Martial Arts feed - This is Grimsby

Leading Karate coach gives masterclass to Laceby students

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 08:00:00 GMT

KARATE students flocked to Grimsby Leisure Centre as one of the country's leading coaches gave a tutorial in the 'art of the empty hand'.

Master Aidan Trimble, 7th Dan, was greeted with a packed venue for his class of Laceby and Grimsby Federation of Shotokan Karate Club students.

Six members who will be accompanying him as part of the Federation of Shotokan Karate British squad which is competing in an international competition in America next year were among those taking part.

Those players are Sophie Mellor, Megan Todd, Christopher Vaughan, Kyle Ailsby, Bryn Portas and Gareth Portas. Laceby club coach Sensei Neil Portas will also join them on their travels.

Master Trimble's first class was for black and brown belts.

He went through several katas (fixed forms and preset moves) before the senior students soon had would-be attackers flying as punches and kicks where blocked and countered using the moves they had learnt.

The second class, open to all karate grades, included basic drills, moves and katas – designed to prepare them for their next grading session which took place later the same day.

The examination saw a grading panel assess the students with belts and certificates dished out to those who were successful.

Those interested in learning karate at the Grimsby Federation of Shotokan Karate Club can contact 07936997481. For the Laceby club, ring (01472) 505831 or visit the website at www.lacebykarateclub.co.uk

Podium joy for two Kaizen No-Michi karate kids at national event

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 08:00:00 GMT

TWO karate kids from Grimsby's Kaizen No-Michi club climbed the podium at a national event.

Lacie Stembridge and Alice Hylton battled their way to third-place finishes at the FEKO 2010 National Children and Cadets Karate Championships in Nottingham.

Both students from the Hereford Technology School-based club came through several rounds to achieve podium positions in kumite (semi-contact fighting). More than 300 karate players took part.

Joining in with the girls' success, fellow students were awarded belts after successfully passing a grading session at their Grimsby stable.

Chief SCUKO instructor Sensei Steve Carless, 5th Dan, led the assessment, with assistance from instructors Sensei Andrew Jones, 4th Dan, and Jackie Jones, 3rd Dan.

Each grading began with Kihon – a combination of basic skills such as punches, kicks, and strikes.

Then students were tested in kumite – sparring with pre-determined attacks – before ending the session with kata, which comprises forms and preset moves.

Students Tony Walker and Julian Saunt performed well in their first grading and were praised for their focus and good spirit.

Beckham Tuplin, 10, who attempted his green belt (6th kyu), drew special praise from Sensei Carless, who said: "At his previous session he was a boy, but now I see a young man."

Kaizen No-Michi Karate Club, based at Hereford Technology School, holds classes on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursday evenings. For information contact Andrew or Jackie on 07790 011632 or 07989 331927, visit the club's website: www.kaizennomichi.co.uk or email kaizenno-michi@hotmail.co.uk

Fight Ministry boys showcase their skills as MMA comes to Cleethorpes

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 08:00:00 GMT

TONY Shield's victory proved one of the standout fights on the semi-pro card as MMA came to Cleethorpes for the first time.

Shields, representing Humberston's Fight Ministry gym, took on Adio Ergeseon from Team Redemption, in Leeds.

An unorthodox open style and heavy hands had given Shields two knockout victories from his previous two fights.

Against Ergeseon (2-1-0) Shields began with no guard, looking to counter-punch with overhand shots.

He slipped but managed to evade Ergeseon's blows before landing one of his own to open a cut below the Leeds fighter's left eye.

An overhand from Shields also found the target as Ergeseon sought a head tie to calm the pace.

It didn't get any easier for the away fighter in the second round. He began to shoot for the takedown without success as Shields' counter-punches continued to land while his defence stayed firm.

And midway into the third and final round, Shields landed a strong combination and the referee stepped in to award the Fight Ministry fighter the victory by technical knockout.

Meanwhile, Jack Grant, pictured and one of Fight Ministry's rising stars, was also in winning form at Cleethorpes Leisure Centre.

He had been due to fight Daniel Dwyer from Manvers Fight Factory for the vacant 70kg lightweight semi-pro BCF belt – but he had to withdraw with a hand injury.

Tom Pidcock, from Extreme MMA in Derbyshire, took his place and made his semi-pro debut.

Although an outside bet, Pidcock started brightly with a big double-leg takedown.

But Grant showed composure reversing from bottom position to take full mount where he immediately set up the triangle choke submission.

Grant followed that up with some big punches into Pidcock's mid-section and that gave him time to make the final adjustments to his choke hold. His opponent had no choice but to concede inside two minutes.

First round success for battling cage fighter James Bateman

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 08:00:00 GMT

GRIMSBY cage fighter James Bateman continued his rise up the Mixed Martial Arts ladder with his fourth professional victory as the sport made its debut in Cleethorpes.

The 25-year-old welterweight from Neal Lofts' Fight Ministry gym in Humberston beat Belgium's Damien Berteaux by technical knockout inside the first round at Cleethorpes Leisure Centre.

It was the Grimsby man's fifth professional fight following his initial impact on the MMA scene last year – when he represented Great Britain in the UFC TV series The Ultimate Fighter.

The British Cage Fighting-promoted event gave Cleethorpes its first taste of live MMA action, with Bateman's bout the last of 15 fights.

Bateman received a rapturous welcome on entering the cage, which was sponsored by Quayside Distribution.

Bertraux – whose record included three wins and two loses – quickly took the fight to ground, seemingly adhering to a game plan.

The shooto fighter – a well-versed wrestler – tested Bateman's defence against the cage.

But as Bertraux switched from a double to a one-leg set-up, Bateman countered with some strikes to the head which distracted the Belgian and allowed the Grimsby man an advantage in the clinch.

With a small trip the home fighter went for the takedown but his opponent escaped two attempts by Bateman to mount.

The Fight Ministry player maintained control and landed a big left which opened a cut while using a knee to keep Bertraux pinned to the canvas.

Bateman then secured the mount and after a big combination of punches the referee stepped in to award him the victory by technical knockout after two minutes and 40 seconds.

Grimsby's Louie Chapman was also victorious on the pro card, defeating Nathan 'chicken' Thompson in an exciting Under-70kg lightweight clash.

Chapman was keen to impress his home crowd after victory against the experienced Jay Gilby in 26 seconds on his professional debut in Birmingham back in May.

The 23-year-old was forced on the defence when Thompson, known for his jujitsu skills, pulled him down to the canvas with a leg wrap.

But Chapman – the more pro-active throughout – achieved top position which Thompson escaped – only to be snared in a triangle choke hold, which forced him to tap halfway into the first round.

Karate kids at Kaizen No-Michi School a step closer to black belts

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 08:00:00 GMT

KARATE kids at Kaizen No-Michi School of Shotokan Karate are one step closer to their black belts after passing a grading session with flying colours.

The students were put through their paces by Sensei Steve Carless, 5th Dan, and club chief instructors Sensei Andrew Jones, 4th Dan, and Jackie Jones, 3rd Dan.

The grading began with Kihon, a combination of basic skills such as punches, kicks, and strikes.

This was followed by Kumite, which involved sparring with pre-determined attacks, before students were tested on their Kata forms and preset moves.

Students Tony Walker and Julian Saunt looked confident, even though it was their first grading.

Beckham Tuplin, 10, gained his green belt (6th kyu) and Sensei Carless described him as "a confident and focused young man."

Each student received positive feedback.

Meanwhile, Luke Townsend and Lewis Simpson competed at the SCUKO National Senior League Karate Championships in the West Midlands.

It was their first outing in competition and both students performed well against seasoned competitors, Townsend achieving fourth position in the Kata event.

The club is based at Hereford Technology School, Westward Ho, Grimsby and holds classes on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 7pm–8.30pm.

For more information call 07989 331927 or visit www.kaizennomichi.co.uk.

Martial Arts star James Bateman ready for MMA homecoming in Cleethorpes

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 08:00:00 GMT

JAMES Bateman is relishing the chance to showcase his Mixed Martial Arts skills for the first time in Cleethorpes.

The 25-year-old Grimsby welterweight will represent Humberston's Fight Ministry Gym at Cleethorpes Leisure Centre on Saturday.

The British Cage Fighting V event will see professional and semi-pro fighters from across the country take on Neal Lofts' stable of fighters based north and south of the Humber.

Bateman's fifth professional fight is against Belgium's Damien Berteaux, whose record comprises three wins and two defeats.

The 25-year-old Shooto Belgium fighter is a replacement for Avi Jack – of Manchester's Predators MMA gym – who was set to make his pro debut against Bateman before opting to withdraw.

Bateman, who represented Great Britain in the UFC hit TV series The Ultimate Fighter last year, said he can't wait to deliver a knockout show in front of his local fans.

"I can't wait to fight on home soil," said Bateman.

"It's going to be a great show in Cleethorpes with a top fight card.

"It's also going to be great not having to travel far for a change.

"And I will also get the chance to fight in front of my friends and family."

MMA is the fastest growing sport worldwide – and to Bateman that comes as no surprise.

"It appeals to so many people because it is exciting for anyone who watches it – even if they are new to the sport.

"There are so many elements involved in MAA and so many ways to win a fight.

"It never gets boring."

Welterweight Louie Chapman, 23, will also return to action after his spectacular 26-second knockout pro debut win on Cage Warriors' Right To Fight show in Birmingham.

He faces Doncaster's Peter Hill, known for having a strong ground game.

Brazilian middleweight Marcus Silva will be looking to impress after making the switch from jujitsu to MMA.

Doors will open at 6.30pm, with the fights starting at 7pm. Tickets cost £30 and are available from the Fight Ministry gym on Wilton Road industrial estate, by calling Lofts on 0751956193, in person at Cleethorpes Leisure Centre and Solid Entertainment's Wellogate office, as well as online at www.solidentertainments.com.

Grant's semi-pro British title shot a top match-up, says coach Lofts

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 08:00:00 GMT

JACK Grant leads Fight Ministry's charge on the semi-pro card when British Cage Fighting V rocks Cleethorpes on Saturday.

Grant takes on Manvers Fight Factory's Daniel Dwyer, of Rotherham, in a battle for the British Cage Fighting lightweight semi-pro belt.

Neil Lofts, coach at the Humberston-based Fight Ministry gym, said: "This match is between arguably the two most talented youngster's the northern region has to offer.

"Both fighters look dangerous standing, and it could be the fight of the night.

"It will the gym's third semi-pro title shot as Grant looks to hang the belt alongside James Bateman's Storm Force middleweight belt and Louie Chapman's vacant 10th Legion welterweight belt."

Gavin Lofts, Adam Thompson and Hull-based Tony Shields will also represent Fight Ministry.

All three have two victories from two fights to their names.

And Shields' fight against Michael 'the assassin' Gabbitas will be a BCF welterweight championship belt elimination bout.

Four amateur fights also feature on the undercard, the pick being a BCF featherweight title clash between Hull-based Sam Wilkinson and Paul Gabbitas.

Both are unbeaten with 5-0-0 and 3-0-0 records respectively.

Two full-contact cage kickboxing bouts on the card will feature Grimsby Martial Arts Academy's Matt Merrick and Hull's Mark Vickers.

Merrick's full-contact kickboxing record is six wins and two losses.

Karate enthusiasts keep it in the family at grading

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 08:00:00 GMT

IT was a real 'family affair' for one karate club after three relatives passed their black belt examinations on the same day.

Mike, Tracy and Luke Easton are all members of Grimsby's RB Karate Academy, and put their years of training and dedication on the line at a quarterly grading last month.

Along with club-mate Lewis Jagger, the Easton's faced a panel of four grading examiners including club chief instructor and 3rd dan black belt Robert Bingham.

The quartet had to demonstrate the three 'K's' of karate – kihon (basic techniques), kata (set techniques), and kumite (fighting).

Bingham said: "All students on the day performed extremely well.

"They train three nights or more every week and it showed.

"It is quite unique to have a family of three all sticking with karate and progressing through the ranks where they can get their black belt together.

"Normally people don't have the same commitment and determination to make it through."

The Easton's and Jagger were four of 27 taking their belts on the day, with everyone passing and showing an exceptional level of ability.

Lewis, 11, and Luke, 10, have also gained international recognition, having been selected for the AMA National Squad and competing for their country.

Bingham continued: They've both had a great year, with Luke getting placed third in the Malta Open international competition earlier this year – they are a credit to the club and their association."

RB Karate Academy also recently sent a squad of seven to the AMA National Karate Championships, held at the Ponds Forge International Sports Centre in Sheffield – a team which returned with one gold, three silver and five bronze medals.

Luke Easton and Bingham both made it to the kata finals, competing at the same time on different mats. Luke narrowly missed the gold on the day picking up silver in a very close final, while Bingham secured the gold.

Jacob West and Robert Aitken both gained bronze in the same section of the kata, age 13-15.

In the kumite fighting group, Gareth West gained two silver medals, one in the over-78kg section and one in the open-weight category, while Bingham achieved a silver in the under-78kg category.

Bronze medals went to Lewis Jagger and Luke Easton in the pairs kata, as well as Jacob West for kumite.

RB Karate Academy is based at Reshapers Gym, Bowling Green Lane, Grimsby. The club has just started a new beginners class – for more information call Robert Bingham on 07894 632330.

Youcef Alfajare back on gold trail ahead of European Cup

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 08:00:00 GMT

YOUCEF Alfajare has his sights set on European Cup glory after a superb gold medal performance at the Kent International competition.

The Grimsby heavyweight judo star battled his way through four tough contests at Crystal Palace to take first place in the prestigious event.

And now the 25-year-old from Terry Alltoft's Grimsby Judo Club in Sutcliffe Avenue is gunning for more success at the Euro's in Istanbul later this month.

Following his return from a cruciate ligament knee injury in March, the victory gave Alfajare his second gold medal of the year and culminated in an impressive win over Mike Kondjo in the final.

Fellow Britons Ronnie Plumb and Samson Omonua took the bronze medals.

Reflecting on his performance, Alfajare said: "The final was a real battle and he was a very good fighter.

"It was my first time at the Kent International so I was really pleased to get the gold.

"It gives me a lot of confidence going into the European Cup.

"And in the second round I managed to beat the guy who I lost to at the British Open last month, so that was very satisfying as well."

Looking beyond the next event in Turkey, he added: "After the European Cup I am going to the Welsh Open in Cardiff at the end of August, and aiming for more success."

As reported in the Telegraph, Alfajare's burning ambition is to make the Great Britain team for the 2012 London Olympics.

This target was given a timely boost when the player was called up to a GB training camp in Dartford recently.

And if his training regime is anything to go by, he has a great chance of making the squad: " I train twice a week in Grimsby with my coach Terry (Alltoft) and, because I work a lot in London, train down there as well," he explained.

"I also work with the GB team once a month and do weights four times a week.

"It means I am constantly improving, both technically and in terms of my fitness. I'm really looking forward to the events coming up."

Olympics the aim for battling Grimsby star Youcef Alfajare

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT

HEAVYWEIGHT Grimsby judo star Youcef Alfajare is targeting a place at the 2012 London Olympics after recovering from a horrific knee injury.

Alfajare's rise in the sport was brought to a devastating halt when he suffered a cruciate ligament knee injury fighting in Holland two years ago this month.

But now the 25-year-old player from Terry Alltoft's stable in Sutcliffe Avenue is back in form and raring to make an impact on the mat at the Kent International on Sunday.

And ahead of the European Cup in Istanbul from July 18-21, Alfajare is determined to keep fighting to make the top.

The heavyweight has already reached the top of the British heavyweight rankings, but could face stiff competition from Edinburgh's Chris Sherrington – who he lost to in the English Open final – when the Olympics squad is selected.

Alfajare said: "It would be a great dream of mine to make the Olympics.

"The next few months will be important, with the Europeans coming up as well as the Welsh Open at the end of August.

"My main challenger is Chris, but I'm confident I can compete with him all the way if I keep fit and performing."

On his return from injury in March, Alfajare won silver at the English Open in Kendal before winning gold at the Irish Open.

Although he slipped out of last month's British Open in Crawley at the first-round stage, he hit back at the London International Judo Open by reaching the semi-finals – only a last-gasp error costing him the chance of a place in the final.

The heavyweight's form has led to a call-up from Great Britain's squad selectors for a training camp in Dartford.

Alfajare went on: "It was great to get silver on my comeback at the English Open.

"I'd been doing lots of work with Terry on my techniques and he was a great help during my return from injury.

"I trained a lot before my comeback, so I was feeling fit and fully recovered.

"I've just returned from a British training camp in Dartford where we did lots of work on techniques and sparring.

"It was really hard work but great preparation for the Kent International, so I'm looking forward to it."

Kirsty Guest prepares to fight for under-18s title on European stage

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT

GRIMSBY Judo Club star Kirsty Guest is today preparing for the biggest fight of her life.

The 16-year-old Under-70kg player is competing in the European Cadets Championship in the Czech Republican city of Tenice.

The competition is the continent's premier contest for players under the age of 18.

Rising star Guest beat three opponents in March to qualify, despite suffering tendon and ligament damage in her left ankle.

Now she is raring to show her courage on the mat once again.

Guest said: "It's the biggest competition so far in my life.

"To win a medal would mean everything.

"It will be tough. A lot of the girls from other countries are very tall and well built – some of them even look like men or body builders.

"But everyone has a chance of winning, it all comes down to how you perform on the day."

A three-day training camp at Kendal Judo Club, Cumbria, earlier this month saw Scunthorpe-born Guest train alongside some of Europe's top young players.

Guest commented: "We were out running at 7.15 each morning, with two-hour sparring sessions in the afternoons.

"We were basically out there battling each other – it was really intense."

Guest may have an advantage over her rivals, however, thanks to former Olympic judo star and Grimsby Judo Club player Sharon Rendle.

A former student of Guest's New Waltham-based coach Terry Alltoft, Rendle won bronze at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics and is a two-time winner of World, European and Commonwealth championships.

And after learning of Guest's qualification for the top European event, Rendle joined forces with Alltoft to devise a fitness regime – similar to the one she used in competition – to help the teenager's preparations.

Guest went on: "I know Sharon through Terry and saw how she used to fight in competitions.

"I really look up to her and she's a big inspiration for me.

"She doesn't practise judo any more because of injury, but she heard I was in the Europeans and came back to help, which was great."

So far, Guest's troublesome ankle injury has withstood the pressure.

"There has been pain now and again," she said.

"My ankle went three weeks' ago but I got it okay for Poland and I've just been babying when I can since then."

Coach Alltoft, who has travelled to Tenice to offer his support, added: "Kirsty has been a special talent for a long time.

"She's tenacious on the mat and as focused as you'd wish a young player could be."

Grimsby kickboxers praised for grading performance

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT

FIFTY-TWO students from Grimsby Freestyle Kickboxing Club have passed their latest grading exams with flying colours.

Some 36 junior students and 16 adults were able to proudly wear their new belts at a club presentation night.

And examiners were so impressed with the students' performances that they awarded extra medals to commemorate "outstanding effort".

The juniors obtained belts ranging from red to brown in colour after passing a one-and-a-half-hour exam.

The older students were put through their paces for two-and-a-half hours in tests across six different levels, including two brown grades.

GFKC head coach John Tomlinson said the juniors put "100 per cent" into their exam, adding that they needed physical and mental practice beforehand.

He added: "It is a tough exam, no matter how old you are.

"The exam tests your technical ability and skills within the martial arts, along with other attributes such as determination, attitude, personal character and endurance."

On the seniors' performance, Tomlinson said: "The adults proved just how much team spirit within the club pulls you through the most extreme situations.

"It was a tough two-and-a-half hour exam and by the end of it they all had put every last inch of effort into their performance which showed on the night."

For information on joining Grimsby Freestyle Kickboxing Club, contact Tomlinson on 0796106332 or visit www.gfkc.co.uk.

Youngsters boxing their way to fitness

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT

A GRIMSBY kickboxing club has thrown its weight behind a council-backed boxing fitness scheme to promote the benefits of martial arts.

John Tomlinson's Grimsby Freestyle Kickboxing Club, based in Orwell Street, is backing the non-contact exercise classes designed to get more youngsters moving.

Boxfit, backed by the NHS and supported by North East Lincolnshire Council, aims to tackle obesity and reduce anti-social behaviour among children aged eight-16.

Tomlinson, pictured, approached the scheme's founder, Paul Peacock, to host Boxfit in his Grimsby gym.

The GFKC coach said the sessions – held on Monday nights from 5-6pm – have proved popular, with some going on to bigger things in kickboxing.

Tomlinson, who wrote a new syllabus for the Boxfit students so they could enter grading exams, said the project is a "fantastic introduction towards a healthy lifestyle".

He added: "We decided to set up an academy class at our gym so kids from all the community centres who take part in the project can come and enhance their skills even more with the possibility of achieving belts also.

"Most kids take part just for fun, but there is an increasing group of young people who have come to our gym and opened their eyes to what they can achieve.

"Even the parents tell us how much their kids have improved.

"Four of the kids recently passed their first grade in kickboxing, which is fantastic.

"It shows them that by putting in effort and training, they can achieve something that they at first didn't believe would be possible."

Boxfit promoter Marie Bellamy added: "Boxfit is a non-contact exercise class, based on the principles of martial arts.

"We regularly attend school assemblies and are always blown away by the children's enthusiasm.

"Just a brief introduction to the sport has seen some of the children grow and develop enough motivation and discipline to begin their grading."

For more information on Boxfit visit www.box-fit.org.uk or contact Tomlinson 07961063321.

New Tetney club invites people to become martial arts masters

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT

MARTIAL arts enthusiasts wanting to reach the master class are invited to a new club in Tetney.

David Copinger, a Master in Wing Chun Kung Fu, has launched the Mui FAA Academy Wing Chun, based at Tetney Village Hall, on Humberston Road.

The martial art, formerly practised by Bruce Lee, is based on the ability to simultaneously block and strike when attacked, thus saving energy while maximising power.

Copinger has named the club after the Durham-based school he attended 25 years ago, in respect of his former teachers, Sifu Matthew Chapplow and Sifu Mark Stanbridge.

He formed the Grimsby-based Black Phoenix Wing Chun club in 1996, which closed down after the instructors Copinger handed the reigns over too went their separate ways.

Now Copinger – who has previously trained with renowned Wing Chun players such as Grand Master Samuel Kwok and Masters Tong Liu and Trevor Jefferson – is back to teach again.

He said: "Wing Chun is quickly becoming a very popular martial art.

"The most renowned person who learnt the art was Bruce Lee, who having practised up to the second of the three hand forms, went on to devise his own art, Jett Kun do.

"The art itself does not rely on physical strength.

"But correctly used, the techniques can mean even the smallest of students can easily defeat the biggest.

"The style uses economy of motion. It is a very close-range martial art.

"You only strike when you have to, and when you punch, the power is only inserted at the end of the punch.

"That was the secret behind the one-inch punch made famous by Bruce Lee.

"Wing Chun gives students confidence because they know how to defend themselves.

"I've found it helps my students avoid getting into fights as they have the confidence to walk away and feel that, if they were jumped on, they would be able to handle the situation."

Fitness training is included in the classes and Copinger says the atmosphere is relaxed, with "egos left at the door".

Classes are on Wednesdays from 7-9pm at Tetney Village Hall.

Each session costs £4.

For more information contact Copinger on 07908024010.

Fight Ministry's Louis lands 26-second knockout

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT

FIGHT Ministry's Mixed Martial Arts prospect Louis Chapman described his stunning 26-second knockout debut victory as the perfect start to his professional career.

The 23-year-old demolished Jay Gilby in Birmingham, his opponent's home town, in an ESPN-televised fight night promoted by Cage Warriors.

Right to Fight – one of the biggest MMA shows seen in Europe this year – was held in a 2,000-seat custom-build arena within the National Exhibition Centre.

James Bateman also cashed in for Neal Lofts' Humberston-based Fight Ministry gym, beating Ronan McKay on a unanimous decision at welterweight.

Chapman's walk-on music – Natasha Bedingfield's hit 'I Bruise Easily' – was a personal joke, but he walked away from this fight without a scratch.

A fierce left-hook from the Grimsby lightweight seconds into the bout was enough to floor his opponent before referee Marc Goddard stepped in as Chapman began to rain down more shots.

"I'm extremely happy," said Chapman. "We spent weeks going over the first phase of the fight and it went exactly how we were hoping.

"I started off slowly to measure him up, and as he came in with a right-hand I slipped the shot and threw my left hook – which landed before he had chance to think about getting his hand back to his chin.

"It couldn't have gone any better.

"It was exactly what we have been working on in training.

"The work Neal and James have put in with me clearly paid off."

Bateman, 25, said he always felt comfortable during the three rounds against experienced Irishman McKay.

He added that he was not too disappointed the knockout eluded him: "I don't like to leave it in the hands of the judges if I can help it, but I think I made a good impression and it was a great fight to watch.

"I knocked Ronan down in the first, nearly finished him off with an arm bar in the second, and managed to sweep him on to his back in the third and control the fight from there."

Fight Ministry coach Lofts said: "It was a solid performance from James after he struggled with a severe head cold only days before the fight.

"It was also a great confidence-boosting debut win for Louis."

The headline fight saw German Pascal 'Panzer' Krauss maintain his undefeated record against Scotland's John Quinn.

Krauss claimed the Cage Warriors Welterweight Championship belt left vacant by Dan 'The Outlaw' Hardy who has joined the America-based UFC circuit.

English kickboxing champ John Lee wants more titles

Thu, 27 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT

KICKBOXER John Lee's intense training regime made all the difference as he punched and kicked his way to his first ever WAKO English title.

The Grimsby Martial Arts Academy fighter battled to a unanimous points victory over Doncaster's Phil Ayres and already has his sights on a British title rematch with the formidable Audi Kinga in October.

The middleweight (72-75kg) encounter in Basildon saw Lee and Ayres slug it out for the full five rounds before all three judges awarded the World Association of Kickboxing Organisations English belt to the Grimsby man.

"It was a real tough fight and he was a very tough opponent. He rocked me in the first minute but I came back at him and my fitness told in the end," explained Lee.

"That was the difference really – I've been working really hard on my fitness with Wayne Patterson at the club and doing lots of pad work.

"I trained for six weeks for this fight, twice a day and I've got to say a massive thank you to Wayne and Mike Blythin for their help.

"Thanks to the fans that travelled all the way down to Essex to support me as well, that means a lot to me.

"It was quite an explosive fight – real no-holds barred stuff – and there were some good punches and kicks going in.

"But I was confident I had won it at the end because I had stuck to my game plan.

"I was really happy because that's what I've trained for and everyone at the club have been working for – it's a real team effort with these guys and I'm just one part of that."

The encounter was Lee's first action since his unsuccessful shot at the WAKO British title in December – a bout that ended in a points defeat to multi-title holder Kinga.

The opportunity to have another crack at the highly-rated Springhealth Kickboxing Gym fighter is a exciting one for Lee.

He said: "I gave him a good fight last time but when I look back his fitness told over mine – I learned a lots of lessons from that fight and realised I had to raise my fitness in order to make that step up in class.

"I believe I can beat him now and I am much more determined than I was the first time around.

"Hopefully I will also be selected for the England team. That's picked in July and it would be great to get on the team for the World Martial Arts Games in Beijing or the European Championships later this year."

Fighters victorious

Mon, 24 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT

GRIMSBY Mixed Martial Arts fighters James Bateman and Louie Chapman were both victorious in a televised showdown on Saturday night.

The pair, representing Neal Lofts' Humberston-based Fight Ministry gym, cruised to victories at Birmingham's National Exhibition Centre.

The show, called Right to Fight, was screened live across 40 countries by ESPN.

Welterweight Bateman, 25, beat Northern Ireland's Ronan McKay by unanimous decision after three rounds.

Chapman, making his professional debut at lightweight, enjoyed a stunning knockout victory against local boy Jya Gilby.

The 23-year-old sent his opponent crashing to the canvas after landing a fierce left-hook just 25 seconds into the contest.

Fight Ministry duo James Bateman & Louie Chapman's big screen test

Sat, 22 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT

TWO Grimsby fighters are to feature in a groundbreaking televised Mixed Martial Arts show set to be watched by millions tonight.

James Bateman and Louie Chapman will represent Neal Lofts' Humberston-based Fight Ministry gym at Birmingham's National Exhibition Centre.

ESPN will air Right to Fight – set to be one of the biggest MMA events ever held in Europe – to 40 countries.

The showdown in the West Midlands has come about after a merger between two promoters: 10th Legion Championship and Cage Warriors.

The latter is particularly renowned, having produced well-known MMA players such as Dan Hardy and Paul Daley, who are now big names in America's Ultimate Fighting Championship.

Bateman, 25, will take on Northern Ireland's Ronan McKay in the cage as he strives to continue to make headway in MMA – currently the fastest growing sport both worldwide and in the UK.

And Chapman, 23, will be making his professional debut at lightweight against Jya Gilby, of Birmingham's Ultimate Training Facility.

Bateman launched his professional career after reaching the final stages of the UFC Contender USA v UK show, screened on Virgin One last year.

And now the welterweight is relishing another chance to shine on television.

He said: "It's going to be a stacked-out fight card and I'm really looking forward to it.

"It is going to be one of the biggest shows in the UK this year.

"I know my opponent has a good ground game and some smart submissions, but I think I'll be far too strong for him in the wrestle, and another strength will be my striking style.

"I want to keep progressing and improving and will hopefully one day get the chance to fight in UFC events abroad, such as in American or Japan."

Chapman says he won't get stage fright when he makes his pro debut tonight.

The fighter, who won the 10th Legion Under-77kg Welterweight semi-pro championship belt in Hull in February, is ready to raise his game for the occasion.

He said: "It's the perfect opportunity to impress a lot of people. If I put in the good performance I'm capable of I should be all right.

"My opponent comes from a traditional Mu Thai background and is good at grappling. But he's not dangerous as such.

"He might use his experience to take the fight the distance and use his grappling by taking the fight to ground.

"I've been working very hard in training and feel my striking is more threatening.

Lofts, head coach at Fight Ministry, based in Wilton Road, Humberston, is delighted to have two of his fighters involved in the NEC show.

He said: "It's one of the strongest fight cards I have seen in the short history of MMA in this country – and it's great to have two of my guys in the mix.

"Both James and Louie have looked good in sparring and are in excellent condition."

Winning fighters in race for Mixed Martial Arts pro ranks

Tue, 18 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT

FIGHT Ministry coach Neal Lofts says the race is on for the Mixed Martial Arts professional ranks among his talented stable of fighters.

Adam Thompson, Jack Grant and Gavin Lofts all notched their second victories at semi-pro level in a fight night at the Virtual Ice Arena in Rotherham.

At present, James Bateman, 24, a finalist in Virgin One's US UFC Contender TV Series The Ultimate Fighter last year, is the only pro fighter at the Humberston stable.

But Lofts believes it won't be long before more of his fighters join the paid ranks.

He said: "It's a race for the pro ranks for these fighters.

"I wouldn't like to bet on who will make it first.

"For a former judo player, Adam is looking dangerous on his fight.

"Jack put in the fight of the night, while it was another slick performance from Gavin – a cool customer.

Welterweight Thompson beat Doncaster's Ryan Beven in two rounds after dominating the clinch and taking his Yorkshire rival to the ground at will.

The judo black-belt, from Terry Alltoft's renowned Grimsby stable, was in control of the first two rounds on his feet – using his jab and low round kick to good effect.

Beven failed to come out for the third round, handing the Grimsby fighter victory.

Eighteen-year-old lightweight Grant, matched against Ben Cross of Sheffield-based Wild Wild MMA, managed a knockout victory one minute into the third round.

An exciting first round saw Grant take a dominant position in the clinch before making a big suplex throw, but Cross recovered with a pull guard.

Grant, though, found another gear in the second, trading round kicks and achieving the take-down.

Cross counter-attacked with his back to the floor with arm bar and triangle choke submission attempts.

In the third, Cross finally capitulated through tiredness after Grant landed a big far leg low round kick.

Welterweight Lofts dominated York opponent Oscar Hazzar from the off, using his dangerous jab.

The 6ft 4ins Grimsby man picked his shots, forcing Hazzar into making the take-down.

But Lofts took a commanding high-mount position and a slick arm bar move gave Hazzar no option but to concede two minutes and forty seconds into the first round.

Steven Bingham also fought in South Yorkshire for the Lofts' Wilton Road-based gym, winning his debut amateur fight at welterweight.

Bingham's aggressive wrestling game saw him claim victory against Thorne-based Asylum MMA fighter Craig Lapping after two five-minute rounds.

The 24-year-old amateur, making his Fight Ministry debut, proved too strong in the clinch.

And after a dominant two rounds the judges felt the fight didn't need to go to a third – and awarded Bingham a unanimous victory.

Lofts added: "Steve made a great debut and is another promising fighter."

Cheyne books place at World University Championships

Tue, 18 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT

GRIMSBY teenager Cheyne Phillips has qualified to compete in two events at this summer's World University Karate Championships.

The 19-year-old Fix N' Kiks member will travel to Podorica, Montenegro, on July 15, to represent the Cleethorpes club in kata and fighting categories.

Sensei Phillips (pictured) – who was forced to retire through injury when fighting for a bronze at the World Karate Championships in Morocco – booked his places in the competition by two podium finishes at the British Universities & Colleges Sport Games.

He faced high-quality opposition which included Reece Taylor, who became England's first gold kata champion at the 34th European Cadet

& Junior Championships, in February 2007.

And Taylor won the kata event in the BUCS at Ponds Forge, Sheffield, with Phillips taking bronze.

After the Cleethorpes fighter lost his chance of gold in the fighting event, losing to an unlucky fifty-fifty body punch points decision, he hit back to win another bronze.

Phillips also claimed three medals at the Cardiff Nationals.

Against unfamiliar Welsh opposition, he won silver in the individual competition, as well as bronze medals in open weight fighting and in kata.

And an Amateur Martial Association charity competition in Bradford added more medals to Phillips' haul – as the teenager brought back to North East Lincolnshire a gold from a team kumite, a silver in kata and a bronze from his individual kumite.

Fix N' Kiks are planning to launch a children's beginners course lead by two of the youngest English Karate Federation's recognised coaches: Cheyne Phillips, third Dan, and Karl Codd, second Dan. For more information, phone (01472) 602888.