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:  Getting to Know Justin Demoney

Strikeforce veteran and multiple time mixed martial arts champion, Justin Demoney is preparing to make his MCC debut against Andy “Danger Zone” Branson.  Expected to be a great slugfest, Demoney talks about his big show experience and how he thinks the fight with Branson will go down.

Justin, welcome to Midwest Cage Championship.  We’re excited to have you with the promotion.  Since you are making your debut and fighting for a title simultaneously, tell the fans about yourself, your background in mixed martial arts, and what you are bringing to the cage at MCC 30.
 
Well, I have been competing for a few years now.  I currently hold three other titles, all in the welterweight division.  My current mixed martial arts record is 27-3-3.  And, my ideal opponent is someone who will stand and exchange with me.  I love to bang with my opponents.  I’m hoping Andy Branson will do the same.  It will make for a great fight.
 
 
You were slated to face Kevin “The Fire” Burns earlier this year at MCC, but you were called up to fight in Strikeforce.  What was that experience like?
 
It was cool to get the call up but ended up dissapointing and eye-opening. I let the crowd and “big names” really get in my head, which in the end, brought about a loss on my record.  I would love to fight Jesse Finney again.  I think the outcome would be much different.  No matter what, it’s very hard for fighters to mentally prepare for a big show like UFC or Strikeforce.
 
Makes perfect sense!  Obviously you are one of the up and coming standout fighters in the Midwest, much like the fighter you are facing, Andy Branson.  With so much at stake- you trying to get back to the big show, Branson trying to break into the big show, do you feel there is any additional pressure?
 
Not really, I have been to the big show, so now, our regional shows don’t seem as exciting. I think I am able to focus better in the smaller shows after having been in front of 10,000 people. 
 
As you know, Andy Branson is undefeated in combat sports (MMA, Professional Boxing, and muay Thai).  Nobody has figured out the key to defeating him.  What are you going to do to change that and put the lone blemish on his record?
 
Simple- I am going to reach out and touch him.  I have done serious damage to the last three opponents I have faced.  I have devastating power in my hands, so they say…..I am excited to fight Branson, he is supposed to be “tough”.  We will have to see on November 24.
 
How is training camp going and who are your training with right now? 
 
Camp is rough as they all are, this one, especially has added stress because I just recently started a new job which is physically exhausting, and exhausts my body prior to evening training.  This is only enhancing my cardio though, I feel.  I am training with good guys, strong wrestlers, one in particular, Abe Trujilo, who, in my opinion, is one of the best wrestlers in the Midwest. I train with a couple different camps, both bringing something different to my training. 
 
Okay, let’s get away from the upcoming fight and talk fantasy MMA for a second.  Suppose you get by Branson and the big show comes calling.  What is your dream fight, for what promotion and which venue.  You can choose any promotion, weight, destination.  Who do you choose and why?
 
That’s an easy on.  I would like to fight for the UFC, in Las Vegas, against Carlos Condit.  I would love to punch him in the face…a lot!
 
Thank you for your time.  We look forward to watching you compete.  With your striking credentials mixed with Branson’s, this bout has fight of the night written all over it.  Is there anyone you would like to thank, or anyone you would like to give a shout out to?

I would like to first thank everyone with MCC for allowing me this opportunity.  Also, I want to thank my girl for putting up with my crap all the way through, to this point.  Shout out to my boys Minivan and Abe Trujilo, my training partners at home, my hometown friends who made this trip for me, God, for blessing me with the ability to fight well enough to get to this level, and my family.  I love you Dad and Jess.

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!

Many times, as fight night nears, competitors are pushing their bodies to the limit- sometimes past their limit. Often, you will read of a fighter who was forced to pull out of a contest due to an injury, a cut, or other physical incapacities. It happens.

Early last week, MCC officials learned that Justin DeMoney, the Ottumwa-based fighter set to take on five-time UFC veteran, Kevin “The Fire” Burns, would not be competing at MCC 25: “Inferno”. What was the reason? Fill in the blank…

“It was very strange. We keep in contact with our fighters- especially those involved in big fights or title fights. A few weeks ago we received a message from Justin DeMoney saying that he was out of the bout due to personal problems. When we were able to reach him, he said he was fine and excited for the bout. Then, last week he called back with a bevy of reasons why he would not be fighting. He blamed his manager. He said he was going to be fighting in a big organization, although he could not come up with a name for the organization. The whole story was just odd. More than likely, reality set in, and he knew the time to back up his talk was coming near. He has a good record, and he is probably more worried about keeping that in tact rather than facing Burns and getting another blemish.”

When one door closes another one opens. In this case, Jason “Type One” Louck kicked the door right off the hinges.

The former MCC Middleweight Champion has fought some of the biggest names in the fight game. An aggressive brawler who is not afraid to exchange punches with anyone, Louck is looking forward to the challenge, and he knows a win over Burns will skyrocket him to the top of the Midwest food chain.

A member of the world renowned, Team Miletich, Louck has a variety of top notch training partners at his disposal. Louck is focused, and ready to put his skills to the test.

MCC 25: “Inferno” takes place Saturday, March 13 at Hy Vee Hall. Tickets are available at www.MidwestCageChampionship.com, by phone at 515-229-8566 or at all Dahl’s ticket outlets. For more information check out the web site.

On the Edge of Stardom; Getting to Know Justin DeMoney

By Randy Thomas

Over the past several months, Midwest fight fans have been hearing the buzz surrounding the Oskaloosa-based fighter, Justin DeMoney.  On March 13, at MCC 25: “Inferno”, DeMoney will look to take the next step towards his dream of making it to the UFC when he steps in the cage with 5-time UFC veteran, Kevin “The Fire” Burns.

With an 12-1 professional mixed martial arts career (23-2-3 overall record), DeMoney knows how to win fights.  His biggest career victory to date, came just a few months ago when he defeated UFC veteran and professional boxer, Jesse “Iron Jaw” Sanders with punches in the second round.  DeMoney, who boxed for eight years, and wrestled for four years has been putting his skills to the test, racking up three championship titles and only going the distance in two of his professional fights.

“I am predominantly a stand up fighter,” stated DeMoney.  “Most of my wins have come by knock out or technical knock out, but if the fight goes to the ground I can submit people too.  I’m not worried about that.”

Facing Kevin “The Fire” Burns will surely be DeMoney’s biggest test to date as Burns has recently faced some of the toughest competition in the world.  However, the Oskaloosa welterweight is ready for the challenge.

“I’ve beaten UFC vets before.  I’ve beaten guys ready to go into the UFC.  I know what I have to do and I’m prepared to go in and do it on March 13.”

Tickets for MCC 25: “Inferno” are available on-line at www.MidwestCageChampionship.com, by phone at 515-229-8566, or at all Dahl’s ticket outlets.  MCC 25 will take place at Hy Vee Hall in downtown Des Moines, Iowa on Saturday, March 13, 2010.  For more information about the upcoming event log on to the web site.

MCC Lights up Des Moines With an Inferno

On the heels of one of the most exciting nights in mixed martial arts, Midwest Cage Championship has announced the date for their upcoming event.  Fight fans can officially mark their calendars for March 13, as the Midwest’s top promotion moves their event just next door from historic Veterans Auditorium to Hy Vee Hall.

The fight card is already shaping up as fan favorite, Josh “Bull” Christensen (6-2) has agreed to take on “Mean” Dean Bradley (4-2); the heavy handed slugger who just netted the second fastest knock out in MCC history with his destruction of Mike Downey at MCC 24: “Reloaded”.  Christensen is looking for the win that will propel him towards the coveted Light Heavyweight Championship belt as Bradley looks to make a statement over his toughest, most experienced opponent to date.

In the co-main event of the evening, five-time UFC veteran and Des Moines native, Kevin “The Fire” Burns (7-4) returns to his hometown on his quest for dominance as he takes on one of the hottest up and coming prospects in the game; Justin DeMoney (12-1).  MMA fans worldwide have come to know Kevin Burns as a fighter who will stand in the pocket and trade with anyone.  Burns is well known for his two epic battles with Anthony “Rumble” Johnson, as well as one of 2008′s top submissions over jiu jitsu black belt, Roan Carneiro.  DeMoney has a recent second round TKO victory over fellow UFC alum, Jesse “Iron Jaw” Sanders, and he looks to take one step closer to his dream with a win over Burns.

The main event features the current MCC Middleweight Champion, Elvis “The King” Mutapcic (5-1), as he defends his belt against MCC newcomer, Brett “The Natural Disaster” Stevens (13-3).  The former 246 pound heavyweight has rededicated his life to MMA, and the Machado trained submission wizard, who has recently captured a gold medal in ADCC grappling tourney, is looking to add some more hardware to his collection when he faces “The King”.  The native of Sarajevo, Bosnia who now calls Ames, Iowa home is intent on prolonging his reign and looks to show that he is the next big thing to come out of the Midwest.

Tickets for MCC 25: “Inferno” are available on-line at www.MidwestCageChampionship.com, by phone at 515-229-8566, or at all Dahl’s Gocery Store ticket outlets.  Ticket prices are $25, $35, $40, and $50.  VIP table seating is also available.  For more information of the fight card as well as all up to date MCC news, log on to the web site. MCC is always an ALL AGES EVENT.