NAAFS Combat Challenge 27

Combat Challenge 27 was more of a challenge for GR than expected.  Two GR wariors, Josh Belle and Jeff Offak were set to compete for the team.

Josh Belle was to take on an opponent with twice his experience, and he trained hard to prepare.  Frustratingly, his opponent did not show up to weigh in, and the promoter was unable to replace him on short notice.  It made for a short night for everyone.

Jeff Offak was fully prepared for his long delayed MMA debut.  He was supposed to fight at Combat Challenge 25, but his opponent no showed (is there a pattern here?).  Putting that behind him, Jeff spent the rest of 2013 working on his skills, and along the way taking third in the OGC, first in his division at GR’s IGC tournament, a first in gi, and a second in no-gi at the NAGA Pittsburgh and earning his blue belt.

He was very excited to finally compete for NAAFS, the excitement may have been more than he bargained for.  After the fight he said he felt he let his nerves get the better of him.  Jason Dent (who cornered with George Comer) commented that Jeff was second guessing himself from the start; starting moves then abandoning them before they could work.  Jeff struggled through the first round, and in the second got caught in a triangle and was unable to break free.  The good news is first time jitters are just that, and with the support of the GR family Jeff will have many more opportunities to fight.  Experience only makes you stronger.

Many thanks to everyone who went to Akron to support our fighters,

Written by: Bob Donaghy

Josh Belle Promoted to Blue Belt

On February 3rd, Jeff Starr pulled Josh Belle out of the lineup and promoted him to Blue Belt.   Josh has dedicated himself to his training and it shows in his skills and rapid advancement.  We wish more fighters would spend as much time on their BJJ skills.

Josh fought twice for GR in the cage so far, his first attempt was a war and could have went either way with the judges however  it was in his second  attempt that he made the official GR Fight Team with a beautifully executed triangle choke submission.  Josh is tentatively scheduled to fight again on the April 28th NAAFS card in Akron.

Be sure to congratulate Josh when you see him in class.

Written by:  Bob Donaghy

Josh Bell Makes the GriffonRawl Fight Team

With his win by armbar at the April 27^th NAAFS event Josh picks up his first official GR win and makes the Fight Team.  Josh has been showing up, and putting in extra time in preparation for this fight.  Dedication to training pays off.

Be sure to congratulate Josh on his achievement when you see him at the Academy.

Written by: Bob Donaghy

GR goes 2-1 at NAAFS Caged Combat 24

Three GR warriors made the trip to Akron on April 27th for NAAFS Caged Combat 24.

Congrats to GR Team Fighter Joe Callari on bring in yet another big win with his decision over Jonathan Flores

Also a BIG CONGRATS to Josh Belle on making our OFFICIAL FIGHT TEAM! Josh not only won but got the W in style as he finished his opponent via triangle choke in round 1.

Cody Lewis  may have lost the decision but his is a true warrior and fought from start to finish. Cody almost finished his opponent a half dozen times via armbar. It was a great night of action and learning for our ammy's. Thanks for the support of all those that made it down.

Everyone went in healthy and came out healthy. We picked up two W's as well. Pretty solid night for GR! We have an AWESOME TEAM of fighters, members, trainers, and fans.

Written by: Bob Donaghy