Duke RUOFUS Gym Archived Articles

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA: For those who didn't make it to the K-1 in Las Vegas this last year, you had another chance to see top North American Heavyweight action in Milwaukee Wisconsin, USA... Yes, Milwaukee... Home of great cheese, Miller Beer, the Brewers and the Bucks.

But it appears they will all need to take a backseat to the new game in town, the "HEAVYWEIGHT GLADIATORS" Professional Kickboxing Series! A high energy event with lights, lasers and smoke that was all just the icing on a cake that was made up of great heavyweight fighters from Mexico, USA and Canada.

It was a K-1 style event with a far less budget to work with but with just as much if not more exciting fights than K-1 offered this year, and once again... In Milwaukee... Not the bright lights and high ticket prices of the super city of Las Vegas...

The road to the top seems to lead through the mighty Midwest for a lot of things in sports and on this night, kickboxing was no different. Not only was tonight's Heavyweight Gladiators a sell out, but the event also raised nearly $1,300,00 for the New York Victim's Families Fire & Police Assistance Fund. There were no losers on this event tonight.

The crowd was treated to 7 fantastic K-1 style (Modified Muaythai, no elbows) bouts of which 2 were amateur and 5 were pro bouts. Promoter Scott Joffe took over the promotional responsibilities while his business partner, Duke RUOFUS was allowed to focus on another challenge... Getting past IKF Pro Mexico National Super Heavyweight MTR Champion Pedro "The Pitbull" Fernandez.

In charge on this night was Joffe's Ad Cetera Sports, who presented tonight's "Heavyweight Gladiators" at the famous Rave Eagles Grand Ballroom in downtown Milwaukee, Wisconsin with of course, Milwaukee's favorite Main Event "Duke."

It wasn't to be an easy task for the 4-time World Champion and K-1 veteran Duke RUOFUS. Fernandez seems to do very well in single bout events having won 16 of them with 15 wins by KO/TKO's. Of his only 3 loses, 2 of them came in the K-1 Tournament style competition against Maurice Smith and Duke's brother Rick RUOFUS. If your going to have 2 losses on your record, those are surly 2 names you can have pride in facing yet losing to. But tonight he faced another great name in the sport and the Duke had no desire to lose in front of his hometown crowd.

Things started out differently. Midway into the first round, Fernandez threw a spinning backhand and got turned around with his back to RUOFUS. RUOFUS jumped on the attack striking with 2 strong knees to the rear of Fernandez' right leg, the 3rd knee dropped Fernandez to the ring in pain. One of the knees had obviously hit a nerve as referee Al Wichgers started a count. High into the count Fernandez stood up and the bout continued. As round 1 ended it was an easy 10-8 for RUOFUS.

In round 2, RUOFUS came out strong again but this time, so did Fernandez. Each time RUOFUS landed some strong scoring blows, Fernandez powered back with some of his own. As the round wore of, RUOFUS was the clear aggressor and at the end of round 2, all 3 judges gave it to RUOFUS again, 10-9.

In round 3, RUOFUS once again started strong but this time, Fernandez wasn't answering back as quickly if at all as he was in round 2. RUOFUS landed several really strong leg kicks to Fernandez' left leg with hands to back it up. At the end of 3, all 3 judges had RUOFUS in the round, 10-9.

What many thought was a late round war in the making though was not to be as Fernandez informed the referee at the end of the 3-4 break that he was unable to continue. The first shots to the back of his leg in the opening round and the strong leg kicks by RUOFUS in the 3rd had done him in. RUOFUS won by TKO at the break of rounds 3 and 4, upping his record to 35 wins with 7 loses, 1 draw and 26 wins by KO or TKO. On the other side of the ring, Fernandez suffers only his 4th loss vs 16 wins.

What's next for Fernandez only time will tell. As for RUOFUS, another shot at the K-1 trophy is always on his mind and tonight he proved he's still the American to beat in the race for the North American K-1 title.

In the nights Semi Main event, IKF Pro East Coast Heavyweight Champion "Lightning" Lane Collyer (right) was just happy to get a fight. In his last 4 bookings, Collyer's opponent had backed out every time. However on this night, his opponent has no history of pulling out of fights, but he does have a history of wining. Collyer, of Atlanta, Georgia with a 17-2 record and 10 KO/TKO's faced off against Pittsburgh Pennsylvania's Mark Miller.

At the opening bell, Miller raced out and threw a picture perfect ax kick that barely missed Collyer. But Miller wasn't finished as he followed with a strong knee to Collyer's body which was quickly followed with the two going into a clinch. After a few moments, Referee Wichgers broke the two up and from that moment on, things changed.

Collyer seemed to relax a bit and went on the attack landing several strong shots himself. Knees to the body, some even to Miller's head which he seemed to block. Collyer added some strong leg kicks which were followed up by some good hand combinations that included strong body shots and a spinning backhand. As Miller answered back himself, Collyer seemed to answer with 2 more. Finally at 2: 35 of the first scheduled 3 minute round, referee Al Wichgers stopped the bout. Collyer had won by TKO.

The first semi main event could have easily been billed as a Main Event on any card. Raul Romero Gonzalez of Mexico City Mexico and Jason "Gladiator" Johnson of Milwaukee, Wisconsin look like 2 chiseled male models ready for either a bodybuilding contest or a shot in GQ magazine.

These two simply spell out the look of a Gladiator. Gonzalez at 229 lbs. and Johnson at 218 lbs. probably had a combined body fat of 3%... if that. As the two met in the ring, few women wanted to see these faces get scared, but the truth is, these two are indeed true Gladiators, which is what they came into the ring on this night to be... GLADIATORS!

Johnson had the support of America's elite fighting military, the US Marines. Johnson himself was a Marine and proudly wore the Semper Fi label on his American Red White and Blue shorts. It was as if Johnson carried America on his shoulders into this fight, and he had no desire to let America down. However, Gonzalez was also a proud countryman and he too carried the hearts of his country as well.

As the round started, both showed respect for the other, choosing their shots wisely and carefully. As the round got going Gonzalez started to score with knees to the body quite often. Johnson countered back with knees, as well, and when on the outside, the two evenly exchanged punches and leg kicks.

Then suddenly, like the dropping of an atomic bomb, Johnson lifted up his powerful right leg and landed it squarely on the side of Gonzalez' head dropping the big man to the canvas. The blow sent a thunderous ringing throughout Gonzalez' head and although he tried to shake it off he couldn't.

He tried to stand but he seemed to be off balance and as he sat back down to the canvas, referee Al Wichgers waived the end of the bout. Johnson had scored an American victory at 1:33 of round 1 but don't be fooled here, Gonzales will be back again. On the other side of the ring, Johnson will now prepare to fight one of the most famous heavyweights in Europe, Paris "GOLDEN GREEK" Vasilikos of Greece in December of this year. The winner of this bout will get a shot against IKF Super Heavyweight World Champion Matt Skelton of England.

In the other bouts of the night, former IKF Amateur Canadian Champion Giuseppe DeNatale added another pro win to his record with a 2nd round stop of Kent Hensley who was making his pro debut. A special thank you to Hensley who was a late fill-in of another fighter who pulled out just weeks before the event. DeNatale stopped Hensley with a strong body kick at 51 seconds into round 2 making a strong bid for his spot in the K-1 USA Tournament as well.

Making their pro debut's tonight were 2, 1999 IKF National Amateur Champions. 1999 IKF U.S. Amateur Cruiserweight Champion "Bad" Brad Fowler, of Duke RUOFUS Gym faced off against 1999 IKF U.S. Amateur Heavyweight Champion Bryan "The Alabama Slammer" Waid, of Alabama Kickboxing, Jasper, AL. Neither had been very busy in the ring since winning their National titles, but both had other things on their minds.

Fowler simply took some time off for a much needed break and Waid was faced with the untimely passing away of his trainer leaving him with no trainer in his hometown. It was an emotional comeback for Waid who came with no trainer to help him, but was willing to "Walk the Walk," as any true Champion would. For Fowler, it was a long awaited comeback for the Milwaukee superstar by his many fans.

This bout had everything one would expect in a Champion vs. Champion bout. In round 1, these two threw more than most fighters throw in a 5 round bout. From sweeps to high kicks, strong knees to stopping jabs, these two proved they knew how to fight. Waid had easily dominated and won the first half of the round while Fowler seemed to blossom late and take the second half. After 1, one judge had it 10-10 even and the other 2 judges had it a close 10-9 for Fowler.

However, a second round was not to be as Waid called a stop to the bout himself while still in the corner after round 1 stating his left leg was too badly injured. It was the pro debut for both and if these two have anything to offer in their pro careers like they did as amateurs, look out world, there's some new kids on the block ready to take the world by storm!

It was the only bout of the night that went to the judges cards and only 1 of 2 amateur bouts. As we say in the IKF Fight Game, it was an experience of 2 fighters willing to "Walk the Walk!" Altoona, Pennsylvania's Kirk Robinson came in at 252 lbs. and looking to improve on his record as a Muaythai fighter. His opponent, 201 lb. fighter Bryce Frank of Rockford, Illinois was looking to do the same.

Each had fought as full contact fighters and both had made the switch to Muaythai only recently. After 3 strong rounds by both fighters, the score seemed one sided, yet it was as close as could be with only 1 point separating the 2 fighters in each round.

In the end, all 3 judges scored it 30-27 in favor of Bryce Frank. As amateurs, both Robinson and Frank look forward to "Walking the Walk" at the 2002 IKF USA Nationals. A few more bouts in their newly learned style and we're sure to see some more experienced fighters come National Tournament time. Good luck on your way to the Big Show Gentlemen.

The amateur bout that started off the night was a light middleweight showdown between Alessio Zeal of Appleton, Wisconsin and Tony Randazzo of Milwaukee Wisconsin. This bout was all Randazzo, as he gave Zeal a standing 8 count in round 1 and 2 and while Zeal was taking his 3rd in round 3, he informed referee Al Wichgers that he was done at 1 minute of the round.

But wait a moment.... There was actually much more that started off the night. A special 3 round exhibition by Champion vs. Champion and training partners, 2001 IKF USA Amateur Light Welterweight Champion "Crush 'em" Casey Garza, of the Duke RUOFUS Gym, Burlington, Wisconsin and 2001 IKFUSA Amateur Welterweight Champion "Nasty" Neal Fox, of the Duke RUOFUS Gym, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Both put on a great controlled exhibition to get the crowd warmed up. However before it all started, the USMC took center ring with all the fighters at their sides. A moment of silence followed by the singing of the National Anthem set the stage for the big night.

This was truly going to be a night of something special. The first of MANY to come. The first of the a new promotion for a new time. It's a New America, a New Game now and those who were all part of tonight kicked it off with a bang! They were all a part of something special, win or lose, everyone won tonight. If you missed it, you owe it to yourself to make sure you don't miss the next one..."Bring It ON! HEAVYWEIGHT GLADIATORS!!!"

The new venue was immaculate, with excellent facilities for fighters and fans. To put together an international show of this quality is an awesome task. Duke RUOFUS has had the foresight to see the future in Muaythai. But more than that he is doing it in the present. He has a very qualified work force that know what they are doing. I hope in the future I can mention all the fine people that donate their time and effort in putting on these events.

But now I want to tell you about a man that never ceases to amaze me, he constantly is doing ten things at once, speaking on two cell phones at once, directing people setting up the seats, handling the media, checking on ticket sales, making sure everyone gets picked up at the airport, and at the hotel, seeing that everyone eats. He even was at the weigh-in solving problems, his name is SCOTT JOFFE. Not only does he accomplish all these duties competently, but he does them with a smile and a great sense of humor. Scott, thanks for everything.

Now about the fights. Rachel Thomas who fought a great fight two weeks ago in Canada, but lost a close decision, was in top form in her home town, winning over Tracy Kuschel from Omaha. I refereed the last Downey, Zuniga fight, that was called the best amateur fight of 1999.

Here I was again bringing both fighters to the center of the ring for final instructions. Both fighters looked in great shape physically and mentally, Downey just back from a great win in Bangkok. This was to be Zuniga's first pro fight. Fighters back to the corners wait for the bell, I signal George Buse, timekeeper, (who by the way is one of the best officials I have had the pleasure to work with) to start the fight.

The first round was fought with both fighters showing each other respect, come round two, no more respect, Zuniga starts inflicting some brutal punishment on Downey, these round kicks the body are brutal, in the clinch great knee action, this is Muaythai, I see Downey is hurting but at no time did I consider stopping the assault, Downey was still strong and dangerous though he was being hurt.

Round three, the assault continues, now Downey's defense is weakening and "blam" a ferocious kick by Zuniga to Downey's ribs, he goes down, I go down with him and stabilize Downey so he doesn't move, I am thinking broken rib. Doctor David Neimann jumps in the ring and takes over, Downey is ok just bruised ribs and feeling very bad about the loss. Why, when he fought like a warrior and will be back in the gym on Wednesday, preparing for the next battle. Anyway this was a furious battle, and Dave Zuniga fought like a true NOKMUAY, he has my respect.

Next KONGNAPA and SHAKUTA, will this be just another walk in the park for Kong or a serious test of his extraordinary skills, we will see. Round one, Kong dominates with punches and very strong round kicks, I know when something happens it will happen fast, so I stay close to the fighters. Suddenly a Kong hits Shakuta with a smashing punch, Shakuta goes down stunned for the moment. He gets up and I finish the eight count, Kong finishes the round very strong.

Round two Kong is strong scoring at will, seems Shakuta is still to get into the rhythm of the fight.

Round three, same as one and two except, Shakuta has come alive and starting to show why he has such an impressive record, he begins to land hard punches and kicks, and perfect slashing elbows, though most of the elbow strikes are blocked expertly by Kong.

Shakuta dominates round four and five, Kong seems tired and cannot get off as he did in the first three rounds. Shakuta is strong, fearless and confident. The bell sounds for the end of the bout, the crowd is roaring, and excited waiting for the decision. Two judges have it for Kong, one judge has it even, Kong retains the title by a majority decision. Great fight by two talented fighters, maybe the two best at that weight in the USA.

Later that night, Steve Fossum and I, meet with team Belarus and go to the party at the first class Charcoal Grill in Milwaukee, where we meet up most of the fighters and fans. We have dinner with these great sportsmen, for now the fight is forgotten and talk of the rematch begins, this is the way it should be.

Congratulations to everyone that made this a memorable IKF Championship fight. Let me also say this, there were about twelve hard fought Muaythai fights, some were with elbows and knees to the head, maybe 40 rounds of combat, and the only injury was a bruised rib. When the fighters are trained properly, with qualified officials, and proper equipment, this is the safest of all ring sports.

IKF Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA Results
Duke RUOFUS Dominates Dewey Cooper - Downey Overcomes Zuniga

Melding athletic prowess with pure Muaythai artistry, Duke RUOFUS (Duke RUOFUS Gym, Milwaukee, WI) punished a diehard Dewey Cooper (One Kicks Gym, Las Vegas, NV) for 5 hard rounds before winning the Heavyweight bout via unanimous decision.

The 29 year old RUOFUS used his armamentarium of middle kicks to set the tempo and tenderized Cooper's right leg with an onslaught of low kicks. Despite being hurt on a number of occasions, Cooper, a veteran of the K-1, showed tremendous heart and fortitude. A round-by-round synopsis of this action-packed fight can be seen below.

After the bout RUOFUS accurately described Cooper's style as being "awkward and smart." RUOFUS' win punctuated a trip to Italy for a match against the WKA World Heavyweight Champion this November.

In a much anticipated match-up, Dave Zuniga (Winnipeg Sik-Tai) faced Jim "Knock 'em Down" Downey (Duke RUOFUS Gym) in an undercard Light Middleweight WAR. Words alone cannot describe the unbridled battle that occurred between these two calculated, highly regarded amateur phenoms.

Proving his mettle against the more experienced Canadian and winning via tough unanimous decision, Downey fought the fight of his life. This bout could very well be considered THE amateur fight of the year; it was a ballet of savage force between two elite, indefatigable Muaythai athlete-artisans. A round-by-round synopsis of this incredible bout and the other undercard fights can be seen below.

BOUT 1 Lightweight Division - 132 lbs: Darrin Zabriskie (Minneapolis Singpraveh) defeated Jon Ferrer (Winnipeg Sik-Tai) Split Decision (29-28, 30-27, 29-28). Round 1: Zabriskie immediately set the pace of the fight by firing hard leg and middle kicks. Ferrer answered with a hook-cross combination. Both fighters clinched and fired knees to the body. Zabriskie and Ferrer downgraded the fight tempo and resorted to feeling each other out by mid-round. A nice jab-right leg low kick by Zabriskie scored. Ferrer unloaded a crisp cross.

Round 2: Ferrer deftly grabbed Zabriskie's middle kick and took the Minneapolis fighter to the ground. Zabriskie connected with a solid right hand, followed by a crafty high feint-low kick technique. Both fighters exchanged knees. Ferrer checked (i.e., blocked) most of Zabriskie's low kicks.

Round 3: A beautiful left leg head kick by Ferrer landed. Ferrer began worked a solid middle kick followed by a teep (i.e., push kick) that sent Zabriskie reeling backward. Ferrer and Zabriskie exchanged knees. Ferrer and Zabriskie exchanged punches, with Zabriskie landing more leather than Ferrer. A strong teep by Ferrer kept Zabriskie at bay. Both fighters clinched and fell to the canvas at the bell.

BOUT 2 Middleweight Division - 156 lbs: Nathan Clements (Ohio Muaythai) defeated Hutan "Iran Man" Ghojallu (Duke RUOFUS Gym) Unanimous Decision (29-28, 30-27, 30-27). Round 1: Ghojallu exploded and landed a commanding hook punch-right kick combination. Clements and Ghojallu clinched and began kneeing. Ghojallu worked crisp middle kicks. Clements fired a leg kick followed by a side kick. Both fighters exchanged well-placed middle kicks simultaneously. A hook-cross combo by Clements scored. Both exchanged low kicks; Clements picked up the fight pace as the round came to a close.

Round 2: Clements just missed with a spinning backkick. Ghojallu deftly evaded Clements' punch attack. Ghojallu unloaded a low kick which was countered by Clements' right hand. Clements landed a spinning backfist. Clements pushed the action with hard low kicks followed by knees. Ghojallu fired hard middle kicks. Clements returned fire with knees. Ghojallu connected with the teep.

Round 3: Clements delivered a powerful low kick. Clements grabbed Ghojallu's middle kick. A left-right punch combination by Ghojallu grazed Clements. A left-right combo by Clement's drove Ghojallu's head back forcefully. Ghojallu delivered swift low kick; Ghojallu's patented teep sent Clements backward.

BOUT 3 Women's Light Welterweight Division - 139 lbs: Sarah Baker (Minneapolis Singpraveh) defeated Julie "The" Jackle (Duke RUOFUS Gym) Punch KO, 0:46 of RD 1. Round 1: Baker penetrated Jackle's defense with strong jabs. Jackle fired back her own punches and a head kick. Baker overpowered Jackle with a left-right punch onslaught.

BOUT 4 Exhibition: Adam Collins (Duke RUOFUS Gym) and Jason Strout (Duke RUOFUS Gym). Round 1: Collins and Strout exchanged middle kicks. Both fighters showed a good deal of movement. Strout worked a jab and some low kicks. Collins and Strout clinched. Strout threw middle kick; Collins connected with a well-timed kick to Strout's base leg.

Round 2: Collins and Strout clinched. Collins landed a right hand to the body. Strout showboated a bit and then unleashed three middle kicks in a row. Both exchanged teeps and then low kicks.

Round 3: Collins began the round with some middle kicks. Both fighters began clinching and kneeing. Strout unloaded some left leg kicks, followed by a crisp right hand. Both fighters began clinching and kneeing toward the end of the round.

BOUT 5 Light Welterweight Division - 139 lbs "Playboy" Noi Siborboun (Duke RUOFUS Gym) defeated Alessio "Appleton Assassin" Ziel (Ziel's Appleton Kickboxing, Appleton, WI)TKO, 0:07 of RD 2. Round 1: Ziel came out hard; Siborboun remained calm and composed. Siborboun landed 3 hard low kicks in succession.

Both fighters clinched and began kneeing. Siborboun connected with an overhand right, which stunned Ziel. Ziel attempted a side kick. Siborboun delivered a solid knee that sent Ziel to the canvas; the blow appeared to hit Ziel's solar plexus, but Ziel complained of a low blow. Referee Kuhn Fred Fitzgerald restarted the bout. Siborboun drilled a vicious low kick followed by another right hand which knocked down Ziel. Ziel beat the count.

Round 2: In a demonstration of sheer athleticism, Siborboun got airborne from nearly mid-ring and blasted Ziel's body with a flying knee that was heard around the world. By the time Ziel hit the canvas referee Fitzgerald wisely stopped the bout.

BOUT 6: Light Middleweight, 156 lbs: This was not a fight; this was a WAR from opening bell to closing bell! Jim "Knock 'em Down" Downey Sit-Kongnapa (Duke RUOFUS Gym) defeated Dave Zuniga (Winnipeg Sik-Tai) Unanimous Decision (48-47, 48-47, 49-46).

This was a fast-paced bout that saw both combatants fighting his respective style, interspersed with a number of toe-to-toe, no-retreat-no-surrender exchanges. Trying to recount this battle through words alone does not serve justice to the brilliant Muaythai masterpiece these two exhibited. Zuniga is the 1999 Canadian National Tournament Champion and Downey is the 1999 United States National Tournament Champion--at the amateur level you cannot get a match-up that is more marquee than this!

Round 1: The southpaw Zuniga stuck Downey with blazing left crosses and a strong teep. Downey responded with a number of low, middle, and high kicks. Zuniga kept on the move, working his hands proficiently followed by a low kick attack.

Round 2: Zuniga and Downey exchanged high kicks. Downey threw a middle kick; Zuniga craftily blasted Downey's base leg with a solid kick. Downey worked a knee attack, followed by a grazing right hand. Zuniga continued moving, working jab-cross-kick combinations. Downey fired a crisp right hand and continued drilling Zuniga with middle kicks. Zuniga caught Downey with a well-placed cross. Downey connected with a blazing, scoring left cross.

Round 3: Zuniga continued his proficient movement while Downey stuck to his middle and high kick strategy. Downey peppered jab-cross combinations and worked the knee. Zuniga responded with his own arsenal of punches and kicks. Zuniga teeped Downey with authority. Downey got off a flying knee that sent the Canadian champion into the ropes. Both fighters clinched and began kneeing. Zuniga connected with a hook-low kick combination. Both fighters got in each other's face after the round--neither was willing to back down.

Round 4: Downey deftly grabbed Zuniga's teep. Downey fired another head kick; Zuniga drilled the base leg with a kick of his own. Downey caught Zuniga with a knee to the head. A punch attack ensued by both. Zuniga continued moving, working a proficient teep. Downey unloaded another high right kick. Zuniga was driven back by Downey's knees. Downey's uppercut hit Zuniga flush in the head at the end of the round.

Round 5: An impressive middle kick barrage by the U.S. Champion neutralized Zuniga's own offense. Downey landed another textbook uppercut. Zuniga cracked Downey with a scorching kick to the base leg. Both fighters went at it toe-to-toe in center ring! The crowd was on its feet with deafening cheers--neither fighter would back down! What an awesome bout between two awesome fighters!

BOUT 7 - Main Event Heavyweight Division - 210 lbs Duke RUOFUS (Duke RUOFUS Gym) defeated Dewey Cooper (Las Vegas One Kicks Gym) Unanimous Decision (50-44, 50-45, 50-44).

This match featured two of America's finest professional Muaythai fighters. Although Cooper came well-equipped and ready to rumble, RUOFUS' methodical style eventually pressed the K-1 veteran into a retreat- or-be -destroyed mode.

RUOFUS clearly dominated the bout, drilling Cooper with middle kicks and low kicks. Despite being outclassed and having taken a brutal beating to the right leg--which left the Las Vegas sensation limping to his corner in between rounds -- Cooper's interminable will power and smart corner work kept him in the fight. RUOFUS put on a Muaythai clinic and left the ring victorious; Cooper left the ring defeated, but he won the respect of the crowd for his toughness and great spirit.

Round 1: RUOFUS worked a hard right leg attack. Cooper went for a middle kick but RUOFUS blasted the base leg. RUOFUS teeped. Cooper fired a high kick that was evaded by RUOFUS. RUOFUS countered with a low kick. Cooper landed a solid left cross. RUOFUS teeped, followed by an onslaught of middle and high kicks. RUOFUS powered Cooper back with a big knee strike. RUOFUS landed a right hand. Cooper was hanging tough as the end of the round saw RUOFUS firing a low right leg kick followed by a crisp left leg middle kick.

Round 2: Middle kicks and low left kicks by RUOFUS served as a continuation from the last round; Cooper seemed to be getting frustrated as he was unable to mount a substantial offense. Both fighters clinched. Cooper landed a leg kick; RUOFUS countered with a solid middle kick. RUOFUS distracted Cooper with unpredictable head feint-low kick attacks. Cooper fired a middle kick that was evaded by RUOFUS. The confident RUOFUS was clearly the aggressor.

Round 3: Cooper tried clinching after RUOFUS threw his textbook middle kick. Cooper's scoring leg kick was followed by a scoring leg kick from RUOFUS. RUOFUS grabbed Cooper's teep and blasted the Las Vegas native with a leg kick. Cooper rushed in with punches and would then try to clinch to prevent getting kicked. Cooper was limping painfully at the close of the round.

Round 4: RUOFUS began the round by rolling over the waistband on his shorts, which signified that Cooper was not an easy customer and that it was time to "really get to work." RUOFUS continued to brutalize Cooper's right leg with low kicks, but Cooper just would not go down. Cooper returned a hook-cross combination. RUOFUS cornered Cooper and tapped him with some punches to the head, followed by authoritarian leg kicks. RUOFUS landed a great knee to Cooper's head, which prompted referee Fitzgerald to administer a standing eight count. Cooper continued like a true braveheart.

Round 5: Cooper resorted to rushing in with some punches and tried tying up RUOFUS in a clinch. RUOFUS worked some swift jabs. RUOFUS grabbed Cooper's leg and penetrated with a sound body punch. RUOFUS low kicked again and evaded Cooper's own leg attack. RUOFUS fired the middle kick as the round came to a close.

Duke RUOFUS & Kongnapa Defend IKF World Titles Successfully!
A RINGSIDE Boxing Sponsored Event

It was announced as WORLD WAR III and from the results, this war was a GREAT ONE!

Kickboxing Promoter and World Super Heavyweight Muaythai Rules Champion Duke RUOFUS (212 lbs, 32-4-1 with 24 KO's) proved to everyone that the true reason it took him the full 5 scheduled rounds to first win the title by decision a few months back was CLEARLY due to the fact he was nursing 2 injuries to his right hand and ankle.

RUOFUS quieted all the critics by starting hard and fast and then landed the "A Bomb" on Australia's WKA World Champion Grant "The Bomber" Barker (211 lbs, 41-11 with 32 KO's). In a combination which included a leg kick, 2 knees to Barker's head and finished with a high head kick, RUOFUS only took 39 seconds to Knockout the Australian in the opening round of the scheduled 5 round Muaythai bout this last Friday night, March 19th at the Eagles Club Stadium in Milwaukee Wisconsin, USA.

After RUOFUS first won the title on December 8th, 1998, there were some "so called" critics who had made comments about RUOFUS' skill when he went the entire 5 scheduled rounds (5 X 3) against Hirawa TeRangi of Auckland, New Zealand when other Super Heavyweights had stopped TeRangi in earlier rounds. However, after his performance against Barker, those critics can "Rest in Peace" as Duke proved once again that, "DUKE" RUOFUS is the MAN to beat in Leg Kicks and Muaythai fighting!

After his win, RUOFUS had a special announcement to make. That he was hanging up the Combination "Fighting-Promoting" gloves for good. RUOFUS let his hometown crowd in Milwaukee, Wisconsin USA know that he will no longer be doing the work of "Promoter" and "Fighter" on the same event. However, nothing says that RUOFUS is ready to hang up the fight gloves for good because as the saying goes, "Money Talks."

Now RUOFUS will look to have other promoters promote him on their events and there are many interesting offers. It would be nice to see Duke scheduled to fight in K-1 with more than 2 weeks notice like the only 2 times he was ever in the tournament. If K-1 comes in with a good offer and not a Last Minute Offer, RUOFUS may be ready to steal the show! Other offers that are currently on the table for RUOFUS will include some traveling to defend his World Title in England, Australia and other parts of USA.

RUOFUS, as we have said before is one of the most active IKF promoters "WORLDWIDE." With 3 events completed, he and his promotional TEAM currently have 11 "MORE" events booked with the IKF in 1999. That schedule could expand to as many as 6 "MORE" events added to the already 11.

The Duke RUOFUS Gym's Promotional Team, led by Scott Joffe, is moving strong and hard and are CLEARLY setting the pace for MUAYTHAI here in North America. They have done more for the growth of Pro, as well as, amateur Muaythai in North America than "ANY" other promoter "EVER" has because they have featured EVENLY MATCHED bouts from "WELL KNOWN" INTERNATIONAL Champions from all over the world. They are clearly, THE REAL DEAL!!!!

In the second IKF World Title bout of the night, Duke RUOFUS Gym's Kongnapa, "King of the Sky" (150 lbs, 4-time Ratchdamnern Thailand Stadium Champion with over 180 bouts) of Thailand successfully defend his IKF Pro Junior Middleweight Muaythai Rules World title with a 5 round unanimous decision against ISKA & WKA Champion, Marcus "Mad Dog" Mangan (147.5 lbs, 30-3-3 with 22 KO's ) of Australia, 48-46, 49-44 and 50-44.

Once again, Kongnapa was faced with a World Class opponent, as he was last month in Eval Denton of England. Proof once again that the Duke RUOFUS Gym's Promotional Team is not just bringing in people to be beat like we have seen in other promotions across the globe.

This was Kongnapa's second title defense in a row against a top ranked fighter. In the second round, it looked as if Kongnapa could put Mangan away but Mangan fought back strong and answered back with some great combinations of his own. Kongnapa used several leg sweeps to disrupt Mangan throughout the bout which seemed to be a major factor on Mangan's ability to counter or attack. The sweeps combined with Kongnapa's hand and feet combinations seemed to throw off Mangan's timing just as he would seem to get any rhythm going.

This was a great fight and was the most exciting fight of the night as Mangan proved to the American crowd, the Aussie's came to FIGHT! This will not be Mangan's only shot at an IKF World Title. We plan to see a lot more of him in both the Muaythai and International Rules divisions later this year. Mangan, as well as Grant Barker would be much stronger fighters at a lower weight class. We'll see what the future brings them both. Watch out World... Don't count these Aussie's out!!!

All Great fighters will suffer some loses here and there. But what makes them real champions, are the ones who comeback and win another day! And we are sure to see this in the future!

Another VERY EXCITING bout featured Dan Rawlings of Euclid Ohio, USA against Khan Phetvixay of Milwaukee, Wisconsin USA. Rawlings came in nearly 6 lbs under weight, but accepted the bout anyway with approval of the IKF to allow him to if desired. Phetvixay rocked Rawlings with a leg kick in the second round that forced referee Al Wichgers to give him a standing 8 count, but from that moment on, this bout was ALL RAWLINGS!

Rawlings came back to DOMINATE this bout with some of the most exciting hand, knee and kick combinations we have ever seen. After taking several blows, Phetvixay should have been given a standing 8 in round 3, but referee Al Wichgers choose not to.

However, in round 4, Rawlings attack was even better, this time forced Phetvixay to a standing 8 count after a great flurry that ended with a STRONG right hand to Phetvixay's head. Rawlings seemed to land his jab and right hand at will as he dominated the final round, but just couldn't put Phetvixay away who proved to be a very strong fighter. Rawlings won the bout by unanimous decision, 48-45, 47-44 and 49-44.

In the other bouts, Derek Yuen of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA defeated Shane Meads of Sydney, Australia by unanimous decision, 29-27, 30-26 and 29-28. This was Meads first amateur bout and did very well against Yuen. We hope to see a lot more of Meads in the future and on some upcoming IKF Australia events.

In a rematch of two tough Heavyweights, Jim Heberer of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA defeated Giuseppe DeNatale of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada by unanimous decision, 50-45 on all 3 judges cards. Heberer had won the first meeting between the two several months ago in a much closer match. However, on this occasion, Heberer seemed to dominate the inside fight with a much improved knee attack.

Event officials included: Judges: B.J. Lavota, Mike Hess, Anthony Randazzo,and Sal D'Amato, Referee: Al Wichgers, Timekeeper: Tom Fischer, Ring Announcer Kieron Davis. The Medical staff from Bell Ambulance: David Myers and Rob Moore.

OK... We may be rocking the boat a little here, but keep in mind that our intentions here are for the longevity and safety of kickboxers worldwide. This announcement is yet another First by the IKF towards a better future for the World of Kickboxing.

After discussing the issue in question with IKF World Team Leaders and Leg Kick and Muaythai experts Duke RUOFUS of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA and Mike Miles of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, the IKF is announcing a change of the round lengths on ALL IKF Sanctioned International Rules (Leg Kick) World Title Bouts. These bouts will now be 10 rounds instead of 12.

WHY? Well no, it's not a major change, but it "WILL" make a difference. In fact, there was even discussion on cutting the leg kick titles to 5, 3 minute rounds, but Mr. Miles brought up a very important point about how such a drastic change would strongly effect a fighters strategy in a title bout.

The main concern as we previously mentioned here is the fighters safety and longevity. For example, if one takes a moment to think about it, the PUNISHMENT from ANY bout with leg kicks "IS" the Leg Kicks. Leg kick fighters take "A LOT" more overall punishment on their entire body than a full contact fighter.

Not saying one style of fighter is better or worse, tougher etc., just different. Fighters are able to fight more in Thailand for example because their bouts do not exceed 5 rounds in their Muaythai Rules bouts. Sure, they include Knees and Elbows and are 3 minutes long, but the main punishment is from the leg kicks.

Don't get us wrong, an Elbow or Knee to the face causes more damage than a foot or punch, but they also happen a lot less than the leg kicks. However, some time ago, some one thought it was a good idea to have 12 round leg kick bouts instead of the once 9 rounds.

Well, the IKF wants to go back in time a bit. Here are the new Title Bout requirements for the IKF International Rules (Leg Kick) bouts. The amateur title bout round lengths will not change, only the Pro Title bouts.

Pro World Title Bouts: 10, 2 minute rounds, 1 Minute Rests.
Pro Intercontinental and Continental Title Bouts: 8, 2 minute rounds with 1 minute rests.
Pro National Title Bouts: 7, 2 minute rounds with 1 minute rests.
Pro Regional and State Title Bouts: 6, 2 minute rounds with 1 minute rests.

We welcome ANY comments in regards to this change and in fact we encourage them. Here's to the Future of Kickboxing... Cheers!

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA: Promoter Duke RUOFUS packed the Eagles Club Grand Ballroom in Milwaukee, Wisconsin with an attendance of over 3,000. He then pleased the sellout crowd by winning the IKF Muaythai Super Heavyweight World Title over Hirawa TeRangi of Auckland, New Zealand.

It was a great end to a very successful year for Team RUOFUS. RUOFUS hosted 6 IKF sanctioned events in 1998 and has more than that planned for 1999. Team RUOFUS and the Duke RUOFUS Gym have made it obvious that Milwaukee is the Heart of Muaythai in the USA.

RUOFUS, modest as usual, refused to take center stage as the main event vowing to give his own up and coming fighters the headline position. RUOFUS was fight number 5 on a night of 8 bouts. However, it was clear that the majority of the crowd was there for "The Duke!"

RUOFUS (219, 31-4-1 with 22 KO's) defeated TeRangi (219, 27-6 with 12 KO's) by unanimous decision 50-43 on all 3 judges cards. He knocked TeRangi down with a head kick in round 1 and forced another standing 8 on TeRangi in round 4.

RUOFUS had commented before the bout that a past injury to his right hand forced him to ease up on throwing the big punch. It showed clearly that RUOFUS had no desire to knock TeRangi out, only get in some good skill work. TeRangi used the ropes cleverly to lean away from RUOFUS' attack nearly every time.

Frustrated by TeRangi's defense, RUOFUS went over the ropes after him and both almost fell to the judges table several times. TeRangi had flew to Australia to train and spar with Robert Wilesmith's group several weeks before the fight since he had no sparring partners in New Zealand. WKA Cruiserweight World Champion Grant Barker of Australia came as TeRangi's cornerman since Wilesmith had prior commitments.

Although elusive, TeRangi never seemed to press RUOFUS who wanted to fight more of a counter fight, but was never given the opportunity. With strong kicks and a great left jab that woke TeRangi up several times, RUOFUS seemed to be doing all the attacking. TeRangi however kept the crowd alive as he smiled after many of RUOFUS' blows.

When the fight was over, both fighters appeared they could go 5 more rounds. However at the end of round 5, RUOFUS had pulled a hamstring that he felt later in the night. It was a good bout for RUOFUS who hasn't fought for some time.

Duke is now ready to take on any and all challengers in a defense. That is, if anyone is willing to pay him what he's worth, which seems to be the problem in kickboxing today. Very few champions get paid their worth. RUOFUS was over looked in K-1 USA this last year. Who knows, maybe he will get another K-1 shot soon.

Looking back on his career, he KO ed Stan "The Man" Longinidis at the Foxwood Casino in Ledyards, CN USA, in the first round and many thought he clearly defeated Curtis Schuster some time ago. However the judges declared it a questionable draw. Schuster KO ed Jean Claude Leuyer in this year's K-1 USA, but couldn't continue against Rick RUOFUS due to a knee injury giving Rick the win.

Rick who currently holds the IKF International Rules Heavyweight World Title went on to represent USA in the K-1 Japan. Unfortunately, he lost to Franscisco Filho of Brazil by leg kick KO, 15 seconds into the second round in the first round of the tournament. But lets just set the record straight. Whether talking about Duke or Rick, the RUOFUS name means WINNERS and CHAMPIONS!!!

The Main Event was clearly the fight of the night featuring the long awaited rematch between the IKF Intercontinental Junior Welterweight Champion Richard Kostuck with 19 wins, 4 loses with 9 KO's of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA against 40 year old legend, Sakasem Kanthawong with 43 wins, 10 loses, 1 draw and 33 KO's of Indianapolis, Indiana, USA via Thailand.

Kostuck won the title with a close victory over Sakasem back on May 30, 1998, winning by unanimous decision, 50-46, 50-46 & 48-47. However in their last meeting and clearly not on this one, Sakasem never looked 40 years old during either bout.

Fighting like a fresh 20 year old, he fought toe to toe with the younger Kostuck, 27. Both fighters went back and forth on exchanges of hands, kicks and knees. Every time Sakasem seemed to get Kostuck in trouble, Kostuck hung on tough and fought back strong.

On all 3 judges cards, Kostuck won rounds 1, 3 & 5, 10-9 while they split round 2 in which 2 judges saw it for Kostuck, 1 for Sakasem. In round 4, all 3 judges scored it to Sakasem 10-9. In our opinion, it could have easily been a draw, but if a winner had to be picked, Kostuck would get the nod as he stayed busier during 4 of the 5 rounds.

When Sakasem fired strong, they were flurries that Kostuck answered back quickly to each time. As the judges saw it, round 4 was Sakasem's as Kostuck got himself into trouble early, getting dazed by one of Sakasem strong and fast hand combinations. Kostuck spent the entire 4th round eluding Sakasem and trying to regain composure until the bell ended the round.

From the start of round 5, both came out firing but Kostuck had rested well on the break and always seemed to finish each of the heated exchanges between the two. Kostuck retained his title with a unanimous victory, 49-46, 48-47 and 49-46. However, let it be known that at 40 years old, Sakasem is STILL one of the BEST Muaythai fighters in the world today. Could we see these two face off for a third match?

Sakasem is not only a champion fighter in the ring, but a respected individual out of the ring as well. Liked by MANY who have had the opportunity to meet him in person. Kostuck too is a great roll model for Muaythai and the sport of Kickboxing. Which makes everyone now believe more and more and say about this Kostuck guy, (who by the way is a full time grade school teacher).. That Hey...THIS KOSTUCK GUY IS FOR REAL!... As if there was any doubt ..... Great fight Rich!

The undercard featured some mismatches, but not to the fault of the matchmaker. Seems several "BOXERS" in Milwaukee challenged several of RUOFUS' Thai fighters claiming they could take them out with their boxing skills. Well boxers, let what happened in Milwaukee, Wisconsin be a lesson to you...

RUOFUS' Brad Fowler(4-0 with 4 KO's) took apart Harold Johnson ( 8-10 with 6 KO's) by first round KO. Than RUOFUS' Paul Svehlek (13-1 with 10 KO's) introduced several knee strikes to John Davis (58-5 in boxing) before knocking him out with a knee to the chest, followed by a quick knee to the face at 42 seconds into round 1.

Then as if that wasn't enough, seasoned boxer Donnie Pendleton, with over 200 boxing matches to his credit, lasted a whole 17 seconds into round 1 as IKF Pro World Junior Middleweight Muaythai Champion Kongnapa (over 180 Thai fights) landed 1 leg kick..."1" and that was it...Heck, his pre fight Muaythai Ram Muay was longer than the fight... Again... let this be a lesson to you boxers... Those legs and knees can hurt...

Keeping pace with USA Amateur boxing was an IKF Junior Division bout between 2, 8 year olds. Al Warren of Indianapolis, Indiana, USA out pointed Sam West of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA, 29-28, 29-28 and 30-27 for his first win.The IKF Junior Division bouts are 3, 1 minute rounds and fighters wear full protection. Headgear, shin pads along with of course, gloves, groin cups and mouth pieces.

Heavyweight Muaythai fighter Mark Vinesbright of Indianapolis Indiana, USA entered the ring chiseled like a video game warrior fighter showing more muscle rips and curves than The Hulk. However, his 6-0 record was erased by Jason Johnson of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA as he lasted Vinesbright's strong round 1 attack.

Vinesbright won round 1 on all 3 judges cards 10-9. However in round 2, Johnson pressed the fight scoring with several "STRONG" knees to Vinesbright's face and chest. His attack forced a standing 8 count to Vinesbright who seemed winded from the attack of Johnson. Johnson moved ahead on the score cards from the 8 count as he won round 2.

Vinesbright lost his wind early in round 3 and eventually, referee Al Wichgers made the right decision and stopped the bout at 1:11 of round 3. Johnson moved to 2-0 while Vinesbright dropped to 6-1.

Rounding out the bouts of the night, RUOFUS' Vin Bounnanong (8-2) lost a unanimous decision to Tom Carpenter (6-3) of Minneapolis Minnesota, 29-28, 30-27 and 29-28.

After the event, RUOFUS, as always, hosted an all expenses paid after hours party where we, again as always, get to know everyone on a more personable note.

It was here that we got to know Grant Barker and Hirawa TeRangi a little better. We found out once again that there are NO STRANGERS to the IKF. Only friends we have never met. These two are "CLASS ACTS" and we are sure to continue working with them both as things come up for them with the IKF.

It also seems that TeRangi will be hosting some IKF Kickboxing events next year in New Zealand, as well as, Robert Wilesmith's 1999 IKF events in Australia. We look forward to the visit and once again, seeing our new IKF World Team Members from the great land down under...

For more info on upcoming Duke RUOFUS Gym Kickboxing events, call (414) 319-1151.