Left of Centre – MMA News from the Contenders

This is a monthly column that will address MMA news from organization other then the UFC.

By Mike S.

K1 Heroes Names Fighters for October 28^th Card

K1 recently announced nine fighters who will participate in the up coming October 28^th card originating from the Jangchung Gymnasium in Seoul South Korea.

Topping the company’s first Korean card is Korean / Canadian Middleweight standout Denis Kang. Kang is no stranger to the Korean fight scene having taken a title in the popular Spirit MC organization. It was thought by many fans that Kang would join the UFC, but after the American organization seemed less then interested in the former Pride fighter K1 proved to be a logical home for Kang.

Shamed Judoka Yoshihiro Akiyama makes his return to K1 after he apologized to FEG and MMA fans for resorting to less then honorable tactics in his December 31, 2006 fight with Kazushi Sakuraba. Before the Sakuraba fight Akiyama won the Heroes Light Heavyweight Tournament and will be looking to win back on the winning track and on the good side of MMA fans around the world.

The rest of the cast includes Jonnie Morton conqueror Bernard Ackah. Ackah will make his first appearance since his first round KO loss to Melvin Manhoef in July of this year. Brock Lesnar punching bag and international Judo star Min Soo Kim. Kim was recently victorious in his match with Korean K1 competitor Randy Kim via decision. Min Soo will look to keep his winning streak rolling as he enters this event on his home turf.

World #1 Decides to Stay Home

World pound for pound # 1 MMA fighter Fedor Emelianenko has reportedly signed with the Russian fight organization M-1. Reports have surfaced that the company has received a huge financial insurgence from and American entertainment company. M-1 reports that Fedor will headline their first event under new ownership in January or February 2008 which is reportedly taking place in America.

Babalu Using the Force

UFC cast away Renato “Babalu” Sobral has signed a multi-fight contract with the Strikeforce arm of the ProElite family. The signing was announced at the recent Strikeforce Playboy Mansion card when Babalu joined the broadcast team which included 185lb contender Frank Shamrock. This signing opens up a number of interesting light heavyweight match ups in the future for the Brazilian submission bad boy.

IFL Grandprix Not So Grand & Shamrock Released

The planned IFL Grandprix has lost some of its luster as two fighters set to participate were cut before the end. Fan favorites Ben Rothwell and Mike Whitehead were let go after both fighters could not come to a contractual agreement with the organization. This move may be an indication of the financial trouble the IFL is facing. Roy Nelson and Bryan Vetell have been tapped to replace Rothwell and Whitehead respectively.

Frank Shamrock has been released from his contract with the IFL and the San Jose Razorclawes will not be on the roster next year.

Kimbo vs. Tank Not Dead Just Yet

The fight that many MMA fans wish would just go away still has a pulse after being announced DOA only days ago. The original promoter Cage Fury Fighting Championships announced the fight was dead after and major investor had pulled out of a partnership. Fight is done right, not so…in steps the Palace Fighting Championships. The Lamoore California based company has extended the olive branch to both fighters and wants the fight to happen on their October 18^th card. No word as of yet if their has been an agreement with either fighter.