Allstars Training Center was back in full force in 2017, dominating competition at the highest levels. For the first time since 2013, the Stockholm-based gym wins the award for Nordic Gym of the Year.
Lead by Alexander Gustafsson, who took center stage in his home country, the Mauler finished Brazilian Glover Teixeira (26-6) in an impressive barrage of punches.
It was a must win situation for Gustafsson that was left a packed Tele2 Arena shocked following an Anthony Johnson loss in the nation’s capital back in 2015.
It was also a big year for the Teymur brothers, as David notched two wins highlighted by an upset over the much hyped Lando Vannata in March. Daniel did his job of showing the gym could send fighters into the UFC well prepared as he won Fight of the Night honors on short notice in his octagon debut in July.
David Bielkheden also showed his career is not at the end, getting two wins in the Swedish promotion Superior Challenge. “The Brazilian Swede” has now won 8 wins in a row.
Ilir Latifi, who also puts in some of his camp at American Top Team, beat previously undefeated prospect Tyson Pedro in his only 2017 bout setting him up for a showdown with Ovince St. Preux in January.
Frantz Slioa also returned to action after his battle with cancer, notching a win over Dean Trueman in an impressive win at Cage Warriors 82.
With fighters such as Reza Madadi, Sirwan Kakai, Jonatan Westin, Max Nunes, Michel Ersoy, Mohammad Babadivand, and Fernando Gonzalez set for more action in 2018, it will be another busy year for the 2017 Nordic Gym of the Year lead by head coach Andreas Michael, Muay Thai coach Joakim Karlsson, and grappling/BJJ coach Alan ”Finfou” Do Nascimento.
Former Gym of the Year winners include :
• 2016 : Frontline Academy
• 2015 : Rumble Sports
• 2014 : Rumble Sports
• 2013 : Allstars Training Center
Check out a complete listing of all of the awards since the inaugural awards in 2011.
