2002
IKF AMATEUR
ADULT MEN FULL CONTACT RULES
NORTH AMERICAN CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT

--- MAIN PAGE - CURRENT NEWS - REGISTERED FIGHTERS - EVENT INFO - TO JOIN - 2002 OFFICIALS - FULL CONTACT RULES ---
-

HOME - NEWS - EVENTS - RANKINGS - SANCTIONING - JOINING IKF - RULES & REGULATIONS - MERCHANDISE - ISCF


MORE NEWS OF 11-22-02


RESPONSIBILITY & RESPECT...
Or LACK OF!
Steve Fossum, IKF President






















Mike Marinoble

This news will hit home with every promoter (Kickboxing, MMA or Boxing) and a lot of fighters as well. As promoters know, it's a lot of work to promote an event. There are the unseen tasks that many don't see unless you have ever promoted an event before. On the other hand, there are the many tasks that everyone knows goes with promoting. One of of the most important tasks is matchmaking. Matchmaking is not just 1 phone call to a fighter or trainer and confirming a fighter. It's keeping in constant contact with the fighters trainer/manager to assure he/she will be at the event they "Promised" to show up at. For pro fighters, there's a fight purse involved which makes the desire to show up a lot more. With amateurs the responsibilities vary. On most amateur events the promoters cover travel expenses for the fighter and trainer. However on "Tournament" style events, there are simply too many fighters to cover any travel expenses so instead this burden is put on the fighters and their trainers. At the IKF USA Nationals, everyone knows that to "Walk The Walk" they have to pay their own way to get there. Those who do prove themselves as TRUE CHAMPIONS against their peers. Those who don't remain unproven within their own fight circles fighting whoever they can get matched up against on local events. No matter what the circumstances though, everyone has a certain amount of responsibility and obligations to fulfill to make an event work. In other words, EVERYONE is important in the events success. Which brings us to our story here today...

Although it wasn't planned to be done until 2003, with the work of South Carolina, USA Promoter Ray Thompson, (Right) the first ever IKF North American Amateur FCR Championships was recently held on November 16th, 2002 in Simpsonville South Carolina with great success. However, the success could have and should have been even greater. That lack of success in many ways came due to bad judgement by some of the pre-registered fighters and or their trainers. Of the fighters who were pre-registered, several pulled out of the event before it even happened. Some had true valid reasons for pulling out while the decisions of others may be a question of ethics and respect. Those who were registered but couldn't or didn't make the event included;

  • Super Lightweight: Cody Cook of Venus, Texas, USA, was a no show at the Friday night weigh-ins and had never called promoter Thompson to inform him he wouldn't be there. It was discovered after the event that Cook's trainer (Dorsey) was unable to make the trip. However, a simply phone call to promoter Ray Thompson would have been the respectful thing to do, but was never done.

  • Light Welterweight: Omar Ballard of Columbus, Mississippi, USA was a no show at the Friday night weigh-ins. Ballard was called repeatedly throughout the week and over the weekend to find out what happened but until today, we had no idea what happened to him. His absence left his opponent without a bout, but we have a lot more on this below.

  • Welterweight: Joe Surack of Kokomo, Indiana, USA had to withdraw when his trainer (Eddie Bethea) informed him the week of the event that he could not attend. Surack has since left his trainer.

  • Welterweight: Tommy Alcozer, Jr., Plainview, Texas, USA had to pull out of the event after his trainer's grandmother past away and his trainer (his father) could not attend.

  • Welterweight: Ivan Alvarez, Durango, Mexico, had to pull off of show on 10-12-02 because he could not get his visa to come to the USA for the event.

  • Super Welterweight: Walter McCall, Adel, Georgia, USA had probably the most acceptable reason not to fight of everyone. He was forced to withdraw from this event on 10-31-02 due to his fiance being in a serious car accident. Our prayers went out to her as well as Mr. McCall however, she past away the week of the event.

  • Super Welterweight: Sergio Alvarado, Durango, Mexico, had to pull off of show on 10-12-02 because he could not get his visa to come to the USA for the event.

  • Light Cruiserweight: Jason Ross of Southaven, Mississippi, USA, was registered and scheduled to fight in the first morning bout on Saturday. The winner of their bout would fight again in a late morning/early afternoon bout. The winner of that bout would go on to fight the USA Champion (Jardine) in the Night final. This would mean, to win it all, Ross or his morning opponent would have to fight 3 times in 1 day. A faxed letter was received from Ross' trainers (Mr. Blann) on October 24th, 2002 that stated, "After review of the Tournament format, Mr. Ross will not attend the event." We of course were sad at this, however, we respect the decision of Mr. Ross' trainers and agree, three fights in one day is a lot. Although we stated in the beginning of this event, some fighters may have to fight as many as 3 times on Saturday, this would have been the only situation where this could have happened.

  • Cruiserweight: Andy Foster of Dalton, Georgia, USA pulled out the week of the event because he said he was cut in a sparring session. WHY was he sparring the week of the event.....?

  • Heavyweight: Dan Erickson, Cable, Wisconsin, USA, took another bout in Ireland 2 weeks before the event and was knocked out making him ineligible for this bout leaving his opponent without a fight.


Ray Thompson








Of all these, there were two that stood out to us. Heavyweight Dan Erickson is a great fighter. He had an undefeated record of 19-0 and was starring at a shot at the IKF Amateur Heavyweight World Title against a European opponent for early 2003. However his choice for taking another bout so close to the IKF North American Amateur FCR Championships was a bad one, no questions asked. Sure, it was probably fun to go to Ireland and fight, but to risk what happened when he had already made a "COMMITMENT" to fight on another event?

As mentioned, Erickson had never lost in his life so were sure losing wasn't even on his mind in Ireland, let alone a loss by KO. In Erickson's lone defense if there is any at all, he and several other fighters on the trip came down with food poisoning. Erickson's decision to save the Ireland promoters event by fighting sick was nice, but in the end, it hurt the promoter of the IKF North American Amateur FCR Championships, Ray Thompson over here in the USA. Making things worse for him was that after he returned from Ireland he didn't even take a moment to contact Thompson or the IKF to inform us of what happened and that he couldn't fight in North American Tournament. Thompson and the IKF only found out after Thompson's Team made several calls to him. And as if it couldn't get any worse, it does... For Erickson...

Erickson had to win the North American Tournament to be able to fight for the IKF Amateur Heavyweight World Title. Now he destroyed all hopes of that for now and what did he get for it? A trip to Ireland where he got sick and knocked out.... Not only did the promoter Ray Thompson get hurt here and Erickson's opponent (Mike Marinoble (Left) who traveled from California) but Erickson hurt himself tremendously as well.

However compared to Erickson, what someone else did made Erickson's act seem trivial to a point. Someone else crossed the line even more when it comes to professional responsibility in the fight game. As all promoters know, it's a major loss when a fight drops out of their show. This loss is also felt with the scheduled opponent who was to fight this individual who dropped out. WORSE YET though is when a fighter chooses not to show up at an event, leaves the promoter and other fighter hanging and goes and fights on another event without bothering to call the other promoter. This would be a shameful lack of professional respect and a total lack of professional responsibility right? Of course it is... and it just happened...

As mentioned above, North American contender, Omar Ballard (no picture on file) of Columbus, Mississippi, USA was a no show at the North American Championships on November 16th, 2002 in Simpsonville South Carolina for an IKF North American Amateur Title bout. The night of the weigh-ins, Friday, November 15th, 2002, everyone waited for Mr. Ballard and his trainer to show up, however he never did. Mr. Ballard was scheduled to fight for the IKF North American Amateur Light Welterweight title against Doyle Gayler (Right) of Kaufman, Texas, USA. Mr. Gayler and his trainer Mr. Chuck Best "DROVE" all the way to South Carolina for this fight only to discover that Mr. Ballard was a "NO SHOW" leaving Gayler without a fight, winning the title by forfeit. As all promoters know, this cost the event promoter, Ray Thompson, a valuable fight for the night time finals. None of the phone calls the Thompson Team made were returned and no one ever heard a thing from Mr. Ballard. NOTHING! Until today...

Today we received an e-mail that noted something of great interest to us here at the IKF and answered a question as to "Where was Mr. Ballard at the North American Championships?" The e-mail listed some results of an event held in New Orleans on November 15th. The promoter of this event was Mr. Joe Ancona. Mr. Ancona promotes a show a week in New Orleans and is a very active promoter. What we are about to tell you, to the best of our knowledge is not the fault of Mr. Joe Ancona. In fact, we feel he may even be surprised, at least we hope so. An attempt to reach him by phone was made today 11-22-02 at 11:12 AM PT) but we only got an answering machine. Here is what was written in a portion of the e-mail;

RESULTS OF THE BIG EASY FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIPS HELD ON FRIDAY NOV 15TH;
"OMAR BALLARD WINNER OVER CHRIS GRIFFIN IN A KICKBOXING MATCH!!!"

As everyone might expect we were sickened and shocked that Mr. Omar Ballard and his trainer Mr. Miller not only didn't show up for his scheduled IKF North American Amateur Tournament bout, but never even called to inform anyone that he wasn't going to show up. Now, WORSE YET, we see that he shunned promoter Ray Thompson and his scheduled opponent, Mr. Doyle Gaylor by taking a fight on the night before this event without saying a word to anyone. This is totally unacceptable and a lack of professional respect for all who were shorted here. Mr. Ballard and his trainer, Mr. Miller should be ashamed of themselves to have done this to the event promoter and Mr. Gaylor. There is NO EXCUSE for this and it will be remembered with all of us involved.

This is not about the IKF here. This is an issue that can relate to EVERY Promoter in the World for EVERY Organization in the world. The IKF lost nothing here. The promoter Mr. Thompson and Mr Gaylor did. This article is not about the IKF crying over a fighter who choose not to show up to fight for an IKF title. It's about our anger towards a fighter and a trainer who would do such a disrespectful thing to ANY PROMOTER!

In regards to the New Orleans promoter Mr. Ancana, the question is, "Did he have any idea that Ballard had been booked to fight on another event the night after his in South Carolina?" Regardless if he did or not, the fault here lands on the fighter (Ballard) and his trainer (Miller).

NO FIGHTER, trainer or manager should EVER BOOK a fight inside the 45 day mark of another previously scheduled bout.

The reason for this is in case the fighter were ever to be knocked out (Like in Erickson's case) or injured in the first event. The 45 day time-line gives time for the fighter to recover. However some times, more time could be needed.

All of us in this sport or any sport need to act responsible and respectful to those around us in order to earn the respect we need to succeed. Heck, we all need to do this in any act of our lives for that matter. There's a saying that's known as the "The Golden Rule". Some may have heard it or read it, some maybe not. I remember it well since it hung by the door of our family home as I was growing up. Since it was by the door I saw it everyday I left the house and it reminded me how to treat others every day. . If you know it, I ask you to remember it. If you never seen it, I ask you to learn it. The saying to me is as simple as asking "How hard is it to do the right thing." It reads;

"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you..."

I'll never forget it. Hopefully you won't either.



SUNDAY, November 17th, 2002, AT 1:50 AM, PT


History Has Been Made!
Success Is Too Small A Word For The First Ever
IKF North American Amateur FCR Championships!























Perelmutter

History has been made and those involved will be remembered forever! IKF North American Championships Promoter Ray Thompson (Left) finally took a moment to rest his feet as he sat along the wall of the venue and watched part of his Iron Spirit Promotions Team picking up chairs and cleaning up after their event tonight. He had the look of success and contentment in his eye that twinkled like someone who just took on the world and won, and he did!

Thompson's Team from his Upstate Karate School in Simpsonville South Carolina were the hosts to one of the greatest Amateur kickboxing events we have ever been a part of and with it, have set the standard as to what will follow with more IKF Championship Tournament events for the years to come. No, there were no fighters from Canada or Mexico there for this "North America" Championship event, but no worries. No offense to them but hey, they weren't needed to make this a great event. This was all USA tonight and the fighters who "Walked the Walk" this time knew the prize was higher and showed it in their performance as well.

We saw some wars tonight that made the crew from Charter Communications proud to be a part of IKF Kickboxing. Charter was so pleased with the event that they are now going to show the event on their South/East sports channel which includes all the south eastern states of the USA. In addition, the show may be released nationally to other Charter affiliates. Simply put, this event was the start of something big! Not just for the North American Tournament system but for the major plan of IKF Kickboxing events on TV!

Sometime event reports tend to brag a bit too much about sellout crowds when there are clearly seats available. Well kickboxing fans, if you were there, you were witness to a TRUE sellout, standing room only crowd. If you weren't there, well... simply put, you missed out BIG!

There were a total of 7 IKF Amateur North American Championship Bouts accompanied by 2 woman's exhibition bouts. We'll be writing more on this event later in the week but for those who are eager for the results lets get to them.

Due to several no shows at the weigh-ins there was only 1 prelim bout for the event that took place Saturday morning. It was in the Light Cruiserweight division between Stephen Thompson of Simpsonville, South Carolina, USA, (23-0/13) and John Scanlon of Chicago, IL, USA (3-2/1). In the bout, Thompson won by head kick TKO at 1:37 of round 1 to advance to his night time championship bout against Bill Jardine of Mondovi, Wisconsin, USA, (8-0). We'd like to point out the heart of a lion in Scanlon. With only 6 amateur kickboxing bouts he's had 3 loses. Two of them now have come from Thompson and the 3rd from National Tournament Champion Kevin Engle (14-3/8) in 2001. Our point is, is that while these other fighters "No showed" for this event, here's Scanlon, matched up against probably the best fighter of the tournament (Record wise at least, if not overall) and he shows up as promised. Talk about "Walking the Walk!" Lets give a round of applause to Mr. Scanlon who knew what he was getting into, but stayed strong as he faced Thompson's storm as long as he could. This is what makes Warriors out of men.

NIGHT EVENT: Before the night's Championship bouts 4 women fighters put on a show for the crowd in 2 exhibition bouts. In the first exhibition Andrea Zalas of Mauldin South Carolina sparred with Lisa Advent of Fountain Inn, South Carolina. In the second exhibition bout, Nicole Hess, Alexandria, Virginia showed why she is the 2002 IKF USA National Junior Girls Flyweight Champion with a strong sparring session against Rachael Preacher of Simpsonville, South Carolina. When the ladies smoke cleared the ring it was time for the men to take the stage and what a performance they gave. Here's the nights results...

BOUT 1
Lightweight - 128.1 lbs. to 132 lbs.
Kicking off the night was Brent Hess of Alexandria, VA, USA (5-0/2, 131, 5'7", 17, 6-25-85, Mike Hess) Vs Joseph Balkis of Robbins, IL, USA (9-7/4, 128, 5'5", 33, 6-28-69, Glenn Hudson) Hess was this years 2002 IKF USA National "Junior Division Featherweight champion at ages 16-17 Year Olds. At the nationals he successfully defended his 2001 National title by defeating Jason Adam of Ean Claire, WI, by TKO at 1:20 of round 1. Balkis was this years 2002 USA Nationals Featherweight runner-up when his bout was stopped due to a cut over his eye at :50 seconds into the 1st round giving the title to Billy Byrd of Aurora, IL. In tonights bout, there was no early stop but plenty of strong action, and most of it all from Hess as he took the title easily by the score of 50-44, 50-43 and 50-42 to become the first "Fighting" IKF North American Amateur Champion. We say "Fighting" because remember, 2 fighters, Light Welterweight Doyle Gayler of Kaufman, Texas, USA and Heavyweight Mike Marinoble of Fair Oaks, California, USA won their titles by forfeit when their opponents were no shows at the weigh-ins. After the event Marinoble announced he will now be turning pro which will make the title vacant again.

BOUT 2
Super Lightweight - 132.1 lbs. to 137 lbs.
This was a straight across rematch from this years 2002 IKF USA National Championships between 2002 IKF USA National Super Lightweight Champion Robert Elledge of Roseville, CA, USA (10-0/3, 136, 5'9", 17, 7-28-84, Dave Marinoble) Vs Justin Pickett of North Augusta, GA, USA (8-1/3, 136, 5'5", 18, 8-18-83, now training with Ray Thompson) These two are currently ranked 1 and 2 in this division. At the 2002 IKF USA National Championships, Elledge won by split decision, 29-28, 29-28 & 28-29. Previous to the final though Pickett had to earn his way there by defeating Joe Surack in the opening round by unanimous decision, 30-27 on all 3 judges cards. Surack was scheduled to be here at the North American Championships but had to withdraw last week when his trainer informed him he could not attend. With the stage set, the two were ready to rock. It was in round 1 that made the scoring difference in this bout as Elledge forced Pickett to a standing 8 count giving him a strong 10-8 advantage on the score cards. From there out the two traded rounds but in the end Elledge would be awarded the belt by unanimous decision, 49-45, 49-46 and 48-46 to claim the IKF North American Super Lightweight title.

BOUT 3
Welterweight - 142.1 lbs. to 147 lbs.
This title matched up Jarett "JP" Perelmutter of Ft. Lauderdale, FL, USA (AKB: 3-0/2, AKB: 3-0/2, 147, 5'6", 27, 4-5-75, Mike Hess) Vs Neil Halmstad of Wrenshall, Minnesota, USA (10-5/0, 152, 5'10", 27, 2-9-75, Self) This was the height and reach of Halmstad (4 inches taller) against the strength of Perelmutter. Coming into the bout ranked number 7 in the super lightweight division Perelmutter had a strong desire to prove he should be ranked higher. As far as Halmstad, at the 2002 IKF USA National Championships he was registered in the light middleweight division where he first defeated Lucus Larson of Mondovi, Wisconsin USA, by unanimous decision 30-27 on all 3 cards but lost to eventual champion Anthony McGaughey by unanimous decision 30-27 on all 3 judges cards. For this event he moved down to a more natural weight for him which was a smart move as far as being crisp on his kicks and punches but at the lower weight, lacked the punching power he had when heavier. Halmstad set the pace early winning the first 2 rounds on 2 of the 3 judges cards but in rounds 3 and 4 he seemed to play into Perelmutter's inside fight game instead of using his reach which cost him dearly as Perelmutter took rounds 3 and 4 on all 3 judges cards. This one came down to who had what in the final round and in the end Perelmutter took the round on all 3 judges cards and with it, took home the belt with a unanimous decision win, 48-47, 48-47 and 49-45.

BOUT 4
Light Middleweight - 153.1 lbs to 159 lbs.
When it comes to winning, Anthony McGaughey of Norman, OK, USA (20-0-1/14, 159, 5'11", 24, 9-27-77, Scott Mincey) may not know how to. McGaughey is the 2002 IKF USA Light Middleweight Champion. At the nationals he successfully defended his 2001 National title by defeating Neil Halmstad by unanimous decision 30-27 on all 3 judges cards. Across the ring was a very game Shaun Gay of Valdosta, GA, USA (3-6/3, 159, 6'1", 23, 5-6-79, James Corbett) Gay is currently ranked number 9 in the super welterweight division. Like at the national championships, McGaughey took his time getting started against Gay and although McGaughey forced Gay to a standing 8 count in the round, he allowed Gay to land some good shots. In round 2, McGaughey decided to turn up the heat and did so with precision which brought an end to this bout at 1:02 of the second round giving McGaughey the first IKF North American Tournament win by TKO. In his defense, Gay could have been like the other "No show" fighters when he read about McGaughey's fight record. But give him credit for being true to his word and showing up to "Walk the Walk" with one of the best.

BOUT 5
Middleweight - 159.1 lbs to 165 lbs.
Have you ever been a judge and thought once a round was over you wish you could just toss a coin in the air to determine who won because it was so close? Well if so, you can relate to the action we all saw in the bout between 2002 IKF USA Middleweight Champion Peyton Russell of Minneapolis, MN, USA (26-4/6, 165, 6', 32, 9-11-69, C. B. Bunkholt) and 2002 runner up Shannon Hudson of Greer, SC, USA (9-5/4, 165, 5'8", 22, 10-11-79, Kevin Hudson) At the 2002 USA Nationals Russell successfully defended his 2001 National title by defeating Travis Buchlolz of Eau Claire, WI, by unanimous decision 30-27 on all 3 judges cards. Hudson was the 2002 USA Nationals runner up in the super middleweight division. At the Nationals in round one he first defeated Brett Crosby of Clinton, MD by TKO at 1:34 of round 3. In the final he lost to Kevin Engle of St Louis, MO by unanimous decision 29-28, 30-27 & 30-27. Hudson choose to move down in weight for this event since no one else registered in his division. It was probably the best move he's made in his fight career. At this weight he was quick, strong and aggressive and his energy level seemed to never go away. On the other hand, remember who he was up against... Peyton Russell has been around the world in his career and has come home a winner 26 of 30 times. Many thought Russell would be too strong for Hudson but to the surprise of many, Hudson turned out to be the strong one. This was yet another great battle between two warriors with strong hearts and plenty of skill to go to war with. We can't tell you what bout one judge was watching who gave Russell all 5 rounds scoring it 50-45, but the other two judges saw the fight we saw. One judge gave them each 2 rounds and couldn't come to an answer in round 3 giving them both 10 for an ending score of 48-48. The third judge forced himself to a decision and it was the small difference that gave the bout to Russell by majority decision with a score of 48-47 Russell. With the question of the one judges scoring in mind (50-45), do all of you hear what we hear in the echoes of our heads..."Rematch... Rematch..." What a GREAT FIGHT!

BOUT 6
Cruiserweight - 186.1 lbs to 195 lbs.
Adam Sylvia of Alexandria, VA, USA (11-0/8, 194, 5'11", 28, 11-5-73, Mike Hess) is a 2 time IKF USA National Amateur Champion. At this years nationals he fought one of the most memorable and classic kickboxing wars we can remember against Tim Mazurkiewicz of Beloit, WI, USA (16-3/13, 190, 6'1", 30, 5-4-72, Pete Hetrick, Butch Elliot). This bout could have gone either way and on this night, the odds favored Sylvia as he walked away with a majority decision victory, 30-26, 30-26 & 28-28. Tonight he faced across the ring a fighter we've seen for several years now come up just short of attaining a deserving title, Adrian Turpin of Anderson, GA, USA (6-6/0, 192, 6', 34, 1-4-68, Ben Turpin) At this years nationals, Turpin had lost to in the opening round to Mazurkiewicz by unanimous decision 29-28, 30-26 & 30-26. The odds makers had Sylvia way ahead to win this bout and win it quick, but on this night, there would be a new Turpin who showed up for the show that would surprise and even at times, confuse Sylvia with his hear, desire and some strong kicks. As expected, Sylvia took rounds 1 and 2 on the cards, but not by much. Turpin hung tough and toe to toe all the way through them. The surprise came in round 3 where Turpin took 2 of the 3 judges scores. Although he hung tough, tough wasn't enough as Sylvia picked, jabbed and sliced his way to the end to take home the title with a unanimous decision win 48-43, 49-45 and 50-42. NOTE: Our prayers go out to Adrian's father who was put into the hospital last night and is in critical condition. We can only hope for him to recover soon.

BOUT 7
Light Cruiserweight - 179.1 lbs to 186 lbs
Can you say "MAIN EVENT?!" This was the bout the hometown crowd had been waiting for. It was champion against champion and neither had ever lost a bout. Between them they had 31 wins but in the end, someone would have to lose and with it, experience their first ever kickboxing loss. 2002 IKF USA National Light Cruiserweight Champion Bill Jardine of Mondovi, WI, USA (8-0/0, 186, 6'3", 24, 9-22-77, Michael Lind) had no plan to see that 1 loss on his fight record, but than again, he never faced Stephen Thompson of Simpsonville, South Carolina, USA (23-0/13, 179, 6', 19, 2-11-83, Ray Thompson). They call Thompson "The Wonderboy" and well, you just have to see him face to face to know why they dare to call him "Boy" but after you see him fight, you'll see where the word "Wonder" came from. Thompson was this years 2002 IKF USA National Light Heavyweight champion and had registered for this event in the light heavyweight. However, his only challenger was the same person he beat in 44 seconds of round 1 to defend his Nationals Title (A title that he's held for 3 years in a row) this year, John Scanlon. No offense to Scanlon but Thompson knew he wanted to be challenged more so he moved up to Jardine's weight bracket and Scanlon followed him. As mentioned, above, Thompson had to face Scanlon in a prelim bout and defeat him again before moving on to face Jardin, which he did.

For Jardine, at this years 2002 IKF USA Nationals he first defeated Scott Christopher of Cudaley, WI by unanimous decision, 30-25, 30-26 & 29-25. In his championship bout he defeated Jason Ross of Southaven, Mississippi by unanimous decision 30-27 on all 3 judges cards to win the National title.

When the bell rang, the two went to work and Jardine saw a different level of competition then he had ever seen before. Although he has a champions skill, Jardine encountered something usually seen by opponents of pro IKF Heavyweight Champion Dennis Alexio. When your on the ropes and Thompson starts a combination, he doesn't quit until you either move, throw a successful counter or, as happened in this fight, have a referee like Dan Stell step in to give you a deserved 8 count. Although he was strong in round 1, Jardine had no answer to Thompson's non stop punch and kick attack in rounds 2 and 3 forcing referee Stell to give him standing 8 counts in both rounds. Still game with heart to match, Jardine had no plans of stopping early as he entered round 4 with his eyes wide open. However Thompson just gets stronger the longer he fights and by now he was just warming up. He was too much for Jardine who fought like a warrior, but this night belonged to Thompson as referee Dan Stell stopped this one at 1:26 of the 4th round giving Thompson the title and Jardine his first loss.















Perelmutter




















As we close this story we need to say something to all of you. We have "NEVER" see such heart, such effort and such passion in the ring as we saw tonight for not just those who won, but for those who didn't. Fighters we thought may be stopped early fought to the end and made us all respect them more as warriors for it. We are "PROUD" to be associated with such a great cast of fighters as we were tonight. Fighters who kept their word and "Walked the Walk" to fight for the IKF Brass! For those who won, congratulations on your accomplishment tonight. For those who didn't, may we remind you that one fight does not dictate your career. It's not that you lost but how you learn from your loss that will be the important lesson of your life. As the martial arts saying goes, "Fall down 6 times, get up 7." Any trainer knows, you can always improve a fighters skill, but you cannot teach HEART, PASSION and DESIRE. These are things we saw from EVERY fighter we saw today. Were sure to see you all again and maybe next time, we will see the IKF Brass around your waist.

On behalf of Ray Thompson's Upstate Karate and Iron Spirit Promotions Team, Charter Communications, Foothills Ford of Simpsonville South Carolina, the officials, the IKF and of course, kickboxing fans around the world, we bid you goodnight from yet another great night of IKF Championship Kickboxing from Simpsonville, South Carolina, USA!

For more information on this event please Upstate Karate, Inc. Ray & Gloria Thompson or Rebecca Preacher at (864) 967-3930, Cell (864) 505-4237, e-mail- tetsushin2@aol.com.



SATURDAY, November 16th, 2002, AT 2:20 AM, PT

After Weigh-Ins... Several
"No Show"
To "Walk The Walk"

Like at any Tournament, last minute drop outs are bound to happen. However, when a North American Title and a $240.00 Title belt is on the line, we rarely see any fighters pull away... Well, sadly to say, after weigh-ins yesterday there were some missing fighters who failed to show up to the first ever, IKF North American Amateur Championships. Some of them had their reasons while others have yet to even return a call to explain why they are missing here today...

Of them, they include, 2002 USA Nationals Champion Cody Cook (Left) of Venus, Texas who we have no reason why he didn't show up. Andy Foster of Dalton, Georgia who informed Promoter Ray Thompson that he suffered a cut in a sparring session and Omar Ballard of Columbus, Mississippi who as well is missing without any reason given.

Doyle Gayler (Right, 2002 IKF USA National Champion, 36-5/25) of Kaufman, Texas drove all the way here only to find out his opponent Omar Ballard was a "No Show!" Because of this, Gaylor automatically wins the IKF North American Light Welterweight title making him the second (Marinoble below being the first) North American Title winner by Forfeit.

The outcome of all this meant a major change in the morning portion where there will now only be 1 morning prelim bout between Light Cruiserweights Stephen Thompson of Simpsonville, South Carolina against John Scanlon of Chicago Illinois. The winner of which will fight Bill Jardine of Mondovi, Wisconsin in the Main Event on tonights show. Below is the revised fight card schedule...




  • SATURDAY MORNING 3 ROUND PRELIM BOUT ORDER
    1. Light Cruiserweight - 179.1 lbs to 186 lbs.:
      • Stephen Thompson, Simpsonville, SC, USA, 23-0/13 Vs John Scanlon, Chicago, IL, USA, 3-2/1

  • SATURDAY NIGHT FINALS - All 5 Round Bouts
    • 7:00 PM: 2002 IKF North American Amateur Championship Title Bouts Begin.

    1. Lightweight - 128.1 lbs. to 132 lbs.:
      • Brent Hess, Alexandria, VA, USA, 5-0/2 Vs Joseph Balkis, Robbins, IL, USA, 9-7/4.

    2. Super Lightweight - 132.1 lbs. to 137 lbs.:
      • Robert Elledge, Roseville, CA, 10-0/3 Vs Justin Pickett, North Augusta, GA, USA, 8-1/3.

    3. Light Welterweight - 137.1 lbs. to 142 lbs.:
      • Doyle Gayler, Kaufman, TX, USA, 36-5/25 Vs Omar Ballard Columbus, MS, USA, 9-1/5.

    4. Welterweight - 142.1 lbs. to 147 lbs.:
      • Neil Halmstad Wrenshall, Minnesota, USA, 10-5/0 Vs Jarett "JP" Perelmutter, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, USA, AKB: 3-0/2.

    5. Light Middleweight - 153.1 lbs to 159 lbs.:
      • Anthony McGaughey, Norman, OK, USA, 20-0-1/14 Vs Shaun Gay Valdosta, GA, USA, 3-6/3.

    6. Middleweight - 159.1 lbs to 165 lbs.:
      • Peyton Russell, Minneapolis, MN, USA, 26-4/6 Vs Shannon Hudson, Greer, SC, USA, 9-5/4.

    7. Cruiserweight - 186.1 lbs to 195 lbs.:
      • Adam Sylvia, Alexandria, VA, USA, 11-0/8 Vs Adrian Turpin, Anderson, GA, USA, 6-6/0

    8. Light Cruiserweight - 179.1 lbs to 186 lbs:
      • Bill Jardine, Mondovi, WI, USA, 7-0/0 Vs Winner of Morning Prelim Bout number 3.

For more information on this event please go to the event info site by clicking HERE. Or, please contact the event Promoters, Upstate Karate, Inc. Ray & Gloria Thompson or Rebecca Preacher at (864) 967-3930, Cell (864) 505-4237, e-mail- tetsushin2@aol.com. Thank You.


FRIDAY, November 15th, 2002, AT 4:30 AM, PT


IT'S HERE!
The First
IKF
North American Amateur FCR Championships!





Thompson

As for the fighters, all the training is done but the work has just begun for IKF North American Amateur Full Contact Rules Championship Promoter Ray Thompson (Left) and his promotional staff. By tonight, all the fighters will be in Simpsonville South Carolina USA, checked in, weighed in and given final instructions before laying down for the night. By Saturday morning, all of them will be ready to fight in the first IKF Amateur North American Championship Tournament.

Along with Thompson and his staff will be IKF Referee Dan Stell (Left) who gave an officials seminar last night. Stell is one of the top referees in the world and will share duty with Referee Tommy Seigler.

Also on hand will be IKF Representative and World Ambassador Brooks Mason (Right) who will handle some of the Charter TV "Play by Play". Since there was some problems with the phone line hook-up, Mason will not be teaming up with IKF Internet Radio Chief Johnny Wall as they did at this years IKF USA National

The event will be filmed by Charter Communications out of the South East Region of the USA. Charter is one of the largest cable companies in the Nation and if the company likes the event there is a possibility of it being shown around the USA through other Charter affiliates."It's a start for something big as far as TV goes" says Fossum. "TV is no easy task to attain for the sport of kickboxing so as in many things, we feel we have to reinvent the wheel as far as broadcasting of kickboxing on TV. We have to approach it as if its never been done before and this is our foundation."

Here are the weekend schedule and match-ups for the one day Tournament on November 16th.

  • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15th, SCHEDULE:
    • 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM: Fighters Check-In, Weigh-ins & Pre-fight Dr.'s checkup.
    • 7:10 PM - 7:30 PM: Fighter rules meeting. ALL FIGHTERS and CORNERMEN MUST BE PRESENT AT THIS MEETINGS!
  • SATURDAY NOVEMBER 16th, SCHEDULE:
    • 8:00 AM: Doors open for "ALL" fighters and trainers to prepare for their bouts.
    • 9:00 AM: Doors open for spectators.
    • 9:30 AM: First fight begins. ALL "PRELIM" FIGHTERS MUST BE READY TO FIGHT. ALL "PRELIM" FIGHTERS MUST REMAIN ON PREMISES until Prelims are over.
    • 5:30 PM: All preliminary bouts end. (that's the plan anyway)





Mason

The 2002 IKF USA National Amateur FCR Champions
That will Contend Along With The 12 Other Contenders At The First Annual
IKF North American Amateur FCR Championships

  • SATURDAY MORNING 3 ROUND PRELIM BOUT ORDER;

    1. Super Lightweight - 132.1 lbs. to 137 lbs.:
      • Cody Cook, Venus, TX, USA, 4-0/0 Vs Justin Pickett, North Augusta, GA, USA, 8-1/3.

    2. Welterweight - 142.1 lbs. to 147 lbs.:
      • Neil Halmstad Wrenshall, Minnesota, USA, 10-5/0 Vs Jarett "JP" Perelmutter, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, USA, AKB: 3-0/2.

    3. Light Cruiserweight - 179.1 lbs to 186 lbs.:
      • Stephen Thompson, Simpsonville, SC, USA, 23-0/13 Vs John Scanlon, Chicago, IL, USA, 3-2/1

    4. Cruiserweight - 186.1 lbs to 195 lbs.:
      • Adrian Turpin, Anderson, GA, USA, 6-6/0 Vs Andy Foster, Dalton, GA, USA, 0-2/0

  • SATURDAY NIGHT FINALS - All 5 Round Bouts.

    • 7:00 PM: 2002 IKF North American Amateur Championship Title Bouts Begin.

    1. Lightweight - 128.1 lbs. to 132 lbs.:
      • Brent Hess, Alexandria, VA, USA, 5-0/2 Vs Joseph Balkis, Robbins, IL, USA, 9-7/4.

    2. Light Welterweight - 137.1 lbs. to 142 lbs.:
      • Doyle Gayler, Kaufman, TX, USA, 36-5/25 Vs Omar Ballard Columbus, MS, USA, 9-1/5.

    3. Light Middleweight - 153.1 lbs to 159 lbs.:
      • Anthony McGaughey, Norman, OK, USA, 20-0-1/14 Vs Shaun Gay Valdosta, GA, USA, 3-6/3.

    4. Middleweight - 159.1 lbs to 165 lbs.:
      • Peyton Russell, Minneapolis, MN, USA, 26-4/6 Vs Shannon Hudson, Greer, SC, USA, 9-5/4.

    5. Super Lightweight - 132.1 lbs. to 137 lbs.:
      • Robert Elledge, Roseville, CA, 10-0/3 Vs Winner of Morning Prelim Bout 1.

    6. Welterweight - 142.1 lbs. to 147 lbs.:
      • Joe Surack, Kokomo, IN, USA, 8-2/4 Vs Winner of Morning Prelim Bout 2.

    7. Cruiserweight - 186.1 lbs to 195 lbs.:
      • Adam Sylvia, Alexandria, VA, USA, 11-0/8 Vs Winner of Morning Prelim Bout number 4.

    8. Light Cruiserweight - 179.1 lbs to 186 lbs:
      • Bill Jardine, Mondovi, WI, USA, 7-0/0 Vs Winner of Morning Prelim Bout number 3.

Our FIRST
North American Tournament Champion
Without Throwing A Kick... or a Punch!

A surprise to many is that we already have our first IKF Amateur North American Champion and he probably doesn't even know it yet. Heavyweight Mike Marinoble's (Left) of Fair Oaks, California, USA (8-2/4 & 1 no contest, 5'11", 204, 35, 5-31-66, Trained by Dave Marinoble) won his title without even stepping into the ring.

Marinoble's opponent was 2002 IKF USA National Amateur Heavyweight Champion Dan Erickson (Right) of Cable, Wisconsin, USA (19-1/9 - (1 no contest), 210, 6'6", 27, 10-10-74, Trained by Mike LaBree). However a poor management decision was made and Erickson took another bout in Ireland about 2 weeks ago. In the bout, Erickson not only lost his first bout ever, he was knocked out making him ineligible for this bout. On the other side of the ring, Marinoble had already bought his ticket to travel across the country. Since it was too close to fight date for him to drop the weight to fight in Cruiserweight (186.1 lbs. - 195 lbs.) a decision was made tonight to give Marinoble the title by Forfeit. Our sources have told us that Marinoble may already be in South Carolina at the time of this posting. He traveled there with his trainer and fellow fighter from his gym, Robert Elledge (2002 USA National Champion) who will fight for the Super Lightweight North American Title. What a welcome this will be after the frustration of discovering he had no one to fight.

For more information on this event please go to the event info site by clicking HERE. Or, please contact the event Promoters, Upstate Karate, Inc. Ray & Gloria Thompson or Rebecca Preacher at (864) 967-3930, Cell (864) 505-4237, e-mail- tetsushin2@aol.com. Thank You.



FRIDAY, November 1st, 2002, AT 11:50 AM, PT





Halmstad's Response To McCall
Proves He's A CLASS ACT!

Yesterday we reported of the tragedy of Nikki Truett, the fiance of the registered North American Contender Walter "Peewee" McCall. (Please see story below). Due to the tragedy, McCall was forced to drop out of the 2002 IKF North American Amateur Championships leaving contender Neil. Halmstad of Minnesota without an opponent in his weightclass (Super Welterweight). The following is an e-mail response from Mr. Halmstad which we feel was a VERY CLASS ACT under the tragic circumstances.

Mr. McCall
My family would like to extend prayers and sympathy to you and Nikki. I can only imagine the feeling of having someone that important in your life come into such a horrible incident. Hopefully now with rest and time the healing will begin.
If the situation where reversed I would also set aside everything to be with the one Love. That is more important than any fight no matter how big. When I received a call from Mr. Lassi I was unaware of the situation at hand. After reading the news on the IKF site it made things quit clear that you would not be able to compete. You have nothing to be sorry about, I completely understand. Please feel free to keep use updated on Nikki's condition. I'm sure at some point after all of this is behind you we would be able to have that fight.
God Bless
Neil Halmstad
Psalm 57 (1) Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me, for in you my soul takes refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the disaster has passed.


NOTE: Today Mr. Halmstad was moved down to the Welterweight division where he and 3 other contenders will battle for the 2002 IKF North American Welterweight Title.




MORE NEWS OF 11-1-02




Changes In The Welterweight Division
For the North American Championships


For more info, please Contact: Upstate Karate, Inc. Ray, Gloria Thompson or Rebecca Preacher at (864) 967-3930, Cell (864) 505-4237, e-mail- tetsushin2@aol.com.


THURSDAY, October 31st, 2002, AT 1:40 PM, PT


Your Prayers Are Needed...


Valdosta, Georgia, USA:
Nikki Truett, the fiance of the fearless fighter, Walter "Peewee" McCall, (Right) has met with a horrible accident. While traveling on a road in rural Berrien County, Georgia, she was struck in the head by the head, neck, and shoulders of a deer. Unconscious, she traveled down the road a quarter mile before striking a tree which shattered her arm and damaged her otherwise.

Because of this, McCall will be unable to train to compete for the IKF North American Amateur Championships as scheduled against Neil Halmstad of Wrenshall, Minnesota, USA. The NA Tournament staff is looking to resolve this situation by accommodating Halmstad in suitable weight class.

The sad part of this situation is that the deer's head and shoulders were separated by the deer's body by a Berrien County deputy's car, who allegedly left the accident scene traveling to have his vehicle inspected. After searching for Nikki for hours, McCall was finally able to encourage authorities to assist in the search. She was found an estimated 5 hours after the accident by State Troopers. McCall said today that Nikki is still unconscious, but she is moving. Her bruised lungs and color is returning as well as her vital signs improving.

we here at the IKF asks that you remember Nikki, medical personnel caring for her, and the McCall family in your prayers. Being considerate of his North American opponent's situation, the never-say-die McCall has issued this statement for Mr. Halmstead's consideration,

"I would hate to be in Neil's shoes where my projected opponent for the North American Super Welterweight title was forced to not fight. For this I am sorry. If Mr. Halmstad is interested, I am willing to fight him whether or not he wins a title sometime after I am able to start training again. Good luck Neil."

For more information in regards to this situation, kind words etc. please contact Mr. McCall's trainer, Mr. James Corbett by e-mail at jscorbett_1@yahoo.com.



MONDAY, October 28th, 2002, AT 12:20 PM, PT





NORTH AMERICAN CHANGE...

ATTENTION Trainers and Fighters of the 2002 IKF North American Amateur Championships. This is a note to inform you that the check-in, weigh-in and pre-fight physical times have changed slightly. Instead of this time frame being 3:30 PM to 7 PM Friday, November 15th, instead, this has been narrowed down to Friday between 5:30 PM and 7:PM. Here is the full weekend schedule including scheduled bouts as well;

For more info, please Contact: Upstate Karate, Inc. Ray, Gloria Thompson or Rebecca Preacher at (864) 967-3930, Cell (864) 505-4237, e-mail- tetsushin2@aol.com.



WEDNESDAY, October 16th, 2002, AT 7:00 PM, PT


USA Fighters Are Ready To
"WALK THE WALK!"
The Fighters Are All Matched To "Walk The Walk" At the First Ever
IKF North American Amateur FCR Championships!

With very little planning, IKF Promoter Ray Thompson (Left) and IKF President Steve Fossum (Right) have put together a full card of Full Contact Rules fights for the first annual IKF North American Amateur Full Contact Rules Championship. This event was planned as a trial event to see if there would be interest for an Amateur North American Championships but was announced so late that high turnouts were not expected.

The event wasn't even planned until after the 2002 IKF USA National Amateur Championships (August) so with only 1 full month of promoting the event, the turn out was good for the potential it had. "We didn't put much into advertising the event until after the 2002 IKF USA Nationals because we weren't even sure how to structure it." Says IKF President Fossum. "However Ray has really stepped up to the plate to organize event logistics in Simpsonville, South Carolina where the event is going to be held."

Surly one of the main reason Fossum was tentative about doing the first ever IKF North American Tournament this year was because he will finally make the move to "Married Man" on November 2nd when he and fiance Toni Foster will marry.

However one day after they the honeymoon on the 14th, it's back to work as he will fly out the next morning for this event.

"It's a lot of work handling all the event logistics due to the wedding" says Fossum.

"This is why Ray will pick up where we leave off while I'm gone as far as fighter needs and questions, not to mention all the work getting the venue ready."

Although Thompson will have his full Promotional Team assisting in the weekends activities he will also have the assistance of IKF Head Official Dan Stell (Right). Stell will be doing an officials seminar on Thursday night, assisting with fighter registration on Friday and will be the head referee for the bouts on Saturday.




With the addition of the IKF Website support and a page dedicated to the event found HERE, the event organizing has basically been easy to handle. "It's a lot less fighters for this event (24) as compared to the USA Nationals, (200+ fighters) so it's obviously a lot easier to organize." continued Fossum.

A major aspect making this event smaller is that it will not feature MuayThai or International Rules fighters as well as Junior Divisions (8-16 year old fighters) or Women. "The cable company doing the filming really wanted to see 'Full Contact American Rules Kickboxing" says Thompson. "Since they were only going to have the time to film about 10-14 bouts on the night final, our title fights were limited." The event will be filmed by Charter Communications out of the South East Region of the USA. Charter is one of the largest cable companies in the Nation and if the company likes the event there is a possibility of it being shown around the USA through other Charter affiliates."It's a start for something big as far as TV goes" says Fossum. "TV is no easy task to attain for the sport of kickboxing so as in many things, we feel we have to reinvent the wheel as far as broadcasting of kickboxing on TV. We have to approach it as if its never been done before and this is our foundation."

Adding to the TV the event will also be on live Internet Radio on AggressionTV.com, just like this years 2002 IKF USA National Amateur Championships was. "We're building a solid foundation for our future which will include both TV and Internet Broadcasting of IKF Events" says Fossum. "It's going to take some time but in the end it will be a solid base and not a 'hit and miss' production like the sport is now. We want consistent programing for IKF Kickboxing and our fans."

Some of the USA Coaches are disappointed about the fact that no Canadian Fighters registered to "Walk The Walk" for the event. In addition, there were only 2 from Mexico but both were forced to drop off the event this week when they claimed they couldn't attain their Visa's to come to America. "I wasn't surprised at the lack of Canadian or Mexico Fighters." said Fossum. "Not because I thought they didn't 'Want' to Walk the Walk but because of the short notice they had to organize travel plans, Visa's etc."

The Future... Hopefully that won't be a problem at next years North American Championships. As the IKF grows, the overall plan is to organize the first ever IKF World Championships as well. If this plan is successful, we will see IKF Regional Tournaments happening in late spring and early summer. The National Tournaments (USA, Canada & Mexico as well as the rest of the World National Tournaments) in August again like this year. The North American Championships in mid October and the World Championships in late November or early December. Looks like EVERYONE is looking to the future of IKF Kickboxing...

Regardless of who "Won't" be at the event, the fact is, there "Will" be plenty of bouts of fighters "Walking The Walk" at this event in it's first year. Here are the match-ups for the one day Tournament on November 16th.

  • Saturday Morning, November 16th: PRELYM BOUTS

    1. Light Cruiserweight - 179.1 lbs to 186 lbs.
      • John Scanlon, Chicago, IL, USA, 3-2/1 Vs Jason Ross, Southaven, MS, USA, 7-1/5.

    2. Super Lightweight - 132.1 lbs. to 137 lbs.
      • Cody Cook, Venus, TX, USA, 4-0/0 Vs Justin Pickett, North Augusta, GA, USA, 8-1/3.

    3. Cruiserweight - 186.1 lbs to 195 lbs.
      • Adrian Turpin, Anderson, GA, USA, 6-6/0 Vs Andy Foster, Dalton, GA, USA, 0-2/0

    4. Light Cruiserweight - 179.1 lbs to 186 lbs.
      • Stephen Thompson, Simpsonville, SC, USA, 23-0/13 Vs Winner of Bout 1 Above.


  • SATURDAY NIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP BOUTS

    1. Lightweight - 128.1 lbs. to 132 lbs.:
      • Brent Hess,Alexandria, VA, USA, 5-0/2 Vs Joseph Balkis, Robbins, IL, USA, 9-7/4.
    2. Light Welterweight - 137.1 lbs. to 142 lbs.:
      • Doyle Gayler, Kaufman, TX, USA, 36-5/25 Vs Omar Ballard Columbus, MS, USA, 9-1/5.
    3. Welterweight - 142.1 lbs. to 147 lbs.:
      • Joe Surack, Kokomo, IN, USA, 8-2/4 Vs Jarett "JP" Perelmutter, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, USA, AKB: 3-0/2.
    4. Super Welterweight - 147.1 lbs. to 153 lbs.:
      • Walter McCall, Adel, GA, USA, 5-1/2 Vs Neil Halmstad, Wrenshall, MN, USA, 10-5/0.
    5. Light Middleweight - 153.1 lbs to 159 lbs.:
      • Anthony McGaughey, Norman, OK, USA, 20-0-1/14 Vs Shaun Gay Valdosta, GA, USA, 3-6/3.
    6. Middleweight - 159.1 lbs to 165 lbs.:
      • Peyton Russell, Minneapolis, MN, USA, 26-4/6 Vs Shannon Hudson, Greer, SC, USA, 9-5/4.
    7. Heavyweight - 195.1 lbs. to 215 lbs.:
      • Dan Erickson,Cable, WI, USA, 19-0 Vs Mike Marinoble, Fair Oaks, CA, USA, 6-2/3.
    8. Super Lightweight - 132.1 lbs. to 137 lbs.:
      • Robert Elledge, Roseville, CA, 8-0/2 Vs Winner of Morning Bout 2 Above.
    9. Cruiserweight - 186.1 lbs to 195 lbs.:
      • Adam Sylvia, Alexandria, VA, USA, 11-0/8 Vs Winner of Morning Prelym Bout number 3.
    10. Light Cruiserweight - 179.1 lbs to 186 lbs:
      • Bill Jardine, Mondovi, WI, USA, 7-0/0 Vs Winner of Morning Prelym Bout number 4.

MuayThai, International Rules, Juniors and Women: Don't give up hope on us. We still plan to schedule your North American Championships in the future. Although it wasn't possible for this year, we "WILL" have your tournaments for the 2003 season.

For more information on this event please go to the event info site by clicking HERE. Or, please contact the event Promoters, Upstate Karate, Inc. Ray & Gloria Thompson or Rebecca Preacher at (864) 967-3930, Cell (864) 505-4237, e-mail- tetsushin2@aol.com. Thank You.

Fighters and Trainers. Please be aware that as of Thursday, October 31st, the IKF will not be your main contact for info. This is because our IKF President, Steve Fossum is getting married on November 2nd and will be gone until November 14th. During this time there will be no web changes made on the IKF website since the "WEBSTAFF" will be off on vacation from November 1st until November 18th. Mr. Fossum will be at this event on November 15th. If for any reason you are forced to pull out of this event or need any info in regards to the event, please make all contact inquiries to Upstate Karate, Inc. Ray & Gloria Thompson or Rebecca Preacher at (864) 967-3930, Cell (864) 505-4237, e-mail- tetsushin2@aol.com. Thank You.

The 2002 IKF USA National Amateur FCR Champions
That will "Walk The Walk" At The First Annual
IKF North American Amateur FCR Championships


MONDAY, October 7th, 2002, AT 5:30 PM, PT

DEADLINE REMINDER

The DEADLINE date for ALL IKF North American Championship Tournament REGISTRATION Is OCTOBER *11th, 2002. Any fighter who's Registration form is RECEIVED (Not Postmarked) Here at the IKF Headquarters AFTER OCTOBER 11th, 2002 will be charged the following LATE FEES:

  • Late registration "RECEIVED" not Postmarked, after October 11th and up until October 12th will be charged an additional $30 late fee.
  • Late registration "RECEIVED" not Postmarked, after October 12th and up until October 15th will be charged an additional $50 late fee.
  • NO REGISTRATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED IF RECEIVED AFTER OCTOBER 15TH. NO EXCEPTIONS.

(*) The registration DEADLINE was moved up to October 1st from October 11th on FRIDAY, September 27th, 2002, AT 8:00 AM.
See North American News Page for this post.
This Late Fee May Be Paid At the USA National Finals Weigh-ins PRIOR to your weigh-in.



THURSDAY, October 3rd, 2002, AT 4:00 PM, PT


Can't Live By "Fight" Alone
By: JoAnne Bachman


As fighters, trainers, and their friends and families converge on Simpsonville, South Carolina, for the IKF North American Tournament Championship on November 16, 2002, each will have a common goal... the fight. Although fighters and trainers will be focused only on the fight, friends and families accompanying them will perhaps have an opportunity to see what Simpsonville, Greenville, and the surrounding areas have to offer. Maybe with so many choices, a few fighters and trainers might even venture out. The city of Simpsonville has the necessities. The host hotel (Holiday Inn Express) is located just a few minutes from the tournament site at the Simpsonville Senior Activity Center. Surrounding the host hotel is a variety of fast food chains including Wendy's, Taco Bell, Araby's, Burger King, Chick-fil-a, Backyard Burgers, Jack-in-the-Box and McDonald's.

If one prefers to dine more formally, Simpsonville hosts national chains such as Cracker Barrel, Applebee's, and Pizza Hut (almost within walking distance of the hotel.) For those who want to check out local restaurants, they need not travel far to experience good food and hospitality. Some of the local favorites include Morgan's, featuring a variety of entrees; Arizona Steakhouse, featuring awesome steaks and salads; Anita's, featuring fine Mexican entrees; Coach House, featuring more traditional Southern foods; or Carolina Fine Foods, featuring fast foods and traditional Southern cuisine. Whitman's Sub Shoppe, located adjacent to Upstate Karate (the host martial arts school) features tasty subs, great ice cream along with karaoke and live entertainment in the Backroom.

For those who want to fix a quick bite in their rooms, the local Walmart Super Center is less than a mile away. After eating, visitors may want to visit our local city park with its inviting playground equipment; just turn right at the Clock Tower. Those who need a little more excitement can journey just a few miles to Golden Park, which offers roller skating, bowling, paint balling, go-carting, miniature golfing, and batting cages. Need more? Just drive a little further. Visitors can take Interstate 385 north for approximately 15 minutes and arrive in Greenville, South Carolina (more information can be obtained at www.greatergreenville.com). Historic downtown has been revitalized and offers a pleasant setting for an afternoon or evening stroll. While strolling down Main Street, visitors can shop in novelty shops or eat in stylish restaurants such as the Coffee Underground, which offers a setting similar to that of a Thursday night sitcom's setting.

If one is not interested in shopping but in professional sports, he or she can wander over to the Bi-Lo Center- home to the NBA developmental league Greenville Groove and to the Kelley Cup winning Greenville Grrrowl Hockey team. (Both teams will be playing during the fight weekend.) For fine arts lovers, the Greenville Symphony Orchestra is scheduled to perform that weekend along with Greenville Little Theater's performance of "The Glass Menagerie." Fine works of art abound at the three local galleries: Bob Jones University Gallery and Museum, Furman University's Thompson Gallery, and the Greenville County Museum of Art. The new library will be open, but if visitors want to research animals first hand, then a visit to the Greenville Zoo is a better opportunity.

Cleveland Park, adjacent to the zoo, provides benches for relaxation. Although star-gazing can be done in the park, a better opportunity is provided at the planetarium at Roper Mountain Science Center. Gazing shoppers can be found at the two local malls: Greenville Mall, smaller with more specialty shops, and Haywood Mall, larger with more traditional shops. For those not into shopping, college and professional sports can be watched at the local sports bars: Bailey's, Wild Wings, and Game Time (which also boasts of a disco). Kids and teens that need entertaining will find Gatti Town and Frank's Fun Park full of video games and teens.

Although Greenville has lots to offer to all ages, visitors can hit the highway and be at a big city, mountains, or the beach in just a few hours. Upstate South Carolina has lots to offer including easy accessibility to Atlanta, Charlotte, Asheville, and Charleston. One can drive south on I-85 for about 2 hours and be in the largest Southern city, Atlanta, Georgia. However, a turn to the north will take one to Charlotte South Carolina in about the same amount of time. Perhaps it's mountains that you crave, the skyline mountains can be reached in Asheville, North Carolina in about 1 ½ hours following I-26 north. Once again, change directions and I-26 south will take the driver to the sandy beaches of historic Charleston, South Carolina. Yes, these surrounding areas are easily accessible, but not needed.

The IKF North American Championship Tournament promises to be an exciting event from beginning to end. One need not venture any farther than the Simpsonville Senior Activity Center to be entertained. Don't miss this one of a kind event, in a one of a kind place.



MONDAY, September 30th, 2002, AT 5:00 PM, PT


CANADIAN & MEXICO
AMATEUR FCR FIGHTERS...
WHERE ARE YOU???
Will there only be "1" Country Flag Flying at the IKF North American Tournament?

Although we have had lots of requests of Canadian and Mexico amateur full contact fighters to fight on an IKF North American Championship Tournament, a quick look to the IKF 2002 NAC "Registered Fighters" page and all would see that there are NO Canadian or Mexican fighters registered for the 2002 North American Championship Tournament.

This really puzzles us since there are so many talented fighters in these countries. We can't help but wonder why they haven't registered yet. Is it because they don't know about the Tournament? Or maybe they think its to far to Travel? Or is the $45 Registration Fee too much? Or maybe they think that it is not worth the effort? Who knows...

We hardly think these thoughts entered there minds... Or did they...? What do you think? What do the readers and fans of IKF Kickboxing think? If you have any thoughts on this feel free to e-mail them to us at main@ikfkickboxing.com. In the "Subject" line of your e-mail put "Thoughts on Can/Mex in 2002 NAC".

They may (or not) be posted on this site. Lets see if we can motivate our friends and neighbors to register for this event and make it a TRUE North American Championship Tournament that everyone will be proud to say they were a part of!!! Come on Canada and Mexico get off your seat and on your feet and get registered!!! It's time to "WALK THE WALK" instead of just "Talk The Talk!"... We hope to see you at THE Show!



FRIDAY, September 27th, 2002, AT 8:00 AM, PT


REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 1st!


We needed to move this deadline up so we know how many fighters will be fighting. This is because we need to order the Championship Belts NOW and we cannot wait for late entrees to determine how many belts we will be needing.



TUESDAY, September 24th, 2002, AT 10:20 AM, PT


SUNNY SOUTH SUCCESS
By: JoAnne Bachman

Mention South Carolina and one immediately thinks of the Sunny South with its old plantation homes, peach cobbler, and sandy beaches. The hot, humid weather and friendly people really don't mix with the martial arts, or do they...? Kickboxers from all across North America will be converging on the Sunny South; each will be striving to achieve some of the success of several Upstate South Carolinians.

Stephen Thompson, (Below Left) Rebecca Preacher, Kevin Hudson, and Shannon Hudson have trained through the heat and humidity to earn a variety of titles. Two of these fighters, Stephen and Shannon, may temporarily forget their good ole Southern hospitality in the ring, but there will be plenty of hospitality outside the ring as competitors and fans get to know Upstate South Carolina during the IKF North American Championship Tournament on November 16, 2002, in Simpsonville, South Carolina.

As competitors and fans arrive in the Upstate they will experience the friendliness of the small town community of Simpsonville along with the luxuries of the bigger city of Greenville, located just a few miles down the road. They may choose to eat in small town, family owned restaurants or nationally know restaurant chains. No matter which type of restaurant visitors choose, they will notice the friendly service and dedication of the proprietors and staff. Friendliness and dedication extend into all areas of service in the Upstate. Perhaps it is this friendliness and dedication that has propelled the host martial arts school, Ray Thompson's Upstate Karate Family Martial Arts Center, to be awarded, many times, the number one rated marital arts school in the Upstate, according to The Greenville News.

Ray Thompson (Right) and his Upstate Karate School exemplify the Southern culture. His students, including World Champion son Stephen Thompson and Rebecca Preacher, exhibit the hard work, dedication, and support for their martial arts "family" and the community. With a student enrollment of approximately 670 students, Mr. T, alias Ray Thompson, has a tremendous influence on the Southern hospitality of our Upstate area. Although the West and Midwest are the U.S. havens for the martial arts, Upstate South Carolina is working hard to increase the national interest in the martial arts. With 15-20 martial arts schools in the Upstate alone, karate lessons are becoming the norm along with dancing lessons, piano lessons, and baseball, football, and basketball teams.

The IKF North American Championship host city Simpsonville, with its population of 16,000 people, supports 3 martial arts schools within its city limits. With martial arts' supporters increasing daily, South Carolinians can't wait to model that Southern hospitality as they cheer on their local heroes, Stephen Thompson from Simpsonville, and Shannon Hudson from Lyman, South Carolina, both of whom will be competing in the IKF North American Championship Tournament. Don't worry, cheers won't be limited to just local heroes because the Sunny South has plenty of cheers and hospitality to share with its new heroes from Canada, Mexico, and other parts of the U. S.





WEDNESDAY, September 4th, 2002, AT 9:40 AM, PT




IKF
NORTH AMERICAN
AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIPS
INFO PAGE!




Hey all you North American Amateur Kickboxers! Here's the Event you've been waiting for! If you think your THE BEST Amateur Kickboxer in North America, we would like to see you on November 16th in Simpsonville, South Carolina, USA. We now have a Main info page for this years IKF North American Amateur Kickboxing Championships. To get all the info, Click HERE!

Also, thanks to some internal changes associated with this event, the fighter Registration fee has been lowered to $45 from $60. To register for this event click HERE.

Wondering if you are eligable or not to qualify for this event? Follow these guidelines below and if your still not sure please e-mail us here at the IKF to find out at Main@IKFKickboxing.com


THURSDAY, August 29th, 2002, AT 8:30 PM, PT


IKF
NORTH AMERICAN
AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIPS
IKF South Carolina Press Staff







Well fight fans we are at it again. For those of you that attended the 2002 IKF USA National Amateur Championships in beautiful Davenport, Iowa you were able to experience the country's ONLY national kickboxing TOURNAMENT. The IKF has been hosting a national tournament for the last four years and each year it gets bigger AND most importantly BETTER. The IKF crew along with the many promoters, trainers, fighters AND fans have made this THE event to compete in. Now we are stepping it up a knotch in that we are promoting the FIRST IKF North American Championships. This event will be in the mens "full contact rules" division. We are planning the International and Muay Thai Rules N. Am Championships for early next year.

Earlier this year promoter Ray Thompson (Right) from Simpsonville, South Carolina, USA was approached by IKF President Steve Fossum to see if they could work together, develop and promote the first North American Championships. They started brainstorming and planning and finally it is to come to pass on November 16th in Simpsonville, South Carolina, USA.

Why Simpsonville? It's really quite simple. It is the stomping grounds of the FIRST promoter that was willing to step up to the challenge issued by the IKF President and give it a go so that the fighters can again "Walk the Walk" but this time at a higher level and for a bigger prize, the coveted IKF North American Title. Simpsonville is a small town with a "Small Town" feel. If you are looking for bright lights and tall buildings then you WILL be disappointed (and your sights are on the wrong subject) but if you are looking for a beautiful venue with two gymnasiums connected by a common foyer that can hold two separate events simultaneously then you WON'T be disappointed . If you are looking for friendly people Simpsonville is the place. If you are looking for a promoter that has connections with the largest cable company in the country, Charter Cable, and is having his event filmed and aired than you have found him.

Simpsonville is located in what is called "The Upstate" which is where our title sponsor is located, Foothills Ford. Foothills Ford is owned and operated by Mr. Mike Kennedy who is a big fan and supporter of the martial arts. Without his sponsorship this event WOULD NOT be possible. A special thanks to Mike and the Foothills Ford Team!!

Simpsonville is also home of Ray Thompson, owner of one of the largest martial arts schools in the south east and trainer of Stephen "Wonderboy" Thompson, (Right) three time National IKF Champion. Ray is hoping to bring the same skills to the tournament that helped him build a martial arts school and business that accommodates over 650 ACTIVE students studying seven different arts in a community of only 16,000 residents. That takes skill and Ray is planning on using that skill to promote an event we all will be proud to say we were a part of. Along with the IKF Staff this event will sure to be the best one yet. Of course it will be NOTHING without the warriors that are willing to "Walk the Walk" for THE title of IKF North American Champion.

Now trainers, fighters and fans mark Nov. 16th on your calender and make preparations for the FIRST ever IKF North American Championships. Come be a part of IKF history for we're sure this one will go down in the books as one of the Great ones!!! Anyone wanting to find out about registration can go to the "upcoming events" page and scroll down to the "November" calender and find the info and registration Registration Link on the ad for the event.

To all our friends from Canada and Mexico, you are a very important part of this event. This event needs to have representatives from your countries that are willing to step up to the challenge and "Walk the Walk". See you on Nov 16th.

USA Fighters Who Won The 2002 IKF USA National Championships and REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT Will be the Automatic Number 1 Seed and Automatically placed in the FINAL Bout at this event. All second place finisher of the 2002 IKF USA National Championships may REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT with all other REGISTERED Fighters. If the Second place finisher of the 2002 IKF USA National Championships Chooses Not To attend this event, The third place finisher may REGISTER To Attend Instead....If not him, we go to number 4, etc. They will be placed in the tournament fight brackets to determine the opponent of the 2002 IKF USA National Champion For the IKF North American Amateur Title.



MONDAY, August 19th 2002, AT 7:00 PM, PT


IKF NORTH AMERICAN
AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT


OK Canada and Mexico, now is your chance to "Walk The Walk" and "Bring It ON!" You along with the top 2, 2002 IKF USA National Amateur Tournament contenders are invited to register to "Walk The Walk" at the first annual 2002 IKF North American Amateur Championship Tournament has tentatively been set for November 16th in South Carolina. This "First" Tournament will be for Full Contact Rules only. The Tournament date for International and MuayThai Rules is soon to be set as well so keep close watch here on the news page. Many have been asking how these tournaments will work so here's the basic rundown...

  1. Although we are awaiting final Venue confirmation, this first Tournament will take place in South Carolina, USA (See map at right) hosted by IKF promoter and trainer Ray Thompson.

  2. The tentative date as of today is November 16th, 2002.

  3. This event WILL be filmed and Televised by Charter Communications.

  4. Who can enter this event?
    • Since this is a first time for this event and expenses are an issue (Mainly the cost of the championship belts), it will only be open to the 17 weight divisions for adult men. Although the IKF adult division is classified as ages 18 and over, for this event, we will accept ages 16 and 17 to compete as adults if they desire to. A separate tournament for Juniors and Women fighters is currently in the plans and should be announced soon.

  5. All Current IKF Full Contact Rules North American Champions must enter this event to defend their IKF FCR Amateur North American Titles.

  6. The format of the tournament is as follows;

    • In FCR Divisions where there is an existing/current IKF Amateur North American Champion
      All CURRENT IKF North American Champions regardless of what country they are from (USA, Canada, Mexico) will be given the number 1 seed and placement in the North American Final match. They will only have "1" match in the Tournament.

    • In FCR Divisions where there is NOT and existing/current IKF Amateur North American Champion

      If there is no existing/current North American Champion in a division then the winner of the *2002 IKF USA National Amateur Tournament will be the top seed and one of the fighters in the final match. They will only have "1" match in the Tournament.

      • The second place finisher of the 2002 USA National Amateur Tournament in the division will be allowed to register but will be seeded among all remaining fighters.

        • (*) This is because they have already fought through a tournament system (USA Nationals) and have earned the right to be seeded higher "FOR THIS FIRST TOURNAMENT".

    • The second place finisher of the IKF USA National Amateur Tournament will be allowed to enter the tournament within the mix of other fighters from Canada and Mexico.

    • The winners of the under seeded fighters will fight the USA Champion for the North American Amateur Title, again, "On this FIRST" North American Tournament. The seeding will hopefully change in 2003 with the addition of Canada and Mexico Tournaments.

    • We will only Accept the first "4" Amateur Fighters for each weightclass for this first year of the Tournament. With this in mind, we suggest those interested to send in their registration forms as quickly as possible. This is because we cannot have a fighter fight more than 3 times in 1 day, as in any tournament style fighting event. We will keep you posted as to WHO has registered in what weightclass as we have done with the USA National Amateur Tournament.

  7. As mentioned, in the future we hope to have both Mexico and Canada National Tournaments however as we all know, there was no such tournaments this year. When this happens we will select 2 fighters from each country and specially select 2 other fighters to make even 8 fighter brackets for each division. In a sense, as K-1 has done in the past.

  8. The cost to Register for this tournament is $60.00 (U.S.) for all fighters. when you see the Championship Belts for this event, you will understand why there is a registration fee. All registrations will have the following deadlines;

    • Registration must be paid in full by October 1st.

    • Late registration "RECEIVED" not Postmarked, after October 1st and up until October 11th will be charged an additional $30 late fee.

    • Late registration "RECEIVED" not Postmarked, after October 11th and up until October 15th will be charged an additional $50 late fee.

    • NO REGISTRATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED IF RECEIVED AFTER OCTOBER 25TH. NO EXCEPTIONS.

  9. The Title belts for this event have been valued at $230.00 each so as anyone can see, this event will be expensive for the Awards alone. A Special North American Amateur Championship medallion will be made like the ones for the USA National Amateur Tournament.

  10. To register for this event fighters will go to the IKF North American Amateur Championship Registration page by clicking HERE.




We will be posting more info on this event in the days to come.
If any additional questions, please e-mail the IKF at Main@IKFKickboxing.com


PAST IKF NEWS - CLICK HERE!

HOME - NEWS - EVENTS - RANKINGS - SANCTIONING INFO - JOINING IKF - RULES & REGULATIONS - MERCHANDISE - ISCF