Frankie Saenz takes majority decision over Jade Porter in 145 pound prospect battle at Coalition of Combat

September 19, 2012

In pairing the two best unsigned Arizona featherweights Coalition of Combat matchmakers went for a home run with the main event of their third show. Both Frankie Saenz (5-2) and Jade Porter (9-3) held up their end of the bargain and gave COC a signature fight to hang their promotional hat on. Porter, a four star prospect at 145 pounds, put his COC belt on the line versus Saenz who was looking for redemption after a DQ loss in his last bout.

The first round opened with Saenz utilizing his improved hands as the former amateur wrestling star went toe to toe with Porter in striking exchanges. A member of Power MMA's fight team Porter stole the momentum in round two with a near 10-8 score due to a no doubt knockdown and multiple punches that landed flush on Saenz's chin.

In the final round Saenz went back to his wrestling roots and relied on his high motor. A handful of takedowns and a near submission attempt capped off a gutty comeback from Saenz. After 15 minutes of action all three judge's cageside came back with a different scorecards. Judges Jim Axtell and Chris Flores gave the nod to Saenz with 28-27 and 29-28 scores, while official Tom Gabauer saw the fight a 28-28 tie.

In the end Saenz pulled off a minor upset with a majority decision victory. Now full time at 145 pounds, Saenz could be a nice three to four fight winning streak away from getting serious looks from the UFC or Bellator. The loss snapped an impressive seven fight unbeaten streak for Porter.Training at the one of the best gyms in Arizona, the 5'7 Porter still remains at respected prospect at 145 and or 135 pounds if a weight cut is possible.

Coalition of Combat Pound for Pound results
Phoenix, AZ

Aaron Wilson def. Brandon Salinas by Submission Armbar 1:43 R1
Robert Tinney def. Brandon Foss by Submission Kimura 0:40 R2
Preston Harris def. Christopher McGraw by Submission Rear Naked Choke 2:01 R1
Richard Palencia def. Noel Soriano by Split Decision
Tony Kelley def. Sean Marsicane by TKO 2:30 R1
Alex Garcia def. Adam Ward by TKO 4:56 R2
Larue Burley def. Kelley Oser by Unanimous Decision
Tito Jones def. Larry DiGiulio by Split Decision
Benny Madrid def. Zack Surdyka by TKO 2:14 R2
Anthony Figueroa def. Freddie Lux by KO 0:48 R2
*Frankie Saenz def.* Jade Porter by Majority Decision

*Prospect to watch