Victor Moreno

Brammer out, Superman to the rescue!

Amongst some promotions, when one of the main event fighters is forced out of their scheduled bout, it spells almost certain turmoil for that show. It can send the matchmaker reeling to find a suitable replacement for a fight that has already been hyped up for weeks. Not for MCC though! Not when you have a super hero on speed dial!

Earlier this morning Midwest Cage Championship learned that two-time UFC veteran and Des Moines native, Joe “The Hammer” Brammer was pulling off the card for undisclosed personal reasons. MCC brass immediately hit the phone lines in search of a fighter suitable for main event status. Luckily, only one phone call was made.

Former MCC middleweight champion, Victor “Superman” Moreno quickly stepped up to the plate to fill the void. Moreno, who returned to MCC following a year plus hiatus from the sport, quickly dismantled MMA pioneer Dennis Reed at MCC 33. He returned two months later to face number one contender, Calley Kruger; another fast rising Midwest star. In true “Superman” form, Moreno was able to take his foe down in just a matter of minutes.

Now, when Moreno returns at MCC 36 “Back in Action” he will face yet another tough competitor; a man who is no stranger to fighting, both in the cage and overseas for our country.

Kyle Davis is the longtime Brutaal middleweight champion. He been kicking ass and taking names for years. A United States Marine who recently served a year-long tour of duty in Afghanistan, he returned to the states to face and defeat former MCC champion, Mike ‘Mini Van” Van Meer in the very first round.

Davis, who makes his MCC debut as a main event fighter has never been one to back down from a challenge, and a true veteran like Moreno will certainly prove to be the toughest of fight of his MMA career.

Suddenly, this already stacked card became even more exciting. Let’s get it on…

Nutrishop presents, MCC 36 “Back in Action”, Friday, September 23 at Hy Vee Hall, downtown Des Moines, Iowa. Tickets are available on-line at www.MidwestCageChampionship.com, by phone at 888-324-5849 and at all Dahl’s Food Store ticket outlets. For more information on this card, including fighter interviews, video’s and blogs, check out the web site.

Joe Brammer vs Chris Mickle

Former champ and UFC vet Joe Brammer set to return at MCC 36

After vacating his lightweight belt to chase stardom in the superbowl of mixed martial arts; the UFC, Joe “The Hammer” Brammer returns home in an effort to resurrect his career and claw his way back to the big show.

Joe Brammer has had an exciting 24 months. He’s faced rising star Mark Bocek and long time competitor in his two UFC appearances. He’s enjoyed the sunny beaches of San Diego, California while soaking up the techniques of MMA’s who’s who, and he’s returned home and built one of the most successful new martial arts training centers in the area.

With things somewhat settled down he has returned back to training and recently began his camp in preparations for his next appearance; a meeting with gritty slugger Jeremy Castro on September 23.

Brammer, whose greatest influence is Bruce Lee believes in the master’s philosophy; Use only that which works, and take it from any place you can find it’, which basically translates to: know a little bit of everything, do not focus on one area of martial arts but rather focus on all aspects of game. And, that’s a perfect way to describe Joe Brammer’s style. On the feet he moves with the swiftness of a professional boxer while throwing an array of Thai and karate-type kicks. On the ground he’s as fluid as water; always hunting for a submission and staying one move ahead of his opponent.

Now that a fight is set with Castro, Brammer will look to sharpen up his skills in order to make a statement to the MMA community. Certainly a win over a tough as nails opponent would kick his career back into high gear.

MCC offficials said, “Castro has knock out power in both hands and he’s tough to submit. He’ll fight hurt, bloody, and on one leg if he needs to. Joe is not getting an easy fight, and in Jeremy’s case, a win over a UFC vet like Joe Brammer has a big upside. This is an important fight for both of them.”

Nutrishop presents; MCC 36: “Back in Action”, Friday, September 23 at Hy Vee Hall, downtown Des Moines, Iowa. The fight card will also feature long-time vets Ronnie “Warfrog” Britt and Josh “Bull” Christensen as well as rising star Luis Saldana and others. More exciting bouts are expected to be announced later this week. For ticket information, fighter interviews, video’s and blogs, check out the web site.

Nutrishop Celebrates its Newest Location in Ankeny

 
This Saturday, MCC’s title sponsor, Nutrishop, will celebrate the opening of their third location with celebrity appearances, free supplement samples, door prizes, and MCC ticket giveaways.  The festivities will kick off at12:00 p.m. at Nutrishop, located at 2010 SE Deleware in Ankeny, and last until 4pm.
 
Television reality star and spokesperson for thermogenics, Trista Sutter, whose appearances on The Bachelor and The Bachelorette made her America’s sweetheart, will be on hand to sign autographs and meet fans.  UFC fighters Kevin “The Fire” Burns and Joe “The South Side Strangler” Brammer will also be on hand alongside MCC champion, Elvis “The King” Mutapcic and number on contender, Andy “Danger Zone” Branson, to meet and greet everyone.
 
Nutrishop is the leading high-quality sports nutrition and weight loss superstore with other locations at 640 S. 50th Street in West Des Moines, and 4518 Mortensen in Ames.  Stop in to any location for all of your fitness, supplementation, and diet needs.

At 9pm that night, Twisted Parrot (6500 Hickman rd) will be televising UFC 112: “Invincible” live from Abu Dhabi.  The main event on the card has Lightweight Champion, BJ “The Prodigy” Penn in his highly anticipated match with up and coming New Jersey native, Frankie “The Answer” Edgar.  Reigning Middleweight Champion, Anderson “The Spider” Silva will defend his title against Brazillian jiu jitsu master, Demian Maia, and former Welterweight belt holder, Matt Hughes will take on Renzo Gracie.

Joe Brammer on MC22

From MCC to the UFC; It’s Brammer Time
 
Late in 2008, Joe Brammer made his return to MCC defeating Michael Johnson in one the most fast paced, exciting fights ever contained inside the MCC cage.  Although that bout  taught the resilient fighter from the south side of Des Moines a lot about himself, he learned more than anything that his lifelong dream of competing in the super bowl of mixed martial arts was not too far in the future.  He patiently waited.
 
Earlier this year, Brammer signed on to be a part of MCC’s pilot reality show, “Making the Fighter”.  For weeks Mediacom followed Brammer as he prepared for his upcoming fight.  They filmed him sparring.  They filmed him training at Spartan Strength.  The filmed him relaxing.  And, at the culmination of the show, Joe Brammer stepped into the cage and defeated MCC alum and WEC fighter, Chris “Mad Dog” Mickle in a five round domination that proved to the world that he was ready.
 
The phone call finally came.
 
As a professional mixed martial artist, the sweetest words you’ll ever hear are, “Congratulations, you are going to be fighting in the UFC.”  That’s how you know you’ve made it.  All the bumps and bruises, the highs and lows, the blood, sweat, and tears- they were all worth it.  This Saturday night, after years of training, fighting, and waiting, Joe Brammer will make his UFC debut on Spike TV’s Ultimate Fight Night 20, when he enters the world famous Octagon to face Canadian Jiu Jitsu ace, Mark Bocek.
 
In a deal worked out with the UFC and Brammer’s management team, the Mediacom producers that brought you “Making the Fighter” will travel to sin city, Las Vegas, Nevada to film Brammer and capture all of the behind the scene action that most people will never have the opportunity to see.  Tune in to MC22 to watch Brammer making weight, and all of his preparation leading up to the fight as well as interviews from his trainers, fight fans, and more.
 
We, at Midwest Cage Championship would like to congratulate Joe on all of his success, and we’re proud to add him to the long list of fighters that have gone to the UFC to represent the talent level from MCC.

With the most stacked MCC card to date, the Midwest’s top promotion delivered what was promised to be non-stop action from start to finish.  MCC 22 “Reality Check” featured a Lightweight title match between reigning interim champion, Joe “The Hammer” Brammer and former featherweight champion, Chris “Mad Dog” Mickle.  Although most expected Brammer to finish the hard nosed brawler shortly into the contest, Mickle proved that he is still a contender taking the champion five, five minute rounds as he hung tough in losing a unanimous decision to the younger, more technical fighter.  Shortly after the fight, Brammer stated, “I thought I may have broken my hand in the second round, but, when I went back to my corner at the end of the third I knew it was broken.  I wanted to knock him out, but with only one hand I had to start using my elbows more, and I had to get him to the ground to do that.”  Brammer, who retained his title will have plenty of time to heal while he waits to face MCC lightweight champion, Bryce Teager in an upcoming event.

In what became fireworks from bell to bell, young guns Zak Laird and Laramie Shaffer put on a performance deserving of fight of the night honors.  It was Iowa versus Iowa State when the doctor to be, University of Iowa student, Zak Laird used his solid kick boxing skills to defeat ISU wrestler, Laramie Shaffer in a three round war.  MCC Co-owner, John Halverson said, “These are two of my favorite up and coming fighters.  I’d been telling everyone leading up to the show to keep an eye on this fight because I knew it was going to be the best of the night.”  He concluded with, “If we had these guys fight each other at every MCC, the fans would never get sick of watching it.”

In the upset of the night, WEC hopeful, Bill Kammery stepped in to the cage to put his undefeated record on the line when he squared up against Josh “Bam Bam” Henry.  Right out of the gate, Henry came out strong, taking the Golden Gloves champion to the ground.  However, he quickly found himself on the bottom eating heavy leather from the bearded bomber.  Clearly losing the first round, Bam Bam came out of his corner for the second a focused fighter.  With a slick takedown and transition to rear naked choke, Kammery was forced to tap out and Henry found himself at the winning end of the biggest fight of his young career.  Following his win, Henry said he knew he was the underdog, but that didn’t matter to him.  He knew he was going to be victorious no matter who was put in front of him.  Undefeated as a professional, he’s asked MCC for a title shot.  MCC co owner and matchmaker, Ryan Hass noted, “With a win over Kammery he is deserving of a title shot.  We’re going to take a look at scheduling and see when we can make it happen.”

The promotion which is known for showcasing the talents of the best up and coming fighters in the Midwest is already gearing up for their biggest show of the year- the annual “Thanksgiving Throwdown” which is set for Wednesday, November 25 at Vets Auditorium.  For more about MCC 22, the fighters, and upcoming events, log onto www.MidwestCageChampionship.com.

MCC: Making the Fighter

Making the Fighter, which began filming in June, followed MCC Interim Lightweight Champion, Joe “The Hammer” Brammer and up and coming brawler, Colby “The Alligator” Karaidos, as they prepare for upcoming bouts at MCC 22 “Reality Check,” Sept 5th at Vets Auditorium.  The reality show will give an inside look at the intense training regimen that mixed martial arts fighters go through, and will air on Mediacom Connections Ch 22.

Local companies such as Prairie Meadows, The Iowa Lottery, Nutrishop, and Insanity Fightwear took an interest in the show, while Spartan Strength, Team Round Kick, Des Moines Jiu Jitsu Academy, and Grandview are featured as the official training facilities for the fighters.  Viewers can go to www.MidwestCageChampionship.com for more information about the show, the fighters, contact information, and what’s coming up at MCC.

The 1st episode (Round Kick Gym) hit the screen this week, and will replay this Saturday (8/22) at 4:30pm & 11:30pm. The 2nd episode (Spartan Strength) will debut this Sunday (8/23) at 6:30pm & 9:30pm. The series will continue to run on Mediacom Connections Ch. 22.

Update:

Episode 3 airs Wednesday (8/26) 6:30pm
Thursday (8/27) 10:30pm
Episode 4 airs Friday (8/28) 7pm
Saturday (8/29) 1pm

Also, MCC 22 “Reality Check” is Saturday, Sept 5th at Vets, and approaching quickly. Visit www.MidwestCageChampionship.com, to purchase tickets, view pre-fight interviews, get the Brammer/Mickle break down, and much more.

Here are a few previews of the show:

Making the Fighter Sneak Peak

MCC Making the Fighter

Spartan Strength

Nutrishop

Brammer vs Mickle. Another big fight in the MCC looms close and I look forward to it like many of you do of course, but I also have some trepidation.  You see, the fighters involved are two friends of mine and this fight means a great deal to both of them.  Someone is going to win and possibly move on to bigger things, the loser will have to regroup and start all over again. I have trained with both of these guys extensively over the years, most recently to prepare for my final fight. Both Chris and Joe have been instrumental in making me a better fighter and I cant thank them enough for their dedication.  I love them both and have a tremendous amount of respect for them not only as fighters but also as friends. Come Sept 5th, I will be elated for one of them, heartbroken for the other. Given the nature of the sport, I have become somewhat accustomed to guys I know competing against each other. Heck, I too have fought guys I consider friends, but it doesn’t mean I have to like it. I will be glad when its over, that’s for sure!

Joe Brammer used to train with the DMEF team quite a bit several years ago. He was one of the youngest guys that came to our gym, but he had a world of potential.  Not everyone endures brutal sparring sessions with seasoned tough guys…and then comes back the next day for more. Not only did Joe do that, he would go to other places to train as well. I marveled at this young kid and his humble manner and I still do. He soaked up any training advice we could give him or any techniques as well.  Joe hasn’t changed at all, he is still the same dude…just a hell of a lot tougher. Joe has traveled and trained at a variety of places and its paid off for him. He is one of the most well rounded fighters to compete for the MCC. His stand-up game is precise and accurate, he can kick and punch as well as anybody. Joe has heart and a great chin that complements that stand up game very well.  He trains with the Des Moines Jiu Jitsu Academy so you know his ground game is top notch. Fans of the local fight scene know Joe can go the distance and he can end it quick.

A few months after Joe moved on, Chris Mickle was introduced to the DMEF (Des Moines Extreme Fighting) team by Mike Van Meer and he has trained with us pretty much most of the time since then aside from is service with the military until recently.  Chris is a fighter at heart through and through, he was born to be a warrior.  I don’t know if I have ever seen anyone with as much determination and heart as Chris. What he lacks in precision, form and accuracy, he makes up for in volume, ferocity and intensity.  He is like one of those horror movie guys that just keeps coming after you, even when you think they are done. Right away I recognized Chris for the hard nosed kind of fighter he was, seldom do you see a guy with as little fear as him. He doesn’t care if he gets punched or kicked, in fact I think the little demented goof likes it. Most people will shy away from going toe to toe with someone, but Chris has a way of actually bringing that out of you while sparring and in fighting.  The next thing you know you are in a slugfest. But Chris is well rounded as well, his ground game is under appreciated. What Chris is known for is his stamina and granite chin, but I think he just stubbornly refuses to get tired or hurt. A big part of his success in reality is his strength and his skill set that he applies with it.

So how do I see the fight going? Probably not to different than many of you.  I don’t know if I can see either of them submitting the other, at least not right away. Maybe in the 4th or 5th round if one is rocked or tired perhaps, but I don’t think it will be a submission. I can say that while doing many rounds with these guys, they don’t usually look for a sub right away, they will both bang a bit.  Can either of these guys knock the other out? Most definitely. Joe has good, sneaky hooks that can make you see stars, Chris has punches that come from nowhere that makes the birdies tweet in your head. Also in the striking department, Joe also has tremendous head kicks, lord knows I have felt those on many of occasions. He will throw kicks in combinations and mixes them in very well. Chris can kick but it isn’t his forte, he will throw lots of punches with very bad intentions. I can see both guys coming out and taking their time till the first flush punch lands, and then it will be on!  Look for Chris to press Joe and look for Joe to use precision counter punching. Both guys are experienced and patient fighters, they will not rush into any mistakes.  Joe can be very hard to hit, he is very elusive. Chris can be very easy to hit, mainly cuz he likes that. This is probably going to be a huge factor, but you recall how I said that Chris has a way of turning it into a slugfest? Well, his head is right there and the temptation to punch him is too overwhelming (don’t try it if you meet him though). Both guys are as tough as they come, Chris has inhuman pain tolerance and Joe will have his hands full.  So who is going to be the winner?  Well, it’s you… the fans! See you guys at the cage.

Saturday, September 5th, 2009 @ Vets Auditorium

MCC 22 Results

1. 1. Chad Zurfluh v Mike Miller Miller Rd 2 (1:48) Head & arm choke
   2. Laramie Shaffer v Zak Laird Laird – Unanimous Judges Decision
   3. Phil Conley v Barrett Eller Eller Rd 1 ( :45) Verbal submission
   4. Nick Rouse v Brad Davis Rouse Rd 1 (1:23) Head & arm choke
   5. Patrick Perkins v Miguel Rios Rios Rd 1 (:55) Arm bar
   6. Dean Bradley v Ian Tice Tice Rd 1 (4:03) Head & arm submission
   7. Daraugh Canada v Nick Walker Canada Rd 3 (:37) TKO
   8. Bill Kamery v Josh Henry Henry Rd 2 (1:40) Rear naked choke
   9. Matt Scaggs v Josh Christensen Christensen Rd 1 (2:12) Tap to strikes
   10. Chad Vance v Jesse Lund Lund Rd 2 (1:46) Triangle choke
   11. Alex Harper v Jake Brown Brown Rd 1 (3:28) TKO
   12. Chris Mickle v Joe Brammer Brammer – Unanimous Judges Decision

Bantamweight
Josh Troen	VS	Nate Williams
Lightweight
Chad Zurfluh	VS	Mike Miller
Featherweight
Laramie Shaffer	VS	Zak Laird
Heavyweight
Phil Conley	VS	Barrett Eller
Welterweight
Nick Rouse	VS	Brad Davis
Welterweight
Patrick Perkins	VS	Miguel Rios
Middleweight
Dean Bradley	VS	Ian Tice
Lightweight
Daraughn Canada	VS	Nick Walker
Featherweight
Bill Kamery	VS	Josh Henry
Light Heavyweight
Matt Scaggs	VS	Josh Christenson
Light Heavyweight
Chad Vance	VS	Jesse Lund
Lightweight
Alex Harper	VS	Jake Brown
Lightweight Interim Championship
Chris Mickle	VS	Joe Brammer