FEAR THE BEARD

Donnie Liles Above

Donnie Liles Pushes Forward Toward Big Show

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

Donnie Liles Victorious again at MFW

Colorado Springs, CO June 28^th 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:

Gabe Charboneau

gabe@nuworldmedia.com

Donnie Liles Says “Fear the Beard” Wins at No Mercy

March 22^nd 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:

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 2^nd in Miami, Florida March 2^nd 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

2013 Full of Firsts for Pueblo Wrestling as Tori Adams takes helm

Tori Adams

Pueblo, Co December 16th 2012-In a bold move by District 60 administration recently, Pueblo Heaton middle school has chosen world class wrestling competitor and undefeated female MMA fighter, Tori “All American” Adams to oversee its wrestling program in 2013.  Adams will continue forging her pioneering path in the sport as the first woman ever to wrestle in Texas, becomes the first female wrestling coach in Pueblo history.  A world ranked force in the field of women’s professional mixed martial arts, Adams began her career on the mat at the age of 8 where she would eventually go on to win four state titles.  She has represented the United States on both the national and world teams, was a standout competitor at the Olympic Training center and has been ranked as high as #2 in the United States.  Other awards include winning the coveted Sunkist Open Championships, the World Fila Grappling Championships, The World Pancrase Championship, the Colorado BJJ Absolute Championships and others prior to turning to her current sport of mixed martial arts. 

According to longtime friend, striking trainer and mentor Gabe Charboneau: “There’s very little Tori touches that doesn’t turn to gold, she is an encyclopedia of wrestling knowledge and both Heaton Principal Mario Romero and Athletics Director, Jayme Cardinal should be commended on their forward thinking mindset in her hire.” 

Tori Adams Flies High 

And while the school will seek to maintain it's already stellar record under Tori Adams’ tutelage, many feel that the move is symbolically so much more than it appears on the surface.  In fact, female students who were previously hesitant to participate in wrestling are now coming forward with an expressed desire to join the ranks of the Pueblo team.   When asked about her first priority in the new role Adam’s answered: “Get our J.V. kids new wrestling singlet’s, their current uniforms are horribly outdated and if we want these young athletes to perform their best they need to look and feel it as well.”  When asked about whether or not there were existing resources allocated to accomplish the task Adam’s states with a grin:  “Not sure yet but I am willing to bet that any person or business interested in helping support this program wouldn’t be turned away."  After a year that was supposed to signify an end of days according to Mayan prophecy, it is seemingly fitting to think that middle school wrestling in Pueblo may experience..  a rebirth.

Anyone wishing to aid in the supply of new singlets may contact:
(719) 369-1138 or gabe@nuworldmedia.com

Tori Adams The All American Girl

In the world of women's combat sports, few athletes play on the same field as Tori Adams.  The first woman in the state of Texas ever to wrestle she learned to grapple hand in hand with learning her abc's.  For Adams a career following her Olympic pursuits would be highlighted by dispatching standout favorite Tsui Jen Cunanen then getting to the finals of the Tuff-n-uff championships in Las Vegas where she would repeat the feat by subbing out Ashley Evans Smith in short order. Adams was scheduled to fight fellow elite grappling prospect Rhonda Rousey who decided to abandon her post at Tuff-N-uff to accept a pro offer.  Soon after Tori became pregnant and many wondered if the competitive setback would derail her career. Not one to be swayed and only 10 months later she was back in training and most recently defeated Invitca fighter Raquel Pennnington. The future is looking bright for The All American and the top awaits.  Following is a brief  overview of her career:

Tori Adams

135 lbs

1-0 pro 4-0 am.

Ranked as high as #2 in the nation for women's wrestling

The Mat.com Wrestler of the week 

Adams won a gold medal at 63 kg/138.75 lbs. and was named Outstanding Wrestler in the women's division at the Sunkist Kids/ASU International Open in Tempe, Ariz., October 29-30. The tournament was conducted under the new rules of international wrestling. In the gold-medal finals, Adams defeated 2004 U.S. Olympic Team Trials runner-up Alaina Berube(Escanaba, Mich./New York AC), in two straight periods, 2-1 and 3-1. Adams won four matches to claim the title, sweeping three matches in just two periods and winning the other bout by pin. She opened the tournament with a 1:10 pin of Brenna Larkin (Forest Grove, Ore./Pacific Univ) In the quarterfinals, she defeated 2004 Olympian Tela O'Donnell (Colorado Springs, Colo./Dave Schultz WC), 1-1 and 3-2. Her semifinal victory was over veteran Canadian wrestler Helen Hennick, 1-1 and 1-1. Adams was sixth in the 2004 U.S. Olympic Team Trials. She is a former Junior World medalist, and has been a member of Women's Team USA in the past. 

• 2-time University National Champion 
• World Fila Grappling champion
• Fight To Win multiple time absolute champion
• Ranked as high as #2 in the nation, 
• World Pancrase Absolute champion,
• Grapplers Quest Advanced women’s gold medal 

 www.TiffinMats.com

 

The Mad Dog Bites Back

Liles Eyes Big Stage Not looking past Craven

October 2nd 2012 Pueblo Colorado-War will be waged October 27th in Colorado Springs Colorado as the "Mad Dog" Donnie Liles takes on  veteran Bryant Craven at Evolution Combat Sports fight night produced in association Lashley Management.
(http://www.evolutioncombatsports.com/liles.html)  Liles, 14-6 175 lbs will seek retribution after a rare formally contested and controversial decision loss against Joey Villasenor on June 2nd at the Hard Rock Cafe in Albuquerque that aimed to derail Liles 5 fight win streak. Both Craven and Donnie Liles see the upcoming bout as a pivotal point in their careers that will largely assess the direction they move next.

Gabe Charboneau, Liles longtime mentor and striking trainer maintains that the marquee value is still there provided the right opportunity. "Donnie has everything it takes to remain a valuable asset to any organization who picks him up whether Bellator, UFC,  or any number of the other up and coming savvy promotions." He is marketable, skilled and never loses sight of the discipline and work ethic it takes to compete at that level whether it be in training here with us at Ultimate Performance/Pacific Warrior or cross training with Drew Lawrence and our friends at ATT/Pariah in Colorado Springs. I don't have to push him, he's a professional who knows what needs to be done and just does it".  This relentless pursuit of perfection is evidenced further by Liles continued string of victories over reputable up and comers, veterans and undefeated prospects who have recently made it on the latest season of TUF. One thing is for sure, Donnie Liles is here to stay.

The October 27th Evolution card will feature a slew of other talent including Donnie Liles UP/PWIA stablemate pro Bruce "The Moose" Reis who makes his return to the cage after almost a year of inactivity. Reis will have his hands full when he squares off with Jose Louis Murillo who enters the cage with almost 25 fights to his credit  Southern Colorado fight fans get ready there's a steam train a-comin.

A War of Lions-Strikeforce veterans Liles and Villasenor face off in Jacksons Series Main Event

A War of Lions
Strikeforce veterans Liles and Villasenor face off in Jacksons Series Main Event

By Colorado Fight League publicity department
Colorado Springs, CO April 12th 2012- Mixed Martial Arts purists clamored around the confirmation of a recently announced main event featuring Strikeforce veterans Joey Villasenor (28-10 Jacksons MMA) and Donnie “Mad Dog” Liles (13-5 PWIA/RoughHouse) to be held at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino as part of the highly touted “Jacksons MMA Series” June 2nd in Albuquerque New Mexico.

Both fighters have fought on a who’s who of quality organizations over their career including Pride, Elite XC, The IFL and of course Strike-Force respectively. Only the elusive UFC break has eluded them both to date. Liles, never one to mince words however feels that a win over Joey may reinvigorate the big show to take a closer look in light of the fact that he remains on a 5 fight win streak over both seasoned veterans and up and comers alike. “I feel like my time has come again. I feel like I have the right camp, the right focus and am in the right place to make another solid run at this thing.” said Liles on Saturday. Before the two promotional powerhouses meet however, Liles will have to make it through undefeated prospect Jason Clayton first. Clayton 4-0 as a pro would like nothing better than to derail the Mad Dog’s train to glory. The two are scheduled to meet April 28th on Bobby Lashley’s first mma promotion event in Colorado Springs as part of his American Top Team events franchise. Liles' stand up coach Gabe Charboneau states," Im excited to see Donnie have this opportunity again. He exemplifies all of the tenets that a champion strives for. Donnie has been working diligently with a new program to combat bullying in schools called bully management and it's that kind of community committment, coupled with his hardwork and talent that will get him back on top."
For more information or to sponsor Donnie Liles
Contact publicity at
(719) 369-1138
gabe@nuworldmedia.com

Exclusive! Seasons Beatings Bell and Lowe Set Sights on December ROF

Seasons Beatings

Bell and Lowe set sights on December ROF

By Liz Solano CFL Publicity department

November 22, 2011 Pueblo, CO- Tis’ the season, the familiar smells of cider, pumpkin and spices fill the air. Thoughts of family, food and the impending sound of both ringing registers and jingle bells heralding the arrival of December. And while Santa’s proverbial elves are hard at work preparing for their 4th quarter overtime rush so too are Mixed Martial Artists Donnie Bell and Jered Lowe who will make their respective debuts at Ring of Fire December 17th in Denver. The PWIA/Roughhouse veterans, both since displaced to other cities around the U.S are ready to return and hammer home their indelible mark on this Happy Holiday season.

Captain America
Jered Lowe Returns Home

For US Marine Corporal Jered Lowe serving up an ass whooping comes as natural as serving his country. The 21 year old from Southern Colorado has garnered an unblemished amateur record of 5-0 fighting both at home and abroad. A proud member of the US Marine Corp Fight team Jered was featured in Marine Magazine and recently returned from competition in Beijing China where he bested local favorite Wang Peng in under a minute. And while barely of legal age to drink, Lowe fights with an unmatched resolve and wisdom well beyond his 21 years. However, at Ring of Fire December 17th he will need every tool in his soldier arsenal to take on Grudges highly touted Cody Mumma for the Young Guns 205 lb. strap.

CFL: Jered, tell us about some of your accomplishments it’s been a hectic 2 years for you.

JL: (“laughing”) Yeah well, where do I start? I recently got married to my wife Emmie who is home in Pueblo. I am originally from Lamar Colorado and have been fighting since I joined the Marines. I just got back from fighting overseas in China which was a huge honor for me as an amateur. I am the current 205 lb. CFL champ, and am now 5-0.

CFL: Wow sounds like you have been busy, who are you training with?

JL: It’s a combination, when I am here in San Diego I train with the Marines at The Compound and Bellator vet Sean Loeffler he's been great and guides me a lot out here. When I’m home, I train with the coaches and guys from PWIA and Roughhouse they have been with me since day one.

CFL: Any thoughts of going pro?
JL: Coach Gabe and my coaches here have talked to me about it. I’ll probably go pro sometime next year but I’m not in a huge hurry I want to be battle ready when that day comes.

CFL: So, Ring of Fire one of the biggest cards around are you excited? What do you know about your opponent?

JL: Just that he’s a strong wrestler big and hulked up. And yeah, I’m always excited when I get to fight at home and especially on a big card like ROF. As for game plan, I just work hard and prepare myself for whatever comes and let my coach’s map out the strategy they think would be best. Hopefully, if I show well and win this title the promotion will continue to give me opportunities because it’s the show guys like Duane Ludwig, Nate Mardquart and a lot of those guys got their start on.

CFL: Well, looks like you know exactly which direction you want to go any shout outs or last words?

JL: Of course! My Sponsors: Columbine Chateau, Inkd Out and Wicked Rigs. Conquest MMA, “Take a Nap” clothing and PWIA/Roughhouse. “Big” Sean Loeffler and the crew. My friends, family and wife Emmie. And most of all God and my brothers serving in the US Military.
Thanks for having me!

Hitman for Hire
The “Other” Donnie Bell has a hitlist

In the blockbuster movie The Bourne Identity, our hero played by Matt Damon is an ex-CIA agent who due to a failed asassination attempt develops amnesia. And while possibly not as dramatic a situation, a similar twist of mistaken identity hits close to home for ROF competitor Donnie “The Bomber” Bell. “There is another Donnie Bell who fights out of Colorado.” states the fighter, his soft spoken Texas drawl ever apparent. “That Donnie who fights at heavyweight is older, I fight at 155 and he is not a pro so we always have to be clear when talking to promoters.” Similar in name only, “This “Hitman” Donnie Bell is 155 lbs of solid muscle with a strong wrestling pedigree and extensive early mixed martial arts resume. He will face the daunting task of taking on unbeaten wrestling prodigy and Grudge product Justin Gaethje at Ring of Fire Young Guns Dec 17th. We caught up to Donnie recently who despite making his home in Grand Prairie Texas, has ties to the PWIA Roughhouse fight camp in Colorado often employing their support for cornering strategy or for pre-bout preparation. Here’s what Donnie had to say:

CFL: Does it bother you when people mix you up with the other Donnie?

DB: Not really it is just a detail that we try to warn promoters about beforehand it takes an extra step in the process of negotiating a fight. Especially if their wondering how I can cut to 55 from heavyweight.

CFL: You have been on a tear as of late Donnie tell us about your training regimen:

DB: Well I don’t like excuses and never want to think that others may be training harder than me. I try to stay in the gym and the staff at Metro Flex sports science in Arlington always pushes me to the next level. I’m blessed to have a great training gym in The Fury MMA with good coaches and partners, and I am bringing in the folks from Roughhouse up in Colorado again for this camp. I haven’t had the chance to work with Gabe and Donnie since we fought and won on the Jacksons series and they can benefit me a lot for this fight.

CFL: Tell us about how you see this fight going?

DB: I know he’s a real good wrestler and that’s obviously something he’s going to rely on, but I always believe that people change and adapt especially a gym like Grudge so I am preparing for wherever he would like to take it. I do me, have a lot of faith in myself my training and god and that gives me the strength I need to push the limits every time I train.

CFL: So this being Ring of Fire is a big step for you Donnie what’s next?

DB: I take it fight by fight and remain humble so I don’t get caught up looking past the guy in front of me..

CFL: Thanks for taking the time who would you like to thank?

DB: My friends and family who support me, my mom Sharon, Metro-Flex, F.W. and Team the Fury. All of my training partners, coaches and management, Will Florentino, Gabe, Donnie Liles and Colorado Fam, Ring of Fire and God without whom nothing is possible.

“Jurass-kick Park” The CFL's Jeff Raptor Santos brings mayhem to 125 lbs

The CFL’s Jeff “Raptor” Santos brings mayhem to 125 lbs

by Gabe Charboneau on Tuesday, September 27, 2011 at 8:54pm

“Jurass-kick Park”
The CFL’s Jeff “Raptor” Santos brings mayhem to 125 lbs
By Colorado Fight League Publicity department
Up until a few years ago scientists were all but positive that dinosaurs were relegated to being small minded lumbering lizards, then in the early 90’s things began to change.  While a highly controversial theory, most now agree that dinosaurs, particularly the nasty fleet footed raptor variety were extremely cunning, fast, explosive and when in packs one of the deadliest forces of the dinosaur age. Enter Jeff “Raptor” Santos who at age 28 is fast following in the footsteps of his dangerous namesake.


Born in New York City to Puerto Rican parents Jeff’s family relocated him to Arizona at age 13 in search of a slower paced way of life. Always the “little guy” of the bunch, Jeff constantly found himself tested and picked on by those in school and at home by his older brother whom had a wrestling background. Says Santos when recalling his youth, “My brother would always get his friends and those around us to try and out wrestle or fight with me, to see who could make his scrawny brother “give up.” “The funny thing was, very few could until while at a friend’s party a fighter named Joe “The Show” Cronnin came along and gave me a beating.
This chance meeting while a humbling experience for Santos proved a turning point as “The Show” thought enough of Santo’s skill to invite him to train with Drew Fickett and Santino Defranco of TUF at their Arizona fight gym. Jeff’s first two pro fights were to invariably tough opponents including one who had been fighting in K1 for a time. As skill would have it however, The Raptor attack was on and he was victorious moving toward a 2-0 pro record within his first year of competition.

The Future
Constantly seeking self improvement, Jeff Santos has followed his training partner turned stable mate Pride Robinson to Colorado to train with longtime MMA Team PWIA and decorated grappling academy Roughhouse in Colorado Springs.  “Everyone here has treated us like family,” states Jeff. “They put us in the fighter house and we pretty much went right to work doing 3 a days with the pro fighters here and doing individual sessions with Keith, Gabe and Donnie Liles I like the way the future is looking.”  Colorado, which has always had a void in the way of 125 lb. fighters has grown by one more. Jeff Santos stands alongside Mikey Baldwin, Randall Shuckman, Josh Kissel, and Aaron Trujillo in saying make way for the little guys, we are here to stay.
-editor