McCray, Seigal compete at Portland Jiu-Jitsu tourney

SANDPOINT — Black Bear Jiu-Jitsu practitioners Mike McCray and Cean Seigal represented Sandpoint last weekend at the North American Grappler’s Association Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournament in Portland.

NAGA is nationally recognized and host of one of the largest submission tournaments in the world. McCray placed first in the blue belt Gi division, while Seigal placed second in the no Gi division.    

“I dominated with points. I almost submitted him and controlled the top position the entire round,” said McCray, who teaches Jiu-Jitsu at Black Bear Tang Soo Do and helps train many of the area MMA fighters. “Cean had some good fights against some tough guys. For just coming into the sport he did awesome.”

Black Bear’s John Hale (5-0) will fight Brandon Sly on the undercard at the King of the Cage action at the Coeur d’Alene Casino on Friday night. Once again, Hale will fight before Trevor Prangley defends his title once again in the main event.

Teammate Skyler Bonner (5-3) will also be on the card, as each fighter gets a chance to showcase their skills in front of a packed house at arguably the best venue in the Inland Northwest. McCray believes Bonner will lean on his stand up game, while Hale should be able to keep his record perfect and continue to climb the ranks.

“I see John walking straight through his guy. He (Hale) has very heavy hands, is fast, and his submission game is top notch,” described McCray. “He’s extremely well rounded, and for his size he’s very strong.”