Exclusive Interview - Shah Bobonis

*Since the interview, Shah has informed me that a major sponsor has pulled out of the event and it will be pushed back to May.

I recently had the chance to catch up with Shah Bobonis, a veteran mixed martial artist with over 17 professional bouts. Looking to build momentum off a January victory, Shah seeks another win in South Florida's Radrok MMA 2. The event takes place on March 25, 2011 at Florida Atlantic University's Burrow Arena in Boca Raton, Florida.

MMA Blaster: Since we last talked, you had a bout against Jaime Jimenez, how did that fight play out?

Shah Bobonis: The fight went well, he was a tough guy! He had me in a nice kimura in the first. As the fight went on I started landing my hands more and more. After taking a kick to the mid section, Jamie grabbed my leg, and got me to the floor. I hit a wrestling switch from butterfly guard to get back on top. Jaime was on all fours and I had a great wrestling position on his side to strike from. Then he tried to gramby roll me twice and on the second attempt I took his back and got the rear naked choke.

(Shah sinking the choke)

MMA Blaster: You had a prospective fight in Bellator's third season, why did it fall through? What do you think about fighting for Bellator sometime in the future?

Shah Bobonis: I sprained my knee pretty bad before the Bellator fight and had to pull out. It's really hard to get the call from a great show and then have to give up the chance to fight a great opponent on a great show. I can only hope that I get the chance this year to fight on Bellator.

MMA Blaster: Your next fight will be at Florida Atlantic University for RadRok MMA Championship, what do you think the atmosphere will be like? How do fans get tickets?

Shah Bobonis: Tickets should be on sale on their website soon. I know I will probably start selling tickets next week. I am fighting a well established American Top Team guy near ATT Coconut Creek gym, so I expect to hear a bunch of ATT fans cheering him on. Freestyle Fighting Academy, FFA is only a hour away, so I know I will have plenty of supporters cheering me on as well.

MMA Blaster: What is it like fighting in Florida as opposed to other places around the world?

Shah Bobonis: Fighting in Florida is getting easier now as far as the number of shows that are being held in the state, so I'm taking advantage of that. It is a bit more comfortable to sleep in your own bed every night before the fight so I welcome the change. Although I love to travel to fight and get the me versus the world mentality going.

(Shah throwing a punch in a Costa Rican fight)

MMA Blaster: What do you know about your opponent Chris Manuel? What are his strengths?

Shah Bobonis: Chris Manuel is great everywhere. He is an ATT black belt, very good wrestling for MMA, and text book kickboxing. He has no weaknesses

MMA Blaster: What weight will the fight be at? Is that where you feel more comfortable?

Shah Bobonis: The fight will be at 145 where I feel great.  For the Bellator fight I think I might have injured myself because of the weight I was trying to cut. My body was wearing down and I was really tired the day I sprained my knee.

(Radrok Promo Pic)

MMA Blaster: Where have you been training lately? Who are your main training partners now?

Shah Bobonis: I'm training at FFA with the Avellan brothers. It's a true MMA gym where I can train every aspect of my game. The guys there push me all the time. There are too many pro fighters at FFA to name, but they know who they are. They kick my butt all the time. Fighters who are Bellator veterans, NAGA champions, high level wrestlers, black belts in BJJ and in Karate, so I see it all. I get extra wrestling training with Chino Duran and Pat Williams; both are pro fighters who wrestled in college. Chino wrestled at Northern Illinois with guys like Clay Guida. Pat wrestled at ASU with CB Dolloway, Ryan Bader and Cain Velasquez.

MMA Blaster: You've began managing fighters, what challenges does that present? What is the most exciting part about that job?

Shah Bobonis: I just started managing fighters. I started just to help guys out at the gym because I had fought so many different places and ended up having a huge contact list of managers, promoters and matchmakers from all over the world. I've already put guys in Bellator, M-1 Global and the XFC. I'm getting enjoyment out of seeing guys that I train with win as I help guide their careers.

MMA Blaster: How does a prospective business sponsor one of your fighters?

Shah Bobonis: Aquiring sponsorships is the weakest area of my managing skill set mostly because of time. I also work close to full time as a bartender, so the time it takes to sell fighters is something I'm trying to outsource. I'm currently looking for someone to partner with to work on sponsorships. I have a few candidates in the works, but I'm still taking applications. At this point if anyone is interested in sponsoring one of my fighters, please send me a email at shahbobonis@aol.com.

MMA Blaster: Do you have any shout outs? Sponsor mentions? Shah Bobonis: I want to thank my most loyal sponsor Brawl and Maul! Everyone at FFA.  Also, Chino and Pat.

Spotlight - Build A Sign

Buildasign.com is a web based business providing a wide array of custom signage products.  You can personalize bumper stickers, banners, parking signs, window clings, vinyl decals, magnetics, flags and much more. 

The Build A Sign website is easy to use with a dynamic user interface.  In addition, you can browse some pre-designed popular sellers, including many hilarious politically themed products.  You can upload photographs for your custom piece, or use their large assortment of clipart.

Build A Sign uses quality materials and printing processes in the creation of your personalized product.  They also have excellent shipping as your goods arrive very quickly.  If you aren't happy with your purchase, they guarantee to make it right.

For a limited time, MMA Blaster will be giving away some free MMA Blaster magnets and window clings. I've got a magnetic up on my fridge at home and it can hold many pictures. 

I can ship anywhere in the United States and to the US Armed Forces. Just email your address to mmablaster@gmail.com. A photo of MMA Blaster's custom magnetic can be seen below:

Video of the Day - Oyama v. Manhoef

Here is Shungo Oyama versus Melvin Manhoef from K-1 Hero's 7 which took place on 10/9/06 at Yokohama Arena in Japan.

Manhoef next fights Tim Kennedy at Strikeforce: Henderson v. Feijao on March 5th.

Video of the Day - Camoes v. Lopez

Here is Fabricio Camoes fighting Steve Lopez which took place on 2/18/11 at Tachi Palace Fights 8 in Lenmoore, California.

Camoes, 10-5 heading into the fight, was coming off a two fight stint in the UFC where he fought to a majority draw with Caol Uno and lost to Kurt Peligrino. Camoes has Strikeforce/ShoXC wins over Joe Camacho, Sam Morgan and Torrance Taylor.

Lopez, 12-3 heading into the fight, was coming off back to back losses against Jim Miller and Waylon Lowe in the UFC.

Strikeforce Epic Heavyweight Tournament

The MMA world is buzzing after the opening bouts of Strikeforce's Heavyweight Grand Prix style tournament involving eight top 25 heavyweights. The next round will take place on April 9th somewhere on planet Earth. Japan, Canada and many locations in the United States have been rumored, but the status of Josh Barnett's fight license will likely force Strikeforce's hand.

The opening bouts saw MMA legend Fedor Emelianenko get crushed in the second round by the notably bigger Antonio Silva. In addition, Andrei Arlovski will likely be out of the game for a long time following a dramatic knock-out loss to the hands of Russian slugger Sergei Kharitonov.

The next round will see K-1, Dream and Strikeforce champion Alistair Overeem fighting ADCC champion Fabricio Werdum in a mega fight. In addition, former UFC champ Josh Barnett will face hard hitting Brett Rogers.

Alistair Overeem's Strikeforce HW belt will not be on the line, as the tournament will crown an independent Grand Prix Champion. Look for Werdum to try to force the floor at all times to avoid Alistair's destructive stand-up game.

Round 1 Results:

Antonio Silva def Fedor Emelianenko via TKO, R2, 5:00
Sergei Kharitonov def Andrei Arlovski via KO, R1, 2:49

Reserve Bout Winners:

Shane Del Rosario def Lavar Johnson via Sub(armbar) R1, 4:31
Chad Griggs def Gian Villante via TKO (strikes) R1, 2:49
Valentijn Overeem def Ray Sefo via Sub (neck crank) R1, 1:37

Remaining Round 1 bouts:

Alistair Overeem v. Fabricio Werdum (April 9th)
Brett Rogers v. Josh Barnett (April 9th)


Final Four Qualifiers:

Antonio Silva (16-2)- "Pezao" or "Bigfoot" is a strong heavyweight that meets the top end of the 265 pound limit. A lifelong martial artist, Silva has black belts in Karate, Judo and BJJ. Silva rose to fame by winning the heavyweight title in Elite XC, though he later tested positive for steroids. Silva blamed the test on a testosterone-booster that he uses to counteract the low testosterone levels caused by his acromegaly.

In the opening round of the tournament, Bigfoot had a very close 1st round matching the stand-up skills of Fedor Emelienenko. However in the second round, Bigfoot took advantage of Fedor utilizing his ground skills establishing dominant position, then crushing his foe with his massive fists.

Silva will go as far as his big time power and ground game will take him. Silva has TKO wins over Tom Erikson, Mike Kyle and Wesley Correira. He has decision wins over Andrei Arlovski and Ricco Rodriguez.


Sergei Kharitonov (18-4)- This Russian Airborne soldier gained notierity in the MMA world with his entertaining bouts in the Pride organization. A former training partner with Fedor Emelianenko, Kharitonov emerged in the 2004 Pride HW GP when he KO'd Ninja Rua and kickboxing legend Semmy Schilt.

Expect Kharitonov went toe to toe with Andrei Arlovski in his opening round bout, and despite taking some shots eventually got the better of Arlovski. Kharitonov used nasty uppercuts and punches to the body, eventually sending Arlovski to the canvas and finishing him off with strong ground and pound. Kharitonov has other victories over tournament front runners Alistair Overeem and Fabricio Werdum.


Remaining 1st Round Fighters:

Alistair Overeem (34-11)- Since becoming a full-time heavyweight, Overeem's career has shot off the charts. He is 9-0 since a September 2007 KO loss to fellow tourney competitor Sergei Kharitonov. Even more impressive, Alistair was able to capture the 2010 K-1 Grand Prix World Championship, defeating kickboxing legend Peter Aerts in the final.

Overeem is the defending Strikeforce HW champion, having won the title against Paul Buentello and defending against Brett Rogers. A powerful kickboxer with upper level submission skills, Overeem has other victories against Vitor Belfort, Todd Duffee and Igor Vovchanchyn.  Overeem will look to keep the fight standing against Werdum.


Fabricio Werdum (14-4)- Werdum sent shockwaves through the MMA world in his last fight, a one minute long bout with Fedor Emelianenko which saw the Russian tapping. As the bout unfolded, Werdum was punched, went to the canvas, and then baited an aggressive Fedor into the fight ending triangle/armbar choke. The submission won MMA Blaster's submission of the year.

Fabricio Werdum will be looking to get the fight with Overeem to the ground early and often to utilize his world renown jiu-jitsu skills. The task will be difficult, but Werdum has defeated many top fighters, including Brandon Vera, Junior Silva, Gabriel Gonzaga, Aleks Emelianenko and Fedor Emelianenko. Werdum is the 2007 and 2009 ADCC HW champ.


Josh Barnett (26-5)- The submission wizard and pro wrestling fanatic, Josh Barnett is an interesting character in the martial arts world. Barnett is still a wild card in the tournament, still not having cleared up a positive steroid test in California. If troubles persist, look for an alternate to take Barnett's place.

With the positive test looming in the United States, Barnett fought twice in Japan in 2010, winning via TKO over Geronimo dos Santos and submitting Mighty Mo Siliga. Barnett rose to fame in the early UFC, defeating Semmy Schilt and Bobby Hoffman to earn a title shot against Randy Couture. Barnett would defeat Couture via TKO at UFC 36, but tested positive for three banned substances. Barnett would go on to acheive success in Pride, going to the finals of the 2006 HW Grand Prix.


Brett Rogers (11-2)- The hard hitting Rogers rose to fame in the Elite XC when he rattled off four straight wins to earn a fight against Andrei Arlovski. Rogers would go on to knock out Arlovski with a clean shot, catapulting him into a match with Fedor Emelianenko.

Rogers would fight Fedor at Strikeforce, Chicago and battle the Russian to a close first round. In the second, Rogers ate a big shot and his night was finished. Rogers next fought Alistair Overeem to disappointing results. Since, Rogers rebounded with a win over Warpath Villareal.

Video of the Day - Bobonis v. Jimenez

Here is Shah Bobonis fighting Jaime Jimenez at RadRok MMA Championship which took place in Coral Springs, Florida on 1/21/11.

Bobonis is a friend of MMA Blaster and is currently managing fighters as well as training for more fights in 2011. Look for an upcoming exclusive interview on the site.

Video of the Day - Seagal on the Front Kick

At UFC 126, Anderson Silva pulled off yet another amazing finish using a ridiculous front kick to the face to send former champ Vitor Belfort to the canvas.

In the post fight interview, Anderson credited his new mentor Steven Seagal for showing him the manuever. Here is what Seagal says about the move and the UFC in general.

Anderson trains with Seagal:

Video of the Day - Calvancante v. Gailbraith

Here is Rafael "Feijao" Calvancante fighting Travis Galbraith in Elite XC which took place on 7/26/08 in Stockton, California.

Feijao next fights Dan Henderson for the Strikeforce 205 pound title on March 5th.

Here is the line-up for Strikeforce - Feijao v. Henderson which will take place March 5th at the Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio. The event will air live on Showtime.

MAIN CARD

Rafael Cavalcante v. Dan Henderson- 205 Pound Title
Marloes Coenen v. Liz Carmouche- 135 Women's Title
Tim Kennedy v. Melvin Manhoef
Billy Evangelista v. Jorge Masvidal

UNDERCARD - Not telivised

Roger Bowling v. Josh Thornburg
Billy Vaughan v. Jorge Gurgel
Jason "Jay" Freeman v. Jason Riley
Ian Rammel v. Brian Rogers
Marc Cofer v. Mitch Whitesel
J.P. Felty v. John Kuhner

Video of the Day - Irvin v. De Anda

Here is James Irvin fighting Angel De Anda in Rebel Fights for the heavyweight championship which took place on 10/2/10 in Roseville, California. De Anda was 7-1 going into the fight, riding a 6 fight win streak. Irvin was coming off of 3 straight UFC losses.

Irvin next fights at Tachi Palace Fights 7 against Jorge Oliveira. The fights take place on 12/2/10.


Tachi Palace 7 Fights Line-up:

James Irvin v. Jorge Oliveira
Jussier da Silva v. Danny Martinez
Isaac DeJesus v. Micah Miller - FW Title
John Alessio v. Phil Collins - WW Title
Seth Baczynski v. Tim McKenzie
Martin Sandoval v. Tommy Vargas
Jamie Jara v. Jay Silva
Andy Miranda v. Sergio Quinones
Jimmy Ambriz v. Mike Guidry
Chris Bostick v. Nik Fekete

Video of the Day - Kenny Florian

Here is an instructional video with Kenny Florian showing a modified guillotine choke. Kenny recently defeated Joe Stevenson ensuring a title shot against BJ Penn for the 155 pound title.

Video of the Day - Sakara v. Maiorino

Here is Alessio fighting Eduardo Maiorino at Real Fight 1 on 7/30/04 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Video of the Day - Sanchez v. Elbe

Here is Diego Sanchez v. Ray Elbe from King of the Cage which took place on 5/15/04. Diego will next fight Martin Kampmann at UFC on Versus 3 this Thursday night.

Ray Elbe was in the first round of the TUF 9 tournament, losing to Damaques Johnson.


Here is the full line-up for UFC on Versus 3:

Versus Main Card

Martin Kampmann v. Diego Sanchez
C.B. Dollaway v. Mark Munoz
Alessio Sakara v. Chris Weidman
Brian Bowles v. Damacio Page

Facebook Card (Like UFC on Facebook)

Danny Castillo v. Joe Stevenson
Cyrille Diabate v. Steve Cantwell

Preliminary Card

Shane Roller v. Thiago Tavares
Reuben Duran v. Takeya Mizugaki
Rob Kimmons v. Dongi Yang
Dave Branch v. Rousimar Palhares
Todd Brown v. Igor Pokrajac

Video of the Day - Hominick v. Greer

Here is Mark Hominick fighting Ben Greer at TKO 30: Apocalypse which took place on 9/28/07 in Montreal, Canada.

Hominick was riding a 5 fight win streak before losing a title fight to Jose Aldo at UFC 129. Hominick returns to the UFC this Saturday against Chan Sung Jung.