Mixed Martial Arts action returns to Sandpoint

SANDPOINT — A host of local Mixed Martial Arts fighters, as well as a couple of potential UFC fighters from Washington, will enter the cage as part of Livin’ Guilty 9, Sandpoint Standoff, Saturday night at the Bonner County Fairgrounds.

Saturday marks the second time MMA has come through Sandpoint, and fight promoter Jesse Eller believes the fight card will offer even more excitement than the first go around.

The main event features Newport pro Daniel Swain (6-1), who dominated undefeated Ultimate Fighter Sam Sicilia and has trained with the likes of Rashad Evans, Anthony “Rumble” Johnson and Alistair Overeem from Florida’s Blackzillian Fight Team, against Omak pro Lee Morrison (6-2) for the UCL 145 pound belt.

Eller says its a chance for Sandpoint MMA fans to see two fighters who are firmly on the UFC’s radar, with the winner possibly earning a spot in the sport’s elite level.

“They’re tough dudes, both college wrestlers,” said Eller, calling Swain’s ground game insane. “This show is going to be awesome.”

The co-main event will feature former Sandpoint wrestler Lukas “The Sandman” Carson (5-2) against Colville’s Cody Roy (5-2) at 145 pounds. Both fighters have fought some tough opponents recently, and the fight looks mostly even on paper, with Carson hoping for a boost from the hometown crowd.

Another local bout will feature Sandpoint Warrior Fitness fighter Tanner Weisgram (2-0), who has been training hard to get ready for his third fight. He specializes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai and boxing.

“I hope to be in as good of condition as I can be,” said Weisgram of the key to the fight. “I’d like to see it go in to the second round so I can pick him apart.”

Hale and a host of other Jiu-Jitsu fighters from Sandpoint recently went over to Newport to train with Swain, and Eller said Swain had high praise for the potential of Hale, whom Swain was unable to submit.

Hale, who is making his first trip into the cage, calls his style well-rounded, while specializing in Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai.

“The main thing is if we go to the ground is to submit,” said Hale. “Grab something and break it.”

The fights will be webcast live and free of charge on LDLTV.com, reaching more than 50,000 people worldwide. All told, 10 local fighters will enter the octagon.

“We’re really getting a lot of exposure for the Sandpoint fighters,” said Eller. “It’s a springboard to larger shows.”

Tickets will be on sale at the Fairgrounds, with the doors opening at 6 p.m.

For more information, or to watch the fights live online, visit “www.unifiedcombatleague.com.”