The Score Fighting Series’ commitment to MMA in Canada yielded prosperous dividends, as their organization delivered a great show from Hamilton, Ontario.
The Score Fighting Series (TSFS) 5 proved that Canada has a rich talent base that is capable of producing a high quality show at the Hamilton Place Theatre.
There were 10 fights and 19 of the combatants were Canadian. The action was scintillating and the talent undeniable.
Fans and fighters alike benefited from the event. TSFS broadcasted their fifth card last night for free on live cable television and through live steaming from The Score’s website: http://video.thescore.com/channels/score-fighting-series.
Free works for fans.
This is especially beneficial as many pay-per-view buyers have been let down with recent UFC shows, such as UFC 149 Calgary. The audience receives excellent commentary from veteran Mauro Ranallo.
TSFS recently reached an agreement to run six or more shows over the next 12 months on the American cable network station AXS TV.
These are the steps that will help edge MMA closer to mainstream recognition and make being a full-time professional MMA fighter a reachable dream for Canadians.
This will allow for the fighters to be seen on television internationally and online across the globe—an obvious benefit for their marketability.
While traditionally combat sports organizations strive to protect their most marketable bannerman, a refreshing aspect of TSFS is how they groom Ontario fighters, but do not protect them.
TSFS is developing fighters and rewarding fans, without jeopardizing the integrity of athletic competition.
For example, Alex Ricci battled the very dangerous Jesse Ronson in the co-main event. Ricci, who was 5-0 going into the match lost an exciting bout to Jesse Ronson (11-2).
Ricci had won all of his previous bouts with knockouts in highlight fashion. Despite being their poster boy (it was Ricci’s fourth fight on a TSFS card) and losing his undefeated record, the company proved that the show comes first.
The two produced an amazing fight and displayed excellent all-around skills, highlighted with elite striking. There were no losers.
This match-up is an exemplification of the company’s mandate of promoting quality action and helping promote Canadian talent. Ricci and Ronson are blue-chip prospects that are earmarked for the UFC and their stock values were enhanced, and not diminished by their performances.
Tristan Johnson has also been groomed by the company, but was never given “set-up” matches to boost his record.
The only non-Canadian, Rick Glenn (11-2), who trains with Duke Rufus and had undefeated Bellator champ Ben Asren in his corner was never going to be a carpet for Johnson. Rufus is credited for teaching Anthony Pettis the amazing “Showtime” kick that wowed the world. Although the fans were pleased with the action, the result fell in the American’s favour .This again proves how TSFS works for the show and not to provide “set-up” fights for those under their banner.
This is a testament to the company’s matchmaker, Alex Caporicci, and his aim to produce the best fights possible and not simply stack records. Having an undefeated fighter with five knockouts under one’s banner is a prize for any company, so having him tested with high caliber opponents speaks volumes for the spirit of TSFS.
In the main event, Josh Hill (fighting on his third TSFS card), improved his record to 9-0 by defeating John Fraser. Fraser was unable to continue his seven-fight win streak as he succumbed to Hill’s takedowns and aggressive top game.
Fraser should be becoming close to the UFC’s radar with his continued dominance of top competition. He proved he could handle the main event stage.
The night was a success because the fans saw great fights due to the card’s design, which pits the best against the best. The level of action was quality enough to make the argument that TSFS is the best non-Zuffa show in the world.
TSFS is more than just a forum for Canadians to compete professionally. It is a legitimate organization that produces real fighters and promotes the sport holistically. The night’s success made professional MMA fighting that much more of a plausible career option for Canadian fighters. It is also very successful as the fans have free access. The fighters are not only given a chance to compete in front of their friends, family, teammates and fan base but a chance to be the best they can be.
The next card will take place on Oct. 19 in Sarnia, Ontario, and will be broadcast for free and live on
the Score and AXS-TV.
The main event will feature London, Ontario’s Chris Horodecki. Chris is a WEC veteran and trains with the famed Team Adrenaline and is known for his penchant for pleasing fans. His opponent might be Rick Glenn who called him out after his win over Johnson.
Here is a summary of the event results:
- Josh Hill defeats John Fraser via unanimous decision (30-27 x 3)
- Jesse Ronson defeats Alex Ricci via unanimous decision (30-27 x 3)
- Rick Glenn defeats Tristan Johnson via TKO (punches), 4:26 of round two
- Kyle Prepolec defeats Jason Meisel via submission (triangle choke), 2:58 of round two
- Elias Theodorou defeats Simon Marini via unanimous decision (30-27 x 3)
- Jason Saggo defeats Eric Attard via submission (rear-naked choke), 3:24 of round one
- Ryan Dickson defeats Chris St. Jean via TKO (Punches), 2:42 of round one
- Adam Assenza defeats Taylor Solomon via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
- Eric Montgomery defeats Frank Marques via TKO (Doctor Stoppage), 4:20 of round one
- Jeff Sharkey defeats Robert Thomas via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
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