Fighter Profile: Antz "Notorious" Nansen

Overall Record: 1-0

Height: 5’10”

Weight: 205

Hometown: Mangere, New Zealand

Age: 26

Antz (Anthony) “Notorious” Nansen, 26, is a former professional kickboxer and competitive muay-thai fighter who transitioned into the world of mixed martial arts. Earlier this year, Nansen signed a contract to fight for the Japanese-based World Victory Road - Sengoku promotion. “Notorious” is trained by six-time world kickboxing champ, Jason “Psycho” Suttie and Roger Earp at the Elite Thai Kickboxing camp in New Zealand.

Before making the switch into MMA, Nansen became the WKBF Cruiserweight champion and later in October 2008, he became the WKBF Heavyweight champion by defeating Joe Martin. In between his kickboxing bouts, Nansen found enough time to compete in muay-thai competitions, compiling a 14-1-1 record (5 KO’s) and earning the IMF New Zealand Muay-Thai Heavyweight Title.

Hansen’s MMA debut didn’t turn out the way many had planned or hoped that it would. “Notorious” was announced as the opponent for 2004 Olympic Judo Silver Medalist, Hiroshi Izumo. Izumo was being marketed as Sengoku’s “golden child” based on his success in Athens. Nansen didn’t follow directions, instead used his superior striking skills to spoil the anticipated pro debut of Izumo by knocking him down on three different occasions en route to a 1st round TKO.

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The thrilling ending had been satisfaction alone for Nansen, who disapproved when Izumi went in front of reporters at the pre-fight press conference declaring that he wanted to stand and trade with the former champion kickboxer. Although he did pack much power with his punches, Izumi was overwhelmed by the overall striking technique of Nansen. Many were confused why the Judo champion didn’t take the fight to the ground, as it was clear that Nansen was weak on the ground, even going as far as admitting that he had begun to train grappling only at the start of 2009.

No matter the method of victory, it will go down as a successful debut for Antz and help him transition into his new challenge in combat sports. Nansen will probably continue to fight in Japan for Sengoku, but no doubt his next opponent will have the experience edge. If he continues to dominate, he will have the chance to pick where he wants to fight instead of the other way around. One thing is for sure, a star was born in the ring at Sengoku X and fans will look forward to seeing him compete in the very near future.

Recent Antz Nansen MMA News:

• Defeated Hiroshi Izumi via TKO (Strikes) in Round 1 at Sengoku 10 - Sengoku 10 results

By Nick Russell
ProFighting-fans.com MMA Staff Writer
Published September 2009