Friday March 2nd

MCC announces match ups for March 2 event

Fast on the heels of another stellar show, MCC is already gearing up for the March 2 event, appropriately titled: Domination. And, with the quick turnaround the Midwest’s most popular promotion certainly didn’t skimp on the fight card!

In the main event of the evening, MCC’s most dominant middleweight champion, Elvis “The King” Mutapcic (9-2) returns to face off against Strikeforce veteran, Dominique Steele (7-2) in a five-round title bout. This is a fight that nobody will want to miss!

Five-time UFC veteran and Des Moines native, Kevin “The Fire” Burns (10-5) faces off with, Mason Temeqiel (6-2), and one of the areas most popular fighters, Ronnie “The Warfrog” Britt steps back in the cage to throw down with knock out artist, ” Fast” Eddie Larrea. Plus, up and comers, Anthony Baccam and Benly Xamonty will look to impress.

More exciting fights will be announced in the upcoming weeks. Tickets go on sale soon, so stay tuned and act fact!

Check out www.MidwestCageChampionship.com for updates on MCC 39: Domination.

Mutapcic, Saldana Win 2010 Fighter of the Year Awards

Each year, MCC recognizes one fighter or one fight that truly exlemplifies what the sport is all about; someone who shows promise by competing with heart, skill, and determination. This year, two fighters were chosen to receive this award.

Elvis “The King” Mutapcic

MCC’s Middleweight Champion, who sucessfully defended his belt three times in 2010 is none other that.  A crowd favorite known for his devastating leg kicks, willingness to stand and trade with anyone, and someone who has never given up. In his last two of three fights, Mutapcic has shown the true heart of a champion, coming back from near defeat to dominate the fight. Mutapcic is the definition of a mixed martial artist.

Luis Saldana

Since signing with MCC, Saldana has gone undefeated in each of his outings, often times, putting on the most exciting performances of the night. A young and hungry fighters, Saldana is trained by none other than Josh “The Dentist” Neer, Elvis ” The King” Mutapcic, and Andy “Danger Zone” Branson. At just nineteen years of age, the sky is the limit for this kid. In 2011, fight fans can expect to see Saldana run for the Featherweight title. Saldana has proven that he is in line to become the future of the sport.

MCC 31: Full Force- This Saturday, “Lil’ Heathen” in Attendance

The Midwest’s top promotion returns this Saturday night to Hy Vee Hall for another night of mixed martial arts action. This talent packed fight card features two title fights including current MCC Featherweight Champion, Josh “Bam Bam” Henry defending his strap against Rick “Gladiator” Glenn, as well as Zak “The Maniac” Laird and Bill Kamery meeting to crown the first every MCC Bantamweight champion.

Also on the card, top light heavyweight prospect, Jesse Lund will square off against MCC newcomer, Blake Breitsprecher, Ronnie “Warfrog” Britt, once again, returns to the MCC cage, and former MCC Featherweight Champion, Will Shutt makes another run for the title. Jay Olsen, Nate Hausen, Allen Shepherd, Alex Harper, Johnny “Hollywood” Case, Todd Schmauss, plus many more, round out the stacked card. Tickets for MCC 31: “Full Force” are available at www.MidwestCageChampionship.com, by phone at 515-229-8566 or at all Dahl’s ticket outlets. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with the first bout kicking off at 7:30 p.m.

If you are a fan of mixed martial arts and highlight reel finishes then you don’t want to miss this! Fresh off his KO of the night victory over Marcus Davis at UFC 125, MCC’s first ever champion, Jeremy “Lil Heathen” Stephens will be in attendance to meet with fans and enjoy the night of fights.

But that’s not all…

Next Saturday features a full day of combat sports action starting at 10:00 a.m at the home of MCC- Hy Vee Hall (730 3rd st- Downtown Des Moines). with the Mission to Submission grappling tournament. Former M2S competitors include UFC veterans Jeremy Stephens and Chad Reiner, WEC vet Chris Mickle, Bellator vet Steve Carl, former MCC champ and IFL alum Victor Moreno, plus notables such as Cole Williams, Chris David and Mike Van Meer.  If you are a fan of technical submission grappling, this is an event you must attend! If you want more information, or would like to compete, go to www.Mission2Submission.com

Then, at 12:00 p.m. MCC Trials IV will began as the popular promotion, once again, scouts out new and up and coming talent. MCC Trials sparked the careers of Miguel “El Rey” Rios, Jr, Nate Hausen, Cole Jennet, Josh “Jigsaw” Atwell, and Elvis “The King” Mutapcic. At MCC Trials, amateur mixed martial artists go head to head to showcase their talent in the ultimate interview process. Come cheer on these competitors as they jockey for a position on the MCC roster. The Mission to Submission Grappling tournament and MCC Trials IV are completely free of charge. Fight fans are encouraged to come and check out the talent pool that only Midwest Cage Championship can bring you!

Immediately following MCC 31: “Full Force”, the party moves right down the street to Kamodo Klub on 3rd and Court for the official MCC after fight party. Hang out with your favorite fighters as well as UFC superstar, Jeremy Stephens.

For more information on MCC 31: “Full Force” as well as all upcoming events, news, and fighter videos, check out www.MidwestCageChampionship.com

On Thanksgiving eve, the Midwest’s top promotion held its annual “Thanksgiving Throwdown,” and the card did not disappoint.  The evening showcased some of the finest up and coming talent in the Midwest along with a combination of submissions, razor close decisions, and brutal stoppages.
 
In the feature bouts of the evening, Rios tasted his first defeat and both, Branson and Mutapcic were able to hold on to their titles.
 
Miguel “El Rey” Rios, Jr. is one of the most exciting up and coming fighters in the Midwest.  So was his opponent, Lance Benoist.  Rios has never tasted defeat in his mixed martial arts career.  Same with his opponent.  Rios just came back from The Ultimate Fighter tryouts- and, he made it to through all rounds.  So did Lance Benoist.
 
With too much in common, these two were bound to meet sooner or later!
 
In what was the billed to be the toughest fight of each others young careers, their fight was a perfect example of just how dangerous well rounded opponents can be.  It showed the golden rule of MMA; make one mistake ad it’s over.
 
And, that’s just what happened.
 
The bell sounded, the two touched gloves, circled, and exchanged punches.  Rios shot, left his neck exposed and BANG!  That’s all Lance Benoist needed to see.  The Vaghi Jiu Jitsu specialist did not let go until the referee intervened.  Rios, the warrior that he is went out on his shield.  Refusing to tap out, he went unconscious.
 
Although it was a blemish on Rios’ perfect record, the young fight with the champion attitude congratulated his opponent, and said that he would use the fight as an opportunity to learn and become a better fighter.
 
In the evenings two title fights, both belt holders were able to successfully keep their championship straps.
 
In the co-main event of the evening, undefeated welterweight champion, Andy “Danger Zone” Branson granted his opponents wish; to stand up and trade strikes.  It took less than one round for Branson to dismantle the 15-3 striker, Justin Demoney, putting and end to the bout in just over four minutes of the opening frame.
 
Branson, who recently took one step closer to his lifelong dream of becoming a fighter pilot, announced the good news following his victory.  Will Branson fly off into the sunset with his perfect record in tact or will he step in for one more hoorah?  Only time will tell, but as we see it- one way or another, the sky is the limit for Branson.
 
MCC’s most dominant champion to date, middleweight sensation, Elvis “The King” Mutapcic faced his toughest opponent to date.  With a series of submission wins over some of the best up and comers in the Midwest, South Dakota’s Josh Rosaaen came into the bout riding a long win streak and with confidence that he would be leaving with the belt wrapped around his waist.
 
And for a moment it appeared that he may….
 
Mutapcic, who is well known for his brutal stand up arsenal, peppered Rosaaen with well-timed jabs and low leg kicks.  Rosaaen, who was expected to try and take the fight immediately to the ground displayed his own striking skills, and late in the first round, landed a nicely placed shot to the chin of “The King”.  Stunned, Mutapcic fell flat to the canvas and just when Rosaeen pounced to land the final blow, Mutapcic instantly came back to life and fended off the assault. Mutapcic had now defended Rosaaen off of his back, and an arm bar attempt. Late in the first round, Elvis wasted no time as he pushed the pace with lightning fast combinations forcing the takedown from Rosaaen.  However, when the submission specialist made one mistake, it was all Mutapcic needed as he clinched up a tight guillotine choke.  Rosaaen tapped out, and once again, Mutapcic who fought through adversity, reigned supreme.
 
Ready for some more?
 
MCC 31 has already been scheduled for January 2011, and the fight card, which consists of more title bouts. For more information stay tuned to www.MidwestCageChampionship.com

MCC 30 Quick Results

Thomas Olofson  v  Chad Vandermark  -  Vandermark  2:02  rd 2 TKO
Jose Colon  v   Mitch Parker -  Parker by split decision
Stoney Stuart  v  Luis Saldana  – Saldana by unanimous decision
Matt Rider  v Brody Jay  -  Rider by split decision
Jeremy Marker v  Shaun McDermott -  McDermott 1:51 rd 1 by  RNC
Mike Graham  v  Nick Rouse  -  Graham  0:18   rd 1 by TKO 
Dean Bradley v  Mike Van Meer  – Bradley by split decision
Dave Severe   v   Ronnie Britt  -  Britt 3:42  rd 2 by RNC
Lance Benoist  v Miguel Rios  -  Benoist  0:57  Rd 1 by Guillotine choke 
Justin Demoney  v  Andy Branson  -  Branson  3:31 Rd 1 by Tapout due to strikes  
Josh Rosaaen  v  Elvis Mutapcic  – Mutapcic  4:50  Rd 1 by Guillotine

Fighter Focus: The Reign of “The King”, Elvis Mutapcic is Ready to Battle
 
One of the most dominant champions in MCC history, Elvis “The King” Mutapcic is a no-nonsense fighter.  He doesn’t care about the fame, the hype, or the smack talk.  He is about respect, courage, and the will to win- time and time again.  In two weeks Mutapcic will, once again, defend his middleweight title when he faces Josh Rosaaen.  As both competitors seem to be destined for stardom, one will break onto the radar.  Mutapcic is preparing in hopes that he will again stand in the center of the cage, when the dust settles, with his hand raised in victory.

Elvis, thank you for taking the time to answer some questions.  First off, being one of the most exciting, dominant up and comers in the game right now, how important is it every time you step in the cage, to put on a great performance?
 
It’s important to me that I always put on a better performance than the fight before.  At the stage I’m at right now, my next win could bump me up to the next big thing, but a loss could in turn set me behind in my dreams, a set back I’m not willing to except.
 
Obviously, with your record and the manner in which you compete, the UFC is the ultimate goal.  Does that put any added pressure on you knowing that a win is a must to get closer to your goal?
 
I would say that it more so motivates me to push myself that much harder.  The fact that I am so close to my dream helps me to push myself harder in training so that I am at my best when I step into the cage.
 
When you make it to the big show, you are not only representing Des Moines, Iowa, but also Bosnia.  You would be the only Bosnian fighter in the UFC, and surely, you would be looked upon as a hero.  How does that make you feel?
 
I wouldn’t necessarily look at myself as a hero but as great representation for who I am and where I came from.  To be the only Bosnian fighter in the UFC would be a great opportunity to show my pride for my home country.
 
Let’s talk about your fight with Josh Rosaaen.  Like you, there is a lot of hype surrounding him.  He appears to be on the same path that you are on.  He has some big wins just like you.  One of you has to go down.  Tell us how you see the fight going?
 
Like I’ve said before, I don’t fix something if it’s not broken.  My game plan is the same every time I step in the cage; keep it standing as long as I can and, if it goes to the ground as I’ve shown in the past, I can handle my own.  As usual, the fans can expect fireworks!
  
Your last fight with Zak Cummings was your greatest performance to date.  You clearly won rounds one through four, then, in the last round, the tide turned, something happened and you got rocked.  For the last couple minutes you were fighting with everything you had.  It was an amazing show of heart.  How much of that last round do you remember, and what was going through your head?
 
First off I want to straighten out the facts. If it wasn’t for the eye poke he wouldn’t have had the opportunity to rock me.  I am a firm believe in ‘how you train is how you fight’ and, even though I was badly hurt my instincts kicked in and my training carried me through.  Never once did losing enter my mind.  What I don’t remember I let my training and reactions show.
 
I understand that you and some of the top fighters in the area have started your own training camp/gym.  Tell us about it and who you are training with for this fight.
 
Due to misunderstandings and the poor treatment of the fighters at my old training camp, myself, Josh Neer, Andy Branson, Miguel Rios and some other very talented up and coming fighters went to a different facility and started our own camp called New Beginnings MMA.  One of our main rules is that we don’t allow wanna-be fighters to train with us. We only want people that are in it to train hard to better themselves and everyone else around them.  We’re not looking for ego’s, fake tough guys and hype.  We are there to train and get better and that is what we expect from one another and anyone who comes in to train.
 
Thank you for your time and best of luck at MCC 30.  Is there anything you would to add, people you want to thank or anyone you want to give a shout out to?

Thank you!  I want to thank all my family, friends and fans that come out to support me when I step in the cage.  Everyone at New Beginnings MMA, Spartan Strength, Des Moines Jiu Jitsu Academy and Precision Combat Training for helping me train.  Last but most definitely not least I’d like to thank all my sponsors.  I will see everyone in a couple weeks when I defend my belt at MCC 30.

MCC’s Annual Thanksgiving Event Just Got Bigger

Normally reserved for highlighting the career of MCC’s top prospect, this year, the Midwest’s top promotion is ready to give the fans exactly what they want; two of the most highly touted competitors in the United States, two champions, defending their titles back to back, another go ’round for one of MCC’s most popular up and comers, Miguel “El Rey” Rios, Jr, undefeated welterweight, Nick Rouse, and the return of the “Warfrog” Ronnie Britt.

On Thanksgiving eve, the weather outside is sure to be brisk, but when the action unfolds, fireworks are sure to heat up Hy Vee Hall as MCC’s most dominant Middleweight Champion, Elvis “The King” Mutapcic (7-1, 6-1 in MCC) rides his four fight win streak into the cage as he puts his belt on the line to face South Dakota native, Josh Rosaaen ( 7-0, 0-0 in MCC) who comes in on a similar five fight win streak.  As both of these young warriors lobby for their place amongst the sports elite, this high profile fight is, without a doubt, going to elevate one or the other into the next level of stardom.

Mutapcic is known and loved for his ‘in your face’ type of fighting, often lighting his opponents up with kicks and punches, has also shown that he is packing submissions in his arsenal.  Not one to shy away from tough competition, Mutapcic is looking forward to the upcoming bout and welcomes the MCC newcomer to bring his A-game.  Rosaaen, on the other hand is well known for his submission game.  In fact, in all of his winning bouts, he’s put his opponents away by forcing the tap before the final bell sounds.  It looks like it’s set up to be a striker versus grappler match, but then again, this is mixed martial arts.  You never know what could happen!

MCC’s Welterweight Champion, Andy “Danger Zone” Branson (5-0, 4-0 in MCC), who last competed at MCC 26: “Triple Crown”, where he submitted Ryan “Bones” Bixler with a slick arm bar in the opening frame, returns to take on Strikeforce veteran and knock out artist, Justin Demoney (14-3-2, 0-0 in MCC) in a five round title bout.  Coincidentally receiving honors for 2009 Fight of the Year when he faced, now training partner, Elvis “The King” Mutapcic, Branson looks to use this experience as a stepping stone to launch him into the spotlight.

Demoney, who was slated to face UFC and MCC veteran, Kevin “The Fire” Burns earlier this year, opted to compete under the Strikeforce banner, dropping his lone fight for the promotion to Jesse Finney.  He now looks to rebound his career, and a win over an undefeated fighter like Branson is just the ticket.

In another feature match, undefeated rising star, Miguel “El Rey” Rios, Jr. (4-0, 4-0 MCC) takes on Lance Benoist (2-0, 0-0 in MCC) in a three round war.  Since neither fighter has ever tasted defeat whether in their amateur or professional career, the stakes are high and the intensity will be even higher as someone’s “0″ has got to go!  This could quite possible be one of the greatest barn burners of the year, and surely one not to miss.

When it comes to preparing for a fight, many MCC fighters call on the assistance of Nick Rouse (2-0, 2-0 MCC), owner and head trainer at Spartan Strength.  At MCC 30, Rouse will, once again, put his skills to the test as the undefeated welterweight trades in his whistle and coaches hat in exchange for a pair of four ounce gloves.  Built like a middleweight, but moving like a lightweight, Rouse has become another exciting fighter that fans love to watch.

And, just when you thought the dust had settled, Ronnie Britt (15-4 MMA, 8-1 MCC) has decided that retirement is overrated.  Break out the American flag shorts, the green gloves and the pony tail holder, the “Warfrog” is ready to jump.  The former lightweight contender who has competed in three weight divisions has decided that his time in the sport is not done and is ready to give it another shot in search of an additional five wins before riding out into the sunset.  We could not be happier to have him back inside the cage and as one of the most popular figures in the sport, fight fans are too!

With more fights announced soon, this is just a sneak peak of some of the action you’ll see on November 24!

For more information on the upcoming event including fighter interviews, video blogs and up to the minute news, log on to www.MidwestCageChampionship.com.  Tickets will be available next Saturday so don’t delay as this is sure to be the biggest mixed martial arts event in the heartland this year!

MCC30 Thanksgiving Throwdown

Wednesday November 24 at Hy Vee Hall, Des Moines, Iowa

Welterweight Division
Thomas Olofson	VS	Chad Vandermark
Lightweight Division
Jose Colon	VS	Mitch Parker
Featherweight Division
Stoney Stuart	VS	Luis Saldana
Lightweight Division
Matt Rider	VS	Brody Jay
Catchweight 165
Jeremy Marker	VS	Shaun McDermott
Welterweight Division
Mike Grahm	VS	Nick Rouse
Light Heavyweight Division
Dean Bradley	VS	Mike Van Meer
Welterweight Division
Dave Severe	VS	Ronnie Britt
Welterweight Division
Lance Benoist	VS	Miguel Rios
Welterweight Championship
Justin Demoney	VS	Andy Branson
Middleweight Championship
Josh Rosaaen	VS	Elvis Mutapcic

MCC 27: “Mutapcic vs Cummings” Makes History

With another event in the books, MCC 27 is already being regarded as quite possibly, the best event in the promotions history. From open to close, these warriors came out to put on a show for the fight fans, and with raw talent, determination, and the willingness to push each other beyond imaginable limits, they performed beyond expectations. And when the dust settled, every one left Veterans Auditorium raving.

The night started out with two MCC newcomers; Josiah Oppman and Dustin Updike bringing the crowd to their feet with three rounds of solid striking. With neither fighter willing to take the match to the ground, they bloodied and battered each other at a feverishly fast pace. With Updike getting the better of the exchanges, Oppman looked to land the one punch knock out. Unfortunately, time ran out and the judges awarded a unanimous decision victory to Dustin Updike. Look for big things to come from both of these young competitors.

A welterweight match up between Jiu-Jitsu specialist, Jay Olsen and hard-nosed striker Chad Vandermark turned out to be an extremely close, back and forth battle. Midway through the third round, Olsen attempted a rear naked choke, but when he was unable to secure the submission, the referee called the fight back up to the feet and Vandermark saw that as a sign to turn up the intensity. He was able to finish strong and for his efforts, he was awarded a split decision victory over the previously undefeated Olsen.

Former MCC Featherweight Champion, Will “The Real Deal” Shutt returned to the cage to face Omaha’s Jordan “The Nebraskan Nightmare” Eggli, who was making his MCC debut. Although Eggli got off to a slow start, he was able to defend over ten arm bar and triangle submission attempts from Shutt, while going for submissions of his own. The Vaghi Jiu Jitsu blue belt, remained calm and composed as he wore down the former champ. But, at 3:44 of the final round, Shutt was finally able to secure the triangle choke that he had been searching for the entire night, forcing Eggli to tap.

Touted as one of the best fights of 2009, Laramie “The Contract Killer” Shaffer and Zak “The Maniac” Laird, agreed to a rematch which marked both fighters professional debut. History was able to repeat itself as both of these warriors went back and forth with punches, kicks and incredible grappling. Laird was able to get off some clean shots that clearly took its toll on the face of Shaffer, while Shaffer attempted to utilize his superior wrestling skills to take the fight to the mat. When the final bell sounded, all three judges saw it the same- a unanimous decision victory for Zak “The Maniac” Laird. The rematch lived up to the hype, and I think all fight fans would agree that we could stand to watch these two go at it on every MCC card.

In the two number on contender bouts, Jesse Lund proved to be too much for “Mean” Dean Bradley. Bradley, who had been on a winning streak, taking out Josh “Bull” Christensen and former MCC Middleweight Champ, Mike “Mini Van” Van Meer, put on an excellent performance, and, at moments, had the more experienced Lund in some compromising positions. However, Lund showed his hard training and never say die attitude as he forced a tap out by strikes late in the second round.

Chris “Mad Dog” Mickle once again proved that strategy can overcome strength and power as he wasted no time going to the mat with hard hitting, Cory “Tha Projekt” Simpson and ending the fight just two minutes into the very first round with an arm bar. Simpson, who made it known that he wanted to stand and trade punches, never had the opportunity to use his hands. It was a tough break for Simpson and a solid win for Mickle. After the fight, Mickle announced that he would be deployed to Afghanistan later this year.

The main event of the evening re-classified the definition of talent and heart! Former MCC Middleweight Champion, Zak Cummings returned to face the current title holder, Elvis “The King” Mutapcic. For five rounds, fans watched the native of Sarajevo, Bosnia pick apart the grappler with brutal leg kicks and punches. While Cummings was able to get off several clean punches of his own, Mutapcic was clearly the superior striker. Cummings took shot after shot, only to be shrugged off and countered by the current champ. Late in the fifth and final round, Cummings grazed the eye of Mutapcic which set him up for a swift combination. Momentarily, Mutapcic was wobbled as the referee looked on closely. It appeared that, although Mutapcic had secured all of the previous rounds decisively, he would be finished. Digging deep, Mutapcic was not only able to survive, but reverse the position to finish out the fight in a dominant fashion. The crowd was electrifying and the atmosphere was almost deafening as Bosnian and American supporters alike, cheered for “The King”. Mutapcic had faced and conquered his toughest opponent to date and proved that he has what it takes to fight amongst the most elite mixed martial artists in the world. Fight fans can expect big things from Mutapcic in the upcoming months!

The Internet has been buzzing and people have been raving over MCC 27 for the past several hours. With fight fans hungry for more, MCC has already started working on the next line up, which will take place in August. For more information, check out www.MidwestCageChampionship.com.

Full Results Below:

Josiah Oppman v Dustin Updike -    Updike by  Unanimous decision- 3 rounds
Henry Meza v Eric Kapayou-     Kapayou by triangle choke 2:32 Rd 1
Seth Craig v Johnny Coleman-    Craig by RNC :22 rd 1
Jay Olsen v Chad Vandermark-    Vandermark by split decision - 3 rounds
Mitch Parker v Luis Saldana –     Saldana by RNC 1:40 rd 2
Jordan Eggli v Will Shutt – Shutt by triangle choke – 3:44 rd 3
Jeff Carstens  v Miguel Rios –  Rios by RNC 1:41 rd 1
Rick Glenn v Colby Karaidos – Glen by TKO 2:49 rd 1
Laramie Schaffer v Zak Laird – Laird by Unanimous decision- 3 rounds
Jesse Lund v Dean Bradley- Lund by Tapout from strikes  3:34 rd 2
Cory Simpson v Chris Mickle –  Mickle by Armbar 2:00 rd 1 

Middleweight Championship

Zak Cummings v Elvis Mutapcic- Mutapcic by unanimous decision after 5 rounds