Jessica Bate Estaca" Andrade defeats Luciana dos Passos Pereira

On Sunday January, 27 2013 at Web Fight Combat in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

#20 ranked 135-pound fighter Jessica "Bate Estaca" Andrade (4-2-0) defeats Luciana dos Passos Pereira (3-3-0) by submission (rear-naked choke) in the second round of their 135-pound professional MMA match.

(Jessica came in at 133-pounds while Luciana came in at 140-pounds.)

Jessica is a 5'3 twenty-one year old fighter from Umuarana, Parana, Brazil. She trains at Arena Fight and with PRVT. Her coaches are Juca and Vader

 II asked Jessica how long has she been training and what got her started in MMA and this was her answer, I have trained in MMA for two and a half years I trained in Jiu Jitsu before I started in MMA. Once I got the taste of it in me I have not been able to stop."

Jenny "Phoenix" Silverio defeats Dayry Crispo

On Monday January, 22 2013 at Fight Time Promotions: "Revolutions 5" at Revolution Live in Fort. Lauderdale, Florida.

Jenny 'Phoenix" Silverio (2-1-0) defeated Dayry Crispo (0-1-0) by submission (north south choke) in the second round of their 115-pound amateur MMA match.

(Jenny weighed in at 110-pounds while Dayray weighed in at 113-pounds.)

Jenny is a 4'9 twenty-six year old fighter from Miami, Florida. She trains at Twin Dragons Martial Arts with Master Steven Tarrago.

I asked Jenny what does she do besides train, how long has she been training and what got her stated in MMA and these were her answers, "I have a master's in psycholpgy and doing a PhD in Transpersonal Psychology. I have been training in combat art of Kuntao Silat for 2 1/2 years. I started in MMA because it's as close to actual combat as it can get without breaking laws. Not that if a person gets assaulted they should be focusing on breaking the law lol. Anyway back in the day in China you knew your Kung Fu was real because you would test it in fights with other master's Or students in the street. And there that was ok. Now if you do that here it's a street fight. So basically
I'm making sure that I can 'perform under pressure."

Jennifer Blair defeats Crystal Jordan

On Friday January, 25 2013 at Midwest Fight League: "Whiskey Wild Showdown 16" at Whiskey Wild Saloon in Columbia, Missouri.

Jennifer Blair (1-0-0) defeated Crystal Jordan (7-21-0) by submission (due to strikes) in the second round of their 130-pound amateur MMA match.
 
Jennifer is a twenty-three year old fighter from Millersburg, Missouri.

Susie "Mama Beast" Wyatt defeats Melissa Shepard

On Saturday January, 26 2013 at Shamrock Fighting Championship: "Fury" at The Lumiere Place Casino in St. Louis, Missouri.

#13 ranked 135-pound fighter Susie "Mama Beast" Wyatt (5-1-0) defeated #33 ranked 135-pound fighter Melissa Shepard (3-1-0) by submission (armbar) just :34 seconds into the first round of their 130-pound amateur MMA match.

Susie is a 5'3 forty-seven year old fighter from Saint. Louis, Missouri. She trains at Finney's MMA where she is coached by Strikeforce veteran Jesse Finney for standup and Strikeforce veteran Black Belt Kiko France and Black Belt Ezra Lenon for Jiu Jitsu. She also trains under David Mirikitani for Wrestling.


I asked Susie how long has she been training and what got her started in MMA and this was her answer, "I stared training because I am always looking for a physical challenge and was looking for something to do for me. I am a single mom and a caregiver and I always am caring for others. I wanted to show my kids that having your own interests and goals were important also. I started with kickboxing but my size made it hard. I decided to try Jiu Jitsu and fell in love! I am Missouri State BJJ No-Gi Champ 2 years running and I just started Gi and oi won that this last year. I have won many Gods at NAGA tournaments and recently took Gold in WPF Worlds for my age bracket for Pankration and Ammy MMA. I took Bronze in the younger category.
 I started training about 3 years ago with KB...Jiu Jitsu about 2 years now. My love is Jiu Jitsu my Coach Ezra Lenon Recently beat Pablo Popovich at a No-Gi worlds competition. I have amazing trainers. I feel very honored that they let me fight MMA as I am a 47 year old grandmother of 2 mother of 4. I teach Fitness classes at Washington University and St. Louis Workout and am a Massage therapist."

She would also like to thank her sponsor  www.wearTitleShot.com
who provided her gear for this fight.

Rebecca Adney defeats Kelsey Adkins

On Saturday January, 26 2013 at Sugar Creek Showdown 5: "Frost Bitten" at The Sugar Creek Casino in Hinton, Oklahoma.

Rebecca Adney (1-1-0) defeated Kelsey Adkins (3-1-0) by unanimous decision in their 125-pound amateur MMA match.

Rebecca is a 5'3 twenty-nine year old fighter from Lawton, Oklahoma. She trains at Ft Sill, Bad Boys Boxing and Fitness Gym. She has also trained in Killeen Texas. Her coach is Cedric Marks

 I asked Rebecca how long has she been training and what got her started in MMA, this was her answer, "I started training in 2010. I was asked to spar another female one day not knowing much about MMA except army Combatives. I enjoyed sparring and did well for not knowing much. Like mentally and physically being challenged and MMA is definitely the sport for that."

Wendy Julian defeats Kate Guernsey

On Friday January, 25 2013 at Midwest Fight League: "Whiskey Wild Showdown 16" at Whiskey Wild Saloon in Columbia, Missouri.

Wendy Julian (2-0-0) defeated Kate Guernsey (0-1-0) by verbal submission (due to punches) just :20 seconds into the first round of their open-weight amateur MMA match.

(Wendy came in at 125-pounds and Kate weighed 115-pounds)

Wendy is a thirty year old fighter from Godfrey, Illinois.



To see the fight video click read more below.

Jacki Wilson defeats Cassondra Palmer

On Saturday January, 26 2013 at Griggs Entertainment Fights at The Old Gym in Sullivan, Indiana.

#24 ranked 155-pound fighter Jacki Wilson (1-0-0) defeated #25 ranked 155+ pound fighter Cassondra Palmer (5-1-0) by submission (armbar) in the second round of their open weight amateur MMA match.

(Jacki weighed in at 155-pounds and Cassondra came in at 162-pounds.)

Jacki is a 4'11 twenty-eight year old fighter from Clinton, Indiana. She trains with Team Kryptonite where she is coached by Bryant West.

I asked Jacki how long has she been training and what got her started in MMA and this was her answer, "I started training in July, 2012 and I started training because my brother Jordan Urbain was a fighter."

Jennifer "Psycho" Sare defeats Hannah Eagle

On Saturday January, 26 at Brawl Inc Presents at Shake It Up Showclub in Branson, Missouri.

Jennifer "Psycho" Sare (1-0-0) defeated Hannah Eagle (0-2-0) by TKO (due to ground and pound) in the second round of their 140-pound amateur MMA match.

Jennifer is a 5'8 twenty-three year old fighter from Springfield, Missouri. She trains at Hybrid MMA where sh is coached by Shane Carpenter and Chris Brandenburg.

I asked Jennifer when she started training and what got her started in MMA this was her answer, "I started getting serious with my training about eight months ago. I played every sport offered through school since I was four, college ball was a joke and I wanted a competitive outlet. I had to learn finesse and technique instead if just using muscle and power. MMA was definitely something that challenges me as a competitor. I like a challenge so I stuck with it and absolutely love it!"

To see the fight video click read more below.

Jillian "The Grappling Queen" Kreiman defeats Brooke Tibbetts: Fight Video

On Saturday January, 26 2013 at Downtown Showdown 12 at The Hyatt Regency in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

#21 ranked 145-pound fighter Jillian "The Grappling Queen" Kreiman (1-0-0) defeated Brooke Tibbetts (1-2-0) by TKO (due to punches) in the second round of their 145-pound amateur MMA match.

Jillian is a 5'4 thirty-two year old fighter from Oak Park, Illinois. She trains at Tutaj BJJ where she is coached by Omar Mendez, Jon Tutaj and at Colon's Mixed Martial Arts in Merrillville, Indiana where she is coached by Steve Colon.

I asked Jillian how long has she been training and what got her started in MMA and this was her answer, "I Have been grappling for about four years straight..have been doing stand up on and off for years. I really started focusing on MMA within the last year because I like the blend of martial arts, the function of it and the challenge."

To see the fight video click read more below.

Krystal Hertel defeats Nikki Smith

On Saturday January, 26 2013 at Shamrock Fighting Championship: "Fury" at The Lumiere Place Casino in St. Louis, Missouri.

Krystal Hertel (4-2-0) defeated Nikki Smith (4-4-0) by unanimous decision in their 115-pound amateur MMA match.

Krystal is a 5'4 twenty-seven year old fighter from Little Rock, Arkansas. She trains at Rock City MMA where she is coached by Nathan Kirby. Her Judo coach is Garett Andrews.

I asked Krystal how long she had been training and what got her started in MMA and this was her answer, "I have been training for little over three years. I initially started with no prior training in any other martial art and just wanted to learn so I took up MMA, and after a few months got offered a fair fight so I took it, won and have been addicted ever since."

Lauren Styler defeats Latrisha Bridenback

 

On Saturday January, 26 at Sparta Combat League: "Future Stars" at The Grizzly Rose in Denver, Colorado.

Lauren Styler (1-1-0) defeated  Latrisha Bridenback (0-1-0) by  unanimous decision in their 130-pound amateur MMA match.

Lauren is a 5'9 twenty-eight year old fighter from Denver, Colorado. She trains at Grudge Training Center where she is coached by Luke Caudillo and Vinnie Lopez.

I asked Lauren when she started training and what made her start training in MMA, here is her answer, "I started training about three and a half years ago. I joined an LA Boxing and did their cardiovascular bag classes to just get in shape and eventually got bored hitting just a heavy bag, so I started working with a trainer (Luke) hitting mitts and then he encouraged me to do a boxing fight night they were having at the gym. I had never even sparred before and only had 2 weeks to train for it, but decided to give it a shot. I ended up dislocating my shoulder in the second round when I hit my opponent with a hook and the fight was stopped, but it was enough to get me hooked. My next fight was a Muay Thai bout, then I progressed to MMA. I never had the intention to actually fight, but I just grew into it and am so happy that I walked into that gym because it has completely changed my life. I found a passion and I drive that I never knew I had."

Katy "Red Dragon" Collins defeats Jennifer Adams: Fight Video

On Saturday January, 26 at Brawl Inc Presents at Shake It Up Showclub in Branson, Missouri.

#20 ranked 125-pound fighter Katy "Red Dragon" Collins (4-7-0) defeated Jennifer Adams (0-3-0) by TKO (due to ground and pound) just :24 seconds into the first round of their 120-pound amateur MMA match.

Katy is a 5'4 twenty-five year old fighter originally from Marked Tree, Arkansas, now living and training in Branson, Missouri with The Branson Fight team where she is coached by JT Tilley.

I asked Katy how long has she been training and what got her started in MMa and this was her answer, " I always had an interest in it. after going to several of my brothers fights and local shows, I ended up in Springfield, Missouri at ShoFight10 (July 2011) I told JT I wanted to fight and I was.on the card in August of 2011. I Won my first fight by rear-naked choke in 42 seconds and I've been fighting since."


To see the fight video click read more below

Chel-C Bailey defeats Nicole Duffy

On Saturday January, 26 at Sugar Creek Showdown 5: "Frost Bitten" at The Sugar Creek Casino in Houghton, Oklahoma.

#7 ranked 115-pound fighter Chel-C Bailey (4-0-0) defeated Nicole Duffy (0-1-0) by submission (rear-naked choke0 in the first round of their 115-pound amateur MMA match.

Chel-C won the Submission of the Night award.

Chel-C is a 5'0 twenty year old fighter originally from Chewelah, Washington and now living and training out of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. She trains at American Top Team where she is coached by Giulliano Gallupi and Johnathan Gary'

 I asked Chel-C how long has she been training and what got her started in MMA and this was her answer, "I have trained MMA for about a year and a half now, off and on here and there not consistently yet. I got started because a friend pushed me into it and from there I just got caught up into it by meeting people and training around so now I am just involved in it and so now I do it off and on."

Gabrielle "Gabanator" Holloway defeats Ruth Perkins

On Saturday January, 26 2013 at Sugar Creek Showdown 5: "Frost Bitten" at The Sugar Creek Casino in Hinton, Oklahoma.

#17 ranked 145-pound fighter Gabrielle "Gabanator" Holloway (2-0-0) defeated Ruth Perkins (0-1-0) by submission (rear-naked choke) in the first round of their 145-pound professional MMA match.

Gabrielle is a 5'4 twenty-two year old fighter from Orange, Virginia. She trains at Zamora Boxing Gym where she is coached by Eric Zamora. She ended her amateur career with a perfect (7-0) record.

I asked Gabrielle how long has she been training and what got her started in MMA and this was her answer, "I have been training in MMA for about four years. After I graduated high school in 2008 I started going to Zamora Boxing Gym just to stay in shape and in 2009 they asked me if I would be interested in having a MMA fight I said sure so I did and ever since then I have been hooked but my passion is helping animals I currently am in college studying to become a veterinarian and I just do MMA for fun and to relieve stress. I wish school was as easy for me as MMA lol.."

Amber "The Bully" Brown defeats Abby Higginbotham

On Saturday January, 26 at King of the Cage: "Curtain Call" at Riverwind Casino in Norman, Oklahoma

#30 ranked 115-pound fighter Amber "Bully" Brown (2-0-0) defeated Abby Higginbotham (0-1-0) by TKO (due to ground and pound) in the first round of their 115-pound professional MMA match.

Amber is 5'3 twenty-four year old fighter from Albuquerque, New Mexico. She trains at Fighters In Training-No Holds Barred (FIT-NHB) where she is coached by Arlene Sanchez Vaughn, & her husband Tom Vaughn. Her wrestling coach is Jon Judy.

I asked Amber how long she had been training for and what got her started in MMA, here is her answer, "I have only been training MMA for just about ten months now, have no amateur experience. I started out with boxing then decided to give MMA a try and happen to love it. I had already went pro boxing so I had to start out professional, my first boxing match was September 2010. I Had been training about a year or so and just started going originally to get in shape after the birth of my daughter."

Justice "Tru Grit" Galloway defeats Sandra Gray

On Friday January, 18 2013 at Warrior Xtreme Championship: 'Night of Champions 5" at  Crystal Gardens Banquet Center in South Gate, Michigan.

#7 ranked 155-pound plus fighter Justice "Tru Grit" Galloway (5-2-1) defeated Sandra Gray (1-1-0) by submission in the first round of their open weight amateur MMA match.

Justice weighed in at 215-pounds and Sandra came in at 252-pounds.

Justice is a 5'4 twenty-eight year old fighter originally from Blythe, California and now living and training out of Grand Rapids, Michigan where she trains at Grand Rapids MMA for the last week. Before that she trained with  J.J. "Train Wreck" Stpehenson out of his JJS Train Station.

I asked Justice why she got started in MMA and this was her answer, "J.J. was local to me in honor and needed a solid training partner. he got me to where I trained couple of 0-0 guys up to be cage ready. One took a win. I was in Tae Kwon Do when i was sixteen in Palm Springs, California. Also I have always watched UFC like a hawk and forever drooled at the opportunity to get in there. I had no idea i'd be good but i'm glad it turned out right. I grew up never laying a hand on a woman, I always fought full grown men...im constantly testing myself as far as toughness goes. I think fighting only guys growing up gives me an edge. I honestly had a hard time hitting a woman my first five fights, but i'm over all that now. I finally found who I am as a fighter and found my switch."

J.J. Aldrich defeats Angie Perreira

 

On Saturday January, 19 2013 at Destiny MMA: “Wa Koa II” at Blaisdell  Arena in Honolulu, Hawaii

J.J. Aldrich (6-3) defeated Angie Perreira (4-1) by  (135-Title) unanimous decision in their 125-pound amateur MMA championship match.

J.J who was the defending champion is a 5'5 twenty year old fighter from Aurora, Colorado who  trains with Freedom Fighters where she is coached by Mike Gonzales, Keith Smeltzer and Ryan Walden. 

I asked J.J. how long has she been training in MMA and what got her started, here is her answer, "I have been training MMA for five years but I have been in Tae Kwon Do for almost eleven years. Five years ago my Tae Kwon Do instructors took me to a MMA gym and I started training MMA."

Becky Lewis defeats Kassy Sandaker

On Saturday January, 19 at United MMA: "A-Town Throwdown 6" at Soccer first Indoor Sports in Arlington, Washington.

#16 ranked 155-pound plus fighter Becky Lewis (2-1-0) defeated Kassy Sandaker (0-1-0) by TKO (due to strikes) in the first round of their open weight amateur MMA match.

Becky came in at 172-pounds while her opponent weighed 183-pounds.

Becky is a 5'6 thirty-one year old fighter from Snohomish, Washington. She trains at Charlies Combat Club where she is coached by Charlie Pearson.

I asked Becky how long has she been training for and what made her start training in MMA, here is her answer, "I've been training for about three years. I started doing MMA to help supplement my law enforcement training. I got into a pretty bad fight with a guy who had a warrant a few years ago and decided I needed to be better prepared. It also has helped me stay in shape and is a great stress reliever."

Meagan Buford defeats Rosanna Garcia

On Saturday January, 19 at Revolution Fighting Series I at The Winchester Sports Complex in Winchester, Virginia.

Meagan Buford (1-0-0) defeated Rosanna Garcia (3-2-0) by TKO (due to ref stoppage) in the first round of their open weight amateur MMA match.

Meagan came into the fight on late notice after Rosanna's first two opponents were unable to make the fight. She came in at 151-pounds while Rosanna weighed in at 140-pounds.

Meagan is a 5'9 twenty-four year old fighter from Suwannee, Georgia. She trains at Wellness Performance Institute with World Samboju Jitsu where she is coached by "Doc" Bailey. 

I asked Meagan how long she has been training and what got her started in MMA and this was her answer, "I started training about 5 years ago when I was nineteen after seeing a highlight video of Gina Carano. I had been playing Rugby for The University of Georgia and was on the USA team and was looking for a challenge."

Mercedez Campos defeats Serina Soto

On Saturday January, 19 2013 at Art of War: "Game Face, Respect the Game" at The Chicken Ranch Casino in Jamestown, California.

#2 ranked 115-pound fighter Mercedez Campos 5-0-0) defeated Serina Soto (2-1-0) by  submission (armbar) in the second round of their 115-pound amateur MMA Championship match.

 Mercedez is a 5'1 fighter from Sacramento, California. She trains at Oakdale MMA with Last Stand Fight Team where she is coached by Professor Tom Theofanopoulos, Bill Theofanopoulos, Justin Smitley, Rolando Velasco, Michael Gall and Michael McDonald.

I asked Mercedez when she first started training and what made her begin to train in MMA, here is her answer, "I first started in Boxing for about three months while I was in high school but it started to interfere with my grades so I stopped going. Once I was in college I wanted to start training again but Boxing wasn't enough for me. My step dad knew a guy that trained at a MMA gym that was close to my school so I went and I loved it so I stayed there for a little while. But I went to cross train at a gym in Oakdale, the first time I went there I fell in love with the gym an I wanted to train there so I talked to the coach and I've been training in Oakdale ever since. But the reason I started training in fighting in the first place was because I wanted to do a sport my brothers would be interested in watching lol."

Katie Howard defeats Kyra Batara

On Saturday January, 19 2013 at Full Combat Fighting Federation: "Rumble at the Roseland 69" at The Roseland Theater in Portland, Oregon.

#21 ranked 115-pound fighter Katie Howard (3-1-0) defeated Kyra Batara (1-1-0) by unanimous decision in their 115-pound amateur MMA Championship match.

Katie is a 5'5 twenty-five year old fighter from Portland, Oregon. She trains at G.I.R.L.S. Gym where she is coached by Sarah and Gary Oriza.

I asked Katie when she started training and what got her into training, here is her answer, "I started training in January of 2010 after my father posted an article
on my door that he thought I'd be interested in about another fighter out of G.I.R.L.S. Gym.  I was not interested in actually getting in the cage and fighting at that time, but as my training progressed, and I had success in my local grappling tournaments, moving into MMA competition only made since."

"Killer" Kelly McGill defeats Rachel Andrade

On Saturday January, 19 2013 at Art of War: "Game Face, Respect the Game" at The Chicken Ranch Casino in Jamestown, California.

"Killer" Kelly McGill (1-0-0) defeated Rachel Andrade (0-1-0)  by KO (punch) eight seconds into the first round of their 125-pound amateur MMA Championship match.

Kelly made weight, Rachel came in at 132-poundsst round. I train at .
Kelly is a 5'9 seventeen year old fighter from Modesto, California. She trains at Oakdale, MMA where she is coached by Tom Theofanopoulos, Justin Smitely, and Rolando Velasco.
 
I asked Kelly what got her started in MMA and this was her answer, "I got started in MMA when I watched WEC 41. It was my first fight watched and it was Mike Brown vs Urijah Faber and after that I begged and begged my parents to sign me up, and I've been training hard ever since."

Justine Estrada defeats Dona Castro

On Saturday January, 19 2013 at Art of War: "Game Face, Respect the Game" at The Chicken Ranch Casino in Jamestown, California.

Justine Estrada (2-0-0) defeated Dona Castro (1-4-0) by KO (head kick) in the third round of their 135-pound amateur Championship match.

Justine is a 5'5 twenty year old fighter from Modesto, California. She trains at Dynamic Martial Arts where she is coached by Paul Mendoza and Matt Miller. 

I asked Justine how long she had been training and what got her started in MMA, this is her answer, "Ive been training with them for three years now. I'm lucky to have coaches like Matt and Paul that are able to push me even when I feel like I can't keep going. They've both mentally and physically prepared me for anything I have to face. I started training when I was seventeen and in high school. I was just really bored with everything. I tried sports and clubs but nothing held my interest. I wanted to be challenged and at the time one of my friends told me about Muay Thai and showed me some videos and so i started looking for a gym to train at. As soon as I saw the Muay Thai class going on I know it was for me. I became addicted to it and pretty much stopped doing anything else. Eventually I started cross training in BJJ and now I'm into MMA. I just love learning new things and being able to see what I'm capable of."

Christianna Daniels defeats Sheena Brandenburg

On Saturday January, 19 2013 at Total Warrior Combat 15: "Mean Streak" at The Best Western Plus Hotel in Lansing, Michigan.

#24 ranked 115-pound fighter Christianna Daniels (6-2-0) defeated #37 ranked 115-pound fighter Sheena Brandenburg (5-6-0) by KO (Ground and pound) in the first round of their 115-pound amateur MMA Championship match.

Christianna is a 5'6 twenty-six year old fighter from Ypsilanti, Michigan. She trains at Scarred MMA where she is coached by Russell Tackett & James Jones.

I asked Christianna what got her started in MMA and this was her answer, "I started MMA because I wanted to learn how to defend myself."

Joann Nguyen defeats Calie Cutler

On Saturday January, 19 2013 at Total Warrior Combat 15: "Mean Streak" at The Best Western Hotel in Lansing, Michigan.

#33 ranked 135-pound fighter Joann Nguyen (3-0-0) defeated #34 ranked 135-pound fighter Calie Cutler (4-1-0) by submission (arm triangle choke) in the third round of their 135-pound amateur MMA championship match.

Joann is a 5'3 twenty-eight year old fighter from Lansing, Michigan. She trains at East Lansing Underground MMA where she is coached by Matt Torres.

I asked Joann what got her started in MMA and this was her answer, "I wanted to lose weight. I hit a plateau with weight loss so I wanted to do kick boxing.. and I got into BJJ and loved it."

Amanda Cooper defeats Kelly Fleury

On Saturday January, 19 2013 at Total Warrior Combat 15: "Mean Steak" at The Best Western Plus Hotel in Lansing, Michigan.

#4 ranked 125-pound fighter Amanda Cooper (7-3-0) defeated #11 ranked 125-pound fighter Kelly Fleury (5-2-0) by TKO (due to ground and pound) in the second round of their 125-pound amateur Championship match.

Amanda is a 5'3 twenty-one year old fighter from Fowlerville, Michigan who trains at Scorpion Fighting System in Howell, Michigan where she is coached by James Gray (her boyfriend) who is the owner and head coach at Scorpion Fighting System. Tim Farr is one of her striking coaches along with Steve Wedekemper. Chris Vish is my her wrestling coach.

I asked Amanda how long she has trained in MMA and what got her started, here is her answer, "In December it will be my two year mark of when I first stepped into the cage, I had been boxing on and off since I was 13 and boxing shows were getting very boring so my dad (who was training me at the time) asked me one night at the boxing gym if I ever wanted to do a MMA fight and he thought I would be good at it. and I at first told him I didn't think so but then by the end of the night I was convinced that I wanted to take just one fight to see were I stood. MMA was starting to get so popular and I could hardly get fans to go to my boxing matches so I told my dad yes and the next day he called me and said I had a fight in two weeks. I didn't train anything other then boxing and I fought Kathleen Albany and TKO'd her in the second round. I have been training wrestling, Jiu Jitsu and other mixed martial arts for over a year and a half now and I have improved a great amount in this time."

Kari Lichtenwalner defeats Raquel Ramirez

On Friday January, 18 2013 at Tuff-N-Uff: 'Festibrawl" at in Las Vegas, Nevada.

#30 ranked 125-pound fighter Kari Lichtenwalner (3-4-0) defeated Raquel Ramirez (1-1-0) by unanimous decision in their 125-pound amateur MMA match.

Kari is 5'7 twenty-five year old fighter from Las Vegas, Nevada who trains at Xtreme Couture where she is coached by Dennis Davis, Kui Gonsalves and the other coaches.

I asked Kari what got her started in MMA and this was her answer, "I got started in MMA when my daughter was about one year old (she's 6 now) I took up Muay Thai to get in shape ( I was about 200-pounds) and fell in love from there."

Kyleen Davis defeats Charmaine Shimanek

On Wednesday January, 16 2013 at Alaska Fighting Championship 96 at Sullivan Arena in Anchorage, Alaska.

Kyleen Davis (1-1-0) defeated Charmaine Shimanek ( 0-1-0) by submission (rear-naked choke) in the first round of their 120-pound professional MMA match.

Kyleen is a 5'4 twenty-two year old fighter from Anchorage, Alaska. She trains at Greatland Martial Arts where she is coached by Matt Stout and Trevor Martin.

 I asked Kyleen how long she had been training and what got her started in MMA and this was her answer, "I have been training in MMA for about three years but did Tae Kwon do from age seven and did kickboxing for a few years so I've been doing martial arts for about fifteen years. Fighting and training has been such a big part of my life for so long I couldn't imagine not fighting and not fighting in MMA."

Nikki "Knuckles" Knudsen defeats Windy Gore

 

On Wednesday January, 16 2013 at Alaska Fighting Championship 96 at Sullivan Arena in Anchorage, Alaska.

#30 ranked 135-pound fighter Nikki "Knuckles" Knudsen (2-1-0) defeated Windy Gore (1-1-0) by submission (rear-naked choke) in the first round of their open weight professional MMA match.

The match was contracted at 135. Wendy Joyce came in at 143-pounds, while Nikki Knudsen made weight.

Nikki is a 5'5 twenty-four year old fighter from Anchorage, Alaska. She trains six days a week at Gracie Barra Alaska where she is coached by Luke Rambur, Ali Isaako and Richard Stout (MMA) Her Jiu Jitsu coaches are Jarvis Edwards and Bob Grunder, who also owns the facility. 

It has been three and a half years since Nikki last entered a cage largely due to injuries. In her last fight she was defeated for the first time in her career by Willow Bailey (2-1) Nikki won her professional debut back in April of 2009 against Kloiah Wayland by first round TKO.

I asked Nikki what got her started in MMA and this was her answer, "I was drunk at the fights a little over three years ago and Bob Lester from KWHL radio station's morning show is the announcer, and asked if any chicks would like to get in there and challenge Kloiah Wayland who was I believe 1-0 at the time and I was so down! Always loved watching UFC and it just seemed fun. They thought i was just some blonde drunk chick that wasn't serious about it. I went in to the Bob and Marc show the next morning, told them point me where to train and i will fight in two months. They did. And I trained twice a day everyday. Specifically with my all time favorite coach, Rus Enz, who taught me boxing every morning (we are great friends now but he is sorta retired with coaching) and then I went in the cage and won via TKO first round. Fell in love with the art of the sport, the people, the feeling I got from it. I was addicted. Fought two months later and didn't develop a super great ground game yet and I actually got choked out by WIllow Bailey, who is a beast boxer up here in Alaska. She also was much larger than me and I have no regrets I learned more in that fight then the first, and I used it for this one. Staying focused and breathing are the two most important things, and nerves tend to try and mess with that. The crowd is what makes me most nervous, the fight doesn't scare me-I train my ass off with a bunch of dudes that are bigger than me and push me harder than any girl in there will."

Autumn Lamle defeats Keelan Rybacki: Fight Video

On Saturday January, 12 2013 at Logan Cunningham's "Combat MMA" at The Spirit Bank Event Center in Bixby, Oklahoma.

Autumn Lamle (1-1-0) defeated Keelan Rybacki (0-1-0) by TKO (due to GNP) in the first round of their 150-pound amateur MMA match.

Autumn is a 5'10 twenty-two year old fighter originally from Cache, Oklahoma and now living and training out of Bolivar, Missouri at Triton Fight Center under Piet Wilhelm and Summer Krause-Wilhelm.

In her amateur debut in November of 2012 she was defeated by Krystal McGuire

 I asked Autumn how she got started in MMA and this was her answer, "I started boxing at Bad Boys gym in Lawton, Oklahoma fall of 2010 with plans to someday participate in MMA. I had to stop because of college softball but once my senior season was over in spring of 2012 I joined a few of my friends who trained at Triton for Brazilian jiu-jitsu. And now I am where I am and I absolutely love it."

To see the fight video click read more below.

Izabela Badurek defeats Anna Urbanowicz

On Saturday January, 12 2013 at Professional League of MMA 11 at The Sports & Entertainment Center Arena in Zamose, Poland.

Izabela Badurek (1-1-0) defeated Anna Urbanowicz (0-1-0) by submission (armbar) in the first round of their 135-pound professional MMA match.

Izabela is a 5'4 twenty-one year old fighter from Lublin, Poland where she trains at Sokół Lublin where she is coached by Jakub Jemielniak.

In her pro debut inn December of 2012 she was defeated by Klaudia Apenit.

 I asked Izabela what got her started in MMA and this was her answer, "I trained judo 14 years but now I want to try MMA. I want to be a champion and I will. My idol is Cris Cyborg I like how she fights."

Veronica Luna defeats Cerise Sanchez

On Saturday January, 12 2013 at 559 Fights 9 at Old Creek Mill in Bakersfield, California.

Veronica Luna (1-0-0) defeated Cerise Sanchez (1-1-0) by split decision in their 145-pound amateur MMA match.

Veronica is a 5'3 thirty-four year old fighter and mother of teenagers who trains at Bakersfeild MMA and Boxing under the father/son team of Oscar Martinez Sr. (boxing, head trainer) and Paul Gonzales (wrestling) and Fernando Arriola (jujitsu).

I asked Veronica what got her started in MMA and this was her answer, "I have always liked the sport and wanted to try it. Then I realized I can hang with the boys. There are no other females at my gym. I'm the only female and amateur fighter."

Destiny Soulliere defeats Megan Davenport

On Saturday January, 12 2013 at Amateur Fight Club "MMA Green Day" at The Angry Bull Steakhouse in Port Huron, Michigan.

Destiny Soulliere (1-0-0) defeated Megan Davenport (0-2-0) by  unanimous decision in their amateur open-weight MMA match.

Destiny is a 5'2 sixteen year old from Port Huron, Michigan where she trains at Amateur Fight Club. She is coached by  Lloyd Baldock, Glen Hunter, Zach Howe, Justin Dodge, Keith Hubbard, and Jay Corleone. Her opponent seventeen year old Megan is also one of her teammates. This was an open weight match with Destiny weighing in at 125-pounds and Megan weighing in at 158-pounds.

I asked Destiny what got her started in MMA and this was her answer, "I've always wanted to fight, but I wanted to it legally and not street fighting, I was jumped three times and decided I would get some defense training so I could protect my self. My uncle trains too so he helped me get in."

Kathy Solorzano defeats Cynthia Hernandez

On Saturday January, 12 2013 at 559 Fights 9 at Old Creek Mill in Bakersfield, California.

Kathy Solorzano (1-0-0) defeated Cynthia Hernandez (0-1-0) by unanimous decision in their 125-pound amateur MMA match.

Kathy is a 5'4 twenty-six year old fighter from Bakersfield, California who trains at One Nation Fight Team where she is coached by Gil Medina and Paul Mince.

I asked Kathy what got her started in MMA and this was her answer, "I am a glutton for punishment, I love challenging myself, pushing my body beyond its limits its a great workout and Ive simply always loved the sport."

Lauren Foley defeats Liz Crowley

On Saturday January, 12 2013 at Mad Men Promotions: "Night of Champions" at The Michigan Theater in Jackson, Michigan.

#17 ranked 125-pound fighter Lauren Foley (4-0-0) defeated Liz Crowly (2-1-0) by TKO due to punches in the fourth round of their 125-pound amateur Championship match.

The defending champion Lauren is a 5'5 twenty-two year old fighter from Wyandotte, Michigan where she trains at Eastern Michigan University with their MMA club team where she is coached by Greg Calvert.

Her last win came in November of 2011 when she defeated Sheila Amerson in the first defense of her Mad Men 125-pound womens amateur Championship that she won when she defeated Sheena Brandenburg in September of 2011.

I asked Lauren what got her into MMA and this was her answer, "I played football an did wrestling in high school and really missed contact sports since I have only been doing rowing for the last seven years and so I decided to just do both now.

Crystal Garcia defeats Heather Johnson

On Saturday, January, 5 at Head Busters: "Warriors at War 2" at Proball Training Academy in Holton, Michigan.

Crystal Garcia (1-0-0) defeated Heather Johnson (1-1-0) by TKO due to the fighter not answering the bell for the third round of their 165-pound amateur MMA match.

Crystal is a 5'3 twenty-two year old fighter from from Shelby Township, Michigan, who trains with Josh Kies.

I asked Crystal why she began to train in MMA and she answered, "I just found it interesting.. I really enjoyed it."

Brie Maples defeats Savannah Smrcina

On Saturday, January, 5 2013 at Head Busters: "Warriors at War 2" at Proball Training Academy in Holton, Michigan.

Brie Maples (1-0-0) defeated Savannah Smrcina (0-1-0) by submission (kimura) thirty seconds into the first round of their 135 pound amateur Championship match.

Brie is a 5'5 eighteen year old fighter from Muskegon, Michigan where she trains at  Endurance Fitness. She has been taught by  Jacob "The Jewler Bergise, Jake Frein, and Matthew Watermen.

I asked Brie why she started MMA and this was her answer, "Well I was really sick of being told I couldn't succeed and that I would get hurt, or that it was a mans sport so I started doing it for respect and to prove everyone wrong that doubted me."

Here is a strange side note. Brie and Savannah are in fact step sisters.

Misty Gannon defeats Amy Holland

On Friday January, 4 2013 at Bluegrass Brawl 5 at Heritage Hall in Lexington, Kentucky.

Misty Gannon (1-0-0) defeated Amy Holland (0-3-0) by unanimous decision in their 165-pound amateur MMA match. (Misty missed weight and ended up fighting at 175)

Misty is a 5'7 thirty-one year old fighter from Ironton, Ohio and now living and training in Lexington, Kentucky at Georgetown MMA where she is coached by Adam Gomaz.

I asked Misty what got her started in MMA and this was her answer, "I started training with a guy by the name of Dante Wade out of Huntington, West Virginia. He is a MMA  pro fighter and owner of I Am clothing line and my love for MMA just grew from there. I moved to Georgetown, Kentucky and been training with Adam here for about a year and he said I was ready so I just had my first fight January 4. I am a mother of two, a six year old boy Jace Coats who also trains with Adam Gomez and a four year old girl Niomi Coats.

Amy Coleman defeats Sharvonda Jordan

On Saturday January, 5 2013 at 3 Fighting Championship at Smokey Mountain Convention Center in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

#13 ranked 135-pound fighter Amy Coleman (4-0-0) defeated Sharvonda Jordan (2-1-0) by submission (armbar) in the first round of their 135 pound amateur Championship match.

Amy is a 5'7 twenty-six year old fighter from West Knoxville, Tennessee. She trains at Shield Systems MMA/BJJ where she is coached by Ben Harrison.

Her other wins have come against Cara Dickey who she defeated by first round forty four second TKO. Katie Dorman who she defeated in the second round by TKO due to strikes and Brandy Davis who she also defeated in the second round by TKO due to strikes.

I asked Amy why she began to train in MMA and this was her answer, "I started MMA after years of other competitive martial arts. After trying out his program and realizing it was the only way to actually test myself and get to the next level."

Dar'ya Hamilton defeats Stacey Scapeccia

On Saturday, January, 5 at Reality Fighting "New Year's Bash" at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut.

Dar'ya Hamilton (1-0-0) defeated Stacey Scapeccia (0-1-0) by TKO due to doctor stoppage (swollen eye) in the second round of their 135-pound amateur MMA match.

Dar'ya is a 5'8 Nineteen year old fighter originally from Saratov, Russia who is now living and training in Middleboro, Massachusetts with Lauzon's MMA. She is coached by Joe Lauzon, Joe Proctor, Steve Maze, Andy Aiello, and Team Aggression.

I asked Dar'ya what got her started in MMA and this was her answer, "I got started in MMA after watching UFC fights with my family at home. It progressed from doing karate at the age of nine, to doing judo at the age of 13. After moving, I took a break from martial arts in general. I then found a jujitsu school under Wayne Marble. He taught me really well. However, we ended up moving which caused me to take a break from the martial arts for some time. At the age of 14 I picked up kickboxing and Muay Thai. At 18 I got my black belt under Louis Celona. Something was lacking however, I wanted to do more than standup. That is when I walked into Joe Lauzon's gym at the age of 18. I have been with them for about a year and it is amazing. They are a fantastic group of people and treat me like one of the guys. I am improving my entire game from jitz to wrestling to standup, and I have team aggression to thank."

Danielle Taylor defeats Lena Hellqvist

On Saturday January, 5 2013 at King of the Cage: "Future Legends 12" at Edgewater Casino in Laughlin, Nevada.

Danielle Taylor (3-0-0) defeated Lena Hellqvist (1-3-0) by TKO (due to punches) in the third round of their 115-pound amateur MMA match.

Danielle is a 5'0 twenty-three year old fighter from Palmdale, California where she trains at SoCal Fight Factory.

Danielle is coming off of a win in September of 2012 against Angela Hancock who she defeated by third round TKO. Her other win came in June of 2012 when she defeated Tamara Iglesias by first round armbar.

I asked Danielle what got her into MMA, this was her answer, "Its crazy I never planned on doing MMA in my life when I first joined SoCal Fight Factory I just wanted to learn self defense because I work for the Los Angeles County Sheriff department. But once I started taking Wrestling with Coach Tony an Judo with Coach Angel Jacobo made me want to put what I learned to the test an start competing in Wrestling Judo an Jiu jitsu. I spent my first year at SoCal fight factory competing in those three sports. Then I started to consider competing in MMA but I wanted to get my hands better before doing that. So I started taking boxing with Coach Christopher Sparks an that was the best thing I could ever do he helped me so much I felt confident enough to start competing in MMA. After my second MMA Fight I knew I was messing something big an that was Muay Thai my Coach Kru Pan help me out alot with that. Thanks to that amazing gym an coaches even the owner Rene Leyva I couldn't have done it without them."

Sara Vankammen defeats Kayla Miller: Fight Video

On Saturday January, 5 at Head Bangers MMA: "Warriors at War 2" at Proball Training Academy in Hilton, Michigan

Sara Vankammen (2-1-0) defeated Kayla Miller (0-1-0) by submission (standing guillotine) in the second round of their 115-pound amateur Championship match.

Sara is a 5'3 twenty-seven year old fighter from Muskegon, Michigan where she trains at Patino's Martial Arts and Triumph MMA. She is trained by her boyfriend  Aaron Cook.

Sara is coming off the first loss of her career against top ranked 115-pound fighter Rachael Smith in November of 2011.

The other win on her record came in August of 2011 in her MMA debut when she defeated Alyssa Rose.

 I asked Sara what got her started in MMA, this was her answer, "When amateur MMA first started to have events in Muskegon at Holiday Inn I worked there in the banquet department and was working the events. I started to get to know some of the fighters and the Promoter and learned they were looking for female fighters because there just weren't any. I grew up with four younger brothers and I was the only girl, we were all pretty close in age and they were all bigger than me! lol They all wrestled but mom never let me. My 21 year old brother Steven Vankammen had recently died of cancer and I needed a new hobby or out let . Something to keep me busy and work hard at. I have always enjoyed working out and being fit and I decided to start doing some research on where to train. I started training seriously and I fell in love! I enjoy the training and the challenge of the fight. I have learned so much in the last few years and am very grateful to all of my trainers and teammates at all the gyms I have trained at."

To see the fight video click read more below.

Rianne Whiting defeats Amanda Haller

On Saturday January, 5 2013 at Grand Junction Fight Night at Two Rivers Convention Center in Grand Junction, Colorado.

Rianne Whiting (3-2-0) defeated Amanda Haller (0-1-0) by TKO (technical submission) due to referee stoppage in the first round of their 125-pound amateur MMA match.

Rianne caught Amanda in an armbar but she would not tap even after her arm wa broken, causing the referee to stop the fight.

Rianne is a 5'4 thirty year old fighter from Utah.

She is coming off of a two fight losing streak, in her last fight in October of 2012 Ri Ri as she is known, was defeated Sharon Jacobson. The other loss of her career came against DeAnna Bennett  in September of 2011.

Her other wins have come against Kershel Claussen and Na'Chelle Catron.

Andy Nguyen defeats Jashanna Bynum: Fight Video

On Saturday January, 5 2013 at Conflict MMA: Carolina Cage Fights" at Township Auditorium in Charleston, South Carolina.

#16 ranked 115-pound fighter Andy "Asian Persuasion" Nguyen (4-5-0) defeated Jashanna Bynum (0-1-0) by TKO due to ground and pound in the second round of their 120 pound amateur MMA match.

Andy is a 5'4 thirty year old fighter and ring girl from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina where she trains at Fitness Edge MMA where she is coached by Tomar Washington and Walker Vivian.

I asked Andy why she began in MMA and this was her answer, "I went to a MMA event and I've been hooked ever since."

Andy was originally scheduled to face Delaney Owen but she dropped out and Jashanna stepped up on late notice to take the fight.

Andy is coming off of a two fight losing streak that saw her lose to Hannah Cifers (3-0) and Ashley Greenway.

She holds victories over Jessamine Ali, Liz Hardee and Shannon Morales.

To see the video click read more below.

Shannon Reid defeats Adrian Crocker

On Saturday January, 5 2013 at King of the Cage: "Future legends 12" at Edgewater Casino in Laughlin, Nevada.

Shannon Reid (1-1-0) defeated Adrian Crocker (0-1-0) by unanimous decision in their 145-pound amateur MMA match.

Shannon is a 5'6 twenty-seven year old fighter from Lake Havasu, Arizona who trains at Kingman Combat where she is coached by Jamie Point and Rick Lucero

She last fought in October of 2012 when she made her MMA debut. She was defeated by Julia Avila (3-0)

I asked Shannon what got her started in MMA, here is her answer, "I started in MMA and grappling in 2009, I had a dream women would be able to compete in the UFC and I was very overweight, 240 lbs to be exact. So I just started working hard...got sidelined by a couple injuries but I am gonna take as many fights as my work and coaches allow me to."

Julia Avila defeats Vikki Marlow

On Saturday, January, 5 at King of the Cage: "Future Legends 12" at Edgewater Casino in Laughlin, Nevada.

#26 ranked 135-pound fighter Julia Avila (3-0-0) defeated Vikki Marlow (0-1-0) by KO at twenty-one seconds of the first round of their 135-pound amateur MMA match.

Julia is a 5'7 twenty-four year old fighter from Bakersfield, California where she trains at Eric Nolan's Xtreme Kick Boxing and MMA and at Camarillo's Jiujitsu. She is coached by Bryan Travers, Eric Nolan, and Dan Camarillo.

Her other victories came against Shannon Reid who she knocked out in the first round and Marion Reneau who she defeated by unanimous decision.

I asked Julia what got her started in MMA here is her answer, "
I have always been an athlete and after college I figured fighting would be a good avenue to invest my spare time off of work. I threw the hammer and weight for the University of Notre dame and was very active in Santa Cruz with the studio workouts (Zumba, cardio kick boxing, body pump and self defense martial arts). I even ran a marathon for my 21st birthday instead of going out and "getting hammered." I've always been an odd duck and ridiculously driven to do what I set my mind to. I wanted to fight, so I found a place to do it. After being shuffled around for a year, someone took interest and noticed my talent and determination. Travers took me under his wing and I attribute any and all skill and my current path of success by his direction. Nolan has done amazing work with the technique of my hands (as shown through my MMA record and the record of my MMA teammates). Camarillo is a great instructor and has really taught me well on my ground game, again shown through my record in gi and no gi grappling tournaments.
Honesty, I don't have to be a fighter. I don't have to be on this diet, workout for 6 hours a day, stress about making weight, cry everyday the week of fights from nerves, be unbearably sore from workouts, compromise my "crazy 20s" to hit the gym, sacrifice two relationships and have a null love life (whomp whomp)... Nope I don't have to do any of these things. I am a geosciencist with my BS in geology and have a really good paying job, plus, I am a well rounded athlete that actively participates in centuries and marathons to supplement my fighting. So, why do I do this? Because, I want to be a positive role model for people, and it's been working... God has given me this opportunity to influence people of all ages, ethnicity's, sizes, and genders and I intend to fulfill His will to the best of my ability. That's why I fight.
I am just the girl next door, I snort when I laugh and I have a crazy obsession with pandas... Just don't put me in a ring."

Carla "Cookie Monster" Esparza vs. Bec "Rowdy" Hyatt

On Saturday, January, 5 at Invicta FC 4: "Esparza vs. Hyatt" at Memorial Hall in Kansas City, Kansas, in the main event of the evening,

#5 ranked 115 pound fighter Carla "Cookie Monster" Esparza (8-2-0) will take on #26 ranked 115 pound fighter Bec "Rowdy" Hyatt  for the 115-pound Invicta FC Strawweight Championship.

Carla is a 5'1 twenty-five year old fighter from Redondo Beach, California where she trains at Team Oyama where she is coached by Colin Oyama and Giva Sanatana (BJJ) Her main training partner is uncle creepy himself Ian McCall.

Carla is coming into this fight on a roll as she has just mowed down her competition. She is on a three fight winning streak and in this humble mans opinion, should have got the win against Jessica Aguilar in their battle on June, 25th at Bellator 46, a match that Carla lost by split-decision.

She started her career in February of 2010 winning her first three fights all by finishes in only a five month span. One of those finishes was a rear-naked choke victory over Lacey Schuckman. On August, 12 2010 Carla stepped up to  face Undefeated MMA legend Megumi Fujii on short notice.She was very competitive in the first round and a half even taking Megumi down but it was not to be as the legend slapped on one of her patented come out of nowhere armbars submitting Carla in the second round.

She then went on from that lesson and won her next two fights including a very close decision victory over Nina Ansaroff and a .first round rear-naked choke victory over Yadira Anzudala.

Next came her return to Bellator on June, 25th 2011 where she would lose a controversial match to #1 ranked 115-pound fighter Jessica Aguilar, I fight that I personally scored in Carla's favor even though it was in Jessica's home state.

Next for Carla was her now best buddy #7 ranked 115 pound fighter Felice Herrig who she easily controlled on the ground with vicious ground and pound witch caused a large hematoma to form above Felice's eye. Carla easily won all three rounds on the judges card for a unanimous decision.

On July, 28th at Invicta FC 2 Carla again won in dominant fashion this time defeating Sarah Schneider by TKO due to ground and pound.in the second round of their fight.

On the very next Invicta event on October, 6th she took on #17 ranked 115 pound fighter Lynn Alvarez who she  promptly took care of in the first round of their fight with ground and pound for her second  TKO victory in a row.

 Bec is a 5'6 twenty-three year old fighter from Brisbane, Australia. She trains at Impact MMA.

Bec is coming off a four fight win streak that has seen her compete against four opponents with a combined record of (0-5) She has never defeated a fighter with a win on thier record. The only loss of her career came against Rhiannon Thompson (3-0) who defeated her by head kick knockout.

Although She has never faced anyone in the cage with a victory, Bec makes up for it with her great personality. She is one of the most popular fighters in the world because of her interaction with fans through Twitter and Facebook. Other fighters can take a lesson from her and Ronda Rousey on how to market themselves.

This match will be the main event and the two fighters will be fighting for the inaugural Invicta FC 115 pound Strawweight championship of the World.

You can watch Invicta FC on pay-per view  for $7.95 at 6pm CST at Invictafc.com

Photos courtesy of Esther Lin & Invicta FC

Shayna "Queen Of Spades" Baszler vs. Alexis "Ally-Gator" Davis

On Saturday January, 5 at Invicta Fighting Championship 4: "Esparza vs. Hyatt" at Memorial Hall in Kansas City, Kansas

#6 ranked 135 pound fighter Shayna "Queen of Spades" Baszler (15-7-0) will face off against #7 ranked 135 pound fighter Alexis "Ally-Gator" Davis ( 12-5-0) in a 135 pound professional MMA rematch.

The first fight between these two ladies took place on March, 27th 2010 when Shayna Baszler defeated Alexis Davis by unanimous decision.

Shayna is a 5'7 thirty-two year old fighter from Sioux Falls, South Dakota where she trains at Next Edge Academy of Martial Arts and CSW.

She is coming off of a very impressive second round rear-naked choke win over Sarah D'Alelio at Invicta FC 3 on October, 6th.

Before that at Invicta FC 2 on July, 28th Shayna would lose by unanimous decision in a fight that some felt she should have won, against Olympic silver medalist in wrestling Sara McMann.

Before fighting for Invica Shayna was having a tough time finding fights and had not fought for nearly two years before her fight with Sara. Her last match was on November, 19 2010 when she defeated highly ranked 145 pound fighter Elaina Maxwell by first round kneebar.

All of Shayna's losses have come to top competition and her last loss before McMann came in June of 2009 when she was defeated by unanimous decision at Strikeforce by Sarah Kaufman.

Other losses have come against Cristiane "Cyborg" Santos in July of 2008, when she was just demolished by Cyborg with a second round TKO loss due to punches. In February of 2007 Shayna would lose to Tara LaRosa by TKO due to punches in the second round of thier match. She also holds two losses to fellow women's MMA pioneer Amanda Buckner who defeated her by first round armbar in thier first fight and by TKO due to punches in thier second fight. The first loss of her career came back in may of 2004 when she was defeated by Kelly Kobold by submission due to punches.

A impressive as the list of women who have defeated Shayna is, even more impressive are the fighters Shayna has defeated. Starting MMA back in October of 2003 Shayna ran off two straight victories by defeating little known fighters Tina Johnson (0-1) and Christy Zimmerman (0-1) After her first loss to Kelly, Shayna would again win her next two fights this time against Heather Lobs (0-1) and Cindy Romero (0-2) All four of Shayna's victories to start off her career would be won by submission.

Her next win would come after her first loss to Amanda Buckner when she defeated Invicta FC commentator Julie Kedzie by first round armbar. After her second loss to Amanda, Shayna would rebound with a very impressive win over Roxanne Modafferi by first round kimura. After her loss to Tara LaRosa, she would go on to win her next four fights, which is the longest winning streak of her career. The streak included wins over Samantha Anderson (0-2) Jan Finney (8-10) Jennifer Tate (5-1) and Keiko Tamai (16-15) All four wins would be by submission. After the first and only two fight losing streak of her career Shayna would bounce back by defeating Megumi Yabushita in January of 2010. This victory was by first round submission due to a twister. Shayna had done something no one before her or no one since has ever done and that is she submitted the first eleven women that she ever defeated. None of those first eleven wins would go to decision. her next fight however in March of 2010 would go the distance and Shayna would walk away with her first unanimous decision victory over Alexis Davis. She would end her second four fight winning streak with a victory over A.J Jenkins in June of 2010 and her previously mentioned victory over Elaina Maxwell.

Alexis is a 5'5 twenty eight year old fighter originally from Port Colborne, Canada and now living and training in San Fransisco, California with The Cesar Gracie Fight Team where she is coached by Alessandro Ferreira and Combat Sports Academy where she is coached by Kirian Fitzgibbons.

I asked Alexis how she started in MMA and this was her response, "I had kick boxing classes and not long after I was persuaded to join in Brazilian jiu jitsu. After falling in love with both Martial Arts I was introduced to sparring. I soon fell in love with that too.. After watching one of my team mates train for an up coming fight, I knew that was a path I wanted to take as well. And even after losing my first fight I still loved it and still continued to train everyday!"

As Alexis stated she started her career off with a loss that was back in April of 2007 when she was defeated by Sarah Kaufman. As she also stated she continued to train hard and the result was a six fight winning streak between may of 2007 until November of 2008. Victims of the tear that Alexis was on include, Jody Wadsworth (1-1) Tannaya Hantelman (3-4) Valerie Letourneau (4-3) Lizbeth Carreiro (5-10) Kat Roy (2-2) and Margarita Kolmykova (0-1).

The person that would bring an end to that winning streak would be Tara LaRosa who would defeat Alexis by TKO due to doctor stoppage in the third round of thier great fight.

Alexis would win her next fight in October of 2009 when she defeated Molly Helsel by unanimous decision. Her next fight in march of 2010 would be her unanimous decision loss to Shayna Baszler. 

Alexis next two wins would come against Tonya Evinger first in May of 2010 when Alexis won by third round rear-naked choke. The other win came in November of 2010 and ended with the same result making Alexis the Raging Wolf 135 pound champion. Between those two wins over Tonya, Alexis would face Elaina Maxwell in what was supposed to be for the Raging Wolf 135 pound championship but because Elaina did not make weight, was changed to a three rounder with Elaina taking the unanimous decision.

On July, 30th 2011 Alexis would get the call to the big show to face Julie Kedzie at Strikeforce and after another great match she would take the unanimous decision victory. Next for Alexis was Amanda Nunes who she dominated and defeated by TKO due to punches in the second round of thier match. Next was a shot at the former Strikeforce 135 pound champion Sarah Kaufman. This fight would go on to becoming one of the greatest matches in Women's MMA history and is probably the runner-up to the greatest Women's fight of all-time, Smith vs Young I. Sarah would come out on top with a razor thin majority decision.

A new chapter in the career of Alexis would begin on July, 28th 2012 when she would join Invicta FC and take on Hitomi Akano. Once again Alexis would look dominant and take an easy rear-naked choke victory against a very good fighter in the second round of thier match.

This fight is too close to call. Both fighters are the best they have ever been and nothing near the two fighters who faced eachother  almost three years ago.

You can watch Invicta FC on pay-per view  for $7.95 at 6pm CST at Invictafc.com

Photos courtesy of Esther Lin & Invicta FC