SCF War in the Heartland "This One's Personal"

Elyria, Ohio

Elyrian Roll Arena

On Saturday Februrary 26th 2010 GR once again returned to fight in the SCF organization. It ended up being another great night for us. We took one proffessional and three amateurs to compete on this night. Long story short we ended up going 3-1 and here are our teams results. Paul Compton won the 145lb Pro SCF Title via TKO in round three after hitting his opponent with a beatiful head kick and following it up by dropping some bombs on his dazed opponent Matt Horning. Paul is one of our Pro's and took this fight against the much more experienced Horning who has over 40 proffesional fights under his belt. Now on to our ammy's where Tommy Judd made his debut with our team winning by TKO improving his record to 1-1, Dan Farnworth continued his winning ways by finishing his tough opponent with a beautiful traingle choke improving his record to 2-1, and last but not the least the ever so tough Ryan Lose fought a very tough opponent and ended up getting caught with a big punch and getting TKOed. Losses do happen even to skilled fighters. Ryan will bounce back and be a force to reckon with for sure. Thanks to all of the family, friends, of the fighters whos showed up and supported us and a BIG thanks to all of the GR students who came out and supported as well.

NAAFS "Full Contact Kickboxing"

GriffonRawl had the opportunity on Saturyday, October 3, 2009 to get back to its roots. Although Aaron "Juice" Veverka had his fight cancelled, Dan Farnworth and Landon Khakdoust represented the team in amateur kickboxing.

Landon was pitted against Chris Melilio from Evolve MMA at 170lbs. Before the fight began, Landon looked a bit disoriented after hitting the sauna. Although he was already at weight, he went to assist Dan with his final weight cut. Landon should take that approach going forward. From the opening bell to the final (unanimous) decision, Landon appeared in complete control, scoring several knockdowns which resulted in standing eight counts for Melilio. Melilio showed crazy heart and refused to stay down and kept fighting to the very end. For those who were there, Landon treated the crowd to a classic victory speech.

Lil' Dan Farnworth was taking on NAAFS veteran Druicer Dru Schottenheimer at 145lbs. In a classic moment before the fight, Dan and Dru said to one another, "Let's go put on the fight of the night"...and they did just that. A back and forth battle, with Dan's aggressiveness and Dru's heavy body kicks kept the crowd on the edge of their seats the entire time. Every time Dru threw a head kick, Dan answered with one of his own. The pace through all three rounds was amazing. Dan appeared to have control the first two rounds, but they were close to be sure. Late in the third, Dan took 2-3 heavy shots and appeared to be rocked, but kept firing back. Dan was awarded a split-decision win for his efforts and both men received a deserving standing ovation for their efforts.

For full results visit http://www.naafs.tv/

NAAFS "Caged Vengeance 6"

Columbus, Ohio

Lifestyles Pavilion

A picture is worth a thousand words and the photo of the victorious Donny 'Eagle Eye' Walker and his opponent, Tony Jayme, is no exception.

On Saturday, September 19, 2009, the two professional featherweights treated NAAFS fans to a fantastic three round fight. This back and forth fight was a true example of mixed martial arts where both fighters displayed their skills standing, getting or preventing a takedown and ground fighting. They both looked to be having an absolute blast and showed great class throughout the fight.

Donny showed his vastly improved takedown defense, grappling and landed a nice head kick in the third round. Depending on your vantage point, you could make a case for either fighter, but in the end, Donny was awarded a split-decision victory from the judges. Immediately following the final bell, the entire crowd rose to give both fighters a standing ovation. A possible fight of the year candidate, Walker / Jayme was one for the ages.

For complete results, visit http://www.naafs.tv/.

(Photo credit: Ryan Heckert.)

Jeff "The Snowman" Monson MMA Seminar

There have been many guests to grace the halls of GriffonRawl MMA Academy. Relson Gracie, Kit Cope and Sonny Marchette are just a few of the names that have held seminars at the academy. However, Team GriffonRawl, in conjunction with the NAAFS and Robert Donaghy, played host to one of the most recognizable names in MMA today. Jeff 'The Snowman' Monson was on site for a three hour MMA seminar on Thursday, August 27, 2009.

Jeff's credentials are impressive to say the least. A Division I college wrestler, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Blackbelt, a two-time ADCC champion, over 30 MMA wins and much more. On top of his athletic accomplishments, Jeff was approachable, friendly and had time for everyone.

He began the session sharing some of his favorite techniques for warm-ups, core strength training and stretching as well as the philosophy behind each. He moved on to takedowns, focusing on the basic fundamental understanding of each motion as he covered multiple attacks. Guard passing, half guard, ground and pound, hip movement and positioning were covered as the seminar continued. Of course, no seminar of Jeff's would be complete without his showing of the famous "Monson Choke" and all the details that make it work. Following the official seminar, many stayed afterwards to partake in full speed grappling drills, monitored and instructed by Jeff.

Its safe to say everyone enjoyed themselves and learned a great deal. Members of Evolution BJJ, Team T.A.P., Evolve MMA, Jamestown MMA and Team DNA were all in attendance.

Team GriffonRawl takes this opportunity to thank Greg Kalikas, Bob Donaghy, its guests, and of course "The Snowman" for an excellent seminar.

NAAFS "Rock N Rumble 3"

Cleveland, Ohio

Nautica Pavilion

On Saturday, August 29, 2009 five veterans of GriffonRawl were set for action at the third annual NAAFS Rock N Rumble. Brian McCroskey, Reggie Parks, and John Strmac were scheduled for amateur action, while AJ Pulling and Paul Compton were set for bouts in the pro ranks.

Brian McCroskey had trained extremely hard for his bout with Okey Lawrence of Non-Stop MMA. Having a bit of a reputation for pulling out of fights, Okey weighed in, but never returned to face McCroskey. Brian will no doubt be back sooner than later as he remains one of the top ranked welterweights in the NAAFS.

From the NAAFS website and additional comments, the remaining four recaps are below.

The first fight of the night pitted John Strmac making his 135lb debut against #1 ranked Sean Barnett of Peak Submission MMA. From naafs.tv: "It might not have been the most exciting fight on the card to some of the fans in attendance, but John Strmac (7-2) did what was necessary to pick up the win over Sean Barnett (11-4) in their National Amateur Bantamweight fight. Strmac used a smart strategy, by closing the gap and taking away Barnett's reach advantage."

Next up was Reggie Parks at welterweight versus Huey Contreras. "Reggie Parks (7-2) was making sure that his fight at Rock N Rumble wasn't going to end up in the hands of the judges this time and he did so in a very impressive manner, by defeating the previously unbeaten Huey Contreras (5-1) by TKO in just 35 seconds to make a very loud statement."

"Paul Compton (12-5) made a successful return to teh NAAFS, defeating Jason Carrier (11-12) by Triangle Choke submission at 1:17 of the second round. Compton has always been known for his stand up game and striking abilities, but as a professional he has dedicated more time in the gym to his submissions in order to become a better overall mixed martial artist."

"AJ Pulling (9-3) of Team GriffonRawl pulled off one of the biggest wins of his young career when he defeated Mickey Hughes (6-5) by Armbar submission in the first round of their Pro Series Welterweight contest. Pulling has always been an unorthodox fighter, willing to make the necessary adaptations to counter teh strengths of his opponent and he did that once again, resulting in yet another victory for the GriffonRawl fighter."

Overall the team went 4-0; 5-0 if you consider the McCroskey fight. The guys trained hard and it showed in the cage at Nautica on Saturday night.

(Special mention to Jessica Zomcik of Team DNA. Jessica cross trains with GriffonRawl and wrecked her opponent on the feet. However, she lost by arm bar in the second round of her womens matchup, but not without controversy. Upon reviewing the video, it was clear her opponent tapped out earlier in the round.)

UMMAXX 8 "All Heart, No Fear"

Akron, Ohio

John S. Knight Center

Reggie Parks, Landon Khakdoust and Donny Walker were in action on Saturday, August 15, 2009. Reggie and Landon were in MMA amateur action, while Donny was fighting at the professional level.

Landon Khakdoust (170lbs) wasted no time in showing why a drop from 185lbs to 170lbs was a good idea. Having taken nearly nine months off, Landon looked in mid-season form as he quickly disposed of John Keffer via TKO at a mere 1:07 of the very first round!

Reggie Parks (170lbs) was called out by Chris Melillo after Reggie defeated Chris earlier this year. Similiar to the result in April, Reggie controlled much of the action, executing heavy strikes and landing takedowns in each round. As was the result in April, Reggie scored a unanimous decision from the judges.

Donny 'Eagle Eye' Walker was in professional action against BJ Ferguson at 145lbs. Although a highly touted Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu purple belt, BJ came out throwing bombs. It was clear his plan was to brawl the technical Walker. As history has shown, Donny has a granite chin and has no problem getting hit as he keeps moving forward. The action was tight throughout the fight with Donny seemingly having the upper hand. As round three approached half way, Donny found himself in a scramble throwing submission attempts at the game Ferguson, until an arm bar found it's mark, forcing Ferguson to tap out at 2:04 of the third round.

Congratulations to all as the team was able to secure a 3-0 mark on the evening!

NAAFS "Rukus at the Riverside"

Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio

Riverside Outdoor Pavilion

Kevin Doyle, Dan Farnworth, Kevin Faraci and Ryan Lose (each fighting at 145lbs) were all in action on Saturday, August 8, 2009 for a NAAFS Club Series event in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. What follows is a recap of each fight.

Kevin Doyle was first up for the team taking on Joe Drotos of Team Twisted. Kevin took a big shot to start the fight and immediately went in for a takedown. He stayed patient in the guard picking his shots carefully, but throwing heavy body and head shots. Round one found Kevin eventually passing the guard and securing the mount, but the round ended. Round two again found Kevin in guard and once again he was able to pass and secure the mount. When Joe slightly raised his right arm to block a punch, Kevin was able to secure an arm triangle, dismounted, dropped his weight and sunk in the submission at 2:15 of round two earning him his first win in the cage.

Dan Farnworth was next up for the team. Dan fought off guillotine attempts in each round, as Brett Gruber of OhioBJJC continued to try to sink that submission. Dan's fight could've been a commerical for the academy showcasing an unreal demonstration of each class offered. He threw crisp hands, wicked leg kicks and showcased excellent head movement. His takedown defense was top knotch and hit a beautiful Judo hip toss in round two. He defended submission attempts, passed the guard and showed excellent control on the ground. This fight truly demonstrated what MIXED martial arts is all about. In the end, Dan was awarded a split decision victory, but the crowd afterwards, was left befuddled, wondering how it was not a unanimous victory.

Kevin Faraci was taking on Josh Kissinger of Instigator Fight Team. It was clear Josh wanted the fight on the ground and was able to score takedowns in each round. Kevin showed great heart and effort as he recovered guard, kept his composure and continued to throw strikes from his guard. In rounds two and three Kevin landed solid combinations on his feet, but again the takedowns from Kissinger were scored. Kevin gained valuable experience going the distance in defeat and will no doubt be back in the cage sooner than later.

In the co-main event, Ryan "The Loose Cannon" Lose added to his lore from War on the Shore on July 25th, where he wouldn't tap to an arm lock with :10 seconds remaining to take this fight on three days notice. And it wasn't just against anyone as he was up against #2 ranked Doug Kulbis of Evolve MMA. Having to cut nearly 18 pounds in three days, Ryan was in good spirits as fight time came. Ryan got the better of the standup, especially in rounds two and three, but Kulbis was able to score takedowns in each round, where he did a good job controlling Ryan, landing knees and strikes. Ryan was able to recover guard and threw a few submission attempts. In the end, Doug was awarded the decision and took time to thank Ryan for taking the fight on short notice and acknowledging what a war they just had.

Overall, it was a good night for the team. Everyone gained valuable experience and are better men for it. Congratulations go out to Kevin Doyle and Dan Farnworth for truly EARNING their first wins!

NAAFS on STO adds new broadcaster

The North American Allied Fight Series is broadcasted multiple times per week on Sports Time Ohio television. John Strmac replaced an ill Greg Kalikas at Fight Nite in the Flats V and took to the position well. In early July, NAAFS President Greg Kalikas announced John Strmac of Team GriffonRawl will be the new, full time "color man" for NAAFS broadcasts. While there will be a transition period, the team of Steve Hindman and John Strmac will be calling the action going forward. Greg will be a third commentator until John is fully comfortable taking direction from the producers and other STO personnel. War on the Shore 3 marked John's first "official" night of broadcasting.

NAAFS "War on the Shore 3"

Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ohio

The Cove

On saturday, July 25, 2009, Reggie Parks, Ryan Lose, and George Comer saw action at the NAAFS' third installment of "War on the Shore." What follows is a recap of each fight.

"Bonesaw" George Comer improved to 3-0 with a unanimous decision win over Andy Crabill (3-1) from Hess MMA. George took advantage of his wrestling base to secure takedowns in each round. His ever improving jiu-jitsu skills were also on display as he avoided triangle choke attempts in each round and not only stuffed the submission, but incorporated a guard pass each time. Vicious knees from side control and effective strikes coupled with outstanding ground control sums up the majority of this fight.

Ryan "The Loose Canon" Lose (4-1) bounced back from a previous loss with a dominate performance over Cory Ruthsatz (2-2) from Hess MMA. Ryan wanted to stand and stand badly in this fight. On numerous occassions he "shamed" his opponent up from guard. Landing nice jabs and combinations Ryan dominated the striking. He nearly had a referee stoppage at the end of round two as he unloaded a barrage from the mount position. Round three was again all Ryan, but with 10 seconds left Ryan gained legendary status to ride out a deep arm bar as the round ended. Saying later "A broken arm will heal, but a loss stays with you forever" Ryan showed exactly what he all about. He earned a 30-27 unanimous decision from the judges.

Reggie Parks was pitted against Graham Governor in the co-main event of the evening. Round one was extremely tight with Reggie getting the better of the striking and landing a takedowns. He fought off multiple guillotine choke attempts in a very, very close round one. Round 2 was tight until Reggie slipped on a sweat spot allowing Governor to gain the back mount position. Again Reggie defended the submission and reversed positions. Round three appeared to be in Reggies favor as he had Governor up against the cage landing heavy strikes in another action packed third round. The television announcers were left commentating it's anyone's fight. The judges scored the bout 29-28 Governor, 28-28 draw and an odd 30-27 Governor, giving Reggie his second loss. Afterwards, Reggie was in good spirits and commented "If I don't finish someone, I don't deserve the win." Reggie will be back...in three weeks as he's staying as busy as possible.

As a side note, Jessica Zomcik of Team DNA looked dominate as she dispatched of Janel Kraft in 26 seconds. Jessica cross trains with Team GriffonRawl's Muay Thai program. Her debut victory was one of the most impressive debuts (man or woman) in NAAFS history, complemented by the fact she has only been training since December of 2008.

Dan "The Beast" Severn MMA Seminar

Madison, Ohio

Five of us made the short journey over to the Madison Combined Martial Arts Association to attend the seminar with "The Beast". For those that don't know Dan Severn is a UFC Hall of Famer as he was the UFC 5 tournament champ, the Ultimate Ultimate 96 tournament champ, and the UFC 9 super fight champ. Dan is also one of a handful of guys in the world to have over 100 MMA bouts under his belt.

The five GR members that made the seminar were (from left to right) Ryan Barnard, Mike Lachina, Donny Walker, Jason Dent, and Jeff Lee. The seminar covered some clinching techniques, takedowns, and submissions. To wrap things up the seminar had a Q&A session and pictures with Dan.