Promoter BlackEye Athletics had originally schedule it’s anticipated MMA and Muay Thai fight card titled “West War – Battle on the Western Front” for this Saturday, March 24th. On Thursday, however, they made the difficult decision to postpone the event to early May after not being entirely happy with the scheduled card.

Below is the official press release:

By Conrad  Kelly

Douglasville, Georgia (March 21, 2012) – BlackEye Athletics Promotional Team announced today that the date for their event “WEST WAR: Battle On The Western Front” has been moved to early May 2012.  “I wasn’t happy with the fight card.  I felt that I needed to postpone the event, so that we could build a better card for the fans of West Georgia.  I’m happy with every other aspect of our promotion; however, we have to focus on making better matches for our first event.  I want to put out the best product that we can for the fans.”

West War will be hosted at the Gold Dust Gymnasium in Villa Rica, GA.  The fight card will be packed with Mixed Martial Artists (MMA) and Muay Thai practitioners from Atlanta’s west side – Douglasville, Hiram, Villa Rica & Carrollton.  New date to follow.

Venue:                  Gold Dust Gymnasium

                                646 Industrial Boulevard

                                Villa Rica, Georgia 30180

Tickets:                  $360– VIP Table of 6 (ringside), $45 Ring Side, $35 Floor Seats, $25 Bleachers

                                Free Admission for Police, Fire Fighters and active military (with ID).

Website:               www.BlackEyeAthletics.com/promo

GeorgiaFighters.com is working closely with BlackEye Athletics and will update the site as soon as the official date is set.  Stay tuned!

Contact:               Bryan Keith, CEO

bryan.keith@blackeyeathletics.com

(678) 457-2507

Tymeka Keith, VP, Marketing

Tymeka.keith@blackeyeathletics.com

(678) 895-9368

GEORGIA FIGHTERS CHAMPIONSHIP (GFC) RANKINGS AND CHAMPIONS 

The GFC rankings are not approved or endorsed by the Georgia Athletic & Entertainment Commission.

Bellator 64: Ben Askren vs Douglas Lima set for April 6 in Ontario

Posted on MMAMania.com

CHICAGO, Ill. (February 8, 2012) – After a dominating run through the Season 5 Welterweight Tournament, Douglas “The Phenom” Lima (@PhenomLima) is ready for the greatest test of his career when he battles reigning, undefeated Bellator Welterweight Champion Ben Askren (@BenAskren) for a shot at the world title. The two will clash LIVE at Caesars Windsor in Windsor, Ontario, Canada on Friday, April 6. Tickets for this event go on sale at Noon ET on Saturday, February 18 and are available via CaesarsWindsor.com or by visiting Ticketmaster.ca. Tickets are priced from $30-$125 Canadian.

The event will broadcast starting at 8 p.m. ET on MTV2 and in commercial-free HD on EPIX. Doors open to The Colosseum at 6 p.m. ET, with the first fight entering the cage at 7 p.m. ET. The preliminary card will be streamed LIVE and FREE around the world on Spike.com starting at 7 p.m. CT.

After a split-decision victory over former UFC veteran and Season 4 Welterweight Tournament winner Jay Hieron, the undefeated Askren is well aware of what it takes to hold onto the welterweight strap. Already known as the best wrestler in Mixed Martial Arts, Askren, a former U.S. Olympian, has continued his stand up training with the legendary Duke Roufus and is well on his way to becoming one of the best welterweights in the sport.

“After my fight with Jay, I went back to work the following Monday to continue my training,” Askren said. “I made no secret I wasn’t happy with my performance in that fight, and now having spent over six months training at Roufusport, I’m really confident in my striking. Douglas is a great fighter, but I don’t think he’ll be able to handle what I bring to the table.”

***

Lima enters the fight looking to push his win streak into double digits as the Brazilian-born knockout artist is seeking to dethrone Askren as Bellator Welterweight Champion. The thought of becoming Champion has been the driving force for Lima since he signed with Bellator, and with the title just one win away, Lima has taken his focus and determination to the next level.

“There is no question Ben is a great fighter, and I’ve been focusing a lot of time on my wrestling,” Lima said. “This is the biggest fight of my career, and I’m preparing for it. It’s all I think about. Every day from the time I wake up, until the time my head hits the pillow, I’m thinking about April 6th and winning the title.”

Bellator 64 will also host the semifinals of the promotions Season 6 Featherweight Tournament. Marlon Sandro (@351marlon), Ronnie Mann (@RonnieMannMMA), Alexandre “Popo” Bezerra (@alexandre_popo) and Daniel Straus (@DanielStraus) headline one of the deepest tournaments in Bellator history and only add to a stacked night of fights.

In addition, the night will feature Ontario native and knockout artist Chris “The Polish Hammer” Horodecki (@chrishorodecki) taking on a soon to be named opponent. Still just 24, Horodecki (18-3-1) has the resume of a veteran mixed martial artist, including an impressive 12-fight win streak to begin his professional career.

“The support we have received in Canada has been nothing short of spectacular, so when we had the chance to bring Bellator to Windsor, it was an easy decision, “said Bellator Chairman & CEO Bjorn Rebney. “Ben Askren vs. Douglas Lima will showcase two of the best and brightest starts in the world at 170 lbs. The fans watching inside Caesars and the viewers catching the fights on MTV 2 and theScore are in for a great night.”

“In the tradition of Caesars entertainment, we are thrilled to bring another exciting fighting championship event to the Colosseum with Bellator 64,” Kevin Laforet, President and CEO of Caesars Windsor said. “We are proud to partner with Bellator Fighting Championships whose great reputation brings fans the best MMA fighters to the cage.”

Ticket purchases can be made through caesarswindsor.com or at the Box Office located in the main casino building on the second floor, open Wednesday to Sunday from noon to 8 pm. On concert days, the Box Office is open noon until midnight. Guests must be 19 years of age or older to attend concerts and to enter the casino and all other outlets. Prices listed do not include applicable taxes and fees.

For more information, visit Bellator.com, follow Bellator on Twitter @BellatorMMA, follow Bellator Chairman & CEO Bjorn Rebney @BjornRebney and check out Bellator on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Bellator.

Results for King of The Ring IV

Saturday 17 March 2012

Grand Ballroom in Norcross, GA

MMA: DFC Light Heavyweight Championship

Aaron “Tex” Johnson vs. Misha Cirkunov

Winner:                Aaron “Tex” Johnson defeats Misha Cirkunov by Submission (Inverted Heel Hook) in the 1^st Round.

Boxing: WBC Continental Americas Lightweight Title

Chris Howard (14-1-1, 6KOs) vs. Arash Usmanee (18-0, 8KOs)

Winner:                Arash Usmanee defeats Chris Howard via 10rd Unanimous Decision.

Scores:                 98-92, 100-90, 98-92

Boxing: Heavyweight

Olanrewaju Durodola (6-0, 5KOs) vs. Joseph Rabotte (11-20-1, 3KOs)

Winner:                Olanrewaju Durodola defeats Joseph Rabotte via KO at :56 of 1^st round.

Boxing: Cruiserweight

Michael Seals (9-0, 5KOs) vs. Robbie Tovar (15-7-1, 4KOs)

Winner:                Michael Seals defeats Robbie Tovar via KO at 1:56 of 1^st round.

Boxing: Light Welterweight

Nicole Woods (11-9-2, 3KOs) vs. Belinda Laracuente (26-26-3, 9KOs)

Winner:                Belinda Laracuente defeats Nicole Woods via 6rd Majority Decision.

Scores:                 58-56, 57-57, 59-55

Boxing: Weltwerweight

Jordan Wisenfeld (1-0-2) vs. Christian Dominguez (2-1, 2KOs)

Winner:                Jordan Wisenfeld defeats Christian Dominguez via 4rd Unanimous Decision.

Scores:                 39-37, 39-37, 40-36

Boxing: Featherweight

Jerson Ramos (1-0) vs. Trey Anderson (0-1)

Winner:                Jerson Ramos defeats Trey Anderson via 4rd Unanimous Decision.

Scores:                 40-36, 40-36, 39-37

Prices

Ten dollars $10.00 USD Fifteen dollars $15.00 USD Twenty five dollars $25.00 USD Thirty dollars $30.00 USD

THIRD ANNUAL COMBAT SPORTS EXPO
PRESENTED BY GEORGIA FIGHTERS
SATURDAY, APRIL 7
AT WILD BILL’S

The Combat Sports EXPO, taking place on Saturday, April 7 at Wild Bill’s, has become a tradition in the Georgia fight community presented by Georgia Fighters and this year will be no different as each part of the EXPO has grown in comparison from the previous year.

Photo: Andrew Snook

The centerpiece of the EXPO will be the Georgia Pro-Am Championship Grappling Tournament. Last year’s grappling tournament exceeded our expectations and as a result of that we will have the entire floor of Wild Bill’s devoted to the Grappling Tournament.

“This will be an amazing transition for Wild Bill’s as we’ll go from hosting a grappling tournament all day on the main floor to begin building the ring at 4 pm for our Wild Bill’s Fight Night that evening,” said David Oblas, promoter for Wild Bill’s Fight Night and partner in Georgia Fighters. “This is something that’s never been done in Georgia before and truly a first of its kind!”

The inside of Wild Bill’s will not only feature the grappling tournament; but will also have live tattoos being performed by Sacred Heart Tattoo and about 30 vendor booths. Sacred Heart Tattoo has long been known as one of Atlanta’s premier tattoo parlors with Tony Olivas leading the charge not only for his stores; but for the annual Atlanta Tattoo Festival.

Outside of Wild Bill’s will be similar to last year; but much more intense. There will be drifting, FMX East will return for its sensational motorcycle jumping, a bikini contest at 6 pm, a car and bike show, kids games and inflatable jumpees, a DJ and food, beer and non-alcoholic drinks.

“Not only have we increased the amount of things going on outside; but we’ve made each aspect of the EXPO better by partnering with much better companies,” said Jose Santiago, partner in Georgia Fighters. “In fact, for each person that enters the car show, 50% of that money will be directly turned over to Moving For the Cure to benefit Breast Cancer research!”

Registration for the grappling tournament is now open online here for both Gi and No-Gi participants.

For information on reserving your booth click here

For more information about becoming an official sponsor click here

For more information email jose@GeorgiaFighters.com or dave@GeorgiaFighters.com.

Prior to making his way into the TUF house last Friday, John Cofer sat down with Inside Punch host Kimberly Sargent to talk about the opportunity.

Brian Keith, promoter of  “West War: Battle on the Western Front” took time out of his busy schedule to reach out to the students of West Georgia on The Morning Howl internet radio station to help get them excited about the event.  West War: Battle on the Western Front, is schedule to take place on March 24th at Gold Dust Park 646 Industrial Boulevard, Villa Rica, GA 30180

Featured on the card is one of Georgia’s best Muay Thai fighters Anthony “Nightmare” Nieves along with other top local talent.

Below is the full interview video.

WILD BILL’S FIGHT NIGHT #44
THIS FRIDAY, MARCH 9
BRETT CHISM VS DAVE VITKAY FOR THE GFC MIDDLEWEIGHT TITLE!
CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS AT TICKETMASTER

RED                                                                                    BLUE

Fight 1: 150 lbs: Amateur Muay Thai
Dennis Siudut                     Matt Gohr
HIT Training Center                   Knuckle Up Fitness 

Fight 2: 147 lbs: Amateur MMA
Matt Maulder                     Billy Joe Bradshaw
Gentry’s MMA                      Spartan Fitness 

Fight 3: 172 lbs: Amateur MMA
Clint Blizzard                  Trevor Hutcherson
HIT Training Center                   Team DOJO 

Fight 4: 120 lbs: Amateur Muay Thai
Gizely Andrade                        Rachel Seltzer
Sitan Gym                             Knuckle Up Fitness 

Fight 5: 170 lbs: Amateur MMA
Elvis Cruz                    Shea Taylor
Gentry’s MMA                    Saraiva MMA 

Fight 6: 187 lbs: Advanced Amateur MMA
For the GFC Amateur Middleweight Championship
Chris Ruiz                     Chris Gibbs
Independence MMA                   Knuckle Up Fitness 

Fight 7: 172 lbs: PRO MMA
Ricky Rainey          Pat Mandio
Renegade Fighting Systems                 X3 Sports 

Fight 8: 157 lbs: PRO MMA
Napoleon Etienne              Gui Curry
Rodriguez MMA              Knuckle Up Fitness

Fight 9: 150 lbs: PRO MMA
Keith Richardson                  Ronnie Rogers
Modern Warrior MMA                      HIT Training Center             

Fight 10: 172 lbs: PRO MMA
Blaine Thomas                  Steele McCall
Renegade Fighting Systems               X3 Sports 

Fight 11: 187 lbs: PRO MMA
For the GFC Middleweight Championship
Brett Chism         Dave Vitkay
The HardCore Gym               Knuckle Up Fitness

WILD BILL’S FIGHT NIGHT #44
THIS FRIDAY, MARCH 9
SHEA TAYLOR VS ELVIS CRUZ!
CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS AT TICKETMASTER

On April 17, 2010, Shea Taylor made his amateur MMA debut without must fanfare. Just another guy looking to break into the sport of MMA. On August 27, 2011, Elvis Cruz did the same thing. Both of them won their first ever MMA fight.

Shea is now undefeated at 2-0; but has lost a leg. Elvis is now 1-1; but has both his legs.

Shea lost his left leg a little more than a year ago in a motorcycle accident and is now America’s first MMA fighter that is fighting with a prosthetic leg with the approval of a state athletic commission. His first fight back with the artificial leg was a successful one as he won his fight a few months ago at Wild Bill’s. But it was not without controversy as his opponent shot in, twisted his leg off and the fight was stopped for a few minutes while Shea and his personal doctor put the leg back in its place.

His opponent for this Friday night at Wild Bill’s, Elvis Cruz, has promised not to twist the leg off, but has also not revealed any part of his game plan. According to the rules of the Georgia Athletic & Entertainment Commission, Cruz has full right to go after the leg and/or kick it at any point in time as the fake leg is regarded as a normal leg come fight time.

GeorgiaFighters.com talked to both fighters as they prepare for Friday night’s fight at Wild Bill’s.

ELVIS CRUZ

GeorgiaFighters: This is your third fight and your second in front of a big crowd at Wild Bill’s; but possibly your most high profile fight as you fight amputee Shea Taylor. What does this fight mean to you?  

Cruz: This is a great fight for me.  I have a lot of respect for Shea but, he’s a man just like I am.  My job is to go in there and implement the game plan my coaches have created and show everyone how good I am. I’ve trained hard for this fight and I think I’m going to be the guy to hand Shea his first loss. 

GF: Why did you accept this fight versus Shea Taylor? 

Cruz: Atlanta is full of a lot of good fighters and sometimes it’s tough to get a fight.  When I’m offered a fight that my coaches think is good for me, I don’t argue or ask questions.  I’m just grateful for the opportunity to showcase my skills.

GF: No rules will be changed for this fight despite him having an amputated leg and wearing a fake leg. Do you have any strategy for the fight?

Cruz: Yes and it’s a good one!

GF: His last opponent went for his leg early, pulling it out which caused the referee to stop the fight so it could be reattached. Do you plan to go for the leg?

Cruz: No.  Our game plan is based on his style as a fighter.  It doesn’t include attacking the leg.

GF: His last fight was at 157 lbs and you’re a natural 170 lb fighter. How do you expect your bigger size to play out in the fight?

Cruz: It’s definitely going to change things for Shea.  He’s a tough dude but, he’s never gone the distance or fought anyone as strong as I am with a gas tank like I have.  March 9^th, Shea and I are going into deep waters.  We’ll see how well he does.

SHEA TAYLOR

GeorgiaFighters: Last time you fought you were America’s first amputee to fight MMA with the approval of a state athletic commission. Now you’ve accomplished that, what does this fight mean to you?

Taylor: This time around I’m much more relaxed and focused on training. Leading up to the fight in September, there was so much hype surrounding my “situation” that it was distracting. I have been able to commit my full attention to getting better as a fighter and sharpening my craft. I’m excited that now I am viewed as a fighter and not a side show.

I still carry the flag for all of those who struggle with physical disabilities, which I hold close to my heart. We have successfully helped CHOA raise money to have the Camp No-Limbitations in August. I now want to raise awareness for the wounded warrior project. This fight is a great platform in doing so.

GF: The first time you fought with your prosthetic leg, your opponent went for your leg, pulled it out which caused a stoppage in the fight while you had it suctioned back in. Do you expect your opponent Friday night at Wild Bill’s to try to do similar?

Taylor: Yeah, I hear he’s working on leg kicks into the thigh of my amputated side. I’m cool with that, I train with a Muay Thai world champion (Jeff Perry, Saraiva MMA). We have worked countless hours on checking and countering leg kicks.

GF: What did you learn in your first fight with your new prosthetic leg?

Taylor: I learned that I have a pretty good following at Wild Bills! Once the incident of my leg being targeted took place, the response of boos and heckling my opponent fired me up. I think I still have tons to learn as a fighter, not because I have a prosthetic leg.

GF: You’ve had the opportunity to meet Kyle Maynard, a congenital amputee that fought MMA a few years ago. What was that meeting like?

Taylor: That dude is amazing! We had a great meeting at a Starbucks in Buford following the September fight. It was cool to pick his brain about how he uses his blessing to impact others. I was humbled to hear him speak of how proud he was of my accomplishments. I will always hold that meeting as one of my favorite lunches ever.

GF: Explain what happened to you that caused you to lose your leg.

Taylor: I was attacked by Shamu at sea world! Nuff said! Those killer whales are mean, who knew?

GF: Last time you fought it was at 157 lbs, Friday’s fight is at 170 lbs. How is the extra 13 lbs going to effect you come fight night?

Taylor: I hope it doesn’t! I’m just a skinny guy from Brodhead, KY and to make weight, Jenna (my girlfriend) has had me on a strict diet of raw cookie dough, fried everything, and tons of ice cream. I may come in a little chubby, but will hopefully make weight.

GF: What have you been able to find out about your opponent Elvis Cruz? What’s your thoughts on his skills?

Taylor: I’ve seen video and know he’s a heck of a fighter. He’s going to be way bigger than me and I will need to be better than I have ever been to beat him!

WILD BILL’S FIGHT NIGHT #44
THIS FRIDAY, MARCH 9
RACHEL SELTZER VS GIZELY ANDRADE!
CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS AT TICKETMASTER

This Friday night Atlanta’s Rachel Seltzer and New York’s Gizely Andrade will fight at Wild Bill’s as a rarity on several platforms. First, they are the only female fight at Wild Bill’s. Second, Rachel is Jewish which is a rarity amongst ALL fighters. And third, Gizely is half way through a PhD program in Neuroscience! Find me one other fighter that can say that!

GeorgiaFighters.com had the opportunity to speak to both fighters and here’s what they had to say only days before their fight Friday night at Wild Bill’s.

GIZELY ANDRADE

GeorgiaFighters.com: In the fight game, things often change in the final two weeks. Two weeks ago you didn’t have a fight scheduled, now you’re fighting in Atlanta Friday night. Why did you take this fight with only two weeks notice?
Gizely: I’ve been back at the gym training more seriously for a few months now and just wanted to jump on the first opportunity to get back in the ring. I told my coach I wanted to fight, we heard about this event, and so we took it.

GF: Rachel is going to be a couple inches taller than you. Is that something that you’re used to in your fights?
Gizely: I’m not that tall so I’m sure it won’t be the first time I fight someone who has a few inches on me!

GF: You’ve taken four years off from your last fight to this one. Why the time off and what have you been doing?
Gizely: I’ve taken the past couple of years off to concentrate on my studies. I graduated summa cum laude from an undergraduate honors program and am currently half way through a PhD program in Neuroscience– all while also teaching college courses, doing research, and acquiring clinical experience. You can see how it gets hard to squeeze fight training in!
 
GF: Have you been able to find out anything about Rachel? What do you think of her?
Gizely: We saw a highlight reel of her on YouTube. She seems like a strong fighter. Excited to meet her in the ring!

GF: With the success of the Strikeforce female fights on Showtime this past weekend, what does it mean to be a female fighting only a week later. Any added pressure?
Gizely: No extra pressure; I’m going to get in there and give it all I got! I am, however, happy that good female fighters are getting a more public platform to showcase their talent. This will hopefully lead to greater respect and legitimization (i.e. real fighting isn’t just for boys!).

GF: What’s your favorite part of a fight?
Gizely: Representing my gym, making my trainer proud, and getting to implement all the things I learn at Sitan… and, of course, the nice meal after weigh-ins!

RACHEL SELTZER

GeorgiaFighters.com: In the fight game, things often change in the final two weeks. Two weeks ago you were scheduled to fight a girl from Alabama, now it’s Gizely Andrade from New York. How has that changed your mindset?
Rachel: It hasn’t changed at all.  I train for every fight with everything I have. Harder and harder each and every time.  My goals get bigger so my training steps up. No matter who the opponent is, I train as if I’m fighting the best of the best.  Of course I look for opponents close to my experience and being a female its not always that easy to find.  Sometimes my opponent has more experience and sometimes I have more experience but its typically close either way. Also, it doesn’t hurt that I train with some of the best in Georgia.  So this prepares me for what is to come when I step into the ring whether its against an Alabama girl or New york chick. I’ll be ready.

GF: Your fight was scheduled for 125 lbs, now it’s 120 lbs. Is this 5 lb difference a big deal for you?
Rachel: Not really, As hard as i train the weight comes off.  I have fought the last two fights at 120lbs.  I change my eating a little and I’ll be ready to go and most likely 119 by weigh in day.  

GF: What have you been able to find out about your new opponent Gizely? Been able to view any videos on her?
Rachel: I don’t know much about her. There isn’t any video online..All I know is she has a black belt in taewkondo and won the WKA championship in 2005.  Shes also fought some impressive competition.  Her background has been taekwondoe since she was 11 years old.  I started at the ripe young age of 32.  Its what you put into it and what your mindset is that prepares you.  Watching video only helps a little. I’ve also been training with 4x world champion Moe Travis, who is about the same height as Gizely.  You won’t know what to expect until that bell rings. Just be ready to fight.

GF: This will be your first fight without headgear. Is that something you have been looking forward to?
Rachel: Yes!  Its time.  All fighters want to finish their opponents and I feel my last fight was close to being stopped after the second round, She took more then the allotted one minute rest and we didn’t think she was getting up.  I believe if we had not been wearing headgear I might of been able to finish by TKO.  Its also easier to see whats coming your way, better head movement without it and you look better in pictures without it. Ha!

GF: With the success of the Strikeforce female fights on Showtime this past weekend, what does it mean to be a female fighting only a week later. Any added pressure?
Rachel: I watched Tate Vs Rousey.  I actually slept thru the fights and happened to wake up as they started.  I also followed all the hype leading up to the fight and when Rousey got the arm bar, I actually got a little emotional. I know how good it must of felt for her to prove Tate wrong about her experience and not being worthy of the belt.  It pumps me up big time.  It was an impressive fight by both fighters and it motivates me and what I want to bring to the table Friday night. Maybe a little pressure being that my opponent has a couple accolades on her belt and more experience that I’ll need to really bring it and I am more then ready to do so.

GF: What’s your favorite part of a fight?
Rachel: When the ref raises my hand at the end and I get to go hug my corner.  I belong to the best fight family in Georgia, Knuckle UP Fitness.  Like I said, I train with some of Georgias best fighters.  If I can take a minute and I’d like to thank my KU family who pushes me daily and prepares me each and every time I step in the ring.  To my coaches and training partners, I would not be here if it wasn’t for you.  Philip Botha, Jeremy Wallace, Moe Travis, Dave Vitkay, Stephen Upchurch, Devorious Tubbs, Gui Curry, Ulli Pohl, CJ Wilson,Coach Lamar, The Matts , Max  St John Scupham, and everyone else who supports me.  Also, to the BEST FIGHT PROMOTER out there..David Oblas put in the hours trying to find me opponents.  We went thru quite a few before finally solidlly confirming one and I appreciate it more then he knows.  Without him too, I wouldn’t be on one of the greatest fight cards so far.  Thank you!! This fight means so much to me as I am dedicating this one to my big Sister, Alison Motel.  This is for you! Thank you Everyone!

WILD BILL’S FIGHT NIGHT #44
THIS FRIDAY, MARCH 9
DAVE VITKAY VS BRETT CHISM FOR GFC MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP!
CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS AT TICKETMASTER

You’ve been fighting MMA for years and probably have more fights than 90% of the fighters in Georgia. What does it mean to be fighting for the Georgia Fighters Championship (GFC) belt?

It always feels good to fight for a title. This will be my 6th year fighting and I have fought for alot of titles before but I think this will be one of the biggest ones of my career so far. Yea Ive had a ton of fights but so has Vitkay. Fight experience goes along way but no matter how many fights Ive had, I still get as nervous as the first time I stepped in the ring.

Last time you and Dave fought, you knocked him out in the first round. Do you expect similar results Friday night?

I always like to think I am going to knock my opponent out. But I am comfortable with where ever the fight goes. I am expecting a scrap. I haven’t watched the video of the last time we fought in probably over a year and really theres no need. I know its going to be a totally differant Vitkay in that ring than last time but hey, its going to be a totally differant Brett Chism in there too.

You haven’t fought in Atlanta in quite a long time. What does it mean to finally be fighting in front of your friends and family again?

I love it when I can fight in my home state. It gives me extra motivation when family and friends are in the audience and traveled a long ways to come watch. I know alot of my family and friends will be at this event traveling from Valdosta and Athens.

You fight out of town more than any other Atlanta fighter. Which do you enjoy more? Fighting in Atlanta or fighting out of state?

I feel more comfortable fighting in Atlanta because like I said before I know my family and friends are out there watching. I also like putting on a show for the home crowd. I always seem to put on my best preformances in Georgia and Wild Bills. Im an emotional fighter and the crowd at Wild Bills always seems to get me pumped.

Fighting in the main event of Wild Bill’s; what does that mean to you?

It’s a great experience. I have fought at Wild Bills 6 or 7 times now but have never been the main event. I have only lost once and I feel like I am at home when I fight there. Ive fought all over the United States but so far nothing beats the atmosphere at Wild Bills. Its electric.

What have you been focusing on in your training camp?

Since Ive made the move to HardCore gym a year ago we have been focusing alot on my ground game. Training camp hasnt been focused on one specific area, just becoming a more well rounded fighter. I feel confident anywhere the fight goes. I train with some of the best fighters in the state so I dont think he will throw anything at me that I havent seen.

You made your pro debut at Wild Bill’s. Do you feel you’re coming full circle by returning to Wild Bill’s in the main event for a title?

Yes its a big deal for me. When I made my pro debut at Wild Bills, Benard Rutherford was in the main event and I remember how pumped the crowd was and just the general atmosphere of the place. I remember standing there with my dad watching the fight and talking about how intimidating bernard looked and how it must have felt when the curtain came up and the crowd went crazy. Its a huge deal for me being in the main event at Wild Bills and it being for a title is just makes it that much better.

A couple years ago you were fighting at 205 lbs. Now you’ve been at 185 lbs. How has that made a difference and how did you get down in weight?

Actually Vitkay was my first fight at 185lbs. I never thought I could make that weight bc thats even way lighter than I wrestled at. The biggest thing was cleaning up my diet. Im a fat kid at heart. I love to eat. For me to make that weight I have to be in shape and I have to be on a strict diet for 6 to 8 weeks. Ralph Ospina has helped me alot with my diet for this training camp. Its actually been pretty easy. I usually walk around comfortably at 215lbs so the biggest thing was getting my weight down and keeping it down so I wont have so much to cut the week of the fight. Right now its looking like an easy cut.