Featured Post

Thank You, Axl Rotten (And R.I.P.)

Monday, December 24, 2012

Merry Christmas!

I live an amazing life, and, in part, it's because of you.

Though I rarely work on this site, being even remotely involved with it has afforded me opportunities I'd have never other experienced.

Whether or not Christmas is your thing, I hope that everyone takes some time to appreciate and celebrate what they have, including and especially their loved ones.

Long after our cell phones/Twitter/Facebook/etc, stop being important, it is those people who will continue to bring us joy and are truly what's important.

Yes, even more important than Ronald McDonald's bottom line.

Friday, December 21, 2012

Vale Tudo Japan Returns On December 24th, 2012

(((IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 21st, 2012)))

Only 3 more days until the legendary Vale Tudo Japan event goes down with an unbelievable fight card. The event will take place on December 24th at the Yoyogi National Gymnasium live on SkyperfectTV.

In the main event, SHOOTO legend Rumina Sato battles DREAM bantamweight favorite, Hideo Tokoro. To add to the excitement, viewers will also see 3 "JAPAN vs USA" bouts. Current SHOOTO welterweight champion and former UFC fighter, Kuniyoshi Hironaka (20-8), will be taking on UFC veteran Carlo Prater (30-12-1) in a highly anticipated lightweight matchup. Long time SHOOTO veteran Mamoru Yamaguchi (26-6-3) will be representing Japan in a flyweight showdown against the USA’s Darrell Montague (11-2). The number 1 SHOOTO prospect, 23 year old Kyoji Horiguchi (8-1), will take on UFC veteran and current Tachi Palace Fight champion, Ian Loveland (16-9).

About VTJ

What was previously held as an annual mixed martial competition from 1994-1999 in Japan, VTJ has become a legendary event that helped pave the way for modern MMA. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu legend Rickson Gracie was dominant in his tournament victories during the first two years of competition and helped put the sport on the mainstream map. The legendary tournament returns with VTJ 1st, which will have all matchups take place inside of a cage rather than the traditional ring.

Featured bouts:
Takeshi Inoue (21-6) vs Kenji Osawa (18-10-2)
Megumi Fujii (25-2) vs Mei Yamguchi (10-4-1)
Keita Nakamura (24-5-2) vs Nobutatsu Suzuki (9-0-2)
Daisuke Hoshio (7-6) vs Kuntap Weerasakreck (0-1)

For more information visit http://www.vtj1st.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vtj.inspirit.kashiwagi?ref=hl

SOURCE: Vale Tudo Japan

Friday, December 7, 2012

DREAM 18 NEW YEAR’S EVE MMA MATCHUPS ANNOUNCED

SHINYA AOKI FACES ANTONIO MCKEE
BIBIANO FERNANDES BATTLES YOSHIRO MAEDA
MELVIN MANHOEF SQUARES OFF WITH DENIS KANG

TOKYO, Japan (Dec. 7, 2012) - DREAM Lightweight (155 pounds/70 kilograms) Champion Shinya Aoki (31-6) will face battle-tested wrestling specialist Antonio McKee (28-4-2) at the DREAM Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) event at Saitama Super Arena on New Year’s Eve.

The matchup was announced today by officials from DREAM and Glory Sports International, which is presenting the year-end show along with the GLORY 4 Tokyo – Heavyweight Grand Slam event.

Also announced was a middleweight (185 pounds/84 kilograms) fight between Melvin Manhoef (26-9-1, 1 NC) and Denis Kang (35-15-2, 2 NC) and a 139-pound catchweight meeting between former DREAM bantamweight (135 pounds/61 kilograms) champion Bibiano Fernandes (12-3) and Yoshiro Maeda (30-11-2) of Japan.

“Shinya Aoki is already a legend in mixed martial arts. His jiu jitsu and judo skills are just incredible and we are delighted to have him on the card for DREAM 18. The Saitama Super Arena is his home and the greatest matches of his career have been fought there. We expect another epic encounter on New Year’s Eve when he faces UFC veteran Antonio McKee,” said GLORY CEO Marcus Luer.

“With Melvin Manhoef and Denis Kang, we have a fight where the fans cannot afford to blink - there is so much power and skill in that fight that it is very, very unlikely to go the distance. And the fight between Bibiano Fernandes and Yoshiro Maeda will be a whirlwind, technical master class. Fernandes is one of the world’s top ten bantamweights while Maeda is as tough as they come. All the DREAM 18 fights are absolutely world class and we are very excited about them.”

Known as Tobikan Judan (‘Master of Flying Attacks’), Aoki is a grappling prodigy. An incredible 20 of his 31 career wins have been by way of submission and his victories include wins over Rich Clementi, Joachim Hansen and Eddie Alvarez. He has a ruthless killer instinct, exemplified by his breaking the arm of Mizuto Hirota at a 2009 New Year’s Eve event in the Saitama Super Arena.

McKee has fought for the UFC, the IFL and top Canadian promotion MFC in a career spanning 12 years. Only four fighters have ever managed to beat him, and three of those - Karo Parisyan, Jacob Volkmann and Chris Brennan – have also competed amongst the upper echelon of fighters in the UFC and PRIDE FC. McKee was set to fight Aoki at DREAM: Fight for Japan last May, but the bout fell through because of visa issues.

The Dutch dynamo Manhoef needs little introduction to fight fans in Japan or anywhere else. A huge fan favorite, Manhoef’s power and highly aggressive style combine to ensure that his fights rarely go the distance. He is one of only two men to ever stop Mark Hunt with strikes and he also has a win over Japanese legend Kazushi Sakuraba.

French-Korean middleweight Kang won a ‘Fight of the Night’ award for his clash with Michael Bisping in the UFC. A second-degree Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt, Kang’s honors include being a finalist in the PRIDE FC Welterweight Grand Prix and winning a title in leading Korean promotion Spirit MC. He has wins over Murilo ‘Ninja’ Rua and Akihiro Gono.

Fernandes won the 2009 DREAM Featherweight Grand Prix to become the organization’s first featherweight champion. After losing the belt to Hiroyuki Takaya, he moved down to bantamweight and won the DREAM Bantamweight Grand Prix.

Maeda has competed for many of the best organizations in the world, including PRIDE FC, DREAM, WEC, Pancrase and DEEP. He fought for the WEC bantamweight title against Miguel Torres at WEC 34 and holds wins over Chase Beebe and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu expert Micah Miller among others. He was also a quarter-finalist in the DREAM Featherweight Grand Prix.

‘GSI presents DREAM 18 and GLORY 4 Tokyo - New Year's Eve Special’ - will commence at 4 p.m. JST with the DREAM 18 card and continue with the GLORY 4 Tokyo - Heavyweight Grand Slam, a one-night, 16-man, single-elimination tournament featuring the world’s top heavyweight stand-up fighters, including Semmy Schilt (39-6, 18 KO’s), Gokhan Saki (77-15, 53 KO’s), Daniel Ghita (44-7, 34 KO’s), Remy Bonjasky (77-14, 40 KO’s), Peter Aerts (104-30-1, 78 KO’s), Errol Zimmerman (76-16-1, 41 KO’s), Anderson ‘Braddock’ Silva (32-8-1, 22 KO’s) and Sergei Kharitonov (22-7, 12 KO’s).

The winner of the heavyweight tournament will take home a Grand Prize of $400,000, and a total of $600,000 in prize money will be awarded to tournament participants.

For more information, visit www.gloryworldseries.com.

About DREAM:

Japan’s premier MMA organisation, DREAM has staged 23 top-class events in the course of its four-year history. Fighters that have stepped into the DREAM ring include Fedor Emelianenko, Gegard Mousasi, Shinya Aoki, Joachim Hansen, Melvin Manhoef, Tatsuya Kawajiri, Eddie Alvarez, Todd Duffee, Gesias Calvancante, Marius Zaromskis.

About GLORY:

The GLORY World Series (www.gloryworldseries.com) is the world's premier kickboxing, or stand-up fighting league, staging events across the globe and offering up to $1,000,000 in prize money to the winners of 16-man ‘Grand Prix’ tournaments, which are open to only the best fighters in each weight class. The fight series also includes 8-man tournaments and events with traditional, single bouts.

With television deals spanning every continent, plus a groundbreaking online video streaming system and the world's largest online martial arts library, GLORY is one of the world's most widely-broadcast sporting organizations.

Owned and operated by Glory Sports International (GSI), the organization has offices in Holland, the UK, Tokyo, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore. Its personnel includes a diverse mix of award-winning hedge-fund and private equity investors; principals from pioneering sports marketing agency Total Sport Asia; and senior level executives from several leading sports franchises, including WWE, FIFA, Golden Glory, Champions League and It's Showtime.

SOURCE: Glory Sports International

Tuesday, December 4, 2012

And People Actually Wonder Why Ric Flair Hasn't Been Offered A WWE Return

I know it sounds crazy, but maybe, just maybe, it's because of stuff like this (courtesy of Charlotte's WBTV).

Thursday, November 22, 2012

Happy Thanksgiving!

If you're in the US, enjoy your holiday and, whatever you decide to do, please, be safe.

Remember, too, that today is about appreciating what you have, not about your place in line at a retail store or how much you can save on merchandise.

I'd tell you that, come tomorrow, I'm returning to regular posting, but, c'mon, we both know that, around here, it's always Thanksgiving (or Christmas, or New Year's, or some holiday).

Monday, November 19, 2012

FremantleMedia Enterprises Gets Into The Ring With WWE®

Major Distribution Agreement Announced

LONDON & NEW YORK, Nov 19, 2012 -- FremantleMedia Enterprises (FME) today announced a major new distribution agreement with WWE (NYSE:WWE) for the exclusive home entertainment rights to WWE’s catalogue of programming across Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA).

The deal goes into effect in January of 2013 and will see FME manage the DVD, Blu-ray and digital rights for all new and existing WWE content, making it the first time that fans of WWE’s popular programming can access it digitally across EMEA. Some of the new titles that will be released include Night of Champions 2012, Hell in a Cell 2012, Top 100 Raw Moments, Attitude Era and WrestleMania 29.

WWE is a recognized leader in global entertainment. The company consists of a portfolio of businesses that create and deliver original content 52 weeks a year to a global audience. WWE is committed to family-friendly entertainment on its television programming, pay-per-view, digital media and publishing platforms. WWE programming is broadcast in more than 145 countries and 30 languages and reaches more than 600 million homes worldwide.

Pete Kalhan, SVP Home Entertainment & Archive EMEA, FME, commented, “WWE is an incredibly strong and ever-growing brand with a huge and extremely dedicated global fan base. The brand has a rich history and has performed exceptionally well on DVD for many years. We look forward to working with WWE to grow all aspects of their home entertainment catalogue and are particularly excited about introducing the content to the masses across EMEA via digital platforms.”

“WWE is pleased to partner with FremantleMedia Enterprises on the digital and retail distribution of our content in EMEA,” said Casey Collins, Executive Vice President, Consumer Products for WWE. “FME’s broad retail reach will allow us to place more WWE content across all channels where our fans shop.”

ABOUT FREMANTLEMEDIA ENTERPRISES & FREMANTLEMEDIA

FremantleMedia is one of the leading creators and producers of television entertainment brands in the world. FremantleMedia is part of RTL Group, the leading European entertainment network, which is in turn 92 percent owned by the international media company Bertelsmann. FremantleMedia’s worldwide production arm is responsible for many of the world’s highest rated prime time entertainment, drama, serial drama and factual entertainment programmes. FremantleMedia Enterprises is the brand extension arm of FremantleMedia, offering a one-stop-shop for all Licensing, Distribution and Home Entertainment around the world. The FremantleMedia Group (which includes FremantleMedia North America, UFA, FremantleMedia UK, FremantleMedia Australia, Ludia, @radical.media and Original Productions, amongst others) has operations in 22 countries, one of the most comprehensive global networks, creating over 9,200 hours of programming a year, rolling out more than 60 formats and managing over 300 individual titles. FremantleMedia has some of the world’s most sought after and long running formats in its catalogue, and globally, produces such programmes as: Idols (co-produced with 19 Productions in the US), Hole In The Wall, Got Talent (co-produced with Syco in the UK and the US), The X Factor (co-produced with Syco in the UK and the US), Take Me Out, Family Feud, The Price is Right, Farmer Wants A Wife, Gute Zeiten Schlechte Zeiten, and Neighbours.

www.fremantlemedia.com

ABOUT WWE

WWE, a publicly traded company (NYSE: WWE), is an integrated media organization and recognized leader in global entertainment. The company consists of a portfolio of businesses that create and deliver original content 52 weeks a year to a global audience. WWE is committed to family-friendly entertainment on its television programming, pay-per-view, digital media and publishing platforms. WWE programming is broadcast in more than 145 countries and 30 languages and reaches more than 600 million homes worldwide. The company is headquartered in Stamford, Conn., with offices in New York, Los Angeles, Miami, London, Mumbai, Shanghai, Singapore, Istanbul and Tokyo.

Additional information on WWE (NYSE: WWE) can be found at wwe.com and corporate.wwe.com. For information on our global activities, go to http://www.wwe.com/worldwide/.

SOURCE: WWE

Friday, November 16, 2012

Tattoo Artist Files Lawsuit Claiming That THQ Stole His Artwork In UFC Undisputed 3

Phoenix, Arizona - November 16, 2012 - Chris Escobedo, the owner of Elite Tattoo, has filed a lawsuit in the United States District Court of Arizona for copyright infringement against THQ, Inc., the makers of the hit mixed martial arts ("MMA") video games UFC Undisputed and UFC Undisputed 3. Escobedo, who is represented by Maria Crimi Speth of Jaburg|Wilk in the lawsuit, tattooed a large lion on the side of Carlos Condit, the current interim welterweight champion of the UFC. The lion tattoo was Escobedo's original creation, and was then re-drawn by THQ's animators for use in the video games. Escobedo did not authorize the copying of his original artwork.

"I would not have agreed to the recreation of the tattoo by an animator," says Escobedo, who explains that if he had been approached by THQ to license the tattoo, at a minimum he would have insisted on approving the artwork and being fairly compensated.

"People often believe that they own the images that are tattooed on them by tattoo artists," explains Speth. "In reality, the owner of the tattoo artwork is the creator of the work, unless there is a written assignment of the copyright in the tattoo art." Escobedo and Condit never had a written agreement. Thus, claims Escobedo in the lawsuit, he remains the owner of the copyright over the image he drew.

Carlos Condit is not the first celebrity to find himself in a dispute over his tattoo. Mike Tyson's facial tattoo was used without permission of the tattoo artist on a character in the movie The Hangover II. The tattoo artist filed a lawsuit, which was settled for an undisclosed amount, but not before a California District Court judge ruled that there was a likelihood of success on the merits of his case for unauthorized copying of the tattoo.

These cases are an important reminder to celebrities that if they want to own their tattoos, they must ask for a written assignment of the copyright from the tattoo artist. Otherwise, what they have paid for is merely a license to display the image on their body. This license, according to Speth, does not include the right to give third parties (such as video game developers or movie producers) permission to copy and commercialize the image.

For information contact Maria Crimi Speth at mcs@jaburgwilk.com, 602.248.1000 or click here to view the lawsuit.

SOURCE: Jaburg & Wilk, P.C.

Thursday, November 15, 2012

Ric's Quick Bits: Bellator's Season-Six Middleweight Champ Opens Website

Maiquel Falcão, who, with his well-traveled record of 31-4-1, is no stranger to fans of Bellator Fighting Championships or the UFC, has officially launched his website, available in English, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Falcão is still awaiting word on when he and Alexander Shlemenko (Bellator's Season-Five middleweight champ) will meet for Bellator's Middleweight crown, vacated by Hector Lombard when he signed with the UFC.

I should soon have more on that bout (including a look at how Falcão is training for Shlemenko).

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

World Of Sport Wrestling Arrives On iTunes

Telecommunication Entrepreneur Acquires Cult British Wrestling Television Program and Numerous Wrestling Intellectual Property

Hertfordshire, UK -- 4 October 2012

Telecommunication entrepreneur John Chapman officially announces the launch of WOS Wrestling® programming on iTunes.

The iconic British World of Sport Wrestling television program ran from 1965 until 1988, attaining British television audiences of up to 18 million during its peak. The program has since attained a cult status both in Great Britain and overseas.

The first iTunes episodes, which are for the first time digitally re-mastered, include British wrestling legends Big Daddy, Clive Myers, Fuji Yamada, Giant Haystacks, Kendo Nagasaki, Mark “Rollerball” Rocco, Mick McManus, Steven Logan, and Young David.

WOS Wrestling Ltd (UK) and WOS Wrestling Inc (Delaware, USA), both owned by Chapman, recently attained an exclusive contract with iTunes S.a.r.l to provide British wrestling programming. Chapman acquired the rights to the World of Sport Wrestling television programs from ITV plc, and purchased substantial British wrestling intellectual property from the Crown of Great Britain. The purchase gives Chapman earliest rights on numerous wrestling intellectual property.

About John Chapman:

John Chapman is a 35 year old British telecommunication entrepreneur. In 2007 he became a Vodafone board member, overseeing Vodafone UK’s voicemail and email platforms. In 2009, Chapman became the Managing Director of Telpla Ltd and Telpla Inc, maintaining telecommunication platforms for companies that include Vodafone.

In May 2012 Chapman successfully sued wrestling promoter Dale Gagner in the Dakota County District Court, Minnesota (Court File Number: 19HA-CV-11-6060). Chapman’s lawyers successfully proved to the court that Gagner had fraudulently misrepresented to Chapman license of the American Wrestling Association (AWA) intellectual property in 2005.

Additional information on WOS Wrestling can be found at wos.tv

Additional information on Telpla can be found at telpla.com

Additional information on John Chapman can be found at linkedin.com/in/johndavidchapman

© 1952-2012 WOS Wrestling Ltd. All rights reserved. WOS, World of Sport and the WOS logo are registered trademarks of WOS Wrestling Ltd. WOS Wrestling Ltd UK company number number 07393109. WOS Wrestling UK V.A.T number 100788726. WOS Wrestling Inc Delaware USA company number 5089081.

SOURCE: WOS Wrestling Ltd

Friday, September 14, 2012

TheTOEvent - The Lance Armstrong Foundation/SickKids Foundation Fundraiser Unveiling Party

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Friday, Sept. 21, 8:30 pm Fiction Club 180 Pearl St. Toronto, Ontario
TheTOEvent is an inaugural event in support people affected by cancer. Come see the unveiling of a one-of-a-kind LIVESTRONG® Edition MV Agusta from the F4RR to be auctioned on Ebay to benefit the Lance Armstrong Foundation and SickKids.

Since the original concept was approved, the fundraiser has received a lot of support in addition to a $32,000 Italian super bike which can be seen at www.thetoevent.com following the unveiling.

TheTOEvent has partnered with TapouT, the premiere MMA apparel brand Co-founders Dan Caldwell aka Punkass and Tim Katz aka Sky Skrape to create and unveil custom “TapouT” branded motorcycles previously. Dan Caldwell (PunkAss) will be on hand to assist with the unveil.

Argon 18, one of the world’s finest road racing bicycle manufacturers and sponsor of the only Canadian Pro cycling team SpiderTech is also on board and has donated a $10,000 E-116 road racing bicycle to be unveiled and auctioned as well.

The final piece to this event was to have FlatOut Industries design and develop a generation 2 illuminated skateboard that would far exceed the performance and technology used in the board they made for Justin Bieber’s Christmas present last year from his father.

The unveiling of these exclusive items will take place @ 8:30 pm on September 21st at Fiction Club, 180 Pearl Street, Toronto. This event will be hosted by “Ring Girl” Brittney Palmer with special guests Dan Caldwell (PunkAss) , Canadian cycling icon Steve Bauer (Olympic and World Championship medalist, 14 time yellow jersey victor in the Tour de France). These items will go online via Ebay auction commencing at the end of October culminating with the final wrap up party on November 7, 2012 at a location in Toronto to be announced.

The celebrity guest list will be announced on Twitter. Follow @TheTOEvent for the lastest news & info.

www.thetoevent.com

About TapouT

Founded in 1997, TapouT was the first apparel brand to represent the sport of MMA. Since then, TapouT has become synonymous with the sport and is the most recognized MMA apparel brand in the world with professional athletes and fans alike wearing TapouT as a badge of honor symbolizing the brand’s never quit fighting spirit.

About the Lance Armstrong Foundation

The Lance Armstrong Foundation serves people affected by cancer and empowers them to take action against the world’s leading cause of death. With its iconic yellow LIVESTRONG® wristband, the Foundation became a symbol of hope and inspiration to people affected by cancer throughout the world. Created in 1997 by cancer survivor and champion cyclist Lance Armstrong, the Foundation provides free patient navigation services to survivors with financial, emotional and practical challenges that accompany the disease. Known for its powerful brand— LIVESTRONG® —the Foundation is also a leader in the global movement on behalf of 28 million people living with cancer today. Since its inception in 1997, the Foundation has raised nearly $500 million for the fight against cancer. For more information, visit LIVESTRONG.org.

SKF

Our mission: We inspire our communities to invest in health and scientific advances to improve the lives of children and their families in Canada and around the world. Our vision: Healthier Children. A Better World.™ Established in 1972, SickKids Foundation raises funds on behalf of The Hospital for Sick Children. The Foundation's fundraising is driven by the belief that improving the health and well-being of children is one of the most powerful ways to improve society. Community support, separate and distinct from government and granting agencies, is a critical source of funding for SickKids. In the fiscal year that ended March 31, 2012, SickKids Foundation invested $61.3 million - $59.3 million of that investment went to critical initiatives at SickKids and $2 million went to national, international and other initiatives

FlatOut Industries

FlatOut Industries was founded in 2004 by Sean Mance, who started the business after noticing a legitimate lack of options for the custom automotive and motorcycle market in Canada. Since the business specialized in one of a kind, custom designed CNC machined parts that were available nowhere else on the planet…the customer list grew quickly and so did their reputation. FlatOut Industries has always grown their branding through their innovative concepts and products. From the Adidas World Cup motorcycle, to the custom ATVs for the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, to the custom private builds…the passion and ideas from FlatOut Industries show no sign of slowing down.

SOURCE: www.thetoevent.com

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Chael Sonnen Is Something Of A Human-Crystal-Ball ... Only In Reverse

Shortly before UFC 148 (where Anderson Silva successfully defended his Middleweight crown by once again finishing Chael Sonnen), Sonnen delivered the following gem: “I’m gonna walk out there, and as soon as I get the chance, I’m gonna wait for him to throw a kick like he always does, I’m gonna put my forehead in his chest, run him into that cage, put him on his prissy little ass and run this (raises fist) into his head for 25 minutes until he gives up. That’s my prediction.”

Well, it's a new day, and a fresh attempt for Sonnen to stay relevant. Sonnen's take on the upcoming UFC 151 headliner between Dan Henderson and Jon Jones: “Jones is a talented kid, but he’s taking on a man, and I’d bet on the man any day of the week.”

What have we learned? Bet the farm on Jones finishing Henderson before the end of the second round.

Monday, August 20, 2012

Card Update: Bellator Fighting Championships 79

Casino Rama
Rama, Ontario, Canada
Friday, November 2, 2012
Prelims: Live on spike.com @ 7 PM ET
Main Card: EpixHD & MTV2 @8 PM ET
Lineup subject to change


TELEVISED
* Eduardo Dantas vs. ??? - Bantamweight title
* Paul Daley vs. ??? - welterweights
* Ryan Ford vs. ??? - welterweights

Tuesday, August 7, 2012

RF Video Presents A Special Apperance By WWE Hall Of Famer EDGE!!!

Get the opportunity to meet the "Rated R Superstar" Adam Copeland (formerly known as EDGE) and Tommy Dreamer on Sunday October 7, 2012 at Dave and Busters Restaurant located at (325 North Columbus Boulevard Philadelphia, PA). For more information on Dave and Busters visit www.daveandbusters.com

**Pre-order now to guarantee tickets to meet EDGE and/or Tommy Dreamer on October 7th!**

Pre-order now by sending payments via PayPal to feinsteind@aol.com or you can mail in a check/money order to: RF Video, PO BOX 797, Langhorne PA 19047.

WWE Hall of Famer Adam Copeland (Formerly known as EDGE)
2:00pm - 5:00pm

*You must purchase a combo to meet EDGE Combo (One Autograph & One Photo Op) $100

Extra Autograph with Combo $40

Extra Photo Op with Combo $40

"Innovator of Violence" Tommy Dreamer
2:00pm - 5:00pm

One Photo Op $15

One Autograph $15

Combo $25

Pre-order now by sending payments via PayPal to feinsteind@aol.com or you can mail in a check/money order to: RF Video, PO BOX 797, Langhorne PA 19047.

We look forward to seeing everyone on October 7th!

SOURCE: RF Video

Monday, June 25, 2012

ION Television Debuts WWE Main Event

STAMFORD, Conn., Jun 25, 2012 -- WWE (NYSE: WWE) and ION Television today announced a new weekly one-hour original series airing on Wednesday nights at 8/7C. WWE Main Event will debut on October 3, 2012, and feature WWE Superstars and Divas from the rosters of Monday Night Raw and Friday Night SmackDown. The new show will be available in 100 million U.S. television households on ION Television, a top-rated general entertainment network that features a broad mix of critically acclaimed series, movies and original programming.

“ION Television is delighted to begin a new partnership with such a successful and well-recognized franchise as WWE,” said Brandon Burgess, CEO, ION Media Networks. “As a general entertainment network with a solid foundation, WWE Main Event is a great addition to our lineup that features something for everyone. We look forward to introducing our ION audience to all of the excitement and drama WWE has to offer as well as welcoming a passionate new fan base to the network.”

“WWE looks forward to this new partnership with ION Television,” said Vince McMahon, WWE Chairman and CEO. “We are excited about producing this new television show, WWE Main Event, and bringing our fans to ION Television every Wednesday.”

WWE Main Event will feature in-ring action and fit seamlessly in storylines from Monday Night Raw and Friday Night SmackDown, making Wednesday night appointment viewing for fans. The new series will offer a big arena experience with live audiences like current WWE weekly programs.

About WWE:

WWE, a publicly traded company (NYSE: WWE), is an integrated media organization and recognized leader in global entertainment. The company consists of a portfolio of businesses that create and deliver original content 52 weeks a year to a global audience. WWE is committed to family friendly entertainment on its television programming, pay-per-view, digital media and publishing platforms. WWE programming is broadcast in more than 145 countries and 30 languages and reaches more than 600 million homes worldwide. The company is headquartered in Stamford, Conn., with offices in New York, Los Angeles, Miami, London, Mumbai, Shanghai, Singapore, Istanbul and Tokyo.

Additional information on WWE (NYSE: WWE) can be found at wwe.com and corporate.wwe.com. For information on our global activities, go to http://www.wwe.com/worldwide/.

About ION Television:

ION Television is a leading U.S. general entertainment network, combining high-quality programming and dependable broadcast distribution with an attitude of innovation and growth normally associated with a cable channel. Its "Positively Entertaining" network brand positioning features a formula of proven series, an expansive catalog of blockbuster movies and a commitment to introduce new original programming. Since its recent launch in 2008, ION’s reach has grown to 100 million households and has become one of the top-15 TV rated U.S. networks in record time. For more information, visit www.iontelevision.com.

Trademarks: All WWE programming, talent names, images, likenesses, slogans, wrestling moves, trademarks, logos and copyrights are the exclusive property of WWE and its subsidiaries. All other trademarks, logos and copyrights are the property of their respective owners.

Forward-Looking Statements: This press release contains forward-looking statements pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are subject to various risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, risks relating to maintaining and renewing key agreements, including television and pay-per-view programming distribution agreements; the need for continually developing creative and entertaining programming; the continued importance of key performers and the services of Vincent McMahon; the conditions of the markets in which we compete and acceptance of the Company's brands, media and merchandise within those markets; our exposure to bad debt risk; uncertainties relating to regulatory and litigation matters; risks resulting from the highly competitive nature of our markets; uncertainties associated with international markets; the importance of protecting our intellectual property and complying with the intellectual property rights of others; risks associated with producing and travelling to and from our large live events, both domestically and internationally; the risk of accidents or injuries during our physically demanding events; risks relating to our film business; risks relating to increasing content production for distribution on various platforms, including the potential creation of a WWE Network; risks relating to our computer systems and online operations; risks relating to the large number of shares of common stock controlled by members of the McMahon family and the possibility of the sale of their stock by the McMahons or the perception of the possibility of such sales; the relatively small public float of our stock; and other risks and factors set forth from time to time in Company filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results could differ materially from those currently expected or anticipated. In addition, our dividend is dependent on a number of factors, including, among other things, our liquidity and historical and projected cash flow, strategic plan (including alternative uses of capital), our financial results and condition, contractual and legal restrictions on the payment of dividends, general economic and competitive conditions and such other factors as our Board of Directors may consider relevant.

SOURCE: WWE

Thursday, June 21, 2012

FIRST WORLD CUP OF MIXED MARTIAL ARTS TO BE HELD AT FOXWOODS MGM GRAND

On Saturday, September 15, Foxwoods MGM Grand will be hosting the first ever World Cup of Mixed Martial Arts™ as WCMMA™ Team Portugal challenges WCMMA™ Team USA.

Ledyard, CT, June 21, 2012 -- The World Cup of Mixed Martial Arts™ (WCMMA™), is pleased to announce that Foxwoods Resort and Casinos' MGM Grand will be hosting the first ever World Cup competition in Mixed Martial Arts.

On Saturday, September 15, Foxwoods MGM Grand will be hosting the first ever World Cup of Mixed Martial Arts™ as WCMMA™ Team Portugal challenges WCMMA™ Team USA. These two teams will be facing each other in an International Battle Challenge where nations from around the world face one another in efforts to acquire enough points that will earn them an invitation to the WCMMA™ World Cup Championships in 2017 in ROME, Italy. Foxwoods is the first step in the "WCMMA's Road to Rome 2017™".

"I've seen many mixed martial art events, but when it comes to Nation vs Nation competition, that truly transcends anything we have seen, especially when it's for Mixed Martial Arts' very own World Cup. The stakes don't get any higher," said Dan Severn former MMA Super Fight World Champion, and Professional Wrestling Champion.

"The WCMMA™ is the next level in Mixed Martial Arts. Now we're going to begin to see which countries are producing the best MMA Athletes overall," said Don Wilson former seven time Kickboxing World Champion and Action Film Star.

Also that same evening the WCMMA's™ Heavyweight World Title will be on the line as Russian National Sambo Champion Alexey Oleinik will be facing two time FILA Grappling World Champion, Kelly Anundson of the United States.

The undercard of these two featured events will showcase up and coming MMA Athletes who are vying for an opportunity to challenge for a spot on WCMMA™ Team USA.

The event is being held at Foxwoods MGM Grand, the undercard will begin at 7:00 P.M. (EST), with Portugal vs USA starting promptly at 8:30 P.M. (EST) and the Super Heavy Weight World Title is scheduled for 10:00 P.M. For Tickets visit: FOXWOODS.com, or Call 800-200-2882. For more information visit: WorldCupofMixedMartialArts.com.

About World Cup of Mixed Martial Arts™

The WCMMA™ is an international team orientated mixed martial arts organization that produces nation vs nation mixed martial art competition, along with individual title matches. The WCMMA™ every four years holds MMA's very own World Cup Championships, the highest honor in team sports. An invitation to this prestigious event is based on national teams who are successful in qualifying for the honor. National teams qualify by accumulating enough points in international World Cup competition over a four year cycle as they face other national teams.

In addition to producing events the WCMMA™ sets itself apart from many other organization. The WCMMA™ also sanctions events and helps assist qualified independent promoters in their efforts of growing the sport. The WCMMA™ also offers exclusive WCMMA™ franchises to respective nations competing within the circuit, and assist them on building their respective franchise through licensing, television, merchandising, and talent acquisition.

The WCMMA™ is headquartered in Rome, Italy, and with offices in Boca Raton, Florida, and Bronx, New York.

SOURCE: World Cup of Mixed Martial Arts

Thursday, June 7, 2012

INVICTA FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIPS PARTNERS WITH JAPANESE PROMOTION JEWELS TO CROSS-PROMOTE WORLD’S TOP WOMEN MMA FIGHTERS

JEWELS CHAMPION AKAYA HAMASAKI TO FACE UNDEFEATED AUSTRIAN JASMINKA CIVE AT INVICTA EVENT JULY 28 IN KANSAS CITY

OLYMPIC SILVER MEDALIST AND UNDEFEATED MMA STAR SARA MCMANN TO FACE OFF WITH BATTLE-TESTED SUBMISSION EXPERT SHAYNA BASZLER IN MAIN EVENT

TICKETS ON SALE NOW



KANSAS CITY, Kan. (June 7, 2012) – Invicta Fighting Championships and Japan-based JEWELS announced today that the two women’s Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) promotions have formed a strategic partnership to cross-promote the world’s top female fighters on their respective fight cards in The United States and Japan.

As part of the new alliance, JEWELS champion Akaya Hamasaki (7-0) of Yamaguchi, Japan will head to Kansas City, Kan. to square off with fellow undefeated star Jasminka “Impressive” Cive (5-0) of Graz, Styria Austria in a flyweight (115 pounds) matchup at Invicta FC 2: McMann vs. Baszler at Memorial Hall on Sat., July 28.

Hamasaki is one of two fighters from the JEWELS roster who will do battle on the Invicta card. The other, Hitomi “Girlfight Monster” Akano (18-9) of Tokyo, will square off with Japanese Jiu-Jitsu black belt and Cesar Gracie-protégé Alexis Davis (11-5) of Colborne, Ontario Canada at bantamweight (135 pounds) in the co-main event.

“We are excited to enter this partnership with JEWELS, which was essentially founded with the same goal of placing professional women’s MMA competition, at its highest level, on a major stage,” said Invicta President Shannon Knapp. “This relationship with an overseas promotion will effectively make it more turnkey for us to bring in some of the best women fighters in the world to compete in the Invicta cage and to send our top athletes to Japan to compete at JEWELS events.

"We are very honored and extremely excited about this partnership with Invicta Fighting Championships,” said JEWELS President Yuichi Ozono. “We appreciate the opportunity that Invicta Fighting Championships is extending to our fighters, including the current JEWELS champion Ayaka Hamasaki and Pro Elite and Strikeforce veteran Hitomi Akano.  We are excited to be able to collaborate and cooperate with Invicta Fighting Championships to achieve our common goal, which is to promote the appeal of women's Mixed Martial Arts."

The 30-year-old Hamasaki, a second-degree Judo black belt, has been tearing through the ranks of competitors in Japan since she made her professional debut on Oct. 25, 2009, submitting Kinuka Sasaki with an armbar in the second round of their matchup.

On Dec. 17, 2010, Hamasaki emerged the winner of a four-woman, single-elimination tournament, earning a unanimous decisions over Sakura Nomura and Seo Hee Ham, respectively. Hamasaki is coming off a first-round submission (kimura) win over Yuka Tsuji at a JEWELS event.

Also 30 years of age, Cive has yet to be taken the distance of a professional fight, winning four of her five career starts by way of KO or TKO and one of her bouts by submission. She has made a name for herself outside of MMA, winning championships in Muay Thai and K-1 rules kickboxing competition.

In her last effort on March 17, Cive scored a third round TKO with a barrage of punches on Eva Henesova in Vaduz, Liechtenstein.

Tickets for Invicta FC 2: McMann vs. Baszler, priced from $25, are available for purchase at Memorial Hall box office (913) 549-4853), online at Ticketmaster.com and InvictaFC.com and by phone at (800) 745-3000.

In the bantamweight main event, 2004 Olympic Wrestling Silver Medalist and undefeated MMA star Sara McMann (5-0) of Gaffney, SC. and battle-tested submission wizard Shayna “The Queen of Spades” Baszler (14-6) of Sioux Falls, SD.

In other main card action, U.S. Marine and rising bantamweight star Liz “Girl-rilla” Carmouche (6-2) of San Diego, Calif. will square off with St. Louis Park, Minnesota’s Kaitlin Young (7-5-1), who earned “Fight of the Night” honors at the inaugural Invicta event on April 28.

Hard-hitting KO artist Amanda Nunes (6-2) of Salvador, Bahia Brazil will make her Invicta debut against sensational finisher Milana Dudieva (8-1) of Vladikavkaz, North Ossetia Russia in a bantamweight battle.

Kelly Kobold (18-3-1) of St. Paul, Minn. will face off with streaking submission expert Vanessa Porto (14-4) of Sao Paulo, Brazil at bantamweight.

American prospects Barb “Little Warrior” Honchak (5-2) of East Moline, Ill. and undefeated Bethany Marshall (4-0) of Newport News, Va. will meet in a super flyweight (125 pounds) matchup.

Julia “The Jewel” Budd (2-2) of Port Moody, British Columbia Canada will face Elina Nilsson (2-2) of Gothenburg, Sweden at featherweight (145 pounds).

In the opening main card bout, Jiu-Jitsu champion and former high school wrestling star Carla Esparza (6-2) of Redondo Beach, Calif. will square off with Sarah “White Tiger” Schneider (6-5) of Kansas City, Mo. in a flyweight tilt.

The Invicta event will kick off with a five-bout preliminary card. In a bantamweight matchup between two undefeated future stars, Sarah Moras (2-0) of Kelowna, British Columbia Canada will face Raquel Pennington (1-0) of Colorado Springs, Colo.

After compiling a 5-2 record under amateur status, 25-year-old Jessamyn “The Gun” Duke (0-0) will make her much-anticipated professional debut against unbeaten 30-year-old Suzie Montero (1-0) of Pompano Beach, Fla. at bantamweight.

One-half of the 26-year-old twin MMA fighter duo, Jocelyn “Lights Out” Lybarger (0-0) of Phoenix, Ariz. will make debut under professional status opposite Cheryl Chan (0-0) of Surrey, British Columbia Canada at super flyweight.

Jessica Philippus (0-0) of Marshall, Mo. will battle Liz McCarthy (0-0) of Tigard, Ore. at atomweight.

In an atomweight (105 pounds) matchup, Angelica Chavez (4-1) of Albuquerque, N.M. will face an opponent to be determined after Kikuyo Ishikawa (7-3) of Gushikawa, Okinawa Japan, withdrew from the bout.

All bouts have been approved by the Kansas State Athletic Commission.

About Invicta Fighting Championships:

Invicta Fighting Championships is a world championship Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fight series dedicated to providing female athletes with a major platform to hone their skills on a consistent basis. Founded in 2012 by longtime MMA executive Shannon Knapp and sports aficionado Janet Martin, Invicta is committed to pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA by promoting the best possible matchups between female competitors and identifying and developing future superstars of the sport.

About JEWELS:

Founded in 2008 as the successor of Smack Girl.(An event promotion company called Marvelous Japan, Inc purchased all of the rights of Smack Girl, formed partnership with DEEP, then re-started as JEWELS) The headquarters is located in Tokyo, Japan. JEWELS is the only all women's MMA promotion in Japan now and since its foundation on 2008 JEWELS has successfully promoted 19 professional MMA shows, and also, several grappling and amateur events as well.

SOURCE: Witz End Communications, Inc.

Monday, June 4, 2012

THQ AND ZUFFA ANNOUNCE TRANSITION OF ULTIMATE FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP VIDEOGAME RIGHTS

AGOURA HILLS, Calif. & LAS VEGAS, Jun. 4, 2012 -- THQ Inc. (NASDAQ: THQI) and Zuffa, LLC, today announced that they have reached an agreement resulting in Zuffa licensing to Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: EA) the right to publish videogames based on the Ultimate Fighting Championship® (UFC®) brand, effective today. The agreement results in an undisclosed cash payment to THQ. Additionally, THQ will continue to publish its existing console and mobile titles through March 31, 2013.

“Over the last three years, THQ has delivered best-in-class, all-encompassing experiences to MMA fans, sports enthusiasts and fighting gamers around the globe with its UFC Undisputed™ series. We want to thank them for their stewardship of our brand," said Dana White, President, UFC. “We look forward to joining forces with EA to leverage their sports platform, and expand our brand in the video game space.”

Brian Farrell, THQ’s Chairman and CEO, commented, “We have relished our relationship with UFC over the last several years and believe that the UFC gaming brand is in great shape. THQ’s more focused strategy moving forward meant that transferring the license to EA made sense to all parties. We would like to thank UFC for their great support and partnership and wish EA all the best moving forward.”

About Ultimate Fighting Championship®

Owned and operated by Zuffa, LLC, and headquartered in Las Vegas, Nev., UFC® is the world’s premier MMA organization and produces over 12 UFC live Pay-Per-View events annually around the globe. In 2012, FOX will broadcast four fights annually. In spring 2012, The Ultimate Fighter®, UFC’s signature weekly reality TV show, debuts on FX. UFC content is also distributed commercially to bars and restaurants through Joe Hand Promotions in the U.S. Globally, UFC programming is broadcast in over 149 countries and territories, reaching a half a billion homes worldwide, in 20 different languages.

UFC® also boasts a powerful presence online, with UFC.com attracting over seven million unique visitors per month, while also possessing one of the most powerful social media followings in all of professional sports. To date, UFC has over six million fans on Facebook and over 400,000 followers on Twitter. In addition, UFC President Dana White is one of the most accessible and most followed executives in sports with more than 1.7 million followers on Twitter. On January 22, 2011, UFC continued to set trends in social media, becoming the first major sports league to stream live, broadcast quality action on Facebook.

Ancillary businesses include best-selling DVDs, a magazine, the best-selling UFC “Undisputed” videogame franchise distributed by THQ, UFC GYM®, UFC Fight Club affinity program, UFC Fan Expo® festivals, branded apparel, trading cards, and articulated action figures.

About THQ

THQ Inc. (NASDAQ: THQI) is a leading worldwide developer and publisher of interactive entertainment software. The company develops its products for all popular game systems, personal computers, wireless devices and the Internet. Headquartered in Los Angeles County, California, THQ sells product through its global network of offices located throughout North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. More information about THQ and its products may be found at http://www.thq.com/. THQ and its logo are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of THQ Inc.

THQ Inc. Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains statements that are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about the business of THQ Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively referred to as "THQ"), including, but not limited to, expectations with respect to the transfer of the UFC license from THQ to Electronic Arts. These statements are based upon management's current beliefs and certain assumptions made by management. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, business, competitive, economic, legal, political, and technological factors affecting our industry, operations, markets, products, or pricing. Readers should carefully review the risk factors and the information that could materially affect THQ's financial results, described in other documents that THQ files from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal period ended March 31, 2011 and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and particularly the discussion of trends and risk factors set forth therein. Unless otherwise required by law, THQ disclaims any obligation to update its view on any such risks or uncertainties or to revise or publicly release the results of any revision to these forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release.

SOURCE: THQ Inc.

Friday, May 11, 2012

Dustin Runnels Available For Bookings

Former World Wrestling Entertainment Superstar Dustin Runnels, best known to wrestling fans globally as "Dustin Rhodes" and "Goldust," is now available to independent wrestling companies for match bookings, wrestling seminars, autograph sessions and personal appearances.

Runnels, who most recently was a producer for WWE, lending his knowledge and expertise to younger talent, and who had frequent on-air appearances as "Goldust," is a respected member of the WWE's alumni who - as a second generation performer, author and high profile champion - brings more than 25 years of pro wrestling experience with him to events.

As a dedicated father and fiancé, Dustin also brings a fan-friendly and professional demeanor with him to the independent circuit, which is an important ingredient that is necessary toward making any event he is part of, a memorable and enjoyable one for the paying consumer.

Dustin is based out of Central Florida and is exclusively being represented by author and former National Wrestling Alliance president Howard Brody of Fort Lauderdale.
For booking inquiries and availabilities on Dustin, Brody can be contacted via e-mail at howard@howardbrody.com. All serious inquiries will be addressed.

SOURCE: Eclectic Media Productions

Friday, April 27, 2012

ALL 11 BOUTS FOR INAUGURAL INVICTA FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIPS WOMEN’S MMA EVENT MADE OFFICIAL AT WEIGH-INS

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (April 27, 2012) – All 11 bouts, including the featherweight (145 pounds) main event rematch between superstar Marloes Coenen (19-5) of The Netherlands and 22-year-old armbar wizard Romy Ruyssen (5-1) of France, were made official at today’s weigh-in at Hotel Phillips for the inaugural Invicta Fighting Championships all-women’s Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) event tomorrow/Saturday, April 28 at Memorial Hall, live on InvictaFC.com.

Coenen weighed in at 146 pounds and Ruyssen originally weighed in at 150.4 pounds, but cut to 149.8 pounds over the course of the next two hours to reduce the weight spread between the two headlining fighters to 3.8 pounds.

Kansas State Athletic Commission rules mandate that opponents, with the exception of those in the featherweight division, must weigh within three pounds of each other in order to compete the following day. Opponents in the featherweight division must weigh within five pounds of each other.

Tickets for the inaugural Invicta Fighting Championships event, priced from $35, are on sale at Memorial Hall box office (913) 549-4853), online at Ticketmaster.com and InvictaFC.com and by phone at (800) 745-3000.

The live stream of the event on InvictaFC.com will begin at 8 p.m. EST/5 p.m. PST with the five-bout preliminary card and continue with the six-bout main card. The stream will be available free of charge.

In the co-main event, two 29-year-old submission specialists - Jessica Penne (8-1) of Laguna Hills, Calif. and Lisa Ellis-Ward (14-7) of Lacey, Wash.- will square off with one another at strawweight (105 pounds).

Strikeforce bantamweight star and United States Marine Liz “Girl-Rilla” Carmouche (5-2) of San Diego, Calif. will square off with unbeaten prospect Ashleigh Curry (1-0) of Kansas City, Mo.

Leslie Smith (3-2) of Pleasant Hill, Calif. will meet Kaitlin Young (7-5) of St. Louis Park, Minn. at bantamweight and Sally Krumdiack (9-4) of Bellingham, Wash. will duke it out with Sarah Schneider (5-5) of Kansas City, Mo. at flyweight (115 pounds).

In preliminary card action, 2008 Olympic wrestling bronze medalist Randi Miller (0-0) of Denver, Colo. will make her highly-anticipated MMA debut against Mollie Estes (1-0) Lake Lotawana, Mo.

About Invicta Fighting Championships:

Invicta Fighting Championships is a world championship Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fight series dedicated to providing female athletes with a major platform to hone their skills on a consistent basis. Founded in 2012 by longtime MMA executive Shannon Knapp and sports aficionado Janet Martin, Invicta is committed to pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA by promoting the best possible matchups between female competitors and identifying and developing future superstars of the sport.

SOURCE: Witz End Communications, Inc.

Click images to enlarge

001_Sarah_D’Alelio_and_Vanessa_Mariscal – Grappling specialist Sarah D’Alelio (left) will face off with unbeaten Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu brown belt Vanessa Mariscal in a bantamweight (135 pounds) matchup at the first-ever Invicta Fighting Championships all-women’s MMA event, live on InvictaFC.com, from Memorial Hall in Kansas City, Kan. on Saturday.
002_Kaitlin_Young_and_Leslie_Smith – Twenty-four year-old MMA and Muay Thai competitor Kaitlin Young (left) weighed in at 135.4 pounds while her opponent, power puncher Leslie Smith (right), weighed in at an even 135 pounds for the pair’s bantamweight tilt.

003_Liz_Carmouche_and_Ashleigh_Curry – U.S. Marine Liz “Girl-Rilla” Carmouche (left) collides with unbeaten Kansas City prospect Ashleigh Curry (right) in another featured bantamweight battle.

004_Jessica_Penne_and_Lisa_Ellis – Fast-rising star Jessica Penne (left) faces off with submission fellow specialist Lisa Ellis-Ward (right) in the atomweight (105 pounds) co-main event.

005_Marloes_Coenen_vs_Romy_Ruyssen – Superstar and former Strikeforce champion Marloes Coenen (left) engages 22-year-old armbar wizard Romy Ruyssen (right) in a tense staredown one day before their main event rematch at the inaugural Invicta Fighting Championships event. Coenen was the victory of their first meeting in Aug. 2008 by way of second round submission (rear-naked choke).

006_Marloes_Coenen_vs_Romy_Ruyssen – Coenen (left) and Ruyssen (right) continued to eye each other even after they faced off.

PHOTOS: Esther Lin/Invicta Fighting Championships

Monday, April 23, 2012

MAURO RANALLO, “KING MO” LAWAL AND JULIE KEDZIE TO CALL THE ACTION AT INAUGURAL INVICTA FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIPS ALL-WOMEN’S MMA EVENT APRIL 28 IN KANSAS CITY, KAN.

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (April 23, 2012) – SHOWTIME Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) voice Mauro Ranallo, light heavyweight superstar “King Mo” Lawal and women’s star Julie “Fireball” Kedzie will call the action cageside at the first-ever Invicta Fighting Championships all-women’s professional MMA event, live on InvictaFC.com, from Memorial Hall in Kansas City, Kan. on Saturday, April 28.

Ranallo, the lead commentator for Strikeforce on Showtime as well as for Canada’s The Score Fighting Series and a former commentator for Japan’s Pride Fighting Championships, will serve as the play-by-play announcer during the live stream of the event.

“I have always been a huge advocate of female MMA and I am very excited to be a part of the inaugural Invicta show,” said Ranallo. “The ladies have a history of stealing the show from the guys, so it’s nice to see them get a show of their own.”

Lawal is a former Strikeforce light heavyweight champion who burst onto the fight scene four years ago with four straight victories in Japan’s World Victory Road MMA series and has since amassed a career record of 8-1 (1 NC). A former NCAA Division I All-American wrestler for Oklahoma State University, the 31-year-old has gained recognition for his technical knowledge of MMA and his meticulous attention to fighters’ styles.

“I’m excited to be a part of this event with some of the top women’s fighters in the world,” said Lawal. “The growth of women’s MMA is going to soar even more now, thanks to what Invicta is doing.”

Like Lawal, Kedzie brings a wealth of MMA fight experience with her to the show. A student of famed trainer Greg Jackson, the 31-year-old has been competing as a professional since 2004 and holds a career record of 16-9.

“This Invicta show is a landmark moment in the history of women’s MMA and I’m very excited and honored that I was asked to be a part of it,” said Kedzie.

The live stream on InvictaFC.com will begin at 8 p.m. EST/5 p.m. PST with the event’s five-bout preliminary card and continue with the six-bout main card.

The first-ever Invicta Fighting Championships event will be headlined by a long-awaited featherweight (145 pounds) rematch between superstar Marloes Coenen (19-5) of The Netherlands and Romy Ruyssen (5-1) of France. Coenen was the victor of their first meeting on Aug. 2, 2008 by way of submission (rear-naked choke) in the second round of action.

In the co-main event, two 29-year-old submission specialists - Jessica Penne (8-1) of Laguna Hills, Calif. and Lisa Ellis-Ward (14-7) of Lacey, Wash.- will square off with one another at strawweight (105 pounds).

Strikeforce bantamweight star and United States Marine Liz “Girl-Rilla” Carmouche (5-2) of San Diego, Calif. will square off with unbeaten prospect Ashleigh Curry (1-0) of Kansas City, Mo.

Another Strikeforce bantamweight competitor, Sarah D’Alelio (4-2) of San Jose, Calif., will face undefeated former Royce Gracie student and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu brown belt Vanessa Mariscal (2-0) of El Segundo, Calif.

Leslie Smith (3-2) of Pleasant Hill, Calif. will meet Kaitlin Young (7-5) of St. Louis Park, Minn. at bantamweight and Sally Krumdiack (9-4) of Bellingham, Wash. will duke it out with Sarah Schneider (5-5) of Kansas City, Mo. at flyweight (115 pounds).

Making her MMA debut on the preliminary card will be 2008 Olympic wrestling bronze medalist Randi Miller (0-0) of Denver, Colo. Miller will face unbeaten Mollie Estes (1-0) of Lake Lotawana, Mo. at featherweight.

In preliminary card action, Nicdali Rivera-Calanoc (7-5) of Tulsa, Okla. will take on Amy Davis (2-2) of Idaho Falls, Idaho at strawweight. Sarah Maloy (2-2) of Ada, Okla. will meet Michele Gutierrez (3-2) of Las Vegas, Nev. in a super flyweight (125 pounds) tilt. Unbeaten Ashley Cummins (2-0) of St. Louis will battle Sofia Bagherdai (4-1) of Upland, Calif. at flyweight. Cassie Rodish (1-3) of Waukee, Iowa will face Meghan Wright (1-3) of Cincinnati, Ohio in a strawweight matchup.

All bouts have been approved by the Kansas State Athletic Commission.

About Invicta Fighting Championships:

Invicta Fighting Championships is a world championship Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fight series dedicated to providing female athletes with a major platform to hone their skills on a consistent basis. Founded in 2012 by longtime MMA executive Shannon Knapp and sports aficionado Janet Martin, Invicta is committed to pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA by promoting the best possible matchups between female competitors and identifying and developing future superstars of the sport.

SOURCE: Witz End Communications, Inc.

Thursday, April 19, 2012

Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Gives World's Biggest Beer Producer World's Biggest Public Relations Black Eye

Shareholders Should Demand an End to Anheuser-Busch InBev's Sponsorship of Bloody Human Cage-Fighting, Says Alcohol Justice

SAN FRANCISCO, April 19, 2012 -- The largest shareholders of publicly-traded, global beer behemoth Anheuser-Busch InBev are being asked to exert pressure on company management to end its sponsorship of the brutally violent human cage-fighting sport known as the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). In a letter sent today to the major stockholders of A-B InBev, Alcohol Justice Executive Director and CEO Bruce Lee Livingston stated, "Bud Light ads are irresponsibly delivering harmful content to millions of youth, exposing them to people beating one another to a bloody pulp…A-B InBev shareholders should be outraged."

The full text of the letter follows:

April 19, 2012

An Open Letter to Anheuser-Busch InBev (ABI) Shareholders

RE: Opposition to sponsorship of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC)

Dear Shareholder:

As fellow shareholders and as public health advocates, Alcohol Justice (formerly Marin Institute) asks you to vigorously oppose ABI's sponsorship of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), the world's largest promoter of violent cage-fighting events.

We believe ABI's sponsorship of UFC must come to an end as there is a very tangible risk to the bottom line of dividends and stock price value as well as long term bad press as the relationship of this patently brutal blood sport to predatory marketing of Bud Light to underage youth are played out on the global stage of public opinion. It's already being called "Blood Light." This cannot be good for business, sales, or long-term profitability.

Alcohol Justice, the alcohol industry watchdog, has served as a leading research and advocacy institution for over 24 years. We monitor and expose the alcohol industry's targeting of youth and minority populations, as well as the industry's adverse effect on public health and the environment globally.

There is compelling evidence that exposure to alcohol advertising and marketing increases the likelihood of underage drinking. Since 2001, at least seven peer-reviewed, federally funded, long-term studies have found that young people with greater exposure to alcohol marketing — including on television, in magazines, on the radio, on billboards or other outdoor signage, or via in-store beer displays, beer concessions, or ownership of beer promotional items or branded merchandise — are more likely to start drinking than their peers.

As the primary sponsor of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), Anheuser-Busch InBev (ABI) is delivering harmful content to millions of underage youth. At center stage is the ever-present Bud Light logo, imbued throughout all of UFC's violent events, including live fights, Pay-Per-View, and television broadcasts that reach 354 million homes worldwide. These homes are filled with children!

In addition, millions of UFC fans of all ages have access to live streaming of fights via Facebook, and limitless YouTube videos of bloody fights, promotions, and "pornohol" such as Bud Light Lime ads featuring UFC "Octagon Girl" Arianny Celeste topless, underwear-clad and rolling around in a bed of limes.

UFC President Dana White has been quoted as saying "our targeted audience is anywhere from age 17 to 35." He and a number of UFC athletes have recently come under fire for sexist, homophobic, violent and derogatory remarks, including jokes about rape and sexual assault. As A-B InBev shareholders we should be outraged by this behavior.

Given that alcohol is the number one drug of choice among America's youth, and the U.S. Surgeon General estimates that approximately 5,000 people under age 21 die from alcohol-related injuries involving underage drinking each year, board members, shareholders, and consumers will become more aware of the ethical ramifications that continued sponsorship of UFC will have on ABI. Do we really want Bud Light ads to be condemned for irresponsibly delivering harmful content to millions of youth, exposing them to people beating one another to a bloody pulp?

We believe this will lead to mounting litigations, inevitable regulatory and legislative actions, and growing concerns about the safety of youth exposed to harmful content by viewing UFC promotions. All of this can only hurt ABI's reputation as a corporate citizen and its robust revenue.

As shareholders we have an obligation to help protect stock value by holding the corporation to higher standards of responsibility, especially those related to underage consumption and harm. We can insist that management address these ethical issues with more integrity by pulling its support of this graphic, violent, bloody sport. While the world may still want to enjoy a Bud Light, it does not need "Blood Light."

Respectfully,
Bruce Lee Livingston, MPP
Executive Director/CEO

For more information about Alcohol Justice, its research, campaigns and actions, go to www.AlcoholJustice.org.

SOURCE: Alcohol Justice

Monday, April 16, 2012

WrestleMania® Sets Pay-Per-View Record

STAMFORD, Conn. Apr. 16, 2012 -- WWE (NYSE:WWE) announced today that WrestleMania, held April 1 at Sun Life Stadium in Miami, set new records for pay-per-view buys and gross sales. Preliminary estimates show that WrestleMania, featuring the historic Once in a Lifetime match between The Rock® and John Cena®, garnered 1.3 million pay-per-view buys with global gross sales in excess of $67 million including the live event.

WrestleMania was seen around the world on pay-per-view in more than 105 countries and 20 languages.

Next year’s WrestleMania will take place Sunday, April 7, 2013 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Ticket information will be announced later this year.

About WWE

WWE, a publicly traded company (NYSE: WWE), is an integrated media organization and recognized leader in global entertainment. The company consists of a portfolio of businesses that create and deliver original content 52 weeks a year to a global audience. WWE is committed to family friendly entertainment on its television programming, pay-per-view, digital media and publishing platforms. WWE programming is broadcast in more than 145 countries and 30 languages and reaches more than 600 million homes worldwide. The company is headquartered in Stamford, Conn., with offices in New York, Los Angeles, Miami, London, Mumbai, Shanghai, Singapore, Istanbul and Tokyo.

Additional information on WWE (NYSE: WWE) can be found at wwe.com and corporate.wwe.com. For information on our global activities, go to http://www.wwe.com/worldwide/.

Trademarks: All WWE programming, talent names, images, likenesses, slogans, wrestling moves, trademarks, logos and copyrights are the exclusive property of WWE and its subsidiaries. All other trademarks, logos and copyrights are the property of their respective owners.

Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains forward-looking statements pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are subject to various risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, risks relating to maintaining and renewing key agreements, including television and pay-per-view programming distribution agreements; the need for continually developing creative and entertaining programming; the continued importance of key performers and the services of Vincent McMahon; the conditions of the markets in which we compete and acceptance of the Company's brands, media and merchandise within those markets; our exposure to bad debt risk; uncertainties relating to regulatory and litigation matters; risks resulting from the highly competitive nature of our markets; uncertainties associated with international markets; the importance of protecting our intellectual property and complying with the intellectual property rights of others; risks associated with producing and travelling to and from our large live events, both domestically and internationally; the risk of accidents or injuries during our physically demanding events; risks relating to our film business; risks relating to increasing content production for distribution on various platforms, including the potential creation of a WWE network; risks relating to our computer systems and online operations; risks relating to the large number of shares of common stock controlled by members of the McMahon family and the possibility of the sale of their stock by the McMahons or the perception of the possibility of such sales; the relatively small public float of our stock; and other risks and factors set forth from time to time in Company filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results could differ materially from those currently expected or anticipated. In addition, our dividend is dependent on a number of factors, including, among other things, our liquidity and historical and projected cash flow, strategic plan (including alternative uses of capital), our financial results and condition, contractual and legal restrictions on the payment of dividends, general economic and competitive conditions and such other factors as our Board of Directors may consider relevant.

SOURCE: WWE

Thursday, April 12, 2012

UFC Supports Creation Of International Mixed Martial Arts Federation

Global unified amateur rules, regulations & safety a positive step for fastest growing sport in the world

LAS VEGAS, April 12, 2012 -- The Ultimate Fighting Championship®, the world's leader in mixed martial arts (MMA), applauds the announcement made earlier today of the creation of the new International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF). The UFC wholeheartedly supports this new initiative as well as its leader, IMMAF President August Wallen, who will spearhead the initial growth of this Federation.

UFC Chairman and CEO Lorenzo Fertitta, who has helped lead the global growth of the UFC, feels that the timing is perfect. "In order to maintain the successful growth of our sport, it is important to invest in resources that will develop and cultivate it at an amateur level. Having an umbrella organization that will oversee and help build the sport on a global level will not only provide advanced and ever-improving safety standards but will also create a unified global model to help introduce the sport to new markets. It is our hope that it will also take us one step closer to witnessing the inclusion of the sport of MMA on the Olympic programme."

"The creation of this organization is long overdue," said Marc Ratner, Senior Vice President of Government and Regulatory Affairs. "MMA is the fastest growing sport in the world and we support the Federation's focus on providing a globally unified set of rules and safety measures to help keep all fighters safe. While there are many obstacles ahead in the formation of this international organization, we are confident of the outcomes and advancements this group will make for the future of our sport."

The UFC has long been committed to the growth and development of the sport of MMA. With broadcasts in over 150 countries and territories, to nearly one billion homes worldwide, in 20 different languages, and more than 30 live events annually worldwide, the UFC has helped introduce the sport to many new cultures and audiences.

The creation of the IMMAF will help to foster the development of the sport at the grassroots level and bolster the work being done by the UFC and all other MMA organizations worldwide, further developing the integrity and legitimacy of the sport.

To learn more about the International MMA Federation visit www.immaf.org.

About Ultimate Fighting Championship®

Universally recognized for its action-packed, can't-miss events that have sold out some of the biggest arenas and stadiums across the globe, the UFC® is the world's premier mixed martial arts organization. Owned and operated by Zuffa, LLC, headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada, and with offices in London, England, Toronto, Canada and Beijing, China, UFC® produces more than 30 live events annually and is the largest Pay-Per-View event provider in the world.

In 2011, the UFC burst into the mainstream with a landmark seven-year broadcast agreement with FOX Sports Media Group. The agreement includes four live events broadcast on the FOX network annually, with additional fight cards and thousands of hours of programming broadcast on FOX properties FX and FUEL TV. This includes the longest-running sports reality show on television, The Ultimate Fighter®, which now air on FX in an exciting new live format.

In addition to its reach on FOX, UFC programming is broadcast in over 150 countries and territories, to nearly one billion homes worldwide, in 20 different languages. UFC content is also distributed commercially in the United States to bars and restaurants through Joe Hand Promotions. The UFC also connects with tens of millions of fans through its website, UFC.com, as well as social media sites Facebook and Twitter. UFC President Dana White is considered one of the most accessible and followed executives in sports, with nearly two million followers on Twitter.

Ancillary UFC businesses include best-selling DVDs, an internationally distributed magazine, the best-selling UFC Undisputed® video game franchise distributed by THQ, UFC GYM®, UFC Fight Club affinity program, UFC Fan Expo® festivals, branded apparel, trading cards, and action figures.

SOURCE: Ultimate Fighting Championship

Saturday, April 7, 2012

Card Update - Bellator Fighting Championships 66

I-X Center
Cleveland, Ohio
Friday, April 20, 2012
Live on MTV2 @ 8:00 PM ET
Lineup subject to change


NON-TELEVISED (Live on spike.com/bellator.com @ 7&10 PM ET)
* Aisling Daly vs. Jessica Eye - NAAFS Women's title
* Dan Spohn vs. Attila Vegh - NAAFS Light-Heavyweight title
* John Hawk vs. Marcus Vanttinen - light heavyweights
* Frank Caraballo vs. Donny Walker - NAAFS Featherweight title

TELEVISED
* Eddie Alvarez vs. Shinya Aoki - lightweights
* Rick Hawn vs. Lloyd Woodard - lightweight semifinal
* Thiago Michel Pereira Silva vs. Brent Weedman - lightweight semifinal
* Brian Rogers vs. Bruno Santos - middleweight semifinal
* Maiquel Falcao vs. Vyacheslav Vasilevsky - middleweight semifinal

Notes: Not sure of bout order, but this should be the complete lineup.

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

INVICTAFC.COM TO STREAM INAUGURAL ALL-WOMEN’S MMA EVENT LIVE APRIL 28 FROM KANSAS CITY, KAN.

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (March 28, 2012) – Invicta Fighting Championships will stream its inaugural all-women’s professional Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) event live in its entirety, free of charge to a worldwide audience on the promotion’s website, InvictaFC.com, from Memorial Hall in Kansas City, Kan. on Saturday, April 28.

“Since we announced the formation of Invicta, we’ve received tremendous support and interest from fight fans around the world who are eager to watch some of the best fighters in the women’s field of MMA compete in our first event,” said Invicta President and Co-Founder Shannon Knapp.

“The live stream,” continued Knapp, “is the best way to give fans, no matter where they are located, the opportunity to participate and take in the action as it unfolds and, at the same time, establish the forthcoming Invicta website as an online destination for women’s MMA content.”

The live stream on InvictaFC.com will begin at 8 p.m. EST/5 p.m. PST with the event’s five-bout preliminary card and continue with the seven-bout main card.

The first-ever Invicta Fighting Championships event will be headlined by a long-awaited featherweight (145 pounds) rematch between superstar Marloes Coenen (19-5) of The Netherlands and Romy Ruyssen (5-1) of France.

In the co-main event, two 29-year-old submission specialists - Jessica Penne (8-1) of Laguna Hills, Calif. and Lisa Ellis-Ward (14-7) of Lacey, Wash.- will square off with one another at strawweight (105 pounds).

Undefeated rising star Cat “Alpha” Zingano (6-0) of Denver, Colo. will square off with fellow hard-hitting prospect and professional boxer Anita “El Tigre” Rodriguez (5-2) of Dallas, Texas in a featured bantamweight (135 pounds) bout.

Strikeforce bantamweight star and United States Marine Liz “Girl-Rilla” Carmouche (5-2) of San Diego, Calif. will square off with unbeaten prospect Ashleigh Curry (1-0) of Kansas City, Mo.

Another Strikeforce bantamweight competitor, Sarah D’Alelio (4-2) of San Jose, Calif., will face Shana “Rock Solid” Nelson (5-2) of Hibbing, Minn.

Leslie Smith (3-2) of Pleasant Hill, Calif. will meet Kaitlin Young (7-5) of St. Louis Park, Minn. at bantamweight and Sally Krumdiack (9-4) of Bellingham, Wash. will duke it out with Sarah Schneider (5-5) of Kansas City, Mo. at flyweight (115 pounds).

In preliminary card action, Nicdali Rivera-Calanoc (7-5) of Tulsa, Okla. will take on Amy Davis (2-2) of Idaho Falls, Idaho at strawweight. Sarah Maloy (2-2) of Ada, Okla. will meet Michele Gutierrez (3-2) of Las Vegas, Nev. in a super flyweight (125 pounds) tilt. Mollie Estes (1-0) of Lake Lotawana, Mo. will face Randi Miller (0-0) of Broomfield, Colo. at featherweight. Unbeaten Ashley Cummins (2-0) of St. Louis will battle Sofia Bagherdai (4-1) of Upland, Calif. at flyweight. Jessica Philippus (0-0) of Marshall, Mo. will make her professional debut against Meghan Wright (1-3) of Cincinnati, Ohio in a strawweight matchup.

All bouts have been approved by the Kansas State Athletic Commission.

About Invicta Fighting Championships:

Invicta Fighting Championships is a world championship Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fight series dedicated to providing female athletes with a major platform to hone their skills on a consistent basis. Founded in 2012 by longtime MMA executive Shannon Knapp and sports aficionado Janet Martin, Invicta is committed to pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA by promoting the best possible matchups between female competitors and identifying and developing future superstars of the sport.

SOURCE: Witz End Communications, Inc.

Saturday, March 24, 2012

Programming Alert: HBO Latino's 'Destino Deporte' ('Sports Destination')

According to an HBO Latino press release, on Monday, April 9, at 8 PM ET, the network will premier 'Destino Deporte,' a documentary which claims to go "beyond the scores and statistics to cover the unexplored side of sports."

Although I have no idea what was filmed, or even when, one of the program's topics will be "the triumphs and tragedy of lucha libre in Mexico City."

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

(CORRECTED LINK) HD-VIDEO PREVIEW: 'ONCE IN A LIFETIME - ROCK VS. CENA'

Looks like a winner ... Enjoy, courtesy of WWE and NBCUniversal:

Tuesday, March 20, 2012

“ONCE IN A LIFETIME – ROCK VS. CENA” TO AIR ON 11 NBCU NETWORKS

STAMFORD, Conn., March 20, 2012 – WWE (NYSE:WWE) and NBCUniversal are joining forces to televise “Once in a Lifetime – Rock vs. Cena,” an epic one-hour special that follows WWE Superstars The Rock® and John Cena® on their respective roads to WrestleMania® XXVIII. This first ever behind-the-scenes special premieres Monday, March 26 on USA Network at 8/7c and will also air on NBCUniversal networks including Syfy, Bravo, E!, Oxygen, G4, Style, NBC Sports Network, mun2, CLOO and Universal HD leading up to WrestleMania on Sunday, April 1st at 7:00 p.m. ET.

This lifestyle special is a candid and compelling look at two of the biggest icons in sports entertainment history as they prepare for their Once in a Lifetime main event match. From touring and training on the road to Hollywood movie sets to the 54th Annual Daytona 500, this in-depth look with exclusive footage gives viewers unprecedented access and a glimpse into the personal lives of these men.

About WWE

WWE, a publicly traded company (NYSE: WWE), is an integrated media organization and recognized leader in global entertainment. The company consists of a portfolio of businesses that create and deliver original content 52 weeks a year to a global audience. WWE is committed to family friendly entertainment on its television programming, pay-per-view, digital media and publishing platforms. WWE programming is broadcast in more than 145 countries and 30 languages and reaches more than 500 million homes worldwide. The company is headquartered in Stamford, Conn., with offices in New York, Los Angeles, London, Mumbai, Shanghai, Singapore, Istanbul and Tokyo.

Additional information on WWE (NYSE: WWE) can be found at wwe.com and corporate.wwe.com. For information on our global activities, go to http://www.wwe.com/worldwide/.

SOURCE: WWE

Wednesday, March 14, 2012

RUFF And Mandt Bros. Announce First Full Season Of MMA In China Beginning With March 24 Fight In Chongqing

In the world's most populous nation, RUFF is the ultimate name in Mixed Martial Arts as the only professional MMA organization exclusively sanctioned by Chinese government

SHANGHAI, March 14, 2012 -- With the bell set to ring in its first event of 2012, RUFF (Ranik Ultimate Fighting Federation), in partnership with Los Angeles-based Mandt Bros. Productions and Beijing's Wushu Administrative Center, held a press conference in Shanghai today to announce its first full season and the 2013 Super Fight, a title fight to crown China's first MMA national champions.

The announcement, made by Joel Resnick of RUFF and Neil Mandt of Mandt Bros., came ten days ahead of RUFF 3 on March 24, and further outlined the Super Fight details. In addition to the championship belt, winners of each weight class, including the newly introduced 125 lbs. (57 kg.) Flyweight Division, will become instant millionaires in China, earning RMB 1,000,000 for claiming the title.

RUFF, the first professional mixed martial arts (MMA) organization sanctioned by the government of China, recently signed a development deal with Mandt Bros. to lead all television production, beginning with the March 24 contest, to be broadcast around the Chinese mainland the following week.

In October 2010, after four years of negotiating with the Wushu Administrative Center, the governing branch of Chinese combat sports, RUFF founders Joel Resnick and Saul Rajsky secured the rights to produce and promote live professional MMA events in China. RUFF held its first two fights in late 2011, setting the stage for an exciting year of growth for the first and only MMA organization in China.

About Ranik Ultimate Fighting Federation (RUFF)

Headquartered in Shanghai, Ranik Ultimate Fighting Federation (RUFF) has the exclusive rights to produce and promote live MMA events as a sanctioned sport in China, by permission of the General Administration of Sport of China and the Wushu Administrative Center. Its first two MMA events were produced in late 2011 in Shanghai and Chongqing. The next event is scheduled take place on March 24 in Chongqing. For more information, please visit www.ruffchina.com.

About Mandt Bros. Productions

Brothers Neil and Michael Mandt are partners in the four-time Emmy Award-winning production company Mandt Bros. Productions, headquartered in Los Angeles. Between them, they have earned four Emmy Awards, nine Emmy nominations, among numerous other accolades. Their projects include the critically acclaimed feature film Last Stop for Paul, its TV adaptation "Next Stop for Charlie" (Showtime) and other television projects which have included "Destination Truth" (Syfy), "Jim Rome is Burning" (ESPN), "Ice Brigade" (Food Network), "Strangers in Danger" (Fuel TV) and "The Car Show" (Speed Network).

SOURCE: Mandt Bros. Productions

Card Update - Bellator Fighting Championships 64

The Colosseum at Caesars Windsor
Windsor, Ontario, Canada
Friday, April 6, 2012
Live on MTV2 @ 8:00 PM ET
Lineup subject to change


NON-TELEVISED (Live on spike.com @ 7&10 PM ET)

TELEVISED
* Ben Askren vs. Douglas Lima - Welterweight title
* Chris Horodecki vs. Mike Richman - lightweights
* bantamweight tournament - quarterfinals
* featherweight tournament - semifinals

Monday, March 5, 2012

New Season Of Bellator Premiers On Tr3s

Talented Latinos & World Class Fighters step into the cage for Season Six

Spanish-language announcers George X & Manny Rodriguez call fights for Hispanic audiences, every Sunday at 10:00pm (ET) starting March 11th

MIAMI, March 5, 2012 -- Tr3s: MTV, Musica y Mas, the bilingual/bicultural entertainment destination for Hispanics in the US, delivers more mixed martial arts (MMA) fights with the premiere of the 6th season of Bellator Fighting Championships in Spanish. The world class MMA platform will feature the most dynamic fighters in the industry including Latino Bellator Middleweight World Champion Hector Lombard. Bellator in Spanish will premiere every Sunday starting March 11th at 10pm (ET) on Tr3s.

"Tr3s is the perfect platform for the vibrant mixed martial arts action of Bellator," commented Charlie Singer SVP of Content and Creative for Tr3s. "Hispanic audiences continue to identify themselves with this beloved cultural sport, and religiously tune into our MMA lineup week-after-week. Partnering with Bellator allows us to deliver on our audience's enthusiastic appetite for more engaging and innovative MMA content."

Bellator Fighting Championships is the first MMA promotion to hold an internationally televised tournament format. Unlike other organizations, Bellator's live fights and tournaments are structured so that the fighter's talent and ability determines their rank in the cage. This season will be stacked with great talent including Latino heavy-hitters Alexis "The Exorcist" Vila, Eddie Alvarez, Chris "The Assassin" Lozano, Douglas Lima, Eduardo "Dudu" Dantas, among others.

George X is one of the most admired Spanish-language announcers in Mexico, calling the shots in multiple sports including the NBA, the Winter Olympics and the Super Bowl. Extreme sport fanatics know George X as the face and voice of ESPN's Spanish-language X-Games coverage. An MMA expert, George X pens articles in various publications including Extreme Fighting. George joined the Bellator team in 2009.

Manny Rodriguez, previously ranking as the Heavyweight Champion for King of the Cage, has taken on the role as announcer for multiple MMA Live broadcasts in Mexico and has played a key role in the Spanish division of Bellator since its inception in 2009.

About Bellator Fighting Championships

Bellator Fighting Championships is a Mixed Martial Arts promotional company headquartered in Chicago. Bellator, Latin for Warrior, is partnered with entertainment industry leaders Viacom and Fremantle Entertainment, and is the world's leading tournament-based mixed martial arts organization. Bellator's Founder, Chairman & CEO Bjorn Rebney is an experienced fighting sports and entertainment professional with a deep commitment to the purity and integrity of the sport of MMA and its athletes. Bellator Fighting Championships' executive team is comprised of top industry professionals in the areas of live event production, television production, fighter relations, venue procurement, sponsorship creation/development, international licensing, marketing, advertising, publicity and commission relations.

About Tr3s: MTV, Musica y Mas

Tr3s: MTV, Musica y Mas, owned and operated by MTV Networks Latin America, reaches 6.1 million Hispanic TV households (45% of US Hispanic Total TV HH) and 34 million total TV households. The network's programming embraces the trilogy of cultures that represents Latino life – Latin American plus American equals US Latino – through original productions, key acquisitions, and content from MTV Networks' portfolio of entertainment brands. Tr3s embraces the key lifestyle aspects of Latino identity -- milestones, making it and music -- as well as social responsibility through its initiative "Agentes de Cambio," which tackles issues that affect Latinos today. The network also taps into the growing number of Latinos that are digitally connected through www.tr3s.com.

SOURCE: Tr3s

Full Fight Card Released For WMMA'S McCorkle Vs. Heden: Fighting For A Better World

WMMA Announces Impressive Lineup for Its Inaugural Event

LITTLE FALLS, NJ, 03/05/12 -- Worldwide Mixed Martial Arts, Inc. (WMMA) is proud to release their complete fight card for their inaugural charitable event benefiting the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) and the U.S. Army Wounded Warrior Program (AW2). The event will take place on March 31, 2012 at the Don Haskins Center in El Paso, TX.

Last month, WMMA announced that they will be hosting the inaugural event and a portion of the gate will be donated to the WWP and AW2. WMMA believes mixed martial arts is bigger than the company, therefore it has chosen to honor and provide assistance to our service members by partnering with organizations that are experts in assisting our real warriors and their families.

"We take pride in our fights," stated William McFarlane, President of WMMA. "Our fans mean the world to us and our gratitude will be shown through the events that we produce; that means the most action-packed bouts and the very best of mixed martial arts. Most importantly, it means supporting our real heroes and true fighters, our military, our soldiers, our families. This event is for them."

Fans of WMMA will also be treated to an amazing undercard, which is set to be streamed live on WMMA's website, www.wmmasports.com. Broadcast plans for the main card will be announced very soon.

McCorkle vs. Heden: Fighting For A Better World

Main Card:

1. Sean McCorkle vs. Brian Heden (Super Heavyweight)
2. Thomas Denny vs. Karo Parisyan (170lbs)
3. Lyle Beerbohm vs. Derrick Noble (170lbs)
4. Drew Fickett vs. Kevin Knabjian (170lbs)
5. Jamaine Facey vs. Willie Parks (185lbs)
6. Rodney Wallace vs. Derrick Mehmen (205lbs)

Under Card:

7. Darrill Schoonover Paul Buentello (265lbs)
8. Frank Gomez vs. Chris Gruetzemacher (145lbs)
9. Deutsch Pu'u vs. Esteves Jones (265lbs)
10. Lionel Lanham vs. Brad Peterson (185lbs)

McCorkle vs. Heden: Fighting For A Better World will take place on Saturday, March 31st at the Don Haskins Center in El Paso, Texas. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased on Ticketmaster. Full card is subject to change.

For more information on WMMA, please visit http://www.wmmasports.com.

Worldwide Mixed Martial Arts Sports, Inc. ("WMMA") is more than the sport of mixed martial arts. WMMA is a premier sports and entertainment enterprise dedicated to the global, responsible development of the sport of mixed martial arts through the promotion of culture and humanitarian values founded on the principles and traditions of balanced mental, physical and spiritual development.

SOURCE: WMMA

Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Josh Barnett Once Again Set To Meet With The CSAC Over 2009 Loss Of License

When it comes to the revocation of his California license, looks like Josh Barnett's hoping that the fifth time's the charm.

The current Strikeforce heavyweight (who, over the past three-years, has already seen the shelving of four appeal meetings) is currently scheduled to give it another college try, when he appears before the California State Athletic Commission on Monday, March 5.

In the wake of Zuffa's purchase of Strikeforce, the issue is especially important, because of the limits places on when and where Barnett can fight.

More to come, I'm quite certain.

Saturday, February 25, 2012

Check Out The Latest Releases From RF Video

New Jack, Tommy Dreamer, Cactus Jack, and more - http://www.rfvideo.com/feb24.html

Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Sean "Big Sexy" McCorkle To Face Brian Heden In Inaugural Worldwide Mixed Martial Arts Sports Event To Benefit Wounded Warrior Project

Former UFC Fighter Karo "The Heat" Parisyan vs. Thomas "Wildman" Denny Featured in Co-Main Event

LITTLE FALLS, NJ, Feb 21, 2012 -- Worldwide Mixed Martial Arts Sports, Inc. (WMMA) confirmed today that Sean "Big Sexy" McCorkle and Brian Heden will headline its inaugural charitable event, WMMA: McCorkle vs. Heden, Fighting for a Better World. The event will take place on March 31, 2012 at the 12,500-seat Don Haskins Center in El Paso, Texas, and will benefit the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) and the U.S. Army Wounded Warrior Program (AW2).

According to William McFarlane, President of WMMA, "The super heavyweight clash between McCorkle and Heden is sure to bring fireworks to El Paso as well as leave fans watching at home wanting more. By having two veterans of the sport at the top of this card benefiting the Wounded Warrior Project and the U.S. Army Wounded Warrior Program, it highlights our commitment to quality competition, respect for the sport, and promise to the local community and our real heroes."

Sean "Big Sexy" McCorkle (14-2), a UFC veteran, is looking to continue his winning ways after winning his last five fights. One of McCorkle's most notable wins was in front of his hometown in Indianapolis when he defeated K-1 and Pride veteran Mark Hunt at UFC 119.

"On March 31, 2012, my winning streak will be six," stated McCorkle. "There is no way I am losing this fight. I am walking out of the Don Haskins Center considered one of the top super heavyweights in the world, and if I have to dominate Brian to do it, so be it."

Brian Heden (21-10) is looking to get his first win of 2012 after being defeated by Jason Walraven at C3 Fights: Summer Slamfest. Heden is coming into the fight as the veteran of the two, having fought in over 30 professional contests. Heden has fought over 7 UFC and Strikeforce veterans, including Brett Rodgers and UFC Hall of Fame member, Dan "The Beast" Severn.

Heden is looking forward to stepping into the cage with McCorkle, stating, "If Sean thinks he's going to have an easy fight, he's in for a surprise. His winning streak stops in El Paso."

The co-main event features an explosive fight between Karo "The Heat" Parisyan (19-8) vs. Thomas "Wildman" Denny (26-19-1). Parisyan, a former UFC fighter, is on a 3-fight skid and looks to get back on the winning track. He was the former WEC Welterweight Champion and holds notable wins over Nick Diaz, Chris Lytle, and Matt Serra. However, Parisyan will have his hands full with Thomas "Wildman" Denny. Denny is hungry for a win after dropping his last two fights. With a record of 26-19-1, Denny is a former King of the Cage Welterweight Champion and has fought the sport's best athletes, including Nick Diaz.

Partnering with the City of El Paso and Fort Bliss, TX, WMMA works to introduce the sport of mixed martial arts and its benefits to the community. As part of their mission, WMMA will donate a substantial amount of this event's live gate to charity and continue to be a strong supporter and advocate of their critical mission.

WMMA is hosting a press conference where it plans to formally introduce the company and its mission to the world of mixed martial arts, the media and the public. The press conference will be held at Fort Bliss, TX today, February 21, 2012 at 5 p.m. MST.

The press conference will be open to the public and all media. In addition, it will be webcasted at www.wmmasports.com. WMMA invites everyone to ask questions via Twitter (@WMMASports) and by using the hastag #WMMAElPaso.

For more information on the event, please contact William McFarlane by email at wmcfarlane@wmmasports.com or call (480) 361-5719.

Worldwide Mixed Martial Arts Sports, Inc. ("WMMA") is more than the sport of mixed martial arts. WMMA is a premier sports and entertainment enterprises dedicated to the global, responsible development of the sport of mixed martial arts through the promotion of culture and humanitarian values founded on the principles and traditions of balanced mental, physical and spiritual development.

SOURCE: Worldwide Mixed Martial Arts