Vale Tudo Japan

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Vale Tudo Japan (VTJ) is a Japanese fighting-arts organization created by pro-wrestling/mixed-martial-arts legend Gidayu Manabu (http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/Gidayu%20Manabu.gif). In late November 2009 VTJ expanded and created a new stand-up/kickboxing division called K-NETWORK.


<font color=#800517>Rules & Regulations:</font>


Vale Tudo Japan MMA Rules (http://vtj-knetwork.blogspot.com/2009/12/vale-tudo-japan-rulebook-20092010.html)
K-NETWORK Rules (http://vtj-knetwork.blogspot.com/2009/12/k-network-rulebook-20092010.html)

<font color=#800517>Event List:</font>
<table border=1 BORDERCOLOR=#C0C0C0 cellpadding="4"><tr><td><img src="http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/japanmax09/maxjapanlogo.jpg" width=125 height=62></td><td><font color=#800517>WORLD MAX</font>

<font color=grey size="2">K-NETWORK WORLD MAX 2010 - JAPAN TOURNAMENT</font>

<font color=grey size="1"> Saturday 30 January / Ariake Colosseum, TOKYO, JAPAN</font></td></tr><tr><td><img src="http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/knetwork3.jpg" width=125 height=75> (http://www.greydogsoftware.com/forum/showpost.php?p=774033&postcount=22)</td> <td><font color=#800517>WORLD GP</font>

<font color=grey size="2"><a href="http://www.greydogsoftware.com/forum/showpost.php?p=774033&postcount=22" style="text-decoration:none"> K-NETWORK WORLD GP 2009 FINAL </a> </font>

<font color=grey size="1"> Thursday 31 December / Yoyogi Stadium 1st, TOKYO, JAPAN</font></td></tr><tr><td><img src="http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/vtj2_logo.jpg" width=125 height=68> (http://www.greydogsoftware.com/forum/showpost.php?p=755763&postcount=8) </td><td><font color=#800517>VTJ</font>

<font color=grey size="2"><a href="http://www.greydogsoftware.com/forum/showpost.php?p=755763&postcount=8" style="text-decoration:none"> Vale Tudo Japan II </a></font>

<font color=grey size="1">Friday 27 November / JCB Hall, TOKYO, JAPAN</font></td></tr><tr><td><img src="http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/vtjlogo.jpg" width=125 height=68> (http://www.greydogsoftware.com/forum/showpost.php?p=730862&postcount=3) </td>
<td><font color=#800517>VTJ</font>

<font color=grey size="2"><a href="http://www.greydogsoftware.com/forum/showpost.php?p=730862&postcount=3" style="text-decoration:none">Vale Tudo Japan I</a></font>

<font color=grey size="1">Saturday 31 October / JCB Hall, TOKYO, JAPAN </font></td></tr></table>

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Preview - Vale Tudo Japan (10.31.2009)

Vale Tudo Japan President Gidayu Manabu announced the full card for their inaugural show which takes place Saturday October 31st from the new Tokyo JCB Hall (http://www.meetsport.jp/hall/index.htm). The card has 6 matches all under VTJ rules bringing in some established MMA fighters as well as some up and coming stars.


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Ikuhisa Tamura vs. Yoshikazu Inamoto

In the main event, Heavyweight's Ikuhisa Tamura (20-8) and Yoshikazu Inamoto (7-3) will do battle. Tamura has been around since the early days of MMA and was a traditional wrestler. But over the years he's gone through a transformation of sorts and while he can still grapple, he is now better known for being a big puncher with an iron jaw. Yoshikazu Inamoto is something of a cult figure in Japanese MMA; his natural flair for theatrics has caught on with fans. His fight game has also improved as of late going undefeated in his last three fights.

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Bokki Iida vs. Chikafusa Abukara

Bokki Iida (17-11) is a dangerous Jiu Jitsu practitioner with excellent submission skills. He's struggled in the past against strikers who have good take down defenses. His opponent will be Chikafusa Abukara (16-5). Abukara has an extensive background in amateur wrestling which has proved to be a key asset in his MMA career thus far.

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Jungo Futagawa vs. Tsunesaburo Oonishi

Two top Welterweight's meet when Jungo Futagawa (16-8) faces Tsunesaburo Oonishi (14-7). Futagawa is a Muay Thai specialist and a journeyman in Japanese MMA who has never quite been able to crack the upper echelons of the sport. Oonishi has a Greco-Roman wrestling background who can be a fighter awkward to face due to his conditioning and strong chin.

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Haranobu Oshiro vs. Tetsuji Myojin

Light-Heavyweights Haranobu Oshiro (4-0) and Tetsuji Myojin (4-0) meet in a battle of the undefeated. Oshiro is a good kick boxer and very dangerous when standing. He still needs to develop his ground game which is currently a major weak spot for him. Myojin is a Sambo fighter from Osaka. He's a good all-rounder but his problem is that he's a jack-of-all-trades but master of nothing. He's been training hard to take his game to the next level.

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Fujimaro Hidaka vs. Rafael Tavares

Fujimaro Hidaka (4-1) will take on Rafael Tavares (11-2) in a Featherweight fight. Hidaka is a good kick boxer and can do a lot of damage with both his hands and feet. Although one dimensional he is young enough to improve this over time. Brazilian Rafael Tavares is one of the new breed of up and coming MMA stars. He has strong BJJ skills but he supplements his ground game with a dangerous striking game too, making him a well rounded competitor.

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Ren Akai vs. Yuji Latu

A Lightweight match betweeen Ren Akai (1-0) and Yuji Latu (6-3) will kick off the debut VTJ show. Akai is a young catch wrestler and he's tenacious, almost fanatical in his chasing of takedowns. Latu is a wrestler who likes to get in close and grapple with opponents. He likes to take the fight to ground and can finish with either the ground and pound or submission.


VALE TUDO JAPAN
Date: October 31st, 2009
Place: JCB Hall in Tokyo, Japan

VTJ Rules, Heavyweight, 3×5 mins:
6. Ikuhisa Tamura (Free) 20-8 vs. Yoshikazu Inamoto (Free) 7-3

VTJ Rules, Middleweight, 3×5 mins:
5. Bokki Iida (Tiger Claw Academy) 17-11 vs. Chikafusa Abukara (Free) 16-5

VTJ Rules, Welterweight, 3×5 mins:
4. Jungo Futagawa (Wudang Academy) 16-8 vs. Tsunesaburo Oonishi (Free) 14-7

VTJ Rules, Light Heavyweight, 3x5 mins:
3. Haranobu Oshiro (Dragon's Lair Gym) 4-0 vs. Tetsuji Myojin (Free) 4-0

VTJ Rules, Featherweight, 3x5 mins:
2. Fujimaro Hidaka (Mok Gar Dojo) 4-1 vs. Rafael Tavares (Escola Da Luta) 11-2

VTJ Rules, Lightweight, 3x5 mins:
1. Ren Akai (Free) 1-0 vs. Yuji Latu (Free) 6-3

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Vale Tudo Japan Results (10.31.2009)

Vale Tudo Japan presented their debut show this past Saturday October 31st from the Tokyo JCB Hall. It was an exciting evening of fighting arts with fantastic finishes and great action as fans and press alike were buzzing with the feedback excellent.

In the main event, Ikuhisa Tamura was victorious over Yoshikazu Inamoto. Midway through the second round Tamura landed a huge punch on Inamoto knocking him to the ground. Tamura dived in and unloaded a flurry of strikes. Inamoto wasn't able to stop the barrage and the referee had no chance but to jump in and stop the fight.

In the co-main event, Tiger Claw Academy fighter Bokki Iida pulled off big win defeating Chikafusa Abukara by split decision in a very close fight. Abukara controlled the first round using his wrestling skill to his advantage. But the second and thrid rounds went to Iida who re-focused after a tough start to win the match. Welterweight Tsunesaburo Oonishi got the win over Wudang Academy's Jungo Futagawa. Oonishi controlled the entire match from start to finish, never relinquishing his dominance.

During the intermission, President Gidayu Manabu announced that Vale Tudo Japan's second show would take place on Novemeber 27th. He said that kick boxer Kei Maki (3-0), who is one of the most dangerous Featherweight strikers, would particpate in a Special Kick Rules match with his opponent TBD. Another Featherweight match between Gu Ueda (17-9) and Takahiro Nakamura (22-5) was also announced that will take place under standard VTJ rules. President Manabu also hinted that VTJ was close to signing a special fighter and hoped to have details forthcoming soon.

In the fight between the two unbeaten Light Heavyweight's, kick boxer Haranobu Oshiro went the distance and picked up a unanimous decision victory over Sambo wrestler Tetsuji Myojin. Oshiro kept Myojin at bay with jabs and kept the fight in his advantage keeping it off the ground. This was one of the most exciting matches of the night. Brazilian Featherweight Rafael Tavares took just under three minutes to defeat Fujimaro Hidaka using a very nicely executed rear naked choke. Tavares now positions himself as one the top Featherweight fighters. The consensus from fans was that this was the fight of the night. In the opening match, the more experienced Yuji Latu beat Ren Akai by unanimous decision.


VALE TUDO JAPAN
Date: October 31st, 2009
Place: JCB Hall in Tokyo, Japan
Attendance: 2,268

VTJ Rules, Heavyweight, 3×5 mins:
6. Ikuhisa Tamura (21-8) defeated Yoshikazu Inamoto (7-4) (R2 2:33) via TKO (strikes)

VTJ Rules, Middleweight, 3×5 mins:
5. Bokki Iida (18-11) defeated Chikafusa Abukara (16-6) (R3) via Split Decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

VTJ Rules, Welterweight, 3×5 mins:
4. Tsunesaburo Oonishi (15-7) defeated Jungo Futagawa (16-9) (R3) via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28,29-28)

VTJ Rules, Light Heavyweight, 3x5 mins:
3. Haranobu Oshiro (5-0) defeated Tetsuji Myojin (4-1) (R3) via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

VTJ Rules, Featherweight, 3x5 mins:
2. Rafael Tavares (12-2) defeated Fujimaro Hidaka (4-2) (R1 2:50) via Submission (Rear Naked Choke)

VTJ Rules, Lightweight, 3x5 mins:
1. Yuji Latu (7-3) defeated Ren Akai (1-1) (R3) via Unanimous Decsion (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

[thedr]

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Vale Tudo Japan 2 Announced!

Vale Tudo Japan (VTJ) President Gidayu Manabu (http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/Gidayu%20Manabu.gif) announced that the companies next event, Vale Tudo Japan II, would take place November 27, 2009 from JCB Hall.

Two matches were confirmed for the show. Brazilian Featherweight Rafael Tavares (12-2) will make his return after his submission victory over Fujimaro Hidaka at the VTJ I show. He will face the always dangerous, 37 year-old J-1 Circle Camp fighter Gu Ueda (17-9). Elite kick boxer Kei Maki (3-0) will fight top European prospect and very talented kick boxer in his own right, Marco Bernacci (4-1). This will be a fight under VTJ kickboxing rules. Manabu said the company is planning for a press conference early next week where they hope to detail more of the card and promised some big announcements forthcoming.


VALE TUDO JAPAN II
Date: November 27, 2009
Place: JCB Hall in Tokyo, Japan

VTJ Rules, Featherweight, 3x5 mins:
2. Gu Ueda (17-9) vs. Rafael Tavares (12-2)

VTJ Special Kick Rules, Featherweight, 3×5 mins:
1. Kei Maki (3-0) vs. Marco Bernacci (4-1)

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The Great Japanese Hope!!

From the 'Top Team Japan' training facility today, Vale Tudo Japan chief Gidayu Manabu was on hand to introduced his star pupil Kanezane Fujii. The 21 year old Heavyweight from Yokohama has been called "The Great Japanese Hope" and many think he could become the next Japanese Heavyweight superstar. He has been training with Top Team Japan for close to a year and has an extensive background in both amateur wrestling and judo. President Manabu said that he plans to book Fujii's first fight at the upcoming Vale Tudo Japan II show later this month.

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Vale Tudo Japan Major Signings!

Tokyo Japan (November 10 2009): Vale Tudo Japan held a press conference today to formally announce the signing of two major players from the world of combat sports. Jonathan Huang, who is considered the best pure Jui Jitsu artist in the world today and Takumi Hosokawa, the 2008 Judo Olympic Silver medalist (80kg). VTJ President Gidayu Manabu introduced both fighters to the press and said that the signing of these two fighters is a very significant move for the company.

Jonathan Huang has won the ADDD Submission Wrestling World Championship for the past three years and now sends a shock wave through the fighting community with his decision to move to professional MMA. It has long been rumored that the two largest MMA promotions in the world GAMMA and ALPHA-1 have been relentless in trying to sign Huang. Huang told the press he choose Vale Judo Japan to gain experience and thinks the company will be successful and have a bright future. The contract is not exclusive but does garuntee 4 fights over 2 years.

Takumi Hosokawa is a master judako practitioner who at last years summer Olympics surprised many by taking home the silver medal. Hosokawa has also been in talks with ALPHA-1 but he said he has always respected and admired President Gidayu Manabu's fighting spirit and decided first appear in Vale Tudo Japan.

President Manabu then announced that that both fighters would be making their MMA debut's at the November 27th Vale Tudo Japan II event but and not only that, they would be facing each other in the main event!

[thedr]

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Preview - Vale Tudo Japan II (11.27.2009)

Vale Tudo Japan released a full preview of the upcoming show, VALE TUDO JAPAN II which takes place on November 27th, 2009 from the Tokyo JCB Hall. The event will feature five main fights with three preliminary bouts. The show will be taped for a future broadcast on All-Japan TV.


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Jonathan Huang vs. Takumi Hosokawa

The main event for Vale Tudo Japan II will see two high profile combat fighters both make their MMA debut. Jonathan Huang (0-0), who most consider that greatest Jui-Jitsu fighter in the world will meet 2008 Olympic Silver medalist Takumi Hosokawa (0-0). Huang has been untouchable in recent years winning the past three World Grappling Championships and dominating every Grappling tournament he has entered. Hosokawa's accomplishments are no less impressive, as he reached the pinnacle of his sport, Judo, by doing something few have done in winning an Olympic medal. Despite the fact that both fighters have never fought under professional mixed-martial-arts rules, both men have a long history of combat sports experience. The Japanese media has been abuzz with this match-up and this fight will thrust the company into the worldwide MMA spotlight.

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Gu Ueda vs. Rafael Tavares

Gu Ueda (17-9) is a 37 year old Featherweight veteran. He is always a dangerous and is a highly technical boxer who can take apart his unsuspecting opponent with his flurries and combinations. Brazilian up and coming MMA star Rafael Tavares (12-2) is coming off a victory less then a month ago at VTJ debut show. At just 2:50 into the first round Tavares ended his fight against Fujimaro Hidaka with a nicely executed rear naked choke.

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Kei Maki vs. Marco Bernacci

Kei Maki (3-0) and Marco Bernacci (4-1) will meet under special 'Kick Rules'. Fighters are given to 10 count to respond if knocked down, rules very similar to Kickboxing. Kei Maki is perhaps one of the most dangerous strikers amongst Featherweights who is an elite-level kickboxer. Hailing from Rome Italy, Bernacci is one of Europe's brightest prospects and is a very talented kickboxer in his own right.

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Kazuya Chano vs. Kojuro Ijichi

Kazuya Chano (10-6) has an extensive wrestling background but is still working on his striking and submission skills. His opponent, Kojuro Ijichi (14-10) also has his strength in wrestling which should provide the fans with an exciting battle.

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Kanezane Fujii vs. Daigo Kitaguchi

Kanezane Fujii (0-0) is last pupil of VTJ President Gidayu Manabu. Many in Japan think Fujii could become the next Japanese Heavyweight superstar. He's been trained in both wrestling and judo and likes to fight in close. Since he joined Top Team Japan his submission have improved greatly and he's become very quick for such a big man. Daigo Kitaguchi (3-5) is a wrestler by trade and is looking to break out. This could be his chance, against someone like Fujii who has a lot of buzz about him. Kitaguchi has nothing to loose and everything to prove which makes him a dangerous opponent.


VALE TUDO JAPAN II
Date: November 27, 2009
Place: JCB Hall in Tokyo, Japan

VTJ Rules, Middleweight, 3×5 mins:
5. Jonathan Huang (0-0) vs. Takumi Hosokawa (0-0)

VTJ Rules, Featherweight, 3x5 mins:
4. Gu Ueda (17-9) vs. Rafael Tavares (12-2)

VTJ Special Kick Rules, Featherweight, 3×5 mins:
3. Kei Maki (3-0) vs. Marco Bernacci (4-1)

VTJ Rules, Welterweight, 3×5 mins:
2. Kazuya Chano (10-6) vs. Kojuro Ijichi (14-10)

VTJ Rules, Heavyweight, 3×5 mins:
1. Kanezane Fujii (0-0) vs. Daigo Kitaguchi (3-5)

Preliminary Fights:

VTJ Rules, Welterweight, 3×3 mins:
Matsudaira Satoh (5-1) vs. Kingo Wantanabe (3-1)

VTJ Rules, Light Heavyweight, 3x3 mins:
Atsutane Akera (0-0) vs. Ryuji Ganaha (0-0)

VTJ Rules, Lightweight, 3x3 mins:
Masahiro Maeno (0-0) vs. Teruaki Ogi (0-0)

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Vale Tudo Japan 2 Results (11.27.2009)

Vale Tudo Japan ran their second show from the Tokyo JCB Hall on Friday November 27th 2009. The venue was near capacity as 2,555 fans came out to watch to exciting night of quality mixed-martial-arts actions.

In the main event, Olympic silver medalist Takumi Hosokawa battled 3-time World Submission Champion Jonathan Huang. Despite this being the first professional MMA match for both fighters this was a high caliber fight. The judako master Hosokawa controlled the fight early managing to avoid numerous submission attempts by Huang. As the match progressed Hosokawa continued to command never really looking to be in too much trouble from Huang's attacks. The bout went the distance and the judges awarded the fight to Hosokawa via a unanimous decision. After the match both fighters shock hands and embraced. Hosokawa took the mic and addressed the fans saying Huang was an amazing fighting practitioner and that he was glad his hard work and training paid off. He thanked VTJ President Gidayu Manabu for the opportunity and said he was eager to return to the ring in the new year.

In the Featherweight semi-main event, Rafael Tavares continued to display great ability ending his fight with veteran Gu Ueda just 2:54 seconds into the 1st round. Tavares looked far too superior for Ueda and dominated the fight from the get go, finishing things off with a nicley executed armbar submission. This was Tavares second victory in VTJ in as many months and he continues to impress. In a fight under special VTJ Kick Rules, top Featherweight kickboxer Kei Maki from the J1 Circle camp faced European kickboxing up and comer Marco Bernacci who fights out of Euro Team Thunder. Many fans considered this the fight of the night as the stand up action was very exciting and fast paced. Bernacci had difficulty against Maki but was able to last until the final round until Maki landed a KO strike to end the fight. Welterweight Kazuya Chano defeated Kojuro Ijichi by split decision in a very close fight. At times both controlled the fight but neither could finish the other off. The judges gave a slight edge to Chano but the fight really could have went either way. In a Heavyweight battle, rookie sensation Kanezane Fujii proved he was worthy of the buzz he's generated as of late and defeated his opponent Daigo Kitaguchi after raining down a series of vicious strikes forcing the referee to stop the fight just 1:03 into the first round. This was pure domination by Fujii who truly looks like he will become a force to be reckoned with in the Heavyweight division. In the preliminary matches, Matsudaira Satoh beat Kingo Wantanabe by unanimous decision, Atsutane Akera defeated Ryuji Ganaha by Americana armbar in a fantastic Light Heavyweight match and Lightweight Masahiro Maeno was victorious over Teruaki Ogi.

At the post event press-conference, Vale Tudo Japan President Gidayu Manabu announced plans for a new Kickboxing division based on VTJ's Special Kick rules dubbed "K-NETWORK". He said that VTJ intended to run the "K-NETWORK World Grand Prix 2009" tournament on December 31st from the Yoyogi National Gymnasium bringing some of the top kickboxers from around the world. Plans are also in the works for Vale Tudo Japan 3 which will take place in January of the new year.


Vale Tudo Japan II
Date: November 27, 2009
Place: JCB Hall in Tokyo, Japan
Attendance: 2,555

VTJ Rules, Middleweight, 3×5 mins:
5. Takumi Hosokawa (0-0) defeated Jonathan Huang (0-0) (R3) via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

VTJ Rules, Featherweight, 3x5 mins:
4. Rafael Tavares (12-2) defeated Gu Ueda (17-9) (R1 2:54) via Submission (Armbar)

VTJ Special Kick Rules, Featherweight, 3×5 mins:
3. Kei Maki (3-0) defeated Marco Bernacci (4-1) (R3 4:41) via KO (Strikes)

VTJ Rules, Welterweight, 3×5 mins:
2. Kazuya Chano (10-6) defeated Kojuro Ijichi (14-10) (R3) via Split Decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

VTJ Rules, Heavyweight, 3×5 mins:
1. Kanezane Fujii (0-0) defeated Daigo Kitaguchi (3-5) (R1 1:03) via TKO (Strikes)

Preliminary Fights:

VTJ Rules, Welterweight, 3×3 mins:
Matsudaira Satoh (5-1) defeated Kingo Wantanabe (3-1) (R3) via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

VTJ Rules, Light Heavyweight, 3x3 mins:
Atsutane Akera (0-0) defeated Ryuji Ganaha (0-0) (R1 2:57 ) via Submission (Americana)

VTJ Rules, Lightweight, 3x3 mins:
Masahiro Maeno (0-0) defeated Teruaki Ogi (0-0) (R2 1:15) via Submission (Achilles Lock)

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The Creation of K-NETWORK + TV Deal

(December 5, 2009) Vale Tudo Japan (VTJ) held a special press-conference today from the Japanese Sports Vision Television headquarters in the Minato Tokyo Japan. Sports Vision Director of Programming Hisashi Toyoda was on hand alongside the President of VTJ, Gidayu Manabu.

Manabu spoke first saying that Vale Tudo Japan is creating a new division called "K-NETWORK". The K-NETWORK division will combine stand up techniques from Muay Thai, Karate, Taekwondo, Savate, San Shou, Kickboxing, traditional Boxing, and other martial arts. Starting in 2010 there will be K-NETWORK Regional Elimination Tournaments which qualify fighters for the "K-NETWORK World Grand Prix". The following Rules will apply to K-NETWORK fights:


Each match is three or five rounds in duration, with each round lasting three minutes
The match can end by Knockout, Technical Knockout or Decision
The fight is scored by three judges on a point system
Fighters who are knocked down are given a ten count to respond
Strikes and stomps to a downed opponent are illegal
Elbow strikes to the head are illegal

President Manabu said the first K-NETWORK event, "VTJ/K-NETWORK World Grand Prix 2009" will take place on December 31st from the Yoyogi National Gymnasium in Tokyo. Eight of the world's best 205+ pound stand up fighters will be selected to participate in a single-night elimination tournament with the winner being crowned 2009 World Grand Prix Champion.

Sports Vision Programming Director Hisashi Toyoda took the podium and announced an exclusive broadcasting agreement has been signed with VTJ in which "K-NETWORK" events would be broadcast on their all-sports channel. He said that the company was very excited about the prospect of bringing high caliber stand up combat fighting to their network lineup. Sports Vision will broadcast the 2009 World Grand Prix and then continue televising events in 2010.

Another press-conference will take place in the near future to announce the details and participants of the "K-NETWORK World Grand Prix 2009".

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K-NETWORK WGP Poster Revealed

VTJ/K-NETWORK released their poster for the upcoming "2009 WORLD GRAND PRIX" taking place on NYE. A press-conference has been scheduled for December 15th that will take place from the Galaxy Room (http://www.anaintercontinental-tokyo.jp/e/banquet/daichu.html) of the luxurious ANA Intercontinental Hotel in Tokyo. The 2009 Grand Prix participants will be introduced and details of the card announced.

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K-NETWORK WORLD GRAND PRIX 2009 Press-Conference!


<img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 241px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_md24xc78fy4/SycBAcDD1uI/AAAAAAAAALI/nlkbPor17_g/s400/press.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415298183976965858" border="0" />(December 15th, 2009 - Tokyo JAPAN) VTJ/K-NETWORK held a press-conference today from the Galaxy Room of the luxurious ANA Intercontinental Hotel in Tokyo. Vale Tudo Japan President Gidayu Manabu took to the podium welcoming everyone and thanking them for attending. He started off by saying the implementation of the new stand-up/kickboxing division, K-NETWORK, is very exciting and the company hopes to fill a void in the current fight scene. The concept of K-NETWORK will be to promote stand-up combat events which will be run separate from VTJ MMA events.

Manabu stated, "With the participation of Japanese Sports Vision TV the opportunity now arises that K-NETWORK can afford to bring in best stand-up fighters in the world, allowing them to display there full potential in a new format that compliments their style. The TV exposure will also allow our company to reach new fans and help strengthen the brand".

President Manabu said that due to K-NETWORK being created so late in the year that there was no time to hold regional tournaments to qualify for the World Grand Prix finals, but promised that starting next year this would be the plan moving forward. In 2010 the company will hold four regional Grand Prix qualifying events, a final 16 elimination tournament and then the World Grand Prix final. Manabu also announced the formation of a lighter weight class called "K-NETWORK WORLD MAX". This division will be for fighters weighting between 70kg-77kg (155lbs-170lbs). Hopes are the first K-NETWORK MAX tournament will take place this January.

It was now time to introduce the fighters who will take part in the World Grand Prix 2009 taking place from the Yoyogi National Gymnasium on December 31st. The lights dimmed and a VTR played a large screen behind the podium promoting the upcoming event. After it finished, Gidayu Manabu returned.

<blockquote>"Ladies and Gentelman... Vale Tudo Japan, in association with Japanese Sports Vision, is proud to present the K-NETWORK 2009 World Grand Prix!! Because there were no qualifying events this year, VTJ/K-NETWORK has hand picked the top 8 stand-up fighters in the world to participate in this illustrious tournament. The winner will be crowned 2009 World Grand Prix Champion! The match format will consist of 3 rounds lasting 3 minutes each. In the event of no knockout or technical knockout then 3 judges will decide a winner. And now, without further delay, here are this years K-NETWORK World Grand Prix 2009 partipants!"


"Please welcome, from the legendary Top Team Japan, from Japan, at a height of 6'2 and weighting 225lbs, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hiro Arai</span>!"

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_md24xc78fy4/SybrhCRQDmI/AAAAAAAAAKA/QLOR_FfFWw8/s1600-h/hiroface.gif"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_md24xc78fy4/SybrhCRQDmI/AAAAAAAAAKA/QLOR_FfFWw8/s200/hiroface.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415274554737036898" border="0" /></a>



"Also fighting out of Top Team Japan, from Japan, at a height of 6'2 and weighting 230lbs, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gyokusho Fujimoto</span>!".

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_md24xc78fy4/Sybr4EWuk9I/AAAAAAAAAKI/P0jlWckQoHs/s1600-h/fujimotoface.gif"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_md24xc78fy4/Sybr4EWuk9I/AAAAAAAAAKI/P0jlWckQoHs/s200/fujimotoface.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415274950433870802" border="0" /></a>



"From the U.S.A., representing the Bear Pit Gym, at 6'2 and weighting 235lbs, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Rick Stanley</span>!"

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_md24xc78fy4/SybsJbzroCI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/X24Xh7jDhPs/s1600-h/stanleyface.gif"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_md24xc78fy4/SybsJbzroCI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/X24Xh7jDhPs/s200/stanleyface.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415275248787103778" border="0" /></a>



"Another fighter from the Bear Pit, from the U.S.A, standing 6'2 and weighting 220lbs, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Leon Banks</span>!"

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_md24xc78fy4/SybsRqIVj6I/AAAAAAAAAKY/raUdu-docWI/s1600-h/banksface.gif"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_md24xc78fy4/SybsRqIVj6I/AAAAAAAAAKY/raUdu-docWI/s200/banksface.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415275390070788002" border="0" /></a>



"From The St. Petersburg Elite Gym in Croatia, standing 6'1 and weighting in at 215lbs, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Niko Soldo</span>!".

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_md24xc78fy4/SybsYgamMlI/AAAAAAAAAKg/rAfWh5vq-Do/s1600-h/soldoface.gif"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_md24xc78fy4/SybsYgamMlI/AAAAAAAAAKg/rAfWh5vq-Do/s200/soldoface.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415275507722105426" border="0" /></a>



"From the U.S.A, fighting out of the Evolution Gym, standing 6'3 and weighting 210lbs,<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Raul Hughes</span>!"

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_md24xc78fy4/SybszodxtFI/AAAAAAAAAKo/_y6f4kUOt_Y/s1600-h/hughesface.gif"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_md24xc78fy4/SybszodxtFI/AAAAAAAAAKo/_y6f4kUOt_Y/s200/hughesface.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415275973739394130" border="0" /></a>



"From the Estrela Academy in Brazil, standing 6'1 and weighting 220lbs, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Edilberto</span>!"

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_md24xc78fy4/Sybs6F8zHVI/AAAAAAAAAKw/G3uNck8komQ/s1600-h/Edilbertoface.gif"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_md24xc78fy4/Sybs6F8zHVI/AAAAAAAAAKw/G3uNck8komQ/s200/Edilbertoface.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415276084733353298" border="0" /></a>



"And the final fighter, from the U.S.A, standing 6'0 and weighting 230lbs, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Duke Ainoa</span>!".

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_md24xc78fy4/SybtA7cNg2I/AAAAAAAAAK4/nMTTRDij2ek/s1600-h/aionaface.gif"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_md24xc78fy4/SybtA7cNg2I/AAAAAAAAAK4/nMTTRDij2ek/s200/aionaface.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415276202171401058" border="0" /></a>



"Ladies and Gentleman, I present to you, the 2009 World Grand Prix final 8!!".</blockquote>


All 8 fighters were lined up and posed for the press as they snapped up pictures. President Manabu brought the press-conference to a close by saying that a draw to determine the 2009 Grand Prix matches will be held at the Japan Sports Vision Tokyo TV studio and broadcast on a live Grand Prix preview show this Friday evening starting at 10pm JST. He also confirmed that 2 or 3 more 'Superfights' would be announced for the card.

[thedr]

K-NETWORK WGP 2009 Promo Video !

Japanese Sports Vision has just started running the following 30-second TV spot for the upcoming K-NETWORK WGP 2009:


<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/D1uAY2XW0PU&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/D1uAY2XW0PU&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

[thedr]

http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/japanesesportsvision.jpg

K-NETWORK WGP 2009 live Match Draw on JSV TV !

(December 18th - Tokyo JAPAN) Japanese Sports Vision broadcast a special 30-minute World Grand Prix 2009 preview show this past Friday evening that was hosted by Ken Shinichi and Mita Yumi. At the top of the show it was announced that a random draw will take place to determine the four first round matches in the Grand Prix. Shinichi and Yumi welcomed VTJ President Gidayu Manabu who would run the draw. The pairings would be decided using a system of chance. One after the other, in an order determined by a random selection of numbered balls, the fighters opponent would be drawn in a given position on the tournament schedule.

For match #1, the first ball picked was Raul Hughes. He would face, Duke Ainoa.

Raul Hughes: "I'm happy to be involved in a bout with Duke Ainoa. One of us will be hitting the canvas and not getting up. That's the kind of fight you can expect."
Duke Ainoa: "Hughes is perhaps the best Heavyweight stand-up fighter in the world. I'm up the challenge and ready to win the Grand Prix!"

In the match #2 selection, Leon Banks was the first ball picked. His opponent would be Gyokusho Fujimoto.

Leon Banks: "This will be a tough tournament. I'm honored to have been selected. I'm going to KO every other fighter until I become GP champion!"
Gyokusho Fujimoto: "I'm in the best shape ever and I just can't wait to fight. I see my opponent and I just get excited."

In the selection for the match #3, the first ball selected was Niko Soldo. He would meet, Edilberto.

Niko Soldo: "This is an important tournament and will determine who is the world's #1 stand-up fighter. I'm training hard now and I'm determined to become the winner."
Edilberto: "I will do my best to represent Brazil. I'm gratefullest to be fighting amongst the best in the world."

That leaves Rick Stanley to face Hiro Arai in match #4.

Rick Stanley: "It's great to be back in Japan, it's been a while. My only focus will be to defeat Arai, win the semi final fight and then KO my opponent in the finals. I'm taking the Grand Prix trophy back to the US."
Hiro Arai: "There will be a lot of pressure on me to win. I can promise all the fans I will do only my best!"

An video packages were shown with each of the 8 fighters training and highlights from past matches.

After this President Manabu announced an addition to the card. He said that K-NETWORK has secured the services of world renowned Lightweight's Go Yamamoto and Indonesian fighter Atep. The fight would be fought under K-NETWORK rules; 3 min x 3 rounds at 68kg (150lbs). Host Mita Yumi said they had a special guest and welcomed Go Yamamoto! Yamamoto came out into the studio and sat down with Yumi for an interview.

<font color=blue>Q: Are you excited to be fighting in K-NETWORK?</font>
A: Very much so, yes.

<font color=blue>Q: Your background is in Muay Thai, so you should fair well in K-NETWORK right?</font>
A: Yes, I think so. Since turning to MMA I've worked to improve my ground game but I never lost focus of my stand-up. That's my strength.

<font color=blue>Q: Your opponent, Atep, is a fighter who is very good at Muay Thai. He's a former Indonesian kickboxing Champion. </font>
A: Atep is very good, but I think I am better and will knock him out.

<font color=blue>Q: Why's that?</font>
A: (laughing) I dunno, I think I'm stronger. We'll see I guess...

<font color=blue>Q: Do you have any plans to participate in K-NETWORK's WORLD MAX division next year?</font>
A: We will see what happens, I would like too. It depends on what obligations I have with ALPHA-1. I will also need to bulk up to make weight.

<font color=blue>Q: Thank you Mr. Yamamoto and good luck in your fight on New Years. </font>
A: Thank you. And I would to thank Mr. Manabu for making this happen. (shaking hands with Manabu).


As the show was ending President Manabu said that there was still one or two more 'Superfight' matches being worked on that they would be announced in the coming days.


http://www.purolove.com/images/hr.jpg

K-NETWORK WORLD GRAND PRIX 2009
Date: December 31, 2009
Place: Yoyogi National Gymnasium
TV: Japanese Sports Vision

K-NETWORK Rules, World Grand Prix 2009 ~ Final, 3×3 mins
8. Winner Semi Final #1 vs Winner Semi Final #2

K-NETWORK Rules Lightweight Superfight, 3x3 mins
7. Go Yamamoto vs. Atep

K-NETWORK Rules, World Grand Prix 2009 ~ Semi Final, 3×3 mins
6. Winner Soldo/Edilberto vs. Winner Stanley/Arai

K-NETWORK Rules, World Grand Prix 2009 ~ Semi Final, 3×3 mins
5. Winner Hughes/Ainoa vs. Banks/Fujimoto

K-NETWORK Rules, World Grand Prix 2009 ~ Round 1, 3×3 mins
4. Rick Stanley (USA/Bear Pit) vs. Hiro Arai (Japan/Top Team Japan)

K-NETWORK Rules, World Grand Prix 2009 ~ Round 1, 3×3 mins
3. Niko Soldo (Croatia/St.Petersburg Elite) vs. Edilberto (Brazil/Estrela Academy)

K-NETWORK Rules, World Grand Prix 2009 ~ Round 1, 3×3 mins
2. Leon Banks (USA/Bear Pit) vs. Gyokusho Fujimoto (Japan/Top Team Japan)

K-NETWORK Rules, World Grand Prix 2009 ~ Round 1, 3×3 mins
1. Raul Hughes (USA/Evolution) vs. Duke Ainoa (USA/Free)

[mariochives]

great! I look forward to more. really love it

[thedr]

http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/Jremote.jpg http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/americanoption.jpg

K-NETWORK Signs Japanese and American PPV Deals

(December 20th - Tokyo JAPAN) The K-NETWORK office released information today in regards to a broadcast agreement with both the Japanese Pay-Per-View provider, J-Remote 1 and U.S. provider American Option. The December 31st, "2009 World Grand Prix Finals" will be broadcast LIVE on both networks

[TheDeanOfWhipedCream]

Loving this. I am very very very impressed. Sets the standard i would have to try and aim for if I did a dynasty.

[thedr]

<img src="http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/Najib%20Sri%20Aziz%20bin%20Zai.gif" height=150 width=150 border=2> <img src="http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/Teeratep%20Nutnum.gif" height=150 width=150 border=2>

<table bgcolor="black" border="0" width="700"><tr>
<td><font color="white">Najib Sri Aziz bin Zai vs. Teeratep Nutnum Announced for 12/31!</td></font>
</tr></table>

(December 21 - Tokyo JAPAN) Another Superfight was added to the K-NETWORK "World Grand Prix 2009" NYE card today. The vastly experienced Malaysian Muay Thai fighter Najib Sri Aziz bin Zai will face Thailand's Teeratep Nutnum who many consider one of the most exciting fighters in the world. The match will take place at 65kg (145lbs), under K-NETWORK Rules with 3 min x 3 rounds.

With this announcement there are now 9 fights set in total. VTJ/K-NETWORK President Manabu twittered last night that there are 3, possibly 4 more fights left to be announced. A second and final WGP Press-Conference is likely to take place tomorrow or Thursday.

VTJ/K-NETWORK also officially launched their English language website today, it can be found at: http://vtj-knetwork.blogspot.com/


http://www.purolove.com/images/hr.jpg

K-NETWORK WORLD GRAND PRIX 2009
Date: December 31, 2009
Place: Yoyogi National Gymnasium

K-NETWORK Rules, World Grand Prix 2009 ~ Final, 3×3 mins
9. Winner Semi Final #1 vs Winner Semi Final #2

K-NETWORK Rules, 70kg/150lbs Superfight, 3x3 mins
8. Go Yamamoto (Japan/Top Team Japan) vs. Atep (Indonesia/Zui Quan Dojo)

K-NETWORK Rules, World Grand Prix 2009 ~ Semi Final, 3×3 mins
7. Winner Soldo/Edilberto vs. Winner Banks/Fujimoto

K-NETWORK Rules, World Grand Prix 2009 ~ Semi Final, 3×3 mins
6. Winner Stanley/Arai vs. Winner Hughs/Ainoa

K-NETWORK Rules, World Grand Prix 2009 ~ Round 1, 3×3 mins
5. Hiro Arai (Japan/Top Team Japan) vs. Rick Stanley (USA/Bear Pit)

K-NETWORK Rules, World Grand Prix 2009 ~ Round 1, 3×3 mins
4. Leon Banks (USA/Bear Pit) vs. Gyokusho Fujimoto (Japan/Top Team Japan)

K-NETWORK Rules, World Grand Prix 2009 ~ Round 1, 3×3 mins
3. Niko Soldo (Croatia/St.Petersburg Elite) vs. Edilberto (Brazil/Estrela Academy)

K-NETWORK Rules, World Grand Prix 2009 ~ Round 1, 3×3 mins
2. Raul Hughes (USA/Evolution) vs. Duke Ainoa (USA/Free)

K-NETWORK Rules, 65kg/145lbs Superfight, 3x3 mins
1. Najib Sri Aziz bin Zai (Malaysia/WOTCB) vs. Teeratep Nutnum (Thailand/Zui Quan Dojo)

[thedr]

<table bgcolor="black" border="0" width="700"><tr><td><font color="white">Road to the 2009 World Grand Prix! The Second Press Conference</td></font>
</tr></table>

(December 23 - Tokyo JAPAN)[/B] K-NETWORK held their second and final press conference today from the Park Hyatt Hotel for the December 31st, 2009 World Grand Prix Finals. VTJ/K-NETWORK President Gidayu Manabu told the press that there were a four additional fight announcements to make.

<img src="http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/Kyuwa%20Itou.gif" height=150 width=150 border=2> <img src="http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/Mac%20Fuller.gif" height=150 width=150 border=2>

First off, a match between Kyuwa Itou and Mac Fuller has been added as a Superfight. The match will be fought under K-NETWORK Rules, 3 min x 3 rounds at 84kg/185lbs. Itou is a 5'11" Kickboxer from Kobe Japan. He's very experienced and considered a top Japanese middleweight MMA fighter and kickboxer. American Mac Fuller, 6'1" is a former pro boxer and at one time dominated the US MMA middleweight division (pro record of 29-5). This will be his first career Kickboxing fight so it will be interesting to see if Fuller to make the transition as easily as he did from boxing to MMA. Fuller is expected to arrive in Japan to start his preparations today. Kyuwa Itou was present and addressed the press saying, "Fuller is a very good fighter and athlete. His boxing and knock out skills are the best in the Middleweight division, there is no debate. But his exposure to Kickboxing is little, and in turn I have the advantage here. I will exploit this and use it to win the fight."

In addition, three preliminary fights were announced. From the Philippines, Po-Han Yue will face Japanese Mok Gar Dojo fighter Fujimaro Hidaka at 65kg (145lbs). At 110kg (245lbs), the Lithuanian Juozas Skeria will take on Souleymane Ya Konan and at 84kg (185lbs) two Japanese will meet as Ukyo Narita faces Haranobu Oshiro.

President Manabu said that Japanese Sports Vision would broadcast (on free TV) the preliminary fights and the Najib Sri Aziz bin Zai vs. Teeratep Nutnum match. J-Remote 1 would broadcast the event live in it's entirety and American Option would broadcast the event live minus the preliminary fights. American Option will also re-run the broadcast starting at 8pm EST on NYE.



K-NETWORK WORLD GRAND PRIX 2009
Date: December 31, 2009
Place: Yoyogi National Gymnasium

K-NETWORK Rules, World Grand Prix 2009 ~ Final, 3×3 mins
10. Winner Semi Final #1 vs Winner Semi Final #2

K-NETWORK Rules, 70kg/150lbs Superfight, 3x3 mins
9. Go Yamamoto (Japan/Top Team Japan) vs. Atep (Indonesia/Zui Quan Dojo)

K-NETWORK Rules, World Grand Prix 2009 ~ Semi Final, 3×3 mins
8. Winner Soldo/Edilberto vs. Winner Banks/Fujimoto

K-NETWORK Rules, World Grand Prix 2009 ~ Semi Final, 3×3 mins
7. Winner Stanley/Arai vs. Winner Hughs/Ainoa

K-NETWORK Rules 84kg/185lbs Superfight, 3x3 min
6. Mac Fuller (USA/Bear Pit) vs. Kyuwa Itou (Japan/J1 Circle)

K-NETWORK Rules, World Grand Prix 2009 ~ Round 1, 3×3 mins
5. Hiro Arai (Japan/Top Team Japan) vs. Rick Stanley (USA/Bear Pit)

K-NETWORK Rules, World Grand Prix 2009 ~ Round 1, 3×3 mins
4. Leon Banks (USA/Bear Pit) vs. Gyokusho Fujimoto (Japan/Top Team Japan)

K-NETWORK Rules, World Grand Prix 2009 ~ Round 1, 3×3 mins
3. Niko Soldo (Croatia/St.Petersburg Elite) vs. Edilberto (Brazil/Estrela Academy)

K-NETWORK Rules, World Grand Prix 2009 ~ Round 1, 3×3 mins
2. Raul Hughes (USA/Evolution) vs. Duke Ainoa (USA/Free)

K-NETWORK Rules, 65kg/145lbs Superfight, 3x3 mins
1. Najib Sri Aziz bin Zai (Malaysia/WOTCB) vs. Teeratep Nutnum (Thailand/Zui Quan Dojo)

Preliminary Fights

K-NETWORK Rules 84kg/185lbs, 3x3 min
3. Ukyo Narita (Japan/Free) vs. Haranobu Oshiro (Japan/Dragons Lair)

K-NETWORK Rules, 110kg/245lbs, 3x3 mins
2. Juozas Skeria (Lithiania/Free) vs. Souleymane Ya Konan (Cote d'Ivorie/Free)

K-NETWORK Rules, 65kg/145lbs, 3x3 mins
1. Po-Han Yue (Phillippines/Zui Quan Dojo) vs. Fujimaro Hidaka (Japan/Mok Gar Dojo)

[thedr]

<table bgcolor="black" border="0" width="300"><tr><td><font color="white">WGP Interviews, Part 1</td></font>
</tr></table>

K-NETWORK World Grand Prix finalists sat down with company representatives to discuss their upcoming fights for the website (http://vtj-knetwork.blogspot.com). In part 1, we speak with Gyokusho Fujimoto, Raul Hughes, Edilberto and Rick Stanley.



<img src="http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/wgp/Gyokusho%20Fujimoto.gif" height=250 width=200 align=center> Gyokusho Fujimoto

Q: What is your condition like?
A: I am in great condition. I am healthy and fit, and prepared well.
Q: Leon Banks thinks maybe you are injured from a previous fight.
A: He heard some incorrect information then.
Q: Banks also said he is going to stop all his opponents.
A: That is a pretty typical answer. All three fighters in 5 minutes?
Q: How do you see the fight going?
A: I think it will be similar as the last fights.
Q: So stop or be stopped?
A: Of course.
Q: So his weak point hasn't changed?
A: He had a weak point, and he still has one. He is bigger and stronger, but the point remains.
Q: What have you been working on in preparation for this fight?
A: I've been focusing on defense, and doing a lot of sparring. Also, increasing my stamina. I think I did enough.



<img src="http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/wgp/Raul%20Hughes.gif" height=250 width=200 align=center> Raul Hughes

Q: You look in great condition this time, so how do you feel?
A: I am good, and fit.
Q: Did you prepare specially for this fight?
A: Yeah, we did some technical training this time.
Q: Does Branco, your trainers inclusion help a lot?
A: Of course he is a great trainer.
Q: You told us he gives you good advice, but what sort of things?
A: He is a fighter, so he gives good small details for everything.
Q: When did he start advising you?
A: Just this last week, because he lives in Croatia.
Q: Who do you feel will win if you don't make it in?
A: I don't hope, but I think Niko Soldo. He is in a better side for it



<img src="http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/wgp/Edilberto.gif" height=250 width=200" align=center> Edilberto

Q: What do you think of Niko Soldo?
A: I think he is good, but I haven't really seen his fights.
Q: You look a little more cut than usual. How did you do that?
A: Just naturally with my training.
Q: How do you feel then?
A: A little lighter and easier to move.
Q: Since the last fight what have you been focusing on?
A: I focused on keeping the target of winning in mind and being a little more aggressive.



<img src="http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/wgp/Rick%20Stanley.gif" height=250 width=200 align=center> Rick Stanley

Q: It has been awhile since you have been in Japan, so how do you feel?
A: I feel very good. I had a very cloudy time, but I feel really good to fight on such a big event.
Q: What kind of fight do you think this one will be?
A: I don't want to talk too much. I prepared well. I am in good shape. I have a great team and I want to entertain the people.
Q: Many people think you will be the WGP champion this year. How does this make you fell?
A: Well, I have to fight against Arai first and then see how things go. Anything can happen in a tournament. Of course I am very flattered people think of me as the champion though.
Q: What do you think will be the key to winning this WGP?
A: The first fight in the first round. It is the most important as if I don't get through it I won't advance. I don't know who I will face after that, so I can't think too much about it.

[thedr]

<table bgcolor="black" border="0" width="300"><tr><td><font color="white">WGP Interviews, Part 2</td></font>
</tr></table>
The other four K-NETWORK World Grand Prix finalists sat down with company representatives to discuss their upcoming fights for the website (http://vtj-knetwork.blogspot.com/).



<img src="http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/wgp/Hiro%20Arai.gif" height=250 width=200 align=center> Hiro Arai

Q: We saw you lifting a 300kg weight, but what is your max?
A: 350kg for 1 rep.
Q: So I guess your power has increased?
A: A lot more power.
Q: Most people lose speed as they gain power, so how about with you?
A: Just look at the facts of my results. I think my strength and condition is better. Maybe I'm not one of those people.
Q: Did you do any special training for this WGP?
A: Every fight is different, so the training for this tournament was different. There were a lot of things we did differently, as you'll see in the fight.
Q: You might have to fight another Top Team Japan fighter, so how do you feel about it?
A: I don't care about that. Every Wednesday morning at training we try to kill each other, so it is no problem at all.



<img src="http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/wgp/Niko%20Soldo.gif" height=250 width=200 align=center> Niko Soldo

Q: You look a little bigger than your last fight.
A: I put on a little weight. I did lose some before, but at my max I went to about 113kg. Right now I am about 106kg or 107kg.
Q: Did you plan to get bigger as part of your preparation?
A: I haven't increased my calorie intact at all, but have been incorporating weights more and put on a kilo or two.
Q: So did you bring in a conditioning trainer?
A: Yes, I have been working with him about a year. He is helping with my running, and weight training. At first he almost had me throwing up with the weights.
Q: Can you feel yourself that you are getting stronger?
A: I guess so but I have to see in the fight. In training we spar with huge gloves and headgear, so it is hard to tell.
Q: So is your bench press getting better?
A: Well I have never checked my max, but I am using 10kgs or so more than before. I am doing about 140kg or 150kg now.
Q: So your arms and chest have gotten bigger?
A: I haven't measured, but I have been told it has.


<img src="http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/wgp/Leon%20Banks.gif" height=250 width=200" align=center> Leon Banks

Q: What have you been working on in preperation?
A: Increasing my power.
Q: So are you doing weights?
A: I have recently started to a little bit.
Q: What do you think of your opponent?
A: He will come out strong, so I need to be careful and take my shots.
Q: He is confident he will KO you.
A: I'm sure he will try.



<img src="http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/wgp/Duke%20Aiona.gif" height=250 width=200 align=center> Duke Aiona

Q: Welcome to K-NETWORK. How do you feel?
A: I'm rather nervous.
Q: Really?
A: Yeah.
Q: You won your last Kick Boxing match via KO. How do you feel you'll go this time?
A: I have increased my power, so I think I can win by nicer KO
Q: The last one was pretty spectacular.
A: This one will be better.
Q: How many kgs do you weight now?
A: About 110kgs…last time I was about 105kgs
Q: How about your speed? Has it decreased with the weight gain?
A: It has increased, so I am enjoying the feeling of extra power too.

[thedr]

Preview: K-NETWORK World Grand Prix 2009, December 31, 2009


<center><img src="http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/knetwork3.jpg" width=450 height=300>

Date: December 31, 2009
Place: Yoyogi National Gymnasium (http://www.naash.go.jp/yoyogi/), Tokyo Japan
Japanese Sports Vision
J-Remote 1 (JPN) / American Option (USA)

presented by
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/b/b0/Donki_logo.png

http://www.purolove.com/images/hr.jpg
<table bgcolor="black" border="0" cellpadding="2" width="585"><tr>
<td><font color="white">FIGHT CARD </td></font>
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http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/wgp/fight1.jpg<table bgcolor="black" border="0" cellpadding="2" width="585"><tr>
<td><font color="white">Opening Ceremony </td></font>
</tr></table>http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/wgp/open3.jpg
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[thedr]

Results: K-NETWORK World Grand Prix 2009, December 31, 2009


<center><img src="http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/knetwork3.jpg" width=450 height=300>

Date: December 31, 2009
Place: Yoyogi National Gymnasium (http://www.naash.go.jp/yoyogi/), Tokyo Japan
Japanese Sports Vision
J-Remote 1 (JPN) / American Option (USA)

presented by
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/b/b0/Donki_logo.png

http://www.purolove.com/images/hr.jpg

<table bgcolor="black" border="0" cellpadding="2" width="585"><tr>
<td><font color="white">FIGHT CARD </td><td><font color="white">Attendance: 9,114</font>
</tr></td></table>http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/wgp/results/tourny_bracket.gif
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http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/wgp/results/fight1result.jpg<table bgcolor="black" border="0" cellpadding="2" width="585"><tr>
<td><font color="white">Opening Ceremony </td></font>
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[thedr]

<table bgcolor="black" border="0" width="785"><tr><td><font color="white">Bodies Fall as Fujizilla Reigns Supreme; K-NETWORK WGP 2009 Report</td></font>
</tr></table>

<img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3380/3568869663_ec2c5965aa.jpg" align=right height=170 width=290 hspace=5 vspace=5 border=2>December 31st, 2009 (Tokyo Japan) K-NETWORK assembled the top eight Heavyweight strikers in the world, brought them to Japan and pitted them against each other in a single-night winner takes all tournament. Whomever could win three grueling tournament fights would be crowned World Grand Prix 2009 Champion and be billed as the best striker/standup fighter in the world!

The night began with Fujimaro Hidaka facing the Philippines Po-Han Yue in the opening match. Early in the first round, Po-Han Yue attacked with a series of low kicks, keeping Fujimaro at bay. Hidaka countered with a series fantastic strikes but Han Yue was able to hook in the clinch and land a series of knees late in the round. In the second round Han Yue started to pull away as he out boxed and skilled Fujimaro. To the third round and it was much the same with Po-Han Tue starting to dominate. Fujimaro showed courage and determination as he tried to stay in the fight but in the end the judges gave Han Yue the unanimous decision.

In the second preliminary bout, Heavyweight Juozas Skeria from Lithuania faced the Ivory Coast's Souleymane Ya Konan. Skeria came out in the first round like a bull launching a relentless attack on Konan. Less then a minute into the fight and Skeria had already opened a small cut on the cheek of Konan. Much of the same for the rest of the round as Skeria landed strikes and kicks keeping Konan under control. In the second, Konan landed a series of punishing low kicks, which look to hurt Skeria. Konan fought hard and as the round ended landed a nice upper cut causing Skeria to loose his legs. In the third round Konan continued his assault, landing bigger and bigger strikes. At 1:17 of the third round Konan connected with a bone shattering straight right hand for the KO win!

In the final prelim bout, 84kg Japanese fighter Ukyo Narita took on Haranobu Oshiro. Early in the first, Haranobu Oshiro landed some excellent low and mid kicks along with some well placed punches. A small laceration was opened on Narita's nose and left cheek. At the start of the second round, Oshiro was looking to end the fight and attacked with a series of powerful strikes. It was took much for Narita who hit the canvas hard giving Oshiro the KO victory at 0:37 of the second round.

<img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d3CZmaG2uS8/SPbv1j2GHLI/AAAAAAAAANA/uZ63q9IL9Zs/s320/DSC01738.jpg" align=left hspace=5 vspace=5 border=2>The opening ceremonies started with a series of pyrotechnics and explosions that rocked the 9,114 fans inside the Yoyogi National Gymnasium. Each of the eight Grand Prix participants were individually introduced by event producer Gidayu Manabu as they appeared on the stage and ramp.

In the night's first Super Fight, Thailand's Teeratep Nutnum would meet the Malaysian Najib Sri Aziz bin Zai. Early on Nutnum surprised Aziz bin Zai with some great combo's and then a right hand that landed hard. But Aziz bin Zai would lock in a clinch and land some brutal knee shots. Late in the round Aziz bin Zai almost ended the fight after some unanswered uppercuts collided with Nutnum's chin but time ran out in the round. In the second it was more from Aziz bin Zai who landed seven hard thigh kicks weakening Nutnum. Back to the clinch and Aziz bin Zai launched a vicious knee sending Nutnum down for the count. Najib Sri Aziz bin Zai displayed superb skill and looks to be a very promising 65kg fighter.

Finally, the moment fans around the world had been awaiting. The 2009 World Grand Prix was about to officially commence. What better way to kick things off then with two top American fighters facing each other as the hard hitting Raul Hughes would take on Duke Ainoa. As the bell rang to start the first round, Hughes shot out of his corner firing on all 8 cylinders. His hands were a blur, and though one looping right hand found its’ mark, the shot dumping Ainoa to the canvas hard. Unbelievably Ainoa could not get up and the fight was over! Hughes ended it just 0:59 into the first round!

Next was Croatian Niko Soldo facing the Brazilian Edilberto. The bout began with Edilberto picking off low kicks, that caused Soldo to switch back and fourth between orthodox and southpaw stances. He didn’t need to be overly concerned with the collective damage though, as he shot in on Edilberto, clinched, and fired in two knees that caused the Brazilian to face-plant, out cold. A nice win for the Croation who now advances to the semis.

Next up was the tough American Leon Banks taking on "Fujizilla" Gyokusho Fujimoto. Banks came out looking pumped, and wasted no time in trying to introduce Fujimoto's chin to the leather of his gloves. But Fujimoto stood ground and landed an incredible hay-maker, snapping Banks head backwards. Fujimoto then went in for the kill landing a series of punches from one end of the ring to the other and Banks tumbled to the canvas. It was over! A nice KO from Fujimoto which had the Japanese fans on their feet. Yet another opening round fight ended within the first round.

In the next bout, Japanese favorite Hiro Arai took on the popular American kick boxer Rick Stanley. The two fighters clinch and it was Arai who lands a solid knee to the face of Stanley. Arai dodged some brilliant combo's and then counters with some nice combination's of his own and then a brutal left hook. In trouble, Stanley blocked some jabs but the last punch lands hard on his cheek and he fell to the mat. The fans loved this one as Arai advances to the semi finals were he will face Japan Top Team teammate Gyokusho Fujimoto.

Next was the second Super Fight of the evening. Former pro-boxer turned MMA middleweight Mac Fuller would enter his first ever kick boxing match against J1 Circle Camp's Kyuwa Itou. Fuller looked good early blocking a series of leg kicks. Fuller charges at Itou throwing flurries of left and rights landing a shot that rocked Itou. The Japanese fighter was in trouble as Fuller continued his assault throwing a one-two combo then faking a move to fire a big right hand up the chin. The shot opened a large cut on Itou's chin which affected his vision. The referee stepped in stopped the fight at 1:30 of round 1.

It was time for the first of the two semi final matches between Raul Hughes and Niko Soldo. Soldo launched a vicious middle kick that landed hard to the ribs of Hughes. Unrelenting, Soldo then landed an incredible high kick. Niko Soldo got sloppy and Raul Hughes tried to take advantage as he launched a wicked hook to the body that hurt Soldo as he started to favor his side. In an instant, a right hand from Raul Hughes surprises Soldo and he drops to the canvas like a rag doll. Raul Hughes has secured his place in the finals!

In the second semi final bout, it was fight between the two Japan Top Team teammates, Gyokusho Fujimoto and Hiro Arai. Despite both fighters coming from the same gym, there seemed to be little love lost between the two as it was all business. Arai went for an early all out attack on Fujimoto and the more experienced fighter looked to get the better of Fujimoto. Arai kept the larger Fujimoto at bay with low and mid kicks finishing the first round off strong. In the second, Fujimoto exploded and landed a sweeping right and then a high kick landing to the left of Arai's face. That was it, Gyokusho Fujimoto defeats his teammate and advances to the finals with a KO at 0:57 in the second round!

As the two winners prepared for the final showdown, we were treated to a bout between two top K-NETWORK 70kg MAX fighters. The very popular Go Yamamoto came out to a rousing applause from the fans. His opponent was the very dangerous Indonesian Atep. The two keep their distance early on, then Atep lands a bone shattering straight right hand. Atep continued with a a nice hook the body. Yamamoto's attack are stopped by Atep, who followed up with a great combo and tremendous series of strikes. It seemed that Atep was just too much when out of nowhere Yamamoto lands a brilliant combination that drops Atep with just seconds remaining in the round. What a comeback for Yamamoto who looked in trouble the entire fight.

The K-NETWORK World Grand Prix 2009 Champion fight is finally upon us as Gyokusho Fujimoto would face Raul Hughes. Both of these combatants have sliced through their fields stopping all opponents. As the opening bell rang, they made their way to the middle and touched gloves. Fujimoto threw a looping left hand landing on the chin of Hughes stopping him in his tracks. Fujimoto is relentless and launches a few perfect technique punches, bruising the cheek of Hughes. But Hughes counters landing a nice right and the two exchange a great series of punches. Fujimoto fakes a move and launches a liver kick. Fujimoto dodges a strike and counters with a crushing hook sending him down to the canvas. It's over, Fujimtoto wins at 1:53 of the first round! With this Fujimoto becomes the first K-NETWORK World Grand Prix Champion!

Afte the final match, event producer Gidayu Manabu presented Fujimoto with the Grand Prix trophy and giant cheque as confetti rained down upon the ring. Fujimoto was given the microphone and thanked his trainers and team. He praised the other fighters in the tournament saying K-NETWORK had indeed assembled the best of the best. He said he was happy to win and hoped to return in the new year to defend his crown.

Gidayu Manabu announced that in January, the first phase of the World MAX Championship would take place (weight class: 70kg-77kg, 155lbs-170lbs) and there are plans to run a Vale Tudo Japan MMA event as well.

http://vtj-knetwork.blogspot.com

[HansLanda11]

Even though it's early IMO this is the best dynasty out there. Great work.

[Egnuldt]

Very very impressive, thanks for doing this!

[thedr]

<table bgcolor="black" border="0" width="505"><tr><td><font color="white">K-NETWORK WGP 2009 Post Event Comments</td></font>
</tr></table>
<font color=grey>Gidayu Manabu Event Producer</font>

This was the best Finals we could have asked for. Gyokusho Fujimoto fought like a true champion and displayed amazing skill in the tournament. He is now the man to beat. There is no doubt that Fujimoto is the best stand-up fighter in the world. Raul Hughes showed tremendous potential and could really be a force in the future of K-NETWORK. We like his style of fighting and think he can be very successful. The four semi-finalists, Gyokusho Fujimoto, Raul Hughes, Niko Soldo and Hiro Arai all qualify for the 2010 Final 16 tournament taking place later this year.

<font color="#3366CC">Q: Is the first K-NETWORK MAX event taking place this January and will Go Yammamoto participate?</font>
A: There will be an official announcement shortly in regards to the the first MAX event. But it will indeed take place this month. As for Yammamoto participation, we hope so. We'll have to see how quickly he can recover from his super fight. But we hope he can fight in the Japan MAX tournament.

<font color="#3366CC">Q: Will there be a Heavyweight title anytime soon in K-NETWORK?</font>
A: Perhaps one day, but the plan now is to continue with the Grand Prix format. 2010 will be our first year of running qualification tournaments so we will be busy.

<font color="#3366CC">Q: When and were will the first 2010 WGP tournament take place?</font>
A: In Japan, February. The other three qualifying tournaments will take place outside of Japan but these sites are still being negotiated. We will release details soon on the 2010 World Grand Prix Qualification System and Schedule.

[thedr]

NARUTO Executives Indicted

(January 2nd, 2010 - JAPAN) Japanese press and blogs are abuzz with news that several executives at NARUTO have been indicted on counts of tax evasion. NARUTO is a large Japanese video game company and the parent company to ALPHA-1. This reportedly includes ALPHA-1 CEO Ietsuna Hisamatsu. There has been no official response from either NARUTO or ALPHA-1 at this time.

Ietsuna Hisamatsu was a former executive with NARUTO when he was installed as CEO of ALPHA-1 in 1994. He was given the task of establishing the promotion as the world's undisputed leader in MMA. And he did just that, taking ALPHA-1 to the top of the sport. Although rivaled over the past few years by the American GAMMA organization, ALPHA-1 is still a premiere worldwide MMA organization, and has some of the world's best fighters under contract. What effect this will have on the future of both companies is unknown at this time.

[thedr]

<table bgcolor="black" border="0" width="500"><tr><td><font color="white">K-NETWORK WGP 2010 Qualification System</td></font>
</tr></table>

K-NETWORK has released information in regards to the qualification system that will be employed for the 2010 World Grand Prix. Four preliminary tournaments will be held in Yokohama, Las Vegas, Seoul and London. The tournament winner and runner-up will qualify for the Final 16 eliminations in Osaka. This leaves 8 fighters in which 4 fighters will be selected by K-NETWORK officials and the 4 semi-finalists from the 2009 event all qualify.

The 8 winners from the Final 16 will qualifying from the Finals in Tokyo. The first qualifying event, the JAPAN GP will take place in February.



<img src="http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/knetwork_system.png" border=1></img>

Courtesy of http://vtj-knetwork.blogspot.com/2009/12/k-network-rulebook-20092010.html

[thedr]

ALPHA-1 CEO Responds to Charges

(January 5th, 2010 - Tokyo JAPAN) The Tokyo District Public Prosecutors Office will charge the Tokyo-based ALPHA-1 and its CEO Ietsuna Hisamatsu, with violating the Corporate Tax Law. Hisamatsu admitted during questioning that he kept a massive amounts of the company's funds off the books, sources said. Hisamatsu faked a large amount of expenses totaling more than 100 million yen and deducted them from the company's taxable income, thereby evading tens of millions of yen in corporate taxes over a two-year period, prosecutors allege. He is also suspected of consulting a certified tax accountant over the tax evasion.

Ietsuna Hisamatsu released a statement today saying that ALPHA-1 President Meiji Nishimura will assume CEO duties while he addresses his legal troubles. He stated that ALPHA-1 will continue to operate as normal and they are planning for a show in February.

Executives from NARUTO, the parent company of ALPHA-1, have also been charged with the same crimes as Hisamatsu. Depending on the outcome of the trails this could seriously effect the finances of ALPHA-1.

[thedr]

<table bgcolor="black" border="0" width="450"><tr><td><font color="white">K-NETWORK 2010 WORLD MAX Schedule</td></font>
</tr></table>

(January 5th, 2010 - Tokyo JAPAN) K-NETWORK released information today in regards to their WORLD MAX tournament schedule. Them four qualifying events will take place in Japan, Brazil, Korea and the Netherlands. The winner and runner-up from each qualifying tournament will advance to the Final 8 tournament. Winners from the Final 8 fights will advance to the Championship Final at the Yokohama Arena in November. A press conference will take in the next couple days when the 8 participants for the Japan Tournament will be announced.



<img src="http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/knetwork_max_sched2010.png" width=776 height=561 border=1>

[Synticha]

I have to say that I'm impressed of your work here! The whole layout of this diary is near perfection. I'm looking forward to read more :=)

[Nedew]

The layout, the write-ups, the graphics... This is amazing. Absolutely amazing.

[TheDeanOfWhipedCream]

this seriously makes me look at my diary and go "man I absolutely suck I need to step up my game!" just awesome work

[thedr]

thanks everyone for the kind words and encouragement.

personally, I like most of the diaries here... fancy graphics or not I find them all interesting.

[thedr]

<table bgcolor="black" border="0" width="620"><tr><td><font color="white">K-NETWORK World MAX Japan Tournament Announcements</td></font>
</tr></table>

<img src="http://evan.stasis.org/kat/vtj/japanmax09/maxjapanlogo.jpg">


(January 7th, 2010- Tokyo JAPAN) K-NETWORK held a press conference today from their Tokyo offices to announce the eight participants for the World MAX Japan Tournament. Event Producer Gidayu Manabu said that the show will take place on Saturday January 30th, 2010 from the Tokyo Ariake Colosseum. The following eight fighters were announced to take part in the MAX tournament; 70kg-77kg (155lbs-170lbs).

1. Go Yamamoto (Top Team Japan)
2. Yeijiro Yamamoto (Dragons Lair Gym)
3. Sadakuno Katoh (Freelance)
4. Bakin Sakamoto (J1 Circle Camp)
5. Washichi Kobayashi (Freelance)
6. Juro Fukazawa (Way of the Crane's Beak)
7. Chojiro Goto (Dragons Lair Gym)
8. Kei Maki (J1 Circle Camp)

Manabu stated that the match-ups and fight order will be announced shortly and will be determined by random draw.

[vunsev]

Amazing graphics and layout. Keep up the good work. Will be interesting to see how far you go with this.

[thedr]

<table bgcolor="black" border="0" width="530"><tr><td><font color="white">K-NETWORK World MAX Japan Tournament Update</td></font></tr></table>

(January 9th, 2010 - Tokyo JAPAN) The K-NETWORK offices released the match-ups for the upcoming World MAX Japan Tournament which takes place on Saturday January 30th. Along with K-NETWORK rules fights, there will be at least two matches fought under Vale Tudo Japan MMA rules.

Kei Makai, who normally fights in the Featherweight division will move up to MAX weight as the elite kickboxer will face muay thai fighter Chojiro Goto. Bakin Sakamoto, the kickboxer from J-1 Circle Camp will meet journeyman Sadakuno Katoh. Yeijiro Yamamoto who fights out of the Dragon's Lair will take on "Iron Man" Juro Fukazawa. And finally, Top Team Japan's Go Yamamoto, who is coming off a victory less then a month ago returns to the ring to face Washichi Kobayashi in the final first round match.

Two fights were also announced which will be fought under Vale Tudo Japan MMA rules. The veteran Brazilian Greco-Roman wrestler Zaco (43-14) will meet fellow veteran and leader of Team Desire, "The Master" Greg Atteveld (37-14). And popular Sumo wrestler Eien Kawano (3-0) faces future superstar Kanezane Fujii (1-0), who won his debut fight back at Vale Tudo Japan's second event last November. VTJ/K-NETWORK promises to release details on more matches in the near future.


VTJ / K-NETWORK WORLD MAX 2010 JAPAN TOURNAMENT
Date: January 30, 2010
Place: Tokyo Ariake Colosseum

K-NETWORK Rules, World MAX Japan Tournament ~ Final, 3R ×3 mins
9. Winner Semi Final #1 vs. Winner Semi Final #2

VTJ MMA Rules, Middleweight Super Fight. 3R x 5min
8. Zaco (44-14) vs. Greg Atteveld (37-14)

K-NETWORK Rules, World MAX Japan Tournament ~ Semi Final, 3R ×3 mins
7. Yamamoto/Fukazawa vs. Yamamoto/Kobayshi

K-NETWORK Rules, World MAX Japan Tournament ~ Semi Final, 3R ×3 mins
6. Maki/Goto vs. Sakamoto/Katoh

VTJ MMA Rules, Heavyweight Super Fight. 3R x 5min
5. Eien Kawano (3-0) vs. Kanezane Fujii (1-0)

K-NETWORK Rules, World MAX Japan Tournament ~ Round 1, 3R x3 mins
4. Go Yamamoto (Top Team Japan) vs. Washichi Kobayashi (Freelance)

K-NETWORK Rules, World MAX Japan Tournament ~ Round 1, 3R x3 mins
3. Yeijiro Yamamoto (Dragons Lair Gym) vs. Juro Fukazawa (Way of the Crane's Beak)

K-NETWORK Rules, World MAX Japan Tournament ~ Round 1, 3R x3 mins
2. Bakin Sakamoto (J1 Circle Camp) vs. Sadakuno Katoh (Freelance)

K-NETWORK Rules, World MAX Japan Tournament ~ Round 1, 3R x3 mins
1. Kei Maki (J1 Circle Camp) vs. Chojiro Goto (Dragons Lair Gym)