FRIDAY, February 27th, 2004, AT 9:00 AM, PT

WAR
IN WESTPORT
IKF Kickboxing & ISCF MMA!

IKF and ISCF Promoter Dan Tharp will host "WAR IN WESTPORT" tonight at the Beaumont Club in Kansas City Missouri, USA. We had no bout info as of press time but for more info please contact Mr. Dan Tharp at (816) 560-1964 or by E-Mail At: Sicarii67@aol.com

THURSDAY, February 26th, 2004, AT 7:35 PM, PT

Hill and her trainer Kelly Leo (Current IKF Pro FCR East Coast Champion) had to travel to Hanns-Martin-Schleyer's indoor arena in Stuttgart, southwestern Germany. Hill was awarded the WIBF Belt by WIBF representative Juergen Lutz from Germany (Right). After the bout, Hill celebrated her victory as Leo (Left) as he picked her up for the crowd.

Congratulations TNT!
And to your trainers and fans too!
You are a much deserving Champion and we are sure you will represent the title with honor!

Hill has some familiar company now.
That's becomes she is now the second former IKF National Amateur Champion to win an WIBF World Title. 2000 IKF National Amateur MTR Welterweight Champion Sunnshine Fettkether won the WIBF World Welterweight Title. The same year (2000) in Council Bluffs Iowa, Sunshine won her IKF Title, Hill also won her National title when she landed a spinning crescent kick at 1:09 of the 3rd round in what was "The Women's Bout of the Tournament," defeating Katie Ehrhardt of Lake Zurich, Illinois to win the IKF FCR Lightweight National Title. Hill was a 3 Time IKF USA National Amateur Champion.

Before the IKF Nationals in 2000 she had won the IKF Women's Amateur IR U.S. Featherweight title when she defeated Jacqueline Chavez of Los Lunas, New Mexico, USA (15-5 with 4 KO's) by unanimous decision on July 29th, 2000 in Merraitt, Georgia, USA. That same year after the IKF National Tournament she won the IKF Amateur Woman's MuayThai Rules U. S. Featherweight title when she defeated Angela Rivera, of Las Vegas Nevada, USA by split decision, 49-46, 49-47, 50-45. on December 2nd, 2000 in Monterey, CA, USA.

WEDNESDAY, February 25th, 2004, AT 9:30 PM, PT

Bottom Line...
UTAH ROCKED!
"Love and War" Press And More...

Fight Photos by www.forthewin.net

If we were not there, we may have thought this was reported with a typo but sure enough, this bout was for the "MAY" title! Matt May of Napma, Idaho, USA (9-2/5, 144, 5' 10", 20) shared the same name with his opponent, Marom "Whop" May of Salt Lake City, Utah, USA (4-4/1, 144, 5'6", 20) but that was about it. OK, well, their weights were the same too... OK, and their ages... but swear promise, that is it! These two had no desire to share anything else other than punches, kicks and knees in this special 4 round MuayThai bout. As if round 1 wasn't enough, Maron landed a right hand "SHOT" on Matt at the end of the round which was no flash knockdown. Matt took a moment to shake off the cob webs and finally stood to take his count. A trip to the corner for the round break and we saw a revitalized Matt May come out for round 2 which saw plenty of action. Round 3 seemed pretty even until Matt forced referee Lamanna to step in and make sure Marom was OK. However Marom choose not to pay attention Lamanna so Lamanna started an 8 count. It was the right call by the way. Marom, you need to keep your gloves up and look the referee in the eye. If not, the count is starting, which it did. Going into round 4, all 3 judges had the bout 28-27 for Matt. Matt kept the pressure on in round 4, forcing Marom to another legit standing 8 count and finally, the end came at 1:23 when he overwhelmed Marom to take the TKO win at 1:23 of round 4.

Ever so often a fighter comes along that stands out from the others. All of the nights fighters had their own magic but in the nights main event, it was a trimmed up white kid (Please, not being racists here...) named Dan Green from Provo, Utah, USA that stood out among the others. It wasn't so much his Thai skill in the clinch or his knee work that made Green (8-3/4, 180, 6'1", 27) stand out as was his punching and kicking skills. But there was more. Green's punches looked as straight, quick and solid as watching Roy Jones. His kicks were not just hitting the legs, this kid kicked high and did so with accuracy! Just ask his opponent, Arthur Wong of San Francisco, California, USA. This did not appear like a traditional Thai fight. There was little clinching and when there was, the two broke up. This was more of a K-1 style (No clinching) bout. Wong (9-2/1, 180, 5'10", 27) came into the ring as a favorite against Green with plenty of smoker bout experience (Which in reality, are real bouts) and trained by one of the best in the game, Enn Fairtex. Green is trained by Jason Farrish and together these two put on a show. Our question is where have they been? Green should be going to the IKF Nationals with his skill! Only one flaw came to mind here, if Green would have stuck to his hand combinations from the start, this could have ended in round 1. Regardless, Wong took him the distance but there was no questioning who won. This was all Dan Green by unanimous decision, 48-47, 50-45, 50-45.

Green has a great opportunity having a great promoter to promote him such as Lamanna. Something few fighters have at their availability. If the two work together and appreciate each other for what they can bring to an event, we should hear more great things from Utah, not just from Green, but from all these fighter named above. The true test for fighters like Green, and what elevates them to Great will be going to and winning at the IKF Nationals. Hopefully we will see him and others we saw Saturday night there. Nationals is the proving grounds for all amateur kickboxers. Once there, fighters like Green can test his skills against the best such as 2003 IKF/TKO National Champions Tony Stumpf of Omaha, Nebraska, USA or Andy Hoffman of Hanna City, Illinois, USA.

Before we end, lets not forget who was "In the House" in Utah Saturday night. Check out that photo at the right and you will see 4 Thai LEGENDS! Current IKF Pro Muay Thai World Champion Enn Fairtex of Fairtex San Francisco, Luukchang of Master Toddy's in Las Vegas, Bunkerd Faphimai (formally Fairtex) and of course, Sakasam who has done an Outstanding Job as head/chief Muaythai trainer at the MuayThai Institute of Kunponli. Talk about some talent in the ring!

However we had talent outside the ring too. We had three great judges on this event that we here at the IKF as well as promoter Craig Lamanna were very impressed with. "Griffen Reynaud, Jennifer Howell and Jeremy Horn did an outstanding job!" said promoter Lamanna. We here at the IKF second that! Oh and Craig, you my man did an Outstanding job as event referee too! Great job by our fight doctors too, Pari Mashkuri and Ehsan Hadjbian. And don't forget the rest of the staff at the MuayThai Institute of Kunponli for putting on an outstanding event! A special thanks to Richard Weinsoft, Director of the Utah State Athletic Commission for his work and assistance in making MuayThai legal in Utah. For more event info, please contact Mr. Craig Lamanna at (801) 474-3136 or by e-mail at admin@thaiboxutah.com or go to their web page at www.ThaiBoxUtah.com

Fight Photos by www.forthewin.net

NOTE: The MuayThai Institute of Kunponli is in the process of potentially holding and sponsoring with the IKF North Mountain Regionals if all goes as planned. however, this event may be done at another location since the Utah Commission requires a $25 fee to license all amateur kickboxers in Utah. More on this as we know it.

MORE NEWS OF 2-25-04

'Contender'
Finds Match at NBC
A high-priced "Contender" has landed at NBC.

Reuters/Hollywood Reporter
NBC has given a 16 episode order to the boxing-themed reality show "The Contender," which will feature Sylvester Stallone as the on-air frontman. Stallone will also executive produce the DreamWorks TV/Mark Burnett Prods. project with DreamWorks principal Jeffrey Katzenberg and "Survivor" guru Burnett. The series has been described as the "search for the real Rocky," a reference to Stallone's 1976 Oscar-winning film. Each episode of "The Contender" will conclude with a boxing match between two amateur pugilists gleaned from a nationwide search for aspiring boxers, but the show will delve into the personal backgrounds of the dozen or so contenders who make it to the final rounds. It's understood that NBC is eyeing an early 2005 debut date for the show.

The project was shopped to each of the Big Four networks last week. Sources said the producers asked for a hefty license fee of more than $2 million per hour-long episode, and a portion of the advertising time. One source familiar with the deal said NBC wound up meeting the price, which is believed to be a record for a freshman unscripted series. But other knowledgeable sources maintained that because of the interest at ABC, CBS, Fox and NBC and because of the industry heavyweights involved, bidding went well over $2 million per episode.

As for the advertising time, sources said NBC worked out an unusual arrangement with DreamWorks and Burnett Prods. where the producers will buy at least six 30-second spots at NBC's going rate in each episode in order to resell them to advertisers. NBC executives declined to comment on the deal, but sources said the arrangement would likely help facilitate integrated advertising deals with sponsors aiming to get their brands woven into the ring with "The Contender" in addition to buying commercial time on the show. DreamWorks and Burnett are also exploring the possibility of launching a new boxing league in connection with "The Contender," although sources stressed that the ambitious idea was still in the embryonic stage.

Burnett is already in business with NBC as the executive producer of "The Apprentice," as well as last year's limited-run series "The Restaurant." He also has a scripted drama series in development at NBC about a group of people trying to survive on a remote island after a plane crash. It's understood that Jeff Wald, veteran Hollywood talent manager who has also handled such boxers Mike Tyson and George Foreman, played a big part in getting Stallone involved in "The Contender."

Meanwhile, Foreman, a two-time world heavyweight champion, surfaced Friday as the host of a similarly themed show being developed by sportscaster Jim Lampley. The project will bring a group of heavyweights together to live in a house with Foreman while they train with him and practice on one another. The William Morris Agency is shopping the project to network and cable buyers. "Boxers are modern-day gladiators, and this series will challenge these contenders -- physically, mentally and spiritually -- to be the best they can be," Lampley said.

MORE NEWS OF 2-25-04

Craig Smith's IKF East Coast Classic - IKF Virginia

Sorry but we are still awaiting results from this event.
Be Patient now Boys and Girls...
It's not like there were just 10 or 20 fighters there...
Try around 100!

MONDAY, February 23rd, 2004, AT 5:20 PM, PT

Matches for February 27th
Feet and Fists of Fury
Announced

Roseville, CA
A full evening of exciting IKF kickboxing and world class martial arts demonstrations is ready to go for this Friday, February 27th at Lord's Arena in Roseville, California, USA. The line-up below includes some up and comers from across the state of California. Several will get their first feel for full contact Kickboxing. Here are the match-ups as of press time today:

1. Ann Draham, Roseville, CA vs Casey Nolan, San Luis, Obispo, CA.
2. Jon Andresen, Roseville, CA vs Luke Riddering, San Luis Obispo, CA.
3. Chris Gonzales, Santa Barbara, CA vs Chris Cope, Roseville, CA.
4. Matt Dunn, Sacramento, CA vs Rick Cheek, Santa Rosa.
5. Marcus Crandle, Roseville CA vs Augistine Mendoza, Santa Rosa, CA.
6. Richard Hottle, Sacramento, CA vs Mike Napp, Sacramento, CA.
7. Charles Ceazar, San Francisco, CA vs Walt Pelt, San Luis Obispo, CA.
8. Juan Carlos Vega, Dixon, CA vs Germaine Gregory, Sacramento, CA.
9. Andrew Morello, Santa Barbara, CA vs Chad Shepard, Roseville, CA.

For more information contact A.K. Promotions at (916) 780-7483 or by e-mail at johnnyd@akpromotions.org. Order tickets at www.highsierratickets.com or at the door. Please note this is a non- alcoholic, non smoking venue.

MORE NEWS OF 2-23-04

IKF & ISCF Warriors Are Set To Battle As
Winter Wars 2004
Approaches
Noted IKF and ISCF event Expected to Draw Fire on Saturday, March 13

One of the most identifiable and long standing IKF and ISCF events is Augusta, Georgia's Winter Wars. In 2002, Kevin "Hurricane" Hudson won his IKF professional U.S. title there. ISCF Superstars Cam McHargue and Steve Headden won their first ISCF titles at previous Winter Wars cards. Clearly, the event ranks as a highly prestigious one for fighters, particularly those in the Southeast to be a part of as a resume builder, if nothing else.

On Saturday, March 13, 2004, Winter Wars will return to the Garden City and Southern fight fans can expect great IKF and ISCF action. IKF and ISCF World President, Steve Fossum, adds: "This year's Winter Wars will be yet another addition in a long line of great events. Mike and Elizabeth Carlson (Right) have together represented true driving forces for IKF and ISCF for nearly a decade. Anyone wanting to see a truly great event should come to Augusta on March 13."

Winter Wars 2004 will host IKF sanctioned kickboxing bouts under the American/Full Contact Rules and ISCF sanctioned mixed martial arts contests on Saturday, March 13, 2004. It will be held at Gym 5 on Augusta's Fort Gordon. For additional information, or for fighters wishing to compete on the card, contact Augusta Martial Arts Academy at (706) 855-5269 or by e-mail at: augustamaa@earthlink.net

MORE NEWS OF 2-23-04

Rumble at The Marriott
IKF Representative Julie Keppler

IKF Illinois, USA, Friday Night, February 20th, 2004
Fans received non-stop action at the Marriott in Schaumburg, Illinois. Once again, Rob Zbilski hosted a great show. The house was packed and the show was sold out. With the Illinois Department of Regulation there to witness, everything ran extremely smooth. Before we get to the undercard here's how the main event went.

MAIN EVENT: PRO FCR: Tommy "Little Dragon" Bach of Buffalo Grove, Illinois 10/1-3 , 134, 5'9" 30, defeated Keith "The Hammer" Nesbitt of New York 29/9-12, 134, 5'11", 26 (Nesbitt Sr.) by TKO in 1:17 in the 2nd Round.

Here are the official results of the remainder of the nights bouts:

1. AM FCR: Alex Boyles of Beloit, Wisconsin, 5/1-2, 163, 5'11", 22 (Monyelle) defeated Wayne Carrolls of Buffalo Grove, Illinois 4/1-2, 163, 5'9", 35 (Team Z) by unanimous decision 29-24, 29-23, 30-25.
   
   
2. AM FCR: Hiram Harris of Chicago, Illinois , 0/0-0, 211, 6'0", 19 (Shermer), defeated Dave Crawford of Buffalo Grove, Illinois 0/0-0, 200, 6' 3", 29 (McElroy) by unanimous decision 29-26, 28-28, and 28-27.
   
   
3. Junior AM FCR: Jackson Aren of Buffalo Grove, Illinois 0/0-0, 67, 4'7", 12 (Bach) defeated Cameron Monyelle of Beloit, Wisconsin 1/1-0, 66, 4'4", 12 (Monyelle) by unanimous decision 29-28, 29-27, and 29-27. However Monyelle logged a protest immediately because Cameron had a point deducted in Round 3 for missed kicks. Upon review of the tape, he was right. Cameron did get all of his 4 kicks in and therefore a point was added back into the final scores, However this did not change the outcome of the fight. FINAL SCORES after Protest : 29-29, 29-28, and 29-28.
   
   
4. EXHIBITION: Sean Miller (Team Z) vs. Danny Griffin (Team Z)
   
   
5. AM FCR: Mike Spelz of Chicago, Illinois 3/2-0, 160, 6'0", 17 (Kalaba) defeated Kortez Washington, Chicago, Illinois 0/0-0, 156, 5'7", 24 (Shermer) by TKO in Round 1. (Washington chose not to continue at the end of Round 1)
   
   
6. Junior GIRLS AM FCR: 2 time IKF National Champion Sarah Ross of Lake in The Hills, Illinois 7/0-1, 132, 5'6", 13 (TEAM Z) defeated Julie Harvey, Chicago, Illinois 3/1-1, 131, 5'1", 14 (Hudson) by unanimous decision 29-27, 30-27, and 30-27.
   
   
7. AM FCR: Shelton Barnes vs Neil Halmstead: This fight was ruled a "NO CONTEST" due to an accidental elbow thrown by Barnes when attempting a spinning backfist. This caused a cut over Halmsteads right eye and the ringside physician stopped the fight in Round 1.
   
   
8. Tommy "Little Dragon" Bach defeated Keith "The Hammer" Nesbitt (see above).
   
   

For more info on this event please contact TEAM Z at (847) 458-8333 or by e-mail at info@teamzs.com or go to www.teamzs.com

SATURDAY, February 21st, 2004, AT 11:55 PM, PT

Quick Results From
IKF UTAH!

It's going to take awhile to write the story about how impressed we were with not just tonights IKF Sanctioned event at the MuayThai Institute of Kunponli, not just the night officials, the nights crowd, but also the incredible team headed up by club owner Craig Lamanna. Oh and did we mention that without a doubt, Lamanna's 20,000 square foot MuayThai Institute of Kunponli, is without a doubt, the finest training facility we have "EVER" seen in the world! More on that in the full article coming this week, but for now, here are the quick results below.

1. EXHIBITION: J. D. Filiaga (65 lbs.) Vs Timothy "Junior" Ruesga (65 lbs.), Both from the Muay Thai Institute, Salt Lake City, Utah.
   
   
2. AM MTR: Jose Garcia, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, 2-0/0, 156, 5'6", 36, Master Toddy, defeated Ryan Luper, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA, 0-1, 156, 6', 25, Sakasam, by unanimous decision, 29-28, 29-28, 30-28.
   
   
3. AM MTR: Marcus Kimsey, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA, 1-0/0, 160, 6'3", 27, Sakasam, defeated Bruce Sherrod, San Francisco, California, USA, 0-1/0, 163, 5'7", 32, Boonkerd Faphmai by unanimous decision, 30-27 on all 3 judges cards.
   
   
4. AM MTR: Polly Harris, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA, 2-0/1, 128, 5'6", 37, Sakasam, defeated Daria Roseles, Napma, Idaho, USA, 0-1/0, 124, 5'3", 26, Chris Reyna, by TKO in round 3 - Corner threw towel in.
   
   
5. AM MTR: Robby Wyatt, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA, 3-0/0, 150, 5'7", 24, Sakasam, defeated Chris Aldea, San Francisco, California, USA, 1-2/0, 149, 5'8", 23, Enn Fairtex, by unanimous decision, 30-27, 30-27 and 29-28.
   
   
6. AM MTR: Matt May, Napma, Idaho, USA, 9-2/5, 144, 5' 10", 20, Chris Rena, defeated Marom "Whop" May, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA, 4-4/1, 144, 5'6", 20, Sakasam, by TKO at 1:23 of round 4.
   
   
7. AM MTR: Dan Green, Provo, Utah, USA, 8-3/4, 180, 6'1", 27, Jason Farrish, defeated Arthur Wong, San Francisco, California, USA, 9-2/1, 180, 5'10", 27, Enn Fairtex, by unanimous decision, 48-47, 50-45, 50-45.
   
   

MORE NEWS OF 2-21-04

Quick Results From
IKF Illinois

For now, lets just let Sky Drysdale's words explain Friday's IKF Event promoted by IKF Promoter Rob Zbilski: "Just returned from another great card by Rob Zbilski and company. Standing room only! The fights were great and Team Z kept 'em coming! As for Tommy Bach, . . what can you say?! He is bound for big things in this sport! Nice job, Rob. Thanks! " A Complete article will be coming next week from TEAM Z, but for those not wanting to wait, here are the quick results from Austin Baitman below.

1. AM FCR: Alex Boyles defeated Wayne Carrols by decision.
   
   
2. AM FCR: Hiram Harris defeated David Crawford by decision.
   
   
3. AM Junior FCR: Jackson Aren defeated Cameron Monyelle by decision.
   
   
4. EXHIBITION: Sean Miller vs. John Garcia.
   
   
5. AM FCR: Mike Spelz defeated Cortez Washington by TKO in round 1.
   
   
6. AM FCR: Sarah Ross defeated Julia Harvey by decision.
   
   
7. AM FCR: Shelton Barnes vs. Niel Halmstead: Ruled a "No contest" due to accidental foul in round 1.
   
   
8. Pro FCR: Tommy Bach defeated Keith Nesbitt by TKO in round 2.
   
   

MORE NEWS OF 2-21-04

IKF
VIRGINIA

Word from IKF Promoter Craig Smith is that the East Coast Classic was a MAJOR SUCCESS! Although we don't have all the results in yet from the 100 fighters who fought on the event, some of the reported winners were Nicole Hess, Dallas Crowe and Shannon Hudson. Look for the full story and bout results coming from Brooks Mason later this week.

THURSDAY, February 19th, 2004, AT 9:15 PM, PT

This Weeks IKF Events

IKF Illinois
Marriott Hotel in Schaumburg, Illinois, USA

MORE IKF ACTION...

Craig Smith's IKF East Coast Classic
IKF Virginia
Craig Smith's Karate Institute, Inc. Virginia Beach, Virginia, USA

He began studying for an acting career in 1970 and went on to star in 4 action-adventure films, "Jaguar Lives," "Force Five," "Death Cage" and "Mr. X." He has appeared in several T.V. series and was the guest on numerous talk shows, such as Joey Bishop, Johnny Carson, Dinah Shore and the Merv Griffin Show. We could write more on Lewis, but the page just isn't big enough.

If your on the East Coast this weekend the place to be is Craig Smith's Karate Institute, Inc. at 1581 General Booth Blvd. in Virginia Beach, Virginia, USA. There will be 2 separate weigh-ins, Friday evening & Saturday morning from 8:AM - 11:AM. For more info please contact Mr. Craig Smith at (757) 729-0942 or e-mail him at Kickingboxing@aol.com

MORE IKF ACTION...

"Love & War"
IKF Utah
MuayThai Institute of Kunponli, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA

MONDAY, February 16th, 2004, AT 6:50 PM, PT

2003 IKF Nationals & North American Tournaments
Video Information

There seems to be a lot of confusion in regards to the attaining of fight footage via video tape from the 2003 IKF USA Nationals and IKF MTR & FCR North American Tournaments. Despite posting a detailed explanation as to the issues involved, still some seem to think we are hiding behind some hidden agenda or hidden issues. To better understand all the issues involved, we will address them in a time line here for everyone.

1. As every year, we had planned to have a professional video company film the bouts on regular VHS. Our goal was to have the same company as the previous year, Emerald Motion Productions out of Illinois. Emerald Motion Productions charged $20.00 per video and $25 per DVD. They took orders at the 2002 Nationals and had a lot of sales that paid for their time and production costs.
   
   
2. After planning this, on June 25, 2003, Emerald Motion Productions notified by e-mail the following:
   
   
   • "We appreciate you considering us for the filming of the IKF Amateur Nationals. After careful consideration we decided not film the event. This is due to the amount of time it takes in post production. (ties up 3 computers for 1 month) Also, the uncertainty of tapes to be sold is another risk that we would be taking. We feel we just can't make enough money to make this event profitable. Thanks, Adam"
     
     
3. Upon this notification we tried to attain another video company but were unsuccessful so we decided to post on the IKF News page the following on TUESDAY, August 12th, 2003, AT 11:30 PM. Please note what is highlighted in RED.
   
   
   • "This year you will not need to pay for a video pass. We will be filming the Sunday Championship bouts for the IKF/CSS Kickboxing TV Show but we will not be filming the Saturday prelim bouts. For this reason, any of you can bring a video camera in to film you fights and others for free on Saturday as well as Sunday. As noted, we will be filming the Sunday bouts and some of them will later be aired on TV. Since we will be using professional equipment the fee to reproduce the bouts will be a little more than a basic video copy. Those who wish to purchase their championship bout from us may do so at the event at the IKF Table. The fee will be $25.00 for the first bout on the tape and $15 per additional bout."
     
     
4. Yes, this was only 3 days prior to the event and we apologize for such a late notice. However it shows that we had been trying to attain a video company all the way up to the end.
   
   
5. The result, NO ONE ordered a single video from us during the 2003 IKF USA Nationals event.
   
   
6. After the event we received the following initial requests for fight videos:
   
   
   • 7 Requests for 2003 IKF National Tournament
     
     
     • September 25, 2003: Jacqueline Campbell inquired about the 2002 and 2003 Tournament videos.
       
       
     • September 18, 2003: Mr. Jimmy Vakidis was the first to request a 2003 Nationals Video.
       
       
     • October 06, 2003: Robert Matthews requested info on the 2003 Nationals Videos.
       
       
     • October 11, 2003: Kathleen requested info on the 2003 Nationals Videos.
       
       
     • October 26, 2003: Glen Legus requested info on the 2003 Nationals Videos.
       
       
     • December 23, 2003: Charles Pemble requested info on the 2003 Nationals Videos.
       
       
     • January 08, 2004: Mark Jones requested info on the 2003 Nationals Videos.
       
       
   • 2 Requests for 2003 IKF FCR North American Tournament
     
     
     • November 19, 2003: Gerald Jackson requested info on the 2003 FCR North American tournament for Marchelo Bezon.
       
       
     • February 11, 2004: Michael Dean requested info on the 2003 FCR North American Tournament Video.
       
       
   • 2 Request for 2003 IKF MTR North American Tournament
     
     
     • January 08, 2004: Mark Jones requested info on the MTR North American Tournament Videos.
       
       
     • January 12, 2004: Samuel Adams requested info on the 2003 MTR North American Tournament Video.
       
       
   • 4 Requests for IKF TV Programs - Two were sent out to those inquiring.
     
     
     • October 28, 2003: Johnnie K. Felts requested Oct 24th and Oct 31st IKF TV Program on CSS. We replied that the cost of the TV Shows were $35.00 each.
       
       
     • November 20, 2003: Sharyn Ross, mother of Sarah Ross requested a video of the IKF TV Show on CSS that featured her daughter. A video was sent to her trainer, Mr. Rob Zbilski for duplication.
       
       
     • November 24, 2003: Jeff Bybee, father of Jeffrey Bybee requested a copy of IKF TV Program shown on CSS with his son on it. A copy was sent to his trainer Ryan Blackorby for duplication.
       
       
     • January 12, 2004: Maria Hess sent an e-mail inquiring about the IKF TV Program her and her daughter appeared on.
       
       
7. We explained the transfer costs of the videos to regular VHS to posts on the Message Board. This information resulted in several rude replies about the situation that were totally uncalled for. Many of these replies were conclusions made not by the facts but instead, by the general principle of "Duplicating a video is easy." In general, yes it is. However, there were many more issues involved here. Transfer costs from mini DV cam to regular VHS is where this became expensive. From not knowing the details of these costs and how they are broken down the posts on the message board simply became out of hand.
   
   
8. After time, all posts about the Video situation were taken down and all inquiries were asked to contact the IKF directly by phone or e-mail. Still, the argument continued, with NO ONE contacting the IKF directly by e-mail or by phone. Instead, those inquiring simply wanted to argue the issue on the message board. those posts were as well, taken down due to none of them making any sense as to the many related issues surrounding the cost of duplicating the videos. This resulted in this explanation article.
   
   
9. To do the 15 videos above it would cost us a minimum of $1,000.00 in transfer fees alone. IF we sold the above 15 videos for $50 each, we still would be losing between $300 and $500 overall and this does not include shipping cost.
   
   
10. We would like to inform everyone that we are currently trying to reduce the cost of duplication and we hope we have an answer here soon. We apologize for all of this but it should be seen now where we would be losing money on doing this. However, in our efforts to please everyone, we will do our best to make this happen for everyone. We are confident we can come to a resolution and make these videos available soon.
    
    
11. Those requesting copies of any of the IKF TV Programs, the fee for these tapes is $35.00 plus $4 S/H. This fee can be mailed to: IKF, P. O. Box 1205, Newcastle, CA, 95658. Please inform us what tape number you are ordering as noted on the TV Schedule page by clicking HERE.

THURSDAY, February 12th, 2004, AT 5:20 PM, PT

The Middleweights!
Known To Be One Of The Most Exciting Weights For Boxing...
What About In Kickboxing? And What Rule Style?

Recently there has been a lot of talk on the Kickboxing Message Board about Pro Full Contact Rule Middleweight division fighters. Anyone can see that the talent runs deep in this division but who is the best is the real question. A couple of years back, K-1 saw the excitement potential in the Middleweight class and started the K-1 Max for fighters no more than 160 lbs. under the popular K-1 Rules. Although not as successful as the Heavyweight K-1 Tournament Style events "Yet", the K-1 Max Tournaments are growing every year. K-1 USA Super Promoter Scott Coker is scheduled to do a K-1 Max event this coming October in Las Vegas, Nevada to add to his already successful K-1 USA Events in the Spring and late Summer in Las Vegas.

So while K-1 has provided "The Next Level" for Pro fighters who do styles like leg kicks and MuayThai, what about those fighters who don't do leg kicks and or knees? What about the original form of kickboxing here in America, American Full Contact Style (Above the waist)? Other than the very first year, the number of Full Contact Rule style participants at the IKF USA National Amateur Tournament has been more than the number of International Leg Kick & MuayThai style fighters combined. Here are the numbers on this:

• 1999: FCR: 40 vs 46 MTR & IR combined, of which MTR had 29 & IR had 17.
• 2000: FCR: 55 vs 45 MTR & IR combined, of which MTR had 20 & IR had 25.
• 2001: FCR: 125 vs 93 MTR & IR combined, of which MTR had 48 & IR had 45.
• 2002: FCR: 131 vs 68 MTR & IR combined, of which MTR had 31 & IR had 37.
• 2003: FCR: 112 vs 88 MTR & IR combined, of which MTR had 29 & IR had 17.

From year 1 of this event American Full Contact Style Kickboxing has been the more popular of all 3 styles, all 5 years in a row. So what does this tell us? Is MuayThai and International Rules not as popular as some may want us all to believe?

As we took note of this, we realized there was a large missing void in kickboxing today. Pro opportunities is of course something that needs improvement but opportunities for the majority, the Full Contact Rule Style Fighters, are far less today than say 15 years ago. The question is WHY? The facts speak for themselves as noted above on this one so no sense in trying to argue it on the message board. Try as you may, the numbers speak for themselves. Yet the opinion of the fans watching our sport along with our potential sponsors are what we really need to know. What we can add to all this is that the spectator numbers on "Full Contact Rule" shows vs shows with "MuayThai and Leg Kicks" in 2003 were almost twice as large. Promoters such as Rob Zbilski, Ray Thompson, Jesse Finney, Russ O'Connell, Sky Drysdale, Tom Sullivan, Mike Carlson, Craig Smith and others can verify this. So does this mean the fans of "THIS" sport (Kickboxing) prefer to watch "Full contact style Fighting" over Leg Kicks and Knees? Maybe so. However, the vote is still out on this one because no matter who you talk to you will get a different answer.

We here at the IKF can name many exciting and well talked about fighters between the weight range of 153 (Light Middleweight) to 172 (Super Middleweight). Since K-1 has provided a venue for the leg kick fighters, what if the IKF started a venue for the Full Contact Rule fighters? A Series for the Full Contact Rule Middleweight fighters like the K-1 Max and a Full Contact Rule Heavyweight series like the Heavyweight K-1 Tournaments.

The question is though, "Should they be tournaments, or a series of regular 7-12 round fights?"

This is the question many are asking too. Some have said the K-1 "Tournaments" have destroyed the classic 10-12 round "World Title Kickboxing Bout". And in reality, it has. Not to slam K-1 here, it's just that K-1 has the money to pay these fighters well and you can't blame any fighter for going where the money is and you can't blame K-1 for offering it. Now if someone could offer a fighter a good purse for a 12 round title fight, thats another story. However, if such a fighter is under a K-1 contract, we won't see them in this mix at all. Again, you can't blame them for signing on the dotted line for the "Big Show" and you can't blame K-1 for paying the big bucks to get them there.

No doubt there is plenty of talent in the style of Full Contact Rules Single title fights would be great, if the money were there to have a mass amount of 12 Round World Title Fights. But for a moment, lets take a look at who all is out there in the Full Contact Rule division in the popular weight divisions, such as middleweights or heavyweights. Wouldn't it be great to see a Middleweight or Heavyweight Full Contact Rule tournament with a major purse at the end for the winner? The only question now would be, who would promote it?

Since K-1 is already providing a venue for those in Leg Kick & MuayThai, maybe someone can look into providing a venue for the Full Contact Rule Fighters. Maybe there needs to be a Pro FCR Heavyweight Tournament and a Pro FCR Middleweight tournament. Lets take a look at the 2 main rule styles and who would be considered as top contenders in these divisions. We have listed them below in no particular order.

TUESDAY, February 10th, 2004, AT 10:30 AM, PT

"Rumble In The Jungle"
Results From St Louis, Missouri, USA!
Full Story Later This Week

• IKF Kickboxing: Josh Fischer (Finneys) defeated Cory Cortrell (Columbia, MO) by unanimous decision: 30-27, 30-27,30-27
• ISCF MMA:John Manke (Vaghi) defeated Lazano Francis (Kansas City, KS) by rear naked choke.
• ISCF MMA:Dustin Severs (Vaghi) defeated Damion Smith (Kansas City, KS) by arm bar.
• Boxing: Brandon Bowie (Troy, MO) defeated Kenny Garcia (Granite City, IL) by unanimous decision: 29-28, 29-28, 30-27.
• ISCF MMA: Todd Feager (Finney's) defeated Leo Pla (Kansas City, KS) by unanimous decision: 30-27, 30-27, 30-27.
• IKF Kickboxing: Ivy David (East St. Louis, IL) defeated Rob Rickerman (Finney's) by decision. 29-28, 30-27, 29-28.
• ISCF MMA: Nick Zona (Finney's) defeated Colin Botbrick (Tulsa, OK) by TKO. Referee stopped fight in Round 2.
• IKF Kickboxing: Matt Taft (Finney's) and John Antigliado (Columbia, MO) fought to a draw. Antigliado missed kicks in the third round.
• ISCF MMA: Kevin Engel (Finney's) defeated Henry Ikuebuwa (Kansas City, KS) by unanimous decision: 30-27, 30-27, 30-27.

For information please contact the Finney Gym at (314) 351-5226, or email them at finneys@finneyskickboxing.com

MORE NEWS OF 2-10-04

From The Associated Press, February 10, 2004
Lewis'
Retirement Has Shook Things Up In Boxing...
To Begin With, Now...
George Foreman
Wants To Fight Again

Former heavyweight champion George Foreman (www.biggeorge.com & www.georgeforeman.com) whose last fight was seven years ago, said he is in training for a one-fight comeback. Foreman told Houston television station KRIV on Monday that he began training on Jan. 10, his 55th birthday. "I've been training and working out to get down to 225 pounds,'' he said. "If I do, I'm going to have one more boxing match.'' He said he has already lost 25 pounds.

Foreman has not fought since losing to Shannon Briggs in 1997. He said he knows people will make fun of him, but said he is used to it. "A lot of people say, `Boy, you must be out of your mind. Don't even try it," he said. "But I've heard that since I was 19 years old.'' Foreman career record is 76-5 with 68 knockouts.

And Sundays News Of...

From The Associated Press , Feb. 08, 2004:
Tyson Nearing Return To Boxing
Ex-manager returns, says fighter looking at May or June bout
Former heavyweight boxing champ Mike Tyson is mired in debt.

Mike Tyson may be getting ready to get back in the ring for the first time in more than a year. The manager Tyson fired just a few months ago says he is exploring a possible fight for May or June for the former heavyweight champion, who is mired in debt and in bankruptcy proceedings. Shelly Finkel said he and Tyson have reunited and that Tyson wants to fight again. Tyson hasn't fought since last February, when he stopped Clifford Etienne in 49 seconds. Showtime network executive Jay Larkin said he is in talks with Finkel for a Tyson fight on June 5. Tyson has fought mainly on Showtime in recent years. The June 5 date is the same one Oscar De La Hoya (www.oscardelahoya.com) said he will fight on in his next bout. De La Hoya fights on HBO. Finkel said the 37-year-old Tyson has been working out with a bodyguard, but does not have a trainer yet.

Sooooo...

Does this mean Tyson will not be fighting in a K-1 Bout? Many believed it was only a publicity stunt and was never going to happen anyway. But who will Tyson fight? Who will Foreman fight? Each other? Who knows.

It seems as of the last few years with some of these fight groups like K-1's promotion with Bob Sapp (Right), Toughman's "Anyone Can be a fighter" attitude, WWE's cursing to the crowd and flipping the finger on Christmas day at Prime Time on UPN, to all the TV Reality show craze, too many are now thinking...

"It's all about the $$ and the HYPE Baby! Not the Fight!"

Lets hope BOXING doesn't turn into a "Circus Act Joke" with so many options of big potential financial opportunitis facing them. Or has it already... Please... Someone give us some "REAL FIGHTERS and REAL FIGHTS!" And lets all hope it's KICKBOXING that will!

MONDAY, February 9th, 2004, AT 5:05 PM, PT

IKF Point Kickboxing
It's About Style
Results From Last Weekend's Event - Reported by PKB Director - Johnny Davis

Roseville, CA, USA: It is apparent to many who attend the IKF Point Kickboxing tournaments that these events are vital to the growth of the sport of Kickboxing. Unfortunately, more trainers and instructors have not caught on to the idea and are simply missing out on great opportunities to nurture and grow their fighters. Every event, I see a potential star in the making and get chills sometimes as I witness the enthusiasm from the onlookers. One thing that I'm noticing as I mention in a previous article is that more point karate practitioners are finding their way to the Point Kickboxing arena. Some are transitioning well while others come with the idea that the same point fighting style with hands to side will work in a point kickboxing tournament. Well, be warned, it won't!

You must be prepared to fight the "style" of the kickboxer. Guard up like a boxer and before and after the kicks. Its true… styles make fights. This weekend I saw those that have potential to be very good kickboxers but will have to make the adjustment for the fighting style in the gym first. They came out with good kicks but with guard down. Those that had competed in past Point Kickboxing tournaments simply wore the storm, kept the pressure on and later picked them apart with kickboxing techniques.

My advice for those that are thinking about the transition from point karate to Point Kickboxing should jump in now. The difference is becoming obvious from those that have competed in the initial event from one just joining. Those who started with Point Kickboxing trained for them and understand what it takes to win and are doing so consistently.

IKF Point Kickboxing celebrates its two-year anniversary in March and is catching on. The tournaments remain small and quaint with as little as 30 competitors and as many as 80 for a single event. This past weekend's event was again up against four point karate tournaments in the area and this had an effect on the size of the event but not on the action. I remain confident that IKF Point Kickboxing style tournaments will eventually stand strong to the traditional point karate tournament! Thanks to all the schools and Instructors who came out to support the event. Your vision is sincerely appreciated. We hope to see YOU at the next event in late April or May of this year. Please find below the result from this past weekend's event held at the Lord's Gym in Roseville, CA-USA (only division winners listed)

• PK 14- 8-10 year olds- Beginner
  1. 1st: Mateo Contartese, Rocklin, CA
  2. 2nd: Dax Mathews, Dixon, CA
  3. 3rd: Brandie Vizcarra, Dixon, CA
• PK 14B – 11-12 Girls Beginner
  1. 1st: Yesenia Torres, Dixon, CA
  2. 2nd: Jessica Cullen, Rocklin, CA
• PK 15A – 11-12 Boys - Beginner
  1. 1st: Evan Morell, Rocklin, CA
  2. 2nd: Jairo Gonzales, Dixon, CA
  3. 3rd: Sean Cronin, Rocklin, CA
• PK 15 B –11-12 Boys Advance
  1. 1st: Rich Davis, Rocklin, CA
  2. 2nd: Cameron Jones, Rocklin, CA
  3. 3rd: Britany Sunquist, Shingle Springs, CA
• PK 15 C –11-12 Girls- Advance
  1. 1st Place: Brittany Sunquist – Winner by default.
• PK 17 – 15- 17 years old
  1. 1st: Ricardo Loa, Antioch, CA
  2. 2nd: Clayton Christensen, Antioch, CA
  3. 3rd: Jon Andresen, Roseville, CA
• PK 5- Men Middle Weight
  1. 1st: Germain Gregory Ephraim, Sacramento, CA
  2. 2nd: Juan Carlos Vega, Dixon, CA

For more information see contact Johnny Davis at (916) 780-7483 or go to www.AKPromotions.org

SATURDAY, February 7th, 2004, AT 3:30 PM, PT

IKF Pro MTR World Champion
Matt Skelton
Wins In Boxing!

It seems like IKF Pro MTR Super Heavyweight World Champion Matt Skelton's pre fight prediction came true, "I'm 110% confident that I will win this fight." said Skelton. We just heard that Skelton (Right) defeated Julius Francis. by unanimous decision, 98-92 on all 3 judges cards in his 12th Pro Boxing bout. Reports have told us that Francis acted as though he didn't want to stand in and fight with Skelton and spent nearly all the bout with his head down with his hands and arms covering up.

This was Skelton's first win by decision since starting his career in Pro boxing only some 18 months ago. His record now improves to 12 and 0 with 11 KO's. Congratulations Matt! This is just another step to becoming a top 10 contender in Professional Boxings Super Heavyweight Crown!

FRIDAY, February 6th, 2004, AT 8:25 AM, PT

MORE BOXING...
IKF Pro MTR Super Heavyweight World Champion
Matt Skelton:
Faces His Toughest BOXING Test This Saturday Night!

IKF Pro MTR Super Heavyweight World Champion Matt Skelton has been a professional boxer for just over 18 months. During that time he has swept through the British heavyweight rankings leaving a trail of destruction in formulating a perfect 11-0 (11 KO's) record. On Saturday night, Skelton faces the toughest test when he defends his English heavyweight title against former British and Commonwealth champion, Julius Francis. The winner looks set to challenge the newly crowned British champion, Michael Sprott.

Skelton decided to switch to professional boxing as he entered his mid-thirties. He has defeated every opponent so far. In only his fourth contest, Skelton battered former world amateur silver medallist Jacklord Jacobs in four one sided rounds. Next up was former Russian champion Alexei Varakin, he was disposed of in two. Last September, Skelton captured the inaugural English heavyweight title with an impressive sixth round stoppage over former British champion Mike Holden. If they didn't already know it, this fight saw Skelton deliver a chilling reminder to his domestic rivals that he is for real.

Francis is a former British and Commonwealth heavyweight title holder. At age 39 he has lost his previous 5 fights which includes a 2nd round loss to Oleg Maskaev last time out. In 1999, Francis shocked British boxing by recording back-to-back wins over the then unbeaten prospects Pele Reid and Danny Williams. Francis' reward was a fight against Mike Tyson in Manchester in January 2000, but Tyson stopped him in two. In addition to Tyson, he has also shared a ring with John Ruiz and Vitali Klitschko amongst others. In more recent times, Francis stopped the unbeaten 17 fight record of Denmark's Steffen Nielsen in 6 rounds. Having being given plenty of time to prepare for this fight, Francis is adamant that Skelton will not put a stop to his career. Unsurprisingly, Skelton had other ideas. "I'm 110% confident that I will win this fight." said Skelton.
SKY Sports 1 will televise this Sports Network promoted show in Britain at 8pm (local time) on Saturday,

Vitali Klitschko
Reacts To Announcement That
Heavyweight Champ
Lennox Lewis
Is Retiring

Vitali Klitschko (Right hitting Lewis) had mixed emotions upon hearing the announcement today in London that heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis was retiring.

"I am sad to hear that Lennox Lewis has decided to retire, but I respect him for his decision," Klitschko's the WBC's No. 1 ranked contender, said. "Lennox was one of the greatest heavyweight champions of all time and I am very proud and honored to say that I was able to fight him. I know I had him on the ropes and almost beat him, but my cuts stopped me. On a personal level, I am disappointed, like the millions of boxing fans, that there will not be a rematch between Lennox and myself. I wish him all the best, however, in whatever he decides to do in the future. Lennox was a credit to the sport for many, many years and his presence will be missed. My goal now is to win the WBC heavyweight championship against whoever they want me to fight. The only other important thing is for me and my brother, Wladimir, to reach our goal of being heavyweight champions at the same time.''

Wladimir Klitschko is the WBO's Number 1 contender.

THURSDAY, February 5th, 2004, AT 5:10 PM, PT

Roseville's Lord's Gym
To Host First Kickboxing Event

Who: Lord's Gym a recreation and outreach facility located at 702 Atlantic Street in Roseville, CA joins A.K. Promotions (a company dedicated to promoting the sport of Kickboxing) to host an exciting evening of Kickboxing and Martial Arts entertainment! The fund-raiser event will be sponsored by Starstream Communications a Rocklin, CA, based Cable Company and Robeks Smoothies and Healthy Eats of Roseville and Rocklin.

What: IKF Amateur Kickboxing featuring Feet and Fists of Fury. It's an evening of full contact Amateur kickboxing that will showcase local competitors against opponents from across California. The event will also feature world-class martial arts demonstrations!

Where: The fights will be held in the Lord's Gym Arena at 712 Atlantic Street in Roseville, CA. The beautiful facility seats more than 1,000 spectators and is equipped with theatrical lighting and sound!

When: Friday, February 27th, 2004. Doors open at 7:PM - fights start at 8:PM, Tickets on sale now at www.highsierratickets.com or by calling (866) 463-8659 or pickup tickets at Postnet mail center at Sunset and Park in Rocklin 772-7766.
The event is under the authority of the California Athletic Commission and sanctioned by the International Kickboxing Federation, IKF. For more info contact Johnny Davis, President, AKPromotions "Dedicated to preserving the longevity of the sport" at (916) 780-7483 or go to www.AKPromotions.org

MORE NEWS OF 2-5-04

Fighter Insurance!

F. L. DEAN has informed us today that they will re-start coverage for all IKF & ISCF Sanctioned Promoters and their events at the end of this month. Since we have such an excellent "Safety" track record with NO CLAIMS, all IKF & ISCF Sanctioned Promoters will not have to pay a LARGE UP FRONT FEE of something like $2,500.00 for coverage. However, all other non IKF & ISCF sanctioned events WILL.

As far as the rates, we have been informed they will be "VERY" close to those "GREAT" rates we have been paying in the past. Yes, they will be a little higher, but very close to the fees noted on our Fighter Insurance which can be seen by clicking HERE. We here at the IKF & ISCF along with the staff at F. L. Dean Thank you for your patients and understanding during this time.

MORE NEWS OF 2-5-04

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT MADE TODAY
Regarding
IKF WORLD TITLE
Sanction Fees

• On Thursday, January 8th, 2004, we announced on the IKF News Page:
  • ALL promoters hosting an IKF Sanctioned Title "DEFENSE" will receive a 50% fee deduction off their IKF sanctioning fees.
    
    
• On Friday, January 9th, 2004 we announced on the IKF News Page:
  • ALL IKF *Pro "AND" *Amateur IKF Title bout Sanctioning fees will get an automatic 20% Discount from the listed fees as associated to the time-line of the promoters events.
  • For promoters doing more than 1 IKF Sanctioned Title bout, the IKF will give the promoter a 50% Discount on the second title of the same region.
    
    
• TODAY, February 5th, 2004 "IN ADDITION" to that noted above, we decided to "REDUCED" all IKF WORLD TITLE Sanctioning Fees to equal the IKF WORLD TITLE Sanctioning Fees in 2001.
  • PRO: $1,000.00 or only $500.00 when paid 45 days in advance.
  • AMATEUR: $800.00 or only $400.00 when paid 45 days in advance.
    
    

We hope these savings will Greatly Assist All Promoters
In making their events a Financial Success.
(*) These discounts are to all regions in the World except for the countries in the United Kingdom.

WEDNESDAY, February 4th, 2004, AT 8:40 PM, PT

"Rumble In The Jungle"
Still Headlining Fights 30 Years Later.

MORE NEWS OF 2-4-04

Life After
WINNING!
An Update On What IKF Champion
Jason Johnson
Has Been Doing Since Stepping Down From The Ring