Only the Strong April 2009

Hi and welcome to Only the Strong, a highly prestigious kickboxing tournament hosted by Dave and Becky Ryan of Watford Freestyle.

Billed as ‘War of the Warriors’ it truly was that, as representing London Warriors Freestyle Martial Arts Academy for this event were, Liz Ferioli, Adam Naismith and Rodney James.

First into the ring for The Warriors was, Liz Ferioli her opponent was the formidable and PKA World Champion 2008 representing London Predators, Helena Martin. The bout was billed for 3 x 1 1/2 minutes rounds.

Liz used the first round to get the measure of her opponent; both fighters showed impressive movement and threw an array of hand and feet combinations. As the bout progressed, Liz got Stronger and grew in confidence.

Both fighters were strong and displayed an awesome and highly entertaining display of kickboxing, at the end of the third and final round, Liz was judged and deservedly so by unanimous decision to be the winner.

Bout number eleven of the evening was contested by Rodney James versus Christian Thompson. Both combatants wowed the audience with impressive attacks and counters. Rodney was judged to be ahead on points after the first round. The start of the second was as equally entertaining as the first round, halfway through the 3rd round Christian threw a right hook which caught Rodney who after taking an eight count, was judged not fit enough to continue and the bout was awarded to Christian.

The final contest of the night was Adam Naismith take on, Simon Greenbaun of Infinity, Yeovil. When the bell signalled the start of round one, Adam advanced quickly towards his opponent knocking him off balance with a well placed side kick. Adam went on to dominate Simon with a combination of pin point accurate kicks and punches, eventually the referee was forced to step in and stop the bout which saw Adam walk away with the winners trophy.

All in all it was yet another great night for the London Warriors Freestyle Martial Arts Academy. The fighters approached their opponents with a great deal of professionalism and respect. They did what was expected; bring on the next fight night.

Special thanks to Mr Dean ‘Deonomite’ Hanley who was my second corner man. He is truly a team player
always offering words of encouragement whilst keeping the fighters focused and calm, Thanks Dean.

I would also like to thank all who made the journey to support the team; you were extremely
vocal shouting words of encouragement egg the guys on.

Big thanks to all

Report by Tony Francis
Chief instructor and Fight Team Coach