K-1 Battle at the Bellagio Bellagio Hotel, Las Vegas NV August 15, 2003 World Champion Fighter Remy Bonjasky Wins K-1: Battle At Bellagio; Bob "The Beast" Sapp Wins Entertaining Super Fight Las Vegas -- World Champion Remy Bonjasky from Holland outlasted Michael McDonald in a closely fought battle in front of a sold-out crowd at the K-1: Battle at Bellagio Friday night. Bonjasky, who won the title by defeating three of the tournament's eight world-class competitors, advances to the K-1 Finals in Osaka, Japan held October 11th with the ultimate winner advancing to Tokyo for the K-1 World Grand Prix Finals. Also, in evening's special attraction, K-1 fan favorite Bob "The Beast" Sapp defeated Kimo Leopoldo, in a closely contested fight, with a knock out in the second round. Bonjasky defeated McDonald after the first sudden death round. The fight was called a draw after the first three rounds resulting in the additional three minutes. His first victory of the evening was won by KO after two minutes of the first round over Vernon White with a kick to White's head. Bonjasky's semi-final bout was against Jeff Ford, who actually lost his first-round matchup against Ric Roufus. However, due to a knee injury incurred in the bout, Roufus could not compete and Ford advanced. Bonjasky was able to overcome his own injury, a sprained foot injured in his first round win. "I was extremely happy with the way I fought tonight, especially after the second fight with Ford," said Bonjasky. "I knew I had to stay focused and pay attention to what I was doing in the ring. McDonald is a tournament champion and he throws a lot of body punches. I felt pretty good overall tonight and I just had to fight my own game. I am excited to advance to Osaka and I don't care who I fight." Sapp defeated Leopoldo in what turned out to be a closer fight than most expected. Leopoldo came out aggressively and attacked Sapp with a couple of strong body shots. Sapp became dizzy in the first round and even began to stumble in the ring a couple of times. Although he never went to the canvas, Sapp was clearly stunned. Sapp was saved by the bell in the first round and immediately retaliated in the second. "I was surprised by his shots and they stunned me. I was dizzy for the first time ever," said Sapp. "I learned a lot from this fight, especially that I needed to throw my straight right when someone is coming at me like he did tonight." Celebrity attendees at K-1: Battle at Bellagio included Mike Tyson, NBA legend Michael Jordan, Fighter Chuck Liddell, Professional boxer "Butterbean" and celebrity musicians Lee Ving and Dr. Dre. Following Sapp's fight, Tyson got into the ring and issued a challenge to the 6' 5" 356-pound "Beast" to which he responded, "I'll sign the contract to fight you today. The Beast is coming for you!" K-1 is the fastest growing form of sports entertainment in the world. For media or sponsorship information, contact Geoff Moss, K-1 USA (310) 200-1942 or at Geoff@K-1USA.net. Visit www.K-1usa.net for the latest K-1 updates. # # # -Back-