Xtreme Cage Fighting Association

[shady1]

XTREME CAGE FIGHTING ASSOCIATION
XCFA #5
'The Lightweights'

Prelims
Lightweight Bout: Albert Cheng (6-3) vs Colin Fletcher (12-6)
Opening up the show was a battle between two international lightweight standouts as Albert Cheng took on Colin Fletcher. The fight whilst not a technical masterclass by any means was very much an entertaining one. As neither man showed much technique in this scrap and instead looked content to mix it up with a wild brawl across the opening two rounds. As the third round came out and the fight being anyone's game Cheng landed a wild overhand left which dropped Freakshow before following him to the ground in an effort to secure the stoppage. Unfortunately this proved to be a costly mistake as Fletcher soon was able to take control on the ground and secure a rear naked choke for the submission.
Result: Colin Fletcher (13-6) defeated Albert Cheng (6-4) by submission (Rear Naked Choke) at 2:21 in the 3rd round.

Lightweight Bout: Zhang LiPeng (16-9-1) vs Justin Salas (12-7)
The former Ultimate Fighter China winner Zhang LiPeng showed his continued development since the show. As his non stop pressure style was able to consistently press Justin Salas against the fence before forcing him down to the ground with takedowns. After three rounds of this grueling action Zhang was awarded a unanimous decision victory to pick up his 8th straight win.
Result: Zhang LiPeng (17-9-1) defeated Justin Salas (12-8) by unanimous decision.

Lightweight Bout: Colton Smith (6-4) vs Ramsey Nijem (9-6)
Another Ultimate Fighter winner however was not so lucky. As TUF 16 Champion Colton Smith was out wrestled and out struck across all three rounds by the scrappy Ramsey Nijem. Who in doing so was able to break a 2 fight losing streak as he picked up a unanimous decision win.
Result: Ramsey Nijem (10-6) defeated Colton Smith (6-5) by unanimous decision.

Lightweight Bout: Piotr Hallmann (16-5) vs Daron Cruickshank (17-8)While the last two fights had been relatively tame affairs. In the next bout of the evening Daron Cruickshank proved he was not intent on letting this fight go to the judges. As after hurting Hallmann early on with a straight right hand. He never let up throwing all manner of strikes and combinations as he looked to put Piotr away before finally scoring a brutal knockout with a headkick late in the 1st round.
Result: Daron Cruickshank (18-8) defeated Piotr Hallmann (16-6) by KO at 4:42 in the 1st round.

Lightweight Bout: Mac Danzig (21-12-1) vs Gregor Gillespie (6-0)
TUF 6 Champion Mac Danzig came out of retirement for this next fight of the evening as he took on unbeaten prospect Gregor Gillespie. Unfortunately for Danzig this fight was very much more a showcase for Gillespie as he was able to show everyone just why he is as highly regarded a prospect as he is. Because whether it was on the feet or on the mat Gillespie dominated and controlled Danzig on his way to a clear cut decision win.
Result: Gregor Gillespie (7-0) defeated Mac Danzg (21-13-1) by unanimous decision.

Lightweight Bout: Terry Etim (16-5) vs Toby Imada (30-18-1)
A fun back and forth battle was the story of the next contest of the evening. As veterans Terry Etim and Toby Imada looked to regain some of their previous form. Unfortunately only one man could be victorious and after a back and forth 2 rounds of action a late knee by Etim was enough to put Imada down for the finish.
Result: Terry Etim (17-5) defeated Toby Imada (30-19-1) by KO at 3:59 in the 2nd round.

Lightweight Bout: Cosmo Alexandre (6-1) vs Matt Dwyer (8-4)
Finally on the last of the undercard striker Cosmo Alexandre made quick work of Matt Dwyer dropping him with a straight left early on before finishing him with a vicious series of knees for a KO victory.
Result: Cosmo Alexandre (7-1) defeated Matt Dwyer (8-5) by KO at 0:59 in the 1st round.

Main Card
Lightweight Bout: Mansour Barnaoui (12-4) vs Lowen Tynanes (9-0)
Kicking off the main card portion of the show as well as the Lightweight tournament. Unbeaten prospect Lowen Tynanes showed why he is being looked at as a potential favorite in this entire tournament as he quickly took down Mansour Barnaoui before wasting no time in attaining the mount. From this position Lowen rained down upon Mansour with punches for a TKO victory.
Result: Lowen Tynanes (10-0) defeated Mansour Barnaoui (12-5) by TKO at 1:12 in the 1st round.

Lightweight Bout: Lyle Beerbohm (24-3) vs Chris Horodecki (21-6-1)
Two veterans of the game looking to remain relevant did battle in the evening's next tournament match. Unfortunately though this match was very much a wrestling clinic as Lyle Beerbohm repeatedly brought Chris Horodecki down to the mat whilst never really taking any risks once he got him there. Instead choosing to maintain top control en route to a unanimous decision.
Result: Lyle Beerbohm (25-3) defeated Chris Horodecki (21-7-1) by unanimous decision.

Lightweight Bout: Pat Healy (33-21) vs Alexander Sarnavskiy (34-4)
Russia's Alexander Sarnavskiy was the next fighter of the evening to make an impressive statement in his three round battle with veteran Pat Healy. As not only was he able to keep the fight standing but he was constantly able to pick Healy apart with his striking on his way to a unanimous decision.
Result: Alexander Sarnavskiy (35-4) defeated Pat Healy (33-22) by unanimous decision

Lightweight Bout: KJ Noons (13-9) vs Marcus Davis (22-11)
Two skilled strikers faced off in the fourth tournament match of the evening. Unfortunately however for Marcus Davis it seemed that a combination of age as well as a long layoff affected him. As Noons quickly rocked him with a left cross before dropping Marcus with a vicious right uppercut for a knockout victory.
Result: KJ Noons (14-9) defeated Marcus Davis (22-12) by knockout at 0:32 in the 1st round.

Fight Announcement!
"When the Lightweights return for XCFA 12. Not only will fans be treated to the next round of the Lightweight title tournament. But they will also witness three very interesting fights confirmed here. The first of which will be a grudge match between two of the United Kingdom's greatest exports. As 'Stormin' Norman Parke (21-5-1) will take on Saul Rogers (10-1). Meanwhile two of the sport's greatest showmen will grace the cage once more as Akihiro Gono (34-20-8) will take on Genki Sudo (15-4-2). Lastly in a battle of the Lightweight greats looking to turn the clock back once more. Sean 'The Muscle Shark' Sherk (36-4-1) will battle Jens 'Little Evil' Pulver (27-19-1)"

Lightweight Bout: Danny Castillo (17-10) vs Ronys Torres (31-5)
In his first bout since his UFC departure it was safe to say Danny Castillo was looking to show the world he was still as good a fighter as he ever was. Unfortunately for the man known as Last Call he was matched up against Brazilian veteran Ronys Torres. Torres in the first round was not only able to keep the fight standing but he was also able to chew up the leg of Danny with some nasty leg kicks. These kicks were very much the story of the fight as any time Castillo looked to press forward Torres would again hit him with these shots on his way to a clear cut decision.
Result: Ronys Torres (32-5) defeated Danny Castillo (17-11) by unanimous decision.

Lightweight Bout: Rick Hawn (21-4) vs Mateusz Gamrot (11-0)
Unbeaten Polish standout Mateusz Gamrot faced the biggest test of his career as he took on Judo Olympian Rick Hawn in the next contest of the evening. Whilst some may have been expecting an exciting battle between these two fighters. Instead fans unfortunately saw 3 rounds of non stop clinch work with neither man really looking to take any risks. As the fight reached the score cards it was very much up in air as to who had won until it was announced that it was Hawn who took the split decision.
Result: Rick Hawn (22-4) defeated Mateusz Gamrot (11-1) by split decision.

Lightweight Bout: Gesias Cavalcante (19-8-1) vs Caol Uno (33-18-5)
When it was announced that Caol Uno was set to take part in the tournament. Many hoped that he would be able to turn the clock back once more. Unfortunately for Uno it didn't take long in the fight for a standing elbow by Cavalcante to signal the end. As it dropped Uno and several more shots followed for a quick and brutal finish.
Result: Gesias Cavalcante (20-8-1) defeated Caol Uno (33-19-5) by TKO at 0:59 in the 1st round

Lightweight Bout: Shinya Aoki (39-6) vs Rob Sinclair (13-3)
Finally in the last tournament fight of the evening. Grappling Ace Shinya Aoki wasted no time in getting the heavy handed brit Rob Sinclair to the mat before working him over with some ground and pound. As Sinclair covered up as best he could Aoki took an arm for an armbar victory.
Result: Shinya Aoki (40-6) defeated Rob Sinclair (13-4) by submission at 1:35 in the 1st round.

Press Conference Highlights
~ Andrew Ryan confirmed that veteran Yves Edwards has agreed to come out of retirement to fight at XCFA 12
~ A disappointed Danny Castillo said he was not happy with how his fight went and he'd like to show everyone what he is really capable of by fighting Will Brooks.

[Deleted]

An incredible booker you got here Dan!! This booker's resembled some of your best work on other areas of the booking scene.

I've chosen my favorite to be Marcus Davis, because well, people who are "M. Davis" are always the best. Not so thrilled you had him lose so quickly that fight. I mean, come on, 32 seconds in??

[shady1]

Introducing Featherweights

With the first tournament confirmed as being for the XCFA Featherweight Championship. The 16 men set to challenge for the title have now been unveiled. They are as followed..

Diego "DB" Brandao
Height: 5'7
Weight: 145 pounds
Country: Brazil
Record: 20-11
Notable Victories: Dennis Bermudez, Katsunori Kikuno,
Bio: Although a controversial entry due to his out of cage exploits as of late. There is no denying that a focused Diego Brandao is a very dangerous opponent for anyone. The Brazilian Ultimate Fighter 14 Champion is of course best known for his highly aggressive style in the cage not too mention his vicious finishing instincts. With power in his hands as well as slick submission skills Brandao is a tough fight for anyone and could be a contender here in this tournament.

Ivan "Buki" Buchinger
Height: 5'9
Weight: 145 pounds
Country: Slovakia
Record: 30-4
Notable Victories: Mansour Barnaoui, Steven Ray, Magomedrasul Khasbulaev
Bio: Although he may not boast the name value of some of the other competitors in this field. Slovakia's Ivan Buchinger on paper may very well be a favorite in this field. The veteran fighter of 34 fights has held titles in promotions such as M1 and Cage Warriors so far in his career whilst competing at both Featherweight and Lightweight. With great finishing instincts Buchinger is a threat to anyone having finished 24 of his victories with an impressive 16 of those coming by way of submission.

Tom "Fire Kid" Duquesnoy
Height: 5'7
Weight: 145 pounds
Country: France
Record: 13-1
Notable Victories:
Bio: Although only 22 years of age there is a lot of hype on Tom Duquesnoy at this moment in time. The Frenchman who started MMA at the age of 18 has spent years training in arts such as Sambo and Thai Boxing before fully committing to MMA in 2012. Since that time he has wowed the European MMA scene which has seen him pick up many impressive victories as well as two titles in the BAMMA organisation where he holds both the Featherweight as well as Bantamweight title. Whilst he may still be young a lot of hype is on Duquesnoy's shoulders. The question is will it be a case of too much too soon?

Desmond "The Predator" Green
Height: 5'10
Weight: 145 pounds
Country: America
Record: 16-5
Notable Victories: Miguel Torres, Steven Siler
Bio: A former NCAA Division 1 Wrestler who has since made the transition to MMA. Desmond Green's career has seen him fight in promotions such as Bellator and Titan FC in both the Lightweight and Featherweight divisions. Unsurprisingly Green's wrestling background is what plays the biggest factor in his fights. As he uses his skills to smother his opponents and work them over with his impressive top game. Although that's not to say Green isn't skilled on the feet as two of his last 3 wins have come by way of KO.

Andre "The Bull" Harrison
Height: 5'8
Weight: 145 pounds
Country: America
Record: 12-0
Notable Victories: Cody Bollinger, Desmond Green, Steve Siler, Kurt Holobaugh
Bio: A highly regarded standout from Titan FC who is currently the holder of their Featherweight Championship. Unbeaten standout Andre Harrison could very much be one to watch in this tournament. The unbeaten prospect who trains out of Bellmore Kickboxing has shown himself to be a talented fighter albeit one who lacks the finishing prowess of some of his fellow competitors with 9 of his wins coming by way of decision.

"Iron Broom" Hatsu Hioki
Height: 5'11
Weight: 145 pounds
Country: Japan
Record: 28-9-2
Notable Victories: Bart Palaszewski, Ivan Menjivar
Bio: A longtime veteran of the Japanese MMA circuit. Hatsu Hioki has assembled himself quite the reputation as one of the top Featherweights in the world with a collection of championship titles on his resume. This includes impressive runs in both Shooto and Sengoku. A grappler by trade Hioki boasts a black belt in BJJ which he has used to put away 12 of his 27 victories by way of submission. Making him a a huge threat should the fight hit the ground.

Magomedrasul "Frodo" Khasbulaev
Height: 5'7
Weight: 145 pounds
Country: Russia
Record: 24-6
Notable Victories: Marlon Sandro
Bio: Widely regarded as one of the world's top Featherweights. Frodo Khasbulaev is best known perhaps for his memorable stint in Bellator MMA during which he complied a 5-0 record which saw him win their Bellator season 8 tournament. Unfortunately though visa issues hindered the career of Frodo causing him to sit out from the sport for nearly 2 years. A multiple time Sambo Champion as well as international master of Sambo. Frodo is unsurprisingly a skilled submission artist but one who has also has shown himself to have some very heavy hands having put away the likes of Marlon Sandro with his strikes.

Rob "Warrior of God" Lisita
Height: 5'7
Weight: 145 pounds
Country: Australia
Record: 14-8
Notable Victories: Takeshi Inoue
Bio: Australia's Rob Lisita might not have the combat background of his other competitors in this tournament. But there is no denying the former Rugby player who started MMA in his mid twenties is deserving of his spot in this tournament. A powerful, gifted athlete Lisita might not have the resume of some of his opponents in this tournament. But thanks to his strength, raw athleticism and impressive submission abilities he could be one to upset the field.

Nazareno "El Tigre" Malegarie
Height: 5'8
Weight: 145 pounds
Country: Argentina
Record: 28-5
Notable Victories:
Bio: A near 10 year veteran of the sport of MMA. Nazareno Malegarie has so far been best known for short stints in both the UFC and Bellator MMA. Outside of these promotions the veteran holds an impressive 27-1 pro record with 24 of those victories coming by way of either submission or stoppage. A multiple time jiu jitsu champion with a judo background to boot. The Argentinian is very much a threat to anyone when the fight hits the mat. Adding him to the already impressive list of grapplers in this tournament.

Lucas "Mineiro" Martins
Height: 6'0
Weight: 145 pounds
Country: Brazil
Record: 16-3
Notable Victories:
Bio: A shocking UFC departure having won 4 of his last 6 fights with three of those coming by way of stoppage. Rising prospect Lucas Martins enters this Featherweight tournament with the chance to prove himself as one of the top fighters in the world. With an impressive 18-1 Muay Thai record and a purple belt in BJJ. Martins is steadily becoming a well rounded fighter but one look at his record and his 10 knockout victories shows that it is on the feet where the Brazilian is truly at his most dangerous.

Rasul "Black Tiger" Mirzaev
Height: 5'7
Weight: 145 pounds
Country: Russia
Record: 15-0
Notable Victories: Masanori Kanehara
Bio: An international master of sports in combat sambo as well as 2010 gold medalist in the Combat Sambo world championships. Rasul Mirzaev is hands down one of the most impressive prospects to enter the XCFA on paper. Unfortunately though when it comes to Mirzaev the first thing that comes to many people's mind is criminal conviction in Mirzaev's past which hindered his Bellator career. But with his past behind him and his time served the Russian prospect has continued his winning ways and maintained an impressive unbeaten record. Which includes putting away 10 of his 15 wins by way of knockout or submission.

Diego "The Gun" Nunes
Height: 5'6
Weight: 145 pounds
Country: Brazil
Record: 19-6
Notable Victories: Joachim Hansen, Bart Palaszewski, Manny Gamburyan, Mike Brown, Raphael Assuncao
Bio: A former WEC, UFC and Bellator veteran Diego 'The Gun' Nunes is a fan favorite for his exciting style on the feet. A high paced and extremely precise striker Nunes has fought some of the best the world has had to offer. This includes the likes of Joachim Hansen, Mike Brown and Raphael Assuncao. With a purple belt in BJJ Nunes is no slouch on the ground either which is shown by his record having evenly knocked out 6 of his opponents and submitted another 6.

"Super" Steven Siler
Height: 5'11
Weight: 145 pounds
Country: America
Record: 28-15
Notable Victories: Mike Brown, Cole Miller
Bio: One of taller fighters in this tournament and without a doubt one of the more unassuming. This is shown by his 5-4 record in the UFC where Siler defeated the likes of Cole Miller and Mike Brown. Whilst he has shown himself to be a well rounded fighter in his own right it is definitely on the ground where Siler is at his most dangerous. Having put away 15 of his 28 wins by way of submission. So don't let Siler's record fool you as he is a potential dark horse in this tournament.

Joe "Daddy" Stevenson
Height: 5'7
Weight: 145 pounds
Country: America
Record: 31-16
Notable Victories: Nate Diaz, Kurt Pellegrino, Spencer Fisher, Melvin Guillard, Gleison Tibau
Bio: A longtime veteran of the sport who rose in popularity following his appearance on the Ultimate Fighter season 2 which saw Stevenson beat the likes of Sam Morgan, Marcus Davis and Luke Cummo en route to becoming the TUF 2 champion. Joe "Daddy" Stevenson for a long while was one of the best Lightweights in the world which was shown by his wins over the likes of Nate Diaz, Melvin Guillard and Kurt Pellegrino. Unfortunately since that time it seems Joe's best days are behind him as he is currently riding a 6 fight losing streak. But to his credit Stevenson will be entering this tournament in an effort to show that he is still as good as he has ever been!

Deividas "Taurus" Taurosevicuis
Height: 5'9
Weight: 145 pounds
Country: Lithuania
Record: 17-5
Notable Victories: Marlon Moraes, Javier Vasquez,
Bio: A longtime veteran of the MMA game who has had stints in Bellator, WEC and the IFL. Deividas Taurosevicius has had an impressive 14 year career so far in the sport of MMA which includes a recent win of the Ring of Combat Featherweight Championship which he has gone on to defend another three times. A grappler by trade the Lithuanian has finished his last five fights all by way of submission making 13 of his 17 wins all submission finishes.

Robert "The Hammer" Whiteford
Height: 5'9
Weight: 145 pounds
Country: Scotland
Record: 12-4
Notable Victories: Daniel Pineda
Bio: Finally rounding out this tournament which has a big international flare with fighters from Brazil, America, Slovakia, France, Japan, Russia, Australia and Lithuania. Scotland's Robert Whiteford will look to be the latest fighter from American Top Team to claim a world title as his own. With an impressive Judo background as well as muay thai. Whiteford is very much a fun fighter to watch having put away 6 of his wins by way of knockout!

[shady1]

XTREME CAGE FIGHTING ASSOCIATION
XCFA #6
'The Featherweights'

Prelims
Featherweight Bout: Freddy Assuncao (9-1) vs Marcus Brimage (7-6)
Brother of the highly rated Raphael Assuncao. Freddy Assuncao looked to follow in his brother's footsteps as he took on UFC veteran Marcus Brimage. The skilled grappler Assuncao was able to use his grappling abilities to keep bringing Brimage to the ground and from there he was able to simply outwork Marcus for a decision victory.
Result: Freddy Assuncao (10-1) defeated Marcus Brimage (7-7) by unanimous decision.

Featherweight Bout: Kevin Aguilar (10-1) vs Junior Assuncao (16-5)
With his brother already winning this evening. Junior Assuncao followed his brother's lead as he was able to ground heavy handed prospect Kevin Aguilar and soften him up for the first round with punches before locking in a rear naked choke for the submission.
Result: Junior Assuncao (17-5) defeated Kevin Aguilar (10-2) by submission (rear naked choke) at 3:25 in the 2nd round.

Featherweight Bout: Niklas Backstrom (9-2) vs Pablo Garza (12-4)
Sweden's Niklas Backstrom was able to everyone just why he was such a hyped prospect in the next contest of the evening. As after rocking UFC veteran Pablo Garza with a heavy overhand early in the fight. Backstrom was able to quickly get the fight to the floor where he was able to secure a arm triangle for the submission.
Result: Niklas Backstrom (10-2) defeated Pablo Garza (12-5) by submission (arm triangle choke) at 1:32 in the 1st round.

Featherweight Bout: Demarte Pena (11-0) vs Andy Main (11-2-1)
Former EFC Featherweight Champion and Current EFC Bantamweight Champion Demarte Pena voiced some displeasure this week when it came to not being in the title tournament. The unbeaten South African showed the world here just why he should have been in the tournament as he dropped Andy Main quickly with an uppercut before following up with some more shots for a blistering KO finish.
Result: Demarte Pena (12-0) defeated Andy Main (11-3-1) by KO at 0:14 in the 1st round.

Featherweight Bout: Jianping Yang (11-4-1) vs Nam Phan (21-16)
China's Jianping Yang quickly showed everyone just why he is considered a talented submission fighter in the next contest of the evening. As he wasted no time in getting Nam Phan to the ground before attaining the mount and securing an armbar for the win.
Result: Jianping Yang (12-4-1) defeated Nam Phan (21-17) by submission (armbar) at 0:56 in the 1st round.

Featherweight Bout: Herbert Burns (6-0) vs Kurt Holobaugh (15-4)
Unbeaten grappler Herbert Burns was also very vocal about not being in the title tournament and he made a very nasty statement against Kurt Holobaugh as he was able to quickly get the fight to the ground before working over Kurt with strikes on the floor. After a few minutes of softening up Kurt Burns locked in a nasty knee bar for the submission.
Result: Herbert Burns (7-0) defeated Kurt Holobaugh (15-5) by submission (kneebar) at 4:05 in the 1st round.

Featherweight Bout: Felipe Froes (14-2-1) vs Katsunori Kikuno (23-8-2)
Young Brazilian prospect Felipe Froes took on his toughest test here in veteran Katsunori Kikuno. Unfortunately for the Brazilian prospect the unorthodox veteran was able to wobble him on the feet early on in the contest which it seemed Froes never truly recovered from as he seemed very tentative going forward. The rest of the fight then saw Kikuno dominate no matter where the fight went on his way for a unanimous decision.
Result: Katsunori Kikuno (24-8-2) defeated Felipe Froes (14-3-1) by unanimous decision.

Featherweight Bout: Damon Jackson (9-1-1) vs Tom Niinimaki (21-8-1)
It might not have been particularly pretty but wrestler Damon Jackson was able to return to winning form in this fight. As he used a very smothering top game to control Tom Niinimaki for a unanimous decision.
Result: Damon Jackson (10-1-1) defeated Tom Niinimaki by unanimous decision.

Featherweight Bout: Mike Wilkinson (9-2) vs Robbie Peralta (18-7)
The final fight on the prelims was very much a wild brawl between two heavy hitters which saw a thrilling conclusion as after three rounds of brawling. Both Peralta and Wilkinson opted to bang it out in the center of the cage for the last thirty seconds of the fight. The end result of this would then see Mike Wilkinson take a unanimous decision.
Result: Mike Wilkinson (10-2) defeated Robbie Peralta (18-8) by unanimous decision

Main Card
Featherweight Bout: Robert Whiteford (12-4) vs Ivan Buchinger (31-4)
Considered one of the top talents in this tournament. Ivan Buchinger showed just why he has earned this touting. As he wasted no time in getting Scotland's Robert Whiteford down to the ground with a hard slam before he then locked in a north south choke for the submission.
Result: Ivan Buchinger (32-4) defeated Robert Whiteford (12-5) by submission (North South Choke) at 1:06 in the 1st round.

Featherweight Bout: Steven Siler (28-15) vs Tom Duquesnoy (13-1)
Young prospect Tom Duquesnoy quickly followed Buchinger's suit in his battle with UFC veteran Steve Silver. As the unbeaten prospect put Siler down quickly with a leaping knee strike before taking a guillotine choke for the submission.
Result: Tom Duquesnoy (14-1) defeated Steve Siler (28-16) by submission (guillotine choke) at 1:41 in the 1st round.

Featherweight Bout: Rasul Mirzaev (16-0) vs Andre Harrison (13-0)
Two unbeaten prospects did battle in the next contest of the evening. Unfortunately for one of the two men their unbeaten streaks would not remain intact and it would be Andre Harrison who suffered that misfortune. As Sambo specialist Rasul Mirzaev was able to throw Harrison several times with suplexes whilst also controlling him on the ground en route to a unanimous decision.
Result: Rasul Mirzaev (17-0) defeated Andre Harrison (13-1) by unanimous decision.

Featherweight Bout: Rob Lisita (14-8) vs Diego Brandao (20-11)
Despite his troubles out of the cage Diego Brandao is widely reputed as a skilled and dangerous fighter and he showcased why here against Rob Lisita by quickly dropping the australian with a big right hand and following up with some more shots for a vicious KO finish.
Result: Diego Brandao (21-11) defeated Rob Lisita (14-9) by Knockout at 0:43 in the 1st round.

Fight Announcement
"Next time the Featherweights return to the XCFA it will be for XCFA 13. As the Featherweight tournament will continue. But fans will be treated to more than just the second round of the tournament. As two interesting fights have also been announced for the card. The first of which will be a former WEC Featherweight Champion Mike Brown (26-9-2) will take on former Dream and Shooto champion Joachim Hansen (23-14-1) in what will be a battle between long time mma veterans. Whilst also a rematch 16 years in the making will be taking place as one of MMA's most eccentric characters Charles 'Krazy Horse' Bennett (28-29-2) will look to get revenge on veteran Rich 'No Love' Clementi (45-23-1)."

Featherweight Bout: Lucas Martins (16-3) vs Desmond Green (17-5)
UFC veteran Lucas Martins made a quick statement in the next fight of the evening. As an early headkick wobbled Desmond Green before several strikes followed up allowing the Brazilian to pick up an impressive stoppage.
Result: Lucas Martins (17-3) defeated Desmond Green (17-6) by TKO at 1:32 in the 1st round.

Featherweight Bout: Deividas Taurosevicuis (17-5) vs Joe Stevenson (31-16)
The next fight of the evening saw a rather dull grappling match as WEC veteran Deividas Taurosevicuis was able to repeatedly ground and work over Joe Stevenson for a unanimous decision.
Result: Devidas Taurosevicuis (18-5) defeated Joe Stevenson (31-17) by unanimous decision.

Featherweight Bout: Diego Nunes (19-6) vs Hatsu Hioki (29-9-2)
Unfortunately for the fans the next fight was very much similar to the one before it. As Hatsu Hioki was able to ground Diego Nunes and control him for three rounds for an easy unanimous decision
Result: Hatsu Hioki (30-9-2) defeated Diego Nunes (19-7) by unanimous decision.

Featherweight Bout: Nazareno Malegarie (25-4) vs Magomedrasul Khasbulaev (24-6)
Finally in the main event of the evening Frodo Khasbulaev showed why he is considered one of the heavy favorites in this tournament. As he dropped Nazareno Malegarie with a right to the body before following up with several shots on the ground for a TKO.
Result: Magomedrasul Khasbulaev (25-6) defeated Nazareno Malegarie (25-5) by TKO at 3:59 in the 1st round.

Press Conference Highlights
~ Both Demarte Pena and Herbert Burns voiced displeasure at being left out of the tournament. With Pena stating he was considering moving down to Bantamweight for a shot at that title

[shady1]

Two new additions to the Heavyweight division announced

The first of two new additions to the Heavyweight division is a former pro football player turned MMA fighter in Brendan Schaub. A former competitor on the ultimate fighter who made it all the way to the finals. Schaub had an impressive stint in the UFC which saw him compile a 6-5 octagon record with wins over the likes of Mirko Cro Cop and Gabriel Gonzaga to his credit. A well rounded fighter Brendan has shown both skills on his feet and on the mat making him a potential contender for the XCFA Heavyweight Championship.


Also joining the XCFA heavyweight ranks after rumors of issues with the UFC is former UFC Heavyweight Champion Frank Mir. A former two time Heavyweight champion Mir is widely regarded as one of the best submission fighters to ever grace the octagon. Although he has only won 4 of his last 10 fights it is clear that Mir is still developing his game as his last two wins have come by way of knockout. Showing Mir to be quite possibly just as dangerous on the feet as he is on the mat.

[Joey]

Two great signings Dan. Schaub is one of my favorite heavyweights for sure.

[shady1]

Introducing Bantamweights

With the first tournament confirmed as being for the XCFA Bantamweight Championship. The 16 men set to challenge for the title have now been unveiled. They are as followed..

Chico "King" Camus
Height: 5'6
Weight: 135 pounds
Country: America
Record: 15-7
Notable wins: Brad Pickett
Bio: A talented and often entertaining fighter who recently competed in the UFC in both the Bantamweight and Flyweight divisions. Chico Camus has shown himself to be a game fighter in his career so far in battles with the likes of Brad Pickett, Henry Cejudo and Kyoji Horiguchi. Returning now to the 135 pound division the Roufus sport prospect will look to collect his first major championship in MMA. As the well rounded scrapper will look to become the first XCFA Bantamweight Champion.

Mike "The Hulk" Easton
Height: 5'6
Weight: 135 pounds
Country: America
Record: 13-5
Notable wins: Ivan Menjivar, John Dodson, Chase Beebe
Bio: Despite not having fought since 2014. Mike "The Hulk" Easton should still be considered a very dangerous opponent for anyone in this tournament. The powerful Bantamweight standout who boasts a blackbelt in both BJJ and Tae kwon do has an impressive list of wins on his record against the likes of Ivan Menjivar and John Dodson. The question is how will he fare having spent all this time out on the sidelines?

Gustavo Falciroli
Height: 5'8
Weight: 135 pounds
Country: Australia by way of Brazil
Record: 16-5-2
Notable wins
Bio: A popular fighter who has become one of the most decorated fighters in Australia. Third degree blackbelt Gustavo Falciroli is a near 10 year veteran of the sport. The Jiu-Jitsu specialist is regarded as one of the most renowned grapplers in MMA which is shown by his 9 submission victories which include 2 back to back D'Arce Choke finishes. Although to his credit it is not just his submission skills which you have to look out for as Falciroli has also shown himself to have tremendous power in his hands.

Bibiano "The Flash" Fernandes
Height: 5'7
Weight: 135 pounds
Country: brazil
Record: 18-3
Notable wins: Joe Warren, Joachim Hansen, Masakatsu Ueda
Bio: Overall the leading favorite to win this tournament is the highly regarded 5th ranked bantamweight in the world Bibiano Fernandes. The 36 year old Brazilian has won numerous championships over his career. This includes both the Dream Featherweight and Bantamweight Championships as well as the ONE FC Bantamweight Championship. A highly skilled and acclaimed grappler Fernandes has won numerous jiu jitsu competitions over the years making him the biggest threat in this competition should the fight go to the ground.

Josh "Gentleman" Hill
Height: 5'6
Weight: 135 pounds
Country: Canada
Record: 14-1
Notable wins:
Bio: A former competitor on the ultimate fighter season 18 Josh Hill has very much grown as a fighter since his tenure on the show. A late starter into MMA at the age of 21. Canada's Hill has quickly established himself as one of Canada's best fighters in it's lower weight divisions. Well rounded and extremely capable where the fight goes. Hill may not be one of the men people are talking about right now but he more than has the potential to shock the field.

Shintaro Ishiwatari
Height: 5'6
Weight: 135 pounds
Country: Japan
Record: 20-6-4
Notable wins: Caol Uno
Bio: A true veteran of the game with a 10 year career so far on his resume. Shintaro Ishiwatari already to his credit is in possession of the Pancrase Bantamweight Championship. A black belt in Judo Ishiwatari despite what his credentials might show you has thus far shown himself to be a dangerous striker finishing 8 of his wins by way of knockout. With power in his hands and an impressive clinch game Ishiwatari has to be considered a threat in this tournament.

Brett "The Pikey" Johns
Height: 5'7
Weight: 135 pounds
Country: Wales
Record: 12-0
Notable wins:
Bio: An unbeaten standout who was formerly the Bantamweight Champion of Titan FC. 23 year old Brett Johns has to be considered a potential favorite in this tournament. Unlike many of the fighters in this tournament who have impressive finishes or career highlights. Johns himself will openly admit he is not the most exciting fighter to watch. But his heavy pressure style is definitely effective as he has shown the conditioning to wear his opponent down over all 5 rounds of fighting. Making him a dangerous contender to the throne if he gets hold of you.

Scott "Young Guns" Jorgensen
Height: 5'5
Weight: 135 pounds
Country: America
Record: 15-12
Notable wins: Brad Pickett, Takeya Mizugaki
Bio: One of the more popular fighters at Bantamweight and one of the best known fighters in this weight classes respect tournament. UFC and WEC veteran Scott Jorgensen has reached the 10th year of his career here in 2016 and he will be looking to cap off that milestone by winning this tournament. Although he has gone 2-8 in his last 10 fights Jorgensen is a talented and dangerous fighter with heavy hands, strong wrestling and a vicious guillotine choke which many remember him hitting on Chad George back at WEC 47.

Masanori Kanehara
Height: 5'7
Weight: 135 pounds
Country: Japan
Record: 25-13-5
Notable wins: Kid Yamamoto, Chan Sung Jung
Bio: A respected veteran of the game who has competed in many organisations such as K1, DEEP and Pancrase not to mention the UFC. Masanori Kanehara comes into this tournament with a wealth of experience and knowledge having competed against some of the best fighters in the world such as Kid Yamamoto and Chan Sung Jung. A talented grappler with a black belt in BJJ Kanehara is a proven finisher with only 7 of his wins coming by decision.

Yoshiro "Hitman from Naniwa" Maeda
Height: 5'7
Weight: 135 pounds
Country: Japan
Record: 34-15-5
Notable wins: Masanori Kanehara, Chase Beebe
Bio: Probably one of the most experienced men in the tournament Yoshiro Maeda has an impressive career on his resume spanning over 14 years now. This includes fighting in notable promotions such as the WEC, Pancrase, Deep, Pride FC and Dream where he fought some of the best talents the world had to offer including Miguel Torres and Bibiano Fernandes. Whilst Maeda has spent his last few fights in the Flyweight division he will look to reclaim some of his past glory as he returns to Bantamweight once more.

Ivan "Pride of El Salvador" Menjivar
Height: 5'6
Weight: 135 pounds
Country: El Salvador
Record: 25-12
Notable wins: Joe Lauzon,
Bio: A long time veteran of the MMA scene who has impressively fought over 4 weight classes starting out as a Welterweight before slowly going down from there to the Bantamweight Division where he finally hit his stride. Ivan Menjivar has fought some of the best the world has had to offer including George St Pierre, Matt Serra and Urijah Faber as well as countless others. A finisher by trade Menjivar has finised 19 of his 25 victories with 10 of those finishes coming by way of submission.

Marlon Moraes
Height: 5'6
Weight: 135 pounds
Country: Brazil
Record: 16-4-1
Notable wins: Miguel Torres, Josh Hill
Bio: On paper one of the heavy favorites in this entire tournament is the current World Series of Fighting Bantamweight Champion Marlon Moraes. The talented Brazilian stand out has a background in striking with a black belt in Muay Thai. With vicious pin point striking and developing submission skills Moraes is currently riding an impressive 11 fight win streak with victories over fellow tournament competitors Miguel Torres and Josh Hill.

Demarte "The Wolf" Pena
Height: 5'7
Weight: 135 pounds
Country: South Africa
Record: 12-0
Notable wins:
Bio: Ask and you shall receive. When Demarte Pena expressed his dissatisfaction in regards to being excluded from the Featherweight tournament. He expressed an interest in moving down a weight for the Bantamweight tournament coming off a swift finish of Andy Main at XCFA 6. A well rounded and highly talented young fighter Pena definitely has to be looked upon as one to watch out for in this title tournament.

George Roop
Height: 6'1
Weight: 135 pounds
Country: America
Record: 15-13-1
Notable wins: Chan Sung Jung, Brian Bowles
Bio: Do not allow the record to fool you with George Roop. The rangy Arizona native who started out as a Lightweight before slowly moving down to the Bantamweight division. Has proven himself as a fighter with the potential to cause problems for many top fighters in his career. This includes his wins against the likes of Brian Bowles, Chan Sung Jung and Josh Grispi. As well as his impressive outings against the likes of Leonard Garcia and Hatsu Hioki among others. With a well rounded skill set and an impressive height on his resume Roop could very well be the dark horse of this tournament.

Hiroyuki "Streetfight Bancho" Takaya
Height: 5'6
Weight: 135 pounds
Country: Japan
Record: 21-12-2
Notable wins: Bibiano Fernandes, Yoshiro Maeda, Hideo Tokoro
Bio: A 13 year veteran of the fight game Hiroyuki Takaya has earned his nickname of Streetfight Bancho thanks to his similar experience fighting out on the streets. But make no mistake Takaya is a skilled and dangerous competito in the cage with proven knockout power in his hands having put away 13 of his victories by way of knockout. This includes the likes of Chase Beebe and Joachim Hansen. With his power and experience Takaya is definitely a considerable favorite in this tournament.

Miguel Torres
Height: 5'9
Weight: 135 pounds
Country: America
Record: 43-9
Notable wins: Antonio Banuelos, Takeya Mizugaki
Bio: There was a time when Miguel Toerres was regarded as one of the best fighters on the planet and hands down the best fighter at 135 pounds. With a 5 year unbeaten streak comprised of him winning 17 straight fights with all but two ending by either a finish or submission. Since that time however Miguel has hit a bit of a rough patch. With his last ten fights seeing his hand raised only 4 times for example. However the skilled striker and grappler will be looking to reclaim his past glory here as he will look to be the first XCFA Bantamweight Champion.