Team Cellar fighters brought the action at Ignite Fights 111 on Saturday, March 21st! We went 2-3 on the evening, with some tough (but great) fights and one championship belt brought home.

Johnny Lee made his adult debut, rematching against a former opponent. These two fighters had faced each other twice already as teens, and the excitement to be fighting their first adult matchup was tangible in the room! Johnny had a fun fight full of smiles and action. Both young men put the pressure on, with his opponent taking a slight edge for the unanimous decision. Johnny never quit and never stopped smiling, and we’re proud of him!

Katie Locken had a solid showing full of excellent technique. She broke her foot early in the second round and continued fighting hard scoring multiple low kicks, showing great ring control and setting the pace in the clinch. Unfortunately, she lost a decision; the old saying “never leave it in the hands of the judges” couldn’t have been more true. Katie is an inspiration and role model in the gym, for moms and all female fighters!

Grady Pesch fought with good range awareness and vision, but unfortunately ended up a bit short and lost a decision. You’re either learning lessons or winning. We will learn and move to the next one and get better. Great job Grady!

Marty Voves fought an incredible 5 rounds for the Ignite 170lb title! Marty came out fast with a statement of power and ring ownership. He locked in and showed great control in the clinch and the kickboxing exchanges, landing devastating low kicks and nasty knees in the clinch. Marty dropped his opponent an incredible 6 times before securing the victory with a late 5th round TKO finish. In addition to the title, Marty also won Fight of the Night AND Fighter of the Night! Hats off to his opponent for gutting through so many 8-counts. One of the most impressive performances we’ve seen in awhile.

Lucy Berman made her MMA debut showed great takedowns and ground control. She had relentless pressure and position on the ground to secure a split decision victory! Great work Lucy!

There’s nothing like The Cellar community. Although you may step into the cage alone, you’re never really alone. Every round you carry your team with you–the ones who believe in you, no matter what.

This is what makes us different. This is what makes us strong.