Two New Champs are Crowned, Teager Retains Belt

With another successful event in the books, MCC reflects on “Triple Crown” and gears up for the next event.

In the first of three title bouts, top contenders Paul “The Gingabread Man” Bird and Josh “Bam Bam” Henry battled four rounds for the vacant Featherweight title. In what proved to be the most exciting fight of the evening, every minute of each round was action packed, extremely close on the judge’s scorecards, and displayed the evolution that both fighters have gone through to become two of the top mixed martial artists in the game today. It was mid-way through the fourth round when Henry was able to catch bird in a fight ending submission to walk away the victor. An extremely ecstatic Henry attributed the rigorous training schedule he endured throughout his eight week camp and credited his respect for Bird’s abilities pushed him to compete at a higher level. Even in defeat, Bird displayed tremendous skills, and we are excited to have him back in the MCC cage very soon.

The co-main event of the evening pitted number one contender, Andy “Danger Zone” Branson against late replacement, Ryan Bixler. The bout almost got an early start during the fighter face off at the weigh in as words were exchanged and tempers flared. Once fight time came, Bixler wasted no time in coming straight at Branson, landing a superman punch to knock the undefeated fighter straight to the mat. However, when the fight hit the ground, Branson displayed the discipline and technique that has kept his record blemish free. Branson patiently avoided strikes until he was able to secure the left arm of Bixler. Not willing to let go, Branson cranked on the joint until he was able to get a tap at the two minute mark of the very first round. Although there was no love lost in this bout, Branson had his hand raised and the new champion hardware placed around his waste. “Danger Zone” has proved, once again, that he belongs with the elite in the Welterweight division.

Bryce Teager has been somewhat inactive since winning the MCC Lightweight Championship in 2008. In his first title defense, however, he showed no signs of ring rust at MCC 27 when he faced on of the most dangerous striker in the Midwest. When Teager’s original opponent, former MCC champion and WEC veteran, Chris “Mad Dog” Mickle was unable to compete due to a previous fight, Corey “Tha Projekt” Simpson gladly accepted the bout on just three weeks notice. Simpson had just come off a devastating victory at MCC 26, and was in shape and ready for the bout with the champion. The title bout came down to who could impose their will; grappler or striker. When the opening bell rang, Simpson looked for the big punch that he’s known for. Teager, however, had a different game plan. He waited patiently for the opportunity to execute a double leg takedown. Although Simpson was able to defend it for a while, he was soon put on his back as the champion transitioned from side control to mount, eventually taking the back of Simpson and working in the rear naked choke. Teager successfully defended his belt.

Fight fans can expect the next event to, once again, deliver the action and excitement that only MCC can. As executives are planning a return in June, the fight card is already shaping up to be on of the best in MCC history. Be sure to check out www.MidwestCageChampionship.com for the latest news, fighter interviews, blogs, and event information.

MCC 26 Results

Steve Greene v Luis Saldana- Saldana by Ref stoppage

Don Dresher v Trvis Branson- Branson by Keylock

Chuck Cook v Chris Avery- Avery by RNC

Tony Crowder v Laramie Shaffer- Shaffer by Ref stoppage due to Strikes

Nick Walker v Jake Burriola- Burriola by Ref stoppage due to Strikes

Johnny Case v Mike Miller- Case by RNC

Tom Ahrens v Daraughn Canada- Ahrens by RNC

Ben Crowder v Pablo Lara- Crowder by Dr. stoppage

Rod Montoya v Ted Worthington- Worthington by Triangle

Mike Van Meer v Dean Bradley- Bradley by Split Decision

Featherweight Championship
Paul Bird v Josh Henry- Henry by Triangle

Welterweight Championship
Ryan Bixler v Andy Branson- Branson by Arm bar

Lightweight Championship
Corey Simpson v Bryce Teager- Teager by Arm bar

Reiner Replaced for Title Fight
 
UFC veteran Chad “The Grinder” Reiner, who was set to face top welterweight contender, Andy “Danger Zone” Branson, was forced to withdraw from the contest due to am injury sustained in training.  According to his management team, Reiner was nearing the final phase of his training camp when he injured his ribs making further training impossible.
 
Fortunately, a quality opponent was only one call away.  Ryan Bixler, am experienced veteran who holds wins over quality opponents that include former MCC champion Teddy “Red” Worthington, will leave his training camp in San Diego, California to make the trek back to his native Iowa.
 
Officials from MCC reported, “Bixler, who is originally a product of Team Miletich, was excited for the opportunity.  He has been already training at Alliance (San Diego) with UFC fighters Brandon Vera, Jeremy Stephens, Joe Brammer, and WEC Champion Dominck Cruz, so he is in shape and ready to go.  This fight will be amazing, and we are pleased that we could find a worthy opponent who was willing to step up on short notice.  The fans will definitely appreciate this match up.”
 
Tickets for MCC 26: “Triple Crown” are available on-line at www.MidwestCageChampionship.com, by phone at 515-229-8566 or at all Dahl’s ticket outlets.  For more information on the fight card, interviews, blogs and video’s, check out the web site.

With Big Shoes to Fill, MCC Returns Next Month
 
 
Fast on the heels of the most exciting, action packed event to date, Midwest Cage Championship returns to Hy Vee Hall on Friday, April 16 for MCC 26: “Triple Crown”.  The night will feature three five-round title fights and nine additional bouts highlighting some of the top up and coming mixed martial artists.
 
Andy “Danger Zone” Branson vs. Chad “The Grinder” Reiner
 
Undefeated welterweight prospect, Andy “Danger Zone” Branson has been tearing through the competition on his was to the big show.  Standing in his way will be two-time UFC veteran Chad “The Grinder” Reiner, a submission specialist hailing from Omaha, Nebraska.  Reiner, a former member of the United States Marine Corp is as tough as they come and will prove to be a challenge for Branson.
 
Branson stated, “Ultimately, my goal is to make it to the UFC.  Reiner has been there twice.  To prove that I belong there, I have to beat him- and beat him convincingly.  I have already started my training camp, and I will look to make this my most impressive performance to date.”
 
Paul “The Gingabread Man” Bird vs. Josh “Bam Bam” Henry
 
Two of the top contenders in the featherweight division will go head to head for the 145 lb. crown, which was recently vacated by Eric Marriott following an agreement with the ESPN-based promotion, Bellator.
 
No stranger to tough fights, TUF/Ultimate Fighter reality show alum, Paul Bird looks to climb up the ladder on his quest back to the bright lights and pay per view cameras.  With a recent win over WEC and Pride veteran, Joe Pearson, Bird looks to impress.  However, the baby faced brawler, better known as “Bam Bam” is ready for the challenge.
 
Henry commented, “Paul Bird is a great fighter.  I have a lot of respect for him, and I think it’s going to be an exciting fight.  I can see us going toe to toe throughout the whole fight.  The fans will get their money’s worth on this fight alone.”
 
His opponent agreed.  And, this could prove to be one of the best battles of 2010.
 
Bryce Teager vs. Chris “Mad Dog” Mickle
 
Reigning Lightweight Champion, who has been on a one-year hiatus from the promotion, has been chomping at the bit to step back into the cage.  And, who better than to welcome him back is none other than Chris “Mad Dog” Mickle.  One of the most experienced fighters in the game, Mickle has tested his skill in both the lightweight and featherweight divisions.  He’s held the MCC Featherweight belt, and he’s fought the best 145 lb. fighter in the world, Jose Aldo, in the UFC’s sister promotion, WEC.
 
“Almost every time I fight in MCC, I put on the fight of the night.  This will not be any different.  I know what Bryce brings to the table, and I know what I’m bringing to the table.  But, what I plan on taking home is his belt.”
 
 
Tickets for MCC 26: “Triple Crown” are available on-line at www.MidwestCageChampionship.com, by phone at 515-229-8566, Wells Fargo Arena Box Office, or at all Dahl’s Grocery ticket outlets.  For more information, fighter interviews, video’s and blogs, check out the web site.

Friday, April 16th, 2010 @ HyVee Hall

Featherweight Division
Steve Greene	VS	Luis Saldana
Catchweight 195
Don Dresher	VS	Travis Branson
Featherweight Division
Chuck Cook	VS	Chris Avery
Bantamweight Division
Tony Crowder	VS	Laramie Shaffer
Lightweight Division
Nick Walker	VS	Jake Burriola
Lightweight Division
Johnny Case	VS	Mike Miller
Featherweight Division
Tom Ahrens	VS	Daraughn Canada
Middleweight Division
Ben Crowder	VS	Pablo Lara
Welterweight Division
Rod Montoya	VS	Ted Worthington
Light Heavyweight Division
Mike Van Meer	VS	Dean Bradley
Featherweight Championship
Paul Bird	VS	Josh Henry
Welterweight Championship
Ryan Bixler	VS	Andy Branson
Lightweight Championship
Corey Simpson	VS	Bryce Teager

What’s up,

Well another MCC is officially in the books and I am back to work, back in the gym, and busy nursing my bumps and bruises.  I’m pretty sure I couldn’t get out of a pillow fight without looking like a raccoon so I can’t really complain with getting through a great three round fight with nothing more than some black eyes. 

After the fight we all went to Komodo club downtown to check out the MCC after party then headed to IHOP for our late night meal.  This is where our waitress informed Elvis that he wanted a philly cheese steak with no onions and ranch dressing. He then proceeded to ask her how she knew what he wanted and she responded by telling him that all bosnians order the same thing, which would have been racist if it weren’t so true.  I got back home at 4 a.m. and downed some ib profen to get ahead of the soreness that I knew awaited me the next day and called it a night.

I want to thank Jason Louck for putting on a great fight Saturday night that I hope all of you enjoyed.  The thing about fighting is that it takes two people who are willing two step into that cage for a fight to happen and it is always an honor to find someone who is willing to fight as hard as they can for three rounds.  I talked to Jason after the fight and he is an incredibly nice guy who I wish the best of luck to in the future.  I also want to that all of my coaches and training partners who helped me for this fight Josh Neer, Elvis Mutapcic, Chris Weitz, Anthony Porcelli, Chuck Grigsby, Nick Rouse and everyone else who has brought me to where I am and who will help me to keep moving forward.  Without the help and support you guys give me none of this would be possible.

Most importantly I want to thank all of the fans that come out to the fights and cheer for us.  Without you guys none of us could do this and these shows would not be possible.  The motivation that we get as fighters comes from all of the support you guys give us and every time I step in the cage my goal is to put on a show for everyone who has given up their hard earned money to watch us fight.  I am truly thankful for all the support I got leading up to this fight and hopefully I can keep putting on great fights for you all in the future.

Finally I want to thank my friends from the band Mindrite for helping me get motivated for my fights.  I have been friends with these guys for several years and I like to think of myself as their biggest fan.  These guys write and record some amazing music and walking into the octagon with the song “Hunger and Fear” playing always gets me focused.  If you get a chance check them out on myspace or try to catch them in concert in Des Moines.  Their music is great and their live shows are something I encourage you all to experience. 

I am already back in the gym prepping for my next fight and also helping Josh and Elvis get ready for their upcoming fights.  Elvis will be defending his 185lb belt in March and I will be doing everything I can to get him ready for that fight.  Today was also my first day back at work at the 132nd Fighter Wing and it’s always entertaining to see the looks I get from everyone who sees the beat up face but doesn’t want to ask what happened.  Hopefully I can enjoy a little downtime over the next couple weeks and spend some time with the family enjoying our new place in Waukee.  The stress of a fight and the weight cut tends to wear on everyone’s nerves and I’m lucky to have people around me who are willing to put up with me in the weeks leading up to the fight.  Hopefully I can spend some time relaxing and getting back to normal and I look forward to seeing all of you out and about around Des Moines in the upcoming months.
 
Take Care and Thanks for Following,
Andy

What’s up,

Hope you all are enjoying the recent break in the weather. This last week I have been training hard twice a day every day and cross my fingers, I’ve kept injury free. First and foremost I want to thank all the guys at Des Moines MMA for their help getting ready for this fight. I especially want to thank Elvis Mutapcic for pushing me day in and day out, Josh Neer for being there everyday, and Rev for his constant positive attitude which is a great motivator in the gym. I am a firm believer that you are only as good as your training partners and I think my career thus far had been a testament to the quality of the guys around me. I would also like to thank Nick Rouse for bringing my strength and conditioning to a new level which has given me even more confidence going into this weeks fight. Finally I want to thank Chris Weitz who has taught me so much about fighting and beyond that has been a great friend.

Monday, TJ O’Brien and myself had the privilege of sitting down with Marcus of KCCI channel 8 for an interview for MCC 24 this Saturday, I’m sure I won’t be getting any offers to host my own show anytime soon but it was a fun time and I managed not to say anything to make myself look too ignorant.

My weight cut is well under way and so far I have lost about 20 of the 26 lbs needed to make the cut to 170lbs and I can say for certain everyone around me is ready for me to be able to eat again. I don’t think tempermental even begins to cover how I get when I cut weight so if you have had the unfortune of having to be around me in the last week I apologize now. On the topic of cutting weight I’m quite positive that someone at aspen gym is plotting against me. The reason for this suspicion is caused by the coincidence that every time I need to get on a treadmill the only ones open always happen to be located directly in front of the television playing the food network. There is nothing worse than being deprived of food and having to stare at a delicious cheese cake being sculpted right in front of your eyes.

Lastly I wanted to let everyone know my shorts for the fight have arrived and as always they are very, let’s just call it form fitting, so hopefully they will be effective in showing off all the results from spartan strengths caveman like workouts.

Tonight I’ll head to Maximized Life Chiropractor Center to have Brett adjust me, and have me feeling ready going into Saturday night, then the rest of the week will be focused on getting everything tightened up for the fight and shedding the remainder of the weight. Saturday night we will be doing our after party at Twisted Parrot and I would love to see everyone out to party with us.

Thanks for all of the support and I hope to see you all Saturday at Vets.

Andy

Jake “Dirty Bird” Brown vs. TJ “The Spider” O’Brien

Jake Brown

Strengths:  Knock out power in both hands, good wrestler, endurance
Keys to Victory:  Jake Brown will have to close the distance to land big punches on his feet.  If he takes the fight to the ground, he will need to immediately move to half guard or side control to deliver any damage.  It will be imperative that if he stays in the guard of O’Brien that he stays postured up and remains aware of O’Brien’s legs.

TJ O’Brien

Strengths:  MMA record holder for most wins via triangle choke, reach advantage, experience
Keys to Victory:  O’Brien should avoid getting into a slugging match with Brown.  Using his reach, he can effectively pick Brown apart with punches and kicks to try and force him to shoot for a takedown.  On the ground, O’Brien should avoid letting Brown get the distance needed in order to land big shots.  O’Brien will need to remain patient while he searches to lock up his patented triangle choke.

Since this bout is scheduled for five rounds, the advantage is with TJ O’Brien who will be searching for a submission as soon as the fight hits the mat.  O’Brien is very good at avoiding damage due to his lanky frame.  Using his long legs, he’s able to keep his opponent not only wrapped up, but he also has the ability to extend and keep them away.  Jake Brown will need to pick his shots wisely, but if he finds an opening he needs to take full advantage of it.  Brown is known for his heavy hands, and for good reason.  If he can remain in half guard or side control, he will be able to land the shots he needs to either out point O’Brien or win with strikes.

Styles make fights, and this one has the potential to be one of the most exciting bouts of the year.

Co-Main Event

Alonzo “Zo Diddy” Martinez vs. Paul “The Gingabread Man” Bird

Alonzo Martinez

Strengths:  Experience on big shows, aggressive, dangerous on the feet and ground
Keys to Victory:  Martinez will look to rely on his experiences in high profile fights.  He has a brutal ground and pound game and a big right hand.  He will, however, want to avoid getting into an exchange with Bird as this is where Bird is incredibly experienced.

Paul Bird

Strengths:  Lightning fast punches and kicks, good takedown and submission defense, performs well under pressure
Keys to Victory:  Bird will want to keep the fight standing where he is the strongest.  Although he has good submission defense, there is no need to spend anytime on his back taking shots from Martinez.  In the clinch, Bird will want to remain active and not let Martinez settle into his rhythm.

This is another high profile fight, and in my opinion, the winner could likely get thier shot in WEC or UFC.  Although this could put pressure on both fighters, Martinez has been in several of these bouts.  He has wins over three UFC vets and a five round draw with another.  Bird is extremely hungry, and he also has a recent first round stoppage over WEC and Pride veteran, Joe “The Triangular Strangular” Pearson.  He has flirted with the UFC already as a prelinary cast member of The Ulimate Fighter, so he will use this opportunity to try and catapault him back into their good graces and show the superbowl of mixed martial arts that he is deserving of a spot on their roster.  With both fighters possessing the ability to end the fight at any moment, I do not see this bout going the distance, but I do see this it as a highlight reel in the making.

Jason “Type One” Louck vs. Andy “Danger Zone” Branson

Jason Louck

Strengths: Former MCC Champion, experience with tough opponents, KO power in both hands Keys to Victory: When Louck has proven to be the strongest is right off the bat. I look for him to come out of his corner and go right after Branson. Louck has devastating punches and can end the fight with any one of them he lands.

Andy Branson

Strengths: Polished muay Thai skills, good submissions, relentless attacks Keys to Victory: Branson will want to avoid getting into a striking exchange with Louck as Louck has lighting fast, powerful punches. Branson would be better served using his punches to set up kicks and vice versa. Branson is a patient fighter who will look to land the right shot. If the fight goes to the ground, Branson has shown that he can submit his opponents from the top or the bottom, but I see him being strongest on his feet.

This fight will crown the number one contender to the MCC Welterweight title. Louck has tested the waters at 170 pounds before, and this is Branson’s first fight as a welterweight mixed martial artist. The fans at MCC 24 will get a show with this bout for sure. I would like to see this fight stay on the feet, but often times, when you have two good strikers, game plans change and take downs, dominant positions and submissions come into play when putting together the ultimate game plan.

Katy Klinefelter vs. Cassie Roddish

Katy Klinefelter

Strengths: Nationally ranked boxer, experience
Keys to Victory:  Katy will need to rely on her boxing experience to keep her relaxed and one move ahead of her opponent as Roddish will look to put pressure on her from the opening bell.  Klinefelter is well versed in the submission game as well, so she does not have to rely on her hands to get the job done.  Klinefelter will want to watch out for kicks and unorthodox strikes that Roddish will surely fire off when given the chance.

Cassie Roddish

Strengths:  Heart, durable, never gives up
Keys to Victory:  What Roddish lacks in experience she makes up for with heart and drive.  She needs to apply pressure early and work her clinch game with knees and elbows.  Klinefelter will, most likely, look to pick her apart from the outside range, so Roddish will need to keep her hands up, chin down, and be relentless with her attacks.  Although Roddish has not finished any fights by submission, she has another female in her camp that is a purple belt in Brazillian Jiu Jitsu, so she is sure to be well versed in submission defense.

This could be a great fight as I do not look for either of them to shoot for a takedown.  We may see the classically trained boxer versus the muay Thai technician.  Although either could end the fight with a punch or a kick, I see both of them having the heart to tough it out for all three rounds.  I think at the end of the fight when the dust settles, these two may gain thousands of fans, a standing ovation, and possibly fight of the night honors.