Richard Abraham talks fight with Ky Hollenbeck and controversial decision at Lion Fight 24

Richard Abraham entered Lion Fight 24 looking to make a statement against highly touted Ky Hollenbeck. A win for Abraham over the likes of someone like Hollenbeck would help put his name on the map.

The fight started and neither fighter was willing to give an inch to the other. It was an exciting fight with both fighters throwing heavy leather, but in the fourth round the fight ended prematurely because of a cut. It was caused by a head butt earlier in the fight, but since it was stopped a round later after it was opened up again by Abraham it seemed he would be getting a (T)KO win. The fight instead went to the score cards where Hollenbeck was awarded a decision win.

Despite the loss Abraham showed he is more than willing to tangle with the best of them, Hollenbeck had four times the experience Abraham did, but despite the disparity he did not back down from the American great. We were able to catch up with Richard Abraham and he was kind enough to answer a few questions about the fight.

MTA: You were facing the toughest challenge of your fight career in Ky Hollenbeck at LF24. How did you prepare for Ky and his unique fight style?

Richard: The same we I always prepare. Nothing really special just extremely hard grueling training. The typical style of a Maximus Muay Thai fighter.

MTA: Knowing a guy like Hollenbeck has four times the amount of fights you do, how do you prepare for that mentally?

Richard: I have been fighting guys my whole career with 2x, 3x, 4x and even 10x the experience. It doesn't really matter the experience. I am an A class fighter so it doesn't matter who they put in front of me.

MTA: Were you able to follow your game plan in the fight with Ky and what do you think of his style after actually being in the ring with him?

Richard: Yes I was to an extent. We have similar styles. I actually thought he would of used a little more movement.

MTA: The ending was not what anyone was expecting. In the fourth round the fight was stopped because of a cut and it seemed you were going to win by doctor stoppage. What were your thoughts on how the bout went to the score cards instead of you getting the (T)KO win?

Richard: I was completely shocked. I thought I won no doubt. I landed effective strikes which opened it more. After reviewing the tape it is as clear as day. Yes a head butt opened the cut but they let the fight continue. The next round I landed some crisp right hands to open it more and get the stoppage. Even Pat Militech was saying I should grind my head on the cut to open it more.

MTA: When it went to the score cards did you agree with the scores? 

Richard: Not at all. I won the 1st round no doubt. The second he won. I gave myself the 3rd but it was close and the 4th I won for sure. I had it 2-2.

MTA: The strange part was that although it was caused by a head butt initially it was allowed to continue but when it opened up the following round it was because you got him with right hand. The fact that it was allowed to continue another round and it shouldn’t be ruled a no contest anymore or go to the judges. What were you and your coach’s thoughts on how it worked? 

Richard: I felt crushed. We all knew I won right after and as the commotion picked up and Ky and his corner kept saying head butt. We felt that we were about to get a bad deal. Not knocking Ky or the CSA team they acted on what the thought was right. It was the commission’s job to make the right call and they didn't.

MTA: The fight doctor really seemed to get involved as well because when the fight was stopped he was asking what caused the cut. This was peculiar because it shouldn’t matter to the doctor what caused the cut he just needs to decide if the fighter can continue and how it happened should have no bearing on his decision. Did you happen to notice this while the fight was being stopped? 

Richard: Yes I did a little. It seemed like he was more in charge. The ref Cobon is supposed to decide but the doc did. In the film the doc asked Cobon (the ref) was it from a head butt and Coban didn't say one word. Then the doc waved it off, weird.

MTA: Has there been any talk of a rematch between your camps and Lion Fight? 

Richard: Yes there where talks right away about a rematch before anything was even official.

MTA: You definitely showed class after the fight as other fighters might have freaked out. Do you wish you might have protested a little more the route they took to decide the fights ending? 

Richard: I'm a professional. Acting like a fool when it seemed liked the ref and the commission where not on your side wouldn't have really done anything except disrespect myself, my coaches, my family and my fans. It was a tough pill to swallow. I feel cheated of my moment to get my hand raised which I deserved the victory. This is life and I am blessed beyond measure.

MTA: You received a cut as well which was also from a head butt, did they have to stitch that up pretty good after the fight? 

Richard: It was from a head butt in the second. Felt like I was fighting a Ram haha. They wanted to stitch it up but I knew this was going to be a war so I brought liquid skin and my coach Chris Cichon patched me up.

MTA: When can we expect to see you in action again? 

Richard: I just did back to back fight camps. My brothers getting married next month so probably December. Spend so more time with the family. These camps are hard on all of us. To compete at a high level you must train at one too and my camps are a very serious process.

MTA: Looking back at the fight what do you wish you could have done differently if anything regarding your performance? 

Richard: I wish I put it together little better. Was a bit more active and didn't lower my head as much but other than that I did decent.

MTA: Do you want Hollenbeck as your next fight or it doesn't matter who?

Richard: I definitely want to fight Hollenbeck. Even if the raised my hand (which they should of)I feel very unsatisfied. It was a good fight that was close and we have unfinished business. If they give me someone else it doesn't really matter fighters fight.

MTA: And words for your supporters?

Richard: I want to thank the lord first. My family for supporting me with all my craziness. Thanks to all my friends and fans. My coaches Chris Cichon and Justin Whilely(The Cellar Gym), Mike Valle(VFS), Tim Tokarz(SIFU), Dennis Verges(BTB). Also my sponsors Shogren, Lu Dwyer, Illinois Lift Equipment, In Fight Style, Pizza Bella and Tree Guys Itasca.

Lion Fight 24 Results: Hollenbeck vs. Abraham ends in controversial decision

Lion Fight 24 returned to Foxwoods Casino in Connecticut. The night's main event featured the return of American stand out Ky Hollenbeck as he took on up and coming Richard Abraham. Many expected Hollenbeck to run through the less experienced Abraham, but the fighter from Illinois showed some real grit.

Hollenbeck used his usual aggressive style to try and keep Abraham on his heels, but Abraham was more than willing to engage with Hollenbeck as he came forward. Hollenbeck started off slow, but as the rounds went on he got more aggressive. and started landing some nice shots and looked stronger in the clinch. In the second round a cut was opened over the right right eye of Abraham, and in the third round an accidental headbutt opened a cut over the left eye of Hollenbeck. The referee stopped the action to have it checked and the doctor allowed the fight to continue.

In the fourth round Abraham landed a right hand that caused the cut to open again and after a few more seconds of action the referee called for the doctor to check on Hollenbeck's cut. The doctor stopped the bout and it seemed Abraham would be the winner by (T)KO, but a protest from Hollenbeck resulted in the fight going to the judges score cards where Hollenbeck was declared the winner by unanimous decision.

The controversial part of the ending is that typically this would be a (T)KO win for Abraham. If the fight had been stopped when the headbutt first occurred then the ruling of a no contest would apply or if the headbutt had occurred in the fourth round then they would go to the score cards, but letting it continue into another round and the cut opening up again because of a landed punch doesn't fall under that. The ruling should have been a (T)KO win for Abraham due to doctor stoppage. On top of that when the doctor was checking the cut he asked how it happened, if it was a headbutt or elbow. It shouldn't matter to the doctor how the cut happened as their job is to assess if the fighter is able to continue fighting with the cut. How it occurred should have no bearing on the his decision if the fighter is able to continue or not. Unless they have some special rules in Connecticut regarding this Abraham should have won by doctor stoppage. 

In the co-main event Ognjen Topic and Stephen Meleady fought for five rounds as both men looked to capture the Lion Fight Lightweight Title. The first two rounds were close as both fighters exchanged kick & punches, and jockeyed for position in the clinch. Topic began to take control with his boxing in the third round, and in the fourth round wobbled Meleady. It was evident Meleady was tough as nails as he continued to press forward, but Topic got the better of the exchanges. In the end Topic won a unanimous decision and the Lion Fight Lightweight Championship.

Jo Nattawut showed why they call him Smokin' Jo. He successfully defended his Lion Fight Super Welterweight Championship against the UK's Charlie Peters. Nattawut was a bit more aggressive than normal in this fight and it paid off when he scored a third round (T)KO due to elbows. A barrage of elbows knocked Peters down and after the referee started his count Peters signaled he could not continue. Nattawut continues to be undefeated since joining Lion Fight and has now gone 5-0 for the promotion.

In other action Gaston Bolanos remained undefeated with a fantastic finish of Ben Yelle in the second round. Bolanos landed his patented spinning elbow and hurt Yelle which led to the fight being called off. It was another fantastic performance by the young Bolanos.

Chris Mauceri was also in action and delivered the KO of the night. In the third round he landed a brutal spinning elbow on Nicolas Parlanti that knocked him out cold. It was easily the most spectacular finish of Mauceri's career.

Results:

Ky Hollenbeck def. Richard Abraham via Unanimous Decision

Ognjen Topic def. Stephen Meleady via Unanimous Decision

Jo Nattawut def. Charlie Peters via KO (Elbows) in Rd. 3

Gaston Bolanos def. Ben Yelle via (T)KO in Rd. 2

Chris Mauceri def. Nicolas Parlanti via KO (Spinning Elbow) in Rd. 3

Julio Pena def. Yelson Berdugo via (T)KO in Rd. 3

Lion Fight 24 Fight Card

Lion Fight 24 takes place this Friday at the Foxwoods Resort Casino in Ledyard, CT. The event will featured two Lion Fight Championships on the line as well as the return of Ky Hollenbeck to the promotion.

The main event will feature Ky Hollenbeck in his first appearance under the Lion Fight banner since August of 2011. Fighting Hollenbeck will be Richard Abraham, a regular on Lion Fight's east coast events.

Hollenbeck has not competed since June of 2014 when he lost to top ranked Andy Ristie by KO. Hollenbeck was undefeated when he last competed for Lion Fight, since leaving the promotion he has fought for the now defunct MPL, Legends Muay Thai Championship, and Glory. He went 5-3 after he left the promotion, although all three of his defeats were to some of the worlds top ranked fighters in Ristie, Giorgio Petrosyan, and Nieky Holzken.

The co-main event will feature lightweight title bout between Ognjen Topic and Ireland's Stephen Meleady. Both Topic and Meleady have cut their teeth fighting in Thailand and building solid reputations over there as some of the best foreigners competing. This should be a great bout between two skillful fighters that truly embody the Thai style.

The second title on the line will be Jo Nattawut's super welterweight title. Looking to take the title away from Nattawut will be the UK's Charlie Peters. Nattawut has gone 4-0 since he started competing in Lion Fight. Peters is an exciting fighter and it should be interesting to see how his style matches up with Nattawut's technical style.

Rising stars Gaston Bolanos and Chris Mauceri will also be in action at the event. Bolanos will face veteran Ben Yelle, while Mauceri will fight Nicolas Parlanti.

Lion Fight 24 takes place September 25, 2015 at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Ledyard, CT and will air live on AXS TV.

Fight Card:

Ky Hollenbeck vs. Richard Abraham

Ognjen Topic vs. Stephen Meleady

Jo Nattawut vs. Charlie Peters

Gaston Bolanos vs. Ben Yelle

Chris Mauceri vs. Nicolas Parlanti

Julio Pena vs. Yeison Berdugo

Danny Millet vs. PJ Sweda

Chris Mauceri vs. Nicolas Parlanti and Julio Pena vs. Yeison Berdugo added to Lion Fight 24

Lion Fight 24 takes place on September 25 at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Ledyard, CT. Two more fights have been confirmed for the event, Chris Mauceri vs. Nicolas Parlanti and Julio Pena vs. Yeison Berdugo.

Mauceri has been a Lion Fight regular, especially in the promotions trips to the east coast. Mauceri had one of the stiffest tests in his young career his last outing at Lion Fight 20. He dropped a unanimous decision to Thai Jo Sittisak, but showed the grit that has made a lot of people in the Muay Thai world pay attention to the New York product. He has only lost twice in his career, with his other loss coming to Kevin Ross.

Pena is another regular of Lion Fight when they visit the east coast. In his last outing for the promotion at Lion Fight 20 Pena scored a nasty first round knockout of Tom Evans. 

Fight Card:

Ky Hollenbeck vs. Richard Abraham

Ognjen Topic vs. Stephen Meleady for Lion Fight Lightweight World Title

Jo Nattawut vs. Charlie Peters for Lion Fight Super Welterweight Title

Gaston Bolanos vs. Ben Yelle

Chris Mauceri vs. Nicolas Parlanti

Julio Pena vs. Yeison Berdugo

Jo Nattawut set to defend title against Charlie Peters at Lion Fight 24

Jo Nattawut vs. Charlie Peters has been tapped to take place at Lion Fight 24 on September 25 at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Ledyard, CT. Nattawut will attempt to make the first title defense of his Lion Fight Super Welterweight Title.

Nattawut won the Lion Fight Super Welterweight Title at Lion Fight 22 with a unanimous decision victory over Salah Khalifa. Nattawut is 4-0 under the Lion Fight banner and has defeated Cosmo Alexandre, Sean Kearney, Richard Abraham, and Khalifa in his promotional run.

Peters is the second ranked welterweight in the UK. Peters is known for his knockout power and will be making his second appearance on U.S. soil. He fought for M-One Muay Thai in 2013 where he lost to Thanongdet Petchpayathai. Peters trains out of Double K Gym with Kieran Keddle.

Lion Fight 24 will also feature a lightweight title fight between Ognjen Topic and Stephen Meleady, and a main event bout between Ky Hollenbeck and Richard Abraham.

Fight Card:

Ky Hollenbeck vs. Richard Abraham

Ognjen Topic vs. Stephen Meleady for Lion Fight Lightweight World Title

Jo Nattawut vs. Charlie Peters for Lion Fight Super Welterweight Title

Gaston Bolanos vs. Ben Yelle

Jo Nattawut, Gaston Bolanos, and Chris Mauceri all set to fight at Lion Fight 24

Lion Fight 24 will take place September 25th at Foxwoods Resort and Casino in Ledyard Connecticut. The event which will feature a main event bout between Ky Hollenbeck (@KyHollenbeck) and Richard Abraham confirmed the appearance of three other Lion Fight regulars.

Jo Nattawut will defend his Lion Fight Super Welterweight Title against an opponent that is yet to be determine. Chris Mauceri will also be in action on the night, but like Nattawut his opponent is yet to be determined. 

Unlike Nattawut and Mauceri, Gaston Bolanos (@BolanosGaston) knows who he will be fighting at Lion Fight 24. The dynamic fighter will face veteran Ben Yelle. Bolanos as wowed the Muay Thai world with his exciting fight style and ability to finish fights.

Keep checking back here at Muay Thai Authority for more news regarding Lion Fight 24.

Fight Card:

Jo Nattawut vs. TBD for Lion Fight Super Welterweight World Title

Gaston Bolanos vs. Ben Yelle

Chris Mauceri vs. TBD

Ky Hollenbeck vs. Richard Abraham and Ognjen Topic vs. Stephen Meleady set for Lion Fight 24

Lion Fight 24 is scheduled to take place September 25th at Foxwoods Resort and Casino in Ledyard Connecticut. In the night's main event Ky Hollenbeck (@KyHollenbeck) will return to the promotion for the first time since 2011. Hollenbeck will be taking on Richard Abraham in a bout that will be Abraham's toughest test to date. In the co-main event Ognjen Topic (@OgnjenTopic) and Ireland's Stephen Meleady (@LaFlamaBlanca50) will fight for the vacant Lion Fight Lightweight World Title.

Hollenbeck has spent the last few years competing for other promotions, but in 2011 was 2-0 for Lion Fight. He won the WBC Muay Thai Middleweight World Title at Lion Fight 2 with a unanimous decision win against Gregory Choplin and then defended his title at Lion Fight 3 with a unanimous decision win against Simon Chu.

Ognjen Topic is one of the United States future stars. Already known for his skill and toughness he has quickly become a fan favorite. He consistently travels to Thailand to train and compete and has defeated Thai's like fan favorite Rungravee Sasiprapa, Coke Chunhawat, and Paowarit Sasiprapa. 

Meleady is one of Ireland's best fighters. He constantly competes against the best fighters in the world and has been in the ring with the likes of Saenchai, Sam-A, and Rungravee Sasiprapa. 

Keep checking back here at Muay Thai Authority for more information regarding Lion Fight 24 as it becomes available.

Fight Card:

Ky Hollenbeck vs. Richard Abraham

Ognjen Topic vs. Stephen Meleady for Lion Fight Lightweight World Title

Ky Hollenbeck Reluctantly Forgoes Glory Title Shot for Noble Pursuit

Number 5 ranked Glory fighter Ky Hollenbeck has made the difficult decision to opt out of his Glory 14 title shot against Andy Ristie in order to pursue a passion for helping others through being a firefighter. The Glory title bout against Ristie conflicts in scheduling with important dates of his Firefighter Cadet Program, as reported by Glory Sports. 

Hollenbeck confirms that this move does not mark the end of his fight career, but that at the moment he would like to focus on the firefighter program.

Stepping in for Hollenbeck will be number 3 ranked Davit Kiria, a fighter who boasts victories over the likes of Murthel Groenhart, Kem Sitsongpeenong, and Shemsi Beqiri. With a fearless style that includes unpredictable kicks and no hesitation to move forward, fans will still get a match worth viewing in Kiria vs. Ristie. 

Updated Fight Card:

GLORY 14

Mirco Cro Cop vs. Remy Bonjasky

Andie Ristie vs. Davit Kiria

GLORY 14 Middleweight Contender Tournament
Jason Wilnis vs. Sahak Paparyan
Robert Thomas vs. Dustin Jacoby

Super Fight Series
Michael Duut vs. Igor Jukovic

Shemsi Beqiri vs. Murthel Groenhart
Karapet Kareptyan vs. Artur Kyshenko 
Albert Krauss vs. Aikpracha Meenayothin

Aikpracha to Make Glory Kickboxing Debut

Aikpracha Meenayothin is set to make his Glory debut at their number 14 event in Zagreb, Croatia. The Muay Thai fighter will be facing established kickboxer Albert Krauss under Glory rules. 

The Thai fighter is known for his relentless style, always moving forward, while bombarding his opponents with heavy strikes. Strong with his elbows, Aikpracha will be forced to fight without them under Glory rules, but should nevertheless be expected to bring the fight to Krauss.

The March 8th Glory 14 event marks the first event of the 2014 calendar, as the organization steadily makes their way across the globe.

Updated Fight Card:

GLORY 14

Mirco Cro Cop vs. Remy Bonjasky

Andie Ristie vs. Ky Hollenbeck

GLORY 14 Middleweight Contender Tournament
Jason Wilnis vs. Sahak Paparyan
Robert Thomas vs. Dustin Jacoby

Super Fight Series
Michael Duut vs. Igor Jukovic

Shemsi Beqiri vs. Murthel Groenhart
Karapet Kareptyan vs. Artur Kyshenko 
Albert Krauss vs. Aikpracha Meenayothin

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Glory 14 Co-Main Event Change and Updated Fight Card

Glory 14, set for Zagreb, Croatia has undergone changes to their co-main event. Originally set for Nieky Holzken vs. Marc De Bont, the bout will now feature Andie Ristie vs. Ky Hollenbeck.  Both fighters wield an unpredictable style, making for an interesting and exciting matchup.

Andie Ristie last defeated both Robin Van Roosmalen and Giorgio Petrosyan in Glory's Lightweight Tournament in New York City. His convincing knock-out victories against these fighters, though viewed as possible, were not expected. Ristie definitely made a solid statement with his performance.

Ky Hollenbeck last defeated Warren Stevelmans by using his unorthodox style to outpoint the South African fighter.

Updated Fight Card:

GLORY 14

Mirco Cro Cop vs. Remy Bonjasky

Andie Ristie vs. Ky Hollenbeck

GLORY 14 Middleweight Contender Tournament
Jason Wilnis vs. Sahak Paparyan
Robert Thomas vs. Dustin Jacoby

Super Fight Series
Michael Duut vs. Igor Jukovic

Shemsi Beqiri vs. Murthel Groenhart
Karapet Kareptyan vs. Artur Kyshenko

Glory 12 Results and Recap: Andy Ristie shocks the world with two huge knockouts

Glory 12 took place tonight in New York and it was a night full of surprises. In the Glory lightweight tournament most were expecting to see a tournament final featuring Giorgio Petrosyan who has not lost since 2007, but Andy Ristie had other plans. In a fight that was pretty even things changed in a heartbeat in the third round when Ristie landed a left uppercut that knocked Petrosyan out. Despite Petrosyan's effort to get back to his feet he was clearly on wobbly legs and could not continue.

In the night’s other semi-final bout Robin van Roosmalen out pointed Davit Kiria for three rounds to win a unanimous decision. In the final, however, van Roosmalen would not see things go his way. Not only did Ristie not get the memo that Petrosyan was supposed to win this tournament, he also didn’t get the memo that van Roosmalen is a wrecking machine not to be messed with. Ristie knocked van Roosmalen down in round one and then again in round two with van Roosmalen not being able to answer the referee’s count in the second round thus giving Ristie the win. This was a huge night for Ristie as he not only beat the top two fighters in Glory’s lightweight division, but he knocked them both out.

In other action Glory middleweight tournament champion Joe Schilling took on Wayne Barrett. Schilling was considered the favorite, but like with Ristie it seems that Barrett did not get the memo. This was Barrett’s fourth pro fight, but you wouldn’t know it as he looked confident in the ring. Barrett struck first in the second round when he knocked Schilling down not once, but twice.The first knockdown came from an over hand right and the second early in round two and the second from a right hook as the round ended. In the third round Schilling was able to gain some ground back when he connected with a knee that dropped Barrett, but he was able to beat the count. The fight went to the judges and Barrett was awarded a unanimous decision victory in a huge win for his young career.

In another of the night’s super fights Australian Ben Edwards scored a third round knockout over Moroccan Jamal Ben Saddik. In the tournament reserve bout American Ky Hollenbeck used his unorthodox style to out point late replacement Warren Stevelmans to earn a unanimous decision victory.

In the night’s under card Francois Ambang scored a (T)KO over Eddie Walker due to leg kicks in the third round and Brian Collette scored a tremendous head kick knockout over Warren Thompson in the first round. Artem Vakhitov also scored a unanimous decision over Nenad Pagonis and Saulo Cavalari scored a devastating knockout over Mourad Bouzidi.

Full Results:

Glory Lightweight Tournament Final
Andy Ristie def. Robin van Roosmalen via KO in Rd. 2

Glory Lightweight Tournament Semi-Finals
Robin van Roosmalen def. Davit Kiria via Unanimous Decision
Andy Ristie def. Giorgio Petrosyan via KO in Rd. 3

Glory Lightweight Tournament Reserve Bout
Ky Hollenbeck def. Warren Stevelmans via Unanimous Decision

Super Fights
Wayne Barrett def. Joe Schilling via Unanimous Decision
Ben Edwards def. Jamal Ben Saddik via KO in Rd. 3

Undercard
Artem Vakhitov def. Nenad Pagonis via Unanimous Decision
Brian Collette def. Warren Thompson via KO (Head Kick) in Rd. 1
Jhonata Diniz def. Igor Jurkovic via (T)KO in Rd. 1
Francois Ambang def. Eddie Walker via (T)KO (Leg Kicks) in Rd. 3
Saulo Cavalari def. Mourad Bouzidi via KO in Rd. 3
Thiago Michael def. Paul Marfort via Unanimous Decision
Alexy Filyakov def. Mohamed Fanzy via KO in Rd. 1
John Bowman def. Villi Bello via (T)KO in Rd. 3
Niko Tsigaras def. Dominick Biondo via KO in Rd. 1
Casey Greene def. John King via KO in Rd. 1
Anna Shearer def. Andrea D'Angelo via Unanimous Decision

Warren Stevelmans replaces Shemsi Beqiri against Ky Hollenbeck at Glory 12 this weekend

Ky Hollenbeck and Shemsi Beqiri were set to face off in the tournament reserve bout of the Glory 12 lightweight tournament this weekend in New York, but Beqiri has withdrawn from the bout for reasons unknown. Stepping in to replace Beqiri is Warren Stevelmans. 

Hollenbeck will look to win his second bout in as many fights after returning from ACL surgery. He returned from his surgery at Glory 10 on short notice to defeat Albert Kraus by decision. Stevelmans has fought a who's who in his career, but is currently on a three fight losing streak. His last appearance for Glory was a decision loss to Albert Kraus at Glory 5. 

Glory 12 takes place this Saturday at the theater at Madison Square Garden in New York, NY.

Ky Hollenbeck vs. Shemsi Beqiri and Jamal Ben Saddik vs. Ben Edwards official for Glory 12

Glory has confirmed two more fights for Glory 12 including their main event. Jamal Ben Saddik vs. Ben Edwards will take top billing at Glory 12 in the night's main event. The tournament reserve bout will feature Ky Hollenbeck vs. Shemsi Beqiri. The winner of Hollenbeck and Bequiri would replace any of the winning fighters in the Glory lightweight tournament if they can't continue in the tournament for whatever reason, most likely injury.

Saddik will be looking to avoid a three fight losing streak against Edwards. He has lost his last two fights by (T)KO to Daniel Ghita and Peter Aerts. Edwards will be making his Glory debut and will be looking to build on his current three fight win streak.

Hollenbeck will look to compete for the second time since returning from ACL surgery. His first fight back took place at Glory 10 when he stepped up to face Albert Kraus on short notice, winning a unanimous decision. Beqiri will be looking to end a two fight skid after losing a unanimous decision to Robin van Roosmalen.

As previously announced the Glory 12 lightweight tournament will feature Giorgio Petrosyan vs. Andy Ristie, and Robin van Roosmalen vs. Davit Kiria. Glory 12 will take place Saturday November 23rd in New York.

Fight Card:

Glory Lightweight Tournament

Giorgio Petrosyan vs. Andy Ristie

Robin van Roosmalen vs. Davit Kiria

Glory Lightweight Tournament Reserve Bout

Ky Hollenbeck vs. Shemsi Beqiri

Super Fights

Jamal Ben Saddik vs. Ben Edwards

Updated Middleweight Rankings 10/10/2013

Not too many changes to the middleweight rankings this time around. Spots one through three remain the same. 

Former number four Chaz Mulkey falls off the rankings after not having competed in over a year, he last fought at K-1 against Kit Cope in early September of 2012. Troy Sheridan moves up to number four and Cyrus Washington shifts from the super welterweight rankings to take the number five spot in the middleweight rankings.

1. Ky Hollenbeck (16-2-1) (@KyHollenbeck)

Hollenbeck made an unexpected return to action after having undergone ACL surgery. Captain America returned to action on short notice at Glory 10 to take on Kickboxing veteran Albert Kraus and as we have become accustomed, Hollenbeck added another top name to his win list. He defeated Kraus by unanimous decision in what is a huge win on his fight back. His next bout is currently unknown but will likely be under the Glory banner.

2. Shane Campbell (50-10) (@ShaolinStyleMMA)

Shane Campbell has gone 6-0 since returning back to active Muay Thai competition a little over a year ago. Most recently he defeated Wallace Lopez in the opening round of the K-1 World Max 2013 tournament with a body kick. With the huge win he advances in the tournament and there are some interesting potential match ups for him in the tournament with Buakaw and Andy Souwer both part of the tournament. It will be interesting to see who Campbell is matched up with next.

3. Jesse Miles (15-3)

Miles returned to action after a year long layoff with an impressive knockout over Guiseppe D'amuri at Challenger 7 “Heavy Duty”. Miles has not fought often in the last few years, but is still one of the top middleweights in North America. His next bout is currently unknown.

4. Troy Sheridan (7-2) (@SheridanMMA)
Sheridan most recently competed in the Road to Glory USA tournament. He made it to the tournament final where he dropped a close decision to Michael Mananquil. He won’t have to wait long, however, to try and avenge the loss as he will re-match Mananquil on the under card of Glory 11 in Chicago. The Canadian fighter is one of North America’s top up and coming fighters and someone you should keep an eye on.

 5. Cyrus Washington (54-23-1) (@BlackDynamiteMT)
Washington had a three fight winning streak stopped by Moses Tor Sangtiennoi at Push Kick Promotions “World Stand Off 5”. Washington looked solid in the fight, but Moses was just a step ahead in the bout. Washington is one of the most active fighters from the U.S. and is a stiff challenge for anyone that steps in the ring with him. His next bout is currently unknown but don’t expect Washington to have a long layoff.

Rankings qualification - Muay Thai and Kickboxing bouts are all taken into consideration for the rankings. These rankings are not only based on Muay Thai Fights as many fighters compete in both full rules Muay Thai and Kickboxing bouts. Fighters are not to be inactive for any period longer than 12 months or they will be dropped from the rankings unless a fight is schedule within a month from the date they become ineligible. Fighters must be born in North America or permanently reside in North America and be active in the North American fight circuit are eligible for the rankings.  

Glory 10 Results and Recap: Schilling stuns Levin to win 4-man tournament

Glory 10 took place last night in Ontario, CA and the night’s story was Joe Schilling shocking the world by winning the 4-man middleweight tournament. There was a lot of attention surrounding the tournament since its announcement and with Schilling’s original opponent, Steve Wakeling, not able to secure a visa to fight in tournament many expected a Schilling vs. Artem Levin finale. That is exactly what they got, but many didn’t expect Schilling to defeat Levin, but he did just that. Before Levin and Schilling met in the final Levin defeated Jason Wilnis by unanimous decision and Schilling defeated Kengo Shimizu by unanimous decision.

In the final Levin looked good early in the fight but in the second round Levin was knocked by Schilling after a superman punch and a knee landed. The third round was close, and after three rounds the fight was ruled a majority draw and they proceeded to an extra round. In the extra round things started off right until Schilling scored a flash knockdown on Levin, which Levin protested. The tide of the fight shifted and when it was over Schilling was declared the winner.

Results:

Glory Middleweight Tournament Final

Joe Schilling def. Artem Levin via Extra Round Decision

Glory Middleweight Tournament Semi-Finals

Artem Levin def. Jason Wilnis via Unanimous Decision

Joe Schilling def. Kengo Shimizu via Unanimous Decision

Tournament Reserve Bout

Wayne Barrett def. Robby Plotkin via (T)KO at 2:26 of Rd. 1

Super Fights

Robin van Roosmalen def. Shemsi Beqiri via Unanimous Decision

David Kiria def. Murthel Groenhart via Unanimous Decision

Brian Collette def. Randy Blake via Unanimous Decision

Ky Hollenbeck def. Albert Kraus via Unanimous Decision

Hinata Watanabe def. Johann Fauveau via (T)KO at 0:48 of Rd. 3 

Karapet Karapetyan def. Aleksandr Stetcurenko via Unanimous Decision

Jahfarr Wilnis def. Brice Guidon via KO

Niclas Larsen def. Andy Ristie via Unanimous Decision

Jodan Watson out, Ky Hollenbeck in vs. Albert Kraus at Glory 10

A few days ago rumors surfaced that Ky Hollenbeck would be replacing Jordan Watson at Glory 10 against Albert Kraus. Sources close to Glory informed Muay Thai Authority today that Watson was officially off the fight card, but contrary to previous reports Watson is not injured and visa issues are to blame for his removal from the fight card. According to our source efforts were made up until today to see if Watson could get his visa issues fixed, but it became clear that it would not happen and that he had to be removed from the fight card.

Hollenbeck will return to action for the first time in 11 months. He was last in action in November of 2012 when he lost to Giorgio Petrosyan in the Glory 154lb tournament. In the bout with Petrosyan, Hollenbeck blew his ACL out in the second round and was unable to continue. He had surgery following the bout, and is now ready to return to action. It will be very interesting to see how Hollenbeck returns after the having had ACL surgery and a win against Kraus would be a huge name to add to his already impressive resume.

Updated North American P4P Rankings 7/5/2013

Some changes to the pound for pound rankings since the last update. Spots one though six go unchanged, Andrew Tate and Shane Campbell each move up one slot to take the seven and eight positions. Joseph Valtellini and Michael Mananquil re-enter the pound for pound rankings at nine and ten. After a three fight losing streak Romie Adanza slides off the rankings, and after a 1-3 stretch Joe Schilling falls off the rankings as well.

1. Simon Marcus (34-0) (@SimonMarcusNo1)
After jumping becoming the number one light heavyweight in the world Marcus has fought twice. He first defeated Dmitry Valent in China by decision and most recently Suriya Prasathinphimai by decision in Thailand. The “Bad Bwoy” is rumored to be fighting on the next Push Kick Promotions card in September, but no opponent has been named for him as of yet. The match up fans want to see is Simon Marcus vs. Steven Wakeling, but other interesting matches would be against Damian Bujan of Argentina, or L'houcine "Aussie" Ouzgni

2. Ky Hollenbeck (15-2-1)
Hollenbeck has clearly established himself as the top name from the United States. Most recently he lost to Giorgio Petrosyan in the Glory Final 8 when he suffered a knee injury in the second round. Aside from a knockdown in round one, Hollenbeck was going toe-to-toe with Petrosyan. His unique style has served him well in his career, earning (T)KO victories over Michael Corley and Cyrus Washington earlier in the year. When he will be back in action is unknown yet as he had to undergo surgery to repair his ACL, but you can be certain that Hollenbeck will only be involved in big fights.

3. Gregory Choplin (55-10)
Now based out of Miami, Choplin was riding a nice four fight win streak before being knocked out by Yodsanklai at Lion Fight 8 this past January. Since then Choplin got back on the winning track with a decision victory over Gil Silva. Choplin is expected to fight Thai fighter Duochonlek at WBC World Muay Thai Millennium Championship this upcoming September in France. 

4. Matt Embree (23-4) (@MT_Matics)
Embree saw his first action of 2013 at Push Kick Promotions “World Stand Off” where he defeated Ben Yelle by unanimous decision. Known for his technical style, “Matics” has expressed interest in fighting only the best. Embree will battle Kevin Ross at Lion Fight 10 to end the debate of who the best 140lb fighter is in North America. The fight will be televised on AXS TV.

5. Kevin Ross (19-8) (@DaSoulAssassin)
Ross returned from ACL surgery in January to take home a unanimous decision over Chris Kwiatkowski at Lion Fight 8. In his most recent at Lion Fight 9 he went the distance against Bernie Mendieta and pulled out a razor thin split decision. With two fights under his belt now Ross will take on Matt Embree in a fight that fans have been asking for. The winner will undoubtedly be considered the best 140lb fighter in North America.

6. Chike Lindsay (19-4)
Lindsay is currently riding a five fight win streak which includes wins over Muay Thai legend Somluck Kamsing and Christophe Pruvost. Lindsay scored a (T)KO over James Martinez at Bangkok Fight Night “Shockwave” in his most recent win. Lindsay is one of America’s best talents and will be put to the test when he faces Yodsanklai Fairtex at Lion Fight 10 on July 26^th. If Lindsay can pull out a victory over a legend like Yodsanklai his stock would rise tremendously.

7. Andrew Tate (17-3-1) (@CobraTate)
American Andrew Tate has been based out of England for quite some time now and has made his name fighting internationally. After losing in the finals of the Enfusion tournament this past December, Tate has now won back to back fights. His most recent win coming
 at the Enfusion London event in which he defeated Marlon Hunt in a decisive unanimous decision. His next fight is currently not known, but should continue to be a main stay for Enfusion.

8. Shane Campbell (49-10) (@ShaolinStyleMMA)
Shane Campbell has gone 5-0 since returning to Muay Thai after a three year hiatus. In January he defeated Remy Bonnel by unanimous decision at Lion Fight 9, he then defeated Sean McKinnon by unanimous decision to win the Journey Fight Series 160lb tournament in March. His most recent win came over Justin Greskiewicz at the K-1 qualifiers in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. He stopped Greskiewicz with knees in the first round. Campbell’s next bout is currently unknown.

9. Joseph Valtellini (9-1) (@BazookaJoeV)
Valtellini is currently on a three fight win streak and is 2-0 since joining the Glory ranks. After earning an impressive stoppage of veteran Murat Direkci at Glory 6 in Istanbul, Valtellini scored a stoppage over Francois Ambang due to leg kicks at Glory 9 in New York. One of the sports brightest young talents, Valtellini is quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with and a fan favorite. His next bout is currently unknown but is expected to be for Glory.

10. Michael Mananquil (19-4)
Michael Mananquil is now 5-0 since moving to the 154lb division. He most recently won the Road to Glory USA 154lb tournament. Despite being known as a technical fighter, Mananquil has shown that he is not afraid to let the leather fly and get involved in an all out war. One of the most intriguing fights at 154 would be against Chike Lindsay. Currently Mananquil’s next fight is unknown but will take most likely take place for Glory when he makes is official debut for them.

Rankings qualification - Muay Thai and Kickboxing bouts are all taken into consideration for the rankings. These rankings are not only based on Muay Thai Fights as many fighters compete in both full rules Muay Thai and Kickboxing bouts. Fighters are not to be inactive for any period longer than 12 months or they will be dropped from the rankings unless a fight is schedule within a month from the date they become ineligible. Fighters must be born in North America or permanently reside in North America and are active in the North American fight circuit are eligible for the rankings.