Koch’s stock still rising

Erik Koch passed a tough test on the Big Easy.

The 22-year-old mixed martial arts fighter from Cedar Rapids took another step toward his championship goals with a victory over Jonathan Brookins Saturday in a nationally televised featherweight bout as part of the main card for UFC Fight Night 25 in New Orleans. Koch won his fourth straight fight, improving to 13-1, with a unanimous decision.

Koch, a talented striker, said it was awesome to be on the live card, which was broadcast in primetime on Spike TV, but wanted to win by knockout or submission.

"It was definitely frustrating," said Koch, who was tied up by Brookins routinely and pinned to the cage, working for takedowns and decreasing Koch's ability to strike. "I'm a finisher. I like to finish fights, and I like to put on a good show for the fans. That's one thing that kind of bummed me out."

http://fightnext.com/video/1A6RN1459KDB/Erik-Koch-vs-Jonathan-Brookins--UFC-Live-Shields-vs-Ellenberger

Koch,  whose nickname is "New Breed" for his versatile fighting style, landed key kicks and punches, especially in the final round to earn the victory over Brookins, a winner of  The Ultimate Fighter reality show. The emotional victory follows two straight knockouts and a submission in his previous three fights.

"I can't really blame the guy," Koch said. "On paper, going into the fight, the only way he could win was get me on the ground."

Koch visited Bourbon Street, celebrating his success with a night on the town. While enjoying the "crazy" scene and party atmosphere of New Orleans, he likely toasted the family members, friends and training partners, including those he works with at Coach Duke Roufus' Roufusport Mixed Martial Arts Academy in Milwaukee, Wis. He praised each of them for contributing to his MMA success while riding from Louisiana to Cedar Rapids with five other friends stuffed in a Jeep Commander on Monday.

"It's one of those things that it's not all me," said Koch, who originally started training with his brother, Keoni. "It takes all kinds. I've got great friends and family members that care."

Koch continues to ascend the UFC ranks, and is among the top feather weight fighters. His focus now switches to the Oct. 8 fight between Kenny Florian and champion Jose Aldo at UFC 136 in Houston, Texas. Koch expects a call after that match, determining his next foe. He may get a title shot, a rematch with fellow contender Chad Mendes, who handed Koch his only loss, but hopes for at least a top-five opponent.

"The title is my goal," Koch said. "Whatever my fastest way to the title, that's what I want."