Mike Brown
MMA Florida Fighter was able to catch up to former WEC feather weight Champ Mike Brown on our last trip to the American Top Team headquarters located in Coconut Creek Florida.
We talked to the champ about his thoughts on the sport of Mixed Martial Arts and how it has evolved into what we have today. Mike also shared his feelings on what he thinks it takes to win in todays fiercely competitive Martial Arts world. Mike also gave us a peek into his Mixed Martial Arts future.
When the MMA Forida Fighter caught up to the Champ he had just completed a long intense workout and was on his way out the door heading home, sitting down to chat with an ancient warrior was probably the last thing the man had on his agenda. But Mr. Brown graciously consented, proving that Mike Thomas Brown is not only a World Class Champion, he's also a World Class Person !
Thank you Mike.
And as always, thanks to GM Richie Guerriero and the fighters and trainers at American Top Team.
Marcos "Parrumpinha" da Matta
This week MMA Florida Fighter sat down with American Top Team trainer and competitor, Marcos "Parrumpinha" da Matta. Marcos is one of the top Jiu Jitsu instructors in the American Top Team organization.
Marcos Trains primarily at his facility at 1611 n. military trail in West Palm Beach Marcos da Matta. When Marcos is not traveling to Mixed Martial Arts venues around the world to work the corner or offer support to his fighters, Marcos trains !
A fierce competitor in his own right, sporting an impressive 7-1 record, Marcos has gained fighter respect inside as well as outside of the ring.
The MMA Florida Fighter has spent a life time around fighters of all kinds. And when you find as many truly talented fighters singing the praises of any one fighter/trainer it meens only one thing, Marcos da Matta "You the Man"!
And once again thanks to GM Richie Guerriero.
Jessica "JAG" Aguilar -
The MMA Florida Fighter had the distinct pleasure of interviewing one of the most impressive women's fighters in the world' Ms. Jessica Aguilar. We met at the main training center for American Top Teamlocated in Coconut Creek Florida. There we were able to sit down with Ms. Aguilar and get to know the person.
Having endured some of life's bitter lessons at an early age the seed of internal strength self reliance and warrior spirit was planted, and what grew was a no holds barred approach to life and any obstacles that stood in her way. It's hard to believe that someone with this level of intensity could also have a calm gentle spirit which becomes immediately apparent as soon as Jessica smiles.
Ms. Aguilar may have a gentle spirit but she is a serious athlete and can transform into an incredibly focused and undisputedly ferocious fighter in the beat of a heart. Jessica is a multi talented woman with many interests having been an actress as well as studying biology in college. Ms. Aguilar isn't studying biology at this time but she is still dissecting, only this time it is her opponents in the ring, and like the frog sooner or later they end up getting nailed down.
MMA Florida Fighter believes Ms. Aguilar is poised to be an undisputed world champion and the Mixed Martial Arts world could not have a better ambassador. You can follow Ms. Aguilar on her web site Jessica Aguilar and again MMA Florida Fighter wants to thank GM Richie Guerriero and all the fighters and trainers at American Top Team for making us feel welcomed.
Howard Davis Jr. and Jeff Gibson -
when legends collide
What do you get when atomic nuclei join ? A thermo nuclear explosion ! And that is exactly what is about to happen to the Mixed Martial Arts world in Florida.
International karate and kickboxing hall of famer Jeff Gibson and boxing legend and Olympic gold medalist Howard Davis Jr. have joined forces to promote Mixed Martial Arts in Florida.
MMA Florida Fighter was privileged to be one of the first interviews given by Mr. Davis and Mr. Gibson, and once again was extended the gracious hospitality of American Top Teamin Coconut Creek Florida.
The MMA Florida Fighter is going to keep it short and sweet so here in their own words are Jeff Gibson and Howard Davis Jr.
"Conan" Silveira
MMA Florida Fighter had the rare treat of interviewing a true legend and pioneer in the sport of Mixed Martial Arts, American Top Team's "Conan" Silveira.
With our friends from MMA Florida Fighter Productions, we headed out to Coconut Creek Florida to theAmerican Top Teamtraining facility
where we sat down with "Conan" Silveira and discussed the MMA world then and now.
The first thing that impressed me was how knowledgeable this man is , once again debunking a dwindling conception that cage fighters are somehow not the sharpest athletes. Truth is, the greatest number of MMA Florida Fighters we have interviewed have been very bright! You can't be an MMA Champion if you are not smart.
It's chess by knockout or submission, you need to know what you are doing and be able to think ahead.
The second thing I noticed was how well conditioned and "LARGE" this man is. All I can think is "thank heaven the
Good Lord saw fit to to make our unprovoked giants gentle". And I say unprovoked because if you have ever seen Mr. Silveira fight you know he can definitely be provoked, which conjures up one of those life lessons passed on by our dads "You Don't Pull The Tigers Tail"!
Talking to Mr. Silveira was like talking to a Mixed Martial Arts encyclopedia, tracing the sport from it's roots to present time. It was a great experience and one we know you will enjoy.
A big thanks to GM Richie Guerriero for all his help.
"JZ" Cavalcante
MMA Florida Fighter was back in Coconut Creek Florida recently along with MMA Florida Fighter productions to interview "JZ" Cavalcante, anotherAmerican Top Teamprotege and one of the top MMA Fighters on the planet.
"JZ" is a total fighter with excellent skills in every aspect of the sport. My late Sensei used to say "fighting is like a pie with each piece being a set of skills and if a piece of the pie is missing you don't have a whole pie!" A little Yogi Berra-ism, but the point is - you have to have it all. Believe me, Mr. Cavalcante Does have it all: with an aggresive fight style, "JZ" will bring the fight to you. There will be no resting. With power in both hands and a superb groud game, opponents can expect be busy the whole night!
During our visit, we were able to watch "JZ" train for quite a while. He has an excellent work ethic and with sparring partners like world class champion Mike Brown and a bevy of other excellent Top Team fighters and trainers at the facility, it is easy to see how "JZ" stays in top form.
Recently signed to fight for Strike Force in the near future, Mr. Cavalcante's star is definitely rising. Considering his relentless training regimen, an incredible support team, good looks, and a jaw like an anvil, MMA Florida Fighter thinks this guy is on his way to the top.
MMA Florida Fighter wants to again thank American Top Team and GM Richie Guerrieo for the help and hospitality.
Caroline Portugal
MMA Florida Fighter and MMA Florida Fighter Productions
where recently invited to World Class Martial Arts
to interview one of Florida women's MMA fighters Caroline "RareNinja" Portugal.
While there we had the opprtunity to spend a little time with owner and trainer Ralph Garcia. A well schooled and commited Martial Artist himself, it's no seceret why Mr. Garcias fighters excell. Like all smart trainers and fighters Mr. Garcia cross trains, but when Mr. Garcia cross trains it's with some of the top camps and fighters in the state.
Mr. Garcia and I had a few minutes to chat as we awaited the grand arrival of Ms. Caroline "RareNinja" Portugal and we where not to be dissapointed. In walks this petite little package of C-4 wearing her own hand painted jeans and a smile that could light up Manhatten. This woman has more energy than a nuclear power plant.
A woman of many talents and interests she is truly an MMA treasure. Check out Ms. Carolines' web site RareNinja and see if you don't agree that this is one amazing woman.
Ricardo Liborio - American Top Team
MMA Florida Fighter and our friends from MMA Florida Fighter productions, recently took a road trip to American Top Team located in Coconut Creek Florida. We made the trip to talk with co-owner and Head Instructor Ricardo Liborio.
Unless you have been in the most remote places on earth or perhaps under a rock, you have heard of American Top Team.More readily recognized as the producer of some of the finest fighters and Champions in the world. The Coconut Creek facility is an amazing cornucopia of Mixed Martial Arts training equipment and paraphernalia, if you need it to train with it's there.
Mr. Libirio is a very approachable and easy to like gentleman just proving the old adage "the bigger they are, the nicer they are" Mr. Liborio is quick to credit his envied staff of trainers, most like Mr. Liborio are Champions in their own right with the overwhelming success of American Top Team.
The Coconut Creek American Top Team is a well oiled and highly functional machine due in part to the expert directon of General Manager Richie Guerriero. Mr. Guerriero keeps everything running like a fine tuned watch,coordinating fighters and schedules has got to be a challenging experience.
Every fighter in the house was a legitimate athlete, not a poser in the place. If you are a Mixed Martial Artist, welcome to Heaven.
Alex Cruz
MMA Florida Fighter and MMA Florida Fighter Productions recently traveled to St. Petersburg to visit
Alex Cruz a very impressive Mixed Martial Arts newcomer who trains at theElite Training Center.
The Elite Trainiing Center is operated by Director and Chief Instructor Phil Beatty, who is a top notch Martial Artist with the vision to incorporate "Old School" Martial Arts, when we fought bare knuckles on concrete floors in a 12x12 taped ring, with the disciplines of Muay Thai and Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Mr. Beatty like all great trainers has surrounded himself with outstanding talent. His Muay Thai instructor Roger Patrizzi with over 20 years experience has an impressive Muay Thai as well as Vale Tudo competition record.
Eduardo de Lima is the man on the ground, a Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu Jitsu tournament champion whose ability to transition from the sport to the more combat oriented techniques of a Mixed Martial Arts cage fight allows the Elite trained fighters to get reality based training.
Alex Cruz has taken advantage of this available talent and made it his own. Alex has great hands, good speed and plenty of penetrating impact power. Alex has punishing kicks and a strong well schooled understanding of the sport. Keep your eye on Alex Cruz, we are going to be hearing from him.
Crafton Wallace
MMA Florida Fighter and MMA Florida Fighter Productions Took a drive south to Naples to talk to Crafton Wallace. Arguably the most successful and well known Mixed Martial Artist in south Florida.
Training out of Jabz fitness center in Naples Florida, Wallace and Inferno MMA have an excellent training area located inside Jabz. And unlike many fight clubs located in fitness centers Inferno is not stuck in a small room with workouts scheduled between yoga classes. Inferno has its own designated large workout area with plenty of grappling room, Thai heavy bags, striking pads and a cage, and even the dreaded "Tire".
Jabz fitness center has in its own right an incredible array of top of the line fitness and weight training equipment. It is a well layed out facility with a friendly staff and ample parking.
A true competitor Crafton Wallace has competed in about every full contact Martial Arts format there is and excelled in all of them. a real crowd pleaser Mr. Wallace's fights are always exciting and filled with non stop action. Known for his dominating fighting skills as well as his training regimen Mr. Wallace is sought out by other Mixed Martial Arts fighters, some who have traveled great distances to cross train with this well respected fighter and trainer.
I have personally participated in a Crafton Wallace workout and all I can say is , if you want to get in fighting shape then this is the place for you. Just don't come limping !
Joe Ray
MMA Florida Fighter took a trip across the state to visit the Freestyle Fighting Academy located in South Miami. We are on our way to interview Joe Ray, an impressive up and coming MMA fighter.
We arrived at Freestyle Fighting Academy Wednesday afternoon; the gym was full of fighters going through their individual routines. Owner and trainer, Marcos Avellan was in the ring going through an intense Muay Thai workout.
Owned by the Avellan brothers, David and Marcos, Freestyle Fighting Academy is a well equipped gym with a large ring, a cage, a weight room and a large grappling area. Open 24 hours a day, finding time to work out is never a problem at Freestyle Fighting Academy.
Watching Joe workout you can't help but be impressed with Joe's strength and speed. Joe spent a year in Thailand and is planning on going back to train there again this year. If Joe continues to improve at his present pace, MMA Florida Fighter is sure we are looking at a future champion!
Danny Babcock
MMA Florida Fighter took a ride to Port St. Lucie this week to visit Team Animal and to sit down and talk to Team Animal coach and owner Marco Slayne and RFC and ISKA middle weight champion Danny "Bad Boy" Babcock.
When we arrived Coach Marco Slayne, assisted by champion Danny Babcock, was just finishing up a young fighter's class. It was quite impressive watching these two highly talented Men passing on years of knowledge and experience to the next generation of MMA fighters
Not a typical gym in the traditional sense, Team Animal tracks it's own course, but discipline and respect are deeply ingrained in all the fighters in the gym and the environment for learning is excellent.
Middle weight champion Danny Babcock is a poised and confident man of few words. Danny prefers to do his talking in the ring. With a work ethic second to none MMA Florida Fighter believes that we will be hearing from Danny "Bad Boy" Babcock and Team Animal a lot in the coming years.
Marcio Cruz
MMA Florida Fighter and MMA Florida Fighter Productions, recently traveled to Largo, Florida to interview Marcio Cruz. The interview was graciously arranged by Daniel Vieira, manager of David Vieira Brazilian Ju-Jitsu school in Largo.
The David Vieira Brazilian Ju-Jitsu school is a well thought out facility with plenty of mat space, an excellent striking area, a weight room, and an on-site cage.
The feel of old school respect and tradition permeates the air as you enter the school - you want to Gi up and start rolling immediately. MMA Florida Fighter was greeted at the door by Daniel Vieira and Marcio Cruz and was immediately made to feel welcome.
When I sat down with Marcio, I was instantaneously taken with the gentle, respectful demeanor of this awesome competitor, who by the way, is opening his own school in Tampa, FL.
I gave a lot of thought on how to describe these two gentlemen and our experience at the David Vieira Brazilian Ju-Jitsu School. "First Class" is the first thing that came to my mind. If Daniel Vieira and Marcio Cruz are examples of Brazilian hospitality, MMA Florida Fighter is taking his wife to Brazil next vacation.
Ron Jacobs
MMA Florida Fighter paid a visit to the Tampa Fight factory to interview two of Highlander fight team coach Mike Yanezs' fighters. The Highlander fight team trains at the Tampa Fight Factory, an incredible facility with a large ring, ample weight and cardio equipment as well as numerous heavy bags and grappling mats.
The Tampa Fight Factory is owned and operated by boxing legend Peter Fernandez who graciously welcomed us in to his gym to conduct our interviews. MMA Florida Fighter would like to come back and interview Mr. Fernandez, as he is truly one of boxings leading authorities.
We sat down with Mike Yanez of the Highlander fight team to interview one of Highlanders newest inductees into the pro ranks of MMA Fighting, Ron "no chance" Jacobs.
Ron is a quiet man and has only been training with Mr. Yanez and the Highlander fight team for one year. Ron has Good speed and is learning his craft well. Ron is a hard worker and under the expert tutaledge of Mike Yanez. we predict a very successful career for Mr. Jacobs.
Rob Turner
MMA Florida Fighter paid a visit to the Tampa Fight factory to interview two of Highlander fight team coach Mike Yanezs' fighters. The Highlander fight team trains at the Tampa Fight Factory, an incredible facility with a large ring, ample weight and cardio equipment as well as numerous heavy bags and grappling mats.
The Tampa Fight Factory is owned and operated by boxing legend Peter Fernandez who graciously welcomed us in to his gym to conduct our interviews. MMA Florida Fighter would like to come back and interview Mr. Fernandez, as he is truly one of boxings leading authorities.
Our first interview was with Rob "CT" Turner, an incredibly likable guy with an infectious smile, a lightning fast jab and a goodnight right! Trained in ground fighting by Mike Yanez, who by the way, has a very impressive competition resume of his own.
Rob and Mike have been training together for years, originally from Kentucky, they have moved to Florida and soon, I predict will be a force to reckon with as they carve out a clearly defined place for themselves in the family of top MMA Florida Fighters.
Travis Cox
MMA Florida Fighter recently made a visit to the Fight Me MMA facility located at Tag's Gym 14561 Palm Beach Blvd in East Fort Myers, FL. We went there to visit Travis Cox, winner of a second round TKO victory over Carlos Gonzalez at Art of Fighting 6 held in Fort Myers FL on November 22, 2009. We also went to speak to Mike Nowling, owner and boxing coach at Lee County Combat sports.
Mr. Nowling is a very knowledgeable and talented fighter in his own right. He has trained many successful fighters in the Fort Myers area. Mr. Nowling is considered by many to be one of the state's top boxing trainers.
As we entered the gym, it was like stepping back in time. It conjured up images of old school smash mouth fighters, like Roberto Duran, Joe Frazier, Rocky Marciano and yes, Rocky Balboa!
After meeting Travis Cox, we were not to be disappointed. You could tell immediately that Travis Cox was that rare competitor that will always step up to the challenge. A true Gladiator, Travis exemplifies the heart and spirit that it takes to be a Mixed Martial Arts Fighter.
The next time MMA Florida Fighter pays a visit to Lee County Combat Sports, we are going to take our gear. You just can't help wanting to strap on the leather the minute you walk in the door, good atmosphere, good fighter's, great fight club!
Jake Graddy
Recently, MMA Florida Fighter, accompanied by MMA Florida Fighter Productions, paid a visit to the Torro Training Center, located at 17689 Summerlin Road in Fort Myers, Fl. As soon as you walk in the door you are struck with the reality of being in a "fighters" gym; the look, the sounds, the fighters, and that smell, that unforgettable smell of leather, mats and sweat! To a couple of old warriors it was pure nirvana!
We were also noticeably taken by the high level of respect shown to us by all the athletes in the gym, a direct reflection of owner and trainer, Dan Torro. When we arrived class was still in progress, a full house, both men and women were working out together under the close scrutiny of the "Torro training center" ground coach, while Mr. Torro was conducting strike drills in the ring. Oh, the memories!
After class, we sat down with Jakob "Jake" Graddy to discuss his impressive victory, (a three round unanimous decision) over Tim Barrett in "Art of Fighting 6" held Nov. 22, 2009 in Fort Myers, Fl.
Sit down with me and listen, as Jake tells you in his own words his first time experience as an MMA pro fighter. Don't let Jake's pleasant demeanor fool you, he's a rascal. After all, he's a Mixed Martial arts fighter, the toughest sport on the planet!
Michael Byrnes
MMA Florida Fighter took a ride to Port St. Lucie this week to visit Team Animal and to sit down and talk to Team Animal coach and owner Marco Slayne, and Michael "The Kid" Byrnes who just won his first pro MMA bout at the "Strike Force" event held in Miami Jan. 30, 2010.
Michael is just one of the fighters being trained at Team Animal. Mike is a well rounded fighter with excellent striking skills and a well rounded ground game.
With good looks and exceptional talent we believe Mike is going to carve out his own niche in the Mixed Martial Arts world. Keep your eyes on Michael "The Kid" Byrnes we believe he and Team Animal are going to be heard from on a regular basis.
more interviews
Mike Brown | |
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MMA Florida Fighter was able to catch up to former WEC feather weight Champ Mike Brown on our last trip to the American Top Team headquarters located in Coconut Creek Florida. We talked to the champ about his thoughts on the sport of Mixed Martial Arts and how it has evolved into what we have today. Mike also shared his feelings on what he thinks it takes to win in todays fiercely competitive Martial Arts world. Mike also gave us a peek into his Mixed Martial Arts future. When the MMA Forida Fighter caught up to the Champ he had just completed a long intense workout and was on his way out the door heading home, sitting down to chat with an ancient warrior was probably the last thing the man had on his agenda. But Mr. Brown graciously consented, proving that Mike Thomas Brown is not only a World Class Champion, he's also a World Class Person ! Thank you Mike. And as always, thanks to GM Richie Guerriero and the fighters and trainers at American Top Team. |
Marcos "Parrumpinha" da Matta | |
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This week MMA Florida Fighter sat down with American Top Team trainer and competitor, Marcos "Parrumpinha" da Matta. Marcos is one of the top Jiu Jitsu instructors in the American Top Team organization. Marcos Trains primarily at his facility at 1611 n. military trail in West Palm Beach Marcos da Matta. When Marcos is not traveling to Mixed Martial Arts venues around the world to work the corner or offer support to his fighters, Marcos trains ! A fierce competitor in his own right, sporting an impressive 7-1 record, Marcos has gained fighter respect inside as well as outside of the ring. The MMA Florida Fighter has spent a life time around fighters of all kinds. And when you find as many truly talented fighters singing the praises of any one fighter/trainer it meens only one thing, Marcos da Matta "You the Man"! And once again thanks to GM Richie Guerriero. |
Jessica "JAG" Aguilar - | |
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The MMA Florida Fighter had the distinct pleasure of interviewing one of the most impressive women's fighters in the world' Ms. Jessica Aguilar. We met at the main training center for American Top Teamlocated in Coconut Creek Florida. There we were able to sit down with Ms. Aguilar and get to know the person. Having endured some of life's bitter lessons at an early age the seed of internal strength self reliance and warrior spirit was planted, and what grew was a no holds barred approach to life and any obstacles that stood in her way. It's hard to believe that someone with this level of intensity could also have a calm gentle spirit which becomes immediately apparent as soon as Jessica smiles. Ms. Aguilar may have a gentle spirit but she is a serious athlete and can transform into an incredibly focused and undisputedly ferocious fighter in the beat of a heart. Jessica is a multi talented woman with many interests having been an actress as well as studying biology in college. Ms. Aguilar isn't studying biology at this time but she is still dissecting, only this time it is her opponents in the ring, and like the frog sooner or later they end up getting nailed down. MMA Florida Fighter believes Ms. Aguilar is poised to be an undisputed world champion and the Mixed Martial Arts world could not have a better ambassador. You can follow Ms. Aguilar on her web site Jessica Aguilar and again MMA Florida Fighter wants to thank GM Richie Guerriero and all the fighters and trainers at American Top Team for making us feel welcomed. |
Howard Davis Jr. and Jeff Gibson - when legends collide |
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What do you get when atomic nuclei join ? A thermo nuclear explosion ! And that is exactly what is about to happen to the Mixed Martial Arts world in Florida. International karate and kickboxing hall of famer Jeff Gibson and boxing legend and Olympic gold medalist Howard Davis Jr. have joined forces to promote Mixed Martial Arts in Florida. MMA Florida Fighter was privileged to be one of the first interviews given by Mr. Davis and Mr. Gibson, and once again was extended the gracious hospitality of American Top Teamin Coconut Creek Florida. The MMA Florida Fighter is going to keep it short and sweet so here in their own words are Jeff Gibson and Howard Davis Jr. |
"Conan" Silveira |
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MMA Florida Fighter had the rare treat of interviewing a true legend and pioneer in the sport of Mixed Martial Arts, American Top Team's "Conan" Silveira. With our friends from MMA Florida Fighter Productions, we headed out to Coconut Creek Florida to theAmerican Top Teamtraining facility where we sat down with "Conan" Silveira and discussed the MMA world then and now. The first thing that impressed me was how knowledgeable this man is , once again debunking a dwindling conception that cage fighters are somehow not the sharpest athletes. Truth is, the greatest number of MMA Florida Fighters we have interviewed have been very bright! You can't be an MMA Champion if you are not smart. It's chess by knockout or submission, you need to know what you are doing and be able to think ahead. The second thing I noticed was how well conditioned and "LARGE" this man is. All I can think is "thank heaven the Good Lord saw fit to to make our unprovoked giants gentle". And I say unprovoked because if you have ever seen Mr. Silveira fight you know he can definitely be provoked, which conjures up one of those life lessons passed on by our dads "You Don't Pull The Tigers Tail"! Talking to Mr. Silveira was like talking to a Mixed Martial Arts encyclopedia, tracing the sport from it's roots to present time. It was a great experience and one we know you will enjoy. A big thanks to GM Richie Guerriero for all his help. |
"JZ" Cavalcante |
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MMA Florida Fighter was back in Coconut Creek Florida recently along with MMA Florida Fighter productions to interview "JZ" Cavalcante, anotherAmerican Top Teamprotege and one of the top MMA Fighters on the planet. "JZ" is a total fighter with excellent skills in every aspect of the sport. My late Sensei used to say "fighting is like a pie with each piece being a set of skills and if a piece of the pie is missing you don't have a whole pie!" A little Yogi Berra-ism, but the point is - you have to have it all. Believe me, Mr. Cavalcante Does have it all: with an aggresive fight style, "JZ" will bring the fight to you. There will be no resting. With power in both hands and a superb groud game, opponents can expect be busy the whole night! During our visit, we were able to watch "JZ" train for quite a while. He has an excellent work ethic and with sparring partners like world class champion Mike Brown and a bevy of other excellent Top Team fighters and trainers at the facility, it is easy to see how "JZ" stays in top form. Recently signed to fight for Strike Force in the near future, Mr. Cavalcante's star is definitely rising. Considering his relentless training regimen, an incredible support team, good looks, and a jaw like an anvil, MMA Florida Fighter thinks this guy is on his way to the top. MMA Florida Fighter wants to again thank American Top Team and GM Richie Guerrieo for the help and hospitality. |
Caroline Portugal |
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MMA Florida Fighter and MMA Florida Fighter Productions where recently invited to World Class Martial Arts to interview one of Florida women's MMA fighters Caroline "RareNinja" Portugal. While there we had the opprtunity to spend a little time with owner and trainer Ralph Garcia. A well schooled and commited Martial Artist himself, it's no seceret why Mr. Garcias fighters excell. Like all smart trainers and fighters Mr. Garcia cross trains, but when Mr. Garcia cross trains it's with some of the top camps and fighters in the state. Mr. Garcia and I had a few minutes to chat as we awaited the grand arrival of Ms. Caroline "RareNinja" Portugal and we where not to be dissapointed. In walks this petite little package of C-4 wearing her own hand painted jeans and a smile that could light up Manhatten. This woman has more energy than a nuclear power plant. A woman of many talents and interests she is truly an MMA treasure. Check out Ms. Carolines' web site RareNinja and see if you don't agree that this is one amazing woman. |
Ricardo Liborio - American Top Team |
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MMA Florida Fighter and our friends from MMA Florida Fighter productions, recently took a road trip to American Top Team located in Coconut Creek Florida. We made the trip to talk with co-owner and Head Instructor Ricardo Liborio. Unless you have been in the most remote places on earth or perhaps under a rock, you have heard of American Top Team.More readily recognized as the producer of some of the finest fighters and Champions in the world. The Coconut Creek facility is an amazing cornucopia of Mixed Martial Arts training equipment and paraphernalia, if you need it to train with it's there. Mr. Libirio is a very approachable and easy to like gentleman just proving the old adage "the bigger they are, the nicer they are" Mr. Liborio is quick to credit his envied staff of trainers, most like Mr. Liborio are Champions in their own right with the overwhelming success of American Top Team. The Coconut Creek American Top Team is a well oiled and highly functional machine due in part to the expert directon of General Manager Richie Guerriero. Mr. Guerriero keeps everything running like a fine tuned watch,coordinating fighters and schedules has got to be a challenging experience. Every fighter in the house was a legitimate athlete, not a poser in the place. If you are a Mixed Martial Artist, welcome to Heaven. |
Alex Cruz |
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MMA Florida Fighter and MMA Florida Fighter Productions recently traveled to St. Petersburg to visit Alex Cruz a very impressive Mixed Martial Arts newcomer who trains at theElite Training Center. The Elite Trainiing Center is operated by Director and Chief Instructor Phil Beatty, who is a top notch Martial Artist with the vision to incorporate "Old School" Martial Arts, when we fought bare knuckles on concrete floors in a 12x12 taped ring, with the disciplines of Muay Thai and Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Mr. Beatty like all great trainers has surrounded himself with outstanding talent. His Muay Thai instructor Roger Patrizzi with over 20 years experience has an impressive Muay Thai as well as Vale Tudo competition record. Eduardo de Lima is the man on the ground, a Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu Jitsu tournament champion whose ability to transition from the sport to the more combat oriented techniques of a Mixed Martial Arts cage fight allows the Elite trained fighters to get reality based training. Alex Cruz has taken advantage of this available talent and made it his own. Alex has great hands, good speed and plenty of penetrating impact power. Alex has punishing kicks and a strong well schooled understanding of the sport. Keep your eye on Alex Cruz, we are going to be hearing from him. |
Crafton Wallace |
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MMA Florida Fighter and MMA Florida Fighter Productions Took a drive south to Naples to talk to Crafton Wallace. Arguably the most successful and well known Mixed Martial Artist in south Florida. Training out of Jabz fitness center in Naples Florida, Wallace and Inferno MMA have an excellent training area located inside Jabz. And unlike many fight clubs located in fitness centers Inferno is not stuck in a small room with workouts scheduled between yoga classes. Inferno has its own designated large workout area with plenty of grappling room, Thai heavy bags, striking pads and a cage, and even the dreaded "Tire". Jabz fitness center has in its own right an incredible array of top of the line fitness and weight training equipment. It is a well layed out facility with a friendly staff and ample parking. A true competitor Crafton Wallace has competed in about every full contact Martial Arts format there is and excelled in all of them. a real crowd pleaser Mr. Wallace's fights are always exciting and filled with non stop action. Known for his dominating fighting skills as well as his training regimen Mr. Wallace is sought out by other Mixed Martial Arts fighters, some who have traveled great distances to cross train with this well respected fighter and trainer. I have personally participated in a Crafton Wallace workout and all I can say is , if you want to get in fighting shape then this is the place for you. Just don't come limping ! |
Joe Ray |
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MMA Florida Fighter took a trip across the state to visit the Freestyle Fighting Academy located in South Miami. We are on our way to interview Joe Ray, an impressive up and coming MMA fighter. We arrived at Freestyle Fighting Academy Wednesday afternoon; the gym was full of fighters going through their individual routines. Owner and trainer, Marcos Avellan was in the ring going through an intense Muay Thai workout. Owned by the Avellan brothers, David and Marcos, Freestyle Fighting Academy is a well equipped gym with a large ring, a cage, a weight room and a large grappling area. Open 24 hours a day, finding time to work out is never a problem at Freestyle Fighting Academy. Watching Joe workout you can't help but be impressed with Joe's strength and speed. Joe spent a year in Thailand and is planning on going back to train there again this year. If Joe continues to improve at his present pace, MMA Florida Fighter is sure we are looking at a future champion! |
Danny Babcock |
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MMA Florida Fighter took a ride to Port St. Lucie this week to visit Team Animal and to sit down and talk to Team Animal coach and owner Marco Slayne and RFC and ISKA middle weight champion Danny "Bad Boy" Babcock. When we arrived Coach Marco Slayne, assisted by champion Danny Babcock, was just finishing up a young fighter's class. It was quite impressive watching these two highly talented Men passing on years of knowledge and experience to the next generation of MMA fighters Not a typical gym in the traditional sense, Team Animal tracks it's own course, but discipline and respect are deeply ingrained in all the fighters in the gym and the environment for learning is excellent. Middle weight champion Danny Babcock is a poised and confident man of few words. Danny prefers to do his talking in the ring. With a work ethic second to none MMA Florida Fighter believes that we will be hearing from Danny "Bad Boy" Babcock and Team Animal a lot in the coming years. |
Marcio Cruz |
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MMA Florida Fighter and MMA Florida Fighter Productions, recently traveled to Largo, Florida to interview Marcio Cruz. The interview was graciously arranged by Daniel Vieira, manager of David Vieira Brazilian Ju-Jitsu school in Largo. The David Vieira Brazilian Ju-Jitsu school is a well thought out facility with plenty of mat space, an excellent striking area, a weight room, and an on-site cage. The feel of old school respect and tradition permeates the air as you enter the school - you want to Gi up and start rolling immediately. MMA Florida Fighter was greeted at the door by Daniel Vieira and Marcio Cruz and was immediately made to feel welcome. When I sat down with Marcio, I was instantaneously taken with the gentle, respectful demeanor of this awesome competitor, who by the way, is opening his own school in Tampa, FL. I gave a lot of thought on how to describe these two gentlemen and our experience at the David Vieira Brazilian Ju-Jitsu School. "First Class" is the first thing that came to my mind. If Daniel Vieira and Marcio Cruz are examples of Brazilian hospitality, MMA Florida Fighter is taking his wife to Brazil next vacation. |
Ron Jacobs |
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MMA Florida Fighter paid a visit to the Tampa Fight factory to interview two of Highlander fight team coach Mike Yanezs' fighters. The Highlander fight team trains at the Tampa Fight Factory, an incredible facility with a large ring, ample weight and cardio equipment as well as numerous heavy bags and grappling mats. The Tampa Fight Factory is owned and operated by boxing legend Peter Fernandez who graciously welcomed us in to his gym to conduct our interviews. MMA Florida Fighter would like to come back and interview Mr. Fernandez, as he is truly one of boxings leading authorities. We sat down with Mike Yanez of the Highlander fight team to interview one of Highlanders newest inductees into the pro ranks of MMA Fighting, Ron "no chance" Jacobs. Ron is a quiet man and has only been training with Mr. Yanez and the Highlander fight team for one year. Ron has Good speed and is learning his craft well. Ron is a hard worker and under the expert tutaledge of Mike Yanez. we predict a very successful career for Mr. Jacobs. |
Rob Turner |
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MMA Florida Fighter paid a visit to the Tampa Fight factory to interview two of Highlander fight team coach Mike Yanezs' fighters. The Highlander fight team trains at the Tampa Fight Factory, an incredible facility with a large ring, ample weight and cardio equipment as well as numerous heavy bags and grappling mats. The Tampa Fight Factory is owned and operated by boxing legend Peter Fernandez who graciously welcomed us in to his gym to conduct our interviews. MMA Florida Fighter would like to come back and interview Mr. Fernandez, as he is truly one of boxings leading authorities. Our first interview was with Rob "CT" Turner, an incredibly likable guy with an infectious smile, a lightning fast jab and a goodnight right! Trained in ground fighting by Mike Yanez, who by the way, has a very impressive competition resume of his own. Rob and Mike have been training together for years, originally from Kentucky, they have moved to Florida and soon, I predict will be a force to reckon with as they carve out a clearly defined place for themselves in the family of top MMA Florida Fighters. |
Travis Cox |
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MMA Florida Fighter recently made a visit to the Fight Me MMA facility located at Tag's Gym 14561 Palm Beach Blvd in East Fort Myers, FL. We went there to visit Travis Cox, winner of a second round TKO victory over Carlos Gonzalez at Art of Fighting 6 held in Fort Myers FL on November 22, 2009. We also went to speak to Mike Nowling, owner and boxing coach at Lee County Combat sports. Mr. Nowling is a very knowledgeable and talented fighter in his own right. He has trained many successful fighters in the Fort Myers area. Mr. Nowling is considered by many to be one of the state's top boxing trainers. As we entered the gym, it was like stepping back in time. It conjured up images of old school smash mouth fighters, like Roberto Duran, Joe Frazier, Rocky Marciano and yes, Rocky Balboa! After meeting Travis Cox, we were not to be disappointed. You could tell immediately that Travis Cox was that rare competitor that will always step up to the challenge. A true Gladiator, Travis exemplifies the heart and spirit that it takes to be a Mixed Martial Arts Fighter. The next time MMA Florida Fighter pays a visit to Lee County Combat Sports, we are going to take our gear. You just can't help wanting to strap on the leather the minute you walk in the door, good atmosphere, good fighter's, great fight club! |
Jake Graddy |
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Recently, MMA Florida Fighter, accompanied by MMA Florida Fighter Productions, paid a visit to the Torro Training Center, located at 17689 Summerlin Road in Fort Myers, Fl. As soon as you walk in the door you are struck with the reality of being in a "fighters" gym; the look, the sounds, the fighters, and that smell, that unforgettable smell of leather, mats and sweat! To a couple of old warriors it was pure nirvana! We were also noticeably taken by the high level of respect shown to us by all the athletes in the gym, a direct reflection of owner and trainer, Dan Torro. When we arrived class was still in progress, a full house, both men and women were working out together under the close scrutiny of the "Torro training center" ground coach, while Mr. Torro was conducting strike drills in the ring. Oh, the memories! After class, we sat down with Jakob "Jake" Graddy to discuss his impressive victory, (a three round unanimous decision) over Tim Barrett in "Art of Fighting 6" held Nov. 22, 2009 in Fort Myers, Fl. Sit down with me and listen, as Jake tells you in his own words his first time experience as an MMA pro fighter. Don't let Jake's pleasant demeanor fool you, he's a rascal. After all, he's a Mixed Martial arts fighter, the toughest sport on the planet! |
Michael Byrnes |
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MMA Florida Fighter took a ride to Port St. Lucie this week to visit Team Animal and to sit down and talk to Team Animal coach and owner Marco Slayne, and Michael "The Kid" Byrnes who just won his first pro MMA bout at the "Strike Force" event held in Miami Jan. 30, 2010. Michael is just one of the fighters being trained at Team Animal. Mike is a well rounded fighter with excellent striking skills and a well rounded ground game. With good looks and exceptional talent we believe Mike is going to carve out his own niche in the Mixed Martial Arts world. Keep your eyes on Michael "The Kid" Byrnes we believe he and Team Animal are going to be heard from on a regular basis. |
About Us
Dedicated to the MMA fighters of Florida, their trainers, and the promoters who provide the venues.
It is the goal of MMA FLORIDA FIGHTER to give the mixed martial arts fighters of Florida their own web site designed specifically to chronicle their quests for the championship belt.
To specialize exclusively on the MMA fighters who live and train in Florida.
It is our intention to give each fighter the opportunity to have their efforts recognized, and to afford fighters who may never enjoy a high level of celebrity a chance to be featured on a web site dedicated solely to the hard work and sacrifices made by all who step up and take on the challenge to compete in the most demanding sport on the planet, Mixed Martial Arts!