For Immediate Release:
Oct. 31, 2010
For more information contact:
Jim Perez
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Team USA Makes 1st Overseas Trip
3 Fighters, Coach Heading to Lavorno, Italy for Nov. 19 Headline Event
SCHAUMBURG, IL – Three fighters from Team USA have been invited to fight Nov. 19 in Lavorno, Italy. Team USA fights under the umbrella of the Mixed Martial Arts Sport Federation, which is based in Schaumburg.
Team USA Coach Joe Worden, of Caledonia, said, “When I received the phone call from MMASF President Rob Zibilski, asking us to represent the U.S.A., I knew this was going to be huge. Working with the MMASF has been great and I can see even greater things in the future. This is just the beginning.”
The fighters traveling to Italy include Austin Mitchell Knight, of Farmington, Mo., (4-0, 147 lbs.); Jason Alan Slattery, of Florissant, Mo., (7-0, 165 lbs.); and Alexander Randle White, of Ironton, Mo., (9-0, 154 lbs.).
“I am proud and honored to be able to represent the United States in Italy, as a part of Team USA,” White said. “An opportunity like this is what I have worked hard for, and I am extremely excited. I will do my best to show the U.S.A. and my coaches they made the right choice in picking me for the team.”
Slattery said, “I feel it is a great opportunity to be a part of Team USA. This fight will allow me to showcase my skills in front of an international audience against one of Italy’s best fighters. I am grateful for the boost the MMASF has given my career.”
Knight summed up the fighters’ feelings, saying, “This is what fighters train for: Fighting overseas against a great opponent. This fight is the shot of a lifetime for me. When an opportunity like this comes along, to represent our country, it’s a great honor. I truly appreciate everything the MMASF had done for me.”
Zbilski, president of the MMASF, said, “This is the first in a series of fights held overseas that Team USA will compete in. The invitation is a testament to the popularity of mixed martial arts in the United States. The enthusiasm and fervor of U.S. fans is now spilling over into the international arena. The sport of mixed martial arts is growing exponentially in popularity here and internationally. We are proud to represent the U.S. in this historic event.
“The MMASF is affiliated with more than 20 other countries, including Italy, the host of the Nov. 19 event, the World Mixed Martial Arts Federation and the World Association of Kickboxing Organizations,” Zbilski said. “The Italy fight is one of a series of competitions that will culminate in June 2011, with the Mixed Martial Arts World Championships in Odessa, Ukraine.”
“The Nov. 19 event promises to showcase some of the world’s best young fighting talent,” Zbilski said. “The U.S. will fight to secure its status as a dominant power in mixed martial arts at a time when the sport is becoming increasingly global and more competitive. This is one of the ‘must see’ fighting events of the year.”
Worden added that, “The fighters, including myself, believe highly in the team concept. Being on a team that represents our country is an honor and a privilege that we don't take lightly. Win or lose, we want to represent the U.S.A. by showing respect, discipline and sportsmanship. As a coach, to help these young fighters reach their goals, is a big responsibility. It’s a fulfilling job, and something I take seriously.”
Zbilski said that, “In July, Team USA hosted and defeated Team World, which was comprised of teams representing Australia, Ireland and Poland. For 2011, we have received verbal commitments from Team Mexico for a January fight in Chicago, and from Team Australia for a spring fight here.
“As Team USA gains more notice for its skills in the ring, more and more teams from around the world will want to step into the cage with us, so we are always looking for the best, young fighters to fight for a tryout with our team,” he said.
Team USA’s next challenge matches will be held Nov. 12 at Real Time Sports Bar in St. Charles, Ill. Team USA fighters Matt Paul, Jordan Mitchell and Devon Miller will be on the card that night.
Fighters interested in fighting for a spot on Team USA can contact the MMASF on Facebook at the MMA Sport Federation page.
About the Mixed Martial Arts Sport Federation
The Mixed Martial Arts Sport Federation follows Olympic tradition and champions the highest ideals of international sportsmanship. The MMASF provides an opportunity for the best young fighters in the United States to train and develop their skills inside and outside the cage while competing on teams against some of the best fighters in the world.
The MMASF is bringing a new chapter to the mixed martial arts scene by promoting sportsmanship and athleticism in the mixed martial arts – a refreshing change that will mean more fights and higher quality entertainment.
The MMASF is opening up a world of opportunity for the best young fighters to pursue their passion and build their skills and reputation. The MMASF is also opening up a world of opportunity for the non-fan by educating them on the positive aspects of the sport – life-long training, conditioning, athleticism and sportsmanship.
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