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07/7/ 2010 -US Grappling Junior Championships

LINXX Academy recently went back to Ashland, VA, for the U.S. Grappling Junior Championships. For the second time in only a matter of weeks, LINXX Juniors rolled out with multiple awards. The flourishing juniors traveled to Patrick Henry High School on July 10, 2010, supported and mentored by coaches Nestor Bayot, James Gamble, and junior coach Jacob Turpin, with special appreciation for LINXX mom Cristina Corbe.  

Deandre Corbe, Gavin Corbe, Kai Lockhart, and Jared Esteban brought home four first-place trophies, two second-place medals, and a third-place medal. The high-spirited grapplers were ensured at least two bouts each in the double-elimination style tournament. U.S. Grappling events now use the Madison Bracketing system, which means that there are no longer present weight classes for juveniles. The system was administered to prevent children and teens from cutting weight since they won’t know the weight classes in advance.

Deandre proved his talents in a bout that set him up with an opponent almost 20 pounds heavier than the 100-pound fighter. Each Junior LINXXer showed an impressive amount of heart and enthusiasm that day and earned the admiration of the entire Junior LINXX family.

Results for the tournament can be viewed at US Grapplings website: http://tinyurl.com/3xtwk95
and media of the event can be located via Facebook: http://tinyurl.com/23kvfha

08/21/2010 - Linxx Academy Jiu-Jitsu Graduation/Seminar on August 21st at Linxx Red Mill

Professor Pedro Sauer will be conducting a Linxx Academy Graduation/Seminar on August 21st at Linxx Red Mill. We will be having significant belt promotions the day of the seminar. Professor Sauer will also be conducting an hour long kids seminar as well.

06/18/2010 - Black Belt Graduation Ceremony

The LINXX Academy of Martial Arts recently hosted the Semi-Annual Black Belt Graduation Ceremony in honor of five junior black belts, three first-degree black belts, and three adult Muay Thai black belts. On Friday June 18, 2010, both LINXX Academy locations closed their doors in honor of the event.

The Black Belt Preparation Course is an intensive four-month phase of final training, screening, and testing that consists of a variety of physical fitness and training requirements. Students must attend four classes a week, which includes a minimum of one black belt candidate class. The physical fitness requirements are challenging; if a student is unable to meet one of the requirements, they are given one opportunity to re-test. If a student fails the re-test, regardless of how far they are in their present cycle, they are rolled back to the next cycle to start from the beginning. There are only three scheduled training cycles each year. Students who complete the comprehensive program are honored at a graduation ceremony, where they showcase their acquired martial arts skills and receive their black belts.

The 2010 black belt recipients were Brendan Alvarez, Barrett Ratclaff, Grant Minor, Paul Sanchez, Jeremy Loughheed, Jaxon Dick, Zachary Parker, Michael Orwig, Charles McCallister, Brandon Pearce, and Jared Fanning.

The Master of Ceremonies for this year’s event was Mr. Frank Cucci, Sr., founder of LINXX Academy. Mr. Cucci began by recognizing the hard work and dedication required of both students and parents to reach such an esteemed rank. He commented that martial arts was a powerful influence in the lives of students and he thanked the families for giving LINXX Academy the privilege of training their children.

“Beyond the obvious benefits of self-defense, physical fitness, and self-confidence, the martial arts lifestyle helps to develop a person’s moral values and ethics,” stated Mr. Cucci.

The first exhibition was Krabi-kabrong, the weapon-based martial art from Thailand that has been connected to the beginnings of the art of Muay Thai. Armed with swords, LINXX instructors Daniel Brooks and Evan Taylor confronted each other on stage with a clash of metal. Sparks flew and a realistic battle took place on stage, setting the tone for the rest of the demonstrations. Instructors then took the stage to showcase the practical art of Muay Thai. After familiarizing the audience about how training for each discipline may be utilized, candidates took the floor to demonstrate combinations they learned during their cycle.

Mike Paulson, General Manager of Linxx’s Academy’s Redmill location, and Scott Turner, LINXX instructor, engaged the audience in one of the most impressive displays of the day. After demonstrating a few basic grappling techniques, Paulson and Turner proceeded to show the tremendous athleticism required for great ground work. Paulson is currently a purple belt and Turner holds a black belt in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. The execution of each hold and maneuver was so clean, it awed the entire assembly. The seemingly effortless roll was accentuated by the experience level of both grapplers, providing a memorable example of the skillful discipline.

Another highlight of the evening was the skit performed by LINXX staff. Along with Dan Brooks, Evan Taylor, and Jacob Turpin; Kyle Windley produced a hilarious show about how a little bit of bad training can be a dangerous thing. Brooks’ raucous entry on stage as “Bruce Leeroy” established the troupe’s presence and purpose. “Leeroy” introduced himself to a band of ardent new students as a 58th degree black belt in karate from the school of Cobra Kai. Laughter resonated throughout the auditorium as his demonstration about how to defend against nunchucks quickly proved to be a liability to the students and Mr. Leeroy himself.

The event culminated with the presentation of the black belts to each candidate. As everyone applauded, the students walked proudly across the stage to accept their new belts and awards. After the presentation, the distinguished disciples of the martial arts took center stage for one final bow to the audience as the curtains closed.

A reception was held following the ceremony. Handshakes, hugs, and accolades filled the room. Portraits were taken, stories were told as people re-lived the past years, and future goals were discussed. Mr. Cucci commented, “This is the most rewarding part of my role here at LINXX. Congratulations to the 2010 black belt graduates; the LINXX family is honored to be a part of your outstanding achievements!”

06/12/2010 - LINXX Students Compete in National Tournaments

LINXX Academy students recently competed in nationally recognized tournaments. Hampton’s Boo Williams Sportsplex was the site of two action-packed weekends as the North American Grappling Association’s (NAGA) nationally RANKED Virginia Beach Grappling Championship rolled into Virginia Beach and the World Kickboxing Association (WKA) USA hosted the North American Combat Sports Championship in Hampton, Virginia. LINXX’s competition proudly graced the rosters alongside other well-known academies in the area.

On June 12, 2010, NAGA held its annual Virginia Beach Grappling Championship. 600 competitors from around the state gathered to rank and roll with some of the area’s best grapplers. Eleven Junior LINXXers registered for the tournament and amassed 22 placements. This achievement placed the young LINXX Jiu Jitsu team first in their division. The adults also performed strongly, taking 3rd in the no-Gi division and 5th in Gi. Patrick Trinidad, 2nd-year student at LINXX Academy, placed first in intermediate no-Gi and blue belt Gi at 139.9 and below. Trinidad is finishing up high school at Bayside in Virginia Beach and plans to “kick it up in training” in Jiu-jitsu and Muay Thai.

“These results are all pretty respectable considering the number of schools entered in the competition,” exclaimed Coach James Gamble. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instructor Nestor Bayot of Linxx Academy was just as proud as any other coach there.

“The guys fought hard, they did awesome,” said Nestor. “There’s always some tough losses, but there’s a lot of great competitors. Win or lose, I’m very happy with the way they fought,” he added.

“The guys fought hard, they did awesome,” said Nestor. “There’s always some tough losses, but there’s a lot of great competitors. Win or lose, I’m very happy with the way they fought,” he added. On June 18, 2010, WKA returned to Hampton to host the North America Combat Sports Championship. Coaches Mackens Semerzier (current WEC competitor) and Ian Alexander (WKA National Champion) led a group of four upcoming fighters into the Boo Williams Sportsplex. Fighters Corey Anderson, Abdallah Daher, and Radek Pilar showcased their training in the ring for the first time, while another accomplished competitor continued to valiantly brush off some ring rust.

Kristopher Gonzalez presently holds a 6-0 Amateur MMA record and was a solid competitor at both tournaments. Apart from his military obligations, Gonzalez simultaneously has held the World Kickboxing Association’s Amateur MMA Lightweight title, the Global Combat Alliance Amateur Lightweight title, and the Total Cage Combat Lightweight title. He won first place for Advanced no-Gi at 150 to 159.9 lbs at the NAGA tournament and won his first bout at the WKA competition. Despite a pre-existing injury sustained while training, Gonzalez managed to tough it out through the day before humbly bowing out of his last match.

When asked what pushed him to get involved in two consecutive tournaments with an injury, Krystopher said, “I want to be a versatile guy. I’m taking it slow, but staying strong. That’s why I single everything out.”

According to Bayot, “Training in both styles is a given. You have to do both. If you want to do MMA, then you have to train in Jiu-Jitsu as well as Thai boxing. There is no separating one or the other.” LINXX competition has repeatedly been recognized by the intrepid contenders as a direct result of the Academy’s resilient programs. Over the last six weeks, Team LINXX has won a number of honorable victories and bouts. Coaches, staff, and students are all looking forward to a bright season. It’s only just begun!

07/26/2010- 08/16/2010- LINXX Academy’s 2010 Summer Training Camp

School is almost out and LINXX Academy is eagerly preparing for the 2010 Summer Training Camp. The camp is open to kids 7-13 years old and will continue to maintain an emphasis on physical training and skill development. Camp starts at 9:00 a.m. and runs until 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Kids will have the opportunity to condition with the full cadre of LINXX instructors in fun and engaging activities that promote self-confidence, teamwork, respect, and discipline.

The 2010 Summer Training Camp consists of morning runs, training sessions at Mount Trashmore, and rousing field trips to First Landing State Park and Rock Gym. Each student will be provided daily transportation from the Kempsville location to each destination, lunch (catered by Tropical Smoothie Café), and a camp T-shirt. Apart from the exciting itinerary, LINXX students will also be credited 16 hours of training. This is equal to approximately two months of regular classes, and will allow LINXX families to better accommodate other summer plans while keeping students eligible to test and progress on schedule.

The cost for the 2010 Summer Training Camp will be $350 for non-members, $299 for LINXX students, and $250 for LINXX students in the Black Belt Club. Additional family members can be registered at 25% off the initial camp fee. Running shoes, athletic wear, and an extra set of attire will be required for all participants. Each camp will be limited to 20 students and will be filled on a first come, first serve basis.

05/15/2010 - Junior LINXX Sparring Tournament

On Saturday, May 15, 2010, LINXX Academy of Martial Arts at Redmill held its Junior Spring Intramural Sparring Tournament. Enthusiastic fighters and excited guests geared up as LINXX staff set the mat for the annual event. Over 50 students registered for the competition, ranging in ages from 6–14 years. LINXX was proud to welcome Tyler Baer of Renaissance Academy in Lynchburg, as well as Christopher Brideson of Trident Academy of Martial Arts to the roster of impressive junior competitors.

LINXX founder and head instructor Frank Cucci, Sr., welcomed guests and outlined the day’s agenda. Students were placed in their respective brackets based on current rank and weight classes. This year’s tournament included full-contact sparring beginning at the Intermediate level. Typically, full contact is reserved for advanced-level bouts, as well as the final rounds of each weight class. Full-contact sparring allows strikes to the head, body, and legs by using kicks and hand strikes. Simultaneous bouts were held in two separate rings, attended by three judges and a referee on the mat. This was a single-elimination tournament, so the loser of each match was ineligible to compete for first place in each bracket; however, several defeated competitors participated in subsequent matches to determine third place.

A noteworthy challenge between Deandre Corbe and Malik Sheppard capped off the memorable morning. First-place contender Jacob Urps succumbed to illness after securing second place, but Corbe and Sheppard, the other two advanced heavyweight pacesetters, were far from finished. They agreed to perform in an exhibition challenge in light of the defaulted match, which gave the audience an aweinspiring showcase of form and technique.

Mr. Cucci commented, “The discipline of all parties involved deserves recognition from everyone here at LINXX. For some students, it was the first fight of their young lives and each one met the mat with true honor. My staff and I would like to extend the highest commendations to the Junior LINXX fighters. We look forward to helping them continue to grow in strength and character.

05/05/2010 - The North American Grappling Association

On May 5, 2010, The North American Grappling Association (NAGA) rolled into Charlotte, North Carolina for the North Carolina Grappling Championship. An electric atmosphere filled the Grady Cole Center as hundreds of anxious grapplers and their support groups arrived

for the nationally ranked tournament. The event, which was open to all grappling styles and experience levels, attracted about 400 grapplers overall. In the LINXX corner, coaches Nestor Bayot and James Gamble, along with LINXX father, Ron Lynch, gathered the team and gave the challengers a pep talk about strategies and game plans. An up-and-coming group of young and eager LINXX competitors were about to make their debut on the mats.

All NAGA events are part of the nationwide ranking system entitled RANKED. Victory for a competitor at a RANKED tournament is a successful step towards recognition on a national level. The system was put into effect by NAGA in 2002 and continues to be the largest submission grappling ranking system. It is designed to keep track of the best grapplers in the country and has helped grappling gain further recognition among other sports. First place competitors earn both a custom engraved Samurai sword and due credit on the NAGA RANKED website.

Six Junior LINXX competitors rolled on the mat that day, and together they rolled off with 11 placements in the top 3 spots for both Gi and No-Gi divisions. Kai Lockhart, 9, proudly earned 1st place in his Gi and No-Gi weight class. Troy Metcalf, Gavin Corbe, and Caleb Lynch were also honored with 1st place victories. Another notable match occurred when Deandre Corbe, 15-years-old and 95 lbs, took on Christian Clinton of Team ROC of North Carolina, who weighed in 30 lbs heavier than Corbe. After grappling with the considerably larger opponent, Deandre proceeded to take 2nd place in the Teen GI Intermediate Bantam Weight.

Five Master LINXX fighters grappled their way to seven top tier octagon medals at the tournament. Brandon Watts and John Lopez completed the selection of gold medal winners. Lopez secured the 1st place title for the Men’s No-Gi Intermediate Welter Weight division, and the ambitious White Belt requested to roll with the Blue Belts; ultimately placing 3rd in the advanced division. Watts went home with the 1st place title for the Men’s No-Gi Beginner Welter Weight division as well as the 1st place title for the Men’s Gi White Belt Welter Weight division.

Each LINXX grappler was confronted with experienced competitors, daunting weight classes and ranks, and the pressures of tournament competition, and they met each challenge head-on. Their confidence and drive, along with the training and support from their LINXX family, helped bolster each student to strive for greatness, accelerate in experience, and compete with the ferocity and poise of seasoned fighters.

04/17/2010 - LINXX Hosts Thai Boxing Seminar

LINXX Academy recently had the distinct privilege of hosting the 16th Annual Thai Boxing Seminar featuring Master Chai Sirisute, founder and president of the Thai Boxing Association (TBA) of the United States. Master Chai, known to his disciples as Ajarn Chai, is credited with bringing the art of Thai Boxing to the United States. For over 40 years now, he has defined the rhythm, technique, and form of Muay Thai. The mere presence of Ajarn Chai in a classroom can affect a student’s heart rate upon hearing the phrase “right round kick, go!”

The son of a prominent Bangkok lawyer, Surachai “Chai” Sirisute was encouraged to follow in his father’s footsteps. But young Chai had natural athletic abilities and was more interested in kicking his father’s heavy bag. Apparently, the rambunctious youngster taunted neighborhood Karate school kids and boasted that he could beat any of them. Observing this, the school’s instructor organized a sparring match where the precocious, untrained, six-year-old Chai actually defeated the older students. Determined to teach the boy a lesson in discipline, the instructor gave a mind-over-matter demonstration that some say inspired Ajarn Chai’s mantra of “discipline and respect”.

“I couldn’t believe it. I got so scared. After that, I just shut up and got into line and started throwing punches with the rest of them,” recalls Ajarn Chai.

Ajarn Chai began training in Muay Thai and Karate at the tender age of six. He officially started taking lessons in Thai boxing when he was eight years old. By the age of 12, he earned his black belt and also began fighting in the ring. Sirisute has fought competitively in over seventy Muay Thai contests and a multitude of western boxing bouts.

Today, Ajarn Chai handpicks the academies to host his sought-after seminars. On the weekend of April 17-18, 2010,LINXX Academy members and guests had the distinguished pleasure of welcoming the renowned master to the Redmill facility. LINXX students were given the opportunity to learn time-tested techniques from the Muay Thai master. LINXX Academy instructors lined up intermediate and advanced students to begin the anticipated lesson. The first few hours consisted of boxing techniques and basic fundamentals. Students then moved around the ring to watch Ajarn Chai direct focus mitt exercises with each eligible attendee, including Kenneth O’Connor, a LINXX Academy instructor candidate.

Apprentice instructorship under Ajarn Chai’s TBA is a procedure that consists of the disciples’ ability to demonstrate proper form, complete a demanding endurance round, and inevitably perform the Wai Kru (which means to pay respect or gratitude to the teacher). The endurance round requires a student to execute 60 kicks and 35 knees in two three-minute rounds against opposing TBA instructors. O’Connor and LINXX Academy founder/head instructor Frank Cucci, Sr. spent hours meticulously rehearsing the eloquent Wai Kru ritual. Pleased with the performance, Ajarn Chai awarded O’Connor the apprentice instructorship under TBA-USA.

Ajarn Chai continues to train students at his chosen facilities. LINXX Academy looks forward to many more visits from Ajarn Chai and is proud to be an annual stop on his academy tour. With the growing Muay Thai community and its integration into mainstream arenas, it is clear that Ajarn Chai’s mission of spreading Muay Thai around the world has clearly established a stronghold in America.

03/06/2010 - Us Grappling’s Ninth Submission Only Tournament

Imagine someone forcing your body into a joint lock or a choke hold. Imagine the pressure against your muscles straight down into your bones. How long do you think you could resist and how long could your energy bolster you until submission? Three minutes, maybe thirty seconds? Let’s try three hours.

On March 6, 2010, over 300 grapplers gathered in Ashland, VA to test their skills at US Grappling’s ninth Submission Only tournament. It had only been a month since the academy was notified of the event and five confident fighters walked into Patrick Henry High School, ready to roll. Apart from their individual obligations and training schedules, the groupincluded tournament training into their regular routine. Sparring, conditioning, and drilling were enforced three times a week by Coaches Nestor Bayot and James Gamble. Each student also continued to persevere with the academy’s jiu-jitsu program throughout the month. Although the team typically trains six weeks six weeks out per tournament, the rigorous regimen earned LINXX a placement in each team competitor’s division.

Driven and dedicated, Caleb Lynch proudly placed 1st in his White Belt Gi division. Lynch was matched up against older opponents throughout the entire tournament and eagerly scaled to the top of the ranks while Christian Diaz reinforced Team LINXX’s presence in Ashland, VA. The LINXX contender successfully secured the top position in his weight class after three matches. Christian earned his blue belt in Jiu Jitsu in August 2007 and has been with LINXX Academy since April 2009. Diaz continues to improve his techniques off and on the mat.

Khristopher Gonzalez weighed in at 170 lbs and endured competition with 230 lb opponent, Firas Barzinji – de la Riva of Synergy MMA, for 65 minutes before placing 2nd in the Absolute purple belt Men’s Gi division. Submission only tournaments have been famed for fighters with the capability to endure such matches. The longest fight ever recorded in history is credited to Helio Gracie, the celebrated innovator of jiu-jitsu, for three hours and 45 minutes nonstop.

As the brackets closed down and each fight finalized, Coach James Gamble rallied his team for the drive back home. They pensively reviewed the past afternoon and satisfied with their performance, the day passed. It had been an accelerated month full of hard work and excitement but each man knew, no matter what the result, this was just another stepping stone to being the best they can be.

Red Mill Grand Opening

The most highly respected and quality martial arts academy in the Hampton Roads area has officially launched its second location. On February 20, 2010, LINXX Academy of Martial Arts opened the doors to its highly anticipated Red Mill facility, located on the corner of General Booth Boulevard and Nimmo Parkway in the new Red Mill Landing complex. LINXX academy students will now be able to train at both facilities. The new 6,200 square-foot facility boasts top-of-the-line training equipment, including 10 heavy bags, a half cage with glide box, high quality Swain mats, and a regulation-size boxing ring. The boxing ring and mat area are set up with a video system that provides students the ability to review their training sessions.

The building was packed 30 minutes before the seminars began as students, parents, and guests eagerly prepared for a promising day. Mixed martial arts (MMA) enthusiasts and professionals from all over the east coast geared up to participate in workshops taught by prominent figures of the industry. The excitement began with the arrival of Pedro Sauer, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu guru and professor of LINXX academy’s own Frank Cucci, Sr. Jeff “Big Frog” Curran, World Extreme Cagefighting (WEC) superstar and former LINXX student, joined the gathering followed by Greg Nelson, owner of Minnesota Martial Arts Academy and coach of MMA stars Brock Lesner and Sean Sherk. Sean “The Muscle Shark” Sherk, former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) lightweight champion, completed the collection of world class talent on the guest instructor list. “The roster of individuals getting ready to train under this roof at this very moment is truly incredible,” remarked parents as everyone gathered to begin the festivities.

Opening remarks were made by founder and head instructor Frank Cucci, Sr., highlighting LINXX Academy’s heritage and mission. The Academy has proudly served the Hampton Roads community since 1992 and remains committed to the task of providing students with the most practical and effective self defense skills, rooted in the principles of ethical-moral development. The Academy is proud to maintain black belt ready instructors and a top notch staff. Mr. Cucci humbly thanked the community and his staff for their support throughout the years, took the time to appreciate the attractive facility, and proudly introduced the guest instructors of the day, kicking off an exceptional set of workshops and seminars.

Professor Pedro Sauer was the morning’s first instructor. Mr. Sauer is a certified 7th degree red/black belt Jiu-Jitsu instructor and is one of the most highly sought after instructors in the nation. For most, this was the chance of a lifetime. Students diligently listened to each instruction as Mr. Sauer discussed Gi Jiu-Jitsu techniques. After each technique was demonstrated, students proceeded to practice on the mat under the supervision of the acclaimed instructors. Mr. Sauer’s sincere personality earned him much admiration throughout the day from everyone in attendance. Professor Sauer currently resides in northern Virginia where he instructs at One Spirit Martial Arts and Jeff Gordon’s Self Defense Academy in Gaithersburg, Maryland.

Greg Nelson was next on the fascinating line-up. Mr. Nelson is known as one of the top cornermen/coaches in MMA and Muay Thai and has worked with a number of champions. In 2002, he was awarded his black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Professor Pedro Sauer and during the same year began his battle with non-hodgkins lymphoma; ultimately beating cancer twice after being diagnosed with a rare form of nerve cancer called neurolymphomatosis. Nelson has developed several fighters that hold title belts from the UFC, CMTF, USMTA, IKF, ISKA, WKA, NAGA, and a Bronze Medal in the 1996 Muay Thai World Championships. The valiant Mr. Nelson instructed the students at LINXX Academy on different variations of Muay Thai Clinch techniques. Greg Nelson is the owner and head instructor of the Minnesota Martial Arts Academy in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota.

Then came Jeff “Big Frog” Curran. Curran earned his black belt under Professor Pedro Sauer and is a former student of Frank Cucci, Sr. at LINXX Academy. At the age of 33, Curran has over 60 victories and a range of MMA experiences from around the world that make the WEC contender and UFC veteran a force to be reckoned with in the ring. The Strikeforce superstar eagerly assisted students around the room on No-Gi grappling techniques that have helped him gain recognition in the MMA community. Curran is a technical pioneer and students were provided the privilege to learn several submission wrestling moves under his supervision. Jeff Curran established the Curran Martial Arts Academy in Crystal Lake, Illinois and continues to be one the most active and promising contenders in the game.

Last but far from least, it was Sean “The Muscle Shark” Sherk’s turn to share his expertise. As a former UFC lightweight champion, Sherk has become a well-respected name in the business. Fans from around the world remember the “Muscle Shark” from his appearances at Extreme Challenge, King of the Cage, Pancrase, TKO, Extreme Challenge, The Ultimate Fighting Championship, and Pride Bushido. Even though most students in attendance had been in training for over five hours at this point, there was no sign of weariness as the crowd gathered to take a lesson from the Shark. The opportunity to work with the renowned fighter was too great to miss. Sherk quietly moved around the room observing and offering tips to students on MMA submission moves that have forged him into a champion. Sean Sherk continues to train at the Minnesota Martial Arts Academy under Coach Greg Nelson and looks forward to reinforcing his name as a MMA forerunner.

As masters of the martial arts industry graced the mats of the new LINXX Academy facility, spectators were joined by Shelley of FM 99. The radio station broadcasted on-site and hosted a UFC Unleashed video game competition. Ryan B, Mark A, and Lauren S’s knockout moves in the game ring earned him/her two tickets each to the Nickelback concert with Breaking Benjamin at the Hampton Coliseum on April 14, 2010.

As the day came to an end it was clear that the opening day festivities had sparked fire into the LINXX community. Practice continued for a number of students, inquiries for enrollments were addressed by LINXX staff throughout the day, and everyone involved hesitated to leave the engaging event. Guest instructors were available for pictures and attendees took advantage of the chance to ask for all types of advice, from fighting techniques to diet regimens. Mr. Cucci and his staff facilitated finishing touches to the new location’s schedule and appeal. To everyone involved, the event was a smashing success and a bright beginning for LINXX Academy of Martial Arts in Red Mill.

Mr. Brook's Muay Thai Debut

Dressed in his blue LINXX Academy Gi, Dan Brooks extends a hand out to 5 year old Dylan. She’s accustomed to this and happily gives him a high five. Mr. Brooks has been a part of the LINXX Academy family for over 15 years now and earned his place as the head Muay Thai Instructor. On February 13, however, Mr. Brooks entered Elite Fighting Challenge (EFC) 6’s cage and emerged with a different title. Dan Brooks, instructor, was now a victorious fighter of EFC 6’s Muay Thai Bout.

Dan got wind of the competition six weeks before the event and began his training immediately. With the help of Frank Cucci Jr., Brooks followed a rigorous Gym Jones workout routine three days a week and continued to train with the LINXX Academy competition team in the evenings. He devoted his time out of the gym to 3-5 mile runs and sprint work. All the while, maintaining responsibilities to LINXX Academy and his students. This intense workout schedule contributed to Brook’s final official weight at 158.4 qualifying the fighter for his 160 lb bout.

The first fight of his life became the first fight of the evening at Siegal Center in Richmond, VA. Mr. Brooks extended his hands out. His opponent, Tin Nguyen, did not receive a high five but a hard jab onto the head. Several hits later, he stumbled into Brooks’ kicks and it became clear that it was to be a tough fight for the Mixed Martial Arts Institute fighter. As Nguyen brought Brooks into a clinch in the second round, he received several swift knees to the rib. Nguyen’s attempts to back out of the clinch provided him a knee into the face. A few cut kicks into the leg and connecting jabs later, Nguyen is fluttering and out of breath. Dan’s aggression drove Tin to the floor and he made his way back into the corner. It’s the final round and clearly worn out, Nguyen approached Brooks only to find himself slammed into the cage and pummeled knee after knee. Dominance in the clinch earned Dan Brooks the win with a unanimous 30-26 decision.

Team LINXX was proud to welcome Brooks back home as an established Muay Thai victor of the ring. Brooks was happy to return to his students and diet. Jeremy Ridgeway, founder of the EFC, was asked what he looks for in a fighter. He responded, “Heart and proper training. If a fighter has those two things they can accomplish great things.” LINXX Academy is glad to say that it is clear Mr. Brooks has plenty of heart and excited that the proper training has helped him win the first of, hopefully, many great fights.

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