Memoirs Of Dory Funk Jr. - Programming Of The NWA World Championship

An article appeared in the sports section of the February 1, 1971 issue of the CHARLOTTE OBSERVER. It read, "A world championship match and a unique team bout share the spotlight on the wrestling card tonight at PARK CENTER. Dory Funk Jr. places his title on the line against Johnny Weaver. It's a two-of-three falls bout with a one hour time limit."

And with this match, in Johnny's own words, "the biggest and most prestigious singles program of my career began."

A capacity PARK CENTER crowd witnessed the match, which went to a sixty minute draw, with each man gaining one fall during the contest. Since Johnny the challenger did not defeat the champion in two falls, Dory Funk Jr. left Charlotte still the NWA WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION.

But the seed was planted for an incredible program between FUNK and WEAVER which would stretch out over a full year, with some very interesting plot twists along the way.

Now online in the Memoirs of Dory Funk Jr. http://www.dory-funk.com - "The Programing of the NWA World Heavyweight Championship.

Support Your Troops 58, "Morbid Power II comes to the Funking Conservatory Sound Stage in Ocala, Florida Saturday October 30th at the !BANG! TV Sound Stage. Show time is 7:00pm, Doors open at 6:30pm.

For ticket information call 352-895-4658 or purchase advance tickets online at http://www.dory-funk.com

If you would like to become a professional wrestler and be seen in 120 countries around the world on !BANG! TV and Premium !BANG! TV, Call now - 352-895-4658 or visit http://www.dory-funk.com

Source: Dory Funk Jr.

VERSUS EXPANDS PARTNERSHIP WITH UFC® TO AIR FOUR LIVE FIGHTS IN 2011

NEW YORK, N.Y. (October 28, 2010)-VERSUS today announced it will expand its partnership with the Ultimate Fighting Championship® (UFC) to feature four UFC events as part of its live programming in 2011, following the announcement that the UFC will be adding championship divisions at bantamweight and featherweight next year. VERSUS will air two remaining live WEC events this year, scheduled for November 11 and December 16, and the network's 2011 schedule will include classic WEC fights and other taped programming.

"The WEC on VERSUS has been a hugely successful property since its launch on the network in 2007 and the addition of the two live UFC fights in 2010 really solidified VERSUS as a destination for some of the best MMA action on television," said Jamie Davis, President of VERSUS. "We are thrilled to continue our partnership with the UFC and take our relationship to the next level."

The UFC began its relationship with VERSUS in 2010, marking the first time that live UFC events aired on a national sports cable network. VERSUS' two UFC fights this year, both featuring Pay-Per-View quality cards, averaged more than 1.1 million viewers and made VERSUS a top cable network in the country among key male demos.

"We have a great relationship with the VERSUS network, and we look forward to working with them to give UFC fans even more free fights in 2011," said Dana White, President of UFC.

The WEC was founded in 2001 and in 2007, announced a television deal with VERSUS, which has since televised 23 live events. The WEC on VERSUS has seen viewership growth each year since 2007 and in 2010 alone, 3.7 million viewers have so far tuned in to the five live WEC events on the network. VERSUS' two most notable WEC fights, which featured a Urijah Faber/Jens Pulver showdown in June 2008 and championship re-match between Urijah Faber and Mike Brown in June 2009, averaged more than 1.4 million viewers and made VERSUS the top cable network in the country among all key male demos for both telecasts.

VERSUS has also featured other WEC programming, including WEC WrekCAGE, a series featuring an explosive mix of VERSUS' best live events and the top matches from WEC events never before seen on television, as well as Best-of-Year shows and Greatest Knockouts specials.

Source: Versus

HDNET BRINGS YOU TEN HOURS OF MMA ACTION AND ANALYSIS THIS FRIDAY

Network's coverage features the premiere of "United Glory, 1st Round" and "Sengoku Raiden Championship 15" LIVE from Japan

DALLAS (October 28, 2010) HDNet, your home for MMA, is at it again! This weekend, the network will deliver ten hours of premiere MMA programming starting tomorrow, Friday, October 29 at 8:00 p.m. ET.

We kick off the night with a new "HDNet Fights Vault" featuring the four best fights from DREAM 10.

At 8:30 p.m. ET, Matt Lindland joins "Fighting Words with Mike Straka." No stranger to controversy, "The Law" opens up about his legal battle with the U.S. Olympic Committee, his feud with UFC president Dana White, and his thoughts on Affliction and IFL.

UFC heavyweight Pat Barry and WEC lightweight challenger Anthony Pettis join Kenny and Bas on "Inside MMA" at 9:00 p.m. ET for a look back at Cain Velasquez's historic victory at UFC 121. Mike Straka has exclusive on-site coverage including comments from the new champion and UFC President Dana White. Plus, Ron Kruck continues his "Inside America's Gyms" series with a profile of Premier Fitness in Denver.

"HDNet Fights: United Glory, 1st Round" premieres at 10:00 p.m. ET. The event features both the first round of United Glory's World Series of MMA and kickboxing. The MMA bracket is highlighted by Roan Carneiro (14-8) and John Alessio (30-13), while Gokhan Saki (72-13-1) is the favorite in the kickboxing draw. The broadcast team pairs Mauro Ranallo with Bas Rutten in a reunion of the beloved Pride announce team.

The evening culminates with the LIVE broadcast of "HDNet Fights: Sengoku Raiden Championship 15" at 2:00 a.m. ET from Tokyo, Japan. The event features former Olympic Judo Silver medalist Hiroshi Izumi (2-1) vs. James Zikic (18-6-2), Kazunori Yokota (11-3-3) vs. Brian Cobb (16-6), Maximo Blanco (6-2-1) vs. Kiuma Kunioku (34-23-9), plus the SRC Welterweight Grand Prix Semifinals and the SRC Asian Bantamweight Grand Prix Quarterfinals.

Don't miss the packed weekend of MMA action, all beginning tomorrow night at 8:00 p.m. ET on HDNet!

About HDNet

HDNet (www.hd.net) is the independent network with unique and thought-provoking content that appeals to men of all ages and is delivered in true high definition.

HDNet is the exclusive, high definition home for popular, original programming, including television's only HD news feature programs "HDNet World Report," and the Emmy Award winning "Dan Rather Reports," featuring legendary journalist Dan Rather. Only HDNet goes beyond the headlines to deliver real news that is redefining the way we look at our world. HDNet News is provocative, sometimes controversial and always relevant - telling the important stories of our time in-depth, with attitude and with independence. HDNet is also the exclusive high definition home to critically acclaimed and award winning documentaries as part of the InFocus series. "NASA on HDNet" presents all live shuttle launches through 2010.

HDNet presents championship sports coverage featuring the best of Mixed Martial Arts with its Friday night series, "HDNet Fights" (www.hdnetfights.com). "HDNet Fights" works with leading MMA promoters including DREAM, Sengoku, King of the Cage, XFC, M-1, K-1, K-1 Max, MFC, Adrenaline and more. HDNet produces more live Mixed Martial Arts events than any other network and HDNet's "Inside MMA" is the hottest Mixed Martial Arts program on television, giving MMA fans their weekly fix for everything MMA, while "Fighting Words with Mike Straka," goes one-on-one with some of the biggest names in the sport. HDNet also features regular season games from the newly formed United Football League.

HDNet also delivers the world's largest and most diverse concert line-up through the HDNet Concert Series. The HDNet Concert Series features leading artists and bands including Paul McCartney, Mariah Carey, John Mayer, Nickelback and more. HDNet also features revealing lifestyle programming featuring "Art Mann Presents," "Girls Gone Wild," "Deadline" and "Get Out!"

Only HDNet Movies (www.hdnetmovies.com) delivers exclusive Sneak Previews of new movies before they hit theaters. The HDNet Movies Sneak Preview series features top Hollywood stars in critically acclaimed performances including Gwyneth Paltrow, Joaquin Phoenix, Demi Moore, Michael Caine, Tom Hanks, Vera Farmiga, Parker Posey, Brian Cox, Matthew Broderick, Brittany Snow, Eric Bana, John Malkovich, Emily Blunt, Robin Williams, Charlize Theron and Kim Basinger.

In addition to being the exclusive home of Sneak Previews, HDNet Movies viewers enjoy the best films from the classics of the 1950s-1970s, to favorite films from the 1980s and 1990s, to recently released theatrical films.

HDNet Movies offers subscribers a premium movie viewing experience in true HD, and more original movies shot entirely in HD than any other network.

Launched in 2001 by Mark Cuban and General Manager Philip Garvin, the HDNet networks are available on AT&T U-verse, Charter, Comcast, DIRECTV, DISH Network, Insight, and Verizon FiOS.

The HDNet networks can be followed via Facebook at facebook.com/HDNet, facebook.com/HDNetFights and facebook.com/HDNetMovies and via Twitter at twitter.com/hdnet, twitter.com/hdnetfights and twitter.com/hdnetmovies.

Source: HDNet

Updated Lineup - UFC 126 (Super Bowl Weekend)

Mandalay Bay Events Center
Las Vegas, Nevada
Saturday, February 05, 2011
Live on PPV @ 10:00 PM ET
Card subject to change

* Vitor Belfort vs. Anderson Silva - Middleweight title
* Rich Franklin vs. Forrest Griffin - light heavyweights
* Ryan Bader vs. Jon Jones - light heavyweights
* Evan Dunham vs. Kenny Florian - lightweights
* Waylon Lowe vs. ??? - lightweights

Updated Lineup - UFC 127 (Super Bowl Weekend)

MGM Grand Garden Arena
Las Vegas, Nevada
Saturday, February 05, 2011
Live on PPV @ 10:00 PM ET
Card subject to change

* Vitor Belfort vs. Anderson Silva - Middleweight title
* Rich Franklin vs. Forrest Griffin - light heavyweights
* Ryan Bader vs. Jon Jones - light heavyweights
* Waylon Lowe vs. ??? - lightweights

LIVE "INSIDE MMA" KICKS OFF AN ACTION-PACKED NIGHT OF SPORTS ON HDNET

A Special Edition of "Inside MMA" precedes LIVE UFL Action - and Straka chats with Clay Guida on "Fighting Words" - all this Friday night October 8 on HDNet!

DALLAS (October 7, 2010) Live sports take front and center this Friday night as HDNet presents a special LIVE "Inside MMA," airing just prior to exclusive UFL action, as the sellout sensation Omaha Nighthawks travel to Las Vegas to take on the Locomotives.

But first, kicking off the night at 8:30 p.m. ET, "Fighting Words with Mike Straka" presents a special interview with Clay "The Carpenter" Guida. Guida, one of the most exciting fighters in the UFC lightweight division, last fought at UFC 117 and submitted Raphael dos Anjos after breaking his jaw in the first round.

"I try to be very Randy Couture-esque," Guida tells Straka. "I try to mold myself after one of the greatest champions of the sport."

A clip of Straka's interview with Guida can be found at the following link: http://blog.hdnetfights.com/post/1251121393/fighting-words-clay-guida

Next, at 9:00 p.m. ET, Kenny, Bas and Ron go live from Sam Boyd stadium in Las Vegas for a special edition of "Inside MMA" featuring this week's guest, Vitor Belfort - who will be fighting Anderson Silva for the UFC middleweight championship sometime in 2011. This week the panel reviews last weekend's K-1 World GP event, and looks ahead to this weekend's Strikeforce card.

A preview clip of the program can be found here: http://blog.hdnetfights.com/post/1263970725/inside-mma-preview

Then, it's onto live football as Kenny Rice and Paul Maguire call all the action from Las Vegas as the (2-0) Nighthawks, lead by Quarterback Jeff Garcia, look to stay alone at the top of the UFL as they take on the (1-1) Las Vegas Locomotives. A win in Vegas would allow Omaha some distance between itself and the rest of the league, while a loss would bring them back to the UFL pack.

Join us for an exciting night of live action and analysis - all on HDNet this Friday, October 8 - beginning at 8:30 p.m. ET.

About HDNet

HDNet (www.hd.net) is the independent network with unique and thought-provoking content that appeals to men of all ages and is delivered in true high definition.

HDNet is the exclusive, high definition home for popular, original programming, including television's only HD news feature programs "HDNet World Report," and the Emmy Award winning "Dan Rather Reports," featuring legendary journalist Dan Rather. Only HDNet goes beyond the headlines to deliver real news that is redefining the way we look at our world. HDNet News is provocative, sometimes controversial and always relevant - telling the important stories of our time in-depth, with attitude and with independence. HDNet is also the exclusive high definition home to critically acclaimed and award winning documentaries as part of the InFocus series. "NASA on HDNet" presents all live shuttle launches through 2010.

HDNet presents championship sports coverage featuring the best of Mixed Martial Arts with its Friday night series, "HDNet Fights" (www.hdnetfights.com). "HDNet Fights" works with leading MMA promoters including DREAM, Sengoku, King of the Cage, XFC, M-1, K-1, K-1 Max, MFC, Adrenaline and more. HDNet produces more live Mixed Martial Arts events than any other network and HDNet's "Inside MMA" is the hottest Mixed Martial Arts program on television, giving MMA fans their weekly fix for everything MMA, while "Fighting Words with Mike Straka," goes one-on-one with some of the biggest names in the sport. HDNet also features regular season games from the newly formed United Football League.

HDNet also delivers the world's largest and most diverse concert line-up through the HDNet Concert Series. The HDNet Concert Series features leading artists and bands including Paul McCartney, Mariah Carey, John Mayer, Nickelback and more. HDNet also features revealing lifestyle programming featuring "Art Mann Presents," "Girls Gone Wild," "Deadline" and "Get Out!"

Only HDNet Movies (www.hdnetmovies.com) delivers exclusive Sneak Previews of new movies before they hit theaters. The HDNet Movies Sneak Preview series features top Hollywood stars in critically acclaimed performances including Gwyneth Paltrow, Joaquin Phoenix, Demi Moore, Michael Caine, Tom Hanks, Vera Farmiga, Parker Posey, Brian Cox, Matthew Broderick, Brittany Snow, Eric Bana, John Malkovich, Emily Blunt, Robin Williams, Charlize Theron and Kim Basinger.

In addition to being the exclusive home of Sneak Previews, HDNet Movies viewers enjoy the best films from the classics of the 1950s-1970s, to favorite films from the 1980s and 1990s, to recently released theatrical films.

HDNet Movies offers subscribers a premium movie viewing experience in true HD, and more original movies shot entirely in HD than any other network.

Launched in 2001 by Mark Cuban and General Manager Philip Garvin, the HDNet networks are available on AT&T U-verse, Charter, Comcast, DIRECTV, DISH Network, Insight, and Verizon FiOS.

The HDNet networks can be followed via Facebook at facebook.com/HDNet, facebook.com/HDNetFights and facebook.com/HDNetMovies and via Twitter at twitter.com/hdnet, twitter.com/hdnetfights and twitter.com/hdnetmovies.

Source: HDNet

MMA HEAVYWEIGHT SUPERSTAR JOSH BARNETT SIGNS WITH STRIKEFORCE

NEW YORK (Sept. 13, 2010) – Two-time champion and top world-ranked heavyweight superstar Josh “The Babyfaced Assassin” Barnett has signed a multi-fight agreement to compete for world championship Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) promotion STRIKEFORCE.

“STRIKEFORCE is the home of the best heavyweight division in the world and I’m proud to be able to call it my home now,” said the 32-year-old Barnett (29-5), an expert in catch wrestling who hails from Seattle, Wash.

“I’m looking forward to competing amongst the greatest fighters in the world and fighting my way to another world title.”

The 6-foot-3, 255-pound Barnett became the youngest UFC champion in history at age 24 when he scored a second-round TKO (4:35) on MMA legend Randy “The Natural” Couture in Las Vegas, Nev., on March 22, 2002. In his sixth career fight, Barnett submitted wrestling and MMA legend Dan “The Beast” Severn with an armbar in the fourth round (1:21) in Hawaii.

In addition to his achievements in America, Barnett has spent a good portion of his career competing in top tier promotions overseas, including the now defunct PRIDE Fighting Championships in Japan where he notched memorable victories over the likes of Aleksander Emelianenko, Mark Hunt and Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira. On Oct. 21, 2006, Barnett took part in PRIDE’s first event on U.S. soil, submitting Pawel Nastula with a toe hold in the second round (3:04) at Las Vegas’s Thomas & Mack Center.

In 2008, Barnett competed in another Japanese promotion, Sengoku. After submitting (heel hook) Hidehiko Yoshida in Tokyo on March 5, 2008, Barnett returned to action on May 18, 2008, and earned a unanimous decision over top-ranked rival and fellow American Jeff “The Snowman” Monson.

Barnett signed an agreement to compete in Japan’s DREAM promotion earlier this year. Last March 22, he made his debut with the organization, submitting former K-1 tournament champion and devastating power puncher, “Mighty Mo” Siligia, with a kimura at 4:41 of the first round.

On July 10, Barnett followed up the strong showing with a first-round TKO (punches) over Geronimo dos Santos in the main event of a fight card in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.

About STRIKEFORCE

STRIKEFORCE (www.strikeforce.com) is a world-class mixed martial arts cage fight promotion which, on Friday, March 10, 2006, made history with its "Shamrock vs. Gracie" event, the first sanctioned mixed martial arts fight card in California state history. The star-studded extravaganza, which pitted legendary champion Frank Shamrock against Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt Cesar Gracie at San Jose's HP Pavilion, played host to a sold-out, record crowd of 18,265. Since 1995, STRIKEFORCE, sanctioned by ISKA, has been the exclusive provider of martial arts programming for ESPN and, after 12 years of success as a leading, world championship kickboxing promotion, the company unveiled its mixed martial arts (MMA) series with "Shamrock vs. Gracie." In May 2008, West Coast Productions, the parent company of STRIKEFORCE, partnered with Silicon Valley Sports & Entertainment (SVS&E), an entity created in 2000 to oversee all business operation aspects of the San Jose Sharks and HP Pavilion at San Jose. In March 2009, STRIKEFORCE signed a multi-year agreement with SHOWTIME® to stage live events on the premium cable television network. The promotion has since also produced two live, primetime events on the CBS Television Network.

Source: Strikeforce

NYWC Results - 9/11 - Featuring WWE Superstar Daniel Bryan!

NYWC results from “Never Back Down”
September 11, 2010
The Sports Arena: 620 Middle Country Road.
Saint James, New York 11776

Chris Forza defeated Lucas Mosquito

Quiet Storm def. Appolyon w/Crusher Doogan

Dickie Rodz, Francis Kipland Stevens and Wendell defeated The Dirty Rednex

Spyder vs. Benny Martinez went to a no contest when Victor Cruz & Manny Martinez interfered. All Money Is Legal hit the ring to make the save but shortly after their appearance, All Money Is Legal turned on Benny and joined Uninvited.

NYWC Tag Team Championship
ECW Legend Mikey Whipwreck and Syther defeated Big Time Rush (“Big Time” Tony Burma and Ryan “The Adrenaline” Rush) to become the NEW NYWC Tag Tea Champions!

Victor Cruz and Manny Martinez defeated “Platinum” Pat Buck and DJ Phat Pat

Right before the next match, Josh Daniels entered the ring from the crowd and attacked Referee Nick Bonanno. After the brutal beating Josh Daniels got on the microphone and verbally attacked NYWC and its new students at the NYWC Training Academy.

Kieran Mansfield w/Michael Mansfield defeated TNA Superstar Rob Eckos w/ the "Blow Out Boy" Dan Eckos

Stockade and "Genocide Junkie" Daemon Crowley w/Crusher Doogan defeated CIA (Tony Luke and Bruno Marciano)

NYWC Fusion Championship
“Number 1” John Silver defeated King Mega via submission.
Still NYWC Fusion Champion “Number 1” John Silver!

Main Event
NYWC Champion "Maverick" Tony Nese & WWE Superstar Daniel Bryan w/Maxwell Belvedere defeated The "Greek God" Dimitrios Papadon & "Yours Truly" Alex Reynolds w/Prince Charles.

The NYWC returns September 24 with “Chained” featuring a special appearance by WWE Superstar Matt Striker!

Also announced for “Chained”:

Butler vs The Boss

Maxwell Belvedere vs. "Yours Truly" Alex Reynolds

Dog Collar Match
NYWC Champion "Maverick" Tony Nese vs The "Greek God" Dimitrios Papadon

Call (631) 667-6992 (NYWC) for more info and to inquire about advance ticket sales or visit our website.
Visit NYWCwrestling.com for more info
Follow us on twitter at twitter.com/NYWCWRESTLING
Find us on Facebook at New York Wrestling Connection

Source: New York Wrestling Connection

Southern All-Star Wrestling Results From 9/10/2010

Millersville, Tennessee - Southern All-Star Wrestling at SAW Arena: "Limited Edition" Lee Cross def. Lightning Bolt Kid...Hammerjack defeated "Luscious"David Matthews...The Wildboys (Steve Neely & Ben Jordan) def. Kevin & Cody Weatherby..."The Real Deal" Derrick Neal def. "Impressive" Anthony Wayne and Josh Crow in a triple threat match..."Headliner" Chris Michaels with Miss Ashley def. Mike Jablonski. (9-10-10).

Source: Lekisha F. Oliver

If, At First, You Don't Succeed ...

Keep on sucking, 'til you do succeed, I guess.

Hulk Hogan, just one-year, or so, removed from an embittered divorce of longtime wife Linda, minutes removed from a recent hospital stay (for a bad back), and minutes away from another hospital stay (he needs a bigger MRI), has told TMZ that, in essence, life's too short and he's now looking to quickly marry fiancee Jennifer McDaniel.

DVD Review: Woodshop Starring Jesse Ventura

Jesse Ventura has had quite the adventurous life. In the early 70’s he was a Navy Seal, In The Mid 70’s and over the 2 decades that would follow, he would make a name for himself in the world of professional wrestling as ”The Body.” It’s without a doubt that his time in pro wrestling opened up many avenues for him, one obviously being the political route which saw him serve as a mayor and later governor in Minnesota, but like many wrestlers before and after him, it opened up doors in the acting world. Over the years Ventura has had roles in Predator, Zorro, and Demolition Man, but now in 2010 he is featured in a much smaller scale film entitled “Woodshop” which is now available on DVD from 42 Productions.

This independent production is a teenage “dramedy” set in a high school woodshop class. The film plays out over a single Saturday at the high school shop class where class valedictorian Chris Johnson is sent to serve out a detention for having accidently concocted a mini rocket in chemistry class. Little did Chris expect to have to face quite the number of obstacles to survive the day. Amongst his fellow Woodshopers are all your typical high school characters, the best friend, the bully, the tomboy, and the stoner with a hidden genius.

Ventura plays the role of Mr. Madson, an ex army ranger who now teaches woodshop at the local high school. Longtime fans of Jesse will be reminded of his days as The Body as his character is reminiscent of his days in the wrestling world. To be honest, Ventura is the bright spot of this film, his performance is quite enjoyable.

It’s no major spoiler to say that the premise of the film is dealing with a high school bully. Director Pete Coggan deserves credit for doing a decent job of capturing the teenage character type of this day and age, although its done in a slightly cheesy and typical type of way in that the characters traits are spot on but the play out of the story is slightly off, but then again this is the movie world so I guess you have to expect such a thing.

With a low budget film comes the potential for some low quality production, In the case of Woodshop, the audio quality is what suffers. Eventhough the majority of the film is set in what is a fairly empty school, and fairly empty shop class, where in real life the audio would come off the way it does, echoy and hard to understand, this however is a film, and unfortunately its sometimes hard to understand what the characters are saying due to the poor audio quality. I sometimes had to refer to the subtitles to make sure who said what. Meanwhile I found the video quality to be more than acceptable as in this day and age with high quality cameras coming down in price its hard not to get some decent looking footage.

The IMDB page for Woodshop lists the Tag Line as “It's easy to convince yourself that life is a collection of unhappy memories where no good deed goes unpunished... It's not” And although that tag line is no where to be see on the DVD cover, it is the basic message this film tries to get across. If you’re a big Jesse Ventura fan, or for that matter a fan of independent film, Woodshop is worth a look, Im not sure that many indy films hit the rental shelves anymore, but if this does I’d call this a Rent It.

Woodshop is now available on DVD from 42 Productions, You can pick up your own copy at local retailers or via online retailers such as Amazon. For more information check out www.woodshopmovie.com, and to read my previous DVD Reviews check out http://www.wrestlingdvdreviews.vze.com.

Source: Main Event Radio's Steven Wilson

Thanx, Everyone!

Sure, I live every day like it's my birthday, but all of your well-wishes fucking rock!

Authentic Brands Group Acquires TapouT And Silver Star Casting Company

NEW YORK and LOS ANGELES and TORONTO, Sept. 7 -- Authentic Brands Group, LLC, with offices in New York, Los Angeles, and Toronto, is proud to announce the acquisition of TapouT and Silver Star Casting Company (Silver Star), two of the biggest names in the mixed martial arts (MMA) industry. MMA is the world's fastest growing sport with billions of dollars in annual revenue and global appeal. Authentic Brands Group acquired TapouT and Silver Star as part of its multi-branded distribution strategy designed to protect brand integrity.

Authentic Brands Group has global brand building experience in apparel, action sports, consumer electronics, home and celebrity brands. The company's innovative marketing strategies include traditional and social media, and securing partnerships with high profile athletes and celebrities.

Authentic Brands Group's Chairman & CEO Jamie Salter said, "This sport is still in its infancy. We strategically chose these acquisitions as our first big move because we're getting into the right business at the right time. We're looking forward to working with the best brands and the best athletes in the world as we transition these two companies into global lifestyle brands with our retail and licensing partners."

With the acquisition of TapouT, Authentic Brands Group now owns the number one MMA lifestyle brand in the world, a brand name that has become synonymous with the sport itself. TapouT has global brand awareness that has grown alongside the MMA over the last 15 years by staying focused on the athletes and the fans. Built by three impassioned men who trained in MMA, the late Charles "Mask" Lewis, Dan "Punkass" Caldwell and Timm "Skyskrape" Katz, TapouT has maintained its authenticity through its rapid growth by staying deeply rooted in the MMA culture.

Caldwell said, "TapouT is more than a company or a brand to me, it is a way of life. With the passing of my best friend and co-founder Charles "Mask" Lewis, we've been through a lot. Now we are focused on continuing to set the standard as the industry leader, bringing to life Mask's dream of building a billion dollar empire. Authentic Brands Group understands what TapouT is about and they share our vision. Mask always said to simply 'believe' and that one word became our formula for success. We believe in Authentic Brands Group and they believe in us."

Silver Star Casting Company is a lifestyle apparel brand that has made its mark in the MMA, action sports and motor sports industries. Founder and President of Silver Star Luke Burrett, and his wife/business partner Charis Burrett, have successfully marketed the brand across these sport categories by supporting athletes and keeping them accessible to the fans. Silver Star is committed to sponsoring only champion level athletes such as MMA middleweight champion Anderson Silva and fan favorite Clay Guida.

"Charis and I are extremely excited to work with the Authentic Brands Group team to take Silver Star to the next level. We've built our brand on staying true to our passion for sponsoring champions and making high quality products," said Luke Burrett. "We are confident that having Authentic Brands Group behind us will allow us to realize our goals and the potential of the brand."

About TapouT

TapouT is the world's leading MMA apparel, gear and lifestyle brand for men, women and children and represents the biggest MMA superstars including Rashad Evans, Rich Franklin, Dan Hardy, Thiago Alves, Chael Sonnen and Roy Nelson. TapouT boasts a sought-after clothing line, a TV reality show, TapouT Radio and is the official apparel brand for Spike TV's hit reality show "The Ultimate Fighter." TapouT can be purchased in more than 20,000 retail stores worldwide. Brand names under the TapouT business entity include TapouT, TapouT MPS, and Hitman Fight Gear.

www.TapouT.com
www.hitmanfightgear.com

About Silver Star Casting Company

Silver Star Casting Company was founded in 1993 as an athletic lifestyle brand built for champions. Silver Star has a dedicated and loyal consumer base inside mixed martial arts, action sports, motor sports and Hollywood through athlete and celebrity endorsements and has built its reputation as an original, art-driven, edgy and confident trend setter. The Silver Star brand is an official sponsor of the UFC at the mid to upper-tier level of distribution, and its sub-brand Iron Star is available at the mid-tier to mass retail level.

www.silverstarnow.com.

About Authentic Brands Group LLC

Authentic Brands Group's mission, in partnership with Leonard Green & Partners and Knights Bridge Capital Inc. a wholly owned subsidiary of Counsel Corporation, is to acquire a global portfolio of world-renowned brands and to enhance brand equity through partnering with best-in-class brand licensees. ABG acquires iconic consumer brands in the active lifestyle, celebrity, media & entertainment, sporting goods, and consumer electronics segments. Currently the company holds TapouT, Tapout MPS, Silver Star Casting Company, Hitman Fight Gear, and Iron Star in its growing portfolio. The company also manages the Bob Marley family of brands.

www.authenticbrandsgroup.com

Source: Authentic Brands Group, LLC

WWE Superstar Matt Striker Coming To NYWC!

The NYWC in association with Autism Speaks is proud to announce that on Friday, September 24, 2010 WWE Superstar Matt Striker will appear at "Chained." Matt Striker is currently the host of NXT and the voice of Friday Night Smackdown. Striker makes his long awaited return to the NYWC with a very special edition of Matt Striker's Classroom which will feature the NYWC Dating Game. Striker is taking time out of his very busy schedule to help raise money for Autism Speaks, so with that said a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Autism Speaks.

Be sure not to miss the NYWC this Saturday, September 11th, when WWE Superstar Daniel Bryan and TNA Superstar Rob Eckos invade the NYWC!

Call (631) 667-6992 (NYWC) for more info and to inquire about advance ticket sales.

Follow us on twitter at twitter.com/NYWCWRESTLING
Find us on Facebook at New York Wrestling Connection

See you at the show! WWE Superstar Daniel Bryan will be there, so should you!

Source: New York Wrestling Connection

HDNET'S "INSIDE MMA" FEATURES EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH THE MOST VOCAL CRITIC OF MIXED MARTIAL ARTS

New York State Assemblyman Bob Reilly Defends His Opposition to the Legalization of MMA - Friday, September 3 at 9:00 p.m. ET on HDNet

DALLAS (September 2, 2010) Assemblyman Bob Reilly is the man leading the charge against legalizing mixed martial arts in the state of New York, and tomorrow night on "Inside MMA," the sport's most vocal critic explains his opposition in Part One of an exclusive two-part interview.

"What attracts people to Ultimate Fighting unfortunately is the violence and violence is not good for our society," Reilly says. "The difference between mixed martial arts and every other sport is that in mixed martial arts the purpose is to damage your opponent."

A clip of Reilly's comments is available at: http://www.hd.net/insidemma.html

Kenny Rice and Bas Rutten are joined on the panel this week by Randy and Ryan Couture and Bellator Middleweight Champion Hector Lombard, all who strongly disagree with Reilly's statements.

"I think it's an uneducated view," says Randy Couture. "He doesn't understand our sport. We're not crazy, we're not dangerous, this is not violence, it's a combative sport."

Also on this week's show, the Coutures discuss their respective recent victories in the cage, and Lombard talks about his upcoming title defense.

Plus, Ron Kruck has breaking news on a Bellator fighter who isn't letting a recent diagnosis with leukemia keep him out of the gym, and the "Inside America's Gyms" series continues with a look at the Grudge Training Center in Wheat Ridge, CO.

About HDNet

HDNet (www.hd.net) is the independent network with unique and thought-provoking content that appeals to men of all ages and is delivered in true high definition.

HDNet is the exclusive, high definition home for popular, original programming, including television's only HD news feature programs "HDNet World Report," and the Emmy Award winning "Dan Rather Reports," featuring legendary journalist Dan Rather. Only HDNet goes beyond the headlines to deliver real news that is redefining the way we look at our world. HDNet News is provocative, sometimes controversial and always relevant - telling the important stories of our time in-depth, with attitude and with independence. HDNet is also the exclusive high definition home to critically acclaimed and award winning documentaries as part of the InFocus series. "NASA on HDNet" presents all live shuttle launches through 2010.

HDNet presents championship sports coverage featuring the best of Mixed Martial Arts with its Friday night series, "HDNet Fights" (www.hdnetfights.com). "HDNet Fights" works with leading MMA promoters including DREAM, Sengoku, King of the Cage, XFC, K-1, K-1 Max, MFC and more. HDNet produces more live Mixed Martial Arts events than any other network and HDNet's "Inside MMA" is the hottest Mixed Martial Arts program on television, giving MMA fans their weekly fix for everything MMA, while "Fighting Words with Mike Straka," goes one-on-one with some of the biggest names in the sport. HDNet also features live coverage of regular season games from the second season of the United Football League.

HDNet also delivers the world's largest and most diverse concert line-up through the HDNet Concert Series. The HDNet Concert Series features leading artists and bands including Paul McCartney, Mariah Carey, John Mayer, Nickelback and more. HDNet also features revealing lifestyle programming featuring "Art Mann Presents," "Girls Gone Wild," "Deadline" and "Get Out!"

Only HDNet Movies (www.hdnetmovies.com) delivers exclusive Sneak Previews of new movies before they hit theaters. The HDNet Movies Sneak Preview series features top Hollywood stars in critically acclaimed performances including Gwyneth Paltrow, Joaquin Phoenix, Demi Moore, Michael Caine, Tom Hanks, Vera Farmiga, Parker Posey, Brian Cox, Matthew Broderick, Brittany Snow, Eric Bana, John Malkovich, Emily Blunt, Robin Williams, Charlize Theron and Kim Basinger.

In addition to being the exclusive home of Sneak Previews, HDNet Movies viewers enjoy the best films from the classics of the 1950s-1970s, to favorite films from the 1980s and 1990s, to recently released theatrical films.

HDNet Movies offers subscribers a premium movie viewing experience in true HD, and more original movies shot entirely in HD than any other network.

Launched in 2001 by Mark Cuban and General Manager Philip Garvin, the HDNet networks are available on AT&T U-verse, Charter, Comcast, DIRECTV, DISH Network, Insight, and Verizon FiOS.

The HDNet networks can be followed via Facebook at facebook.com/HDNet, facebook.com/HDNetFights and facebook.com/HDNetMovies and via Twitter at twitter.com/hdnet, twitter.com/hdnetfights and twitter.com/hdnetmovies.

Source: HDNet

R. I. MMA Fans To Taste ‘First Blood’ In Historic Show

Campbell-Almeida headline inaugural R.I. MMA show Sept. 17 at Twin River Event Center, RI

PROVIDENCE (Aug. 31, 2010) – History will be made Friday night, Sept. 17 when “First Blood” becomes the first sanctioned, professional Mixed Martial Arts show ever held in Rhode Island.

“First Blood,” presented by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment and Sports, Inc., (CES) will be held at the Twin River Event Center in Lincoln, RI. All fights feature three, 5-minute rounds.

The main event pits arguably New England’s hottest prospect, Providence lightweight Mike “The Beast” Campbell (8-2-0), against undefeated Magno Almeida (6-0), of Wakefield (MA). In an exciting match-up of contrasting styles, Campbell has five knockouts, while five of Almeida’s six opponents have tapped-put.

In the co-feature, Bridgewater (MA) heavyweight Lee Beane (7-1-0) takes on Parker Porter (3-1-0), while Wakefield (MA) welterweight Rick Hawn (8-0-0) faces an opponent to be determined.

“Fighting is fighting and we know what fans want – fast action, entertainment and competitive matches,” CES president Jimmy Burchfield said. “We’re taking the same grassroots promoting and marketing plan we’ve used so successfully for many years in boxing and taking it into MMA. I’ve been studying MMA for nearly three years in order to learn how to build the best team possible. Boxing plays a big part in MMA. Some athletic boxers want to try MMA, some powerful-punching strikers want to box. CES is now in the unique position to offer boxers and MMA fighters opportunities to cross over.

“Our goal is to develop MMA fighters and help bring them to the top of the mountain – UFC. We have a good relationship with UFC Vice President of Regulatory Affairs, Mark Ratner, from when he was Executive Director of the Nevada State Athletic Commission. We believe our first show has the potential to be the best show ever in New England in terms of showcasing New England talent. We will have some of the best in action on ‘First Blood.’ We’re thrilled to be having this great show at our home base in beautiful Twin River.”

Also scheduled to fight on “First Blood” are Cranston’s (RI) Luis “Rock Star” Felix (4-5-0) vs. Joe Dechaves (3-2-0); Woonsocket’s pro-debuting lightweight Justin Switzer vs. Cranston’s Eric Fams; Maine welterweight Glenn Reaves vs. pro-debuting Bill Burley; Whitman (MA) featherweight John Campbell in his pro debut vs. Kurt Calash, of Middleton (CT); and Somerville (MA) lightweight Jimmy “Jimbo Slice” Davidson in his first fight vs. John Sienna (0-1-1).

Also on the card against opponents to be determined are undefeated Framingham (MA) light heavyweight Saul “The Spider” Almeida (7-0-0), Ludlow (MA) lightweight Alexandre “Vaca” Moreno (10-2-0), East Greenwich (RI) and Rhode Island MMA pioneer Mat Santos, along with welterweights Lionel Young (2-4-0), Antwann Penn and Mark Skeltcher. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets for “First Blood,” priced at $50.00, $75.00, $125.00, $150.00 and $200.00 (front row) are available to purchase by calling CES (401.724.2253/2254), going online at www.cesboxing.com or www.twinriver.com, at Twin River’s Players Club booth at Twin River, or any TicketMaster location.

Contact CES (401.724.2253/2254/www.cesboxing.com) or the Twin River Event Center (877.82.RIVER/ www.twinriver.com) for more information. Doors open at 6:00PM/ET, first bout at 7:30 PM/ET.

(Twin River has waived its 18+ rule for “First Blood.” Anybody under the age of 18 must be accompanied at all times by an adult and they must enter through the West entrance.)

Press Conference Quotes

Mike Campbell: “To be part of the first MMA show in Rhode Island, I’m so excited to be part of it. I have goose-bumps right now….honestly. I’m gonna bring it; I never give boring shows. I promise you’re going to see fireworks. We bleed and sweat together and it’s my honor to fighting on this card with these fighters. It’s going to be war.”

Mat Santos: “I was on the very first card in Rhode Island. They called it Vale Tudo. There wasn’t a law against it but it was legal, 11 years ago. I was in the Army in 1993 when I saw my first MMA fight. It looked like fun and that’s why it went from a hobby to my lifeblood. I train six days a week, every week, whether I have a fight or not. I haven’t fought in four years, not necessarily because of lack of trying. This is the fifth fight set-up for me but opponents pulled out. Anybody that hits the ground against me, I’ll finish them. I’m 100-percent confident that I will submit him. There’s nobody out there I don’t have an answer for. This isn’t going to be a boring Jiu-Jitsu fight. If I can’t take him down, I’ll beat him on my feet. The past 11 years I’ve fought all over in rings, cages and even open mats, but now I’m finally fighting at home.”

Parker Porter: “I’m glad to be here. It’ll be my closest fight to home being from Southington, Connecticut. The last guy to beat Lee is in the UFC; the last guy to beat me is in the UFC. I’m looking forward to sizing us up. I promise you I’m going to bring it.”

Saul Almeida: I haven’t fought in a while. I just came back from training two months in California with some of the best MMA fighters in the world like Anderson Silva. It’s going to be a really entertaining fight. You won’t want to miss it.”

Lionel Young: “I’m still a baby at this – I’ve only been doing it for a year. This is my biggest fight. I promise to go into the cage and give every ounce in my body.”

Luis Felix: I’m excited to be fighting here in my backyard. It’s something I’ve looked forward to ever since I got into MMA. September 17th I’ll be here to fight. I don’t go into any fight hating my opponent. This is a sport and I love to do it. After the fight we can be friends. I’m willing to put everything on the line. This is my ultimate challenge. I look forward to putting on a good show.”

Joe Dechaves: “It’s an awesome time – Rhode Island history – to be fighting on this card. Felix is a good fighter. I’ve seen some of his fights. I’ve been training hard and I’ll be ready September 17th. It’s a special fight for me. I’m dedicating it to my father who died in July, on my wedding day, so this fight means more to be than anything.”

Source: Full Court Press