbs)
Welterweight Vasily Novikov (169 ¾ Lbs) vs. Alexander Nimerenko (170 Lbs)
Middleweight (185 Lbs) Alexander Dolotenko (182 ¼ Lbs) vs. Philip Anasovich (177 ¼ Lbs)

Club ‘SK ARIS’ vs. Club ‘BK Belarus’ Bouts:
Lightweight Alexander Kozyr (151 Lbs) vs. Semen Tyrlya (151 Lbs)
Welterweight Vadim Khaitulov (169 Lbs) vs. Viktor Talashov (168 ¼ Lbs)
Middleweight Ruslan Khaskhanov (185 ¼ Lbs) vs. Andrew Dryapko (183 ½ Lbs)
Light Heavyweight (205 Lbs) Saparbek Safarov (204 ¼ Lbs) vs. Igor Litoshik (199 ¼ Lbs)
Heavyweight (205+ Lbs) Igor Zadernovsky (214 ¼ Lbs) vs.Stepan Kostyuchenko (216 ¾ Lbs)

LIVE broadcast coverage of the M-1 Ukraine European Battle will be available to viewers worldwide on the official M-1 Global website (www.M-1Global.com) and M-1 Global facebook fan page starting at 11:00am EST / 8:00am PST.

The 2011 European M-1 Selection tournament second quarterfinal round will be held July 16th, 2011 as part of the Battle on the Neva River 5 card; the event will hail seaside in St. Petersburg, Russia.

M-1 Global is now in full-swing preparation for its fourth mega-event of 2011 scheduled for Friday July 8th from inside the United States. M-1 Challenge XXVI is headlined with undefeated, #1 Ranked heavyweight prospect Guram Gugenishvili (11-0) putting his belt on the line for the second time against decorated American wrestler, Pat Bennett (4-2). In co-main event action, newly crowned Lightweight Champion, Jose Figueroa (10-4) makes his first title defense against feared German submission specialist, Daniel Weichel (26-7).

‘Guram is Coming’ video teaser:

With M-1 Challenge champions established in all five weight classes, a true contenders system will fuel events throughout 2011, driving M-1 Global’s growth as a leading brand in the US and international markets.

2011’s full slate of M-1 Challenge events held in the United States and Europe are primed to be mega-event spectaculars where Champions defend their titles and contenders jockey for position for a coveted shot at the gold. Feeding the contention system will be two Selection tournaments held throughout Europe and North America in 2011.

Coming in as a late replacement to face M-1’s reigning Welterweight Champion Shamil Zavurov (20-1) at M-1 Challenge XXV, 27 year old Swiss mixed martial artist and Sengoku veteran Yasubey Enomoto (6-3) went the full 25 minutes in a tough unanimous decision loss. Although this technically sound prospect made an impact in his first outing with Europe’s leading MMA promotion sharing the cards Fight of the Night top honor, Enomoto is hungry to get back in the ring and chase down another shot at the champ.

Former M-1 middleweight champion, Rafal ‘Kulturysta’ Moks (6-3) made the tough decision to relinquish his title in order to compete in the 170-pound division and square off against opponents better suited to his compact frame; he won the belt in what was considered M-1’s most exciting upset of 2010, overcoming his underdog status in epic fashion with the card’s Submission of the Night, tendon-tearing heel-hook over Magomed Sultanakhmedov at the :19 mark of the opening round..
Both men are eager to get back in the hunt for a title shot and they go head-to-head in a special attraction bout at the M-1 Ukraine European Battle, Saturday June 4th. Fans can capture the action from inside the National Circus Arena in Kiev starting at 11am EST / 8am PST via LIVE streaming telecast on the official M-1 Global website (www.M-1Global.com) and M-1 Global facebook fan page Enomoto is a fan favorite thanks to his electrifying striking and submission skills; his boxing and Muay Thai are second to none and his BJJ makes him a force on the canvas. Enomoto began training in martial arts at age 6, taking up Shotokan Karate and then Shaolin Kung Fu at 16. As a student, he took up Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, in which he currently holds a purple belt. In 2006, he became the domestic amateur kickboxing champion and the IKBO Thaiboxing World Champion in 2008. His decorated grappling career includes the titles: 1X UGC grappling European Champion, 2X international German BJJ and grappling champion, and 2X Swiss BJJ and grappling champion. He holds a Muay Thai record of 7-2, a boxing record of 1-0, and a BJJ and grappling record of 90-8.

Possessing text book Muay Thai, his striking is sharp, fast and targets with laser-guided precision; the same can be said about his boxing skills. On the mat, his BJJ is slick and fluid, allowing him to transition from submission attempts with seamless accuracy. As a versatile hybridized mixed martial artist, Enomoto has few holes in his game; at this stage, his improvement is tied to his evolution and clocking experience against top-tier competition.

Standing opposite Enomoto on Saturday night will be Polish submission specialist and Berserkers team cornerstone, Rafal Moks. With proven cardio, a chin that can withstand power punches and a thick, compact, 5’8” frame which enables him to fight off his back with confidence, his record is decorated with five hi-light reel submission victories. He holds the all keys to build a run towards Zavurov’s welterweight title.

2010 was a great year for the Polish fighter, earning the 2010 M-1 Selections Western Europe championship title with impressive performances throughout the tournament; the talented submission fighter needed just 4:19 to secure a fight-ending rear-naked choke over Serghei Popa in the quarter-finals and 4:56 to dispose of Danijel Dzebic thanks to a suffocating guillotine choke in the semis; both fights showcasing Moks ever improving ground game. With the back-to-back wins, Moks secured himself a spot in the Finals against Ahmed Bayrak; a highly anticipated, back and forth middleweight clash that went three full frames, culminating with the judges awarding Moks the unanimous decision victory.
Although Moks is known for his submission game, Enomoto’s decorated BJJ credentials negate any advantage the Polish fighter brings to the mat, putting both men on an even playing field, and should the contest stay standing, Enomoto’s speed, height and reach advantage make him the clear favourite. An already legitimate top-contender, a win over Moks will position Enomoto for a re-match against Zavurov on a high profile M-1 Challenge card later this year. The flip side of the coin is equally appealing for Moks should he pull out another miracle underdog win, moving him closer to another outing underneath the championship spotlights.

LIVE broadcast coverage of the M-1 Ukraine European Battle will be available to viewers worldwide on the official M-1 Global website (www.M-1Global.com) and M-1 Global facebook fan page starting at 11:00am EST / 8:00am PST.

The 2011 European M-1 Selection tournament second quarterfinal round will be held July 16th, 2011; entitled Battle on the Neva River 5, the event will hail seaside in St. Petersburg, Russia.

M-1 Global is now in full-swing preparation for its fourth mega-event of 2011 scheduled for Friday July 8th from inside the United States. M-1 Challenge XXVI is headlined with undefeated, #1 Ranked heavyweight prospect Guram Gugenishvili (11-0) putting his belt on the line for the second time against decorated American wrestler, Pat Bennett (4-2). In co-main event action, newly crowned Lightweight Champion, Jose Figueroa makes his first title defense against feared German submission specialist, Daniel Weichel (26-7).

‘Guram is Coming’ video teaser:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z3XJgJfI9L8&feature=youtu.be

With M-1 Challenge champions established in all five weight classes, a true contenders system will fuel events throughout 2011, driving M-1 Global’s growth as a leading brand in the US and international markets.

2011’s full slate of M-1 Challenge events held in the United States and Europe are primed to be mega-event spectaculars where Champions defend their titles and contenders jockey for position for a coveted shot at the gold. Feeding the contention system will be two Selection tournaments held throughout Europe and North America in 2011.

German Prospect Faces Alexander Agafonov

Talented, rising welterweight phenom, Christian Eckerlin (6-1), is ready to return to action, eager and intent on shaking off his loss to Alexander Yakovlev at M-1 Challenge XXV. As part of the special attraction bouts at the M-1 Ukraine European Battle on Saturday June 4th, Eckerlin will face Ukrainian National Hand-to-Hand Combat Champion, Alexander Agafonov (2-1). Fans can capture the action from inside the National Circus Arena in Kiev starting at 11am EST / 8am PST via LIVE streaming telecast on the official M-1 Global website (www.M-1Global.com) and M-1 Global facebook fan page.
Fighting out of Frankfurt, Germany and Team MMA Spirit, home to training partner and M-1 Global #1 lightweight title contender Daniel Weichel, 24 year old Christian Eckerlin has quickly racked up a near perfect 6-1 record since making his professional debut in September of 2009; with a trio of submission and KO/TKO wins under his belt, Eckerlin fits M-1 Global’s mold of ‘finishing’ fighters perfectly. His most recent two victories have been impressive to say the least, seizing wins over Sebastian Baron with a one-punch knockout inside the contest’s opening minute, which was awarded Germany’s Best KO of 2010 award, and a systematic destruction of Piotr Hallman that went into the championship rounds; these two tilts are significant in the fact that they reveal Ecklerlin’s power and endurance are evolving with each round clocked.

Eckerlin brings an amped-up energy into each of his battles; his striking is razor sharp with pin-point accuracy and he has a sneaky, devastating left-hook. He shows a veteran’s patience that he leverages when launching an effective counter arsenal and has a keen eye for controlling ring position that enables his highly entertaining fighting style to push the action and pace.

Growing up, Eckerlin began playing soccer at age seven. Playing as a Left Back, he earned a spot on the pro squad of Darmstadt 98 when he was only 17, playing for their first team in the “Regionalliga”. His first foray into martial arts came a year previous when he began training with a friend as part of the Magic Box Team. After a few years of daunting training as a dual-sport athlete, this young aspiring fighter quickly found that managing the pair of commitments became overly exhausting and he made the crucial decision at 20 years of age to quit soccer and fully engage in martial arts.

A naturally gifted athlete, Eckerlin quickly evolved into an accomplished boxer, becoming the amateur “Saarland” champion, but he still yearned to venture into mixed martial arts; it was just last year that he debuted in his first two pro MMA bouts against more-experienced opposition, winning in impressive fashion with back-to-back submissions. Feeding his hunger to improve, he’s made two trips to train with Erik Paulson´s CSW camp, where his toughness and talent have been tested, and has even begun training with UFC lightweight fighter, Dennis Siver. He continues to impress with his ferocious fighting style and isn’t afraid to clock the countless hours of training necessary to evolve into a budding star.

Even though still only in the dawn of his career, Eckerlin has the tenacity and dedication to achieve his goals, leaving German MMA fans considering him to be ‘the next big star’ coming out of Europe – extremely lofty expectations for a relative new comer to the sport.

His first outing with M-1 Global was an awesome opportunity to knock off Russia’s MMA ‘bad boy’ Alexander Yakovlev in one of the card’s most anticipated contests; the night didn’t go in Eckerlin’s favour, getting caught in an inescapable rear-naked-choke in the second round, forced to tap and suffer the first loss of his career.

Dedicated to the sport, Eckerlin returned home and immediately went back to training and he has a second opportunity to make his mark inside Europe’s leading mixed martial arts promotion’s welterweight division. With advantages in speed and striking, Eckerlin is expected to make quick work of Agafonov on Saturday June 4th.

Christian Eckerlin Promo Video:

LIVE broadcast coverage of the M-1 Ukraine European Battle will be available to viewers worldwide on the official M-1 Global website (www.M-1Global.com) and M-1 Global facebook fan page starting at 11:00am EST / 8:00am PST.

The 2011 European M-1 Selection tournament second quarterfinal round will be held July 16th, 2011; entitled Battle on the Neva River 5, the event will hail seaside in St. Petersburg, Russia.

M-1 Global is now in full-swing preparation for its fourth mega-event of 2011 scheduled for Friday July 8th from inside the United States. M-1 Challenge XXVI is headlined with undefeated, #1 Ranked heavyweight prospect Guram Gugenishvili (11-0) putting his belt on the line for the second time against decorated American wrestler, Pat Bennett (4-2). In co-main event action, newly crowned Lightweight Champion, Jose Figueroa (10-4) makes his first title defense against feared German submission specialist, Daniel Weichel (26-7).

‘Guram is Coming’ video teaser:

With M-1 Challenge champions established in all five weight classes, a true contenders system will fuel events throughout 2011, driving M-1 Global’s growth as a leading brand in the US and international markets.

2011’s full slate of M-1 Challenge events held in the United States and Europe are primed to be mega-event spectaculars where Champions defend their titles and contenders jockey for position for a coveted shot at the gold. Feeding the contention system will be two Selection tournaments held throughout Europe and North America in 2011.

For additional information, go to the official M-1 website, www.M-1Global.com and M-1 Global facebook fan page.

Judo Blackbelt Protege Eyes Future Welterweight Title Shot

Talented 20-year-old Croatian fighter, Antun ‘Killer’ Racic (8-2) is riding high after winning the recent Noc Gladijtora 4-man tournament; as the clear favorite in the same-night battles, Racic walked away as champion with a pair of first-round, arm-triangle chokes over Bojan Bilic and Ivan Curak. Ready to prove he belongs on the larger M-1 Challenge stage, Racic looks to mop the mat with Vugar Bahshiev (5-3) in a special attraction bout at the M-1 Ukraine European Battle on Saturday June 4th and climb his way into lightweight title contention. Fans can capture the action from inside the National Circus Arena in Kiev starting at 11am EST / 8am PST via LIVE streaming telecast on the official M-1 Global website (www.M-1Global.com) and M-1 Global facebook fan page.

Racic began training Judo at five years old and got his black belt when he was 15. Acquiring a strong fundamental base through his dedication and training with the Gladiator Fight Team, he became the FILA World Junior Grappling Champion in 2010.

The ‘Killer’ shows a strong defensive stance, protecting his head and body from taking unnecessary shots, and his offensive striking is evolving with each round clocked; exceptional head movement helps to set up precise, relentless combinations and he’s effective at avoiding the counter offensives thrown back at him.

From the ground, Racic shows an innate ability to tie up his opponents hands as a lead-in to launching heavy, stunning head shots; with his foes expecting more punishment, Racic quickly transitions to an arsenal of submission attempts to close out the fight by either stepping seamlessly into full mount to setup an arm bar or seizing his opponent’s back and neck to lock in an inescapable RNC. This ‘Killer’ is quickly racking up a long list of slick submission victories, with seven of his eight coming inside the first round. The only notable area Racic needs to improve in order to elevate his game is his takedown defense, however he has proven to be able escape any potentially dangerous stemming from the single or double leg to date.

Training and evolution can only do so much for this aspiring fighter and the one issue which may prevent him from becoming a threat in his division is his size; standing only 5’5”, Racic may have trouble with some of the larger 155’ers in M-1 Global’s roster, including current champion Jose Figueroa who stands nearly a foot taller.

Regardless, Racic has caught the eye of the M-1 Global executives with his exciting fighting style and joint-jacking submissions and was awarded with a spot in the 2011 M-1 Selection European Tournament; the quarterfinal showdown didn’t go in Racic’s favor, taking a tough loss against Alexey Nevzorov in the first round.

Ready to make the most of his second opportunity with Europe’s leading mixed martial arts promotion and show that he does deserve to be fighting the best European fighters, Racic needs to make quick work of Vugar Bahshiev on June 4th.

LIVE broadcast coverage of the M-1 Ukraine European Battle will be available to viewers worldwide on the official M-1 Global website (www.M-1Global.com) and M-1 Global facebook fan page starting at 11:00am EST / 8:00am PST.

The 2011 European M-1 Selection tournament second quarterfinal round will be held July 16th, 2011; entitled Battle on the Neva River 5, the event will hail seaside in St. Petersburg, Russia.

M-1 Global is now in full-swing preparation for its fourth mega-event of 2011 scheduled for Friday July 8th from inside the United States. M-1 Challenge XXVI is headlined with undefeated, #1 Ranked heavyweight prospect Guram Gugenishvili (11-0) putting his belt on the line for the second time against decorated American wrestler, Pat Bennett (4-2). In co-main event action, newly crowned Lightweight Champion, Jose Figueroa (10-4) makes his first title defense against feared German submission specialist, Daniel Weichel (26-7).

‘Guram is Coming’ video teaser: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z3XJgJfI9L8&feature=youtu.be

With M-1 Challenge champions established in all five weight classes, a true contenders system will fuel events throughout 2011, driving M-1 Global’s growth as a leading brand in the US and international markets.

2011’s full slate of M-1 Challenge events held in the United States and Europe are primed to be mega-event spectaculars where Champions defend their titles and contenders jockey for position for a coveted shot at the gold. Feeding the contention system will be two Selection tournaments held throughout Europe and North America in 2011.

For additional information, go to the official M-1 website, www.M-1Global.com and M-1 Global facebook fan page.