7/1/10 - Fight Announcements

Capital City Cage Fight Championships – Ten Team Murcielago fighters are scheduled to battle.

July, 31 2010
Shodown at the Summit - John Villegas, Dequan Townsend and Skeeter Kettles are pre-matched.

August 28, 2010
Best of the Best – Five to Seven Team Murcielago members will compete against Michigan’s most notable MMA fighters from various Michigan based promotions.

September 11, 2010
Capital City Cage Fight Championships – Ten to Fifteen Team Murcielago fighter are scheduled to compete.

September 18, 2010
Donofrio MMA – Tuf Wars 3 USA vs. Canada at the Meadow Brook Music Festival.

6/12/10 - CHarris Edwards III – 2010 WKC World Kickboxing Championships

Team Murcielago is proud to announce that Harris Edwards III won the 2010 WKC World Kickboxing Championships – United States National Team Qualifier in his respected continuous and point divisions. As a member of the United States National Team, Harris will proceed with his next international round of competition beginning October 23, 2010 through November 2, 2010 in Albufeira, Portugal. Harris Edwards III is 15 years of age and widely considered to be the future of Team Murcielago, and he is the prodigy son of Master Harris Edwards Jr. (9th Degree Black Belt) who is a head coach with Team Murcielago.

5/22/10 - CCCFC – Undisputed Results

Team Murcielago was in full force Saturday May 22, 2010! Andy Carter captures the Capital City Cage Fight Championships 185 lb. belt and Elsa Gallegos retains her 135 lb. Women’s title.

Undisputed Results:
Kevin Shacks – Decision 3rd rd. (winner)
Allen Basic – KO 1st rd. (winner)
Marion James – KO 1st rd. (winner)
Dana Maynard – Decision 3rd rd. (loss)
Thomas White – KO 1st rd. (winner)
Zach Shaw – RNC 1st rd. (winner)
Tyler Gillispie – Decision 3rd rd. (loss)
Andy Carter – Decision 3rd rd. (winer- New 185 lb. Champ)
Elsa Gallegos – TKO 1st rd. (winner- 135 lb. Womens Champ)

4/10/10 - Combat X “No Regrets” – Results

Dequan “The Tarantula” Townsend defended his Combat X - 170 lb. Championship Belt by TKO’ing Brian Bonnici early in round one. The referee halted the action due to strikes.

Combat X result:
1. Dequan Townsend – TKO/Referee Stoppage due to Strikes 1st rd. (winner)

4/9/10 - XCC 51 – Results

Team Murcielago turned “The Lights Out In Lansing”! Seven Team Murcielago fighters enter the cage and seven exit the cage as winners. It was the perfect storm, 7-0.

Results for XCC 51 are as follows:
1. Mario James – TKO/Referee Stoppage due to Strikes 1st rd. (winner)
2. John Villegas – Rear Naked Choke 1st rd. (winner)
3. Travis Travesty – Triangle Submission 1st rd. (winner)
4. Thomas White – Rear Naked Choke 1st rd. (winner)
5. Ben Sutton – Rear Naked Choke 1st rd. (winner)
6. Dequan Townsend – Knock Out 1st rd. (winner)
7. Steve Glasgow – Unanimous Decision 3rd. rd (winner)

3/17/10 - 2 New Team Murcielago - Champions

Team Murcielago wasted little time taking Mid Michigan by storm this past weekend. When all was said and done, two interim Capital City Cage Fight Championships belts were awarded to Tyler Gillispie and Dequan Townsend.

Furthermore, Team Murcielago stamped its action packed weekend with memorable knockouts, technical knockouts, submissions and unanimous decision wins. The end result was an amazing 12-1 weekend.

Fight results are as follows:

Cagemaster Promotions (No Escape)
1. Joe Patrick – 3rd round unanimous decision (win)
2. Kevin Shacks – 1st round knockout (win)
3. Thomas White – 1st round technical knockout (win)
4. Josh Shaw – 1st round technical knockout (win)
5. Chad Guilford – 1st round technical knockout (win)

Capital City Cage Fight Championships (Defending The Throne)
1. Tyler Gillespie (Interim 155 lbs. Champion) – 3rd round unanimous decision (win)
2. Dequan Townsend (Interim 170 lbs. Champion) - 2nd round knockout (win)
3. Cody Williams – 1st round referee stoppage (loss)
4. Ben Sutton – 3rd round armbar submission (win)
5. Steve Glasgow – 1st round guillotine submission (win)
6. Skeeter Kettles – 1st round armbar submission (win)
7. Zach Shaw – 1st round knockout (win)

XCC 48 (Lights Out In Lansing 2)
1. Skeeter Kettles – 1st round rear naked choke submission (win)

3/5/2010 - Justin “The Moose“ Hartig – Reno Extreme Fights

Team Murcielago professional MMA fighter Justin “The Moose” Hartig is next up to battle at the Reno Extreme Fights event planned for March 27, 2010 at the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino. Fight details will follow.

Note: In preparation for the 3/27/10 fight, Justin has had the honor of training at the Reno, Nevada Lion’s Den with UFC Hall of Fame fighter and veteran coach Ken Shamrock.

3/3/10 - CCCFC - Lansing, MI

Lansing, Michigan... we are back! Eight amateur Team Murcielago fighters are scheduled to battle at the Capital City Cage Fight Championships “Defending The Throne” March 13, 2010 event which is located at the Lansing Center.

The following Fighters are scheduled to compete – John Villegas, Zach Shaw, Ben Sutton, Cody Williams, Dequan Townsend, Tyler Gillispie, Steve Glasgow, and Dan Lee.

3/1/10 - XCC 48 – Lansing, MI

Two Team Murcielago amateur fighters will be competing at the XCC 48 “Lights Out in Lansing 2” event which is sited at the Ramada Inn Saturday March 13, 2010.

The following fighters are scheduled to compete – Travis Travisty and Skeeter Kettles.

2/28/10 - Cagemaster Promotions – Jackson, MI

Six amateur Team Murcielago fighters are pre-matched for the March 12, 2010 Cagemaster Promotions “No Escape” event which is located at the Jackson County Fairground Event Center, 200 W. Ganson St., Jackson, MI.

The following fighters are scheduled to fight – Kevin Schacks, Joe Patrick, Alen Basic, Chad Guilford, Josh Shaw and Thomas White.

2/25/10 - Jeremy “The Czar” Czarnecki – Fight Announcement

Professional MMA fighter Jeremy “The Czar” Czarnecki is scheduled to battle at the XCC 46 “Beat Down at the Ballroom 9” which is Presented by Cage Combat & CLIP Saturday March 6, 2010.

1/20/10 - “The Czar” pro debut at The Palace

Team Murcielago is pleased to announce that Jeremy “The Czar” Czarnecki is scheduled to make his professional MMA debut January 30, 2010 at The Palace of Auburn Hills.

“The Czar” is widely considered to be Michigan’s top 155 lb. amateur MMA fighter. Furthermore, he had a stellar amateur record and has long awaited his opportunity to make his professional mixed martial arts debut.

Donofrio MMA in association with Impact Fight league will be hosting the January 30, 2010 event at The Palace of Auburn Hills. There will be 11 professional fights and two amateur bouts. Donofrio MMA shows are a must see, and there is no doubt that this show will be the crème de la crème of all Michigan’s MMA shows.

If you are interested in purchasing tickets for “The Czars” professional debut, please respond to the following link: http://www.myspace.com/teammurcielago. Thank you.

1/19/10 - Justin Hartig fight announcement

The long awaited MMA return of Justin “Moose” Hartig has come to an end.

In some cases, professional Mixed Martial Arts can be a frustrating and bumpy road for MMA fighters. Fights are cancelled, promotions are here one day, and gone the next. There are injuries and there is a constant financial struggle for those fighters who have committed themselves to the sport full time. Although, in the event that a fighter catches a good break and manages to keep busy, there are many rewards for patience and perseverance.

Fortunately for Justin, the aforementioned bumpy road has ended. The Team Murcielago professional MMA fighter has a new home in Nevada, and he is now living in a MMA hotbed. And as a result, “Moose” is scheduled to make his Mixed Martial Arts return January 30, 2010 with the Reno Xtreme Fights promotion. As of this date, an opponent has not been named for the “Moose”. However, he is prepared for battle and anxiously ready to resume his MMA career.

1/16/10 - Murcielago Dominates Lansing

Team Murcielago is a traveling fight team, and on any given weekend if you have an opportunity, please take the time to observe why many consider this fight team to be Michigan’s most visible and successful amateur MMA fight team.

Unfortunately, because Team Murcielago takes part in MMA promotions that are located throughout the State of Michigan and abroad; we are often competing away from our home town of Lansing, Michigan for several months at a time. However, that changed very quickly January 16, 2010. Because Team Murcielago was in full force with ten (10) fighters ready to battle at the Capital City Cage Fight Championships. Unfortunately, due to various and unknown reasons, Team Murcielago only had five of their team members matched up. Nevertheless, Team Murcielago enjoyed its hometown competition and welcomed the opportunity to compete back home in the presence of our hundreds of family, friends and associates. Thank you Lansing!

Lansing Center Result:
1. Josh Shaw – Unanimous Decision 3rd rd. (win)
2. Zach Shaw – Rear Naked Choke 1st rd. (win)
3. Mario James – TKO/Referee Stoppage due to Strikes 1st rd. (win)
4. Andy Carter – TKO/Referees Stoppage due to Strikes 1st rd. (win)
5. Charles Shearer – Guillotine Submission 1st rd. (loss)

Note: Team Murcielago fighters Steve Glasgow, Chad Guilford and Dequan Townsend opponents did not report for their pre matched fights. Allen Vasek suffered a work related injury that prevented him from competing, and Tyler Gillespie caught the flu bug.

11/21/09 - GECF XVI - Jennifer Kelly wins by Rear Naked Choke

Jennifer Kelly improved her amateur MMA record to 9-1 after she traveled to Warsaw, Indiana to take on Ashley Yoder at the Gladiator Elite Cage Fighting (GECF XVI).

The Co-Main Event attraction of the night featured Jennifer Kelly vs. Ashley Yoder. From the opening bell, Jennifer quickly showcased her tenacity and power as she initiated the action with some savvy boxing, followed by a picture perfect judo hip toss. Once she had her opponent on the mat, the two adversaries exchanged some crafty jui jitsu. In spite of this, Jennifer escaped two armbar submission attempts, connected with a vicious elbow and transitioned into a rear naked choke to end the fight one minute into the first round.

GECF XVI Result:
Jennifer Kelly - 1st round Rear Naked Choke (win)

11/14/09 - Donofrio MMA - Impact Fight League

Team Murcielago rocked the Palace of Auburn Hills and walked away with two convincing victories, as thousands of Michigan MMA fight fans enjoyed a full night of non-stop action and entertainment.

Josh Shaw was the first fight of the evening, and there is no doubt that he set the pace for all to follow. Josh absorbed a power shot by the taller Jordan Keyes at the beginning of the first round. However, he recovered quickly and showcased his dominant wrestling and ground-and-pound skills to capture a unanimous decision win at the conclusion of three hard fought rounds.

Tyler Gillispie stole the home town favorite - Rolland Saucedo's thunder as he escaped two standing guillotines. Following his second standing guillotine escape, Tyler slammed his opponent to the floor where he quickly worked to his challenger's back, and transitioned into a rear naked choke to end the fight in the first round.

Palace of Auburn Hills results:
1. Josh Shaw - Unanimous Decision (win)
2. Tyler Gillispie - 1st round Rear Naked Choke (win)

Note: Andy Carter weighed in for the event. Unfortunately, he had two opponents back out of their planned matchups.

11/5/09 - Kelly and Gallegos - Michigan's Best Female Fighters

Michigan's top female Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) amateur fighter, Jennifer Kelly has joined Team Murcielago!

Jennifer Kelly is an Eaton Rapids, Michigan native that currently owns an 8-1 record. Furthermore she is the current Capital City Cage Fight Championship and Ground and Pound - champion. Jennifer is arguably Michigan's most noticeable and active female fighter

Hard hitting and undefeated (5-0) Elsa Gallegos has joined Team Murcielago. Elsa has an extensive background in amateur boxing and has competed with the Michigan Golden Glove Association and is also a Capital City Cage Fight Champion.

Team Murcielago is honored that both of these female warriors have aligned themselves with its organization.

11/1/09 - PureSport - Affiliate Program

Murcielago MMA is pleased to announce that PureSport has extended sponsorship opportunities and selected Michigan's premier MMA fight team - Team Murcielago as an Affiliate Program.

About PureSport:
PureSport™ Nutritional Performance Sports Drinks with Protein: Human Performance Labs™ (HPL)'s superior nutritional performance sports drinks with protein are developed for athletes of all types, from world class professionals to club sport amateurs and weekend warriors. Created by Dr. John Ivy, renowned Chairman of Health and Kinesiology at the University of Texas at Austin, PureSport Workout and PureSport Recovery formulas (patent pending) nutritionally enhance the human body's performance during and after strenuous athletic activity.

Please visit http://www.puresport.com/ for more information.

10/3/09 - FOX Sports Net (FSN) - Cage Combat MMA

Team Murcielago in association with Cage Combat MMA welcomed the FOX Sports Network back to the State of Michigan amateur Mixed Martial Arts fight scene with a full night of memorable submissions and knockout’s.

Seven Team Murcielago members showcased their MMA skills in front of an energetic sold out crowd at the Grand Rapids , Michigan Orbit Room.

Fox Sports Net (FSN) Results:
Matt Bobbio – 1st round head and arm triange submission (win
Zach Shaw – 1st round rear naked choke submission (win)
Tyler Gillispie – 1st round rear naked choke submission (win)
Josh Brown – 3rd round TKO (loss)
Thomas White – 3rd round split decision (loss)
Josh Shaw – 1st round rear naked choke submission (win)
Andy Carter – 1st round knockout (win)

The Cage Combat MMA – FOX Sports Net (FSN) taped delayed event will air Sunday October 18, 2009 from 9:00 PM -11:00 PM.

Note: Images of the Fox Sports Net (FSN) – Cage Combat MMA event can be viewed at http://delrioimages.com/

9/18/09 - TapouT - House

Justin "Moose" Hartig has returned back to Lansing, Michigan from his one month stay at the premier edition of the Donald "Cowboy" Cerrone and Leonard Garcia hosted TapouT House. The invitation only training camp was sited at the Albuquerque, New Mexico based Jackson's MMA.

Team Murcielago is pleased to announce that Justin successfully completed the TapouT sponsored training camp, and he has coordinated a return stay at the Tapout House. However, details of the return will be announced at a later time and date. Furthermore, Murcielago MMA is pleased to announce that sponsorship efforts for Justin "Moose" Hartig have been coordinated with a host of companies including and not limited to TapouT, Hitman Fight Gear, Liberty Fight Gear, Nutritox and Ed Hardy.

To view footage of the TapouT House, please visit http://www.cowboycerrone.net/

8/22/09 - The Road to Dubai - 4 Team Murcielago Fighters Qualify!

Team Murcielago is Proud to anounce that Jeremy "The Czar" Czarnecki, John "One Speed" Villegas, Steve Glasglow, and Andy "Smiling Assassin" Peterson have all officially qualified for The Road to Dubai! Check back soon for more details.

Click Here to Visit the Xtreme Kombat League (XKL) Website

8/15/09 - The Road to Dubai - Xtreme Kombat League (XKL)
Courtesy of http://mmaactionlive.com/

Team Murcielago expands its international fan base to the country of Dubai:

Extreme Kombat League hosted a world class event at Eastern Michigan University, and Team Murcielago fighters did not disappoint. With former UFC world champion and celebrity Road to Dubai guest coaches Pat Miletich and Dan "The Beast" Severn on site, Team Murcielago aggressively showcased a full night of memorable submissions, technical knockouts and KO's to an international mixed martial arts fan base.

Notable news: Jeremy "The Czar" Czarnecki rocked the house with an action packed main event win (2nd round rear naked) over hard hitting Rick Morais. John "One Speed" Villegas showcased an impressive Muay Thai clinic, with his first round Knock Out win over Mitchell Rice.

The Road to Dubai - Results:
1. Jeremy "The Czar" Czarnecki - Rear Naked Choke 2nd rd. (win)
2. John "One Speed" Villegas - Knock Out 1st. rd. (win)
3. Steve Glasglow - Technical Knock Out 1st rd. (win)
4. Andy "Smiling Assassin" Peterson - Armbar Submission 1st. rd. (win)
5. Joel "Little Juggernaut" Chapman - Split Decision (loss)

7/25/09 - "The Czar" leads the way!

Ionia, MI (Outdoor MMA event) - Team Murcielago captured the praise of the thousands of fans in attendance at the Cage Combat MMA Fight Series, sited at the Ionia Free Fair - Grandstand.

Veteran Team Murcielago fighter Jeremy "The Czar" Czarnecki (8-1) led the way by defeating previously unbeaten Dan Hernandes of Grand Rapids - Team Mash by unanimous decision. With the momentum of their veteran teammate on their side, Team Murcielago fighters followed with dominant performances and showcased why many consider Team Murcielago a statewide MMA team favorite.

Cage Combat Results:
1. Jeremy Czarnecki - Unanimous Decision (win)
2. Mario James - 2nd Rd. TKO (win)
3. Thomas White - 3rd Rd. TKO (win)
4. Cody Williams - 2nd Rd. TKO (win)
5. Steve Glassglow - 1st Rd. TKO (win)
6. Alan Basec - Split Decision (loss)

7/18/09 - Three win by TKO!

Hooters, Lansing MI - Zach Shaw (1st rd.), Andy Carter (1st rd.) and Jared Thill (2nd rd.) each win their MMA debuts by TKO.

7/11/09 - Johnson wins 3rd Title

Brandon Johnson (9-1) defeats Justin Jaymes via Anaconda Choke in the 2nd round to become the new Xtreme Cagefighting Championship (XCC) 170 lbs. champion.

Note: Brandon has won amateur 170 lbs. championship titles with the following promotions - Capital City Cagefighting Championship, Gladiatorial Games Fighting Championship and Extreme Cagefighting Championship (XCC).

6/19/09 - King of the Cage – Encore

Soaring Eagle Casino - Brandon Johnson defeats William Knox by Darce Choke at 1:34 of round 1.

6/12/09 - Team Murcielago - Pro Outlook

When you enter the Team Murcielago dojo, you have to make an informed decision; do you continue to stay and embrace the intimidating task of training with a team that has built a solid MMA track record of success at the highest level, or do you opt out and conform to a mediocre Mixed Martial Arts form of training. Fortunately, for the select few who are chosen to represent Team Murcielago, they avoid the latter of the two choices.

From an observer's standpoint, the sound of thai pads are heard echoing throughout the dojo on training days. In most cases, it can be described as a deafening sound and sometimes nerve-racking feeling watching Team Murcielago fighters practice their craft. The irony surrounding the Team Murcielago success, is that there is very little glitz and glamour to the training facility. However, there is an overwhelming abundance of knowledge, history and success with the team. On any given day, you can witness how and why this team has a demonstrated track record of MMA success simply by observing their training regimen.

Team Murcielago is headed by owner and Chief Second - Joaquin Rodriguez. He is a UFC veteran trainer that has produced world class talent, and he is assisted by MMA industry veterans Al Williams, Scott Hahn and Harris Edwards. Collaboratively, this knowledgeable group of MMA trainers has created a winning recipe for success on a local, regional and national competition level. Therefore, there is no surprise that this camp continues to grow and attract the best MMA talent this area has to offer.

Because the state of Michigan is in the final stages of completing professional Mixed Martial Arts regulation, Team Murcielago is gearing up for the release of several professional fighters stateside. No longer will Team Murcielago fighters have to search abroad for professional Mixed Martial Arts competition. Once the regulation in the State of Michigan is finalized, Team Murcielago will have an opportunity to perfect their skill and expand on their careers in their home territory. Undoubtedly, the best is yet to come, from the ever improving and expanding Team Murcielago.

6/11/09 - Revgear- Jeremy Czarnecki

Team Murcielago is pleased to announce that Jeremy "The Czar" Czarnecki (7-1) has been chosen by the Burbank, California based Revgear - Future Legends Sponsorship Program.

6/6/09 - Gillispie wins by TKO

Lansing, MI - Tyler Gillispie improved his amateur MMA record to 2-1 by defeating a game opponent by TKO in the third round of action.

In other notable news:

Previously unbeaten Brandon Johnson (7-1) dominated powerhouse Sean Baker (9-0) for two highly entertaining ground-and-pound rounds. However, Sean managed to deliver a power shot that caused the referee to halt the action midway through the third round. Despite the unpopular and highly controversial stoppage, Brandon has extended an open invitation to Sean Baker for an inevitable rematch.

5/4/09 - Gladiatorial Games II - "Champions"

Team Murcielago closed the Gladiatorial Games II in spectacular fashion May 2, 2009 by winning both of the featured 145 and 170 pound championship bouts.

In the main event of the evening, Brandon Johnson showcased a wicked and memorable Anaconda choke in the first round of action over "Stone Cold" Joe Bloom (5-2). The victory improved Brandon's MMA record to 6-0. As a result of most recent victory, Brandon currently holds two 170 lb. championship belts in two separate Michigan based promotions.

Jeremy "The Czar" Czarnecki added to his title belt collection with his championship (145 lb.) win over Derrick "The Real Deal" O'Neal (7-2). The Czar improved his record to 7-1, courtesy of his signature and uncontested ground-and-pound skills that led to the second round TKO win.

4/30/09 - John Villegas - Revgear

Team Murcielago is pleased to announce that undefeated MMA fighter John Villegas (5-0) has been chosen by the Revgear - Future Legends Sponsorship Program. John was selected over thousands of applicants by the Burbank, California based sponsor.

Note: Justin "Moose" Hartig has been participating with the Revgear - Future Legends Sponsorship Program since 2008.

3/31/09 - Justin Hartig - Ultimate Fighter 10 Casting Call

Professional Team Murcielago fighter Justin "Moose" Hartig is in his final stages of preparation for The Ultimate Fighter 10 casting call on April 6 in Seattle, Washington.

Spike TV officials have announced that an open casting call for The Ultimate Fighter season 10 will be held at the Marriot Seattle Airport Hotel in Seattle, Washington on April 6 and as of this time no coaches have been named as of this time.

Hopefuls will be able to try out for the Middleweight (185lbs.), Light Heavyweight (205lbs.) and Heavyweight (265lbs.) divisions and must be able to make it to the location sometime around 8 or 9 AM PT, with the doors opening at 10 AM.
Spike officials have also said that UFC president Dana White will be on hand with Spike TV brass to monitor the tryout session as well.

Update: Hartig has returned from his tryout. He performed well and is now awaiting word on if he is going to be competing on TUF.

3/30/09 - Brandon Johnson Defends 170 lbs. Title

The championship hardware keeps adding up for Team Murcielago fighters, and they are not parting ways with their title belts. As was the case Sunday evening in Lansing, Michigan in front of a packed house as Brandon Johnson improves his amateur mixed martial arts record to 5-0. Furthermore, he successfully defends his 170 lbs. championship belt for the first time by stopping undefeated 4-0 James Dolloway at the forty-five second mark of the first round of action, via rear naked choke.

3/16/09 - Kalamazoo, MI - Results

Six Team Murcielago fighters enter the cage Saturday 3/14/09; five win in what was described by one MMA fan as "dominating fashion".

1. Joel Chapman - win (2nd round TKO)
2. Jeremy Czarnecki - win (1st round ground and pound)
3. Brian Gulick - win (1st round TKO)
4. Steve Glassglow - win (unanimous decision)
5. John Villegas - win (unanimous decision)
6. Josh Leake - loss (2nd round submission)

In what could or should have been the fight of the night, Josh Leake suffered the first loss of his amateur MMA career to a seasoned gladiator. The two MMA warriors stood toe-to-toe trading power shots to the delight of the thousands fans in attendance. However, a rib injury prevented Josh from continuing his battle quest. He was submitted in the second round of action via guillotine. Following his loss, Josh vowed to return back to his winning ways once he is injury free.

3/12/09 - Fight Notice

Team Murcielago fighters John "One Speed" Villegas (4-0), Jeremy "The Czar" Czarnecki (5-1), Josh Leake (2-0), Brian Gulick (0-0) and Steve Glassglow (1-0) are scheduled to battle Saturday, March 14, 2009 at Wings Stadium, located in Kalamazoo Michigan.

3/11/09 - Brandon Johnson Defending Title

Undefeated Team Murcielago fighter Brandon Johnson (4-0) is scheduled to defend his 170 lb. title Sunday, March 29, 2009.

3/10/09 - Justin Houghton Joins Team Murcielago!

Team Murcielago in association with Pound-4-Pound is pleased to announce that we have recently acquired one of the most sought after and dominating 145 lb. MMA fighter's in the State of Michigan by the name of Justin Houghton.

Team Murcielago founder Joaquin Rodriguez was pleased with the new acquisition, and noted that Justin would be a solid addition to the ever expanding Murcielago MMA fight team.

Note: Justin Houghton has a 7-0 amateur MMA record. He is scheduled to defend one of his 145 lb. championships Sunday, March 29, 2009.

3/9/09 - Quijano wins 2 gold's at Arnold Classic

Ultimate Fighting Academy (UFA) in association with Team Murcielago is pleased to acknowledge UFA Fighter Kelly Quijano for her two gold medal wins at the 2009 North American Grappling Association (NAGA) - Arnold Grappling Championships.

Over 1,400 grapplers hit the mats and gave the Arnold spectators a great show. However, at it relates to the Women's Intermediate Light Weight No GI and White Belt Light Weight GI Divisions, Kelly was the gold medal winner in their respected groupings.

Please feel visit to view footage of the Gold Medal wins at the following link.

1/23/09 - John Villegas wins by TKO!

Birch Run, MI - John "One Speed" Villegas improves his blemish free record to 4-0.

True to form, "One Speed" dominated his Flint, MI based opponent for one minute and twenty seconds. Beginning at the opening bell, John connected with a series of Muay Thai and Boxing combinations. However, "One Speed" worked his way to the ground and submitted his opponent with a textbook arm bar at the 1:20 mark of the first round.

1/17/09 - Justin "Moose" Hartig wins by Decision

Super Impact MMA hosted a full night of Mixed Martial Arts action at the Dixie Center located in St. George, Utah Friday night. Most notably, Justin "Moose" Hartig gained the favor of the thousands of fans in attendance as he battled Kelly Gray from Team Mica/Machado based out of Las Vegas, Nevada. Kelly Gray is a Brazilian Jui Jitsu Brown Belt MMA fighter. Furthermore, he is respectfully a Mens NO-GI Expert Super Heavy Weight 2008 NAGA Vegas Grappling Championship and a 2008 BJJ Pan Ams - champion.

Team Murcielago Head Coach Joaquin Rodriguez said that this is undoubtedly Justin's toughest MMA challenge to date, and he decisively rose to the challenge. Consequently, the "Moose" battled his way to a unanimous decision victory; the score cards read 30-27 X 3.

12/14/08 - Nate Patrick wins debut by TKO!

Hard work pays off! By his own admission, Team Murcielago member Nate Patrick will inform you that he is not the most gifted athlete in world. However, he is motivated by a team of talented amateur and professional MMA fighter's and coaches day in and day out. Therefore, when Nate found himself at a disadvantage during his debut fight, he did not panic; because he has been in those predicaments numerous times in the gym with his Murcielago MMA teammates. Consequently, Nate battled his way through a stand-up war, and skillfully took the fight to the ground where he landed a rear naked choke that ended his debut fight in the second round. As a result, Nate Patrick wins his debut fight by rear naked choke!

12/8/08 - Chapman wins Combat X 135 lb. Title!

Joel Chapman is on a title quest; not even a cold night of Michigan weather could cool of the red hot MMA warrior. Saturday night, Joel defeated The Crows Nest - Cody Merrill in the third round of championship action, via a textbook armbar.

As of the last four months, Joel has dominated 145 lb. and 135 lb. weight divisions in two separate Michigan based MMA promotions. His latest hardware addition consists of the 135 lb. championship belt from the Detroit, Michigan based Combat X.

12/2/08 - Joel Chapman fighting for 135 lb. Title!

Team Murcielago continues to expand its stable of notable Michigan fighters! Rough House Productions 145 lb. champion Joel Chapman and his Team Nemesis have joined Team Murcielago as a partner gym and they are excited to announce that Joel will be competing for the Combat X 135 lb. championship title Saturday, December 6, 2008 located in Jackson, Michigan.

Team Murcielago Founder and President Joaquin Rodriguez said that Joel and Team Nemesis are a compliment to the Murcielago MMA organization. Furthermore, they are thrilled to assist with guiding the careers of Team Nemisis.

Joel Chapman is respectfully a two time National TaeKwon-Do champion who has demonstrated a solid and well rounded MMA skill set.

11/27/08 - Garcia wins by KO at King of the Cage!

Andre Garcia accepted a twenty-four-hour invitation to partake in the Mt. Pleasant, Michigan Soaring Eagle Casino King of the Cage - Anticipation fight card.

Since successfully completing the Season 9 Ultimate Fighter tryout in Chicago, Illinois Andre has been training; however, not preparing for a fight. Although that didn't discourage him from accepting a late notice fight with the KOTC - Anticipation fight card against the hard punching Scott Bickerstaff.

Without much delay, Andre initiated the jab and began his stand up fight plan in front of an estimated three thousand Michigan MMA fight fans. In the first round of action, Andre demonstrated how a King of the Cage veteran is capable of giving and taking power shots from a worthy and game opponent. Although Andre's quick hands and solid Muay Thai proved to be too much for opponent Scott Bickerstaff. Scott was rocked at the conclusion of the first round leading up to the bell and the second round of action proved to be much of the same, as he was KO'd by a vicious right hand at the 2:16 mark of the second round.

11/11/08 - "Battle at the Ballroom II" Rocks Lansing

In front of a sold out crowd at the Lansing Holidome Ball Room this past Saturday, November 8, 2008, Murcielago MMA Entertainment rocked the house with its second Lansing show, the "Battle At The Ballroom II".

Fans were treated to a full card of amateur fights fueled by a fantastic bout that won "Fight of the Night" that featured Team Murcielago Fighter Matt Bobbio winning by knockout. After several exchanges, takedowns, and slams, Bobbio connected on a straight shot that floored his opponent. Team Murcielago member Andy Peterson picked up another win to stay undefeated as he stopped his opponent in the first round with punches from the mount.

Team Murcielago member and future TUF contestant Andre Garcia also made an appearance, as well as Team Murcielago fighters Justin "Moose" Hartig, Jeremy Czarnecki, and Josh Anderson to cheer on their teammates and enjoy a great night of live action with the crowd!

10/23/08 - Ultimate Fighter 9 Tryouts - Chicago

Team Murcielago member Andre Garcia is completing a six week training camp with UFC veteran coach Joaquin Rodriguez and company, in hopes to become a part of "The Ultimate Fighter" nine casting call.

Andre is scheduled arrive at the Crowne Plaza Chicago O'Hare Hotel to take part in "The Ultimate Fighter: U.S. vs. U.K." tryouts which are scheduled for Monday, October 27, 2008.

High Desert Hitmen will accompany Team Murcielago with three Ultimate Fighter 9 tryout team members.

DATE: Monday, October 27, 2008
VENUE: Crowne Plaza Chicago O'Hare Hotel
LOCATION: 5440 North River Road , Rosemont, IL 60018
TELEPHONE: 847-671-6350
REPORT TIME: Fighter registration begins at 9 AM CT; Tryouts at 10 AM CT.

10/6/08 - Jeremy Czarnecki wins title belt by TKO!

Never one to turn down a challenge, Jeremy Czarnecki accepted a 155 lb. title match on short notice (three days to be exact). Nevertheless, the "Czar" has been training and perfecting his skills under the tutelage of UFC Veteran coach Joaquin Rodriguez, Giro/Sifu Scott Han, WEC Veteran Samuel Wells, Master Harris Edwards Jr. and his training camp since his last TKO win five months ago.

Despite a few nagging injuries, Jeremy perfected a winning game plan against a standout Jui Jitsu fighter Saturday night. The two game opponents traded Muay Thai blows and ground tactics all three rounds. However, the "Czar" began to control the tempo of the match up with his signature ground-and-pound skills. Midway through the third round, the referee called a halt to the action. Jeremy Czarnecki wins by TKO!

10/2/08 - Jeremy Czarnecki Earns Title Shot

Jeremy Czarnecki has accepted an invitation to compete for the Rough House Productions vacant 155lb. championship title. His opponent is a Jui Jitsu standout from Macomb, Michigan. The event is scheduled for Saturday, October 4, 2008 at the Gibraltar Trade Center located at 273 North River Rd., Mt. Clemens, Michigan.

9/21/08 - Brad Johnson wins in Elko, Nevada via Submission

High Desert Hitmen in association with the Ultimate Combat Experience had another successful showing in Elko, Nevada September 20, 2008. The sold out professional MMA event showcased ten action packed fights. Highlighting the show was Brad Johnson, who won his third consecutive contest by submission (rear naked choke).

8/7/08 - Brad Johnson wins by Unanimous Decision

Brad Johnson wins by unanimous decision over Jerome Martinez at the International Fighting Championship located in Sturgis, South Dakota.

8/6/08 - Brad Johnson wins by Submission

Brad Johnson wins by submission (rear naked choke) over Corey Cortez at the International Fighting Championship located in Sturgis, South Dakota.

7/21/08 - Ultimate Combat Experience

High Desert Hitmen/Team Murcielago join forces with the Ultimate Combat Experience for a second installment of MMA action in Elko Nevada.

The Saturday, July 26 2008 fight card will feature Team Murcielago members Justin Hartig and Brad Johnson. Additionally, several of our High Desert Hitmen brother gym fighters will be showcased as well.

BE A PART OF THE EXPERIENCE!!!!

7/7/08 - Hartig and Johnson fighting in Elko Nevada

Team Murcielago members Justin Hartig and Brad Johnson are headed to Elko Nevada for training camp. Both fighters will be preparing for their Nevada debuts on the High Desert Hitmen and Ultimate Combat Experience fight card scheduled for Saturday, July 26 2008 fight card.

7/04/08 - High Desert Hitmen

Team Murcielago continues to grow nationally!

Team Murcielago member and collegiate wrestling standout Chris McLeod has returned back to his hometown stomping grounds and established a Mixed Martial Arts powerhouse in Elko Nevada named High Desert Hitmen.

Congratulations McLeod! Visit the High Desert Hitman Myspace page by clicking here.

6/16/08 - Andre Garcia wins by KO at LVCC!

Team Murcielago fighter Andre Garcia demonstrated why Murcielago MMA is recognized as an elite MMA fight club organization. Since joining Team Murcielago in 2008, Andre Garcia has reinvented himself as a professional fighter. Although known for his phenomenal ground game, Andre has focused his most recent training camp on improving his stand up and striking with head coach Joaquin Rodriguez. With a new found confidence, he dismantled his California based Shark Tank opponent at the inaugural Las Vegas Combat Championships June 14, 2008 show in the second round.

Sherdog.com:
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Andre Garcia scored an impressive second-round technical knockout over David Gomez dominating from start to finish in their welterweight encounter. Garcia had Gomez trapped in a corner and began teeing off on his opponent until Gomez' Shark Tank corner threw in the towel at 2:06 of the second.

6/15/08 - "Summer Rage at the Summit" - Event Cancelled

Murcielago MMA Entertainment must unfortunately cancel the June 28th Lansing show "Summer Rage at the Summit". Refunds for pre-purchased tickets are being processed and we apologize to our great fan base here in Mid Michigan. We look forward to bringing you more of our exciting MMA experience very soon.

5/22/08 - "Summer Rage at the Summit" - June 28th, 2008 -
Lansing, MI - 2 Championships Are On the Line! - Presented by:
Murcielago MMA Entertainment proudly presents, "Summer Rage at the Summit" June28th, 2008 at the Summit located at 9410 Davis HWY, Diamondale, MI 48821

Tickets for the event are $20 for general admission and $35 for floor level. Get your tickets now by calling (517) 319-1000 or (517) 290-6786.

The "Summer Rage at the Summit" event poster is now available by clicking here.     

For more information on the venue, please visit the Capital Centre - Summit homepage by clicking here.     

5/21/08 - "Cage Rage in Cadillac" - Postponed (Updated)
Murcielago MMA truly values every fan they have, but the fans up in Cadillac are great fans. They have already shown great support for their fighters and the opportunity to have a Murcielago MMA event hosted in their area. Unfortunately, due to several factors, the Cage Rage show has been postponed. We still look forward to hosting an event in Cadillac in the not too distant future for all the terrific fight fans there.

With that said, Murciealgo MMA is proud to announce that all fighters from Cadillac and across the midwest are invited to come to Lansing on June 28th when Murcileago MMA proudly presents the creation of 2 championship belts! Due to overwhelming demand Murcielago MMA has created championships in 2 weight classes and both titles will be awarded at the "Summer Rage at the Summit" show on June 28th in Murcielago's back yard of Lansing, MI.

Update: Cage Rage in Cadillac is still going to happen for all the great MMA fans in Cadillac even though Murcielago MMA will not be able to be there. Despite our absence, we encourage the Cadillac MMA community to support the Warrior Challenge promoted event on June 7.

Check back to this site soon for more details on the exctiting championship bouts and 13 other awesome cage fights at "Summer Rage at the Summit"!

5/14/08 - "Cage Rage in Cadillac" - June 7, 2008 - Presented by
Murcielago MMA Entertainment proudly presents, "Cage Rage in Cadillac" June7th, 2008 at the Wexford County Civic Center located at 1320 N. Mitchell Road, Cadillac, Michigan.

Tickets for the event are $20 for general admission and $35 for floor level. Get your tickets now by calling (231) 779-9520 or (517) 290-6786.

The "Cage Rage in Cadillac" event poster is now available by clicking here.     

For more information on the venue, please visit the Wexford County Civic Center homepage by clicking here.     

5/7/08 - "Rage at the Run" Recap - Czarnecki and Leake Victorious!

The "Rage at the Run" in Birch Run, Michigan went off with huge success as a packed house witnessed Murcielago in full effect. On this night the Tri-Cities and Flint got to be a part of an electrifying MMA experience only Murcielago can provide. With state of the art lighting and sound, intimate seating, VIP amenities and a 15-fight card, the "Rage at the Run" was a fight night to remember, especially for Team Murcielago as Jeremy Czarnecki and Josh Leake made it a clean sweep with early stoppages of their opponents.

The evening kicked off with a pre-fight VIP party in the mezzanine, providing champagne and appetizers to the 100 guests who attended. As the fight neared, guests were seated throughout the venue while being greeted by the thundering roar of Big Dog custom choppers provided by one of the event sponsors Forrest Cycle Works. As a prelude to the card our national anthem was hi-lited by a color guard provided by another great Murcielago sponsor, the U.S Army. In addition the Army rolled in one of their "Army Strong" Hummers to be displayed cage left in the venue.

Already this was a night to remember as one spectator put it, "Having the U.S Army here is a great reminder of all the bad ass troops we having protecting our freedoms over seas. Without them none of us could ever enjoy a night like tonight…. I wish they could all be hear."

As the night rocked on, fight after fight brought down the house. Ground & pound, stand-up, grappling, tap outs and knockouts provided the energy icing on the cake. Hooters of Saginaw another great sponsor and our Murcielago ring girls provided some help with visual effects. For all who attended they were just hit with the Murcielago experience. Next stop the Wexford Arena in Cadillac June 7th. Click here for more details.

3/25/08 - "Rage at the Run" - May 3, 2008 - Presented by
Murcielago MMA Entertainment proudly presents, "Rage at the Run" May 3rd, 2008 at the Birch Run Expo Center located at 11600 N. Beyer Road, Birch Run, Michigan.

Tickets for the event are $10 for general admission, and VIP seating is available as well. Get your tickets now by calling (989) 624-4665.

The "Rage at the Run" event poster is now available by clicking here.     

For more information on the venue, please visit the Birch Run Expo Center homepage by clicking here.     

3/25/08 - Best Wishes Rashad! 

UFC Light Heavyweight Veteran and Tough Enough Season 2 Heavyweight Champion "Sugar" Rashad Evans, who has been with Team Murcielago since 2005 through his last fight with Michael Bisping this past November, has left Team Murcielago. Rashad will be training with one of the most reputable fight teams in the country and we would like to wish Rashad the best in all future endeavors!

3/24/08 - "Battle At The Ballroom" Results 

Over 650 people packed into the Holidome Ball Room to see history in the making this past Saturday, March 22nd, 2008, as Murcielago MMA Entertainment put on its first show, the "Battle At The Ballroom". The sold out event was not only a success for the venue and the fans, but for the sport of Mixed Martial Arts as well as the passion displayed by the promoters, fighters, and fans clearly demonstrates how much the sport has grown, and that it has finally landed in Mid-Michigan!

Of course the success did not stop there as Team Murcielago went an impressive 5-1 on the night. Winning fighters included Matt Bobbio, Jeremy Czarnecki, Josh Leake, John Villegas, and Andy Peterson, while Justin "Moose" Hartig came up on the short end of a razor thin split decision. Bobbio, Czarnecki, Leake, and Villegas utilized a mix of grappling, striking, and overall cage control to stop their opponents quickly, while Andy Peterson put on a jiu jitsu clinic in grinding out a unanimous decision. Congrats to all the fighters for having all your hard work and training pay off!

The "Battle At The Ballroom" event poster is still available by clicking here.     

2/6/08 - "Battle At The Ballroom" - March 22, 2008 -
Presented by Murcielago MMA Entertainment

Here we go MMA fight fans. Murcielago MMA Entertainment presents, "Battle At The Ballroom" March 22, 2008 at the Holiday Inn West Conference Center located at 7501 W. Saginaw, Lansing, Michigan.

The live event will feature a minimum of fifteen amateur cage fights that will showcase some of the most reputable combat sport club fighters from the Midwest.

Rounding out this spectacular night of action will be a featured co-main event attraction that will include undefeated fighters Justin "Moose" Hartig and John Villegas. Additionally, the fight card will highlight Warrior Quest standout sensation Noel Gomez and teammate Morgan Avila.

For more information, please email joaquin@jmurcielago.com.

The "Battle At The Ballroom" event poster and sponsor announcement is now available by clicking here.     

2/1/08 - Fight Announcement 

Brad Johnson is scheduled to battle Friday, February 15, 2008 at the Michigan Fight League (MFL) "Extreme Cage Fighting" show located at the Waterstone Banquet Center, 8033 N. Dort Hwy., Mount Morris, Michigan.     

1/26/08 - 1st Annual Curtis Granderson/Grand Kids Foundation 

Team Murcielago was honored and privileged to be a part of the 1st Annual Curtis Granderson/Grand Kids Foundation charity event. The Detroit All-Stars vs. Flint All-Stars Celebrity Basketball Game raised over thirty two thousand dollars that will be donated to Flint and Detroit public schools for educational enrichment.

For more information regarding the event, please visit their web site by clicking here.     

1/10/08 - The "Moose" wins by TKO! 

Justin "Moose" Hartig defeated a game opponent by technical knock out Saturday, January 5, 2008 at the Cage Combat fight series. In front of an estimated six thousand MMA fight fans, the "Moose" found a home for his devastating high and low roundhouse kicks midway through the first round of action. As the action continued into the second round, Justin mixed up his arsenal with a fine display of boxing skills. His quick jab opened the door for some devastating power shots that caused the referee to halt the action at the one minute mark of the second round. Justin is now 1-0 as an amateur MMA heavyweight. Also joining the debut action was the hard-hitting Jeremy Czarnecki who dominated his match through the first round. Although he suffered a disappointing loss due to being caught with a guillotine.     

12/18/07 - Fight Announcement 

Justin Hartig, John Villegas and Jeremy Czarnecki are scheduled to battle at the January 5, 2008 Cage Combat fight series at the Delta Plex, which is located in Grand Rapids, Michigan.     

John Villegas is looking to maintain his unbeaten 2-0 (2KO’s) MMA record blemish free.   Justin (Moose) Hartig and Jeremy Czarnecki will be making their MMA debut.   

**Additionally, there will be five Team Murcielago MMA fighters joining the Grand Rapids, Michigan Cage Combat action whom are guided by UFC veteran Noe Hernandez from our satellite gym sited in Grand Blanc, Michigan.   
 

12/15/07 - Lance Evans wins by TKO! 

TKO31: YOUNG GUNS

SOME WILL RISE AND SOME WILL FALL AT TKO31! 

Lance Evans (Pictures) finally made his long overdue return to the TKO cage to take on local product "The Train" Bob Landry. Both fighters were well aware of the other's power as they exchanged punches cautiously to open the fight.  
 
A takedown void of any setup by Landry was stuffed and subsequently reversed. Evans took control of the fight on the mat and landed some stiff shots. Later, Evans secured another takedown and began to fire away. Landry, covering up at this stage, took a moment to query referee Yves Lavigne about an unintentional shot to the back of his head, and Evans landed a crushing left to the jaw. The fight was stopped at 2:57 of the opening round.