Last weekend, four Capital Jiu-Jitsu fighters participated in Muay Thai Kickboxing matches as part of the DC Metro Showdown IV. CJJ is quickly developing a reputation as one of Northern Virginia's top schools for kickboxing, producing fighters that are technical, well-rounded and highly conditioned. See the below for the full synopsis of this weekend's event.
Capital Jiu Jitsu brought five competitors to the show last night, but only four fought. Unfortunately Chad's opponent had to back out at the last minute due to an injury.
Our night started out GREAT, with Loudoun's Jimmy Mackey winning on points. He was by far the dominant fighter, BUT we learned a valuable lesson for fighting Muay Thai rules - because one judge scored the bout evenly. We found out that though Jimmy dominated the fight both physically, and by punishing his opponent, the other opponent still racked up some points because he connected with teeps, knees and body kicks (a teep is a push or thrust with the underside of the foot). The lesson learned is that just being dominant and punishing can sometimes not be enough. Though in this case he was both those and still racked up more points in the eyes of two of the judges .
Next was Mike Snyder. Holy smokes, did he dominate! TKO in the third round! And he pulled off some amazing Muay Thai - including a bunch of superman punches that were pure awesome!
Then George Annab. George fought a very traditional Muay Thai opponent who really followed through on the beginning ring ritual. Fun to watch. George fought a tough fight, but lost on points in the end.
Finally, Ray Soto fought. Ray came out with blazing speed! I kept hearing about how fast Ray could be, but didn't expect to see such speed in action. His opponent was also super tough, and had one very cool leg sweep on Ray. They continued to go at it, and Ray ended up catching a foot to that button that means lights out. Ray was still a warrior and though his body was screaming no, his mind wasn't going to quit, and he still got up and tried to come back from the blow. The ref called it, however (which was a good call.)
In summary I want to say several things:
First, win, lose, or in Chad's case, not compete, all five of these guys have earned the respect of CJJ's staff and members. They all trained to win, making every sacrifice to do so, and because of that, they have been an inspiration to me personally, and to many that I talk to! I am very proud and impressed!
Second, Sean Croushorn has been a guiding force for the Muay Thai fighters, spending a LOT of additional time and personal resources helping these guys get ready for their event! THANK YOU SEAN!!!
Third, Tom Meehan and Iman Achhal were tremendous coaches for these guys regarding CrossFit and Zone Dieting.
Awesome job fighters and coaches!!!
If you're interesting in learning Muay Thai Kickboxing for competition, self-defense or just want to get in shape, visit CJJ in Alexandria/Arlington or Loudoun County Dulles for a trial class. Our Mixed Martial Arts and CrossFit students come from Reston, South Riding, Chantilly, Springfield, Herndon, Arcola, Stoneridge, Brambleton, Annandale VA, Great Falls, Falls Church, Sterling, Manassas, Centreville, Fairfax, Burke and Woodbrige to train at NOVA's top school of MMA and Elite Fitness. If you're looking for fun training and a workout that surpasses any Health Club or Gym, visit the Washington DC Metro area's top Academy of MMA and Fitness today for a free trial class.
