The Colorado Fight League includes Steel City Rumble Colorado's largest promotion and its 10 associated regional MMA promotions throughout the state. The Colorado Fight League spotlights fighters from Colorado as they move up the ranks of professional combat sports including MMA Boxing and Grappling.
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
MMA "Grows up" Pueblo MMA Coach joins ranks
Several years ago MMA was considered more entertainment than sport, much like Pro Wrestling. Fighters lacked any real identity with the general public hence UFC's big push to develop 24/7 style shows in the spirit of HBO's popular namesakes. To see MMA even considered alongside traditional collegiate, scholastic sports was almost unheard of, until 2013. Pacific Warrior MMA in Pueblo is proud to announce head coach Gabe Charboneau was voted a silver award at the annual Best in Pueblo awards for committment to the sport and community. Charboneau digressed, stating that the award was a byproduct of the positive efforts of the coaches, students and family around him at Pacific Warrior than his own efforts. The award was not relegated to simply combat sports but coaches throughout the area in track, baseball, wrestling etc. Charboneau states "The real credit should be given to our amazing staff of coaches Steve Stickler (BJJ) Haven Torres (grappling /kids) Bruce Ries (Wrestling) Zach Valdez (Wrestling) Jeff Santos (Striking) and our wonderful advisors Donnie Liles and Tori Adams who aid in the development of our programs. We are proud to make good fighters but we would rather develop better people along the way." To see the official awards site follow the link below: http://www.bestofpueblo.com/2013/places-faces/coach-2/
Setting up the Takedown With Striking Coach Gabe Charboneau
Video Courtesy of Fight Life Media, Fight Life Las Vegas Professional MMA and Striking Coach Gabe "Kuya" Charboneau shows how to integrate strikes with clinch and takedowns. Kuya has worked with elite level athletes in Boxing, MMA, Muay Thai and more for over 20 years, is a frequent coach at CBD Tuff Camp alongside Matt Lindland, All American and Team Noguiera coach Eric Alberricin, Keith Wilson and more.
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Cultural Considerations in Boxing
Little Discussed Topic Hits Mainstream
Boxing great Bernard Hopkins recently came under a rash of scrutiny amidst his sentiments in a post fight interview where he stated the reasons he felt a Mexican fighter has not yet beat Floyd Mayweather. The controversial statement asserted that only blacks understood his manner of fighting and it could not be comprehended by a Mexican. While many in the boxing community were quick to cry racism in the wake of the interview, I implore you to examine the context and validity of B-Hops theory. Those I have worked with in the striking realm have heard me speak about the same stylistic and cultural nuances for years and as a strong proponent of the “sweet science” the importance of understanding various guard structures to include crab shell, peek-a-boo, Mexican or Filipino style and of course the Philly shell in question. That stated, I have said it before and I’ll say it again people disdain that which they fail to understand.
Over the course of the last 20 years or so that I have been teaching in the Southwest I have seen one boxing coach after the other tell any young fighter who does not box in the traditional Mexican style how wrong they are whether it is working for them or not. This has went so far as to have heard coaches say,”Your gonna get knocked out for boxing like a (_ insert Spanish slur here_)”. I can only shake my head in response to such narrow minded thinking and wish the kid would say “Ok you’re saying there’s only one way to move the human body and you have the monopoly on that right coach?” I agree with Hopkins that your personal interpretation of boxing is largely influenced by cultural and environmental considerations as those intrinsic factors ultimately make up your expression of style. The African American boxing experience is one based upon too many factors to discuss individually but suffice to say that it includes the importance of rhythm, footwork, music and its associated guarding structures developed over a century of situational necessity that we have come to know as “styles.” Other considerations include the way information has been passed on to generations of inner-city youngsters via the “slap boxing” method of play growing up. While considered a game used to develop the neighborhood pecking order it is often ones first introduction to and the eventual reinforced behavior that precedes boxing proper. Notice that like the “Philly Shell” It is based upon hitting without getting hit, and leaning just out of reach and behind the shoulder.
In contrast, the Mexican Style was born out of the same pride and nationalism that boxing icon Julio Cesar Chavez was made famous for. He never “ran” as most Mexican boxing fans would say “He came to fight, moved ahead and never quit.” This style aligns itself largely with the Mexican cultural concept of “Machismo” or manliness. As such, the guard itself its centered and allows for forward pressure and balance for power punching versus the traditional “African American” stance performed with head slightly off center and over the back foot to present a false target forcing the opponents right hand to travel further, overextending its reach. I will however, humbly disagree that either style is impossible to attain and is instead in the hands of the practitioner themselves and based upon either their open mindedness to develop the skill over a period of time or, two coming from a similar environment taking on the style via spontaneity by rote as a child learns by environmental submersion. Anyone who says it’s impossible for Hispanics to develop rhythm only need look at the history of breakdance which was influenced by Hispanics as much as blacks in the early 80’s. Look at half of the top current dance crews in the world and you will see Filipinos as well. If we appreciate and embrace the stylistic differences that various cultures the world over can contribute to our pursuit of pugilistic/combative knowledge just think of what one could accomplish. And while everyone is in a hurry to rush out and emulate FMM and his style of boxing, it is understanding The whys of doing and not just the HOW of doing that allow for growth. Study up, get your game right, get your game tight. -Kuya.
Boxing great Bernard Hopkins recently came under a rash of scrutiny amidst his sentiments in a post fight interview where he stated the reasons he felt a Mexican fighter has not yet beat Floyd Mayweather. The controversial statement asserted that only blacks understood his manner of fighting and it could not be comprehended by a Mexican. While many in the boxing community were quick to cry racism in the wake of the interview, I implore you to examine the context and validity of B-Hops theory. Those I have worked with in the striking realm have heard me speak about the same stylistic and cultural nuances for years and as a strong proponent of the “sweet science” the importance of understanding various guard structures to include crab shell, peek-a-boo, Mexican or Filipino style and of course the Philly shell in question. That stated, I have said it before and I’ll say it again people disdain that which they fail to understand.
Over the course of the last 20 years or so that I have been teaching in the Southwest I have seen one boxing coach after the other tell any young fighter who does not box in the traditional Mexican style how wrong they are whether it is working for them or not. This has went so far as to have heard coaches say,”Your gonna get knocked out for boxing like a (_ insert Spanish slur here_)”. I can only shake my head in response to such narrow minded thinking and wish the kid would say “Ok you’re saying there’s only one way to move the human body and you have the monopoly on that right coach?” I agree with Hopkins that your personal interpretation of boxing is largely influenced by cultural and environmental considerations as those intrinsic factors ultimately make up your expression of style. The African American boxing experience is one based upon too many factors to discuss individually but suffice to say that it includes the importance of rhythm, footwork, music and its associated guarding structures developed over a century of situational necessity that we have come to know as “styles.” Other considerations include the way information has been passed on to generations of inner-city youngsters via the “slap boxing” method of play growing up. While considered a game used to develop the neighborhood pecking order it is often ones first introduction to and the eventual reinforced behavior that precedes boxing proper. Notice that like the “Philly Shell” It is based upon hitting without getting hit, and leaning just out of reach and behind the shoulder.
Oscar De La Hoya Stance Shown |
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
MOOSE SIGHTING- BRUCE RIES TAKES TALENT FROM MAT TO CAGE
With a youthful look that betrays his status as a veteran competitor, Bruce Ries is making growing waves in the Colorado MMA community. The former standout wrestler and Ring of Fire veteran from Pueblo, Colorado has become a staple of the states southern scene and is making positive moves towards success. It wasn’t always so however, as his early career was a lesson in self sacrifice and personal growth. Having lost his first two pro fights as a smaller welterweight “The Moose” as he is called had to make some tough decisions to get back to his normal fighting weight of 155. With a renewed passion and the guidance of team members Donnie Liles and Jeff Santos he set out to refocus and refine his approach to training and it has paid off with his last 3 fights all in his favor. Ries is known for his uncanny clinch game and plans to continue working to diversify his ever evolving skillset. “I try to train and spar with guys who are better than me whether its with my team here at home or in Colorado Springs at Pariah and I believe that one should never stop growing.” “Years ago I came in as just a wrestler, but I work hard to add at least one new tool to my arsenal every fight.”
Ries, now 24 years old recently signed a management agreement with burgeoning mma organization “Global Proving Ground” (www.globalprovingground.com) and is optimistic about where his career is headed. When asked what advice he would give to aspiring young fighters he stated: “Life’s too short to live with halfway attempts, you gotta be all the way in or get all the way out, no excuses no regrets”. -ed
Bruce Ries Highlight reel
Ries vs Caballero Ring of Fire |
Bruce Ries Highlight reel
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
FEAR THE BEARD
Donnie Liles Above |
Pueblo, CO Augst 14th 2013-In the stark landscape of Colorado MMA’s middleweight division one name rings above all others, Donnie Liles. The former Strike Force and IFL contender (16-6) who was recently named atop his category by Spartan labs Inc. has been on a tear in his last eight outings with only one minor blemish, a controversial decision loss to fellow Strike Force powerhouse Joey Villasenor in his backyard of Albuquerque, New Mexico. With every one of his last five outings nominated with F.O.N or S.O.N accolades and dominating performances over newly signed Bellator talent like Jeremy Kimball, Colorado standout Jason Clayton and impressive finishes against top level veterans like Seth Baczynski and Pete Spratt one has to beg the question.. When will UFC take notice? A little known age stipulation which caps participation in TUF tryouts at 34 has since barred Liles from taking part in the casting process and relegates him to traditional matchmaking measures for consideration.
Sporting the trademark beard that is the hallmark of Liles persona is becoming somewhat of a social media phenomenon with fans and supporters alike taking on shave challenges, uploading their own photos and even spurring cause-related marketing ideas for charities. When asked about the symbolism behind the imagery to Donnie Liles states: “Fear the Beard” stands for defiance. It means standing strong in the face of adversity despite the insurmountable challenges we face in life.” Fittingly enough, Liles will face his next big life challenge when he meets Factory X up and comer Adam Stroup as the main event for Sparta Combat Leagues which is slated for September in Loveland Colorado. Stroup, whom as of this writing is undefeated at 4-0 will no-doubt have his hands full with the unshaven one when they meet. A striking technician who stands well over 6 foot, he will be looking to keep the fight standing where he can use his full arsenal of tools. However, school and reputation notwithstanding, his wins have all come primarily by submission a deceivingly important fact that will come into play in the later rounds where Liles seems to shine.
Liles longtime friend, mentor and striking trainer Gabe Charboneau noted: “We are thankful to Jeff Cisneros for giving Donnie a shot on Sparta Combat League.” There is very little competition left regionally for him and it get’s increasingly tough to match him with every fight but Jeff has really risen to the occasion and been supportive in every way.” When asked about a possible strategy for the anticipated match-up he added: “Not a lot will change preparation wise for this fight.” “Donnie has great sparring partners, team mates and coaching available to him at Pariah and Pacific Warrior MMA along with the love and support of his best friend and other- half Tori Adams, an elite grappling competitor and pro fighter herself so she understands the intricacies of an athletes home based needs.” “There may be a few strategic surprises but you have to wait for fight night for those.”
One thing is certain, Fear the Beard has become so much more than a catch phrase.. It is at its core symbolic of pride, vigilance and a never ending quest that says: “Open up the door Big Show, because Donnie Liles is here. For media requests, booking info, or sponsorship of Donnie Liles contact: gabe@nuworldmedia.com for ticket information or show details: www.spartcombatmma.com
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
Donnie Liles Victorious again at MFW
Colorado Springs, CO June 28th 2013- To the
delight of a capacity hometown crowd Friday night, Donnie ”Fear the Beard”
Liles outfought, and outmaneuvered a
game Jason “The Juggernaught” Clayton for a hard fought first round submission
victory as the main event of Made For War.
The rematch proved to be every bit as action packed as fans had hoped
with continuous back and forth action that had Liles starting strong then seemingly
in trouble after a glancing knockdown and tight standing guillotine. Demonstrating his mettle, Liles transitioned
smoothly from two on one to crotch lift to a sit out that created a scramble
and escape with him standing over Clayton raining shots. Defending well, Clayton seemed to be
regaining composure when Liles with foot in hand unexpectedly sat back for the
fight ending heel hook victory and submission of the night honors. With this win, Donnie Liles advances his
record to 16-6 with his only blemish in his last 8 fights being a decision loss
to Joey Villasenor in the Jackson fighter’s hometown. He has compiled a growing number of accolades
ranging from top 185 lbs. pro in Colorado to multiple fight and submission of
the night honors. Unbeknownst to many, Liles was also one of the final cast
cuts for this season’s launch of the Bellator reality series in late December a
move that most would agree was to the detriment of the network and promotion as
Liles popularity, action packed style and trademark beard continue to
grow. One thing is certain, a revolution is forming
around the Fear the Beard movement and Donnie Liles, cannot and will not go
ignored for long.
For booking and or sponsorship information:
Thursday, May 2, 2013
Musgrave and Grelck Collide at Rumble 10
Promotional Powerhouse Rolls on in Pueblo
Musgrave Courtesy of CMO Photo |
Pueblo, Colorado May 2nd 2013-At a time when most professional fighters struggle to remain
consistent, Ricky Musgrave has had a whirlwind last couple of years racking up
an impressive 10 fight resume in the process. The 29 year old who fights out of Pariah MMA
in the Springs is a rising star on the Colorado MMA scene and rapidly becoming
a force to be reckoned with at 145 lbs.
Musgrave who started his Colorado career as a welterweight has found a
home in the lighter divisions and while he’s known for his dynamic Muay Thai
which was honed in it’s homeland he has come full circle with wins over
talented grapplers including Bryant Craven and Travis Coyle. Musgrave credits his success largely to his
trainers and teammates at Pariah MMA which plays host to a multitude of world
class talent.
Talent level notwithstanding, Musgrave will be taken to task
when he faces Kickdown and Cage Wars Champion Brad Grelck as the main event for
Steel City Rumble 10 May 18th in Pueblo . Grelck, a Wyoming native will enter the cage the
larger of the two at 6 feet and a catch weight of 152.5 from his normal
155. According to Kickdown president
Steve Ally, “You couldn’t ask for a more exciting main event, Grelck sets a
fast pace and never disappoints.”
Brad Grelck |
Grelck
has been on a tear as of late with his last two wins coming by way of
submission victory in the first round.
Grelck will look to derail Musgrave’s rise in the ranks when they meet
as the main event of Steel City Rumble 10 at the Colorado
State Fair
Events Center
in Pueblo , not
just another show.. It’s an experience!
For more information log on to www.steelcityrumble.com tickets
available at the Colorado State Fair Box office or via the website link.
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
Ries Returns to Rumble Ten
Amateur veteran comes full circle
Bruce "The Moose" Ries |
Ries now 24 years old is coming off wins over veteran
Jose”Luis” Murillo at Mayhem 3 in Lamar and Pueblo's Kevin Carter previously and will be looking to garner a repeat
performance at Rumble. “It was a big
fight for me because Murillo has fought wars in the ring.” stated
Ries. I have a ton of respect for Jose,
knew that he would come forward and would not quit so we put together a dirty boxing
strategy to beat him in the clinch and not on the ground where he thought we
would want to go and it worked.” Work it did, as the Moose battered and bruised
the aging warrior for 3 rounds with a combination of knees elbows and dirty boxing tactics.
Enter Santana Martinez who enters the cage with almost as
many fights as Murillo and is known for the same tenacity and drag out brawls
as the former and you have a recipe for an amazing co-main event. Martinez will
no doubt seek to add another plus to his current record which reads like a who’s
who in both columns of Colorado
mma with wins over Grudge fighter Vinnie "The Assault" Lopez and Bellator veteran Aaron
Romero and losses to Ramico Blackmon and Josh Cavan.
“I expect Santana to come in
every bit as tough and prepared as Murillo states Ries. The last couple of years have really been a
struggle to dial myself in, get my diet in check and conditioning right.
Santana Sol Martinez |
We took some fights at different weights that
proved I need to be back at 155 and possibly even lower. I guess we will see but for right now
I feel better than I ever have!”
One thing is certain we will see at Steel City Rumble 10 and
that is fireworks when Bruce Ries and Santana “Sol” Martinez collide.
For more information log on to steelcityrumble.com Tickets available at Colorado State Fair Box Office.
Press release courtesy of:
M&L Landscaping, Print Pros, Anderson
and Lopez attorneys at law and Wicked Paint in Pueblo.
Thursday, April 4, 2013
Respect & credit your wisdom By Gabe Charboneau
Respect & credit your wisdom
By Gabe "Kuya" Charboneau
The sport of mixed martial arts often times today presents a double edged sword:
The great thing about MMA today is it allows easy access to training.
The bad thing about MMA today is it allows easy access to training.
When does access become too easy and the wisdom imparted by a good coach or instructor undervalued? The great coaches of our era are fast becoming extinct. Men with names like Eddie Futch, Cus D'mato, and many others who's lives read like an encyclopedia of knowledge on the subject of combat.
In today's society if one wants to learn from Greg Jackson, Freddie Roach or any of the famed Gracie names one has only to log on to you-tube to obtain a private one on one. For the right price one can simply "send away" for an internet learning program complete with the instructor who will fly in periodically to belt your students in an odd format that allows white belts to teach so they can continue to generate enrollment for the academy. This creates a situation where the head of the program is forced to rank the instructor of the academy in a matter of months vs the traditional method so the new white belts can advance their stripes. Still others, claiming no allegiance to any one gym or school utilize the drop in policy and relaxed atmosphere most mma gyms maintain under the guise of "cross training." They are often welcome to the same quality of instruction enjoyed by the paying full time students at a fraction of the cost and once fulfilled are able to move about freely to the next academy. Right or wrong, this is part and partial of the sports continuing development and man's unquenchable thirst for want it all and want it now.
What is the value of a good teacher?
To this end I maintain that the best coaches are bound to their students by chemistry. One has only to see the relationship between Freddie Roach and Mannie Pacquiao to realize that the magic made by those two may never have happened between another combination. In era's past the student had to gain the trust and acceptance of the teacher, tasks were assigned and standards set to gain entry to the inner sanctum. Respect, loyalty, sweat and hard work were not only expected but demanded. I am a firm believer in preserving the teachings and contributions of the old guard so that this knowledge may be shared for generations to come. This lies at the heart of the paradox described in the first paragraph of this article. It cannot and should not be taken for granted. It has become too easy to gleam once guarded material and continue to do so with little regard for the source from whence it came. I had to travel around the world over the years for my martial education. I saved my money and went to the sources to get it. I never expected free, was respectful and worked hard. Along this journey my pads have touched the gloves of elite level pros and beginners alike yet I have never failed to credit knowledge shared with me. Even today if working with another coach or instructor at their gym I ask permission if there's something I particularly like and I ask them if I may reshare it.
Teaching is often soul work and most fighters today pay little for wisdom gained over a lifetime of a good coach. Honor them by helping their teachings live on
Friday, March 29, 2013
Gabe Charboneau's Pacific Warrior MMA CMTA's newest affiliate gym.
Pacific Warrior MMA and Bombers boxing in Pueblo, Colorado have joined the ranks of the Colorado Muay Thai Association. Pacific Warrior Island Arts Academy, long known as a premier source for striking instruction and a destination for SE Asian combat arts in Southern Colorado looks to uphold the proud tradition that founder "Kru Oscar Martinez" of Colorado Muay Thai has become synonymous with in the region. "We look forward to continuing the organizations efforts to build a localized platform for Thailand's national sport." Stated Coach Charboneau of PWIA. "There are so many beautiful regionalized variations of the art throughout South East Asia, from Thailand, to Burma, Cambodia to the Philippines and we are proud to perpetuating the rich cultural traditions of the area.
More info on the CMTA can be found below:
More info on the CMTA can be found below:
We established the Colorado Muay Thai Association in 2011 with the goal to promote and protect the art of Muay Thai. Our focus is to increase the overall awareness and participation in the sport. Our mission is to spread the popularity of the sport within the State of Colorado and to provide fighters with a platform to showcase and grow their skills through certified instruction, world class seminars, amateur tournaments and promotions.
Our judges and referees have been trained under the direction of the Sport Authority of Thailand and WBC Muay Thai licensed referee and judge Dej "Nokweed" Sri-Ampai.
Check out our membership page on more ways that you can become involved in this community
Labels:
boxing pueblo,
gabe charboneau,
gabe charboneau mma,
mma pueblo,
muay thai pueblo,
pacific warrior mma,
pwia mma,
ultimate performance pueblo
Location:
2202 Lake Avenue, Pueblo, CO 81004, USA
Thursday, March 28, 2013
Donnie Liles Says “Fear the Beard” Wins at No Mercy
March 22nd
2013 Colorado Springs CO- The shaven head and magnificent beard that has
become the trademark of Strikeforce and IFL Veteran Donnie Liles are fast
becoming a brand that stands for high impact slams and bone twisting
submissions.
True to that brand, Liles defeated veteran Michael the “Minister”
Riggs in short order Saturday at No Mercy Extreme Fighting with Riggs succumbing
to a ligament stretching arm bar early in round one. With this win Liles moves to 15-6
overall. Striking trainer/mentor Gabe Charboneau stated, “Donnie has had so much success over the last
several years and has made a very public sentiment that he will not back down,
will not be ignored and will do what it takes to retain his standing on the
bigger stages.”
His career has not been without its share of setbacks
however, as he was released from the final roster of the Bellator Reality show
just prior to entering production and a secondary offer on Bellator’s New
Mexico debut fell through just two weeks prior to the show due to an opponent injury.
Liles Ready For War |
Charboneau adds, “If you look at Donnie’s last seven fights, he’s won and or dominated every one earning several fight of the night and several submission of the night honors in the process, he definitely comes to handle business.” Left in the wake of the aforementioned carnage were then and since undefeated Jason “The Juggernaut” Clayton, Pete "The Weapon" Spratt, Seth Baczynsky and the highly touted Jeremy Kimball of Team Wildman.
The only blemish of his longstanding win streak was a 3 round decision loss
to Strike force/Pride veteran Joey Villasenor as the headline event on the Jackson ’s MMA series. (Noteably held on the reservation in Villasenor’s backyard.) The decision was subsequently contested via the Isleta tribal commission yet despite video review and a lengthy appeal process, the decision held firm in a mire of red tape and unanswered calls.
Moving Forward
Donnie Liles continues to push forward in his quest to
regain his former glory. Returning to
his early roots with Fight Factory (Now Pariah MMA) in Colorado Springs he is armed with a list of short term fight obligations, elite training partners and
new found optimism. The trademark scowl
and bearded appearance that have become his hallmark cry marketability and echo
the resounding warning.. Fear the Beard, Donnie Liles is here.
Sponsors and or booking agents may contact:
Monday, March 25, 2013
The Importance of Drilling and “Proper Sparring” in MMA
I have said it before and often that one of the biggest
downfalls of the popularity in the sport of mma is that it grew too big too
fast. What ensued after the popularity boom of the late 90’s (and still
continues today) was a mass race to cash in on popularity, perceived cash flow,
and social status. The end result was a mix of good and bad with the bad being largely unregulated less than credible instructors, trendy wanna-be tough guys, non-standardized curriculum and sometimes greedy promoters looking to make a buck. To this end, the fact that anyone can rent a
storefront, hang a sign and say they are an mma school can make finding a place to train a sometimes daunting endeavor.
GO HARD OR GO HOME?
I have seen gyms that base their entire syllabus only on
sparring and rolling hard every class. These are the knuckleheads I often hear
coaching cage side who's idea of corner instruction is relegated to: “BE
STRONGER” or “TAP HIM OUT!” Now, let me
follow the aforementioned statement with my affirmation that yes, sparring is
important but of even more importance is where it lies within your overall
training regimen and how it’s structured.
If you take one thing from this article take this “Sparring without
proper drilling is useless.” Let me
expand by taking for a second Manny Pacquiao or any other high level boxer during
a pre-fight camp where making a living is on the line. Sparring is purposeful and pre-planned with each
session focusing on individual attributes, defense, or offense that is being
emphasized for the upcoming opponent. It is based upon controlled drilling, specific
pad work to reinforce the behavior and solidified by starting slow and building
the response in a free flow environment i.e. sparring. If the fighter is worried about getting his
head taken off every session, he will revert to what is natural for him to do
and never absorb the new behavioral patterns. This becomes even more apparent in
the world of mma where trainers are often faced with the task of transforming
wrestlers into strikers and vice versa.
If the fighter in question enters every sparring session with a “balls
to the wall” mindset he will always resort to his base and will largely remain
the same fighter over the course of his career, one dimensional and
predictable. When you couple this with the injuries that tend to result as part
of this teaching method it becomes painfully apparent that neither participant is
learning, merely only testing their manhood to the enjoyment of fan boys turned
coaches who believe sparring is the fight and not a tool.
Drill the Skill
Technique sessions should beget drilling sessions which
should in turn be broken up into various scenario options with variables on
ways to lead into the desired behavior.
Example:
As part of my program I often teach the left hook sets up
the double leg with the penetration step to the left side of the body. Now, upon
breaking down the individual technique of left hook, change levels, step
through and turn the corner I will begin the drilling process. This often looks like:
- Jab, Cross, Hook Go.
- Then, Hook Cross Hook Go.
- Then adding defense I may add in the context of pad work jab, slip his cross, hook and shoot etc. breaking the technique into different lead ins to get there.
- The fighter should reinforce the pattern with a live partner loose and lightly adding the normal prefixes like exchanging jabs or kicks before hitting the new technique set. You can round robin this approach with different partners to get different feels with the end result being that by using platforms and building intensity slowly the fighter will gain newfound confidence and comfort using the sequence in real time. Also, a good segue into hitting the combination is to ascribe a codename for it that only he knows cueing him in sparring to hit the go button when as a coach you see opportunities arise while in the 3rd party perspective of the corner.
The resounding lesson here is that
sparring is not a fight, it is a tool that should be used to reinforce desired
behaviors, work functional cardio, gain experience, dissect shortfalls and
prepare you for success. Pissing
contests belong in barroom brawls, not in the sport of mma. Train smart, fight hard and succeed!
Saturday, February 2, 2013
Jose “El Fuego” Caro headed to Team Quest
Pueblo, Colorado February 1st 2013-Top amateur 185 lbs. prospect Jose Caro will head to Matt Lindland’s
Team Quest in preparation for his 2013 professional debut stated coach and
mentor Gabe Charboneau on Tuesday. “Matt has expressed an interest in Jose’s
talent and physicality feeling that he’d be a valuable asset to Yushin Okami
and some of the middleweight prospects from Russia scheduled to come out to Quest in March.”
stated Charboneau. “This is obviously a huge opportunity for him to work with
high caliber opponents and get away from the norm so I’m very happy for him.” While Caro maintains a keen eye on a pro
debut this year he states that his ultimate dream would be an accepted slot on
the tentative and widely rumored “Ultimate Fighter” Mexico.
As an amateur “El
Fuego” racked up an impressive resume battling all comers gaining the
additional moniker “Giant Killer” from his countrymen due to his twice
competing and dominating opponents over 6 foot 6. His tenacity earned him top honors and nominations
as the best middleweight amateur in Colorado and fight of the year for his
knock down drag out victory over “One- FC” veteran Kaleo Gambill of Hawaii. His most recent string of wins included a
quick stoppage over previously undefeated Pete Quezada on the Jacksons MMA
series followed by a title win via Fight Brigade championships in late
2012. Charboneau adds, “To say this kid
is talented doesn’t do him justice.” “He
comes to fight the best. His few losses
have only been to decision with one exception and that includes his debut
against current TUF fighter Gilbert Smith.
He is handsome, well spoken, volunteers as spokesman for Bully
Management and other community orgs and reaches that crossover Spanish speaking
audience that every major brand/ promotion wants these days.” Jose
Caro seeks to join the ranks of other Mexican greats like Cain Velasquez in the
coming years and experience gained at Team Quest will be a major step in the
right direction for a man known as “The Fire.”
For more information on Jose Caro email Gabe@nuworldmedia.com
Tori Adams added to CFA lineup
Pueblo, Colorado January 30th 2013- Top Colorado women’s
prospect Tori “All American” Adams will
be gunning for the CFA tournament 145 lbs. women’s title and 20,000 in purse money March 2nd
in Miami, Florida March 2nd according to local sources. Billed as a pseudo “Tuff-n-uff” Reunion
tournament the event will feature top competitors from the promotions past this
time as professionals. Adams, a former finalist
in contention for the shows crown had to vacate the opportunity in early 2010
when she found out weeks before her final bout with Tay Stratford that she was
pregnant. Since, Adams has been working
diligently back toward her goals dismantling tough Invitca FC competitor Raquel
Pennington followed by becoming the first female school head wrestling coach in
Colorado. The two former opponents will
likely square off again this time as part of the CFA lineup. Also on the bill are Ashlee Evans Smith and
others Adams beat as an amateur and rest assured each is training hard to
derail her return to mma, the inevitable Invitca contract and possible UFC pay-date
later down the line. Her coaches and mentor Donnie Liles and Gabe Charboneau
agree in their contention that staying and dominating the 145 lbs. division is
the best strategy for Adams at this point with the eventual move back down to
135 in the near future. Ladies beware..
All American Tori Adams is back.
Fore more information on Tori Adams
email gabe@nuworldmedia.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)