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Ground Control Takes Leesburg By Storm
This past Saturday (04/10) Ground Control rolled into the Douglas Community Center in Leesburg VA over 250 strong for Combat in the Cage "Third Offense".
First up was Marty Kusick. From the minute Marty walked down to the cage, the energy in the gym changed. The cheers from his supporters drown out even the announcer. Onlookers, not familiar with Kusick, were shocked to learn this was his MMA debut.
From the opening bell, Marty took control of the cage. Covering for a high kick, Marty found himself defending a low single. Never really in danger, Marty snapped Bruce Baker into a tight guillotine. Baker, showing heart, refused to tap. Marty then dragged Baker to the canvas where he spun to his back and ended up in side control. Marty then grabbed an arm for an armbar but was blocked by the cage. After a brief adjustment, Marty straightened the arm for a submission at 1:05 of round 1.
Next up was Ryan Mackin. After nearly a year hiatus, Mackin looked both determined and focused.
Like is teammate, Mackin took immediate control of the cage. After a brief scramble on the feet, Mackin lifted his opponent, Steven Baker, off his feet with a textbook double leg takedown slam. Baker, a BJJ player, had a strong back game but Mackin was able to control the action on the ground by utilizing his good posture combined with violent ground-n-pound.
As the two fighters squared up for the second round, it was clear that Mackin had had enough and wanted to punish Baker with his striking game. After a few big shots from Mackin, Baker wanted none of it and pulled Mackin into his guard. From there Mackin rained down a barrage of punches to Bakers face leaving the Team Primal fighter semi conscious on the canvas :45 into round two.
With his 8th victory (8-0 overall) Mackin successfully defended his belt and remains the CITC Featherweight Champ.
Great job to the fighters and a special thanks to all 250+ Ground Control supporters.
Mackin and Kusick after their wins
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