Newly-Signed ONE FC Fighter, Ariel “Tarzan” Sexton All Set To Climb 155 lbs. Ladder

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With big names such as Shinya Aoki, Eduard Folayang, Eddie Ng, Kotetsu Boku, Zorobabel Moreira, Peter Davis,  and Lowen Tynanes, One FC’s lightweight division arguably the most stacked and exciting weight class in any Asian MMA promotion today.

With the continuous admiration of fight fans around the world, One Fighting Championship keeps on signing world-class talents who can be their biggest assets in years to come.

The latest addition to the ultra-talented One FC lightweight division is the Canadian-Costa Rican submissinon specialist, Ariel “Tarzan” Sexton (7-2-1).

Sexton is part Canadian and part Costa Rican. He was born and raised in Vancouver Canada and at 20 years old, he moved to Costa Rica.

He is a BJJ black belt under the tutelage Ryan, Renzo and Daniel of the Gracie family. His first teacher was Mauro Sergio, a BJJ black belt from Ryan Gracie. The Canadia-Costa Rican fighter loves all types of sports and martial arts. He is currently training at his own gym in Costa Rica at Athletic Advance. He is an MMA veteran who fought all over the world in many organizations and has won a few titles in MMA and BJJ, and he was also part of UFC’s reality show, TUF season 12.

I don’t know if how many fighters in the fight business today has the coolest nicknames, but Ariel Sexton in my opinion has one of the most unique moniker in the industry. He is called “Tarzan” whenever he is inside the cage.

“My nickname is “Tarzan” because when I first came to Costa Rica, I was to visit my family and stay for two months. Then that turned into 2 years without even going home. Obviously, it was because I found BJJ and wanted to stay. My friends in Canada think we live in trees in the jungle and were bugging me and said I’m like Tarzan..It stuck, plus I’m the king of the jungle.” Ariel said.

With “Tarzan” being the latest addition to the stacked One FC lightweight division, he is for sure, one of those fighters who fans are interested to see inside the cage as he comes from a good BJJ background. He is very thankful and pumped for the opportunity to fight in Asia’s biggest MMA promotion.

“I have always loved the Orient and follow many customs they have. I started fighting MMA because of watching Pride FC. I always wanted to fight in a place where they respect you not only for winning, but for your lifestyle and samurai spirit. For the last year, I have thought and investigated One FC. I wanted to get into that organization badly. With the help from friend and fellow fighter, “The Super Korean” Denis Kang, my goal was reached. This is the biggest and important event in my life to date. I will take it the utter most serious and will show the Asian public just how pro I am.”

Sexton has a six-fight deal with One FC. The lightweight prodigy from Costa Rica looks to make his debut against one of Asia’s rising prospect, Peter Davis on June 15th in associate organization and Malaysia’s biggest MMA league, MIMMA (Malaysian Invasion Mixed Martial Arts).

“I’m signed for 6 fights and want to make my debut as soon as possible. They have me on a waiting list because they have a ton of ready fighters. I was told that my first fight will be in Malaysia this June 15th in an affiliate organization called MIMMA. But was assured that I’ll be very active and fighting more often than not.”

Sexton has trained with the best people in the industry at some of the outstanding MMA gyms in the world. Though he started honing his skills under Renzo Gracie in New York, Sexton’s hunger to be a well-rounded fighter brought him to try visiting several gyms, who later helped him on becoming a deadly MMA fighter.

“Ever since I started training MMA seriously, I would do all my camps at Renzo Gracie Academy in NYC. Over the last 6 years, my MMA mentor has been the legendary Daniel Gracie. He has opened many doors and helped me grow as a fighter and person. I have also done camps with the Mark Dellagrote Muay Thai School in Boston and with The Edge Wrestling Team in Hoboken, New Jersey. My team in Costa Rica is top notch and also is more than a notable mention amongst these other schools.”

Training indeed with Daniel and Renzo Gracie made Sexton a better fighter inside and outside the cage. His game, personality and outlook in life changed ever since training with these amazing people,

“Well, when you get to train with people that are better than you and have been there before, it helps to minimize your errors and keeps you very humble. I have always had a great personality towards helping others and staying grounded.”

When asked on what are his biggest strengths and the things he need to work on the most,

“I would have to say my biggest strength is my heart and my preparation for bouts; over worker who never complains and does more than expected. As for the fighting, my speed and agility has not been matched, and my strength is like a middleweight. I need to work on everything because if I want to be a champ, I’m going to need to be the best in every area. BJJ is good, wrestling is fair and striking is descent. You will be the judge!”

Tarzan is a fighter who is comfortable to take the fight on both standing up or ground. Once he takes you down, he will impose his will on you and grinds you until you commit an error. His grappling is world-class and he has this striking who he developed during his training at Mark Dellagrote Muay Thai School in Boston. Despite of being such a good fighter, Sexton hates on calling opponents out,

“I don’t like to call out fighters because it’s a bit cocky, but I want the top level guys to show my top level game.”

Sexton defined what it means to be a fighter:

“Fighting to me is to have goals and reach them, to set your self apart from the ordinary person, to make sacrifices and maybe not live the normal 9-5 job with a steady pay and have security in your future. But to inspire other that if you love something and want to do a certain job to go after it and never stop until you fulfilled yourself. I enjoy the daily grind of taking your body beyond its limits and pushing your mental edge until it breaks down. I love the feeling of winning after a great camp and having people say “Wow, how did you do that, I wanna learn. Fighting has to be in your mind, body and soul; you have to be born with it.”

Being a lightweight fighter fighting under the One FC brand, Sexton is aware that the current lightweight champion is a great fighter and one of the most feared fighters in the world today. He respect Aoki, but if he would get a chance to fight him, he’ll push the pace and shock the world.

“Aoki is a great BJJ and MMA fighter. I think he has to be the most dangerous guy on the ground out there. He is a champion and always will be. I have a great amount of skills and determination to win my fights and first, I’ll concentrate on my bout coming up. But if I would get the honor to fight the champ, I would push the pace and shock the world.”

Costa Rican MMA fighters are not that really making huge buzz in the MMA world, except for Sexton, who is probably the most successful MMA fighter in Costa Rica today. But talent wise, there are a lot of skillful fighters down there.

“MMA in Costa Rica is very big and has been around for about 10 years. We have the highest level in Central and Latin America. Our only problem is that we are shadowed by soccer and it is very hard to get sponsors and even recognition. We have fighters that are fighting in Europe, Canada, USA, all over Latin America and now in Asia. We are so talented that we only export so the world knows of Costa Rica.” Sexton said.

Three more weeks until his much-awaited fight in Asia, “Tarzan” is working his tail off to impress thousands of One FC fans, and he promised to give very exciting and entertaining fight for his Asian MMA fans,

“Expect from me in my One FC fights to push the pace, throw bombs, flying knees, always the fight of the night, hard ground and pound with jiu jitsu scramble ability that crowds love. Plus, I can talk great and I always love to be in front of the camera, a true showman that respects others and wishes the best to the One FC family. See you soon!

PXC 37 Results – Tanaka Is The New PXC World Bantamweight Champion, Jang Yong Kim Advances To The Tournament Finals

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Venue: PXC 37

Date:18 May 2013

Location: Ynares Sports Arena, Pasig, Phililppines

Pacific X-treme Combat (PXC) wrapped up its 37th installment on Saturday (May 18, 2012), at the Ynares Sports Arena, Pasig City, Philippines.

Crisanto Pitpitunge failed to defend his title as he was defeated by the skillful Japanese fighter, Michinori Tanaka via Unanimous Decision.

It was a very entertaining fight between Tanaka and Pitpitunge as two of the best bantamweights in Asia gave all they got to entertain the fans.

In the first round, everyone thought that Crisanto will make Tanaka tap as he caught the Japanese submission specialist into a tight rear-naked choke. But Tanaka looked very relaxed while Pitpitunge’s squeezing his neck – that’s how high level grappler Tanaka is. Since that RNC attempt by the former champ, it was all about Tanaka’s wrestling.

Tanaka and his team were very emotional after the fight as they all knew that their labor paid off as they’ll bring the PXC bantamweight belt back home in Japan. In this sport of MMA, each bout can only have one winner and one loser. Getting a victory in this tough sport is no doubt, one of the best thing that has happened to a fighter while losing can put a fighter down emotionally and mentally.

We know the fact that all fighters are looking for that win; we must also know that some captures it, others don’t.

After enduring some rigorous training and exhausting weight cut, Korean Top Team’s Jang Yong Kim is back to his winning ways as he submitted an up and coming fighter from Hawaii, Nate Thorell in the opening round via kimura.

While Kim is celebrating his win against Thorell, his team mate, Hong Seung Chan was at the dugout thinking what went wrong in his game plan as he was defeated by Reno Remigio of Hawaii in the third round by way of TKO (punches). Remigio’s Muay Thai played a big factor on his victory over the South Korean fighter. He is connecting solid knees and razor sharp elbows whenever they are in the clinch position. Also, the take down defense of Remegio helped him get the W for his PXC debut. Though stepping up late to fight Chan, the part Hawaiian-Filipino Remegio showcased his superb striking abilities and left a message to the rest of the lightweight division that he is here to stay.

Fight Works MMA went 2-0 as Rolando Gabriel Dy submits Arex Montalban by way of armbar and Ernesto Montilla Jr. shocked the crowd by taking out Team Lakay’s Jerome Wanawan in the second round. The Laguna-based fight team is going to celebrate its first anniversary on May 27th and getting big wins last night were an early gift for the whole team who struggled to get some sponsorship prior to PXC 37. Someone really needs to support this team financially because the talents over there are exceptional. I predict that FWMMA will be one of the Philippines’ best MMA team in a couple of years.

While Fight Works MMA celebrates their huge victories last night, Team Lakay arguably had their toughest outing so far as they went 0-3. Wanawan faced a much improved Ernesto Montilla last night. Montilla showed speed, power and his excellent endurance. Montilla handed Jerome his second straight losses. Troy Bantiag faced Trevin Jones in a match where most of the fight fans knew he will dominate. But Jones fought smart and took the fight to where Bantiag has his weakness – on the ground. Jones defeated Bantiag via UD. Team Lakay vows to bounce back strong on August 31st as 5 of its best fighters will fight in ONE FC 9 ‘Rise to Power’.

Bout 1: Dy versus Montalban – Featherweights

[Dy def. Montalban via 1st Rd. Submission (Armbar) ]

Bout 2: Nakayama versus Pecyna – Featherweights

[Nakayama def. Pecyna via 1st. Rd. Submission (Kimura) ]

Bout 3: Samad versus Machado – Lightweights

[Samad def. Machado via 2nd Rd. Submission (Armbar) ]

Bout 4: Montilla Jr versus Wanawan – Flyweights

[ Montilla Jr. def. Wanawan via 2nd Rd. TKO (Punches) ]

Bout 5: Chan versus Remigio – Lightweights

[ Remigio def. Chan via 3rd Rd. TKO (Punches) ]

Bout 6: Bantiag versus Jones – Bantamweights

[ Jones def. Bantiag via UD ]

Bout 7: Kim versus Thorell – (Featherweight Semi-Final)

[Kim def. Thorell via 1st Rd. Submission (Kimura)]

Bout 8: Pitpitunge versus Tanaka (Bantamweight Title)

[ Tanaka def. Pitpitunge via UD ]

Mark Sangiao Is Preparing His Pupils For The Biggest Fights Of Their Careers

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In the past few years, Team Lakay has been a major force in Asian MMA scene, especially in Philippine MMA. They are one of the reasons why Philippines is the hot bed for MMA in Asia today.

Team Lakay is the home of MMA champs such as ONE FC featherweight world king Honorio “The Rock” Banario, who is also the current URCC lightweight title holder. The Baguio-based MMA fight team is also the residence of PXC world bantamweight champion Crisanto “The Slugger” Pitpitunge, URCC welterweight champion and Martial Combat Superfight title holder, Eduard “Landslide” Folayang, URCC flyweight champion, Kevin “Silencer” Belingon and the longtime URCC flyweight title holder, “The Punisher” Rey Docyogen.

If there is one man who is responsible for producing such great fighters, that would be none other than Team Lakay’s head coach, former URCC bantamweight champion, and former SEA Games Gold Medalist, Mark “The Machine” Sangiao.

Sangiao is a long-established martial arts practitioner. From kickboxing to taekwondo, judo to Brazilian jiu jitsu, Sangiao is truly, the pioneer of MMA in his home town Baguio City and arguably one of the people who brought MMA in the Philippines into a whole new level.

Sangiao knows how to build champions, he knows how exactly a fighter should train and eat because he is a former fighter himself; he understands the point of view of every fighter who trains at his gym.

mark sangiao 2

Team Lakay’s journey on top continues as they prepare for the biggest fights of their MMA careers. Mark Sangiao is getting his fighters ready for two of the most anticipated mixed martial arts events not only in the Philippines, but in whole Asia, as 8 of his best pupils will compete in PXC 37 and ONE FC 9 ‘Riste to Power’. Both events will be headlined by two Team Lakay world champions.

First up, PXC 37, happening on May 18th at The Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City, Philippines, as the current champion Crisanto “The Slugger” Pitpitunge makes his first-ever title defense against the undefeated and ground specialist from Japan, Michinori Tanaka. Also, two of Team Lakay’s young fighters, Troy “The Hunter” Bantiag and Jerome Wanawan will make their appearances at the said PXC event. Bantiag will go up against Guam’s Trevin Jones, while Jerome Wanawan looks to comeback to his winning ways against a very talented fighter from San Pedro, Laguna, Ernesto Montilla Jr.

After PXC 37, the mammoth ONE FC 9 ‘Rise to Power’ is up next for the Baguio-based fight team. The current ONE FC world featherweight champion from Team Lakay, Honorio “The Rock” Banario will also make his first title defense against a seasoned veteran in Koji Oishi of Japan.

Four more well-recognized Team Lakay fighters will make their toughest fights so far as Eduard “Landslide” Folayang faces WEC and UFC vet, Kamal “Prince of Persia” Shalorous, Kevin “The Silencer” Belingon battles grappling wizard Masakatsu Ueda for the Bantamweight GP Finals, Rey “The Punisher” Docyogen takes on former UFC fighter, Yasuhiro Urushitani and “The Gravity” Geje Eustaquio is finally back inside the ONE FC cage against his toughest opponent to date, Phuket Top Team’s Andrew Leone.

team lakay elites

Mark Sangiao’s pushing his fighters to the limit to prepare them for tough battles against some of the big names in Asian MMA today. Team lakay fighters are known for their excellent condition, power and rigorous training regimen. Mark is assured that his boys are ready come fight night due to a very much-improved training that his fighters are doing for the big events coming up,

“They are doing great. The training leveled up compared to the last ones because they are training together and they know that they have their own big fights to win.”

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Getting a fighter ready for a big event is a very difficult taks to do. But from Mark Sangiao’s standpoint, as long as you and your fighters work together, nothing is impossible,

“No, it’s not hard to train them because we really work as a team and brought in some additional coaches who specializes in boxing and Muay Thai. Also, we have our own Sanshou background that we can add well with some wrestling techniques. We also added some extra time on our grappling. But all in all, training our guys here isn’t too difficult.”

Aside from bringing in coaches who specializes in Boxing and Muay Thai, Sangiao also arranged additional outdoor training for his fighters and added extra hour to every practice just to make sure that they are well prepared when they go to battle,

team lakay

“We adjusted our time of practice; we extended our training hours. Also, in this training camp, we only not focused ourselves inside the gym and having uphill sprints, we also added some extra training at Teacher’s Camp here in Baguio City for strength and conditioning.  So those are some of the adjustments that we made for this camp.”

All of Team Lakay fighters that will compete at PXC 37 and ONE FC 9 are matched up against world-class grapplers. It is evident from their past fights that whenever a grappler fights a Lakay fighter, it is either that grappler’s going to give the Lakay fighter a tough fight or submit him.

But as we all know, the game is continuously evolving so as the fighters. Lakay fighters, through their setbacks against ground specialists, gave them a serious motivation to train harder and focus more on sharpening their grappling skills.

First on Mark Sangiao’s list is Crisanto Pitpitunge’s title defense against Michinori Tanaka, who we all aware of being such a deadly fighter whenever he’s on the ground. Sangiao has been working on improving Pitpitunge’s take down defense and how to escape from various submission holds. Also, in PXC 37, Troy Bantiag will face Trevin Jones, a fighter who has a very intimidating wrestling game and serious punching power. Jerome Wanawan will make his first appearance of the year as he comes off a humbling loss against Eugene Toquero last year,

“Crisanto’s training is great. We know that Tanaka’s well-trained on the ground and has very decent grappling skills. That’s why we trained Crisanto’s take down defense and focused more on his grappling because we know Tanaka will try to take him down, so we also practiced various submission escapes.”

“Troy and Jerome also are doing great. They are very positive the whole training because they really want to win their fights. Another great thing about this camp is that everyone is helping each other to improve. They are forcing everyone to sharpen their skills and aim to level their skills up together. They will be ready on May 18th for PXC 37.” Sangiao added.

After PXC 37, ONE FC 9 ‘Rise to Power’ is next as Honorio Banario defends his title against Oishi, Belingon battles Ueda for the GP finals, Docyogen faces former UFC fighter, Urushitani and Eustaquio to lock horns with Leone.

Banario captured the title against Eric Kelly on February 2, 2013, at Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Now that he is going to defend his belt for the first time, fighting in front of his home crowd adds up to the pressure. It is a tough task to fight world-class fighters in your backyard, but Sangiao is confident that Banario and the rest of his fighters will be 110% ready on May 31,

“Honorio’s training is phenomenal, especially that Eduard is fresh from the U.S and has some great techniques with him that he can impart to his training partner, Honorio. He really wants to retain his title and I am happy to see him doing all his best in every training session we have.”

“With regards to Oishi’s ground skills, I saw some of his fights and the truth is, he is not really that fighter who loves to take the fight to the ground. I watched some videos of him and he also likes to strike. I am pretty sure that this fight is going to be electrifying. My prediction for this match up is that thousands of fans will be on the edge of their seats. But just in case Oishi will take Honorio down, we are ready for that; Honorio can beat Oishi at his own game.”

Fresh off his TKO victor over Thanh Vu last April 5th in ONE FC 8, Belingon’s next assignment is to beat a fellow GP finalist, Masakatsu Ueda.

belingon vs ueda

Belingon is an extraordinary fighter. He comes to every fight with a lot of surprises. Whenever he steps inside the cage, he is a different man, a much-improved fighter every time he fights. He will face another high-level grappler in Ueda for the ONE FC Bantamweight GP Finals,

“Ueda is very refined on the ground, but Kevin obviously has a significant advantage in the striking department. If Ueda will take Kevin down, I’m positive that with the much improved grappling skills of Kevin, he can keep up very well with the Japanese’s game. Kevin is getting better and better every fight. So I know he will soon be a contender to the ONE FC Bantamweight title.”

After 7 weeks of refining his ground game in the U.S, the poster boy of Team Lakay, Eduard “Landslide” Folayang is back and hopes to beat Kamal Shalorous using his much-improved ground game. Sangiao believes that Folayang’s U.S trip was a huge eye-opener for the reigning URCC welterweight champion to train harder to improve his wrestling and jiu jitsu game,

Photo Credit: Anton Tabuena

Photo Credit: Anton Tabuena

“We cannot say that in just 7 weeks of his training in the U.S, we can see a well-versed Eduard Folayang on the ground. But at least, he absorbed some important techniques that he can use in his future fights. His U.S trip was a great eye-opener for him to work harder to refine his grappling.”

Shalorous has been in the UFC and fought some of the best in the world, which makes him a real threat to Eduard Folayang. But Mark saw something about Shalarous game that Eduard can take advantage of and he believes that his pupil will win the fight,

“We watched some of Shalarous fights and we saw something that Eduard can capitalize on. I cannot reveal what it is, but I think Eduard is much faster and technical than him. I know he can beat Shalorous. But if Eduard can do it via KO or TKO, much better.”

When asked if his boys are ready for PXC 37 and ONE FC 9,

“Of course, they are good to go. But as of now, we are very cautious about them not getting any injuries as the fight day approaches very fast. That’s the only concern we have right now.”

Being a coach, adviser, provider and a second father to his fighters, aside from making their dreams come true; one great thing about handling these fighters in Sangiao’s assessment is changing those fighters to become a better person,

“That’s one of the great things about this sport. We’re dealing different personalities and change them for the better. For me, even if sometimes I am not around during practices, I know they will do their part as a fighter. I know they will do what is right whenever they’re in the gym, even though sometimes my eyes are not monitoring them. Because I am always telling them that you will not be a champion unless you train like one.”

When asked on who are the naughtiest Team Lakay fighters,

“I would say Rey (Docyogen) and Honorio (Banario). (Laughs) Unlike their other team mates, those two are the loudest people everytime we train; they always make their team mates laugh. Also, Troy (Bantiag), maybe it’s because of his age, but he sometimes doesn’t take things seriously, but I understand that. He still got a long way to go.”

Last year, through his personal Facebook account, Sangiao asked a question to his fans on whether they like to see him back in action inside the ring/cage. It was obvious in the comment thread that a lot of fans and friends want him to go back and fight. But due to his tight schedule preparing his fighters to various gigantic MMA events around Asia, it seems like he really hang up his gloves and focused himself on handling his fighters and setting up local MMA and grappling tournaments,

“We already discussed about that matter, but as much as I’d like to go back into fighting, with the tasks I have as the head coach of the team; organizing some local shows like Team Lakay Championship and Team Lakay Grapplers’ Cup, it is really rational for me to not fight anymore. It’s not that my body cannot do it anymore, it’s just my schedule is so tight that I cannot train hard because I have more important things to do like those I’ve mentioned a while ago. So right now, that is my focus, coaching and organizing our events.”

When asked on what advice he can give to those coaches who look up to him,

“For me, to be able to stay hungry in the sport, is they need to check their passion for this sport. Then they need to look at the future of MMA in our country. If they want to be successful in this sport, all they need to do is focus and get real serious about it.”

“I am always saying about this to other coaches – we need to have healthy competitions among us. If we have events here in Baguio, they are welcome to join us. If they do have events in their own provinces, we are glad to join and help them. Let us just take away that traditional mentality of comparing each other’s abilities; we need to have a healthy competition. We need to learn from each other for the benefit of the sport. Here at Team Lakay, we are willing to invite them to join our events. We set aside our pride because we know that we also need the knowledge of Muay Thai practictioners, Wrestlers and Jiu Jitsu, for us to be a well-rounded.” Sangiao added.

Ernesto Montilla Jr. Looks For His Second Win As A Flyweight Against Jerome Wanawan In Tonight’s PXC 37

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Fighting out of Fight Works MMA in San Pedro, Laguna, Philippines, Ernesto Montilla Jr. aims to get close to the PXC’s flyweight title picture as he takes on arguably his toughest opponent by far in Team Lakay’s Jerome Wanawan tonight in PXC 37 at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.

Ernesto is famous for his speed and tremendous punching power. He started his fighting career as an amateur boxer then turned pro as a Muay Thai practitioner; no wonder why this kid is such an exceptional fighter and is a real intimidation to anyone he faces inside the cage. He trains alongside some of the best up and coming fighters in the country such as Isaiah “Ice” Ordiz and Rolando Gabriel Dy.

The-21-year-old Montilla Jr.made his PXC debut last November of 2012 against Dario Banario in PXC 34 as a bantamweight. Though he lost that fight, he impressed a lot of fans by his performance and left a mark to the crowd that he is for real.

Montilla Jr. then decided to move down to flyweight which many believed is his natural weight class and will show his true potential.

On February 16, 2013, Montilla Jr. fought a highly decorated striker, Ruel Catalan at PXC 35. It was indeed a fight to be remembered as both fighters trade heavy shots against each other. Montilla Jr.’s more complete MMA game gave him the edge over Catalan and submitted the crafty striker in the second round via rear-naked choke and cemented his first-ever PXC win in an impressive fashion.

Undoubtedly, Montilla Jr.’s move to flyweight division is a huge testimony that he is a lot more stronger, faster and deadly and has sent a message to other flyweights in his division that he is a force to be reckoned with inside the cage.

The pride of San Pedro, Laguna, will make his third PXC appearance against a very durable fighter in Jerome Wanawan of Team Lakay. The match-up is said to be one of the most anticipated bouts of the night as two of the PXC’s best flyweights will test each other’s experise and intend to move closer to the title picture.

The online stream of PXC 37 is a free of charge via Facebook at 9pm Manila-time (6am Pacific Standard Time).

Check out PXC.COM.PH for the latest updates!

All Fighters Made Weight For Tomorrow’s PXC 37!

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All  fighters are officially good to go as they all made weight this morning at Bar 360 in Resorts World Manila for tomorrow’s PXC 37 at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.

Headlining PXC 37 is a world bantamweight championship between the champ Crisanto “Slugger” Pitpitunge and Michinori Tanaka.

Both the champ and the challenger make weight.

All 16 fighters made weight this morning for tomrrow’s loaded PXC 37 event.

The card at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig features a world title fight between the champ Crisanto Pitpitunge and the challenger Michinori Tanaka. The first round of the four-man featherweight tourney is also set between Korean Top Team’s Jang Yong Kim and Nate Thorell. Round two of the said tourney is scheduled on August 31 in Manila.

The champion Crisanto Pitpitunge checked in at 135 lbs. for his first title defense against Michinori Tanaka, who checked in at 134 lbs.

In other bouts featuring two heavy-handed fighters, Team Lakay’s Troy “The Hunter Bantiag (135 lbs.) battles Guahan Top Team’s Trevin Jones (135 lbs.). An explosive flyweight match up is also set between crowd favorite Jerome Wanawan (125 lbs.) and the skillful fighter from Laguna, Ernesto Montilla Jr. (135 lbs.).

Complete weigh-in results:

Crisanto Pitpitunge (135) vs. Michinori Tanaka (136) –Bantamweight Championship

Jerome Wanawan (125) vs. Ernesto Montilla Jr (126)

Troy Bantiag (136) vs. Trevin Jones (136)

Nate Thorell (146) vs. Jang Yong Kim (146) – Featherweight Tournament Semi Finals

Johnny Pecyna (145) vs. Takumi Nakayama (145)

Wesley Machado (154) vs. Syafiq “The Slasher” Abdul Bin Samad (155)

Reno Remigio (155) vs. Hong Seung Chan (155)

Rolando Gabriel Dy (145) vs. Arex Montalban (145)

PXC Signs Filipina World Boxing Champion Gretchen Abaniel

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PXC is known for having such world-class pool of talent. In the past few months, the Guam-based MMA promotion has sent some of its best fighters and former champions in the UFC and Bellator, two of the biggest MMA promotions in the U.S today.

Aside from sending fighters into the big leagues, PXC keeps on helping local and international fighters from the ground up. PXC also opened its female division couple of months ago and did their first-ever female bout at PXC 36 between Kailin Curran and Kaiyana Rain. Curran won the fight via a Unanimous Decision over Rain.

PXC continues to add up exciting fighters from all over the world as they sign the former WBC International Female Minimumweight Champion and the current WIBA Minimumweight Champion from the Philippines, Gretchen “Chen Chen” Abaniel.

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“We are excited to welcome Gretchen to PXC competition and we feel she will be an instant fan favorite. As we build our female division, we are extremely selective with signing fighters, and promise that female bouts will be explosive and exciting to watch!”, said E.J. Calvo, PXC CEO & Promoter

Abaniel became a two-time WIBA champion last December of 2012 when she stopped Thailand’s Modthanoi SithSaithion in the 4th round.

Abaniel won her first world title with a ten round unanimous victory against Nongbua Lookpraiaree of Thailand back in 2005.

The 27-year-old native of Puerto  Princesa, Palawan, started her boxing career late at the age of 17 years old. After couple of years, she joined the National Team and stormed the local boxing scene in the Philippines.

“I started learning boxing at the age of 17.Though started very late, I didn’t had a hard time learning boxing. I’m a fast learner; I pick up techniques very quickly. My father really supports my boxing career since day one but my mother was against it during the first years.”

Abaniel garnered bronze in 2004 when she competed in Taiwan and earned a gold medal in 2007 in Russia. She is a very methodical boxer and has a great endurance.

“I am a scientific fighter, I love studying my opponent’s game and try to break their will slowly but surely.”

“Chen Chen” is the youngest and the only girl of three siblings. Like other boxers in the Philippines, Gretchen is fighting for her family, to give them a better life. It is quite funny that despite of fighting internationally in boxing, she doesn’t want her family to know about her MMA debut.

“My family back home doesn’t know that I am going to fight in MMA. Maybe I will tell them after the making my MMA debut and they will for sure be surprised about it.”

The sport of MMA is contantly evolving. Fighters who once relied on a single skill are becoming phased out and replaced by well-rounded martial artist. In order to succeed in this sport, fighters have been force to adapt their skills, or risk having their weakness exposed. Abaniel is aware that knowing only boxing won’t give her the W she wants; that’s why she is working her tail off to furnish her wrestling and grappling skills. She is expected to make her PXC debut on August 31st in Manila.

“I want to try MMA because I think it is exciting and it is more difficult compared to boxing. In boxing, your only concern is to win the fight by punching your opponent in the face. In MMA, you got a lot of things to learn, like wrestling, BJJ and Muay Thai. I am confident with my striking but obviously, I need to work hard and learn the art of wrestling/grappling.”

Though she is quite nervous for her MMA debut, Abaniel is confident that with the help of her team mates at Team Insider Gym in Makati, she is confident she will win her debut in a notable fashion.

“I am happy that I signed with the premier MMA promotion in the Philippines, the PXC and made history as the first-ever PXC Fililpina fighter.I am excited as well to make my MMA debut in front of thousands of Filipino fans in August.”

After his PXC debut on August, Abaniel will be defending her WIBA minimumweight title in Macau as one of the under card fights of Pacquiao vs. Rios in November.

PXC has a lot of big plans coming up as PXC CEO & Promoter, EJ Calvo, told us that they will be soon adding up another electrifying weight class for male fighters;  the Straweight division (115 lbs.)

Although he has not disucssed a lot about PXC 38 next month, what we only know that they will be back in Guam next month and it will be headlined by some of the biggest names in the region. Filipino knockout artist Eugene Toquero will also make his first-ever PXC fight outside the Philippines as he faces the very talented Rambaa Sombdet in the PXC’s 38th installment.

Also, after PXC 39 on August 31st in Manila, PXC are planning to go back to The Big Dome in November for a gigantic event.

Visit PXC.COM.PH for the latest updates.

PXC Bantamweight Champion Crisanto Pitpitunge Is Confident He Can Beat Tanaka At His Own Game

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Crisanto celebrates after his 1st round KO win against Justin Cruz

Crisanto celebrates after his 1st round KO win against Justin Cruz

Being a champion simply shows that you are the best fighter in your division. But you must  understand that the journey to become on top of the food chain is not that easy. You will surely encounter some hurdles that will hinder you from getting closer to achieving your dream, which will sooner or later help you to become a stronger person inside and out.

Crisanto “The Slugger” Pitpitunge is one of the toughest bantamweight fighters in Asia today. He has been through a lot of difficulties in life that motivated him to attain his dreams in life.

Training out of one of the badass gyms in Asia, Team Lakay, the current PXC world bantamweight champion Pitpitunge started his pro MMA career in 2011 against a fellow Filipino fighter, Mark “Mugen” Striegl.

Crisanto heading to that fight is hundred percent ready. But the bigger, stronger and well-rounded fighter Striegl overpowered the well-versed striker in Pitpitunge and took the fight to the ground where he imposed his will and submit him via rear naked choke in the opening round.

Since that loss, Pitpitunge worked his tail off to hone his ground game and his take-down defense.

In August of 2011, Pitpitunge made his PXC debut against a super tough veteran in Alex Castro. Pitpitunge won the fight via 1st round TKO (Doctor Stoppage). The Baguio-based fighter was not impressed of his performance against Castro and he told his fans that he will perform way better next time.

Pitpitunge made his second PXC appearance at PXC 26 in November of 2011 against Jerry Cimeni. Pitpitunge’s MMA game has significantly improved on that fight as he showcased some deadly ground and pound attack to Cimeni. Crisanto won via 1st round TKO.

After that win against Cimeni, Pitpitunge went on a tear winning three more wins, including his PXC 31 championship match-up against Justin Cruz, who Pitpitunge dethroned in just two minutes of the very first round via nasty KO punch.

You can watch the KO punch at 0:29 mark:

http://http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0y4xXIWhavI

After almost a year since he got the belt, “The Slugger” is officially back to make his first-ever title defense against the undefeated Japanese submission specialist, Michinori Tanaka on May 18th at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City, Philippines, for PXC 37.

“Tanaka is a well-rounded fighter. He is very good in the ground as well as in the striking department. I’m really not that concerned about his Jiu Jitsu skills. This is MMA, everything can happen in any moment. If his strength is on the ground, I’ll happy to fight his fight and beat him there.”, said the confident Pitpitunge.

As always, Crisanto, through the help of Team Lakay head coach, Mark “The Machine” Sangiao, is preparing very well for this fight as they know that Tanaka is a world-class fighter,

“My training for this fight is fantastic. I’m very thankful for my team mates here at Team Lakay, Baguio, for helping me out. Because here at Team Lakay, we are acting like one, we make sure that everyone is improving as a person and fighter.”

Everyone is expecting a lot from the champion as the memory of that KO win over Cruz is still there. I mean, he put the former champ into a deep sleep in a single punch. That’s how good and powerful Pitpitunge is.

“When I fought Cruz last year for the belt, I am really prepared to trade strikes with him or if he takes me down, it’s fine because we also prepared for it. We really studied Cruz’ game by watching his past fights and one thing we saw that he really loves to do is throwing that superman punch. So we came up with a counter that whenever he throws superman punch, I will counter with my right. That’s why I’m very happy that I won that fight in an impressive fashion.”

There’s no doubt that Pitpitunge’s striking is second to none, but in his previous fights, we really didn’t saw how good his guard is and his defense on the ground. But everyday, the game is evolving. In order for you to become a champion, you need to learn or at least master every aspect of the game. And that’s what Pitpitunge is doing right now; getting better as a striker and a grappler as well.

“My advantage him (Tanaka) would be my striking and power. But I am hundred percent confident that I can also beat him on his own game. I think his endurance has never been tested. We’ll see if he can keep up with my pace until the later rounds. This is championship fight, five rounds of five minutes, so we’ll see.”

After he acquired the PXC bantamweight title, Crisanto committed himself into a six-month training as a Police Officer. He may have been away in the gym for quite some time, but the champion knows his responsibilities as the best in his division.

“In my six-months of training as a Police Officer, I managed to stay in shape by doing roadwork every morning, we also have strength and conditioning training inside our barracks and drills that are similar to MMA training that we do.”

When asked on what is Team Lakay’s secret to success,

“There are no secrets. It’s all patience and hard work. We are working as one even though sometimes the gym is full, we always make sure that everybody is learning and helping each other out. Team Lakay is a brotherhood, we are supporting each other. We are very thankful that we have Coach Mark Sangiao, who is always there to guide us and teach us things that will help us to become a better person.”

Being guided by one of the best MMA coaches in the fight business today is arguably one of the reasons why Pitpitunge is one of the feared fighters in Asia. Mark Sangiao, as a fighter, is known for being a finisher. He knocks and submit people out. As a coach, he really has the knowledge to mold champions because he has been in the sport for a long time. That’s why Pitpitunge is so thankful that they have a coach like Mark Sangiao.

“Coach Mark is always reminding me to stay patient and work hard everyday in the gym. He also told us that it is better to experience some difficulties in training than to the actual fight.”

As the fight night approaches, the intensity of Pitpitunge’s training is getting harder, the pressure is rising as the champion gets nearer to the day where he will face the most important fight of his career.

On May 18, 2013, PXC world bantamweight champion and the pride of the Philippines, Crisanto “The Slugger” Pitpitunge faces a sumbission wizard in Michinori Tanaka.

“They can expect a very good and exciting fight between me and Tanaka”, said Pitpitunge.

PXC 37 will also showcase a four-man featherweight tournament as fan favorite, Mark “Mugen” Striegl faces Shooto champ, Yusuke Yachi and Korean Top Team’s “The Beast” Jang Yong Kim battles Hawaiian fighter, Nate “Da Great” Thorell.

The finals match of the said featherweight tourney is scheduled on August in the Philippines and the winner will be crowned as the new PXC world featherweight champion.

Visit PXC.COM.PH for the latest updates!

Three Team Lakay Warriors At PXC 37 By Mark “The Machine” Sangiao

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pxc 37 team lakayThree Team Lakay warriors are now ready to prove themselves in the cage once again. The trainings are done. All we have to do is wait until the event on Saturday and Pray for successful outcomes of what we have worked hard for. We did our best in preparing for Pacific Xtreme Combat’s “PXC 37” which is to be held at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City on May 18. The boys are now in Manila for their press conferences, open work-outs and pictorials for the said event. After these are the weigh-ins on Friday morning and then the event proper come Saturday night.

We don’t worry that much since we have done our best in our preparation. We had our rigorous and intense training every morning and afternoon of everyday, together with our other Team Lakay fighters like Eduard Folayang, Honorio Banario, Kevin Belingon, Geje Eustaquio, Rey Docyogen, Dave Galera and other up and coming fighters. Rain or shine we have to follow our Training Program. It was a sacrifice for all of us. For as long as we did our best, we know that in the end, it’s going to be worth it.

Crisanto “The Slugger” Pitpitunge, a Kapangan-born warrior, is going to be having his first title defense for his PXC Bantamweight Title against the contender from Japan, Michinori Tanaka.

After 10 months from his win for the PXC Bantamweight Championship Title, I can see more passion radiate in Crisanto’s eyes. This is the best Crisanto that I’ve ever seen. He is so ready to defend his belt. In spite of his rigid training in the Philippine National Police, he made sure his conditioning is still intact and we made sure his skills and techniques are honed and further developed. At this point, we would like to thank Police Regional Office Cordillera (PROCOR) Director, PChief Supt. Benjamin Magalong, Col. Joseph Adnol and his other Superior Officers for allowing Crisanto to be transferred in Baguio City, from Abra, to accommodate both his PNP training and his MMA training. We also appreciate very much their support and assistance to Crisanto’s preparation for his next fight.

This match against Tanaka is going to be the main event of the 8th installment of the Pacific Xtreme Combat in the Philippines and the 37th in all over the Asia-Pacific Region. This match is going to be a bang!

Another Team Lakay fighter who is on the card is Troy “The Hunter” Bantiag who will be fighting against Guamanian, Trevin Jones. Troy is a native of Kalinga. And as we all know, it is not a surprise if we see him fight as a real warrior because it runs in his blood- a true warrior blood. He is one of the protégés of Team Lakay, a future champion I can see. All we have to do is to guide him and develop his skills more. He is one tough fighter, like a young lion, playful and carefree that needs to be refined and nurtured. He has proven himself in the local and some big fights already with one loss on his record. He took this loss as a matured person and considered it as a challenge for him to be a better fighter. Watch out for him because along with his great athleticism, he has a great arsenal to show especially in his upcoming fight. Don’t blink!

The third but definitely not the least Team Lakay fighter on the PXC 37 card is Jerome “Torogi” Wanawan. This B.S. Education graduate from the University of the Cordilleras, is also well-known to be the “Piolo” of MMA here in the highlands. He has a great charisma inside the ring and cage. Everyone is on their feet and cheers of his name make him more energized. This micro quick fellow from the Mountain Province is so entertaining to watch. With his great skills of superb takedowns, judo stunts, striking and boxing, together with the development of his grappling skills, his fight with his opponent, Ernesto Montilla Jr, from Fight Works MMA in Laguna, is going to be one of the most anticipated fights of the event since they are both talented fighters and are both rising at their own pace to try to make a name on the MMA Map.

Marking their names on the MMA Map it is. This is one of the ultimate goals of these Team Lakay fighters as they do their best to make the fans appreciate how real MMA fighting is. This is the reason why they train painstakingly and seriously, to reach their dream to be known as a great fighter and a champion; to give the fans awesome entertainment; and to make our region and our country proud.

With this particular endeavour, we would like to thank the following for their support to the abovementioned Team Lakay fighters: Head Hunting Heritage Online Fight Shop; Calajo Restaurant, Catering and Tinapay; Dr. Dave Taclobao; Atty. Dante Bagsan; Arch. Lehman Cosalan; Gov. Nestor Fongwan; Tatak Maharlikano; 50’s Diner and the Philippine Sports Commission (Teacher’s Camp, Baguio City).

Of course we don’t forget to thank our supporters who are with us always in all of our undertakings.  We ask again for your support and prayers. This event will be aired live via Satellite at AKTV on IBC 13 on May 18. We hope that in our next piece, we are giving you three good news which make us once again proud of our roots. Till then!

Korean Top Team Intends To Impress Against Their Foes At PXC 37 On Saturday

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korean top team

Korean Top Team is one of powerhouse teams in Asian MMA. KTT is the home of the fast-rising UFC fighters such as welterweight prospect and the former PXC welterweight champion, Lim Hyun “The Ace” Gyun and the heavy-handed Dongi “The Ox” Yang. It is also the former gym of “The Korean Zombie” Chan Sung Jung.

KTT continues to produce world-class talents as the South Korean-based fight team will compete at one of the most exciting MMA promotions in Asia, the Pacific Xtreme Combat (PXC).

Two of the best KTT fighters will be seen in action on Saturday, May 18th, at the Ynares Sports Arena, Pasig City, Philippines, for the much-anticipated PXC 37.

PXC-37 will feature 8 professional bouts on May 18th at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City, and will be nationally televised LIVE on AKTV via IBC-13 on Saturday night. The event features some of the region’s best fighters from Japan, South Korea, Guam, Hawaii, and the Philippines.

hong seung

One of the youngest fighters from KTT, at 23 years old, Hong Seung Chan is arguably the most physically powerful fighters in the PXC and one of the best grapplers in the lightweight division. He loves taking his opponent down, use his wrestling skills and finish them with deadly ground and pound.

On Saturday, Seung Chan will make his third PXC appearance and looks to stay unbeaten as he takes on a very tough Hawaiian fighter, Reno Remigio.

According to KTT’s head coach, Dongjin Ha, Hong Seung Chan’s preparations for this fight is fantastic.

“Seung Chan’s training is good. He is very strong right now; I think he will knock his opponent out. He is one of the best young fighters in our gym.”

jang yong

Another KTT fighter is set to compete this weekend as “The Beast” Jang Yong Kim faces Hawaiian featherweight prospect, Nate Thorell for the semi-finals of the four-man featherweight tournament.

Kim is a remarkable fighter with very good ground game. He is a world-class fighter and he looks to get back to his winning ways when he faces Thorell.

Dongjin Ha believes that Kim will submit Thorell and advance to the tournament finals.

“Jang Yong Kim is a world-class fighter. He is very strong and very athletic. I just don’t get it that sometimes when he fights, there are fights that he is winning but when he gets punched hard in the face, he is getting tagged easily and lose it. But he is a very strong fighter and he is ready to beat Thorell.”

We can expect more KTT fighters who are going to be signed by the PXC and UFC in the years to come as they are slowly becoming the best MMA fight team in South Korea and arguably in whole of Asia.

PXC 37 will feature a world bantamweight championship between Crisanto “The Slugger” Pitpitunge and the undefeated Japanese submission specialist, Michinori Tanaka.

The first-ever Singaporean fighter to be signed  by the PXC, Syafiq “The Slasher” Abdul Bin Samad battles fighter/model from Brazil, Wesley Machado.

Also, two more Team Lakay fighters will showcase their talets as Jerome Wanawa, after his recent loss agaist Eugene Toquero, looks to redeem himself as he battles Fight Work MMA’s Ernesto Montilla Jr. Troy “The Hunter” Bantiag continues to hunt to get himself into the bantamweight title picture when he lock horns with very intimidating fighter in Trevin Jones.

The former King of the Cage lightweight champion and the current King of Pancrase featherweight champ, a seasoned veteran, Takumi Nakayama will make his PXC debut against Johnny Pecyna.

For more information, visit PXC.COM.PH