Modern-day gladiators
Valley fighters showcase hottest new sportIt was a pure bloodbath on January 27th as Arizona’s best Mixed Martial Arts fighters brought their skills to the ring during Rage in the Cage at Fort McDowell Casino.
It was a cold evening but that did not stop the fighters from bashing skulls into the night, and it certaintly didn’t stop the 3,000 beer-drinking fans from flocking in to view the carnage.
The first few fights started off slow, and the crowd was agitated by what was little more than a hugging match.
After the first intermission, though, young Lars Havens stepped into the cage and 22 seconds later the crowd was on their feet and Lyle Tenfingers was on his back. From the opening bell Havens dropped a barrage of thunderous blows and Tenfingers was out before the fight began.
The fight of the night though was between Joe “The Show” Cronin and Mike Peterson. The three round bloodfest was filled with plenty of gruesome blows to go around, but in the end it was Joe “The Show” who stole the night.
The main event of the evening matched UFC veteran Gilbert Aldana against Rich Beecroft.
Like Havens, Aldana won in less than half a minute winning by a submission move know as a kimura, in 26 seconds.
Rage in the Cage, founded by Roland Sarria continues to soar in popularity.
The next Rage in the Cage will be Feb. 24 at the Celebrity Theatre.
Volume
44, Issue 8. Today is
Blood and glory
Scott Seligman
Mesa Legend
Mike Peterson (above left) delivers a blow to the face of his opponent Joe “The Show” Cronin. Cronin won the fight by unanimous decision after three rounds.
Scott Seligman Mesa Legend
In another bout, Jeff Horlacher (right) attempts to take down his opponent Brandon Hall. Horlacher won the fight in the second round by submission.
Scott Seligman Mesa Legend
Cronin, (left) severely bloodied, takes a breath in between exchanges with his opponent Peterson.