Well there has been a change in the format for the TUF9 tryouts… no more 185ers. They are now taking 170lbs and 155lbs. That mean Antmo is a go! SuckerPunch is also glad to announce that Philip “The Wicked” Wyman will be going up to the tryouts as well.
Levon “The Maynman” Maynard
How he would be portrayed on TV:
“The Nice Guy”, it would be hard for anyone to not like Levon if he were to make it on the show. He is so friggin humble and polite its almost painful! Levon is very well rounded and possesses all the skill and athleticism to go far in MMA, and would serve as a perfect ambassador for this sport… plus he’s ok to bring home to mom.
Zach “The Groundhog” Davis
How he would be portrayed on TV:
“The Happy Go Lucky Guy”, Zach is always smiling and loves to bring the showmanship to the cage. Earning his ring name because he is very slick on the ground, Zach would probably be a sleeper because people may underestimate him because of his happy attitude. Very respectful of the sport but would probably be in the mix for a good time if he were to make is on the show. Zach was also an alternate for the TUF7 season and is dropping to 170lbs for this tryout.
Francois “Bang Bang” Ambang
How he would be portrayed on TV:
“Dangerous”, Francois is probably the most finely tuned specimen we have seen outside of a comic book. Francois is a world class athlete and explosive striker. Just learning english in the past year and in the process of getting his citizenship it could be very interesting to watch how he fits in with a house full of alpha males. He will probably come across like Ivan Drago in Rocky IV… quiet and serious with a touch of, “I will break you”.
Anthony “Antmo” Morrison
How he would be portrayed on TV:
“The Student”, Anthony is someone who is a true student of the sport. Name an event and he’ll tell you the card. A very strong and compact fighter with a greco wrestling and boxing background, Antmo lives and breathes the gym. Coming from the rough streets of philly, Antmo’s friends are either in jail or dead. Never one to make excuses for the hand he was dealt, Antmo recognized he was in a bad environment and bought a bus ticket out of town. He has been residing in Richmond, VA ever since and training at Amir Sadollah’s home school Combat Sports Center. Needles to say his game has gone through the roof! He is a very skilled fighter that will project drive, tenacity, humility, eagerness and respect.
Phillip “The Wicked” Wyman
How he would be portrayed on TV:
“The Marine”, Already an ambassador for the Marine Corps and the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program, Phillip has to many martial arts credentials to list in this post. Phillip is a devoted husband and father with a squeaky clean image and is everything this sport needs to gain that “crossover” market. Having Phillip in the house would not only put the sport in a good light but he would represent the red, white and blue to the fullest as well.
Levon “The Maynman” Maynard
How he would be portrayed on TV:
“The Nice Guy”, it would be hard for anyone to not like Levon if he were to make it on the show. He is so friggin humble and polite its almost painful! Levon is very well rounded and possesses all the skill and athleticism to go far in MMA, and would serve as a perfect ambassador for this sport… plus he’s ok to bring home to mom.
Zach “The Groundhog” Davis
How he would be portrayed on TV:
“The Happy Go Lucky Guy”, Zach is always smiling and loves to bring the showmanship to the cage. Earning his ring name because he is very slick on the ground, Zach would probably be a sleeper because people may underestimate him because of his happy attitude. Very respectful of the sport but would probably be in the mix for a good time if he were to make is on the show. Zach was also an alternate for the TUF7 season and is dropping to 170lbs for this tryout.
Francois “Bang Bang” Ambang
How he would be portrayed on TV:
“Dangerous”, Francois is probably the most finely tuned specimen we have seen outside of a comic book. Francois is a world class athlete and explosive striker. Just learning english in the past year and in the process of getting his citizenship it could be very interesting to watch how he fits in with a house full of alpha males. He will probably come across like Ivan Drago in Rocky IV… quiet and serious with a touch of, “I will break you”.
Anthony “Antmo” Morrison
How he would be portrayed on TV:
“The Student”, Anthony is someone who is a true student of the sport. Name an event and he’ll tell you the card. A very strong and compact fighter with a greco wrestling and boxing background, Antmo lives and breathes the gym. Coming from the rough streets of philly, Antmo’s friends are either in jail or dead. Never one to make excuses for the hand he was dealt, Antmo recognized he was in a bad environment and bought a bus ticket out of town. He has been residing in Richmond, VA ever since and training at Amir Sadollah’s home school Combat Sports Center. Needles to say his game has gone through the roof! He is a very skilled fighter that will project drive, tenacity, humility, eagerness and respect.
Phillip “The Wicked” Wyman
How he would be portrayed on TV:
“The Marine”, Already an ambassador for the Marine Corps and the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program, Phillip has to many martial arts credentials to list in this post. Phillip is a devoted husband and father with a squeaky clean image and is everything this sport needs to gain that “crossover” market. Having Phillip in the house would not only put the sport in a good light but he would represent the red, white and blue to the fullest as well.
I have been involved in the martial arts for thirty years and have seen the wave of MMA develop into what it is today. There are alot of good fighters out there that seem to lack fundamental values that would make them great. Levon Maynard is one of the most respectful, gifted and disciplined students I have ever worked with. I just wish there were more fighters like him to represent our sport, but if we get 1 Levon in it will balance out 100 knuckleheads!
Levon you should DEFINITELY try out for the Ultimate Fighter 9… With your insane cardio and technique you would be a heavy favorite… and you being so humble, laid back, and with your positive attitude they wouldn’t have to worry about you crying for your girlfriend, getting all drunk and crazy, and destroying the Ultimate fighter House lol.
Levon Maynard is the epitome of a professional MMA fighter, emphasis being on professional. He is a class act, humble, and unassuming. When I first met Levon, it was hard for me to believe he was a fighter because of his personality…..until I rolled with him! His skills outweigh his personality. His determination and work ethic are like anyone I have ever seen. I have watched him train and prepare for fights and even after a victory he still keeps that hunger and trains like a madman. No doubt this guy will be at the top of the 170lb. weightclass when he gets into the UFC. GSP-watchout!
I agree with what Mateo and Travis have mentioned about Levon. He definitely will be a great asset to the sport. He is a beast in the ring and always places concern for the well being of his opponents afterward. TUF 9, be prepared for “The Maynman”!!!!
Also, good look to the others trying out for the same TUF 9.
Trust me – you want Zach in TUF. He’s a wild dude, but respectful and has a beast MMA game. Skilled in both stand-up and the ground. Sil-ly triangle, K.O. power, and wicked GnP. I’ve seen the difference between a Zach who’s just playing around and a Zach who’s focused on the win. You do not want to be on the other side of the cage when he’s in the zone. He’s relentless. He’s also hi-freakin-larious. A super nice guy that could crack and flip out on someone, which all-in-all makes him a perfect fit for TUF.
Levon Maynard, in my opinion, is one of the most well rounded fighters out there. He is one of the hardest working guys I have ever met. I do not think there is a seminar, or a day in class, I have not seen him training harder and harder each time. His self disipline shows not only in class, but outside the academy. And, he always seems to do it with a smile on his face.
Man thanks a lot for that guys I really couldn’t do it without all of your support. I have a strong team that helps me get stronger so that I can shoot for my goals. I won’t give up on my dreams. You guys are the greatest.
-LeVon
I can’t think of a guy with more class, skill and most importantly…..DETERMINATION. Levon would be a breath of fresh air in TUF house. A guy who is articulate and can get the job done but most importantly a guy who does not take his opportunities for granted. GO FOR IT LEVON!!!
Zach it would be awesome if you were on the show, CAN’T WAIT!!!!!!!to watch…
..Everyone who knows Levon Maynard knows his dedication to and Commitment to Martial Arts! And alot of people know Martial Arts, but he is! I to would like to see more fighters out there like him as far as discipline and technical knowledge goes! But it is the MaynMan that is bringin it to a Cage near you!
..DETERMINATION IS OFTEN THE FIRST CHAPTER IN THE BOOK OF EXCELLENCE!
OMG GOOD LUCK ZACH!!!!! You are a BEAST when it comes to your fights and u BELONG in TUF! Aside from your wicked fighting skills, you bring much more to the mat and ring, ur personality and attitude only make you stronger all around 🙂
Wish you the best!!
I like turtles.
Zach & Levon I wish you both the best Hopefully we can see some fighters on the show instead of Drama Queens!!!!! East Side Baby
Zach,Levon & Francois I hope to see all of you make the show, its about time they but on True ambassadors of the sport not Drama Queens!! Show them whats up with the East Coast!!
Havin been fortunate enough to train with Levon and getting to know him on a personal level has made me appreciate every god-given ability and skill he possesses. He’s the most coachable athlete I’ve ever come across and a natural talent. Everyone who has seen him move and perform has no question or doubt in his abilities. To piggy-back on what Mateo previously stated, it’s Levon’s character, attitude, loyalty and humbleness that separates him from everyone else.
It’s one thing to say someone has the same characteristics and another to actually live it 24/7. Levon lives, breathes, eats, sleeps and trains all of this on a daily basis. We can only go so far in life on our own, regardless of what endeavor we choose to follow. But what sustains us and makes us strong is the relationships we have. His strong family ties, the close-knit people and friends he chooses to let into his private life, his training camp…OUR training camp is what sets him apart. Having the right character, attitude and all that doesn’t mean anything if you don’t have the family behind you to support you.
OH YEAH…he can whoop some ass too.
Good things come to those who do good things. Best of luck to you, my brother. Everyone down here supports you and I will be there with you in spirit.
Good luck boys. I’m sure you’ll do great at the try outs and on the show. “Just sucker punch’em!”
Zach is my hero. I may or may not have a stuffed Zach that I sleep with at night…. Even though it scares the crap out of me.
Zack might not be a great singer but he is great fighter! I hope he makes it on the show!!
Best of luck ZACK! Matt and ALL the guys out here at Fort Riley can’t wait to watch you on the show. You have most of the 1st ID 4th Brigade Combat Team cheering you on. See you on tv!
When I watch the first episode of a new season of TUF, the first thing that always pops into my head is, “FightingFetus (Zach) would be perfect for this show.” He has way more skill and personality than any other MMA fighter I’ve ever met. He’s tough and skilled, but he’s also funny, smart and witty. Now, if only I can talk him into getting drunk and crying every night, he’ll HAVE to be allowed on the show.
I rolled with Zach when he was just getting started and even then he was relentless – all heart. His wrestling background was an excellent base to start from and he has only gotten better. From what I see his total game is tremendously skilled and well-rounded. Should the person calling the shots for TUF9 be reading this, make no mistake, Zach is the real deal. Support the pure fighters of the sport and lets forget the one dimensional showboats. Take Zach. No question.
Zack to take the whole thing via Upper Decker!
Not only does Zach have great skill and talent, but his personality is like none other. His sense of humor and good nature bring a positive (yet intimidating/strong) attitude to the mat. I think he would be an asset to the show & I think not only is his personality great for TV, but he has the ability to do great things!!!!! Good luck Groundhog!!!!
Zach definitely belongs on TUF9.
zachs a beast, probably the best guy I have ever boxed and it was his first time boxing (manor woods back in the day). seen him fight recently is even better. would love to roll or spar with him any time!
Big fan of Zach Davis. Love his fights.
Not going to wish You luck Zach because I know you’re going to do great! Hope you kick some major ass bro! See you soon!
With Respect,
-Ray
I wrestled with Zach Davis in High School. At that point, we called him, such an ungainly object of derision, “Professor Frink,” after the simpsons, because of a pronounced vocal quirk and an affinity for math (he was part of a gifted program that serviced people adept at numbers). Throughout high school, i watched him beat a lot of people matwise, and began to see a sort of transformation. But i don’t think any of his friends could possibly have foreseen what he’s become.
I live abroad now, and can only monitor with a great degree of awe that a math genius, a hilarious ungainly nerd, has morphed into some sort of an “ultimate fighter.” I have religious confidence that he’ll win whatever he’s put in, that he’ll ruin any person he fights, and by nature of his inherent, passionate goofiness I am positive he would make incredible television. Put him on. He’ll win the whole the whole thing.
Zach deserves to be on the next UFC show. I train at the same place he trains at and i have personally seen how commited he is to his training and even to helping the others at the training center himself. a real humble dude who really knows what hes doing when the bell goes ding. if there is anyone that deserves this shot it is def zach. were all standing behind you zach. get her done buddy get her done.
Zack is one of those guys that you’ll have a good time hanging out together on Sunday afternoon watching football. Then in the ring, I wouldn’t want to face him because he’ll just smile at you and show on fear in his eyes. Zack will bring his personality and great work ethic to the show. He definitely belongs to TUF. Good Luck!!!
Just like Frank The Tank said above, we don’t want any more Drama Queens on this show. Zach Davis would bring skill, class, and entertainment to the show. The nonsense they’ve let on the show lately has made it really difficult for me to watch. I want to watch a show that can help further the sport and support the organization, give me Z-Davis.
Zach – Can’t wait to see you on the next TUF. Your personality and fighting style will be perfect for the show. Don’t forget us when you make it to the big show!
Good Luck Zach!!! Good luck, have fun, and DO YOUR THING! You’ll do great, as always.
ZACH!!!!! You go boy… I’m sure by “happy go lucky” they meant “blood-covered and brutal”. You’ll do great!!! Let us know if you need supporters to come out, in the event that you fight locally!!
Zach is truly a modern day warrior; the complete fighter. In the cage, he’s like Amir Sadollah, only with better jiu-jitsu. Outside the cage, he’s just as self-effacing as Amir but waay more charismatic (and I say this as a huge Amir Sadollah fan). If you don’t believe me, just watch him as he walks out to the cage and witness the show he puts on.
Good luck Zach!
Zach is a future star about to shine. I have a feeling he’ll put the competition to sleep or knock their teeth out with a smile on his face. Good luck Zach! Go get em Ground Hog.
Zach what is this I hear about you being a happy go lucky guy. You are one crazy son of a sexy bitch.
Levon would be a great contestant on the Ultimate Fighter. It’s so annoying watching the show now and seeing all these boneheads jumping in the cage, disrespecting their opponents, and taking everything back to the stone age. Levon, whose humble yet confident approach; would be a great ambassador to the sport of MMA. I’m sure he’ll bring the pain.
Zach, i’ve trained with you in the past year and i see absolutely no reason why you shouldn’t get on the show, you are one of the most well rounded fighters i know and you have a very good outlook on life, simply saying you are a pleasure to be around, best of luck champ.
I could sit here and write volumes on LeVon abilities in a cage or ring but I won’t. No one can truly appreicate and respect what talent lies in that man until you have trained with him and I thank God I had the furtune to do so. I’ll let LeVon’s talent speak for itself. What I will tell you is that Levon Maynard is annoyingly nice, respectful, humble, and soft spoken. He’s an absolutely wonderful person to know and be around. He infects people with his charm, SMILE, and kindness. LeVon Maynard is the type of person I wish I could be and after meeting LeVon you would probably say the same. His abilities in the ring or cage are only over shadowed by his personality and character. LeVon is and will be an asset to any MMA organization that chooses him. UFC lookout you’re not getting one of the best raw talents the world of MMA has seen but you’re also getting an absolutely incredible human being. LeVon, I love you man, time to shine, Global FOREVER.
Man, they better take Zach. His fights are always so much fun to watch. Hell even when hes just grappling its still always exciting. Plus stickin him in a house with 15 other fighters for however long with nothin to do but train will def lead to some great tv. I almost can’t wait to see it!!!
I’ve been following Zach Davis’s career now for a couple years. To me, it’s a logical progression that he be chosen for Ultimate Fighter 9. a) He’s menacing in the ring; a frightening hybrid of raw strength and tactical know-how and b) he’s a genuine and funny individual; I am 100% confident that if you turned TV cameras on him that people would be immediately won over. Take ’em down, Zach!
With Zack Davis the entertainment starts from the ring entrance and does not stop until well after Zack’s hand is raised and he has left the ring. Zack has incredible ground game. His hands are deceptive and can punish an opponent into making his biggest mistake. Taking Zack to the Ground is “GAME OVER”. He is a class act that shows proper respect but can work the crowd. I was very disappointed the UFC missed the opportunity to showcase his talents. Hopefully they will not make the same mistake again.
Zack Davis is the type of fighter that would be able to bring MMA to the next level. He has the personality for the limelight and the animalizem needed for the cage. If TUF took Zack in they would be doing a great service for the MMA profession as a whole. I have rolled with Zack and know first hand how silly his triangles are. I have seen Zack fight and truely feel he would be a top contender on any of the TUF shows past or present.
Go Zack! I know you will make it and wish you continued success
Zach is one of the best guys I know all around. He’s got some serious skills, and he’s funny as hell. Respectful at all times, and curteous. I know Zach would be a complete asset to the UFC reality show.
Good Luck Zach! You know you’ve got the OSC cheering you on! =)
Zack!!!!! TUF needs the Groundhog!!! No one has the same combination of skill, professionalism, humor and general all around awesome-ness! I don’t watch TV, but I will watch EVERY MINUTE of you, Zack! Remember me when your under the lights!
Francois, Levon and Zac are some of the nicest and most respectful warriors out there but dont let that fool you. All three guys are Monsters in the cage. Good luck guys!
If you want to read more about Zach’s journey check out my blog-
http://mosesisalwaysevolving.blogspot.com/
Zach is one of those rare guys you meet that is just got a great person all around, and does well in everything he does. No matter how good he is or does, he is grounded and humble, and you want good things to happen to him. Putting him on TUF to give him a chance to do something he really wants, and deserves, and is very good at, only makes sense. Plain and simple. Maybe his only negative is he isn’t a Dallas Cowboys fan, LMAO!!! Good luck Zach, you deserve it bro!
Levon Maynard! What can I say that hasn’t been said about him. He is a excellent fighter with the physical and mental capabilties to do anything he wants in this sport. I know he will go far in his career with MMA and he will defintley make the UFC happy to get an outstanding fighter like himself.
Oh, and on top of all that, he is a pretty funny dude to be around.
Go get’em Maynman!
Zack for sure! Hes got the entire package…skill, talent, professionalism, personality, and respect! I don’t know anyone else who could even come close in comparison! Good luck bro!
Zach will be great for the show because he is a great fighter and a great person in and out of the ring. You need more fighters like him. Goo luck Zach!!!!
It’d be awesome to watch Zach on TUF. I’ve known Zach for years. He’s funny and a great guy. I’d love to see him on the show kicking butt in the ring.
Zach is a well rounded fighter. He a very nice guy exept when he is in the cage. He trains very hard. With the attitude he got, he would be exellent for TUF. CAnt wait to watch. Terrible singer though.
yo zach good luck, i watch all the seasons of the show and if you were on i would tell all of my friends how my back-neighbor is whooping ass on national tv!
wooooohooooo
I would SO like all three guys to get on TUF, because that means I can finally talk about them on Matt-Hughes Forum in my own section. See I Moderate TUF Section…this would be FANTASTIC!!
I dont really know Zach or Ambang…but I’ve spoken on here and on Myspace to Levon heaps!! and He’s just GOT to make it onto the show! I did say I knew he’d make it to the UFC a while back.
damnit, I already have my favourite to win, and the Trials havent happened yet hahahahahaha!
WAR LEVON
WAR ZACH
WAR AMBANG
(please dont fight each other though…until the Finals LOL)
Zach is such a well-rounded guy! We are talking more than just MMA. Coming from his sister, he explained his devotion to MMA as, “Jess, I like this more than I like girls….and you know how much I like girls. ” What’s more interesting than a MMA fighter with 3 sisters? What’s more interesting than a nerd turned MMA fighter? He’s the one who went to brazil to develop his BJJ, he not only did that but also learned Portuguese,found a girlfriend, and a new tattoo. I think he is perfect for the show because he is skilled, devoted, interesting, and likeable without all the drama of people so often on tv these days. Not only will the MMA world root for him but also the regular joe! He will surprise you whether in person or in the ring.
ZACH DAVIS,
Was hanging out with Phil and watched one of your fights online. Holy crap man! I don’t know how you got that submission but you are one goofy/scary motherf***er! My family and friends are rooting for you.
If you ever get a break from training you’ve got to come back out to Annapolis and next summer we’re going to the beach.
Alright man, keep the laughs and punches coming!
-Joe Friend
Zach in my opinion is the true “ROCKY” of our gym…always training, always punishing, always saying the funniest most random things..And all of you guys that train with him, (you know who u are) can agree that he’s def got the heart. You are a true champion.
I wrestled with zach in high school – I remember when he was tossing 189lb kids on their backs when he weighed in at under 170lb. He has a hell of a lot of heart. He will break kids that underestimate him.
Goodl uck, Zach! The show would be more of a hit with you on it!
Zach is a skilled and entertaining fighter with great potential. He is also a very confident, charismatic, and witty character. This combination of skills, abilities, and personality traits makes him an ideal candidate for a show like the ultimate fighter, where the trainees need to be both promising fighters and unique, entertaining individuals. Zach is your man!
Zach, the show would suck without you! I can’t wait to yell and scream at the TV when I am watching you on the show! II know if you are on the show, you will make it to the end! Good luck!
just put zach on tv, you won’t find someone who regrerts it, promise!!!!
it seems this is your new blog. I read some comments and most of them are for you, no wonder why…..you posses the skills that this show requires and an awesome personality
I didn t know about your secret nerd side.. cool
i wish you the best!!
rompe..!!!
haha
Fer
Oh man you guys are awesome, I only hope I can make you all proud. Its easy to give a 100% when there are this many people behind you. Can’t wait to lay it all on the line, thanks for all the support.
Zack deserves to be on the show. Zack is a great fighter and truly a good person , he comes to win and has a great spirit……………….
Good luck out there zack, we know you’ll tear it up!
Zach Great show…as allways actualy. Hey man just want to congratulate you on another victory keep it up man.
p.s. “The Triangle kid”- is my nickname for you!
I cant say anything else that hasnt been said about Levon. He should be on the show and in the UFC .It would be nice to see my friend on TV kicking butt.He has it all, and is such a nice person. A roll model for us all! I wish him the best.
Not only is Zack an unbelievable Fighter, but he’s also an awesome person and role model. Zack has been instructing my children in martial arts for several years. He has helped to teach my children discipline, respect and self confidence which has been carried out into real world settings such as at school or on their sports teams. My children admire Zack for what he’s become. Not only because he’s a successful Fighter, but because of the type of person that he is.
Zack can consistently urinate on pillows, and his furniture destruction skills are second to none. You need him!
If Zach is on this year i don’t know if anyone can stop him. He’s the first and last person training everyday and his heart is the only thing tougher than his body. Good luck to everyone this season.
I am blessed to be a part of this TEAM!
I am looking forward to this experience and cannot wait to perform.
Mark my words! The wicked Phil Wyman will clean house! Go Phil!!
Put together the most genuinely nicest guy you’ll ever meet with the hardest working MMA athlete you’ll ever see train and you’ve got Levon Maynard. He’s got a big heart and even bigger sledgehammer fists. If you’ve never met him, you’ll be in for a big surprise by his great character and his ability to whoop azz!
Damn Team Suckerpunch rolls deep, cant wait to take chicago by storm
Superman wears Zack Davis pajamas. Kick some butt man, can’t wait to see you on TV!
Good luck Francois, even though you don’t need it. With your combination of strength and technique …just do you…and you got this! Wishing the entire team the best in Chicago!
Francois, je vous aime et vous manque alot! Je regrette que je ne sois pas là. Bonne chance et Que Dieu vous bénisse.
Wow Zach!! At it again ay? Honestly, I was suprised to not see you on this season especially after seeing some of the performances on the show. I’ve been training in martial arts for ten years seven of which, I’ve spent playing BJJ and I’ll say this, Zach was always one of the most promising fighters at our academy. Ever since the first time I rolled with him I knew he was a force to be reckoned with. Now that he’s got his stand up tight I have no doubt in my mind he’ll be one of the great competitors on TUF. Great wrestling background, solid BJJ skills, and good stand up qualities. What more could you ask for. I’ve kept up with MMA since the birth of UFC and as a viewer, I’d like to see this guy Zach fighting on my TV screen in 2009. Not because I need to point and say, hey I know that guy but rather, so I may enjoy that much more, the sports I train and love.
Go Phil!! We are all pushin for you in your hometown!!! Beat em down like a Jundokan would beat a taekwondo guy in an AAU Karate tourney. Ha!
J
Zach is a WILD MAN! He pushes everything to the limit and then some in everything he does! Cant wait to see you push the limits on TUF!!!
I can take them all them bitches………………………………………………………………………………to McDonalds.