Pennsylvania Athletic Commission Denies Walker As Opponent For Cherico

Let me start by saying that I have always had bad luck, but since I recently decided to start putting together MMA events in the same market that I came up in, I have since run into some extraordinarily bad luck.

Allow me to explain my musings.

The great state of Pa's athletic commission, and more specifically Greg Sirb, is apparently so impressed by Mark Cherico's skills that he won't approve a recent UFC veteran and experienced fighter in Donny Walker (14-9) to challenge him at PinnacleFC June 29th.

Let me make sure you read that right.  The commission is saying that at 4-0, Mark Cherico is so dangerous that they won't even consider letting him fight a former (And recent) UFC vet because they think he (Walker) is over matched to the point where his health is a legitimate concern.

Let’s break this down: 2 weeks ago, Billy Vaughn (11-15)  (who is currently a sub .500 fighter and was on a 5 fight losing streak at the time) was considered game enough by the same commission to take on Cherico based on whatever factors they use to determine these things -my guess is a painted box turtle race, 3 out of 5 and it’s approved- but a few weeks later, a fighter with 3 times the big show experience, a winning record and a win over Cherico’s previous opponent is so out gunned that they won’t even consider the match up.   What changed between April 20th and now?  In my opinion, this fight was arguably the most logical step up in Mark’s career, maybe ever.

Yeah I know, WTF? 

I have always graciously accepted the commission’s decisions but this one has me scratching my head.  This is a tough business bros, not only do we have to try and overcome disgruntled team owners, slimy competitor promotions and the truck loads of injuries that come with the territory of the sport, but now we are attempting to work with our own commission who apparently makes decisions arbitrarily instead of with the best interest of everyone involved.   And for the record, everyone on both sides of this fight has called and pleaded their case as to why this fight should happen. 

Two steps forward and four steps back ladies and gentleman. 

Seminar Alert: Steel City Martial Arts Sunday May 5th

Steel City Martial Arts is holding a seminar this Sunday May 5th and it's all about the crucifix position.   here are some of the specifics from the Facebook invite sent out by jiu jitsu lifestyler Marshall Carper:

Matt Kirtley, the founder of Aesopian.com, is giving a seminar on his favorite position, the crucifix. This seminar will introduce the crucifix position, explore entries, counters, recounters, transitions, and finishes (including the reverse omoplata). All skill-levels welcome.
Matt is a black belt under Eduardo de Lima and an accomplished jiu-jitsu writer. He will be available for privates and group privates following the seminar.
Details:

• May 5, 11am-2:00pm
• Location: Steel City Martial Arts
• $30 for full seminar
• $100/hour for private
• $60/hour per person for a group private

Please contact Marshal Carper to register. Spaces are limited. 724-825-2817, mcarper@gmail.com
Presented by Artechoke Media, promoting the organic growth of jiu-jitsu thought, theory, and technique. ArtechokeMedia.com

Space is limited so reserve your spot ASAP.  If you are interested in catching up on the handout that will be... well handed out, check that out here.

Local MMA Fighter Loses House In Fire: Donations Are Being Accepted

Vision MMA Fighter Tony Parker(8-8), who just recently competed at the Pittsburgh Challenge Series last week, woke up to the smell of smoke and realized his neighbor's town house was on fire. He was able to get out of the house alive but in the process, lost everything, including a family pet and the house itself. 

There is currently a Facebook page set up to help direct donations. Here's some of the information: 

Please help the Parker Family who lost everything, including a family pet, in a fire in Fairfield, Ohio on April 29th, 2013. They have two sons ages 5 and 7. Clothing, furniture, toys, dog supplies, money, etc. can be donated to the Parker Family.

Description

Most of you have heard that Tony and Amanda Parker lost everything due to a fire this morning. They have already gotten a new apartment, so lets pull together and help them fill it! 

All donations can go directly to their new place. 

The kids are really into sports, fishing, and nerf guns and clothes need are 5/6 for drew 7/8 for Austin. 

We are also working to put together a few benefits (one for the adults and one family friendly, so we will be taking donations for these, contact one of us and we will make arraignments) once the details are set we will let everyone know! There is also a website being set up to take donations!

They are accepting donations of clothing and other items at Vision MMA. You can check out the Facebook page HERE and a donation page is being set up as we speak. Anything you can do would be greatly appreciated.      

***UPDATE*** You can donate through this link right HERE. 

        Thick As Thieves Drops The "Doombox" Remix

Summer is right around the corner and that means it's time to renew that gym membership, dust off the flip flops and crack open a couple cold ones.  

Summer is the best time of year, the days are longer, bar hopping is more enjoyable and girls dress better which redefines the phrase "Less is more". 

Thick As Thieves Fight Co. is going to help you get prepared for this summer with the latest edition to the collection "A Blood Red Summer". This remake on the now classic Doombox design hits harder than anything else you're going to see on the market right now and for only $25.00 it's the best deal you'll find all week. 

Place your order after the jump:

Rocktagon XXVI "VENI,VINI,VICI": This Weekend 

Rocktagon is quickly taking over Ohio's northeast territory and have pushed out into other states using a model of TV coverage combined with lucrative Pro/Am deals to get their brand name out there. This weekend they are putting together another pro/am event at the Agora in Cleveland, Ohio. 

The card has yet to be released but the main event features ATT's Micah Miller (16-5) taking on Tyler Combs (14-9) at 155 pounds.  I'm planning on making the trek to Cleveland this weekend so if you are at the event, stop over and say hello.

Check back for more as it is released.

UFC 159: Results and Quick Thoughts 

I watched UFC 159 at the  waterfront's Dave and Busters in sunny Homestead, PA and my experience was better than expected.  The place was pretty much empty and there weren't nearly as many Tapout, Affliction wearing super fans as I anticipated.  I was happy I didn't pay for this card however because truthfully, I though it was mediocre at best.  

The biggest fight of the night, in my opinion, was Pat Healy's upset win over Jim Miller. Healy's a tough grinding type of guy and to take out a rugged contender like Jim Miller in your debut (basically) is pretty impressive.

Oh and  Roy Nelson clubbed Cheick Kongo with an over hand right, not a huge surprise there, and aside from that, the rest of the fights left me in the "Meh" column.  Davis and Magalhaes showed that when two ground experts meet, the potential for a standing "That one was really close" affair is almost sure to ensue.  Bisping out pointed Belcher but an accidental eye poke stopped the fight early and the main event was exactly like everyone expected (anyone with half a mind for this sport anyway). Jon Jones steam rolled Chael Sonnen in a way that was not only embarrassing for the fighting Pride of West Linn, Oregon, but for the organization itself. 

They actually tried to sell you on this being a legit fight.  Jones broke his foot in one of the gnarliest in cage accidents I can remember, it was so bad he had to sit during the post fight speech and still got Sonnen out of there in a round.  If Chael would have been able to hang in there just a little bit more, he may have actually won because the damage to Jones' may have inhibited his ability to continue.  

All in all, I left D&B happy, happy I didn't pony up the $60.00 for the event.  Check out the results after the jump: