Lion Fight 26 title bout between Tetsuya Yamato and Greg Wootton off

Lion Fight 26 is three days away, and unfortunately for fight fans the night's main event title bout between Tetsuya Yamato and Greg Wootton is off. Wootton was not cleared to fight after failing his pre-fight physical. Our source informed us that Lion Fight secured two solid fighters that were willing to step in and replace Wootton on short notice, but Yamato refused both offers.

Lion Fight has now bumped the co-main event bout between Nick Chasteen and Turan Hasanov to the main event slot. Victor Saravia vs. John Nofer has now been moved to the co-main event slot.

Lion Fight 26 takes place this Friday, November 20 at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Connecticut. The event will air live on AXS TV.

Lion Fight 26 Fight Card:

Nick Chasteen vs. Turan Hasanov

Victor Saravia vs. John Nofer

Josh Shepard vs. Ben Peak

Julio Pena vs. Tim Amorim

Perdro Gonzalez vs. Sean Fagan

Victor Saravia talks upcoming Lion Fight 26 bout with John Nofer

Victor Saravia will be fighting John Nofer at Lion Fight 26 in Connecticut on November 20. The Californian will be looking to keep is perfect record in tact as he continues to amaze fight fans. His aggressive and exciting style have made him a fan favorite.

We were able to talk to Victor about his upcoming fight against Nofer, the importance of clearing his mind, and his recent switch to being vegan. Enjoy.

MTA: Victor you have a fight with John Nofer coming up at Lion FIght 26. Are you familiar with him as a fighter?

Victor Saravia: Yes I am fighting John Nofer. I am familiar with his style, yes I've seen a lot of his clips on YouTube . John Nofer is a really well rounded fighter he's fought though competition and has won . We both match perfectly.

MTA: You are currently undefeated, does keeping a zero in that loss column add more pressure or motivate you?

Victor Saravia: Me having a zero on my record does not put any pressure on me at all . Why because my goals is to go in the ring and win because I train super hard every fight. I don't take ANYONE lightly, everyone I fight is tough. So I don't feel pressure.

MTA: Can you describe what a typical fight training camp for you is like?

Victor Saravia: I train twice a day, run twice a day, and do my strength training and focus on getting my mind right.

MTA: Is fighting your full time profession or like many fighters do you have another job?

Victor Saravia: Yes fighting is my full time job right now.

MTA: Since turning pro you have been nothing but spectacular. What do you think it is that has made that transition from amateur to pro so smooth for you?

Victor Saravia: Just the confidence and the belief in my abilities and hard work.Taking care of what I call my body, my temple as well as my mind has helped me overcome any obstacle I come across.

MTA: This fight is in Connecticut which is closer to Nofer's hometown so he will probably have the crowd in his favor. How do you tune out the crowd come fight to me and does it ever affect you?

Victor Saravia: I don't mind the crowd, I'm pretty good at blocking everyone one out and going in the ring and doing my job. After the fight that's when I can hear everyone and hear the cheers. Everyone can cheer him on, I train to beat my opponent and to come out safe. The crowed and the celebration can be after the fight.

MTA: You mentioned taking care of your mind. The fight game is just as much mental as it is physical. What are some of the things you do to make your mind stronger?

Victor Saravia: Things I do to keep my mind sharp are I meditate every day. I'm vegan so that helps my mind be in harmony with my body too.

MTA: How long have you been vegan and what made you decide to go vegan?

Victor Saravia: I been vegan for about 5 months now. Reason why I went vegans is because it won't destroy our would and it hurt our animals. Second because I have more energy more power and more important keep mind in harmony with all my body.

MTA: How important do you think that dietary change is when you prepare for fights?

Victor Saravia: It's easy to cut weight begin vegan. I don't ever drag my self to the gym, if anything it keeps me wanting more. I recover faster it's just amazing what being vegan has done to my body and mind.

MTA: It seems Muay Thai is your primary focus, do you find it necessary to step away from Muay Thai at times and when you do what kind of things do you do?

Victor Saravia: Yes definitely, it's important to step away form the gym once in a while. Things I enjoy doing, I love being active I usually go to different hikes or to the beach. I go watch a movie or spend time with the family and girlfriend. Just catch up since when I have a scheduled fight it's hard for me to spend time with them.

MTA: Victor what are your goals that you wish to accomplish in the next few years?

Victor Saravia: My goals to accomplish in the next few years are to inspire the world that believing and having confidence can change your life and make your dreams a reality. To show people that you can change your life to something you love. To win titles to fight international to inspire those who need it. 

MTA: Can you tell us a little about your gym and your trainers?

Victor Saravia: Our gym is a family based gym with hard working fighter and trainers. We look out for each other. No body is above ANYONE everyone is treated equally..

MTA: Lastly any words for your supporters?

Victor Saravia: Chase your dreams weather it is fighting, being in the best shape, the best artist. Anything you CAN imagine comes true. I'll always have love for those who support me and those who don't.

Lion Fight 26 Fight Card: Nick Chasteen vs. Turan Hasanov set as co-main event

Lion Fight announced the main event for Lion Fight 26 a few days ago and they have now confirmed the remainder of their fight card. Five more fights will accompany the main event bout between Tetsuya Yamato and Greg Wootton. 

The night's co-main event will feature Arizona's Nick Chasteen taking on New York's Turan Hasanov. Chasteen has been training in Thailand for this fight as he looks to continue his development in the sport. Hasanov is a gritty fighter who might not be active often but when he steps in the ring he leaves it all out there.

Victor Saravia vs. John Nofer will also take place on the card. Saravia will look to keep his perfect record in tact and improve to 5-0. Since turning pro the Californian has made a name for himself with his vicious style that has lead to some amazing stoppages.

Rounding out he card will be Josh Shepard vs. Ben Peak, Julio Pena vs. Tim Amorim, and Pedro Gonzalez vs. Sean Fagan. Most of you might know Fagan because of his website www.Muay-Thai-Guy.com where you can find some great fight training tips and tutorials.

Lion Fight 26 will take place November 20 at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Ledyard, CT and will air live on AXS TV.

Fight Card:

Tetsuya Yamato (c) vs. Greg Wootton for Lion Fight Super Lightweight Championship

Nick Chasteen vs. Turan Hasanov

Victor Saravia vs. John Nofer

Josh Shepard vs. Ben Peak

Julio Pena vs. Tim Amorim

Perdro Gonzalez vs. Sean Fagan

Lion Fight 23 Pictures

Freddy Sosa was a Lion Fight 23 to shoot the action for Muay Thai Authority. Below are a few of the pictures from the event.

Lion Fight 23 Results: Harrison edges Malaipet, Van Soest retains title

Lion Fight 23 took place last night at the Pechanga Resort and Casino in Temecula, CA. The night's main event featured Liam Harrison vs. Malaipet Sasiprapa, and the co-main event featured a Lion Fight women's featherweight title fight between current champion Tiffany Van Soest and Martyna Krol.

In the main event Malaipet started strong as expected by most, but as soon as Liam Harrison turned it on he took control. He didn't get going until about the third round which at times can be dangerous if it goes to the judges, but Harrison did enough once he started to press the action to convince two of the three judges. Harrison was declared the winner by split decision

Tiffany Van Soest retained Lion Fight women's featherweight world title by defeating Martyna Krol. Van Soest was in full control of this fight, after a slow first round there was nothing Krol could do to derail Van Soest. The official results was a unanimous decision victory for Van Soest, who after the fight called out Valentina Shevchenko.

Kevin Ross was looking to rebound from his (T)KO loss to Tetsuya Yamato at Lion Fight 21, but after a solid first round things unraveled quickly for Ross against Rungrat Sasiprapa. Ross was finding home for his punches in the fight and was popping his jab nicely, then he took a risk by thrown a spinning elbow. Ross has thrown the same spinning elbow countless times before in his career, the difference was Rungrat ate the elbow and held Ross down to deliver a knee that sent him to the canvas. Ross was able to answer the referee's count but after getting up another knee from Rungrat ended the fight.

Mike Lemaire and Andrew Kapel were involved in the fight of the night as both men left it all out in the ring. The pair had fought before, a bout where Lemaire won a very close extra round decision. Leading into the fifth round both men were beat up, both men were tired, and once again this fight was very close. Lemaire once again ended on top as fatigue seemed to take over for Kapel and it was hard form him to stay standing. With about 30 seconds left int he fight it was called and Lemaire was declared the winner.

Romie Adanza scored a huge (T)KO win over the UK's number one ranked bantamweight Daniel McGowan. Adanza proved that a fight is never over, McGowan was likely up on the judges score cards going into the third round as he had been just step ahead of Adanza this far in the fight. A left hook dropped McGowan and he was given a standing 8-count. A pretty bad looking cut opened on his lip and the doctor went to inspect the cut and the fight was stopped. McGowan was visibly upset at the stoppage, but it was a pretty bad cut. The doctor might have been able to let it go further, but McGowan's lip was split wide open and probably the right call. This is a huge win for Adanza after going 1-3-1 in his previous five fights.

In other action Victor Saravia remained undefeated as a pro with a third round (T)KO over Stan Mancebo and Marvin Madariaga opened the night's pro card with a first round (T)KO over Tony Fausto.

Results:

Liam Harrison def. Malaipet Sasiprapa Split Decision

Tiffany Van Soest def. Martyna Krol via Unanimous Decision to retain Lion Fight women’s featherweight title

Rungrat Sasiprapa def. Kevin Ross (T)KO (knee) in Rd. 2

Victor Saravia def. Stan Mancebo via (T)KO (elbow) in Rd. 3

Mike Lemaire def. Andrew Kapel by (T)KO in Rd. 5

Romie Adanza def. Daniel McGowan by (T)KO (doctor’s stoppage) in Rd.3

Marvin Madariaga def. Tony Fausto by (T) KO in Rd. 1

Lion Fight 23 Predictions

Lion Fight 23 takes place tonight in Temecula, CA at Pechanga Resort and Casino. The UK's Liam Harrison will take on Malaipet Sasiprapa in the main event of the evening. In the co-main event Tiffany Van Soest will look to defend her Lion Fight title when she takes on Martyna Krol. Check out our predictions on tonight's fights below and let us know who you think will win.

Liam Harrison vs. Malaipet Sasiprapa

Harrison is arguably the best UK Muay Thai fighter, and one of the best around the world. Malaipet has a great reputation, but when facing top opposition he has struggled. There are always talks about the old Malaipet coming back, but he never quite seems to make a full come back. 

Malaipet will likely start strong like he does in nearly every one of his fights, but as this fight goes on he will begin to slow down. Harrison will keep his work rate and pressure consistent throughout the fight and this will spell trouble for Malaipet. Harrison packs power in his strikes and is very accurate with his strikes. This fight should resemble Malaipet’s fight with Pinca, although Harrison will probably inflict more damage than Pinca did on Malaipet. The first round we will see Malaipet taking the fight to Harrison, but after the first round Harrison will be in full control.

Malaipet is tough so it is difficult to imagine Harrison stopping him, although the potential is there with the heat Harrison throws. More than likely Malaipet absorbs the punishment and this ends up in a decision win for Harrison.

Prediction: Liam Harrison def. Malaipet Sasiprapa by Decision

Tiffany Van Soest vs. Martyna Krol

Tiffany Van Soest has been able to set herself apart from most of her female counter parts because of her athleticism and this shouldn’t be any different in her fight with Martyna Krol. Van Soest knows how to move in the ring, using angles and exploding on her opponents when openings present themselves. Caley Reece defeated Van Soest in the clinch, but since that fight she has improved in that aspect of her game and Krol’s clinch is not the level of Reece’s. 

Krol is a tough and has a decent amount of experience, but it is hard to imagine here out pointing Van Soest let alone stopping her. Krol is a very linear fighter and mainly moves in a straight line which will play right into the hands of Van Soest. This fight should be all Van Soest from the opening bell. Expect a stoppage win for Van Soest and a lot of damage inflicted from her before this one is over.

Prediction: Tiffany Van Soest def. Martyne Krol by (T)KO

Kevin Ross vs. Rungrat Sasiprapa 

Ross will be looking to rebound from his loss to Tetsuya Yamato, and he did not pick an easy fight. Rungrat is a quality Thai opponent and this should be a close fight. Ross is tough as nails and likes to press the pace, the faster the pace the more comfortable Ross seems to get. Rungrat has the potential to fight that type of fight, if that will happen is another story. 

Ross is going to want to use his boxing and use his movement, which are some of his strongest assets. If he can stay out of the clinch his high volume style should yield positive results. Rungrat should want to grind in the clinch and slow Ross down. This is a hard one to pick, but we say Ross is able to stay out of the clinch and implement his game plan to take home a decision.

Prediction: Kevin Ross def. Rungrat Sasiprapa by Decision

Victor Saravia vs. Stan Mancebo 

Saravia is on a roll since turning pro. He has knockout power and uses it aggressively. If you are going off of recent history Mancebo is going to have his hands full with Saravia. The biggest advantage Saravia has is that he is a smart fighter; he waits for the opening and then goes for it once it becomes available. 

His power should be the difference maker and Mancebo is going to have to respect it. Expect Saravia to take control early and deliver a stoppage win.

Prediction: Victor Saravia def. Stan Mancebo by (T)KO

Mike Lemaire vs. Andrew Kapel

Lemaire and Kapel have fought before and it was a close fight the first time. So close that it had to be settled with an extra round where Lemaire took the decision win. This fight should be another close fight, but Kapel might have the advantage because it will be Muay Thai rules rather than Kickboxing like their first encounter. Kapel seems to have traditional Muay Thai style and being able to clinch and elbow should favor him a bit. 

Lemaire packs power and it will be important for Kapel to close the distance and use the clinch so that Lemaire can’t deliver those heavy shots. This is going to be another close fight, but with the clinch in play Kapel should be able to edge out a close decision.

Prediction: Andrew Kapel def. Mike Lemaire by Decision

Daniel McGowan vs. Romie Adanza 

Adanza has not been very active lately, while McGowan has not only been active but is considered the best bantamweight fighter in the UK. Adanza has great boxing, but his inactivity could prove to be an issue. 

McGowan should be able to control Adanza throughout the fight especially in the clinch, but you can never count a crafty veteran like Adanza out. The pick here is McGowan as he is the younger and more active fighter of the two. A stoppage victory might occur if McGowan can deliver some serious damage from the clinch, but I think the safe pick is a decision.

Prediction: Daniel McGowan def. Romie Adanza by Decision

Tony Fausto vs. Marvin Madariaga

Fausto did not have a good showing his last fight under Lion Fight as he out struck by Nick Chasteen. You can’t question his toughness as he was willing to fight until his corner threw in the towel. This fight against Madariaga will be power vs. technique.

Fausto has a very technical style and should want a slower paced fight. Madariaga should hold the advantage in power and that will be his strongest tool. He should take the fight to Fausto and wear him down, and this should help him get a stoppage in the later rounds as long as his cardio holds up.

Prediction: Marvin Madariaga def. Tony Fausto by (T)KO

Lion Fight 23 complete with 7 pro fights including Van Soest and Ross

Lion Fight 23 is set for July 31st at Pechanga Resort and Casino in Temecula, CA. As previously announced the event will be headlined by a bout featuring Malaipet Sasiprapa against the UK's Liam Harrison.

The night's co-main event will feature Tiffany Van Soest as she attempts to defend her Lion Fight title against Martyna Krol. Van Soest will attempt to make here first title defense after recapturing the Lion Fight belt at Lion Fight 22 earlier this year.

Also featured on the card with be Lion Fight main stay Kevin Ross as he takes on Thai Rungrat Sasiprapa. Ross will be looking to bounce back after his (T)KO loss to Tetsuya Yamato at Lion Fight 21.

Romie Adanza will also return to the Lion Fight ring against Daniel McGowan, young gun Victor Saravia will look to keep his perfect record in tact as he faces Stan Mancebo, and Mike Lemaire will make his Lion Fight debut against Michael Jasper.

Fight Card:

Malaipet Sasiprapa vs. Liam Harrison

Tiffany Van Soest vs. Martyna Krol

Kevin Ross vs. Rungrat Sasiprapa

Marvin Madariaga vs. Tony Fausto

Victor Saravia vs. Stan Mancebo

Mike Lemaire vs. Michael Jasper

Romie Adanza vs. Daniel McGowan

Lion Fight 21 Makes California Debut

Lion Fight Promotions looks to make its California debut March 27th at Pechanga Casino in Temecula, California. Landing in So Cal marks the second of the event's locations outside of its Las Vegas home, also making use of Connecticut.

Lion Fight 21 features the rematch of Kevin Ross vs. Tetsuya Yamato. Yamato walked away with a split decision victory over Ross in their first Lion Fight meeting, a fight that ranks among Lion Fight's most exciting ever. Ross returns after a victory over Michael Thompson at Lion Fight 16. Yamato returns to the ring after a lengthy break, last fighting February of 2014, picking up a unanimous decision victory over Masaaki Noiri.


Fight Card:

Kevin Ross vs. Tetsuya Yamato
Tiffany Van Soest vs. Chajmaa Bellekhal
Victor Saravia vs. Sam Poulton
Nick Chasteen vs. Clement LaCroix
Malaipet Sasiprapa vs. Ben Yelle
Josh Shepard vs. Jose Lopez

MAIN EVENT: KEVIN ROSS vs. TETSUYA YAMATO 2
CO-MAIN EVENT: TIFFANY VAN SOEST vs. CHAJMAA BELLEKHAL
VICTOR SARAVIA vs. SAM POULTON
NICK CHASTEEN vs. CLEMENT LACROIX
MALAIPET SASIPRAPA vs. BEN YELLE
JOSH SHEPARD vs. JOSE LOPEZ - See more at: http://www.lionfight.com/news/2015/01/lion-fight-21-features-star-studded-lineup-for-history-making-debut-at-pechanga-resort-casino/#sthash.WiI5hZDJ.dpuf

MAIN EVENT: KEVIN ROSS vs. TETSUYA YAMATO 2
CO-MAIN EVENT: TIFFANY VAN SOEST vs. CHAJMAA BELLEKHAL
VICTOR SARAVIA vs. SAM POULTON
NICK CHASTEEN vs. CLEMENT LACROIX
MALAIPET SASIPRAPA vs. BEN YELLE
JOSH SHEPARD vs. JOSE LOPEZ - See more at: http://www.lionfight.com/news/2015/01/lion-fight-21-features-star-studded-lineup-for-history-making-debut-at-pechanga-resort-casino/#sthash.WiI5hZDJ.dpuf

MAIN EVENT: KEVIN ROSS vs. TETSUYA YAMATO 2
CO-MAIN EVENT: TIFFANY VAN SOEST vs. CHAJMAA BELLEKHAL
VICTOR SARAVIA vs. SAM POULTON
NICK CHASTEEN vs. CLEMENT LACROIX
MALAIPET SASIPRAPA vs. BEN YELLE
JOSH SHEPARD vs. JOSE LOPEZ - See more at: http://www.lionfight.com/news/2015/01/lion-fight-21-features-star-studded-lineup-for-history-making-debut-at-pechanga-resort-casino/#sthash.WiI5hZDJ.dpuf

MAIN EVENT: KEVIN ROSS vs. TETSUYA YAMATO 2
CO-MAIN EVENT: TIFFANY VAN SOEST vs. CHAJMAA BELLEKHAL
VICTOR SARAVIA vs. SAM POULTON
NICK CHASTEEN vs. CLEMENT LACROIX
MALAIPET SASIPRAPA vs. BEN YELLE
JOSH SHEPARD vs. JOSE LOPEZ - See more at: http://www.lionfight.com/news/2015/01/lion-fight-21-features-star-studded-lineup-for-history-making-debut-at-pechanga-resort-casino/#sthash.WiI5hZDJ.dpuf

MAIN EVENT: KEVIN ROSS vs. TETSUYA YAMATO 2
CO-MAIN EVENT: TIFFANY VAN SOEST vs. CHAJMAA BELLEKHAL
VICTOR SARAVIA vs. SAM POULTON
NICK CHASTEEN vs. CLEMENT LACROIX
MALAIPET SASIPRAPA vs. BEN YELLE
JOSH SHEPARD vs. JOSE LOPEZ - See more at: http://www.lionfight.com/news/2015/01/lion-fight-21-features-star-studded-lineup-for-history-making-debut-at-pechanga-resort-casino/#sthash.WiI5hZDJ.dpuf

Matches to make after Lion Fight 17

Lion Fight 17 took place this past weekend and there were some exciting fights on the night. Malaipet Sasiprapa returned to the winning track with a decision win over Justin Greskiewicz and Jo Nattawut scored a split decision victory over Cosmo Alexandre. Victor Saravia also impressed with a knockout of Andy Singh.

With the exciting event now behind us we play match maker and suggest some fights that would make sense for the winners and some of the losers from Lion Fight 17 that are based in North America. Since Justin Greskiewicz already has his next bout announced against Matt Embree we will not be matching up Greskiewicz.

Malaipet Sasiprapa vs. Jose Palacios
Malaipet has proven that he can still defeat most fighters he faces, however, before Lion Fight throws him in against another fighter the caliber of Fabio Pinca it would be best to give him a stiff test. Palacios would be perfect, the pair fought in 2012 in a bout that Palacios took on short notice. Malaipet won a split decision so it would be interesting to see how he would fare against a prepared Jose Palacios.

Jo Nattawut vs. Shane Campbell
The Atlanta based Nattawut stunned many fans when he defeated Cosmo Alexandre by split decision. After scoring a huge win over Cosmo a solid match up would be against Shane Campbell. Before his recent loss to Enriko Khel under the K-1 banner, Campbell had won seven straight bouts. Having fought for Lion Fight before it would be a great match up, especially when Lion Fight returns to the east coast.

Cosmo Alexandre vs. Chike Lindsay
Despite the loss Cosmo remains one of the best fighters currently based in the United States. He has size and technique that would give all his opponents fits, another Nak Muay that has size and power is Atlanta’s Chike Lindsay. Last year Lindsay proved his toughness when he went five rounds with Yodsanklai. Cosmo vs. Lindsay would be an excellent fight for fans to enjoy.

Brett Hlavacek vs. Stephen Richards
Hlavacek and Richards have been matched up before but the bout has not been able to happen. The match up would be great for both fighters. Richards possesses excellent boxing and it would be interesting to see how Hlavacek’s more traditional Muay Thai style can deal with a savvy veteran like Richards.

Carlos Lopez vs. Gaston Bolanos
Lopez scored a nice win over a veteran like Rami Ibrahim. A fight against the fast rising Gaston Bolanos would be the perfect follow up to his win over Ibrahim. Bolanos brings and explosive style and both fighters in the ring together should provide fireworks for fans. If Lopez wins it’s another solid win on his record and for Bolanos it’s a solid fight for him to take in his young career as a pro.

Rami Ibrahim vs. Adrian Morilla
Ibrahim may only be 32 years old but his body has some mileage on it. The man has been fighting Muay Thai, MMA and Boxing professionally for over a decade. Morilla would be a solid match up for Ibrahim and a nice way for him to get back on track as it doesn’t seem that Ibrahim will be slowing down any time soon. Morilla is a solid fight and although he has come up short in recent fights he still presents a danger to his opponents because of his explosiveness.

Victor Saravia vs. Jason Andrada
Saravia has impressed in his two pro fights. He knocked out Anthony Castrejon and Andy Singh, both fighters that had their sights set on Jason Andrada. Coming off the first loss of his career it would be the perfect match up to take place. If Saravia scores a win over Andrada then he will be sitting pretty on top of the division, if Andrada defeats the hot prospect then he continues to be considered the top dog in the division by most.

Pedro Gonzalez vs. Sheldon Gaines
Gonzalez has run through Nick Chasteen and Tim Amorim with his aggressive style. A veteran like Gaines who is used to being in tough gritty fights would be a solid match up for Gonzalez. Lion Fight has a fighter in Gonzalez that comes in and goes for broke each and every round. They can definitely have him turn into a fan favorite because of his fighting style if they give him the right match ups. Gaines is the perfect match up at the moment, a seasoned veteran that has some more experience than Gonzalez’s first two opponents.

Lion Fight 17 Predictions

Lion Fight 17 takes place tomorrow at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Ledyard, CT. The event will feature some of the best talent on the East Coast as well as some internationally recognized talent like Cosmo Alexandre and Malaipet Sasiprapa. The main event will feature a re-match between Malaipet and Justin Greskiewicz and the co-main event will feature a bout between Cosmo Alexandre and Jo Nattawat.

It's time to break down all the action for the six pro fights on the Lion Fight card. Nathan Aripez breaks down the fights for you and gives you his picks on who he thinks will end up victorious on the night.

Malaipet Sasiprapa vs. Justin Greskiewicz
When Malaipet and Greskiewicz first fought back in 2012 many thought that Malaipet’s career had stalled out. He was 1-3-1 in his last five fights and 5-4-1 in his previous 10. Greskiewicz on the other hand was entering the fight with a 3-fight win streak on the line. When it was over Malaipet had won a clear cut unanimous decision and all three judges awarded him every single round. This time around Malaipet is trying to snap a two fight losing streak and Greskiewicz will be looking to string together back to back wins as well as avenging the first loss.

Having lost his last two Malaipet should be entering this fight with intentions of proving to everyone he still has what it takes to make another run at a Lion Fight title. Physically he should be the stronger fighter, especially in the clinch. Greskiewicz is going to have to press the action while avoiding getting locked up in the clinch with Malaipet, he will need to press forward land a few punches and move. Malaipet has a tendency to gas in the later rounds so Greskiewicz needs to be able to keep pace early in the fight and in the later rounds he needs to try to take over when Malaipet seems tired. For Malaipet he needs to come out and establish dominance early in the fight by landing a few sweeps and beating Greskiewicz in the clinch. If he can avoid gassing in the later rounds there is no reason that the result this time around should be any different than in their first fight.

Prediction: Malaipet by decision

Cosmo Alexandre vs. Jo Nattawat
Cosmo and Jo Nattawat both step into this bout on short notice. Cosmo has fought for Lion Fight on several occasions and always puts on a technical performance. Nattawat although a technical fighter will not be as physically strong as Cosmo and that will be the difference maker. Both fighters will fight a technical bout and you will see a full Muay Thai display. When they clinch Cosmo should be the stronger fighter and that is where he will separate himself in the fight. Cosmo has always been one of those fighters that can be aggressive; however, he needs to face a fighter that approaches him aggressively for fans to see him get aggressive. If Nattawat decides to try and press the action on Cosmo fans will definitely be in for a treat.

In the end this will be another technical a fair that will feature great technique by both fighters involved. Fans of Muay Thai should be able to appreciate the display of technique that takes place. Cosmo will use his technique and strength to out point Nattawat in the bout.

Prediction: Cosmo Alexandre by decision

Rami Ibrahim vs. Carlos Lopez
Ibrahim vs. Lopez will be an interesting matchup featuring a solid veteran in Ibrahim and a young up and comer in Lopez. Ibrahim has shown he has excellent boxing in the ring and it has proven to be the difference maker for him on several occasions. Lopez will come out looking to add a name like Ibrahim’s to his belt and his youth should serve him well in being able to keep a high pace, but in the end Ibrahim will be too savvy and his experience and grit will carry him to victory.

Prediction: Rami Ibrahim by decision

Victor Saravia vs. Andy Singh
This fight has the potential to be the fight of the night; Singh is a master technician while Saravia is a fire cracker who can end anyone’s night in the blink of an eye. Singh is a strong technical fighter and will use his teep to keep Saravia from trying to inside and land of his power punches. If Singh can stick and move it will be a long night for Saravia.

To win Saravia needs to get inside on Singh and land some big punches and make him feel his power. If Saravia can get inside and turn this into a dirty fight it will be a huge plus for him. This fight is actually one of the toughest if not the toughest on the card to predict, but going on gut feeling I would have to say Saravia is going to land one of his big punches.

Prediction: Saravia by (T)KO

Cyrus Washington vs. Brett Hlavacek
Washington and Hlavacek just fought a little over a month ago and this fight will probably mirror their first. Both fighters are technical and both have the ability to finish the fight, but this will end being a technical affair. If this fight were to change it would be because Hlavacek was sloppy and he got hit with one of Washington’s explosive kicks and was knocked out. I don’t see that happening, Hlavacek is a very cerebral fighter and he is going to grind down Washington for five rounds to take home the win.

Prediction: Brett Hlavacek by decision

Pedro Gonzalez vs. Tim Amorim
This is going to be interesting fight; Amorim has long been one of Muay Thai’s young prospects and made a successful pro debut at Lion Fight 15. Gonzalez also made his pro debut at Lion Fight 15 winning a short notice fight over Nick Chasteen. Gonzalez has an aggressive style that is more MMA than Muay Thai, but the kid can fight and is tough. Amorim is a more traditional Muay Thai fighter and this will definitely be a battle of styles. Expect Gonzalez to come out aggressive, but Amorim will have the technique to stifle his aggression. As the fight wears on Amorim will be able to take control of the fight and in the end the judges will favor him.

Prediction: Tim Amorim by decision

Nathan's Prediction Tracker:
2014 Record: 5-2
Career Record: 37-20
Last Event (Lion Fight 15): 3-2

Fight card set for Lion Fight 17

The fight card for Lion Fight 17 is set. The promotions second trip to the east coast on August 1st will feature a main event bout between Thepnimit "Mr, Knock" Sitmonchai and Dean James.. The co-main event will feature a re-match between Malaipet Sasiprapa and Justin Greskiewicz. The remainder of the card will feature some east coast stand outs such as Rami Ibrahim, Andy Singh and Brett Hlavacek.

Thepnimit will be making his American debut , known for his knockout prowess fans will definitely be in for a treat. James will be looking to collect another huge win over a Thai fighter this year, in March he defeated Rungravee Sasiprapa by (T)KO. 

Malaipet and Greskiewicz fought at Lion Fight 6 in 2012. Their first fight was a majority decision win for Malaipet. The fight was the second win for Malaipet during his recent six fight win streak, although recently he has lost his last two. Greskiewicz will be looking to build upon his recent victory over Jose Palacios.

Lion Fight 17 will take place August 1st at the Foxwoods Resort Casino in Ledyard, CT.

 Fight Card:
Thepnimit “Mr. Knock” Sitmonchai vs. Dean James
Malaipet Sasiprapa vs. Justin Greskiewicz
Rami Ibrahim vs. Carlos Lopez
Victor Saravia vs. Andy Singh
Victor Monfort vs. Brett Hlavacek
Pedro Gonzalez vs. Tim Amorim  

Lion Fight 14 Results and Recap

Lion Fight 14 took place last night in Las Vegas, NV. The night’s main event featured a bout between France’s Gregory Choplin and Suriname’s Marco Pique. Choplin was able to out point Pique to take home a unanimous decision victory. With the win, Choplin has now won three consecutive fights while Pique has a three fight win streak snapped with the loss.

In the night’s co-main event Jorina Baars and Cris “Cyborg” Justino met in a five round affair that demonstrated how technique can outweigh strength and aggression. Justino came out with her trademark aggression, but Baars was more than happy to sit back and counter her attacks. Baars officially knocked down Justino in the first round with a head kick and in the fifth round with a spinning heel kick, although referee Tony Weeks missed at least two other occasions throughout the fight where a knockdown should have been issued. Justino hit the canvas from a teep in one occasion and from a knee on another, both times they were ruled slips by the referee. When it was all over it was clear that Baars had done everything needed to win the fight and the judges agreed as they awarded her a unanimous decision.

Shane Oblonsky shocked the Muay Thai world by defeating Malaipet Sasiprapa by unanimous decision. The consensus coming into the fight was that Malaipet would defeat Oblonsky, but that was not how things played out. Oblonsky pushed the pace through the fight backing up Malaipet and continuously firing punches, kicks and anything he could get off to keep the action going in his favor. It was a tremendous performance by Oblonsky, especially after not having fought in over a year.

In other action Victor Saravia made his professional debut with an upset victory over Anthony Castrejon. Saravia showcased his power after knocking down Castrejon on multiple occasions and stopping him in the third round. Gaston Bolanos also made a successful pro debut with a fourth round (T)KO over Brian Del Rosario.

Results:
Gregory Choplin def. Marco Pique via Unanimous Decision
Jorina Baars def. Cris “Cyborg” Justino via Unanimous Decision
Shane Oblonsky def. Malaipet Sasiprapa via Unanimous Decision
Eddie Abasolo def. Jonathon Wyderko via Unanimous Decision
Victor Saravia def. Anthony Castrejon via KO at 2:43 of Rd. 3
Gaston Bolanos def. Brian Del Rosario via (T)KO at 1:57 of Rd. 4

Results and Recap for WCK Muay Thai "Beach Bash": Mananquil scores (T)KO over Bio

Michael Mananquil had a successful return to action after a layoff of over a year. The World Team USA fighter and Luis Bio squared off in the main event for WCK Muay Thai in Oxnard, CA. As expected both fighters came in and put on a show for the fans. Early on the fight was back and forth with both fighters delivering nice combinations. In the third round Mananquil started turning the pressure up and opened up a cut on the forehead of Bio forcing the doctor to stop the fight. Bio had won his last two fight's by doctor stoppage due to cuts, but this time the doctor prevented him from continuing. The win is big for Mananquil as he defeated arguably Mexico's best Muay Thai fighter and it should be interesting how soon we see him back in action and against who. Seeing that Mananquil moved up to 154 lbs there are some interesting match ups available including matches against the likes of Remy Bonnel, Chike Lindsay, Bryce Krause and Baxter Humby.