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Recently, former Sengoku middleweight champion Jorge Santiago had recieved some of the best news he's heard in a longtime. Not only was Santiago one of the most sought after free agents, but he has long been considered one of the best in his class. Now, Jorge will have the chance to reassert those claims as he makes his reentry into the UFC come this May against budding contender Brian Stann. But as the biggest phase of his career comes to a head, many will wonder if the recent split from American Top Team will effect him leading up to his new venture with the UFC. In fact, along with Santiago, notables such as "JZ" Cavalcante, Danillo and Yuri Villefort have also since left their stomping grounds of ATT. ...
The second week of December brought with it a big week in mixed martial arts competition as equally as it delivered a big week of success for the increasingly impressive American Top Team gym headquartered in Coconut Creek.
From the UFC's "Fight for the Troops" on Spike TV Wednesday night in Fayetteville to the debut of Mixed Fighting Alliance in Miami, American Top Team set the pace of champions. ATT fighters scored big as well at CQC "In the Cage" in Charlotte and during the UFC's Ultimate Fighter Season 8 Finale in Las Vegas Saturday night.
"Snowman" Jeff Monson (25-8) defeated "Suave" Ricco Rodriguez (30-9) via unanimous decision Saturday night during the main event at the Mixed Fighting Alliance debut in Miami.
"I am happy with the win but I was a little sloppy tonight." Monson told Fighters.com following the fight.
The main event battle at MFA "There Will Be Blood" was a full round war with each fighter going the distance but Monson winning on all cards in the end. Monson, famous for his blunt honesty, had criticism for his performance.
"A win is a win but I need to improve." The Abu Dhabi and UFC veteran told Fighters.com. "My jiu-jitsu felt good in the fight but my boxing was a little weak." Monson continued, "I need to spend more time in the American Top Team gym here in Florida. You know, I need to work with more guys down here to prepare for fights."











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