The struggle for the legalization of MMA in New York is ongoing in 2011. In spite of lobbying efforts from Zuffa Entertainment and grass roots movements like the Coalition to Legalize MMA in New York, state political figures still have not come to an agreement on the issue, thus giving many fighters from The Big Apple the hard task of breaking into the mainstream of this ever-growing sport. One fighter that has felt the affect of the standing ban is 31 year old Wally “The Weapon” MacDonald. With over 19 years of martial arts experience and a record of 5-1, Wally is among the many talents out of New York that have been denied the opportunity to fight at home. Below is a transcript of an inte...

Strikeforce Challenger competitor Brian Melancon makes his return to the cage on September 23 against undefeated Felipe Portela in an exciting welterweight battle at Strikeforce Challengers 19 in Las Vegas. With a professional record of 5-2, the Texas based fighter brings a fast paced style to all his fights. Becoming a part of the Strikeforce organization in 2011 and excited about his new venture, Melancon hopes to make the best of his experience and move up the ranks in the company.

Alan Jouban is a rare breed of talent coming out of the California mixed martial arts scene. Training out of Legends MMA in Los Angeles, the up-and-coming welterweight is fresh off of an impressive knockout over Andrew Goldthwaite. Born and raised in Lafayette, Louisiana, Jouban spent his childhood with his grandfather Allen Jeasnsoone learning the importance of hard work. The early lesson has proved to be one of his greatest assets that he carries with him in life and into the cage each and every day. "I learned how to work hard at an early age with my grandpa. Taking care of his cattle and crops, hunting, fishing, and riding horses," Alan told US Combat Sports.

Alberto Crane has never been afraid to take on new challenges in his career. It is this passion and dedication that has contributed to his extraordinary success over the years in his grappling and MMA career. Using the tools he has acquired along his journey, Crane has transformed from student to teacher while continuing to push through his own boundaries and challenge himself in martial arts. US Combat Sports had a chance to talk with the Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt as he discussed how he continues to keep motivated while helping others to achieve success in their careers.

Tiger Muay Thai MMA has gained a strong reputation for being Thailand’s top training camp . Known for its world class instruction and beautiful setting along the island coast of Phuket, the camp gives its participants a great training and enriching experience like no other. From beginning practitioners looking to learn Muay Thai for fun, fitness, or self defense purposes to professional fighters wanting sharpen their fighting skills in hopes in reaching a new pinnacle in their careers, the camp has attracted fighters from around the world. Amongst the group of pro fighters that have made the trip to the Tiger Muay Thai MMA gym is JJ Ambrose. With a record of 15-3, JJ has had the opportun...