Paul Redmond 'Neil is on Another Level to When They Last Fought'

Paul Redmond 'Neil is on Another Level to When They Last Fought'

by Chris Houten - @mrhouts

Copyright Dolly Clew | Cage Warriors

It's been 5 years in the making but the UFC finally returns to Dublin for what promises to be a memorable night for all the fans in attendance, but none more so than the 4 Irish fighters on the card.

While all the talk will be about Conor McGregor, one of those fighters, Neil Seery, faces one of the toughest challenges in his career in the form of Phil Harris, an English flyweight who already has a win over Seery when the two previously meet in 2010.

Fighting out of Team Ryano MMA in Dublin, 34-year old Seery, a former Cage Warriors flyweight champion was given a shot in the UFC when Ian McCall dropped out of his scheduled bout with Brad Pickett in March. After a huge social media campaign to give Seery the fight against Pickett, Seery got the call and stepped in on late notice to face the British veteran. Seery lost his bout to Pickett by unanimous decision but earned praise from UFC president Dana White for his game performance.

Seery will now fight for the first time in The UFC with a full camp under his belt when he faces Phil Harris at The O2 in Dublin, July 19th and noted Cage Warriors featherweight and Team Ryano MMA teammate Paul Redmond says Seery has made the most of his camp:

'Camp's gone great for him. He's firing on all cylinders and peaking just at the right time. [He's] probably the sharpest I've ever seen him.'

A pro since 2005, Seery first fought Phil Harris at Bamma 3 back in 2010 losing by unanimous decision. Since the lost the Harris, Seery has put together a 6-2 record since the fight with 4 wins inside the distance, including a devastating body kick KO over Paul Marin. Harris on the other hand is 3-2 with 1 NC, and will need to win this bout to save his UFC career. Seery however, has a different plan in mind, wants to celebrate in front of his friends, family and countrymen but more importantly he will want to revenge his loss to Harris, and Redmond sees it coming:

'I think fighting in Dublin in The O2 is gonna be something special for him and all the Irish. Neil really is on another level to the last time they fought. My predictions Seery by KO, 1st / 2nd round all day.'

Stay tuned to KingdomMMA.co.uk for all the latest on UFC Fight Night Dublin

Phil Harris talks to Kingdom MMA ahead of UFC Dublin

by Chris Houten @mrhouts

On Saturday night Phil Harris steps foot back in the octagon. For some, his return may be surprising since it was only a couple of months since he was released. However in MMA the scene changes very quickly and Harris has benefited from this and will return to square off once again against Neil Seery, who Harris previously beat. This time the advantage of the third man is firmly with Seery as the fight is in his own backyard at the O2 Arena, Dublin. Before that fight Harris took time out of his schedule to talk to Kingdom MMA and discuss his last fight, his return to the UFC and of course a look ahead to the fight this weekend.

Chris: So you're back in the UFC fighting Neil Seery, how has your camp gone for this fight?
Harris: It's gone very well, it's been a long camp and I'm more than ready.

Chris: Other than the usual Gym 01 guys who are there week in week out, Brum, Pennington, Caswell etc. who have you worked with for this camp? Has Lee or Grant been down over the last few months?
Harris: Brad Pickett has been down at the start of my camp, also Mark Handley has been down, and Sam Creasy has been down for sparring. I've also been up to Poole martial arts and they've lots of good Thai fighters.

Chris: You were pulled from a fight in the Middle East for Cage Warriors just before you resigned with the UFC, have you essentially been in camp since April?
Harris: I'm always training so I'm never actually out of a camp! After this fight I'll be slowing down my training for a few weeks.

Chris: You originally lost your last fight to Gaudinot, however the bout has now been overturned due to Gaudinot failing a drug test. Was the fact Gaudinot failed a drug test instrumental in you being brought back into the UFC?
Harris: No the UFC asked my manager if he had any UK/ Euro guys at flyweight and he said that I deserve another shot and they listened to him and gave me another shot. A plus side of having an awesome manager (Graham Boylan)

Chris: You were caught early in the Gaudinot fight and you almost looked out of sorts. Talk us through the fight, how did your preparation and build up to the fight go, and where did you feel you went wrong in the fight?
Harris: I had no excuses for that fight I made a mistake rushed a take down and left my neck open. Louis jumped on it!

Chris: With the failed drug test, the loss to Gaudinot has been changed to a no contest. How are you treating this fight, is it bittersweet to have the loss overturned or are you still treating it as a loss?
Harris: It's still a loss in my eyes.

Chris: When the news broke that Ian McCall was out of UFC London in March you were pretty supportive of the UFC signing Neil Seery, it felt like you both seemed friendly. How would you describe your relationship with Neil and what is it like to fight someone you know, respect and maybe even like?
Harris: I've a lot of respect for Neil he's a top guy, he deserved his shot in the UFC so I supported him and was pleased when he got the call up.
We'll definitely have a drink after the fight.

Chris: How much better do you think Neil Seery has become since the first time you fought?
Harris: He's probably going to be more well rounded now but I'm pretty sure his come forward throwing punches style won't change.

Chris: How do you feel about fighting Seery in his back yard? Are you expecting the most hostile environment you've ever fought in?
Harris: Yeah I'm expecting to be the bad guy but it doesn't bother me in the slightest.

Chris: There are 2 other flyweight battles on the card along side your bout with Seery. You have Pickett vs McCall, and Holohan vs Sampo, how do you see those fights playing out?
Harris: Pickett has a tough fight but will come through the winner, haven't a clue how. Holohan vs sampo will be a great fight holohan will win via submission in round 1, maybe a triangle.

Chris: Finally we are half way through the year now, what can we expect from the Gym 01 guys in the second part of 2014?
Harris: Brett Caswell will finish the year with a massive win along with a few others Scott Pooley has a big fight in the pipe line
Also the next generation of fighters are coming through, watch out for Ollie Davidson and Alan Talis both big talents!

Chris: Would you like to thank anyone ahead of the fight for helping you prepare?
Harris: I'd like to thank Bri Adams, Head gym01 coach. Mok Rahman, my striking coach/pad man. All of my training partners at gym01.

Also my sponsors Smuggling duds, JY nutrition, Sweet sweat and Funky gums.

Also my lovely wife Debbie.
Thanks again for your time Phil and we wish you all the best for the fight on Saturday night.

Neil Seery Meets Phil Harris at UFC Dublin

Neil Seery Meets Phil Harris at UFC Dublin
by Chris Houten - @mrhouts

Copyright Dolly Clew | Cage Warriors

Irish flyweight Neil Seery has been given a chance at revenge in front of his countrymen when he takes on the UKs Phil Harris at UFC Dublin, who beat Seery by decision at BAMMA 3.

UFC Dublin takes place July 19th at the The O2 Arena. Tickets for will go on sale to the general public at 10am on Friday 6th June and can be purchased from www.ticketmaster.ie and www.theo2.ie.

Joining the UFC as a last minute replacement when he was defeated by unanimous decision by Brad Pickett at UFC fight Night London in March, Seery fights for the promotion for the first time on the back of a full training camp when he takes on Phil Harris in Dublin.

A former Cage Warrior Champion, Seery (13-10 MMA, 0-1 UFC) who earned praise for his efforts in defeat to Pickett, has put together a 6-2 record since his fight with Harris in 2010, with 4 wins inside the distance, including a devastating body kick KO over Paul Marin. A pro since 2005, the 34 year old has finishes 11 of his 13 victories inside the distance - 6 by TKO, 5 by submission.

Fighting for the 5th time under the UFC banner, Phil Harris (22-12 MMA,  1-3 UFC) returns to the promotion having been briefly released following his loss to Louis Gaurdinot at UFC Fight Night London.

A Judo black belt, Harris who fights out of Gym 01 is on a 2-4 run since he fought Seery at Bamma 3, however he has faced what could be considered a run of death since joining the UFC, facing top 15 guys including Darren Uyenoyama, John Lineker, Louis Gaurdinot, and Ulysses Gomez, the only man Harris has defeated in the UFC. Currently riding a 2 fight losing streak, it's likely Harris will need to defeat Seery to keep his UFC career alive, make the rematch even more intriguing.

Stay tuned to kingdommma.co.uk for all the latest on UFC Dublin.

UFC London: Brad Pickett Earns a Hard Fought Decision Over a Game Neil Seery

UFC London: Brad Pickett Earns a Hard Fought Decision Over a Game Neil Seery
by Chris Houten - @mhouts

UFC.com

Brad Pickett's flyweight debut was a successful one, defeating game Irishman Neil Seery by unanimous decision on the main card of today's UFC Fight Night 37 event at O2 Arena in London.

In the opening round Seery came out showing little signs on intimidation, despite the fact he was fighting in front of 15,000 fans at the O2 who were mainly supporting Pickett. Seery was happy to stay in the pocket and trade with Pickett catching the Englishman with some solid strikes. Pickett countered by mixing in low kicks before ducking under a Seery hook to secure a takedown. Pickett work Seery on top - where it was clear to see he had the advantage, nearly ending the fight with an arm triangle attempt.

Round 2 opened with both men going toe-to-toe again. Pickett was the aggressor coming forward but Seery was happy to trade with his English opponent and in many instances he was getting the better of Pickett on the feet, beating Pickett to the punch. As in round one, Pickett again went for the takedown where he landed some descent ground and pound from inside Seery guard to finish the round.

Down on the judges score card going into the 3rd, Seery came out swinging, again beating Pickett to the punch with a number of sharp blows, to force Pickett to take the fight to the ground again, where he was able to gain a dominate position. Seery was able to get to his fight with 90 second to go, and starting firing all out hoping for the knock out, which left Seery open for another takedown which Pickett duly took. Pickett secured top position again, where to fight finish.

After the bout Pickett said:

“Im a little disappointed to not get a stoppage there especially in front of my hometown fans. Neil just kind of hung on and never allowed to me do anything. It was good to get some rounds at this weight class however. My gas tank felt superb and the weight cut was no problem. "

Having hoped for a shot at current UFC Flyweight Champion Demetrious Johnson, who Pickett has already beaten early in his career, with an impressive victory over Seery, it's likely Pickett will need to fight again now, and a previously scheduled match with Ian McCall may now be on the cards again. 

UFC Fight Night London Predictions

Kingdom MMA predictions for UFC Fight Night London

by Ben Heather @benheather, Tommy Strong @Strong_tea and Jack Broadey @J3cK_b

This week we will be predicting the fights for UFC Fight Night 38, as the UFC returns to London for its first EMEA show of 2014. For this event we will give a write up for the main card fights card and then we will be picking our winners for the rest of the card. Let us know if you agree with our picks.

Gustafsson vs Manuwa

Jack: Although Gus can handle himself on the feet he has a massive advantage on the ground here. Manuwa is a poor grappler and Gus is excellent. I expect this to go to the ground early and for the frustrations of the Jon Jones loss to be taken out on Manuwa. I don't think this fight will see past he halfway point of round 1.

Prediction: Gustafsson by Submission Round 1

Ben: I was shocked when this fight was announced, I thought Gustafsson should have been matched up with another top ranked fighter such as Phil Davis with Jimi on the main card against a top 10 guy.... just not the number 2 guy.

That being said, Alex has everything to lose in this fight. Jimi will be going in to this fight as a big underdog and it may be the first time that has happened in his career. I would love to see the upset, however we have never seen Jimi tested and he will be on Saturday night. I can't see it happening but I would love it for Jimi and UK MMA as well.

Prediction: Gustafsson by Submission Round 4

Tommy: I still can't figure out why and how Jimi has got this fight except for selling tickets! Jimi hasn't fought anyone on the level of Alexander Gustafsson before, this is a huge step up for him and one I think he's really going to struggle with. With so much on the line for Gustafsson he really has everything to lose and nothing to gain by beating Jimi. Its Manuwa that could be in touching distance of a title fight if he was to pull of a huge upset here.

I expect Gustafsson to play it safe here against a dangerous striker and keep the fight either at length or force Jimi onto the ground for much of the fight.

Prediction: Gustafsson by TKO Round 2.

Johnson vs Guillard

Tommy: With Ross Pearson having to pull out due to an injury, this is a very good replacement in Johnson. Both fighters can blow hot or cold on any given night, so lets hope its piping hot as we could be in for real treat here. With Guillard's knockout power and Johnson's ground game this is a coin toss to predict, I'm still not sure who to pick in this, if I was a betting man I would leave this fight well alone.

Prediction: Johnson by Unanimous Decision

Jack: This fight is as close to a pick em as you'll see. Both extraordinarily talented fighters and both frustratingly inconsistent. If we are to assume both guys turn up on point(which history tells us they won't) then I like Johnson. Tibau and Lauzon are tough tough guys and he handled both with ease. Guillard has lost every significant fight he's been in over the last couple of years only winning 2 of the past 7.

Prediction: Johnson by KO Round 2

Ben: Johnson is on a tear, he has to be in the best form of his career. First he picked apart Joe Lauzon in a fight not many people gave him a chance, then he knocked out Tibau and I think he will do the same this weekend against Guillard. That being said, Guillard has proved that he can finish anyone on a good night but his form is not consistent. I see Johnson keeping his run going and next time out facing off against a top 10 ranked fighter.

Prediction: Johnson by TKO Round 2

Pickett vs Seery

Tommy: Pickett making his flyweight debut was something I was really looking forward to. Though with the withdrawal of Ian McCall I feel a little let down now. A win against a top ranked McCall would really of put Pickett into the top 5 of the flyweight division. The UFC have done a good job in finding a late replacement in Seery but the fight lacks a little something for me.

I think Pickett's experience in the octagon and Seery making his UFC debut this could be a lop sided fight!

Prediction: Pickett by TKO Round 1

Ben: I feel for Pickett in this fight, when I spoke to him just before Christmas he mentioned challenges and pushing towards a title shot. I feel a big win against McCall could have been enough to give him a shot against Mighty Mouse and his case is helped by the fact that he is one of only two men to beat him. However, now he is set to fight Neil Seery there isn't much to gain here for Pickett. It's now a fight that he is expected to win and by winning doesn't get much reward for doing so. He certainly won't be facing the champ next time out.

As for the fight itself I can't see anything else other than a Pickett stoppage victory, I can't decide whether that will be a knockout or submission but it won't be a good night for Seery.

Prediction: Pickett by TKO Round 2

Jack: Styles may clash here, late notice for Seery who no doubt is in shape but wasn't preparing to face Pickett. Pickett was preparing for a different style all together but class should show here.

Prediction: Pickett by Unanimous Decision

Nelson vs Akhmedov

Jack: My sleeper for fight of the night. Really looking forward to this one as soon as it was announced. Akhmedov's debut lasted about 3.5 minutes and he managed to win fight of the night and come from behind to win by KO. The fight despite being so short had everything and it really showed off all the Russians skill set. Nelson has not fought since the last time the Octagon landed in London back in February of 2013. No real explanation of the extended break and that would be of concern for me. Once a real hot prospect in the sport it's difficult to pick him here though.

Prediction: Akhmedov by Decision

Tommy: It will be good to see Gunnar Nelson back inside the octagon after a year out since he last fought in London 2013. Though this could be a real tough test for Nelson. Akhmedov unbeaten in 11 fights, won fight of the night honours in his debut against Thiago Perpetuo in November. Both fighters are very well rounded here with Gunnar having the slight edge on the ground, though if Akmedov can keep it standing he has a very good chance here.

I've made the mistake to many times backing against Russian fighters in the UFC so this time I'm going for the upset here.

Prediction: Akhmedov by TKO Round 2

Ben: Unlike the others I see Gunnar Nelson returning to the Octagon and picking up where he left off last year in London. Yes Akhmedov could be his toughest opponent to date but I feel it will be a submission victory which will come and Nelson will not let it go until he gets the W.

Prediction: Nelson by Submission Round 2.

Predictions for the remainder of the Card

Diabate vs Latifi

Jack: Diabate         Ben: Diabate     Tommy: Diabate

Barnatt vs Nilsson

Jack: Barnatt         Ben: Barnatt       Tommy: Barnatt

Scott vs da Silva

Jack: Scott            Ben: Scott          Tommy: Scott

Grant vs Delorme

Jack: Grant           Ben: Delorme     Tommy: Delorme

Araujo vs Mitchell

Jack: Araujo         Ben: Mitchell      Tommy: Araujo

Harris vs Gaudinot

Jack: Gaudinot      Ben: Gaudinot    Tommy: Gaudinot

Brad Pickett Meets Cage Warrior Champion Neil Seery at UFC Fight Night 37

Brad Pickett Makes his Flyweight Debut Against Irishman Neil Seery at UFC Fight Night 37
by Tommy Strong - @strong_tea

(Dolly Clew | Cage Warriors)

With just over 3 weeks until UFC Fight Night 37,  UFC officials have announced a replacement fight for Brad Pickett after seeing Ian McCall having to pull out due to an injury.

Pickett (23-8) will now make his UFC flyweight debut against Irishman Neil Seery (13-9 MMA) in London. Current Cage Warrior flyweight champion Seery, will now vacate his belt and move over to the UFC to make his debut at the age of 34.

Since joining the UFC , Pickett put together a record of 3-3 in the Bantamweight division. With losses coming against former title contenders Michael McDonald, Eddie Wineland and current Bantamweight champion Renan Barao, Pickett finds himself out of the title picture at 135, and will try a hand at a new weight.

With all the hard work that has Pickett has gone through, he will be no doubt be pleased that a fight has been found so close to the scheduled date, however a source close to the fighter told Kingdom MMA, that finding an opponent on short notice proved to be difficult:

"The UFC couldn't find anyone to take the fight with Brad" 

Having picked up 4 fight of the night bonuses and 1 knockout of the night bonus in his 6 UFC fights and Seery having finished 5 finishes of his last 6 opponents last 6 fight, fans watching on BT Sports, and those in attendance at the O2 on March 8th can no doubt expect fireworks.

With the addition of Pickett vs Seery, UFC Fight Night 37 now includes:

Also confirmed for the Main Card:
Alexander Gustafsson vs Jimi Manuwa
Melvin Guillard vs. Michael Johnson
Brad Pickett vs. Neil Seery
Omari Akhmedov vs. Gunnar Nelson

Preliminary Card: 

Cyrille Diabate vs. IIir Latifi
Luke Barnatt vs. Mats Nilsson
Bradley Scott vs. Claudio Henrique da Silva
Roland Delorme vs. Davey Grant
Igor Araujo vs. Danny Mitchell
Louis Gaudinot vs. Phil Harris

15 European Fighters Who Could Sign for The UFC in 2014 (Part 1)

15 European Fighters Who Could Sign for The UFC in 2014 (Part 1)
by Chris Houten - @mrhouts

2014 is set to be the busiest year in the UFC's history with between 40 to 50 cards planned for the year. The UFC are looking to expand in a big way this year, and with Garry Cook at the helm as Executive Vice President and Managing Director of Europe, 2014 is set to be a huge year for European MMA.

With a minimum of 6 European cards planned for 2014, Joe Silva and Sean Shelby will need to book around 72 fights just for Europe - that's 144 fighters! With all of these cards expected to take place on the UFCs new online subscription service Fight Pass, its likely Silva and Shelby will be looking to add local talent to these cards, to not only sell tickets but to keep the cost of the cards down.

With so many talented fighters in European, we look at some of the names which the UFC could add over the next year. Starting with our first 5 names, in NO particular order.

Jan Blachowicz - Poland
The first of several Polish fighters on this list, 30 year old Jan Blachowicz has established himself as one of the best light-heavyweights in the world not signed to the UFC. At 17-3, Blachowicz has not lost a fight since 2011. Since then he has defeated four UFC vets in a row - Sokoudjou, Mario Maranda, Houston Alexander and Goran Reljić on route to earning and defending the KSW light-heavyweight title.

Popular in his native Poland, Blachowicz is no doubt on a far better contract than the UFCs standard 6k & 6k, but with the growing trend of light-heavyweights dropping to 185 - Machida, Mousasi, and Te Tuna all in recent months, and a proposed UFC debut in Poland this year, Blachowicz would be an excellent addition to the promotions 205lb division.

Max Nunes - Sweden
Had Max Nunes not lost to Jason Jones at Bamma 13 for the first pro loss of his career, it's likely the Swedish fighter would have already been signed to the UFC.

After suffering a set back against Jones, Nunes bounced back by dropping to middleweight and picking up a unanimous decision victory against Ion Pascu. With several Scandinavian's already booked for UFC London, the UFC may look to add to their roster for their annual return to Sweden. At 12-1 with 11 finishes, Max Nunes would be a worthy addition a UFC card in Sweden particularly if the 24 year old can pick up another win or two before then.

Mamed Khalidov - Poland
Easily the fighter most worthy of a place on the UFC roster on this list, Khalidov is a top 10 middleweight with an outstanding 28-4 record which includes an impressive 27 finishes. What's more 12 of those victories are over former or current UFC fighters.

A huge star in Poland, the KSW champion is Poland's equivalent of Conor McGregor, appearing on various national adverts and TV talkshows, and could easily headline a sold out arena when the UFC make their debut in Poland this year.

A stumbling block however  could be the reported $30,000 Khalidov earns per fight, and the sponsorship deal Khalidov could lose by joining the UFC, these were the reasons sited in 2012 when Khalidov turned down a UFC contract. With a card planned in Poland in 2014 though, it would be worth the UFC matching Khalidov's current contract just for the revenue he would bring to that card alone.

James Brum - UK
James 'Job Done' Brum has been doing just that - getting the job done for 2 years straight. Currently on an 8-fight win streak, Brum has not lost since Bamma 7 in September 2011 when he was defeated by current UFC bantamweight Erik Perez.

Currently Europe's highest ranked bantamweight not signed to the UFC, Brum has fought all of his Cage Warriors fights outside of the UK showing the ability to win and make weight around the world making James Brum a great addition to the UFC's Bantamweight division.

Neil Seery - Ireland
The UFC will make their long awaited return to Ireland this year and will no doubt be in the market for some of the finest local talent, and Neil Seery is one of the finest fighters Ireland have to offer right now.

While Seery may not have the best record in European MMA, Seery is popular, and has put together a 4 fight win streak on route to winning the Cage Warriors flyweight title; a division the UFC certainly could do with adding to.

Seery would be a popular addition amongst local fans to UFC Dublin 2014.

CLICK HERE TO READ PART 2 NOW

Interview: Ulysses Gomez 'I'll Put Him Away in the 3rd"

Interview: Ulysses Gomez 'I'll Put Him Away in the 3rd"
by Chris Houten - @mrhouts

This Saturday Uysses Gomez meets Cage Warriors inaugural Flyweight champion Neil Seery in on of the biggest flyweight fights this country has ever seen.

A former Tachi Palace Fights Champion at both Flyweight and Bantamweight Gomez is an accomplished grappler having finished 7 of his 9 victories by submission.

Kingdom MMA's Chris Houten caught up with Gomez shortly after he arrived in Newcastle, to discuss why he signed with Cage Warriors, Neil Seery, and possibly returning to the UFC.

Houten: On December 7th you will fight Neil Seery for the Cage Warriors Flyweight title, when do you fly over for the fight?
Gomez: Just landed a few hours ago. Feeling pretty good.

There are some excellent promotions back home putting on some great fights, why did you decide to fight for Cage Warriors in the UK?
They have a great show with a huge fan base that allows me to travel the world. Was a fairly easy choice for me.

Your last fight was in the UK against Phil Harris, how did cutting weight in the UK compare to cutting it back home in the states, and do you plan do to anything differently this time now you have experienced a cut abroad?
Cutting weight always sucks but it's part of the game.

How much did you know about Neil Seery before accepting this fight?
He's scrappy, [he] throws hard and [is] decent off his back. Oh and he's Irish too.

How much do you know about Neil Seery now you are fighting him on December 7th? Have you studied much footage on Seery?
I've seen a few of his fights but I don't study my opponents too much, I focus on my gameplan instead of what they try plan on doing.

How has the camp gone for this fight and when did you start training specifically for this fight?
Camp went well. Some days I was the hammer some days I was the nail.

Have you done anything specifically to prepare for this fight?
[It's] Just another fight - hard sparring and hard work man.

What do you think of Neil Seerys submission game?
It's decent but not on my level.

How would you say your striking matches up to Seery?
I think he throws hard but I feel that I'm more technical on my feet.

Based on your previous experience do you feel you’re more equipped for a 5 round fight?
I'm confident going 5 rounds, I put the work in.

How do you envision the fight going on Saturday, and how do you see yourself winning?
In the 3rd round. Gonna be a tough fight but I'll put him away.

Win or lose do you plan to continue fighting for Cage Warriors?
Yeah man [they are] threat me well.

Do you see winning the Cage Warrior title as a stepping-stone to getting back to the UFC or for now are you taking it one fight at a time?
I have to win first.

How will winning the Cage Warriors title compare to the 2 TPF titles you have won?
It's my road back to the top.

Finally, is there anyone you would like to thank for help getting you prepared for this fight?
All my coaches and team mates at Cobra Kai Jiu Mitsubishi and gil Martinez.

Neil Seery Defends Title Against Former UFC Fighter Ulysses Gomez at Cage Warriors 62

Neil Seery Defends Title Against Former UFC Fighter Ulysses Gomez at Cage Warriors 62
by Chris Houten - @mrhouts

Photo: Dolly Clew | Cage Warriors

Neil Seery will defend his Cage Warriors Flyweight Title at Cage Warriors 62 in December against former UFC fighter and Tachi Palace Fights champion Ulysses Gomez.

Seery (13-9), who made history in his native Dublin back in June, when he submitted Mikael Silander to become CWFC’s first ever flyweight champion, will defend his belt for the first time against Gomez. Prior to becoming champion, the 34-year old Irishman rattled off wins against Mark Platts, Karl Harrison and Paul Marin to secure his shot at the vacant 125lbs title. 

Seery said: “I’m looking forward to defending the belt against Ulysses Gomez in Newcastle. He’s a high-calibre opponent with experience at the top level, but I won’t give up this belt easily.” 

His opponent Gomez (9-4) made his name winning the Tachi Palace Fights Bantamweight Title, where he defeated Cody Gibson by guillotine choke, before joining the UFC as a flyweight, where he lost both of his fights to John Moraga and Phil Harris respectively.

30 year old Gomez, who has not fought since is February lost to Harris at UFC on Fuel 7 in London has takes 7 of 9 victories by way of submission, with his only losses coming to UFC fighters Moraga, Harris, Darrell Montague, and world no.1 strawweight Rambaa Sombet.

“Fighting for the Cage Warriors belt is a huge honour. Becoming Cage Warriors champion will prove that I’m one of the best fighters in the world.” Said Gomez ahead of his fight with Seery.

Cage Warriors 62 takes place at the Metro Radio Arena, Newcastle on the 7th of December, and also see newly crowned Bantamweight champ, Brett Johns defend his title against James Brum. Tickets are expected to go on sale soon.

Cage Warriors announces four more Dublin dates

Four Dublin dates confirmed for CWFC

(Dolly Clew | Cage Warriors)

The Helix has penned a deal with Cage Warriors Fighting Championship to host the promotion’s next quartet of Dublin events.

The deal will see Cage Warriors hit Ireland’s capital on four occasions between 31 December, 2013, and the corresponding date in 2014, giving Dublin three consecutive New Year’s Eve events following the enormous success of last December’s Cage Warriors 51.

In addition to the New Year’s Eve events of 2013 and 2014, The Helix will also play host to Cage Warriors on Saturday, March 8, and Saturday, July 26, next year.

“We’re delighted to be making such a strong commitment to the Irish market over a 12-month period, particularly at a such a fantastic venue,” said Cage Warriors CEO Graham Boylan.

“After selling out our previous shows there, the huge demand and interest from the Irish fans could have convinced us to choose a bigger venue, but the intimate nature of The Helix has contributed to making our previous Dublin shows so special.

“We’ve had some very memorable Cage Warriors moments at The Helix already and I’m looking forward to seeing more of those with this next batch of events, starting with CWFC 63 this New Year’s Eve.”

Cage Warriors’ dates for The Helix, Dublin:

Tuesday, 31 December 2013
Saturday, 8 March, 2014
Saturday, 26 July, 2014
Wednesday, 31 December, 2014

CWFC first came to The Helix in June of last year when Conor McGregor defeated Dave Hill to capture the promotion’s vacant featherweight title at Cage Warriors 47.

McGregor stole the show again last New Year’s Eve at CWFC 51, when a first-round KO of Ivan Buchinger saw the Irishman become the first fighter to simultaneously hold CWFC titles in two unified weight classes.

More history was made when CWFC most recently visited The Helix for Cage Warriors 55 this past June, when Dublin’s own Neil Seery submitted Mikael Silander to become the first ever CWFC flyweight champion.

Tickets for Cage Warriors 63 this New Year’s Eve will go on sale shortly. For fight announcements and ticket news, keep track of Cage Warriors on Facebook and Twitter.

Photo: Conor McGregor with the CWFC featherweight and lightweight belts in the aftermath of his historic win over Ivan Buchinger at The Helix last December.

Neil Seery "Losing is not an option" at Cage Warriors 55

Kingdom MMA chat to Neil Seery before his Cage Warriors flyweight title fight

by Ben Heather @benheather

Today Kingdom MMA caught up with Neil Seery ahead of his title fight this evening, that fight will decide who will become the first ever Cage Warriors Flyweight champion and is the co main event to the Che Mills vs Cathal Pendred fight.

Ben: How does It feel to be fighting to become the first flyweight cage Warriors title?
Seery: Great but a lot of pressure.

Ben: What was your reaction when you got the call to say they wanted you in the title fight?
Seery: It was an easy decision, YES!

Ben: Were you originally part of the planned four man tournament that was scheduled for the Cage Warriors 55 event?
Seery: I was offered a place but nothing was confirmed for the tournament.

Ben: How are you feeling knowing today is the day you will be walking out in your home town to fight for the title?
Seery: Great

Ben: Do you feel that the crowd will be able to urge you on to win that title tonight?
Seery: Yeah, I love my Irish fans.  I know it is in Dublin and I am at home fighting but it makes no difference where I am.

Ben: Have you felt the hype surrounding Irish MMA the past couple of months since Connor's fight in the UFC?
Seery: Conor has been great for the Irish MMA exposure and I just hope the trend continues. I have not felt the hype but I hear what my fans and teammates say so there must be something!

Ben: What is the Irish MMA scene like, do you feel there is a lot of up and comers waiting to rise up the ranks in Ireland?
Seery: Yes, just look at Paul Redmond twitter handle @redsermma

Ben: It seems Cathal Pendred is doing everything he can to get a fight in the UFC, do you feel winning the cage warriors title could put you on the UFC's radar?
Seery: I'm not even thinking about the next chapter, very happy with Cage Warriors and what they have done for me.

Ben: Was dropping to Flyweight the best decision you made in your career, since the drop you are 5-2 and won more flyweight fights under the cage warriors banner than anyone else.
Seery: I was always a flyweight the division just had no depth in Europe so I was forced to fight heavier bigger guys.  Hence my mixed record.  I was always competitive but only since Cage Warriors have I had the opportunity to show it.

Ben: On Saturday night you are fighting Mikael Silander, what do you expect from him on fight night?
Seery: I expect him to bring his best and try to submit me. 

Ben: What is key to you getting the win tonight, do you have a game plan and how do you expect the fight to go?
Seery: I am expecting a hard tough fight, this fight is make or break for me.  Game Plan is to JUST FIGHT!

Ben: Where do you go in your career should you lose, is the fight tonight make or break for you?
Seery: Losing is not an option

Ben: Thank you for your time Neil, would you like to say any thank you's?
Seery: Yes I would like to thank Andy Ryan, Team Ryano, all my teammates, John Kavanagh and the SBG lads, Conor McGregor, Legacy Fight Wear, Aduco Health, Urbana Hair Removal, Spiral Life Therapy and Seafield Charter House.

Pendred vs Mills now a 3 round non title fight after Mills misses weight

Cage Warriors 55 weigh in results

Cathal Pendred and Che Mills (Photo: Dolly Clew | Cage Warriors)

Cathal Pendred’s CWFC welterweight title will no longer be on the line at Cage Warriors 55 after Che Mills failed to make weight this afternoon. The pair were scheduled to do battle for Pendred’s belt in tomorrow evening’s main event at The Helix in Dublin.
However, while the fight will still go ahead over three rounds instead of five, Mills’ failure to make the contracted weight means the strap unfortunately won’t be at stake. Mills will also surrender 25 percent of his purse to Pendred.

Mills later took to twitter to apologise "Firstly I must apologise to @CageWarriors & the fans. Nobody to blame but myself & making no excuses." He then went on to say "I just hope that everyone still tunes in to cagewarriors.tv". Mills finished by saying "It is gunna be a war which I will WIN no doubt about it!"

Elsewhere, there were no problems for Neil Seery and Mikael Silander ahead of their historic CWFC flyweight title fight, with both fighters coming in under the 125lbs limit.

MAIN CARD

Welterweight: Cathal Pendred (champion, 169.5lbs) v Che Mills* (170.7lbs)
Flyweight: Neil Seery (124.8lbs) v Mikael Silander (124.1lbs) – inaugural CWFC flyweight title bout
190lbs catchweight: Chris Fields (188.7lbs) v Norman Paraisy (189.3lbs)
Lightweight: Marc Allen (154.7lbs) v Paul Redmond (155.8lbs)
139lbs catchweight: Steve McCombe (139.2lbs) v Jean N’Doye (140lbs)

FACEBOOK PRELIMS

Welterweight: Piotr Ptasinski (168.8lbs) v John Redmond (170.9lbs)
150lbs catchweight: Stephen Coll (148.9lbs) v Liam James (147.5lbs)

NON-STREAMED PRELIMS

Middleweight: Sam Francis (183.8lbs) v Konrad Iwanowski (184.8lbs)
Bantamweight: Gavin Kelly (135.9lbs) v Ben Rees (135.7lbs)

*Mills initially came in at 171.2lbs but failed to make the contracted weight within the two-hour limit; now a non-title bout to be contested over three rounds and Mills surrenders 25 percent of his purse to Pendred

3 Fights Added to Cage Warriors 53 Including Joanne Calderwood vs. Sally Krumdiack

A Strawweight bout Joanne Calderwood (5-0) and Sally Krumdiack (9-6) has been confirmed as the co-main event for Cage Warriors 53, which takes place April 13th at Kelvin Hall in Glasgow, Scotland.

Calderwood, a Muay Thai Vet who hold a 19-2 kickboxing record before beginning her career in MMA, will look to extend her Pro MMA record to 6 and 0 - which includes 2 wins under the Invicta FC banner, in her native Scotland when she takes on American Sally Kumdiack, who returns to the promotion for the first time since her TKO loss to Rossi Sexton.

Other additions to the card include lightweights Jason Ball (19-11) vs. Jason Cooledge (7-3) and flyweights Paul Marin (5-2) vs. Neil Seery (11-9).

Ball, who has faced the creme of the UK lightweight scene, enters the bout having just picked submission victory over Craig Allen at Bamma 12, snapping a 3 fight losing streak which included losses to Colin Fletcher, Andre Winner, and Leonardro Santos.

His opponent, Cooledge who is currently enjoying a 3-1 run, will be making his promotional debut at Cage Warriors 53.

Cage Warriors 53 also sees Paul Marin, a Romanian fighter, who returns to the cage following a loss to Paul McVeigh at Cage Warriors 52, take on Neil Seery, an Irishman who's is currently on a 4-1 run.

The latest Cage Warriors 53 card includes:
Jim Alers vs. Joni Salovaara - for vacant featherweight title
Joanne Calderwood vs. Sally Krumdiack
Mats Nilsson vs. Chris Scott
Jason Ball vs. Jason Cooledge
Paul Marin vs. Neil Seery
James Doolan vs. James Pennington

For More on Cage Warriors 53, stay tune to the Calendar section on our site.