Rev Reigns Supreme at WWFC

Chuck "The Reverend" Grigsby emerged victorious at World War Fighting Championships 2 which took place at the 7 Flags Event Center in Clive, Iowa on April 9, 2011. Grigsby fought battle tested Sean Huffman, who has fought in over 32 MMA bouts, which includes career wins over solid veterans Mike Van Meer, John Halverson, Joey Clark and Dennis Reed.

The fight was Rev's first fight under 205 pounds, contested at a catch weight of 190 pounds. With summer approaching, expect to see Rev keeping a busy schedule while continuing his martial arts journey.

MMA Blaster: How did the fight play out?

Rev: The fight went like everyone told me it would go after I told them about the matchup. It was three rounds with a guy who would not quit and take everything I had. I thought he would go down with the shots he took. I give him a lot of credit for that, he is a warrior. Ironically, it was the perfect fight for me to shake some of the rust off and get some work in.

MMA Blaster: What was the result of the bout?

Ultimately, I won by unanimous decision. My corner men and teammates thought I could have finished the fight earlier. Obviously, I still have some more work to do to put together a complete fight, which I still haven’t done despite attaining my 21st career win.

(Grigsby v. Huffman)

MMA Blaster: How was your first cut to 185? When was the last time you weighed that much? Who helped you get there?

Rev: The weight cut was tough, but achievable. My opponent actually asked for it to be at a 190 catch weight and I felt really good on fight night. But, it was different from my first time that I cut from heavyweight to light heavyweight.

I think the last time I weighed 190, I was junior in high school, bananas. My nutrition and conditioning was guided by Kosama’s meal plan and their 10 week Complete Body Transformation along with my MMA training at New Beginnings MMA Program with my training partners and coaches Josh Neer, Miguel Rios, Elvis Mutapic, Kervin Veasly, Dwayne Cason, and Kisor. They really had me peaking for this fight.

(Rev getting down to 190)

MMA Blaster: What are your plans for the near future in MMA?

Rev: Currently, I have a verbal agreement for a fight with Superior Cage Combat in Vegas next month. Then possibly a fight in Canada in June. I am also tentatively open for the moment for the months after May, and we will get that all sorted out with my management, KO Dynasty this week. That’s the beauty of it for me right now, I am not locked in with an exclusive long term contract with any one promotion. I have more than one option on the table regarding what’s next.

MMA Blaster: Any shout outs? Sponsor mentions?

Rev: I would like to give a shout out to Sean Huffman for taking the fight, when many fighters said they would take the fight but didn’t, for whatever reasons they gave. I have a lot of respect for him. I would also like to thank my family, teammates, friends and fans for the support and sacrifices they made to help me be successful. It means the world to me. I can’t do it without cha! -Rev

(Rev's fight shirt from Respek Fightwear)

Exclusive Interview - Chuck Grigsby

Here is an exclusive interview with mixed martial artist Chuck "The Reverend" Grigsby. Chuck has been fighting professionally since 2005 for a variety of fight promotions, including the WEC, M-1, VFC and MCC.  After fighting professionally 26 times in four years, Grigsby took 2010 off while focusing on his family and coaching.

Chuck's next challenge awaits in the World War Fighting Championships fight promotion on April 9th. The card will be headlined by his training partner and UFC veteran Josh "The Dentist" Neer at the 7 Flags Event Center in Clive, Iowa.

MMA Blaster: You did not have a fight in 2010, why was that?

I took off for a few reasons, but the most important to me was to spend time with my family. I wasn't around much in 2009 because I was traveling internationally fighting for M-1. The second reason I took some time off was I felt like my performances weren’t at the dominanant standard I set for myself, despite winning 13 of my last 16 fights.

MMA Blaster: How does taking a year off help your fight career?

The time off was very beneficial, not only physically, but mentally as well. I am the type of fighter that likes to stay really busy once I’m in full fight mode. I don’t just train for the next fight then stop and start training again, I train all year long. With that being said, as a veteran in the sport, fighting all year long does take it's toll and you do get dinged up a bit.

(Rev securing a rear naked choke)

MMA Blaster: Were you focusing on coaching during your year off?  How did that help your game?

I focused on coaching with non-fighters as a kickboxing coach with a company called Kosama, you can visit at Kosama.com. Ironically, teaching and coaching at Kosama has been very rewarding and has motivated me more than training any other fighters.

MMA Blaster: Why have you decided to fight at 185 pounds? What mental challenges do you face in dropping a weight class?

I decided to fight at 185 because it has always been a fantasy of mine after I competed successfully at 205. The mental challenge involves staying disciplined with my diet and doing all things in moderation. It's tough because my frame isn't necessarily built to be that light. I do believe that I have the correct approach dropping weight in a healthy and safe way so I am strong and peaking cardio wise when I compete.

(Rev lets out a victory scream)

MMA Blaster: Are you focusing on being a student now? What sort of frame of mind does that put you into?

Yes, definitely! I am known for my stand-up skills and sometimes people who want to improve in that area seek me out for coaching. Now, I am the student in all areas. I am focused on absorbing everything from anyone who has something to offer and I think it will show in the upcoming year.


MMA Blaster: I've heard you have a fight scheduled for April 9th? What promotion will that be for?

That will be World War Fighting Championships based out of Des Moines, Iowa. This fight is honestly more of an experiment to see if all the things I am training so hard on work. Also to see if competing at 185 is something I can be successful at.

MMA Blaster: What is it like fighting in your hometown?

I’m actually from Missouri, the "Show Me State," so Des Moines is not actually my hometown, but I have been here for most of my life. I enjoy fighting in Des Moines because of the support I get from my family and friends in the crowd. It really elevates my training and performance on fight night.

(Rev going to the body)

MMA Blaster: What challenges are you looking forward to in your upcoming fight?

I’m a seasoned veteran with 26 fights, but this is a new weight class. The type of fighters I will be facing now are quicker, more technical, and possibly even more athletic. It is all new. I compare it to coming down from fighting in the Heavyweight division to Light Heavyweight. Everything seemed so much faster.

MMA Blaster: Who is helping you get ready for the fight? Who are you training with?

The usual suspects, haha, Kervin Veasly, Josh Neer, Anothony Porcelli, Pete Peterson, Cardell James, Paul Bird and all of my fight partners and teammates who come in to get better everyday in practice

MMA Blaster: What are your current goals for your fighting career? Where will you be in a year?

My goal is the same as it always has been, but in a new weight class. That is to dominate and smash out in this this weight division.

(Rev with the M-1 2nd Place Cup, 16 teams competed)

MMA Blaster: Have you thought about returning to M-1 competition? Other international fights?

I won't even think about any of that until I see what happens in this fight in April. All of the other stuff will be what it will be when that time comes. I have learned in this sport that you can only control, or know what is going to happen, one day at a time.

MMA Blaster: Any shout-outs?

Big shout-out to G-unit, and all the peeps who have faith and love for me. I wouldn’t be able to do this without you. Thank you!

(Rev getting down to 185)

MMA Blaster Turns 3!

Thanks everyone for reading! Three years down and plenty more to go. Please bookmark the site, follow and comment.

I want to especially thank fighters Shah Bobonis, Chuck Grigsby, Muhsin Cobbrey, TJ O'Brien, Gerald Harris, Douglas Lima, Larry Landry and Jason Nicholson for interviews and feature stories. If you are a pro fighter looking for some publicity, feel free to email me at mmablaster@gmail.com or hit me up on facebook/mmablaster.

MMA Blaster's top 20 cities for November 2009 through November 2010:

1. London, UK
2. New York, USA
3. Chicago, USA
4. Los Angeles, USA
5. Sydney, AUS
6. Melbourne, AUS
7. San Francisco, USA
8. Houston, USA
9. Toronto, CAN
10. Hamburg, GER
11. Dublin, IRE
12. Manila, PHIL
13. San Diego, USA
14. Las Vegas, USA
15. Los Angeles, USA
16. Calgary, CAN
17. Manchester, UK
18. Honolulu, USA
19. Vancouver, USA
20. Des Moines, USA

The Rev Back From Russia

I was able to catch up with Midwest Cage Championship and Victory Cage Championship's 205 pound champ Chuck "The Reverend" Grigsby as he returned from his trip to St. Petersburg, Russia.

Chuck took part in this season's M-1 Challenge which can be seen on HDNet. He had a good run on Team USA East, traveling to the Bulgaria, Netherlands and Russia. In between his M-1 run, Rev also was able to defend his VFC belt in front of his home crowd in Des Moines, Iowa. Here is the interview:

MMA Blaster: Rev, since we last talked you have fought twice, how did your VFC title defense against Demetrius Richards go?

I won, but I really didn’t have my best performance. To be honest with you, and not to make any excuses, but I had an injury going in to the fight. It was my 2nd title defense for VFC and I really did not want to pull out at the last minute.

Looking back, I really loved the challenge of overcoming the adversity even though I should have probably pulled out. I basically only had one leg for the fight, and he forced me to find another way to win than what I am accustom to.

(Rev landing a left hand)

MMA Blaster: What is it like defending your belts in Iowa in front of your home crowd?

I’ve always felt that you need to take care of business in your own backyard before you can go out an try run the streets. I've held the VFC and MFC belts since 2007, and defended each of them twice. VFC treats me well, as well as MCC. Both organizations have supported my international ventures this year.

When I fight at home, I feel like I'm more under the microscope and feel as if I need to prove something to the people who have come out to support me. The pressure forces me to stay focused on the task at hand, so I don’t let anyone down. It’s a positive thing.

MMA Blaster: What was your game plan going into the fight?

Honestly, I wanted to get in and get out with a win as fast as I could. I had a fight lined up in Russia two weeks following. My opponent had other plans, and it ended up taking me over two rounds to finish the fight. I know how hungry fighters can be when they get a chance to fight for their first belt. I expect them to be in the best shape of their life, focused and determined when they have a fight with me.

MMA Blaster: What occurred in your last fight against Besiki Gerenava in M-1? I heard there was some controversy surrounding the fight, can you talk about that?

It was a split decision loss that myself, the media, corner, and the Russian crowd all disagreed with. I knew going into the fight that I needed to finish by submission, KO or referee stoppage in order to win. This is the international scene, and if you don’t do that, you have to expect they are going to give a decision to their countryman.

It could have been Finland, Spain, Germany, or Japan, any place in a country that is not your own you have to win with a stoppage. My only mistake other than not getting a stop, is that he may have won the first round of the three that took place. He was a good fighter, and I take responsibility for the loss.

(Rev lands a right hand)

MMA Blaster: What are your thoughts on the team taking 2nd place in the M-1 Challenge?

Honestly, it was a win win situation after making the semi finals. Nobody, except our team, believed that we would be one of the last two teams standing out of the 16 countries that participated in this awesome tournament. Winning silver instead of gold stung a little, but overall it was probably one of my biggest accomplishments as fighter, and I cherish the opportunity I had to represent our country.

(Team USA East)

MMA Blaster: How often do you plan on fighting in 2010?

Depends on who and where, I think. Fighting overseas exposed me to different skills and techniques I'm planning on incorporating into my skill-set. It will take some time to train to become proficient and effective with these new skills.

MMA Blaster: What organizations do you plan to fight in for 2009? Will you be fighting oversees? Europe? Japan? USA? Will you be defending any of your belts in Iowa?

I really can't speak specifically on that right now because my manager Reed Wallace is working on the international and national opportunities. But locally, I have another title defense for MCC that I wanna do. They have someone holding an interim belt while I have been away, so I would like to clear that up. Tentatively I have also talked to VFC about fighting for another title at 185. There is plenty of work out there for me if the contract is right.

(Rev and Reed Wallace)

MMA Blaster: Any shout outs?

I wanna thank my family: Xander, Sara, Berniece, Jaunette, Frank, Jan, and Carrie. They continue to be my core and foundation for success. My manager Reed Wallace of White Choclate Management. M-1 Global, Midwest Cage Championships, Victory Fighting Championships and all the wonderful people who are involved in making the shows tick. Big thanks to Des Moines Mixed Martial Arts, Des Moines Jujitsu Academy and Round Kick Gym.

Also wanna thank my inner circle of friends and training partners for helping me with my preparation and performance which include Anthony Porcelli, Josh Neer, Dwayne Cason, Kervin Veasly, Cardell James, Kevin Burns, Pete Peterson, Ed Spitzer, Chris David, Jeremy Stephens and Mike Ayers. Thanks to Joe at MMA Blaster for your time and support!

The wonderful fans that have followed and continue to follow my career. Thanks for being there with me. In this business I have learned there are only a few that truly understand loyalty, commitment and support with the ups and downs of the fight game. I couldn't do it without ya! Dreams Goals and Dedication.

Also like to thank my main sponsors, Joe Abbott of KOBC clothing, Joe Spenceri of Animal Instinct, Sophi Blocker of Rumors Tattoo and the 515.

Exclusive Interview - The Reverend

In his past three fights, Chuck "The Reverend" Grigsby has been traveling across the globe fighting for the M-1: Challenge promotion. I was able to catch up with and ask some questions about his recent mixed martial arts bouts.

MMA Blaster: Where are you training right now?

I primarily train at the Des Moines Mixed Martial Arts Academy run by Anthony Porcelli. I train my kickboxing with Kevin Veasly and Cardell James, and when I have the opportunity, I like to also work on my Jiu Jitsu at Des Moines Jiu Jitsu Academy. I train with some of the best submission wrestlers and Jiu Jitsu guys in Iowa.

MMA Blaster: Since the last time we talked, you defeated Rob MacDonald from The Ultimate Fighter show, how did that fight play out?

It was a real quick fight. I think felt like it was over in 7 seconds and I enjoyed that. I am very fortunate to get a win in the manner that I did, you don’t get many fights like that.

MMA Blaster: What led you to the M-1 promotion?

I have always wanted to fight internationally. I think that is the best option for me and my style of fighting. I played pro basketball overseas after college for a few seasons. My manager Reed Wallace has many connections internationally and M-1 was the best option.

MMA Blaster: What was it like fighting in Bulgaria for your first M-1 fight?

Bulgaria was wild! There were so many things outside of the actual fight that I had to consider, but outside of that extra stuff, I just assumed it would be like any other fight. I loved the experience, especially getting a win over an Olympic level wrestler and fighter. They displayed good sportsmanship and were good to us, despite our team shutting them out.

MMA Blaster: How did the fight play out against Atanas Dzhambazov? What type of fighting background did he have?

His style was Sambo. He was an extremely strong individual and gave me some unique challenges during the fight. It didn’t help that I pulled my hamstring in the first 30 seconds of the fight either. He was really tough, it was very good win for me.

MMA Blaster: What are the fans like in the M-1 events?

They are different in each different country. In Bulgaria they were much like American fans being rowdy and into the fights. In Holland the fans were very laid back and nonchalant, but you can tell they were well educated in MMA. The Russian fans were really into it and love their Russian fighters, it is a tough team to fight against.

MMA Blaster: What is it like fighting on Team USA East?

I am very proud to be a part of the championship team, it was a lot of work and we were never considered the favorites. That made it even that much more satisfying. I enjoyed seeing fighters from all over the country, with all the different skill sets and styles coming together for one common goal, Team USA East winning. The bond with your teammates is much like the bonds you develop with the guys you train with regularly. The experience of traveling out of the country to fight and going to the finals was awesome. M-1 is like the World Cup or Olympics of MMA.

(Team USA East Pictured)

MMA Blaster: In your second fight you fought at heavyweight right? What happened in the fight with Jessie Gibbs? How much weight were you giving up?

Yes, that fight was at heavyweight. He was too big for me honestly. I think he had like 40 pounds on me. I won’t fight at HW again unless it a opponent I can’t turn down. If anything I might look at the 185 division, but I doubt that. Weight cutting can be hard and I didn’t want it to be an issue. Traveling for that many hours while trying to cut weight can be really brutal if you don't have an organized weight cutting system.

MMA Blaster: How was the fight against Spencer Hooker? Did you look at any of his tape, I saw he has some quality victories?

He is probably the most skilled heavyweight in the M-1 Challenge. That is why I fought him because I wanted to go against the grain and challenge myself. It was a good fight and very technical. I think if we were fighting in neutral territory the fight would have gone into the 3rd round where I would have had another round to break him down, or visa versa. There was no quitting in that fight.

I knew he was a Jujitsu guy, so I knew I had the advantage in stand-up. It seems that most fighters see me a pure stand-up fighter, so they think I’m a good match up for them if they are a wrestler or submission fighter. He was tough and had no quit in him. He took some really good shots from me and was still standing, not many guys can say that. It was awesome fight.

MMA Blaster: What was it like fighting in Russia?

The Russian people were really open to Americans and our culture. Americans have a lot of misconceptions about the Russians. I would like to take my family over to visit someday.

MMA Blaster: What sort of preparations do you have to make before fighting oversees?

I have to be literally fight ready on the day I leave the United States in order to combat the hurdles of cutting weight and training. Usually the time I am overseas I focus on doing light cardio and technique and pray that weigh-in's come faster than they ever do!

MMA Blaster: Any shout outs?

I am able to unveil my family who are my heart and soul: Xander, Sara, Berniece, Jaunette, Carrie, Mannie and all of the rest of the crew. Also want to say thanks to my manager Reed Wallace of White Chocolate Management, training partners and coaches. I couldn’t do it without cha!

MMA Blaster: Sponsor mentions?

KOBC clothing apparel http://www.kobc.tv/, Animal Instinct clothing apparel www.myspace.com/luckyhands, Cup O' Kyptonite Coffee and Comics http://www.cupokryptonite.com/, and Jordan Creek Chiropractic. All those guys have been great to me.

(Rev's Bling)

*You can catch the M-1 Challenge on HDNet!
*Visit past articles on Rev by clicking the label below.

2008 Exclusives

Here are some exclusive intervies from 2008.

Chuck Grigsby
http://mmablaster.blogspot.com/2007/12/dreams-goals-dedication-chuck-reverend.html

Muhsin Corbbrey
http://mmablaster.blogspot.com/2008/10/spectacular-muhsin-corbbrey.html

Jason Nicholson
http://mmablaster.blogspot.com/2008/10/never-stop-fighting-jason-nicholson.html

Shah Bobonis
http://mmablaster.blogspot.com/2008/10/hollywood-in-hood.html

Larry Landry
http://mmablaster.blogspot.com/2008/11/lethal-leprechaun-larry-landry.html

Gerald Harris
http://mmablaster.blogspot.com/2009/03/gerald-harris-exclusive-interview.html

http://mmablaster.blogspot.com/2008/07/gerald-harris-update.html

TJ O'Brien and Jesse Lund
http://mmablaster.blogspot.com/2008/01/team-revolutions-tj-obrien-and-jesse.html

Douglas Lima
http://mmablaster.blogspot.com/2008/05/aggressor-douglas-lima.html

The Reverend Looking For a Fight

Interview by MMA Blaster

I was able to catch up with The Reverend Chuck Grigsby while snowed in yesterday. As his contract with his WEC contract dissolved, Rev is actively looking for fights. He recently fought and won at MCC 17 in Des Moines, Iowa.

MMA Blaster- How did your fight go on November 26th?

My fight went well. My opponent changed at the last second, he was a former collegiate wrestler and now wrestling coach who was undefeated. At the time he was 6-0. I ended the fight with a KO in the first round, but they listed it as TKO because I didn’t know he was out for sure, and the ref pulled me off of him.

MMA Blaster- Did you take that fight at heavyweight?

No, at least this local promotion I fought for told me that they weren’t interested in having me fight the big guys because the talent pool is too lean. I'm not really interested in fighting at heavyweight unless its really worth my while.

MMA Blaster- Was that for a championship belt?

My last fight was my second title defense for MCC. Does that mean I'm undisputed? Tentatively I'm supposed to defend my other title late February but the contract and details still have to be worked out.

MMA Blaster- What is your MMA record now? How many of those wins came from a TKO or KO?

16 wins 4 losses, some databases have one or two fights missing but I think as far as KO and TKO that’s 11 or 12 of them.

MMA Blaster- Do you consider yourself a free agent?

Yeah, I'm free to fight anywhere I imagine. People, skeptics, fans were wondering what was up after my loss in June and the WEC getting rid of my weight class. I just fought and won an I'm ready to bang whoever and whenever my training and availability allows. I'm full throttle right now, I don’t care if I fight in front of 10 people or 10,000. Before my June fight I was on the shelf for about 7 months with getting the opportunity and then not being allowed to take any fights. I think that hurt me the most as far as my performance, so I just wanna stay active at least every other month as long as I'm healthy.

MMA Blaster- When is your next scheduled fight?

I have a possible deal set up with Legends Fighting Championship but contract and opponent is still in the works, same with my title defense, Victory Fighting Championship. I believe those will take place in the next couple of months or so.

MMA Blaster- Do you want to get a fight before that?

I want to have a fight in January, but now it the end of December so February would be the most realistic at this point.

MMA Blaster- Would you be willing to fight in the Chicagoland area?

I'll fight in Chi-Town to Japan to be honest.

MMA Blaster- You would be willing to fight in Japan?

Yeah, I've traveled all over the world but haven’t been to Japan yet. That would be hot. I was cornering my friend, Razak Al-Hassan, for UFC Fight For The Troops and Yoshida was fighting. I like his intensity and style. Even though he came up short that night, it would cool to train with or fight some guys over there.

MMA Blaster- Have you seen any fights that have taken place in Japan? What do you think of the fans over there?

The fans over there want to be entertained and seem to careless about the politics of the fight game. I think my style of stand-up is a good match up cosmetically for Japan, America, Russia, anywhere people love a fighter who finish fights.

MMA Blaster- How has your training been going since your November fight?

Very well. Not having to run my own gym has allowed me to concentrate on myself. I'm in the lane to be more successful.

MMA Blaster- Anything else to add?

If your interested or have additional questions or a potential fight you can reach me on my myspace fan site myspace.com/godsson60 or email chas_bo2005@yahoo.com (just title it “FIGHTNIGHT” so I don’t delete it).


(Chuck "The Reverend" Grigsby pictured)

Questions With The Reverend

MMA Blaster was happy to touch base with mixed martial artist Chuck "The Reverend" Grigsby. Chuck will be defending his MCC title belt on Wednesday, November 26th against Travis "Ironman" Fulton. MCC 17: Thanksgiving Showdown will take place at Val Air Ballroom in West Des Moines.

MMA Blaster: Rev, how's it going? Since your fight in June, how has your training changed?

Rev: First off I would like to thank you for the opportunity being on such a great website and the positive exposure MMA Blaster has given me throughout my career. I think it is one the best media outlets in the fight game.

My training has changed dramatically since I put my gym (Team Revolution) on hold and began to fully focus on myself and my training. This is the first time in my career that I have been able to walk in a gym and just be the student with no coaching or training responsibilities. It pretty ironic since I've been doing this sport since 2004, I'm surprised I've made this far to be honest, in the short time that I have been training for this fight I have seen significant improvements in all areas. I was fortunate enough to be allowed to train with Miletich Fighting Systems for about 4 or 5 weeks immediately after my last fight and soaked up as much knowledge from Pat Miltich and the guys who trained with me.

Special shout out to Josh Neer and Mike C. After the birth of my son I wasn’t able to maintain the three hour one way trip to train and now exclusively train in Des Moines at West Boxing and Central Iowa Mixed Martial Arts.

MMA Blaster: What are the biggest improvements that you have made in your fight skills since June?

Rev: I think my biggest improvement since my last fight has been mental toughness. Mitich, West Side Boxing, and Central Mixed Martial Arts have took the gloves off and really put me through a tough tough camp. People that know me know that I don’t train just for one fight, I train for multiple fights so I can obtain multiple wins and build win streaks.

MMA Blaster: What do you know about Travis Fulton? Any comments on the fight?

Rev: All I know about my opponent is that he is very experienced and a tough hard nose type guy who likes to get down and grind out fights. That's just the type of fighter I need to face to begin another chapter in the fight game. I think its good match up stylistically for the fans because he may just try to stand a little bit. I expect a very physical fight.

MMA Blaster: How has parenthood treated you? How has it changed your outlook on life and fighting?

Rev: My outlook has definitely changed as a fighter with birth of my son Xander, he and my wife have been the strength and cornerstone of my strength and purpose throughout times of adversity

MMA Blaster: What are your goals for 2009?

Rev: My goals for 09' are to win, win, win! I'm a “free agent” now that the WEC has dropped my weight class, 205. I can fight anywhere at anytime, so I'll do that, but first thing first, November 26th when I defend one of my titles for the second time with Midwest Cage Championships here in Des Moines. I'm excited to fight for MCC again. They are a great promotion that has awesome fans who understand and respect the sport.




(Pictured: Chuck "The Reverend" Grigsby")

*MMA Blaster would like to thank Rev for his time and kind words.
*Tickets for MCC: 17 can be purchased at Ticketmaster, the Val Air box office and http://www.midwestcagechampionship.com/
*Mike C. is Mike Ciesnolevicz, a former IFL fighter with notable wins over Aaron Stark, Alex Schoenauer and Brent Beauparlant.
*Josh Neer has fought 7 times in the UFC with wins over Din Thomas, Joe Stevenson and Melvin Guillard.

MCC 17 RESULTS

Ryan Langmaid def. Shane Mosby Sub (Rear Naked Choke) R1, 3:24
Heath Johnson def. Josh Christenson Sub (Verbal) R2, 3:49
Jesse Lund def. Phil Dawes Sub (Rear Naked Choke) R1, 2:16
TJ O'Brien def. Will Shutt Sub (Triangle Choke) R2, 1:43
Zak Cummings def. Cole Jennet Sub (Neck Crank) R1, 2:11
Chuck Grigsby def. Chad Vance TKO R1, 2:59

Chuck "The Reverend" Grigsby Update

After Rev's debut in the WEC on June 1st, he has decided to train under Pat Miletich. We can look forward to seeing him fighting in a few months. MMA Blaster wishes Rev the best, and looks forward to seeing him fight again.


*Live the dream! Better, faster, stronger!

WEC 34 Results

WEC 34 did not disappoint as it was clearly a better event than Elite XC on CBS. The title fights of Faber v. Pulver and Torres v. Maeda lived up to expectations and were exciting fights.

Urijah Faber def. Jens Pulver via unanimous decision- Faber and Pulver boxed and threw vicious combinations throughout the fast paced fight. For a five round decision, it really didn't get slow. Pulver absorbed most of the damage eating punches standing and eventually on the ground. Both Faber and Pulver had gas in their tanks for the duration of the bout, and left it all on the line. Faber took the decision (50-44 twice and 50-45).
*MMA Blaster pollsters were correct 11-4


Miguel Torres def. Yoshiro Maeda via TKO, R3, 5:00- Torres and Maeda put on quite a show for the crowd as well. Both stood and traded punches and kicks. Torres was split open on one of the first punches thrown by Maeda in the first round. The mullet wearing Torres didn't let the blood get him down. When Torres was taken down, he immediately looked for submissions and battered Maeda, who did nothing from top position. An interesting sequence that hasn't been talked about was the toe hold Maeda got. Immediately, Torres started striking Maeda from his opposite leg, and then got his own toe-hold on Maeda. A double toe-hold so to speak. At the end of the third, Maeda had taken too much punishment to his left eye, which was swollen shut and Herb Dean stopped the fight. A good stoppage at the end of the round, and Torres defends the belt.

Mark Munoz def. Chuck Grigsby via TKO (strikes)- R1, 4:15- Grigsby came out throwing his jab attempting to use his significant reach advantage. After Grigsby connected on an uppercut, Munoz decided to get the fight to the ground. After stuffing one takedown, Munoz kept at it, eventually getting the fight to the floor. With Grigsby on his back, Munoz was able to throw a leg and land a punches forcing a referee stoppage win for Munoz.

Rob McCullough def. Kenneth Alexander via split decision- This fight was basically three rounds of circling and attempted takedowns. Not much damage was done by either fighter and could have been called a draw.

Donald Cerrone def. Danny Castillo via submission (armbar)- R1, 0:30- Despite his Muay Thai background, Cerrone has really started to use his submission game to perfection. He was successful again, sinking in a nasty armbar from a triangle to seal the win. It was unclear whether Castillo had tapped at first, and it was later revealed that the submission was verbal.

Mike Thomas Brown def Jeff Curran via unanimous dec
Will Ribeiro def Chase Beebe via split dec
Tim McKenzie def Jeremy Lang via sub (Triangle Choke) R3, 0:40
Alex Serdyukov def Luis Sapo via TKO (No Answer) R1, 5:00
Jose Aldo def Alexandre Franca Nogueira via TKO (strikes) R2, 3:22
Dominic Cruz def Charlie Valencia via unanimous dec

Dreams, Goals, Dedication - Charles "the Reverend" Grigsby

In Depth Exclusive on Mixed Martial Artist Charles "the Reverend" Grigsby, by Joe Egloff

Charles "the Reverend" Grigsby of Team Revolution is an up and coming mixed martial artist fighting out of Des Moines, Iowa. He has amassed a 15-3 record since his debut in 2005 and has been particularly busy in 2007, fighting nine times. Watching the highlight reel below you can see the tremendous potential that "The Reverend" possesses. Future opponents better look out for the Reverend's right hand and right knee because they have the type of power that can put someone to sleep in a heartbeat.

Charles Grigsby grew up in Kansas City, Missouri with his sister, Juanette, and mom, Bernice. As a single Mother, Bernice did a great job raising Charles and his sister. Even with a good situation inside the home, the environment outside was a different story. There were few opportunities in the projects of Kansas City and the climate was that of drugs, guns, crime, and gangs. Despite that environment, Charles persevered and protected younger kids in his neighborhood. He apparently caught a few beatings from that, but it just helped mold him into the person he is today. Charles knew at an early age that he had to stand up for himself, his sister and his mother.

Bernice eventually moved the family to Iowa, where Charles and Juanette were able to get a better education. That education led Charles to Grand View College in Des Moines where he excelled on the basketball team. Charles was offered to to play professionally, and jumped at the chance playing first playing in Brazil, and then in Spain. After three years oversees Charles knew he was meant to do something else with his life and hung up his shoes.

Charles entered the mixed martial arts world professionally in 2005. Describing his early days, Charles said, "I was around 243 pounds so I pretty much used all power back then. I was a heavyweight, and if I didn't knock you out or get knocked out in the first few minutes then it was any one's ball game." Even with relative inexperience, Charles started his career off with a bang winning his first seven fights, most by KO, over the course of May 2005 until August of 2006. Unfortunately, the Reverend was humbled in his next three heavyweight fights, losing against quality veteran opponents with wrestling backgrounds. When discussing the losses Charles said, "I learned that your never as good as you think you are." The Reverend knew he needed to expand his game.

After the setback, the Reverend decided to drop down to 205 pounds, light heavyweight, and has not looked back since, winning eight fights in a row. The weight drop left Charles a more conditioned and technical fighter. This year has also seen the Reverend develop a stronger skill set in his stand-up and ground game. The Reverend has changed from his one dimensional stand and trade days as a heavyweight and is a better fighter for it. At 6'6" he is taller and stronger that most of his opponents and uses his size and reach to his advantage.

When asked about his nickname Charles explained that "the Reverend" nickname came about because he practices what he preaches. The philosophy preached is that of Ginsu, the fighting style employed by the Revered. When asked about Ginsu, Charles said the following, "Ginsu represents being sharp, focused and conditioned."

Currently, Charles "the Reverend" Grigsby is the light heavyweight champion for Victory Fighting Championship and the Midwest Cage Championships promotions in Iowa. When asked about the eight fight win streak Charles said, "every single fight I'm doing new things and dealing with adversity better." When asked about the nine fights in 2007 Charles said that, "I was lucky that I stayed healthy and was able to finish my fights without taking damage." He certainly has made a statement to everyone in the 205 division that he will be a big problem for years to come.

When discussing his current fight plans Charles said, "Well, I've got the call, and by the time people see this I'll be contracted for a fight in spring of 08' in Vegas." During our conversation, Chuck described that he will match up well with his opponent and it will be a good fight for TV. I asked what organization he would be fighting under and he said that it will be either in the WEC or UFC, but the terms haven't been completely finalized. That said, Charles will never be happy about just getting on the big stage, he wants the belt. Even so, Charles doesn't need stardom and wants to be the best in his own mind.

When I asked if the Reverend wanted to send a shout out to anyone, he responded, "I would like to thank everyone that was there from the get go. I have seen alot of people come and go who have said they were down for me and believed in me - but the ones who have endured (and you know who you are) I could have never done this without you- Dreams, Goals, Dedication."





*Big Thanks to the Rev for doing the interview.

WEC 34 Preview

WEC 34 bouts as listed on wec.tv. WEC 34 takes place in Las Vegas on June 1st.

FW (145) Championship- Urijah Faber (20-1) vs. Jens Pulver (22-8)- This should be an absolute war between two of the best at 145. Faber has rattled off 12 straight wins including 5 in the WEC. Pulver has yet to lose at 145 and is considered a legend of sport. Pulver will most likely try to keep the bout standing, and Faber will try for a takedown to ground and pound. It will be exciting.

BW (135) Championship- Miguel Torres (33-1) vs. Yoshiro Maeda (22-4)- Torres has been on fire at 135, after competing mainly at heavier weights. Torres have 14 or so wins in a row, depending on what database you look at. Torres looked fast and powerful in his recent destruction of Chase Beebe. Pancrase veteren Maeda won his only fight in the WEC with a vicious body kick to Charlie Valencia.

Mark Munoz (3-0) vs. Chuck Grigsby (15-3)- Both fighters are making their much anticipated debut's in the WEC. Grigsby at 6'6" is a powerful striker who will have a reach advantage. Look for Grigsby to try to keep the fight standing and land some heavy right hands and knees. Munoz is a decorated NCAA wrestler, and will probably go for the takedown. For a full length exclusive on Grigsby, scroll down.

Jeff Curran (31-9) vs. Mike Brown (16-4)
Rob McCullough (15-3) vs. Kenneth Alexander (5-2)
Jose Aldo (10-1) vs. Alexandre Franca Nogueira (13-4)
Danny Castillo (5-0) vs. Donald Cerrone (7-0)
Alex Serdyukov (8-4) vs. Luis Sapo (6-2)
Charlie Valencia (9-3) vs. Dominick Cruz (10-1)
Tim McKenzie (11-5) vs. Jeremy Lang (12-0)
Chase Beebe (13-1) vs. Will Ribeiro (8-1)

*Charles "The Reverend" Grigsby

Charles "The Reverend" Grigsby v. Aaron Stark on April 18th

I have recently received news from Charles "The Reverend" Grigsby (15-3) that he will be facing IFL veteren Aaron Stark (5-4) on April 18th. The fight will take place under the Revolution Fighting Championship banner in Miami, Florida. Rev is very confident and knows this is a big opportunity for him before his debut in the WEC in June.

Stark is a former wrestler at University of Wisconsin. He finished (2-2) in the IFL with wins over Reese Andy and Alex Schoenauer, and TKO losses to Vladimir Matyushenko and Mike Ciesnolevicz. Rev was originally slated to face UFC vet Carmelo Marrero, but he made other plans. Marrero is rumored to be fighting for American Top Team in an IFL event on April 4th.

For a full article on "The Reverend" scroll down.

Team Revolution’s T.J. O’Brien and Jesse Lund to Fight This Saturday

Article by the MMA Blaster

The cold of the Midwest winter will be broken up this Saturday with Title Fight Championship's “Awakening” event. The mixed martial arts fight card will take place at the Val Air Ballroom in West Des Moines, Iowa. The main event will be a clash against 185 pound MMA veterans Mike Van Meer and Brian Green. Also on the card are two of Team Revolution’s up and coming fighters, T.J. “Da Spyder” O’Brien and Jesse Lund. Both are looking to continue on their winning ways and gain valuable fight experience. I was able to correspond with both before writing this article.

T.J. O’Brien has a lightweight fight with Jeff Carstens. Carstens is an experienced mixed martial artist with over fourteen pro fights to his name. All of Carstens' victories (and most of his losses) have come by way of submission. T.J. is aware of Cartens' love of the ground game and counter punching, and plans to use his reach advantage to control the fight. As a tall and lean 155 pound fighter TJ. said, "[m]y biggest assets coming into the fight would be my transition and my size. I fight at 155 and I am 6'2" so that gives me a reach advantage." T.J. will also look to establish his combinations and push the action.

T.J. is a graduate of Martensdale St. Marys High School and currently goes to Des Moines Area Community College. During high school, T.J. was a four time letter winner in basketball and track, taking part in state track meets all four years and still holds the record in the 4 X 400 meters. He has been studying Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for a little over a year.

Team Revolution’s Jesse Lund is in a 205 pound contest with Bryant Reynolds. Jesse was a four year wrestler at Nodaway Valley High School in Iowa, qualifying for state his senior year. When asked about the transition to mma, Jesse said, “[i]t was a hard transition from wrestling to jiu jitsu, especially pulling guard vs keeping your base. I had zero stand up skills, but now feel very strong on my feet, thanks to Rev for the hands and Razor for the kicks.”

In regards to his opponent on Saturday, Jesse knows little about his foe's skills other than his wrestling ability. Jesse is not coming into the fight with a specific game plan because he knows it will go out the window once he is hit. Jesse looks to keep the fight standing to show off his striking skills. But when the fight hits the ground, Jesse sees a quick victory coming. Jesse is a father of two, Baylie (6) and Blake (3), and gives extra thanks to his wife Theresa. She has allowed him to train, arranged for babysitters, and helped with ticket sales.

Both fighters wanted to give thanks to “The Reverend” Chuck Grigsby and Team Revolution. Jesse was not getting enough training at his previous camp before he called Rev and asked about joining the gym. T.J. was invited after talking to Rev while lifting weights at the YMCA.

I want to wish both the fighters luck in their bouts this weekend. I’ll let everyone know the results and hopefully will get some pictures up. If anyone still needs tickets, click on the Team Revolution link on the right.

Jesse Lund


T.J. O'Brien


*The text of this article is intellectual property owned by the MMA Blaster

WEC Contract for Charles "The Reverend" Grigsby

"The Reverend" Charles Grigsby (15-3, VCC and MCC Light Heavyweight Champ), recently informed me that he has signed a multi-fight deal to fight in the WEC. The WEC is an organization owned by UFC's parent corporation Zuffa, yet runs independently of the UFC.

The Reverend's first fight was scheduled for June 1, 2008. As it stands, Rev's originaly scheduled opponent, Lew Polley (6-0 Sherdog Record, 8-1 ATT website record), has withdrawn from the fight to fight on an Elite XC card. Rev may fight in card promoted in Florida in March prior to the WEC fight, he will let us know.



*See below for an exclusive story on "The Reverend"

First MMA Blaster Exclusive - Chuck "the Reverend" Grigsby

I'm pleased to announce that I will be doing an exclusive look at up and coming VCC and MCC light heavyweight champion Chuck "The Reverend" Grigsby (15-3). It should be out in a couple days.