Headed up by co-promoters Kevini Maumau and Phelp Tino, Battle in Big Spring is to get under way shortly after 7 p.m. and will feature a number of talented martial artists from across the area.

“It’s really hard to say who is going to be on the card at this point because we have fighters calling from all over the region still wanting in,” said Maumau with a laugh. “We’re going to present a number of matches, including some special matches that will highlight the importance of mixed martial arts, the ground game and other aspects of the sport. It’s going to be a great way to introduce the people of Big Spring to the sport.”

Maumau said the card has seen several changes over the last few days, including one unfortunate blow to the show’s headline fighter.

“Leland Chapman was supposed to fight, but he and his bodyguard got mixed up in a fight in San Francisco,” said Maumau. “Because of that, they have to stay in San Francisco and get that cleared up, and won’t be able to make the fight. He was very upset that he wouldn’t be able to be in Big Spring, and asked me to extend his apologies to everyone and let them know he has every intention to fight in the next show we promote here.”

Chapman, who was born in Groom, is a Hawaii-based bail bondsman and bounty hunter, and the third son of Duane “Dog” Chapman, a reality television personality. Chapman is also well known for his well-documented “Lelandisms,” the most recently being, “If your bodyguard sucker punches Don Frye and you see Scott Norton heading your way, run!”

Maumau said the show will go on, however, and if interest is any factor, he expects to see plenty of top-notch fighters ready to take the ring Saturday night.

“There is so much talent in this area, it’s hard not to see it,” said Maumau. “We just opened a gym in Big Spring, and you should see the kids and adults that are just walking in off the streets. It’s amazing. I guarantee you a champion is going to come out of Big Spring. That’s a fact.”

Maumau and Tino, who recently opened a mixed martial arts gym at 2210 Main Street, said they have big plans for the Crossroads area.

“It’s kind of funny. We’ve only been at the location a little while, and we’re already beginning to outgrow it,” said Maumau with a laugh. “Me and Phelp came here from Hawaii, mainly because the school systems there are at the bottom of the list for America. The school system here is really top notch, and we’re already seeing serious improvement in their studies.

“When we first came here, I had planned to work in the construction business, flipping homes. However, the market here just wouldn’t support that, so I began looking for something else to do. Raul Marquez (former Moore Development board member and official with KBYG Radio) encouraged me to develop the gym and these MMA shows. I have to say, I’m very humbled to have him supporting us. He’s a big reason we’re doing what we’re doing now. The people in Big Spring are much more friendly that the people back home, we’re all very happy to be here.”

Maumau said gates are set to open at 6 p.m. with seating at 7 p.m.. Tickets will be sold at the door with general admission $10, ringside seats $20 and children 7 years old and younger free.

For more information on Saturday night’s show or LCS Promotion, contact Tino at 816-3843.

“If anyone has a question, they can call us,” said Maumau. “We would be more than happy to answer any questions they have.”

Contact Staff Writer Thomas Jenkins at 263-7331 ext. 232 or by e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it