November 12, 2001
Veteran’s Day FCF would like to thank, honor & remember those brave soldiers who have served their country. |
Stiebling Strikes Gold in Venezuela American Defeats Four Brazilians En Route to International Vale Tudo Championship; Vocal Venezuelan Audience Treated to Evening of Incredible MMA Action By Aaron Crecy CARACAS–It was a night of amazing discoveries, as several of mixed martial arts’ future stars gleamed brightly. After all was said and done, it was American Alex Stiebling who stood above all others, the winner of the 16-Man Absolute Class IVC Venezuela International Vale Tudo Championship and the accompanying $10,000 purse. Behind the strength of the submissions — two heel hooks and a rear naked choke — and a stunning knockout, Stiebling, of the Integrated Fighting Academy in Indianapolis, succeeded in winning the affection of the once pro-Brazilian crowd as he laid claim to the title of this inaugural event. With half of his hair dyed blue in a patriotic gesture, Stiebling infused energy into the arena with every entrance, dancing his way through a throng of adoring fans and into the ring. Then, he proceeded to electrify the audience with each courageous performance, displaying strong powerful strikes, outstanding wrestling skills, superb submissions and an extremely aggressive, attacking style. But Stiebling was not the only fighter to impress, as a trio of young Brazilians also raised eyebrows. Runner-up Angelo Araujo — who was previously undefeated — delivered a rousing performance, displaying a solid combination ground and standup skills along with extraordinary conditioning and resolve. Meanwhile, semi-finalist Evangelista "Cyborg" Silva Rodrigues performed admirably as well, exhibiting devastating power and unusual strength. Similarly, Jefferson "Tank" da Silva proved to be a force in the ring, with strong standup and ground skills to go with uncommon strength. To a man, each of the fighters was pleased as the event drew to a close. They produced an evening of action-packed fights that kept the audience on its feet throughout and then mingled with the crowd after the event, signing autographs and posing for photographs. After a week at a five-star hotel, television and radio appearances, dressing rooms overflowing with fruit and juices and an outpouring of appreciation from those in attendance, the fighters — most of them up and coming — happily soaked up the star treatment. Local promoters Mario d’ Alfonso and Jesus Santana and IVC representatives Sergio Batarelli and Mauricio Netto are to be commended for putting together a thrilling MMA event. If this venture continues, MMA fans can look forward to tremendous match-ups as the next generation of stars put their skills to the test against one another in various South and Central American venues. Click here for fight summaries & post-fight photos |
From the event’s promoter: Results from The Danger Zone Fight Night at Broadripple Place Nov. 11, 2001 Ft. Wayne, IN. The Danger Zone will return to Broadripple Place Jan. 13, 2002. Amateur fights two by 5 minute rounds. Pro bout two by 6 minute rounds wtih a 3 minute OT if needed. Single Bouts Female Bout Pro Bout 136-150lb. Amateur Tournament Semi Finals Finals 151-165 lb. Amateur Tournament Semi Finals Finals 166-180 lbs. Finals 181-195 lb. Finals 196-210 Finals 211-above Finals |