MMA Discussion

[Just Jeans]

Discuss news and rumors surrounding UFC and Pride.

[Denzil]

Here is some events and rumoured fights for UFC:

UFC 74: Respect (8/25/07) – Las Vegas, NV (Mandalay Bay Events Center)
Main Card:
UFC Heavyweight Championship: Randy Couture vs. Gabriel Gonzaga
Josh Koscheck vs. Georges St. Pierre
Roger Huerta vs. Alberto Crane
Joe Stevenson vs. Kurt Pellegrino
Kendall Grove vs. Patrick Côté

Preliminary Card:
Renato Sobral vs. David Heath
Frank Mir vs. Antoni Hardonk
Thales Leites vs. Ryan Jensen (televised)
Marcus Aurelio vs. Clay Guida


UFC 75: Champion vs. Champion (9/8/07) – London, England (02 Arena)
Main Card:
UFC & PRIDE Light Heavyweight Championship: Quinton Jackson vs. Dan Henderson
Michael Bisping vs. Matt Hamill
Mirko Filipović vs. Cheick Kongo
Marcus Davis vs. Paul Taylor
Houston Alexander vs. Alessio Sakara

Preliminary Card:
Gleison Tibau vs. Terry Etim
Thiago Silva vs. Tomasz Drwal
Naoyuki Kotani vs. Dennis Siver
Jess Liaudin vs. Anthony Torres


UFC Ultimate Fight Night 11 (9/19/07) – Las Vegas, NV (The Pearl at the Palms)
Main Card:
Din Thomas vs. Kenny Florian
Terry Martin vs. Chris Leben
Nate Diaz vs. Junior Assuncao
Nate Quarry vs. Pete Sell

Preliminary Card:
Gray Maynard vs. Joe Veres
Luke Cummo vs. Edilberto de Oliveira
Leonard Garcia vs. Cole Miller
Kuniyoshi Hironaka vs. Thiago Alves
Dustin Hazelett vs. Jonathan Goulet


UFC 76: Knockout (9/22/07) – Anaheim, CA (Honda Center)
Main Card:
Chuck Liddell vs. Keith Jardine
Mauricio Rua vs. Forrest Griffin
Diego Sanchez vs. Jon Fitch
Lyoto Machida vs. Kazuhiro Nakamura
Tyson Griffin vs. Thiago Tavares

Preliminary Card:
Anthony Johnson vs. Rich Clementi
Jeremy Stephens vs. Diego Saraiva
Scott Junk vs. Christian Wellisch
Matt Wiman vs. Michihiro Omigawa


UFC 77: Hostile Territory (10/20/07) – Cincinnati, OH (U.S. Bank Arena)
Main Card
UFC Middleweight Championship: Anderson Silva vs. Rich Franklin
Brandon Vera vs. Tim Sylvia
Jorge Gurgel vs. Alvin Robinson
Stephan Bonnar vs. Eric Schafer
Kalib Starnes vs. Alan Belcher

Preliminary Card:
Yushin Okami vs. Jason MacDonald
Demian Maia vs. Ryan Jensen (televised)
Josh Burkman vs. Forrest Petz
Jason Black vs. Matt Grice


UFC 78: Validation (11/17/07) – Newark, NJ (Prudential Center)
Main Card:Rashad Evans vs. Michael Bisping
Houston Alexander vs. Thiago Silva
Karo Parisyan vs. Ryo Chonan
Joe Doerksen vs. Ed Herman
Frank Edgar vs. Spencer Fisher

Preliminary Card:
Thiago Alves vs. Chris Lytle
Joe Lauzon vs. Jason Reinhardt (televised)
Marcus Aurelio vs. Luke Caudillo
Akihiro Gono vs. Tamdan McCrory

UFC Ultimate Fighter 6 Finale (12/8/07) – Las Vegas, NV (The Pearl at the Palms)
Main Card:
Roger Huerta vs. Clay Guida
Ultimate Fighter 6 Finals: Mac Danzig vs Tommy Speer
Jon Koppenhaver vs Jared Rollins
George Sotiropoulos vs Billy Miles
Ben Saunders vs Dan Barrera

Preliminary Card:
Matt Arroyo vs John Kolosci
Jonathan Goulet vs Paul Georgieff
Roman Mitichyan vs Dorian Price
Troy Mandaloniz vs Richie Hightower


UFC 79: Nemesis (12/29/07) – Las Vegas, NV (Mandalay Bay Events Center)
Main Card:
Interim Welterweight Championship: Georges St. Pierre vs. Matt Hughes
Wanderlei Silva vs. Chuck Liddell
Eddie Sanchez vs. Soa Palelei
Lyoto Machida vs. Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou
Rich Clementi vs. Melvin Guillard

Preliminary card:
Manvel Gamburyan vs. Nate Mohr (televised)
Mark Bocek vs. Doug Evans
Dean Lister vs. Jordan Radev
Roan Carneiro vs. Tony DeSouza
James Irvin vs. Luis Cane


UFC 80: Rapid Fire (01/19/08) - Newcastle, England (Metro Radio Arena)
Main Card:
Lightweight Championship: B.J. Penn vs. Joe Stevenson
Gabriel Gonzaga vs. Fabricio Werdum
Marcus Davis vs. Jess Liaudin
Wilson Gouveia vs. Jason Lambert
Kendall Grove vs. Jorge Rivera

Preliminary card:
Per Eklund vs. Sam Stout
Alessio Sakara vs. James Lee (televised)
Colin Robinson vs. Antoni Hardonk (televised)
Paul Taylor vs. Paul Kelly (televised)


UFC Fight Night 12 (01/23/08) - Las Vegas, NV (The Pearl at the Palms)
Main Card:
Mike Swick vs. Josh Burkman
Drew McFedries vs. Patrick Côté
Thiago Tavares vs. Michihiro Omigawa
Alvin Robinson vs. Nate Diaz

Preliminary card:
Alberto Crane vs. Kurt Pellegrino (televised)
Gray Maynard vs. Dennis Siver
Cole Miller vs. Jeremy Stephens
Corey Hill vs. Joe Veres
Matt Wiman vs. Justin Buchholz


UFC 81: Breaking Point (02/02/08) - Las Vegas, NV (Mandalay Bay Events Center)
Main Card:Interim Heavyweight Championship: Tim Sylvia vs. Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Frank Mir vs. Brock Lesnar
Nate Marquardt vs. Jeremy Horn
Rob Yundt vs Ricardo Almeida
Tyson Griffin vs.Gleison Tibau

Preliminary card:
Chris Lytle vs. Kyle Bradley (televised)
David Heath vs. Tim Boetsch (televised)
Marvin Eastman vs. Terry Martin
Keita Nakamura vs. Rob Emerson (televised)


UFC 82: Pride of a Champion (03/01/08) - Columbus, Ohio (Nationwide Arena)
Main Card:
UFC & PRIDE Middleweight Championship: Anderson Silva vs. Dan Henderson
Heath Herring vs. Cheick Kongo
Chris Leben vs. Alessio Sakara
Yushin Okami vs. Evan Tanner
Jon Fitch vs. Chris Wilson

Preliminary card:
Andrei Arlovski vs. Jake O’Brien
Luke Cummo vs. Luigi Fioravanti
Dustin Hazelett vs. Josh Koscheck (televised)
David Bielkheden vs. Diego Sanchez
Jorge Gurgel vs. John Halverson

UFC Fight Night 13 (04/02/08) - Denver, Colorado (Broomfield Event Center)
Main Card:
Kenny Florian vs. Joe Lauzon
Frank Edgar vs. Gray Maynard
Thiago Alves vs. Karo Parisyan
Tim Boetsch vs. Matt Hamill
Nate Diaz vs. Kurt Pellegrino
Houston Alexander vs. James Irvin

Preliminary card:
Josh Neer vs. Din Thomas
Marcus Aurelio vs. Spencer Fisher
Jeff Cox vs. Manny Gamburyan
Samy Schiavo vs. Clay Guida
Roman Mitichyan vs. George Sotiropoulos
Anthony Johnson vs. Tommy Speer (televised)


UFC 83: Serra vs St-Pierre 2 (04/19/08) - Montreal, Quebec, Canada (Bell Centre)
Main Card:
Welterweight Championship: Matt Serra (c) vs. Georges St. Pierre
Travis Lutter Vs. Rich Franklin
Nate Quarry Vs. Kalib Starnes
Charles McCarthy Vs. Michael Bisping
Mark Bocek Vs. Mac Danzig

Preliminary card:
Alan Belcher vs. Jason Day
Ed Herman vs. Demian Maia
Joe Doerksen vs. Jason MacDonald
Rich Clementi vs. Sam Stout
Brad Morris vs. Cain Velasquez
Jonathan Goulet vs. Kuniyoshi Hironaka (televised)


UFC 84: Ill Will (05/24/08) - Las Vegas (MGM Grand Garden Arena)
Main Card:
Lightweight Championship: B.J. Penn vs. Sean Sherk
Keith Jardine vs. Wanderlei Silva
Wilson Gouveia vs. Goran Reljic
Lyoto Machida vs. Tito Ortiz
Thiago Silva vs. Antonio Mendes

Preliminary card:
Kazuhiro Nakamura vs. Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou (televised)
Rousimar Palhares vs. Ivan Salaverry (televised)
John Koppenhaver vs. Yoshiyuki Yoshida (televised)
Rich Clementi vs. Terry Etim
Dong-Hyun Kim vs. Jason Tan
Shane Carwin vs. Christian Wellisch (televised)


UFC 85: Bedlam (06/07/08) - London (O2 Arena)
Main Card:
Thiago Alves vs. Matt Hughes
Michael Bisping vs. Jason Day
Marcus Davis vs. Mike Swick
Thales Leites vs. Nate Marquardt
Brandon Vera vs. Fabricio Werdum

Preliminary card:
Martin Kampmann vs. Jorge Rivera
Thiago Tavares vs. Matt Wiman
Luiz Cane vs. Jason Lambert
Roan Carneiro vs. Kevin Burns
Jess Liaudin vs. Paul Taylor
Antoni Hardonk vs. Eddie Sanchez


UFC Ultimate Fighter 7 Finale (6/21/08) – Las Vegas, NV (The Pearl at the Palms)
Kendall Grove vs. Evan Tanner
Luigi Fioravanti vs. Diego Sanchez
Finalist #1 vs. Finalist #2
Spencer Fisher vs. Jeremy Stephens
Jeremy Horn vs. Dean Lister
Josh Burkman vs. Dustin Hazelett
Marvin Eastman vs. Drew McFedries
Alessio Sakara vs. Rob Yundt
Matt Arroyo vs. TBA


UFC 86: Jackson vs. Griffin (07/05/08) - Las Vegas, NV (Mandalay Bay Events Center)
Main Card:
UFC Light Heavyweight Championship: Quinton Jackson vs. Forrest Griffin
Ricardo Almeida vs. Patrick Cote
Joe Stevenson vs. Gleison Tibau
Josh Koscheck vs. Chris Lytle

Preliminary card:
Marcus Aurelio vs. Tyson Griffin
Jorge Gurgel vs. Cole Miller
Melvin Guillard vs. Dennis Siver
Justin Bucholz vs. Corey Hill
Steve Bruno vs. Chris Wilson
Jared Rollins vs. Ben Saunders


UFC 87: Seek and Destroy (08/09/08) - Minneapolis, MN (Target Center)
Welterweight Championship:Georges St. Pierre vs. Jon Fitch
Brock Lesnar vs. Heath Herring
Kenny Florian vs. Roger Huerta
Mac Danzig vs. Clay Guida
Dan Evensen vs. Cheick Kongo
Frankie Edgar vs. TBA
Rob Emerson vs. Manny Gamburyan
Steve Bruno vs. Chris Wilson

UFC 88: (09/06/08) - Atlanta, Ga. (Phillips Arena)
Tim Boetsch vs. James Lee

UFC Fight Night 14 (09/14/08) - TBD (TBD)
Houston Alexander vs. Eric Schafer
Josh Neer vs. TBA

*rumoured

enjoy.

I'll try to keep this updated.

[Zombie]

Wow, way tooooo many PPV's in August and Sept! While it's great, but I hope they don't burn out or over do it that people get tired of it. Also being in the same venue's? They should travel to different places like come here to NM. Although I guess the 9/8 PPV will be free on Spike which is going to suck. I hate when Spike shows it. Too many commercials and no HD.

If the local sports bar is showing the live PPV event at 1pm I'll go to that instead of waiting for it to come on Spike. The last one I went to that showed at 1pm (my time) it was kinda nice. Hardly anyone there, got beer's/food fast. Not all crowded standing room only like it usually gets, and was able to hear the PPV. So I'd do that again. I was going to go to the last PPV but because it would have been packed I stayed and ordered it. Nothing beats being in your own home relaxed.

[Toejam]

Credit: Dave Meltzer

Sean Sherk tested positive for Nandralone (Decadurabolin) in his 7/7 defense of his UFC world lightweight title match against Hermes Franca.

Loretta Hunt reported on Fight Network radio that Greg Nelson has indicated Sherk will challenge the test result.

Because the fight was in California, and not Nevada, the commission doesn't have the power to overturn the result of the match.

UFC has not yet made a statement regarding the test result. Sherk has 30 days to request a hearing. If he fails to successfully appeal the test result, one would think UFC would have little choice but to strip him of his championship.

[D-Lo]

Sherk didn't mention taking nandralone on UFC all access = )

[Geddy Peart]

I knew there was more to his muscle mass and tone than he led on. Frankly, I'm not surprised.

Also Hermes Franca tested positive for roids as well:

MMAWeekly:

This statement was provided to MMAWeekly on behalf of Hermes Franca to address his positive test for the anabolic steroid Drostanolone, as reported by the California State Athletic Commission after Franca's bout with Sean Sherk at UFC 73:


"In the next few days, the results from the California Commission will be released. The tests will show that I had a "banned substance" in my system.

I would like to apologize to my fans, the UFC, my students and family. I offer only an explanation and not an excuse. I made a decision during a difficult time in my training for the fight that I regret.

About 8 weeks out from the fight, I badly injured my ankle during a training session. For the following week I had rested it, rehabbed it and tried to work around the injury. It was obvious that I could not train as required.

I contacted the UFC and explained my injury and how I could not possibly train to the level I thought I would need in order to be properly prepared for my fight. I asked the UFC if we could push the fight out to the following UFC with the chance that it could happen. They explained that they could not do that and that the card had been set and it isnt as easy as just moving around a fight. I totally understood their position. They asked me to keep them informed should I not be able to fight.

I had not fought for 5 months. Fighting is literally how I put food on my wife and childs table and how I pay my bills. As a fighter though, even at this level, I live a simple life and I literally live from fight to fight. Not getting a paycheck for another few months and losing my chance to fight Sean for the title was overpowering. Fighting is the life I chose and I love it.

As a lightweight fighter, our purses are comparatively
small. The public sees the payouts. As lightweights, we do not pull down the money anything near the bigger guys. Its just the way it is. I think Sean fought and defended his title for less than $30,000. Its no ones fault, its just the market. I love the sport, I love the people in the
sport.

At this point I was desperate and needed anything I could to get my injury as close to healing as possible and be able to recover from the daily training regimen I was going through. I made the shortsighted choice to hopefully accelerate the healing process and allow me to keep training. Under the pressure of literally not being able to pay next months bills I made a choice. I had to fight and did whatever I could to do so.

I hope my fans, students, the UFC and the public accept my
sincere apology. Whatever punishment is dictated by the California Athletic Commission I will understand. I would like to get through this very difficult time and the times ahead and get back to fighting. All the best to my fans and much thanks to my family and friends that continue to support me during these times.

Hermes Franca "


**Franca tested positive to Drostanolone. He has been fined $2500 and suspended through his licensing year which is July 5, 2008.

[D-Lo]

Sherk is HUGE in person. I'm mean, he's short but he definatley looks like he's been taking more than just animal pak 2.

They've been jumping all over this on the sherdog forums with the trolls. A lot of people dislike Sherk's fighting style so I've been reading a lot of rejoicing.

[Denzil]

Updated the events post above.

[Denzil]

Joe Lauzon works the internet. Joe first posted this on August 13, 2007

Joe Lauzon vs Karo at UFC78

there have been rumors flying around about my next fight, and who it will be against. I posted in a Tito Ortiz (http://titoortiz.com/) chat room that I would be fighting Karo Parisyan, and the rumors made it over to MMA.tv (http://mma.tv/) and other major MMA websites. Everyone has been asking about it... from kids running up to the me in a movie theatre to guys asking my trainers at their jobs. I couldn't comment on it until now.

I indeed will be fighting Karo Parisyan at UFC78. Following in the steps of BJ Penn... I took on the "baby" nickname... I will be training in Hawaii... and now I will be fighting at 170 pounds in the Welterweight division. Part of the reason for moving to Hawaii is to not only work on my MMA training, but also to study under BJ in Burrito Consumption to help get my weight up.

All I can say to Karo is: "That Judo sh*t ain't gonna work on me!" I have been doing some research (http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=QySn1SJcFeQ), and apparently Karo learned quite a bit of his Judo and striking from Reggie Warren Jr (http://www.myspace.com/reggiewarrenjr). I have contacted Reggie, and he has agreed to help me train for Karo as well. The only thing he asked in exchange was that I order one of his shirts (http://reggiewarren.com/cart_holder.html) (as seen to the left). Well I placed my order over the weekend, so Karo is in trouble.

Another exciting aspect of the fight, is that the UFC has secured the Easter Bunny as a special guest referee, and the Kool Aid Man will be working my corner between rounds to keep me hydrated.

I appreciate the support from everyone... be sure to check out my myspace (http://myspace.com/lauzonrsd) and add me as a friend.

People on this wrestling and mma website that i visit, posted this thinking that Joe was really taking on Karo. Needless to say they didn't read the full article. ;)

Joe then had to post this:

Are you serious?

I said that I was going to fight Karo... but lets look at some other details...


Karo is in a higher weight class, when I am on the small side for my weight class as is.
Karo is not just any welterweight, but a great welterweight.
I said I was training under Reggie Warren.
I said the EASTER BUNNY would be the special guest referee.
I said the KOOL-AID MAN would be in my corner.


And you STILL think it wasn't a joke? Relax... Karo and I will NOT be fighting anytime soon. Some people need to read things FULLY as opposed to reading the first two lines of something and running with it.

I'm sticking to lightweight.

I know that Meltzer, Keller or Alvarez didn't fall for it but seeing many stupid MMA fans make a fool of themselves made me laugh.

[GameOver]

UFC Inks Wanderlei Silva; Brazilian Legend set for December Return

It’s been a deal years in the making, but finally, one of mixed martial arts’ unquestioned greats – former PRIDE Champion Wanderlei Silva - will be returning to the Ultimate Fighting Championship’s Octagon this December for the first time in over seven years to take on the best 205-pound fighters in the world.

“Many fighters have a dream of fighting for the UFC, and as a champion for six years in Japan, my dream has always been to have the UFC belt,” said Silva. “Today, I’m one step closer to this goal.”

“As crazy as this sounds, this is the pinnacle of my seven year career in this company,” said UFC President Dana White. “I’m so excited to have this guy under contract. Hegrabbed my arm and looked me in the eyes like one of his pre-fight staredowns and he said ‘I’m gonna fight so good for you, you’re gonna see the best fights ever from Wanderlei Silva.’”

The signing of Silva, which took place in the Zuffa offices in Las Vegas Friday afternoon, is the culmination of years of pursuit and hard work by White, who weathered a series of ups and downs to get the Brazilian bomber in the UFC, where potential matchups with the likes of former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Chuck Liddell await.

The 31-year old Silva, known by fight fans as “The Axe Murderer” for his ultra-aggressive style and finishing ability, began his career almost 11 years ago in his native Brazil, fighting in Vale Tudo bouts that pushed him to the
ad
limit as he honed the skills that would soon make him one of the most feared fighters on the planet.

In 1998, Silva would make his UFC debut against Vitor Belfort, and he would fight two more times in the Octagon (including a 2000 bout against Tito Ortiz).

But it was in the PRIDE organization that the legend of Silva was truly born, and after his debut in 1999, he met great success by winning the organization’s middleweight championship and defeating the likes of current UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Quinton Jackson (twice), Dan Henderson, Kazushi Sakuraba (three times), Ricardo Arona, Hidehiko Yoshida, and Kazuyuki Fujita, while engaging in some of the most memorable fights in MMA history.

“This guy is a real fighter,” said White. “He reminds me of Chuck Liddell, and he’s the kind of fighter that all fight fans love to see fight. He’s a gunslinger. He will get in harm’s way to inflict damage and pain. This guy comes out like a speeding train and never stops. He goes for the finish, he likes to knock people out, and I just think he’s going to bring so much excitement to the UFC, I feel like I’m going to jump out of my skin.”

Well-rested after his February PRIDE fight against Dan Henderson, Silva (31-7-1) now looks forward to the next chapter in his career in the UFC.

“I’m gonna work hard to give a great show for the fans and I want to thank God for this opportunity,” said Silva, who counts the key elements of his style as raw aggression, emotion, and intensity.

He also wants to send a message to prospective foes.

“I want to issue a warning to the other fighters out there: you need to train hard, because “The Axe Murderer” is here.”

A date and opponent for Silva’s return will be announced at a later date.


http://www.ufc.com/index.cfm?fa=news.detail&gid=7253

[Denzil]

I hope Wanderlei Silva has got over getting KO'd by Cro Cop and Henderson. Still i can't wait to see him against Chuck Liddell (If he beats Keith Jardine).

[Zombie]

Even though I like Jardine and also because he's from here (Albuquerque NM) I'm still going for Liddell because I've liked hime before Jardine and more of a fan of Chuck. I now really want him to win to hopefully see Liddell face Silva. However, with how things have gone this year, it's really unpredictable now on who's going to come out the winner.

[Geddy Peart]

Some think Dana's having Chuck fight Jardine to give The Iceman an "easy" win to regain his confidence.

If that's true (and I wouldn't put it past Dana), then we may be in for another shocking win. Remember Gonzaga was originally given to Cro Cop as an "easy" win.

[Denzil]

I think that Wanderlei should have a fight against an "easy" fighter as well just to see how he will do in the UFC. Hot shotting him to a fight against Chuck may be a mistake.

[Geddy Peart]

I don't know, after two big losses I think Wandi's gonna be very hungry and very aggressive. He's also been training with Randy Couture.

But since Chuck is getting a "warm up" fight in Jardine, it's only fair that Wandi gets one as well.

But then again Dana White is your typical promoter who has his favorite fighters.

[D-Lo]

If Wand and Chuck are going to fight, I'd like it to happen a.s.a.p. Wandy has taken too many beatings and doesn't have many fights left in him IMO (like Sakuraba). Chuck aint getting any younger. 2 or 3 years ago this fight would have been bigger than Cro Cop vs Fedor. It still might be, who knows.

Jardine is being fed to Chuck to get the hype into the Chuck/Wandy fight. I'd rather not see Wand have a warm up unless his opponent completely sucks. Too risky if it's a good opponent, might jeopardize the hype if Wand is injured or loses.

[Denzil]

www.f4wonline.com

Brock Lesnar confirmed that he will be at UFC on Saturday night. He did an interview with MMA Weekly yesterday saying he wanted a deal now for the winner of Gonzaga vs. Couture.

[Geddy Peart]

www.f4wonline.com


Screw Lesnar, who does he think he is? He's only had one pro MMA fight and it was against a fighter with a 1-5 record. He needs to prove himself before he deserves a shot at anything.

Seriously, just look at his MMA history so far:

-Beat a "can" fighter as his first fight.

-Was choked out by a 170 lb. Matt Hughes during a sparring session.

Brock needs to remove his head from his ass.

[Denzil]

Brock is moving wayyyy too fast IMO. He would get humbled by Gonzaga or Couture at the moment. Even with Brock's great wrestling he needs more training and more fight experience. He hasn't even fought a proper fight yet, i would like to see him go the distance against an experienced fighter and see how he handles it.

I think he should actually face Choi Hong-man (like he was supposed to) and see how he gets on. Hong-man is a much better opponent for him lots of wins in K-1 fights and won his first MMA fight also.

Then the next test would be Siala-Mou "Mighty Mo" Siligia who is coming off a win against Ruben Villareal (Warpath). Paul Buentello would also be a good match up for Brock as well. If he wins those fights, that would be 3 good kickboxers he has went through. Hopefully they would test him and he wouldn't just KO them quickly.

Can't think of anyone well versed in BJJ (and not in the UFC) to face him at the moment although i do remember Antonio Silva fighting in the debut EliteXC show so maybe he can face Brock in his 4th MMA fight instead of Buentello.

If he gets through those two/three/four fights then onto the UFC.

First fight against Heath Herring or Jake O'Brien. Then if he wins that fight decisively then onto a title shot. Although they could match him up against a Tim Sylvia/Brandon Vera/Andrei Arlovski in a winner gets a title shot match. As two fights in the UFC then title shot sounds a bit better.

That is how i would book Brock getting to the UFC and then getting a title shot. Although i know that it would be a long hard road but in the end it would be in Brock's best interests not to sign with UFC at the moment.

[D-Lo]

Brock is nobody in the MMA world. There are idiots that have him beating Fedor. He will never be champ.

[Geddy Peart]

He's completely delusional if he thinks the UFC is desperate to sign him.

[Erik]

I actually want to see Lesnar fight Couture or Gonzaga just to see him beaten and embarrassed. That should bring him back down to Earth.

[Geddy Peart]

I say put him up against Sylvia and see how he does against a fighter who has a better reach advantage and sprawl ability.

[Denzil]

Do you want me to put the results of the events that have passed in my post above?

I can do so starting from UFC 74.

[Zombie]

Do you want me to put the results of the events that have passed in my post above?

I can do so starting from UFC 74.

I started a thread about PPV's & Event's only, so that way we could post about our thought's on the event's without having to use spoilers as I listed it in the title page. That way it just kind of keeps things organized. Figured shouldn't be an issue since WWE get's a thread for each PPV that they have and our's just goes by numbers but just easier so that way we don't have to put spoilers and we pretty much know which PPV/Event we're talking about.

I ment to post in there about the last PPV. Just kind of forgot to.

But anyways, can try using this...

http://www.f13-community.co.uk/board/showthread.php?t=885

[Geddy Peart]

FEDOR NEGOTIATIONS GOING DOWN TO THE WIRE [UPDATE]
Tuesday, September 04, 2007 - by Ken Pishna - MMAWeekly.com

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------



The Ultimate Fighting Championship has taken over the worldwide mixed martial arts landscape, signing a majority of the premier fighters in the sport. But there are still a few notable fighters out there that have yet to call the UFC, or anyone else for that matter, home. Chief among them is Fedor Emelianenko, nearly universally regarded as the #1 heavyweight fighter in the world.

That situation isn’t likely to remain so for much longer though, as speculation has swirled around Fedor’s contract status, or lack thereof, as of late. The hot rumor over the past few days has been that he has inked a deal with the UFC.

Not so says Reed Wallace, President of White Chocolate Management, who represents Fedor Emelianenko in the United States.

[UPDATE] “Fedor has not signed anything [as of Tuesday afternoon],” Wallace informed MMAWeekly. “He’s going to do something soon. They can’t negotiate forever.”

It’s quite obvious that the UFC would have to be the leading candidate for Fedor’s services, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t still other suitors vying for the world’s top heavyweight.

Fedor’s managers, Vadim Finkelstein and Apy Echteld, met with the UFC late last week, but a signed contract has yet to materialize. “UFC discussions went very well according to Apy,” said Wallace in reference to the meeting. Initially it seemed the UFC was unwilling to make any modifications to their contract, but it now appears there has been some movement.

“I can say that they are very close to a deal, but some last minute players have stepped up as well,” he said.

Speaking of his opinion on the interests of Fedor, Wallace continued, “I’d be happy for him to go to the UFC. He would get great exposure there. The world need’s to see Fedor fight. I get excited when I watch him. He’s the greatest. I’d just love to see him fight.”

[UPDATE] Wallace confirmed, however, that there are at least two other major players vying for Fedor. One of those is Mark Cuban, billionaire owner of the National Basketball Association Dallas Mavericks and the HDNet television network. Upon discussions with Echteld, Wallace verified that the other is an undisclosed party that has already presented a major competing offer to Fedor’s management.

Wallace indicated that he would be approaching Fedor’s management with an offer from Cuban’s group this weekend, assuming that he does not sign with the UFC or elsewhere prior.

Regardless of his contract status, Wallace did mention that Fedor will attend UFC 75 in London on Saturday, but don’t assume that his attendance is indicative of the UFC winning out amongst other suitors.

Wallace said that Fedor recently signed a sponsorship deal with Affliction, makers of the popular clothing line, and will be in attendance this weekend, along with UFC Heavyweight Champion Randy Couture, for promotional purposes.




--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MMAWeekly.com
http://www.mmaweekly.com/


My prediction:

Randy vs. Fedor before the year is over.

[D-Lo]

Props to Dana White if he can pull this one off. Fedor is unlike every other fighter out there, as both a fighter and a person.

Really, if Dana makes this happen, then he has accomplished as much as any promoter ever will or ever could in regards to MMA. He brought the UFC back from the dead and made it mainstream to boot. Then he kills some of the little orgs that were gaining momentum. Then he suprises everyone and gets ahold of Pride, which seemed completely impossible a year ago.

There is only one major thing left to do, but it's also one of the most difficult...and that is to sign the greatest fighter the world has ever seen. Easier said than done because Fedor wants to continue to compete in Sambo once a year, which is a huge conflict of interest. Top that with a couple eccentric billionaires wanting to get in on MMA and it's no easy task.

Regardless of what the article says, Fedor attending the upcoming UFC is a very good sign.

[Zombie]

I figured I would post in this thread about this issue I've been having, and talking to other's about. It's gotten more popular as well especially due to this last weekends PPV.

The scoring system -

I think the scoring system used in the UFC is HORRIBLE and has really shown the last few PPV's how bad it is. I think also now that more and more fighters are evolving their training, skills, and what not it needs to be revamped and repaired BIG TIME! The commentators made an interesting point during this last PPV on how are the judges looking at it and or scoring some of these matches? Are people getting scored for "trying" to do a submission, being able to "defend" from it, getting out of the submission, what about when the submission is locked on? Do they score so much for how long they have it? What if it does get broken? Also to punching/striking, shooting for a take-down, getting a takedown, getting up from a takedown and or reversing it???

With more and more fights going to the judges decision and not because they do nothing to win the fight, but more both fighters are so good and both are able to defned and or counter the other person and just goes back and forth.

Also the person on the ground/bottom, I don't think that make's them the automatic "weaker" guy and or should be losing or "not in controll". Alot of fighters will be more comfortable with working off their back instead of being on top. This isn't wrestling so your not giving away back points and or being pinned for the win, so I think it doesn't matter who's on top or bottom its what each person does within their position.

Maybe this should be scored more like an "amature" wrestling match and not a boxing system. It should go for either person also. Kind of like in wrestling for example, you take someone down and have control you get 2 pts. Well if the other person is able to escape, meaning he gets up and away then he get's 1 point, or if her reverses it then that's 2 points. Granted like I mentioned earlier, you can't give "back points", like when the top person turns the other guy over or is trying to pin him you get 2 points for so long holding them and then 3 points for holding them longer. So a 5 point wrestling move would be like a "head an arm" takedown because you take em down, and majority of the time it ends in a pinning situation if the guy doesn't "roll through" or slips out of it. Some may not know what I just said but I'm sure alot of you will understand what I just said and know exactly what I mean.

I really noticed this in Diego's match. Granted I'm a fan of Diego and he's like my 2nd favorite fighter so I'm going to be a little more on his side sometimes, but I thought there was time's that even though he was on the bottom he was doing MORE then John Fitch was and he was on top. I'm not the only one who thought that as well, people who've I talked to that saw it thought the same thing, even people on the radio show this morning was mentioning this. Also one of the judges thought that also for giving Diego the fight in his view.

I may need to watch it again, but I thought Fitch was mainly just laying on top of Diego trying to keep Diego in control instead of trying to go for a submission and or ko/tko. There was times he would throw a punch here and there but Diego was punching, elbowing, going for a kamura, trying a triangle choke, going for the takedowns, trying to get on top a little. Granted he stayed on the bottom most of the time but maybe that's what he was trying to do isntead of wasting so much energy trying to push off a guy that was out weighing him by about 10-15 lbs maybe even more who knows? Also, I think that was a perfect match to show that a guy on the bottom can be doing more then the guy on top.

So as you can see, MMA needs a different and new scoring system. THis isn't boxing and I think scoring that way is unfair to both fighters and it also limits fights IMO. It makes it seem like the best way to win is to keep it standing and trying to KO the guy. Granted that's going to be a "for sure win", but I think a technical fighter would be alot more technical if he knew he could win without trying to ko/tko the other guy. I know you can win by submission as well, but I've noticed that alot of people who's on the bottom are the one's that get the submission, unless of course the guy on top can take the back or get's a kamura and what not, but alot of submissions comes from being on the bottom. Hell, Shamrock is another perfect example of somone that would perfer to work from the bottom and goes for a submission that way.

If they were to do this and change things around, it would definitely shake up the MMA world and we would see alot more technical fighting and that will also show some of these guy's best style vs always trying to keep it standing and striking.

What are your thoughts or ways of scoring? I'll post my ideas later once I get them all worked out, but for example would be like -

2-3 pts for getting the submission locked in depending how long (kind of like back points.)

1-2 points for taking someone down
1/2 - 1 point for getting out of the submission / breaking the hold
1/2 -1 point for successfully defending the takedown (something like that would be like how Liddell sprawls and pushes away and the other guy and gets up and then they're both standing again)

So stuff like that but still tweaking and all. Also instead of having 3 judges scoring it, it would be the ref to call out the points like in amature wrestling since he could see better, then the 3 judges present their score that they got to see if they match eachother and or if there is a dispute? Or the ref calls points or like awards them and you have 1-2 people tracking that, plus the 3 judges scoring themselves from what they can see and that matches with what the ref called?

It's definitely something that can't be implemented overnight or the next month but it's something that should be looked into and considered.

[D-Lo]

Couldn't agree more about the need to revamp the scoring system.

I'd like the definition of 'octagon control' to be crystal clear.

Near submissions should count, as should all aspects of the ground game. Right now takedowns are the only thing that counts which is completely ridiculous. Takedowns count for too much to boot. They should use the same set of rules that is used in NoGi comps.

It'd be nice to see a system in place where your actual weight is factored into the scoring. Obviously everyone cuts weight, which is fine. But the guy that is giving up 12-15 lbs should have an incentive in place. So say they do the normal weigh in, but then they are weighed in 15 mins before the fight so you have their true weight at that point. If there is a 10 lbs or more descrepency the lighter guy should have an advantage scoring-wise.
I know that wouldn't happen but I'd still like to see it.

[Denzil]

I bet everyone is wondering what Andrei Arlovski is up to now. With no fights scheduled in the near future due to his contract being renegotiated, he appeared on the Jerry Springer show as a "Celebrity Guest Bouncer" last week.

Here is the video: http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=r4qyLrwgM0c

(bad quality but it will do until a better quality version surfaces)

[Geddy Peart]

Wow.

I remember Andrei being billed as one of the most dangerous heavyweights, but since he lost to Tim it's like he slowy fell off the face of the planet.

[Denzil]

His last fight was that boring decision win against former Pride fighter Fabricio Werdum.

No wonder they haven't been used by the UFC since then. That fight sucked!

[Zombie]

Fedor will NOT be in the UFC... At least not anytime soon... Kind of wonder if he's afraid he'd get beaten being no Pride fighter who'd crossed over is doing well except Rampage or just thought he had a better deal with M1 whom I've never heard of so he's not going to get the recgonition he deserves.

http://thefightnetwork.com/news_detail.php?nid=5076

FEDOR COMMITS TO M-1
PRIDE Heavyweight Champion To Headline First Show Under New Ownership


By Loretta Hunt (loretta@thefightnetwork.com (loretta@thefightnetwork.com))

PRIDE heavyweight champion Fedor Emelianenko has committed exclusively to the new ownership of M-1 Mix-Fight Championship, which has been purchased outright by an undisclosed American entertainment-related company, according to a source close to the deal who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

Established in 1997, the St. Petersburg-based M-1 held over 30 events under the ownership of Russian businessman Vadim Finkelstein, also the long-time manager of the much-sought-after Emelianenko. Finkelstein is also the proprietor of the Red Devil Sports Club, a facility and team that houses numerous Russian fighters, including PRIDE veteran Roman Zentsov and former UFC middleweight Andrei Semenov.

The source confirmed the new ownership has infused a substantial amount of capital into the organization. Finkelstein and others will stay on to assist in running the company, which will continue to promote under a variation of the M-1 name. The new M-1 will take more of a global stance, and Emelianenko (26-1) will headline its inaugural event as early as January or February, possibly in the U.S., the source said.
On March 27, Ultimate Fighting Championship majority owners Lorenzo and Frank Fertitta bought the assets of PRIDE, only to discover Emelianenko had previously signed a non-exclusive, non-transferable contract with its former owners, Dream Stage Entertainment.

As late as September, UFC president Dana White had insisted a deal with Emelianenko was imminent, though repeated negotiations between Finkelstein, colleague Apy Echteld and the Las Vegas outlet could not produce an agreement to bring the Stary Oskol resident to the famed Octagon. A major point of contention was White’s insistence Emelianenko sign an exclusive contract with the American promotion, which would exclude Emelianenko’s participation in Sambo competitions. Emelianenko is a three-time World Combat Sambo champion and ambassador for the sport in his homeland.

Undefeated in 24 fights (including one no contest), Emelianenko is widely received as the world’s top pound-for-pound fighter. The 31-year-old former Army firefighter rose to the top of PRIDE’s ranks by besting standouts like Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira (30-4-1) and Mirko “Cro Cop” Filipovic (22-6-2). Emelianenko submitted 2000 Olympic Greco-Roman silver medallist Matt Lindland (20-5) at Bodog Fight “Clash of the Nations” on April 14 in St. Petersburg, Russia. He has not competed since.

A formal announcement of the purchase, as well as plans for the new organization’s first event, is expected by the end of this month.

POSTED -- 10/10/07

[Geddy Peart]

Randy vs. Fedor is crumbling before my very eyes. Nooooooooooo!

ADDED:


RANDY QUITS UFC OVER FEDOR/M-1 SIGNING!!!

from: http://www.thefightnetwork.com/news_detail.php?nid=5085

COUTURE QUITS UFC


MMA Icon Walks Away From Promotion In Stunning Move

By Brian Knapp

At the height of its power and popularity, the Ultimate Fighting Championship today lost the man many recognize as the face of mixed martial arts. UFC heavyweight champion Randy Couture announced his resignation from the Las Vegas-based promotion, leaving two contracted fights, his job as an on-air analyst and his heavyweight crown on the table.

In South Africa shooting scenes for his lead role in the upcoming feature film “The Scorpion King – Rise of the Akkadian,” Couture made the announcement official in a letter to UFC president Dana White. The UFC’s inability to land PRIDE heavyweight champion Fedor Emelianenko played a prominent role in the decision to walk away, according to Couture.

“I appreciate this opportunity the sport of MMA and the UFC has given me,” the UFC Hall-of-Famer said. “However, I’m tired of swimming upstream at this stage with the management of the UFC. It only makes sense at this point in my career to fight Fedor Emelianenko, and since he’s now signed with another organization, I feel like it’s time to resign and focus on my other endeavors.”

His abrupt departure deals a significant blow to the world’s most visible MMA organization. Couture was not only a beloved competitor – White once called him “the greatest fighter in UFC history” – but also a revered spokesman for a company that had long struggled to gain mainstream acceptance.

“Randy’s contract was on a fight-by-fight basis, and that’s the way he said he was always going to take it – fight by fight,” said Matt Walker, Couture’s agent at The Gersh Agency. “His acting career is accelerating at an astronomical rate, and without the support he felt some of his peers were receiving in the fight business, this was the logical choice.”

A three-time All-American wrestler at Oklahoma State University, Couture won four national championships in Greco-Roman wrestling and made four attempts at qualifying for the Olympics. He made his MMA debut at UFC 13 on May 13, 1997, where, at age 33, he won a heavyweight tournament, defeating Tony Halme and Steven Graham on the same night. Just seven months later, he toppled famed kickboxer Maurice Smith in Yokohama, Japan to win the UFC heavyweight crown for the first time.

Over the course of the next decade, Couture emerged as one of the most decorated mixed martial artists in history. The UFC’s only six-time champion, he captured the heavyweight belt three times, the light heavyweight title twice and an interim light heavyweight title, as well. Couture remains the only man to win UFC championships in two weight classes.

His run through the promotion included a memorable trilogy with light heavyweight rival Chuck Liddell, the only opponent to beat Couture twice. Following his third bout with Liddell in February 2006, Couture announced his first retirement.

As 2007 dawned, his desire to compete returned, and a four-fight contract with the UFC – which included the opportunity to fight Tim Sylvia for the heavyweight strap at UFC 68 in March – was presented to Couture. He accepted, and the wheels for an historic comeback were set in motion.

Couture floored Sylvia with an overhand right seconds into the bout and punished the 6-foot-8 giant over five rounds. Playing to chants of “Randy!” he regained the heavyweight title for an unprecedented third time in front of 19,049 fans at the Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio. Five months later, at the age of 44, he defeated rising contender Gabriel Gonzaga at UFC 74, stopping the young Brazilian by third-round TKO despite suffering a broken left arm. It would be his final appearance in the Octagon.

Couture (16-8) leaves behind an unrivaled legacy in the sport. Fifteen of his 24 career bouts were title fights, and he bested six former UFC champions – Liddell, Vitor Belfort, Tito Ortiz and Sylvia among them. Always willing to meet a challenge, Couture consistently tested himself against the world’s premier fighters. The 19 men he fought (he squared off with Pedro Rizzo twice and Liddell and Belfort three times each) hold 357 victories between them.



Nooooooooooooo!

[Denzil]

This fucking sucks.
ADDED:
Dana White has released a statement on www.ufc.tv:

10/11/2007

STATEMENT FROM DANA WHITE, UFC PRESIDENT, REGARDING COUTURE

“I’m not surprised at all by Randy’s decision. I talked to Randy several weeks ago and he said that if he couldn’t fight Fedor, then he has nothing left to prove in the sport of mixed martial arts.

He has been doing a lot of acting, and I know he is in South Africa right now filming a movie. I think it’s a great move for Randy’s acting career to retire from fighting while he is on top.

As we all know, Randy retired before. The landscape in MMA changes every day. So when he is ready to come out of retirement again, he is still under contract with me, and I’m ready to promote him.”

[Geddy Peart]

I wonder if Randy will follow Fedor to M-1?

[D-Lo]

I wonder if Randy will follow Fedor to M-1?

It's a very big possibility.

I was more interested in seeing Fedor fight in the octagon, but if a few HW's defect to M-1 things could get interesting. I could see Vera and Cro Cop defecting in time.

[Geddy Peart]

RANDY LEFT DUE TO DISRESPECT ON UFC'S PART:

http://www.sherdog.com/news/news.asp?n_id=9455

Thursday, October 11, 2007
by Josh Gross (joshg@sherdog.com)

Randy Couture (Pictures), the face of the Ultimate Fighting Championship and one of mixed martial arts most revered fighters, notified the UFC via fax from South Africa at 11 o'clock Thursday morning that he has chosen to resign from the UFC, "The Natural" confirmed with Sherdog.com.

"I sent the letter of resignation to the UFC today, resigning not only from my position in the company as a commentator and as an ambassador, but also as the heavyweight champion," Couture said over the phone from South Africa, where he is currently filming a movie.

"The motivation for the decision is two-fold," he continued. "I know Fedor (Emelianenko) just signed with another organization and that's the only real fight that makes sense for me at 44 years old as the heavyweight champion of the UFC. That's the fight I wanted and if that can't happen it doesn't make sense for me to compete with all these other guys. And then obviously that's not going to happen now. And, two, I'm tired of being taken advantage of, played as the nice guy and basically swimming against the current with the management of the UFC. I have a lot of other things going on in my life that I'm doing just fine with. I don't need the problems. I don't feel like I get the respect I deserve from the organization, and that's motivation No. 2 for the letter of resignation that was sent today."

Couture (16-8) is the only fighter in UFC history to hold belts in two weight divisions. The current UFC heavyweight champion, he recaptured the belt in March by coming out of retirement to out-point Tim Sylvia (Pictures). Couture defended the title in August, stopping challenger Gabriel Gonzaga (Pictures) in the third round.

The Sylvia win came after a year away from the sport after Couture suffered the second of two knockouts to then UFC light heavyweight champion Chuck Liddell (Pictures). Couture won the first bout in the trilogy by capturing an interim UFC light heavyweight title in June of 2003, stopping Liddell in the third period.

Couture's ledger in the UFC reads like a who's who. "The Natural" first captured UFC heavyweight gold against Maurice Smith (Pictures) in 1997 before doing it for the third time against Sylvia in 2007.

A day after news broke that Fedor Emelianenko (Pictures), the widely regarded top heavyweight in the sport, had apparently declined to sign with the UFC, Couture submitted his resignation.

"I want that fight and would have waited if the fight was offered to me," Couture said. "Knowing what they offered him, I would have made demands to get paid equally or better than him as the champion. Whether or not those would have been met is another question."

"I'm not surprised at all by Randy's decision," UFC president Dana White said in a statement published on UFC.com. "I talked to Randy several weeks ago and he said that if he couldn't fight Fedor, then he has nothing left to prove in the sport of mixed martial arts."

According to Couture, nine months remain on his current UFC deal. However, White said Couture "is still under contract with me, and I'm ready to promote him" if he chooses to fight again."

"As we all know, Randy retired before," White said. "The landscape in MMA changes every day."

Until he is in a position to fight Emelianenko, said Couture, he will concentrate on acting, franchising Xtreme Couture training facilities, and expanding the Xtreme Couture clothing line.

His success outside the ring is proof of his success inside the Octagon. But Couture said it was a lack of respect by the UFC, in particular its president Dana White, that led him to resigning.

"I think the final straw for me was meeting with Dana and Lorenzo (Fertitta, UFC co-owner) where they claimed I was the No. 2 paid athlete in the organization, which I know is a bold-faced lie," Couture said. Polling other athletes, said Couture, he learned that his compensation -- some $250,000 a fight with pay-per-view bonuses, according to the Couture camp -- was nowhere near what other top UFC fighters were making.

"All us athletes are all pretty tightly intertwined," he said. "You hear what other guys were paid signing bonuses and what other guys were paid on the record and off the record with bonuses. I've heard Chuck's numbers. Tito's numbers. Hughes' numbers. Quinton's numbers. Cro Cop, Wanderlei. I heard what they were offering Fedor, and it's insulting."

Couture's rocky history with the Zuffa-owned UFC began in 2001.

"I think what set us off on the wrong foot was that my management [at the time] wasn't willing to give up ancillary rights across the board with no option for some sort of compensation," said Couture, alluding to a reason cited by Emelianenko's representatives as to why the Russian did not end up with the UFC. "All the other athletes at that time were signing those contracts. That created a lot of animosity and got me pulled out of the Carmen Electra campaigns to promote the athletes and the sport and the video game and all that stuff."

Beyond the money, both Couture and his wife Kim stressed Thursday's resignation from the UFC was about respect. It's a move "The Natural" acknowledged could have far-reaching effects.

"Certainly there's personal motivation for resigning and taking a stand for myself," he said. "If it sets a precedence that down the road requires athletes to be treated better then that's the icing on the cake."

I don't blame him. And I'm not surprised Dana was screwing him over money-wise. Yes, he made the UFC what it is today, but he's still a snake in the grass promoter.

[D-Lo]

I have a ton of respect for Dana White, but his arrogance is clouding his judgement as of late. When you start taking things personally and try to impose your will out of sheer pride, you stop being a good businessman.

He should have swallowed his pride and allowed Fedor to do a non-exclusive contract, or even a one fight deal. Something. Couture was insulted by the lop-sided payrates in the UFC, that coupled with the fact that he won't be able to fight Fedor, created this mess.

Now you have two of the biggest names in MMA fighting outside of the UFC. If Chuck Liddell and Matt Hughes retire in '08 the UFC is in deep shit.

[Geddy Peart]

Dana's always been arrogant. He's your typical boxing promoter who knew a potential goldmine (UFC) when he saw it and ran with it. Not only that but he's very unprofessional with the way he carries himself during interviews/tv appearances.

Randy's not the only guy he was screwing over pay-wise. The UFC is worth 150-200 million yet some fighters are still paid less than 10k for Fight Night/PPVs.

[Geddy Peart]

Today at BJJ, my Professor announced that his Professor, Ricardo Almeida has signed a 6 fight deal with the UFC!

http://www.ricardoalmeida.com/myoffice/storeonline/whatsnew.aspx?orgId=12985


It's Official: Professor Almeida is Back in the UFC!

Yes! The ink is finally on paper! After negotiations with 5 different organizations, Prof. picked the ultimate one, an organization that will provide the opportunity for him to compete against the best Middleweight fighters in the world!

Mester Renzo Gracie's first Black Belt, Professor Ricardo Almeida is a UFC veteran (for those of you who don't follow the sport), and decided to retire from the MMA scene to focus on his Academy and students, and to dedicate as much time as possible to learning the Art of Jiu Jitsu.

As we know, RABJJ with over 400 students and undergoing expansion is the result of a lot of work, and could only be a possibility for him at the time by stepping away from the spotlight and focusing 100% in becoming a teacher.

Now, that goal has been reached and is moving forward, which allows Professor to go back to a place he never tought he would return to. The UFC. Being a competitor at heart, watching the sport evolve to the point that it is today, he couldn't help but decide to get back in there and learn as much as he can from this evolution, always challenging himself so we can all benefit from his learning experiences.

Professor has just signed a 6 fight contract with the Ultimate Fighting Championship, and according to him, it felt like he never left the sport. While speaking to Matchmaker and old friend Joe Silva, Prof. felt like he was never forgotten, furthermore, it felt as if they were waiting for this moment as much as he was . Now that he's in the UFC to stay, you guys are in for a treat!

He'll be fighting early 2008, and until then, there's no resting. We are moving next door, and there's so much work ahead of us. But that's another subject. Fot now, let's celebrate Professor Ricardo "Cachorrao" Almeida's return to the UFC!

Needless to say, all of us are excited.

[Denzil]

One of the hosts of a MMA radio show that i listen to regularly is eagerly awaiting his first fight back from his retirement. He says that we should expect big things from him.

Finally updated the UFC events calender on the first page.
ADDED:
A small news item about Brock

from www.wrestleview.com:

According to The Wrestling Observer, former WWE Champion Brock Lesnar, who just signed a two-year contract with the UFC, is looking to make his debut for the company on February 2 (during Super Bowl weekend). As reported earlier, Lesnar's signing with UFC was officially confirmed last night at UFC 77: Hostile Territory in Cincinnati, Ohio.

[Geddy Peart]

One of the hosts of a MMA radio show that i listen to regularly is eagerly awaiting his first fight back from his retirement. He says that we should expect big things from him.




I was talking with some of my coaches (who all train under Ricardo) today about his return to fighting and they said a fight against Rick Franklin would be a good match, but no one is sure if he could take Anderson Silva.

Ricardo's ground game is among the best and his stand up is good but I'm not sure if it's good enough for Silva. However, should he get Silva down, the fight will become very interesting.

[Special Killa B]

It will be interesting to see how well Brock Lesner does in the UFC, I'm looking forward to his first fight.

[Geddy Peart]

I don't question Brock's grappling ability. He's a 4 time, All American NCAA champoin and he's been training with the Gracies in submissions.

However, how good is his stand up and will he be able to take a punch?

[D-Lo]

I just saw on the local news that Din Thomas got busted for running unsanctioned MMA matches. That makes ATT and the sport of MMA look real good. :rolleyes:

[On a Pale Horse]

I don't question Brock's grappling ability. He's a 4 time, All American NCAA champoin and he's been training with the Gracies in submissions.

However, how good is his stand up and will he be able to take a punch?

I am sure he can take a punch well. All those years in WWE, I am sure he got hit hard a bunch of times. I know its all stunts and what not, but they still take their share of real/accidental hits.

[Geddy Peart]

I am sure he can take a punch well. All those years in WWE, I am sure he got hit hard a bunch of times. I know its all stunts and what not, but they still take their share of real/accidental hits.


It's also one of the reasons why he quit. He didn't like taking the occassional real punch.

[D-Lo]

I get the feeling Brock is one of those guys that hasn't really been chin checked by a pro. Aside form training with elite strikers, nothing is going to prepare you for being hit hard by a HW. Getting knee'd by a 200+ man is one of those things that makes you think twice about whether you wanna have a career in fighting.

[Geddy Peart]

That's why I'd like to see him fight Tim Sylvia. Brock has the aggression and explosiveness to keep a fast-paced fight, but Sylva has the reach advantage and a great jab/high kicks.

[D-Lo]

We've only seen a little of what Brock can do in MMA so it's hard to say for sure but I don't feel like he is ready for Sylvia. Sylvia has a way of making good guys look sloppy (look at the Monson, Arlovski ii & iii and Vera fights). Unfortunatley his stiffling fighting style also makes for boring fights as of late, aside from the Randy fight.

[Zombie]

As much as I'll be rooting for Brock in UFC (maybe more so for him then Silvia now becayse Lesnar was the only reason I was still watching WWE back when it was on it's last thread with me). I think he'll do good. UFC obviously saw something in him. Maybe there was an exhibition match or his training to sign him after only one fight. I know UFC sometimes tries to get a "gimmicky" person sometimes like that one underground fighter but got demolished by a UFC guy. But it's alot less now so I'm sure there was something to get them to sign him.

He might be one that people hate because he was a "pro wrestler" and or how he left WWE, but I think people need to give him a break. Whatever his choices were was HIS choices. Can't judge people like that. THat's all people like to judge people these days. What they do or say in their private lives but can't be private because they're a celeb of some sorts.

[Zombie]

Looks like Brock Lesnar's first oppenent is Frank Mir Febuary 2nd

from ufc.com

Just gonna post the link. There's to much advertisement links in the article and can't copy and paste right. I swear for how much the UFC makes they still do a SHIT LOAD of advertising. It's pathetic, kind of like MTV and how much they make but soooo many ad's on shows, on their sites.

http://www.ufc.com/index.cfm?fa=news.detail&gid=8534

[Denzil]

from www.ufc.tv:

In a classic case of putting your money where your mouth is, new UFC signee Brock Lesnar – who has made no bones about wanting to fight the best the heavyweight division has to offer – will make his Octagon debut at UFC 81 on February 2nd against none other than former UFC Heavyweight Champion Frank Mir.

The bout will be held at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, Nevada on the eve of Super Bowl XLII.

“It’s an interesting matchup,” said UFC President Dana White. “Lesnar is a great wrestler, a good athlete, and this is definitely gonna be a big test for him. Frank Mir is a former world champion who is coming off a big win over Antoni Hardonk, and he’s looking to get his career back on track while Lesnar’s looking to walk into the UFC and prove what type of fighter he’s gonna be by trying to knock him off.”

The 6-3 ½, 265 Lesnar (1-0) comes to the UFC with stellar college wrestling credentials that saw him earn All American status four times, win Big Ten Championships twice, and also win the 2000 NCAA National Championship. After leaving the University of Minnesota, the South Dakota-born Lesnar gained fame as a professional wrestler and also had a stint with the NFL’s Minnesota Vikings. In 2007, he made his mixed martial arts debut and annihilated Min Soo Kim in just 69 seconds on June 2nd.

“This guy’s not trying to duck anybody,” said White of Lesnar. “He knew once he got in the UFC that he was gonna fight tough guys.”

28 year old Las Vegan Frank Mir (10-3) was destined for stardom from the moment he stepped in the UFC Octagon, and he lived up to all expectations when he submitted Tim Sylvia in 50 seconds in 2004 to win the UFC Heavyweight Championship. Unfortunately, Mir’s career ground to a halt when a serious motorcycle accident later that year forced him to the sidelines for almost two years. His eagnerness to return forced him into some spotty performances when he did return in 2006, but at UFC 74 in August, Mir was back in top notch form as he submitted Antoni Hardonk in just 77 seconds.

Updated the fight cards on the first page.

[Geddy Peart]

Mir really isn't a threat these days. The only edge he has over Brock is experience.

[Zombie]

I agree. Mir also has never really had a stand up game either. I think it'll go to the ground and Lesnar's stregnth will help him win the match. I think Mir as one of the guy's that could be used as a stepping stone. WHen they were talking about Cro-Cop not really having a "easy" fight I totally forgot about Mir, if anyone is fighting Mir I think of that as that guy's stepping stone.

If this was Mir 4-5 years ago or pre accident, then I'd consider him a threat. Hell, we'll never know if and who would have beaten him for the belt. After accident Mir has been out of shape, doesn't look like he really "wants" it or has a desire anymore. Maybe because he's losing more now and it plays a huge part in your mental desire, so he may not be as motivated anymore. Hell he really has nothing to lose anymore. If he loses this match it'll be blamed because of the accident and Mir hasn't been the same since. If he wins the match then it'll be said that Lesnar is a "fish" and was only his second match in MMA. So really there's nothing to be lost or gained for Mir in this match.

Kind of could be said for Lesnar because they'll say he beat a guy who is no longer a "threat" and or they'll say Lesnar beat a "former champion" blah blah blah.

[Geddy Peart]

I agree, Zombie. If this was pre-accident Mir, it would be a bad match up for Lesnar. These days it appears Mir only fights for a paycheck.

I wonder if Lesnar beats Mir, will Mir retire premenantly to the broadcasting booth?

[On a Pale Horse]

Man that card last night was pretty boring. I am glad I didnt pay for it (saw it at Hooters). UFC 79 looks to be pretty good though.

[Zombie]

Man that card last night was pretty boring. I am glad I didnt pay for it (saw it at Hooters). UFC 79 looks to be pretty good though.

I agree. I saw it at my friends. I wasn't going to order it either. If he didn't happen to get it, then I would have went to a bar to watch it.

[Geddy Peart]

I didn't watch the PPV either. Some of the fights looked good, but I'll be damned if I'm paying $40 to watch Rashad Evans and Michael Bisping headline.

[GameOver]

Lauzon kicked ass.

[nottidelterrore]

I don't watch much UFC but am getting into the earlier stuff. I acquired UFC 3 & 4 on DVD....mainly because of the Keith Hackney fights. He punches Joe Son in the balls about 10 times in UFC 4 & punches Emmanuel Yarborough in the skull numerous times.

[GameOver]

I don't watch much UFC but am getting into the earlier stuff. I acquired UFC 3 & 4 on DVD....mainly because of the Keith Hackney fights. He punches Joe Son in the balls about 10 times in UFC 4 & punches Emmanuel Yarborough in the skull numerous times.

I own the first four and that is one of my favorite moments.

[nottidelterrore]

It's just so ridiculous how he can take that many shots to the pills like that. It's insane.

Joe Son Highlight Video:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=5N9eRehnMiY

[GameOver]

UFC 79 results

-Mark Bocek vs. Doug Evans
***Winner Bocek Unanimous Decision...

-Roan Carneiro vs. Tony DeSouza
***Carneiro winner TKO 2nd Roun

-Dean Lister vs. Jordan Radev
***Winner Lister by Unanimous Decision

-Manny Gamburyan vs. Nate Mohr
***Gamburyan wins 1st round ankle lock

-James Irvin vs. Luis Cane
***James Irvin wins 1st round DQ (illegal knee)

-Melvin Guillard vs. Rich Clementi
***Winner Clement 1st round submission

-Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou vs. Lyoto Machida
***Winner Machida submission

-Eddie Sanchez vs. Soa Palelei
***Winner Sanchez 3rd round TKO

-Chuck Liddell vs. Wanderlei Silva
******Chuck wins Unanimous Decision!!!

-Georges St. Pierre vs. Matt Hughes
armbar submission 3 rd round...

[Geddy Peart]

Matt Hughes is done. He doesn't have the drive to really compete anymore and even if he did he still couldn't beat GSP today.

Chuck looked great against Wandy, but I don't know if he'll ever win a title again. One of the guys at my BJJ school said both Chuck and Wandy are shells of their former selves, but I don't know. Chuck looked like his old ass-kicking self to me.

[Denzil]

The website for UFC 80 and 81 is up:

http://80.ufc.com/

Can't wait for Penn vs Stevenson

http://81.ufc.com/

I'm shocked that they managed to include WWE footage in the trailer.

ADDED: Updated the UFC fight cards (on page 1) up to the partial card for UFC 82 in March.

[Seth]

Concerning Brock & Mir:

Mir's not the fighter he once was, but unless Brock has somehow developed one hell of a submission defense and/or a good stand-up game over a relatively short period of time, then Mir still very much has a chance. Sure, Brock is powerful and was a tremendous amateur wrestler, but those two things alone do not mean he's unbeatable on the ground. Far from it, as a matter of fact -- I've seen lots of guys who were great wrestlers do nothing but lay on top of their opponents once they had them on the canvas. In my opinion, it's not too far-fetched of a thought that Brock might get his foot torn off with a heel hook.

[Geddy Peart]

Despite having Nog/Sylvia, Brock/Mir and Horn/Marquart on the card, I'm really eager to see the Ricardo Almeida vs. Adam Belcher fight. I've heard so much about Ricardo from my BJJ professor and coaches, I'm eager to see him in action.

Overall, it's a great card.

[Denzil]

Crocop Gone.

from www.f4wonline.com:

Mirko Crocop has officially been released from UFC and showed up today at the press conference in Japan to announce the new DREAM promotion, which is basically K-1 Heroes with a new name and in association with the former owners of PRIDE (Yarennoka group). They announced they're going to be doing the lightweight tournament that PRIDE had planned in 2006, and announced Shinya Aoki vs. JZ Calvin as one of the matches.

Here is a link to another article about his departure: http://mmajunkie.com/2008/02/13/mirko-cro-cop-filipovic-leaves-ufc-signs-with-new-organization/

It could lead to this though.

from mmajunkie.com:

More on Mirko’s Departure: Emelianenko vs. Cro Cop II Now Possible

During today’s press conference to announce that Mirko “Cro Cop” Filipovic has left the UFC to fight for the new DREAM organization, the company’s executives announced that they had struck a deal with M-1 Global, which could mean a future bout between DREAM’s Filipovic and M-1 Global’s Fedor Emelianenko.

The news comes from Yahoo! Sports (http://sports.yahoo.com/mma/blog/mma_experts/post/Cro-Cop-to-Japan;_ylt=AuNn92TmQ7B0uC_NMtOxxLo9Eo14?urn=mma%2C 66610), a content-partner site of MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com).

According to reporter Dave Meltzer, the two upstart organizations have signed a business deal — a move that could open the door for the promotions to share talent. Melzter said that Emelianenko (as well as free agent UFC hall-of-famer Royce Gracie) both appeared in videotaped messages saying they planned to compete for DREAM.

DREAM was created by former Dream Stage Entertainment staff members (who operated PRIDE Fighting Championships before it was bought out by the UFC’s owners last year) and FEG, the parent company of K-1 kickboxing and HERO’S MMA. DREAM will replace HERO’s as the organization’s MMA arm.

The Japanese-based organization appealed to the Croatian Filipovic.

“I never liked fighting in the cage,” Filipovic said at today’s press conference. “I always liked fighting in the ring. The second thing is that I like fighting in Japan… I don’t want anyone to think that I’m running away from the UFC.“

Emelianenko and Filipovic first met in a highly anticipated bout at PRIDE Final Conflict 2005, where Emelianenko earned a hard-fought unanimous-decision victory. During the August 2005 bout, the two fighters were among the most popular and dominant anywhere in MMA.

After winning the 2006 PRIDE Open-Weight Grand Prix, Filipovic (22-6-2) signed a six-fight, two-year deal with the UFC. The signing turned out to be a fairly significant flop. Although he defeated Eddie Sanchez in his debut, he then suffered a stunning first-round knockout to Gabriel Gonzaga and a lackluster unanimous decision to Cheick Kongo. His split with the UFC was amicable and neither side has ruled out his return to the organization, according to published reports.

Emelianenko (27-1), one of the world’s top-ranked heavyweights, is the only fighter who’s been confirmed as an M-1 Global signee. The former PRIDE heavyweight champion owns a 27-1 mark, though he’s faced largely outmatched or sub-par competition over the past two years. A fight with Filipovic could change all that, though.

DREAM officials today stated that Filipovic could fight at its inaugural show on March 15 — possibly for a new heavyweight title. However, if Emelianenko isn’t booked as an opponent, they’ll have future opportunities. The 2008 schedule released by DREAM includes:

* March 15: Heiwa Dream 1 at Saitama Super Arena
* April 29: Olympia Dream 2 at Saitama Super Arena
* May 11: Heiwa Dream 3 at Saitama Super Arena
* Mid-June: Olympia Dream 4 at TBD
* July 21: Heiwa Dream 5 at Osaka Castle Hall
* Mid-September: Dream 6 at Saitama Super Arena

This would rock! I hope Crocop brings his A game.
ADDED:
I've been spending time on the event cards on the first page of the thread (i hope people are reading them!).

Have added fights (many of them rumored) to Fight Night 13, UFC 83, UFC 84 and UFC 85. Was toying around with making each entry like the UFC 74 one, with the fight order fixed and split into Preliminary Card and Main Card.

What do you think? Should i do it for the rest of the UFC events?

[D-Lo]

I've been spending time on the event cards on the first page of the thread (i hope people are reading them!).

Have added fights (many of them rumored) to Fight Night 13, UFC 83, UFC 84 and UFC 85. Was toying around with making each entry like the UFC 74 one, with the fight order fixed and split into Preliminary Card and Main Card.

What do you think? Should i do it for the rest of the UFC events?

Damn. I haven't read the first page in some time. That's cool of you to keep updating with the new cards. I didn't know you were doing that.

The Cro Cop issue sucks. I think he is a great fighter, but I can't defend him when people say he couldn't hack it in the UFC. It's true, unfortunatley. I thought he was going to clean out the HW division. He couldn't even get past b-level heavies.

Oh well, can't be right about everything :)

[Denzil]

It's no problem, i have too much spare time anyway. I'll post here when i update them so that people can check them on the first page.

It is a shame that Cro Cop has left in such a way, i remember the amount of buzz going around when he debuted. Then there was the potential Cro Cop vs Couture match that was supposed to happen last summer. He was well hyped up then just didn't deliver.

It will be interesting to see where his career goes from here.

[Denzil]

UFC 85 news: Shogun out, it's now Liddell vs Evans.

from mmajunkie.com:

With Mauricio "Shogun" Rua scratched from the event with injury, former UFC light heavyweight champion Chuck Liddell (21-5 MMA, 16-4 UFC) will instead fight Rashad Evans (11-0-1 MMA, 6-0-1 UFC) in the main event of "UFC 85: Liddell vs. Evans."

The UFC made the official overnight -- just days after the organization confirmed that Rua had reaggravated an ACL injury that forced him out of the fight.

UFC 85 takes place June 7 at the O2 Arena in London, England. In addition to Liddell vs. Evans, the UFC also confirmed a long-rumored bout of Brandon Vera (8-1 MMA, 4-1 UFC) vs. Fabricio Werdum (10-3-1 MMA, 1-1 UFC).

More than 8,000 tickets have already been sold for UFC 85, and the organization expects even more when Liddell visits London next week for a whirlwind media tour.

Liddell is looking to return to the UFC's light-heavyweight title picture. The former champ lost his belt to Quinton Jackson at UFC 71 and then suffered a loss to Keith Jardine via split decision in September. They were the first back-to-back losses of Liddell's career. He returned for a vital victory over Wanderlei Silva at UFC 79 in December.

Evans, meanwhile, was expected to fight Thiago Silva at May's UFC 84 event. Instead, he will step up for his second straight main-event fight. "The Ultimate Fighter 2" winner's only blemish on an otherwise perfect record was a draw to Tito Ortiz at UFC 73. However, Evans bounced back for a split-decision victory over co-headliner Michael Bisping at UFC 78 in November.

Werdum most recently defeated Gabriel Gonzaga in January, and UFC president Dana White had hinted that it would earn the Brazilian a title shot. Instead, he'll face Vera, who broke his hand in the first round of a unanimous-decision loss to Tim Sylvia in October.

I was really looking forward to that fight, such a shame that Shogun got injured.

[Geddy Peart]

I see the fight going two ways, Liddell by KO or via a long-boring decision.

Rashad doesn't have the skills to beat Chuck. His striking sucks, and if Randy and Tito couldn't keep Chuck grounded, I doubt Rashad will.

[Denzil]

Updated the event cards through to UFC 87.

[Denzil]

Chuck Liddell out of UFC 85

from http://www.ufc.com/index.cfm?fa=news.detail&gid=11489 :

CHUCK LIDDELL INJURED; FORCED TO WITHDRAW FROM UFC®
04/21/2008

The Ultimate Fighting Championship® (UFC®) organisation announced today that Chuck Liddell has been forced to withdraw from the UFC 85 event. Liddell tore his hamstring last week while training for his June 7 bout with undefeated light heavyweight Rashad Evans.

"Unfortunately, Chuck Liddell tore his right hamstring during training last week, and being the warrior that he is, he still wanted to fight, which is the reason why everyone in the world loves him," said Dana White, UFC President. "But I wouldn't let anyone fight with his leg looking that way. Let him heal and come back and fight when he is 100 percent."


White continued, "We're adding fights to the card and rearranging it so the UK fans won't have to worry, we'll still be bringing an amazing card to London and the O2
Arena. The UFC® always delivers."

The UFC® will announce a new main event shortly, along with a full lineup of 13 fights for the UFC® 85 card, making it the biggest UFC® event in over a decade. The event will include a heavyweight eliminator between Brandon Vera and Fabricio Werdum, a welterweight showdown between popular striker Marcus Davis and The Ultimate Fighter® alumnus Mike Swick, a middleweight battle between Nate Marquardt and Thales Leites, and a light heavyweight clash between Luiz Cane and Jason Lambert.

Plus, undefeated British heavyweight Neil Wain will make his UFC® debut against dangerous kickboxer Antoni Hardonk.

The remaining bouts for UFC® 85 will be announced shortly.

James Irvin has replaced Chuck Liddell and the main event has now been announced:

from http://www.ufc.com/index.cfm?fa=news.detail&gid=11555

MATT HUGHES vs. THIAGO ALVES TO HEADLINE UFC 85

04/25/2008

ULTIMATE FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP® ANNOUNCES
MATT HUGHES vs. THIAGO ALVES TO HEADLINE UFC 85
ALSO:

RASHAD EVANS vs. JAMES IRVIN
MICHAEL BISPING vs. CHRIS LEBEN

LIVE FROM THE O2 ARENA
SATURDAY, JUNE 7

Tickets on Sale Now

Las Vegas, NV (USA) – On Saturday, June 7th, welterweight legend Matt Hughes begins his quest for an unprecedented third 170-pound UFC® crown when he battles Brazilian banger Thiago “Pitbull” Alves in the main event of UFC 85, which will be held at the O2 Arena in London, England.

“Obviously Chuck Liddell's injury was a big blow, but as always our incredible fighters step up to give fans the best possible replacement," said Dana White, UFC President. "Now we will see an explosive matchup between top ten ranked contender Thiago “Pitbull” Alves and two time former UFC World Champion Matt Hughes. Alves is an ATT trained Muay Thai wrecking machine coming off of five straight wins and Hughes is a powerhouse wrestler who was the most dominant welterweight champion in UFC history. These are two of the best athletes in the sport and we are thrilled to bring them to London for main event.”

Also added to UFC 85, which will pack 13 high-impact bouts onto one unforgettable card, is a middleweight showdown between UK superstar Michael "The Count" Bisping and Chris "The Crippler" Leben, and a light heavyweight contest featuring "Sugar" Rashad Evans against knockout artist James "The Sandman" Irvin.

Tickets for UFC 85 are on sale now priced at £45, £75, £125, £175, £200 and £295. Tickets are available through www.ticketmaster.co.uk and the O2 Arena Box Office.

UFC 85 is available live on pay-per-view in the United States at 3:00pm EST/Noon PST and on replay at 10:00pm EST/7:00pm PST on iN DEMAND, DIRECTV, DISH Network, TVN, Bell ExpressVu, Shaw Communications and Viewer’s Choice Canada for a suggested retail price of $39.95 ($39.99 CAD) and $49.95 for HD where available.

For Hughes, UFC 85 will mark his second trip to fight in the UK, following his fourth round TKO of Carlos Newton in defense of his welterweight title back in July of 2002. Alves, a Muay Thai wrecking machine who is fresh off a second round TKO of highly-regarded Karo Parisyan, knows that a win over the future Hall of Famer will move him right in line for a shot at current welterweight champion Georges St-Pierre. Hughes is ready for what may be one of his stiffest tests.

“Thiago is coming off a big win against Karo Parisyan, so honestly, I’ll probably look to take him down, try to wear him out and get him a little slower because he’s got such quick punches, knees, and kicks,” said Hughes. “I think strength will come into play, me being bigger than he is, but I’m glad to fight Thiago. He’s a nice guy and I really like American Top Team, so it’s kinda nice to fight somebody I like and whose coaching staff is friendly.”

Alves shares this view with his opponent.

“He has been the man for so many years and has defended it more than any other champ so I'm excited for this opportunity to fight him,” said Alves. “Thank you Joe Silva and Dana White.”

As for fighting in front of the enthusiastic UK fans, both welterweight standouts are chomping at the bit to cross the pond into England.

“I love England,” said Hughes. “I had a lot of fun when I fought over there last time. The fans are very knowledgeable and respectful, so I’m very happy to go over there. When Dana spoke to me about fighting in England, the first thing I thought was ‘I’d love to go back.’”

“I'm super excited to be fighting in England,” adds Alves. “I've never fought there before and the crowds look like they really get into the fights.”

Winner of 43 of 49 fights, Hillsboro, Illinois’ Matt Hughes (43-6) needs no introduction to fight fans. Owner of the welterweight title twice over the course of his decade long career, the 34-year old Hughes defended his crown seven times over those two reigns, defeating the likes of St-Pierre, BJ Penn, Sean Sherk, Frank Trigg, and Royce Gracie. Following a successful nationwide tour for his recent autobiography, Hughes was expecting a break from the Octagon™, but recently, the itch to compete returned, and when he was contacted about fighting Alves and replacing the scrapped UFC 85 main event between Chuck Liddell and Rashad Evans, he jumped at the chance.

“Last Tuesday I was at practice and I did the whole practice, I didn’t just coach,” said Hughes. “When my boys ran sprints, I ran sprints, and everything I taught them, I did as well. So from there I kinda got the itch to where I said ‘hey, I’m not in bad shape,’ and my plan was to start getting ready to return. Then Dana called and I didn’t hesitate to take the fight.”

One of mixed martial arts’ most exciting young stars, Thiago "Pitbull" Alves (20-4) has evolved from a wreckless striker into a well-rounded combatant who is dangerous wherever a fight may take him. Just 24 years old, the Fortaleza, Brazil native is currently riding a five fight winning streak that has seen him score early wins over Tony DeSouza, Kuniyoshi Hironaka, Chris Lytle, and most recently, Parisyan. On June 7th, he gets his chance to shine in front of an international audience.

The winner of the third season of The Ultimate Fighter®, Manchester, England’s Michael "The Count" Bisping (16-1) has proven to be more than just a reality show product thus far in his UFC career. Winner of five out of six UFC fights, with the only loss a razor-thin decision to Rashad Evans, Bisping dropped to the middleweight division in April and his emphatic first round win over Charles McCarthy proved that he is a force to be reckoned with at 185 pounds.

A charismatic force in the middleweight division who refuses to be in a boring fight, Chris “The Crippler” Leben (18-4) goes in only one direction in the Octagon – forward. Known for his granite chin and concussive power, Leben is coming off back to back stoppage wins over Alessio Sakara and Terry
Martin, and he would like nothing better than to make Bisping his next victim.

Undefeated in 17 pro fights, "Sugar" Rashad Evans (16-0-1) has used a mix of wrestling ability, strong standup, athleticism, and determination to sail to the upper reaches of the light heavyweight division. Winner of the The Ultimate Fighter’s second season, Evans has since pounded out wins over Stephen Bonnar, Jason Lambert, and Michael Bisping. Originally scheduled to fight Chuck Liddell on June 7th, Evans has nonetheless readjusted his training regimen and is looking forward to putting on a spectacular performance for British fans against James Irvin.

“I think it’s a very good fight,” said Evans. “I’m not fighting Chuck Liddell, but Irvin is definitely on the top level. He’s got big punching power and he’s proven himself time and time again, so I’m definitely happy to fight a top tier opponent. Liddell and Irvin have similar fighting styles, and you have to go out there and fight them. You can’t go in there and hopefully get a takedown on them. You’ve got to go in there and fight these guys straight up.”

Perhaps the hardest puncher in the light heavyweight division today, James "The Sandman" Irvin (14-4, 1 no contest) returns to the Octagon just two months after his eight second destruction of Houston Alexander on April 2nd. That’s just fine with the Sacramento product, whose only loss in his last five bouts came when he injured his knee early in a fight with Thiago Silva last May. On June 7th, he gets the chance to move up another rung on the 205-pound ladder.

The remaining bouts for UFC 85 will be announced in the near future. All bouts are live and subject to change. For further information on the UFC visit www.ufc.com or uk.ufc.com or www.ufcespanol.com.

About The Ultimate Fighting Championship
The Ultimate Fighting Championship is the world’s leading professional mixed martial arts organization and offers the premier series of MMA sports events. Owned and operated by Zuffa, LLC, and headquartered in Las Vegas, Nev., UFC produces over twelve live pay-per-view events annually that are distributed residentially through North American cable and satellite providers including iNDEMAND Networks, DIRECTV, DISH Network, TVN Entertainment, Shaw Pay-Per-View, Bell ExpressVU, Viewers Choice, SaskTel Max™ and via the Internet worldwide on Yahoo! Sports, and commercially through Joe Hand Promotions in the U.S. and Canadastar in Canada. In addition to its North American distribution, UFC programming is distributed in over 100 countries and territories throughout the world. For more information, or current UFC fight news, visit www.ufc.com or uk.ufc.com or www.ufcespanol.com.

Ultimate Fighting Championship, Ultimate Fighting, UFC, The Ultimate Fighter®, Submission®, As Real As It Gets®, Zuffa™, The Octagon™ and the eight-sided competition mat and cage design are registered trademarks, trademarks, trade dress or service marks owned exclusively by Zuffa, LLC in the United States and other jurisdictions. All other marks referenced herein may be the property of Zuffa, LLC or other respective owners..

Should be an interesting fight, also that picture of Chuck's injured leg is sick!

[Denzil]

Now Rashad has pulled out of UFC 85. Bedlam is a good subtitle fo UFC 85, considering how many fighters has pulled out of the show: Chuck Liddell, Mauricio Rua, James Irvin, Rashad Evans, Jonathan Goulet, Paul Kelly and Chris Leben. UFC will be glad once this show is over, as they can't afford to have any more fighters pulling out for that show.

Mark Coleman is out of UFC 87 and has been replaced by Heath Herring. This is a dangerous fight for Brock as Herring almost beat current interim UFC Heavyweight Champion Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira at UFC 73. Herring is an experienced figher however, i'm still picking Brock to beat him.

[Geddy Peart]

I see Heath getting by on his experience. Brock may be an incredible athlete and may be picking up MMA quickly, but he's still very green.

I almost think he's too inexperienced for someone like Herring. We'll see.

[Denzil]

I see Heath getting by on his experience. Brock may be an incredible athlete and may be picking up MMA quickly, but he's still very green.

I almost think he's too inexperienced for someone like Herring. We'll see.

No matter who wins i think it'll be a great fight and will hopefully last longer than Brock's fight against Mir.

[Denzil]

More changes to UFC 85. Neil Wain is out and replaced by Eddie Sanchez in a bout against Antoni Hardonk. Also Kevin Burns has stepped in to replace Ryo Chonan in a welterweight bout against Roan Carneiro.
ADDED:
To update the list of fighters that have pulled out of UFC 85:

Chuck Liddell, Mauricio Rua, James Irvin, Rashad Evans, Jonathan Goulet, Paul Kelly, Chris Leben, Neil Wian and Ryo Chonan. Nine fighers in total. Still just over a week to go as well.

Bedlam indeed.
ADDED:
Had some free time so i split all the fight cards on the first page into Main Card and Preliminary Fights. Also i included a note on the prelim fights that were broadcast on the main card.

[zombie extra 3]

I only have a mild interest in MMA. I was mostly into Pride but I have been trying to watch more UFC and even other organizations like EliteXC since Pride was bought out by UFC. I own a bunch of UFC and Pride DVDs. However, I own more Pride DVDs than UFC DVDs.

[andrew8798]

Lesnar vs. Couture official

Dana White just announced that on November 15th at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas it will be UFC Heavyweight Champion Randy Couture vs. Brock Lesnar. It will be a five-round fight for the title, and the winner will face the winner of December's Antonio Nogueira vs. Frank Mir Interim Title fight.

More to come in today's daily update.

http://www.f4wonline.com/content/view/6606/124/

[Geddy Peart]

I see this as a damned if you do/damned if you don't situation for Lesnar. If he wins, so what? He beat up a 45 year old hall of famer that hasn't competed for almost a year. If Lesnar loses, it'll be his 2nd big loss after all of his hype and will show that he should have stuck to 'rasslin'.

I'm rooting for Randy though. Considering the UFC signed him to a new 3-fight contract, it looks like his fight with Fedor will never happen.

Anyway WAR OLD MAN COUTURE!

Should Brock get passed Randy, I look forward to Nog subbing him or Mir heel hooking him again.

[On a Pale Horse]

Who do you think is going to win Liddell vs Evans this weekend?

[On a Pale Horse]

Damn..

Lidell just got KTFO!!

[Toejam]

Rashad nearly took his head off. That was a brutal punch.
WOW!

[Geddy Peart]

UFC fighter Evan Tanner dead at 37

http://www.mmaweekly.com/absolutenm/templates/dailynews.asp?articleid=7059&zoneid=2

- FORMER UFC CHAMP EVAN TANNER DEAD AT 37
Monday, September 08, 2008 - by Jeff Cain, Ken Pishna & Tom Hamlin - MMAWeekly.com

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------



Former Ultimate Fighting Championship middleweight titleholder Evan Tanner was found dead near Palo Verde, Calif. on Monday. He was 37 years old. His management team at DFS Agency confirmed his death to MMAWeekly.com.

Tanner had trekked into the desert on a journey to “cleanse” himself, according to Douglas Vincitorio of DFS. “He went out to the desert to do a ‘cleansing’ as he called it. Kind of like ‘Survivor Man.’” These short trips were not new to Tanner, said Vincitorio. It is something that he has done numerous times over the years.

“What we were told is that (sheriff’s officials who found him) believe his motorcycle had run out of gas, so he went to walk out in like 115 to 118-degree heat,” said Vincitorio. “He was miles away from his camp. That’s where the helicopter found him. Right now, they just think that he succumbed to the heat.”

Tanner had apparently told friends before he left that if they hadn’t heard from him in a couple of days, they should contact officials, which is what happened. When he stopped responding to text messages, friends waited a couple of days and then notified officials at the Imperial County Sherrif’s Department on Friday.

A search ensued and Tanner’s body was found on Monday.

On Aug. 10, Tanner wrote a blog on Spike TV’s website, proclaiming his desire to start an adventure in the desert east of his new home in Oceanside, Calif. An avid outdoorsman and wandering spirit, he wanted to escape civilization for a while.

“I'm not just going out into the desert, I'm going out into the desert to hunt for lost treasure,” he wrote. “I'm going on a pilgrimage of sorts, a journey to solitude, to do some thinking, and to pay my respects to the great mysteries.”

On Aug. 16, Tanner wrote about collecting supplies for his journey, and wrote about the dangers he might face.

“I plan on going so deep into the desert, that any failure of my equipment, could cost me my life,” he said. “I've been doing a great deal of research and study. I want to know all I can about where I'm going, and I want to make sure I have the best equipment.”

Of course, this led followers of his blog to fear for his safety, as they often did when Tanner reported his frequent by-the-seat-of-his-pants adventures. In a blog dated Aug. 27, Tanner tried to calm his audience.

“This isn't a version of ‘Into the Wild,’” he wrote. “I'm not going out into the desert with a pair of shorts and a bowie knife, to try to live off the land. I'm going fully geared up, and I'm planning on having some fun.”

But he also affirmed that things could go wrong if his equipment wasn’t up to snuff.

“I do plan on going back pretty far, so I did mention in one of my posts that I wanted to make sure to have good quality gear,” he said. “Any failure of gear out in the desert could cause a problem.”

On Sept. 2, Tanner wrote his final blog entry, documenting a training session at a facility in Oceanside.

The Amarillo, Texas native was a high school wrestling stand out who won the state championships his junior and senior years despite only getting into the sport as a sophomore. He entered mixed martial arts in 1997 encouraged by friends.

Tanner rose to the top of the mixed martial arts world by winning the UFC middleweight title over David Terrell at UFC 51: "Super Saturday" Feb. 5, 2005. Tanner last competed in the UFC on June 21 losing to Kendall Grove by split decision.

“He will obviously be sorely missed,” said Vincitorio. Adding, “I think that Evan would want to be remembered as a very complex man with many layers, not just a fighter.”

Tanner was surely a unique personality. He’s eccentric spirit and competitive nature will be sorely missed in the MMA community.




Wow.

[zombie extra 3]

I'm happy Lesnar won and I hope he has a hugely successful MMA career and gets more wins. A lot of respect to Couture. He's a legendary MMA fighter.

[Geddy Peart]

As soon as Randy went down I said "Oh shit, they're going to stop it." There was no way he could have gotten out of it. Up until that point, I thought the fight was his.

It'll be really interesting to see Lesnar fight the winner of Mir/Nog. If he has a rematch with Frank Mir, I don't see Frank winning this time. He was getting pounded in their first encounter until Lesnar made a rookie mistake. I don't see Lesnar making the same mistake twice. As for a fight with Nog: it could be very interesting.

[Violent VictiM]

I still can't believe that Lesnar is UFC Champion. After three fights. I mean, I like the dude but damn.

[Geddy Peart]

I agree VV, I think they just put Lesnar up against Couture for the drawing power it would have. The fight was a circus act of sorts, with Lesnar's WWE past and such. But I don't think he'll be champ for long, not with the UFC's heavyweight division being populated by BJJ experts (Nog, Werdrum, Gonzaga, Mir). And Jits is Lesnar's weakest area. I expect Nog to submit him when they fight.

[zach82]

Man, did anyone see that armbar that snapped Al-Hassan's arm in the Fight for the Troops event? That's the perfect example of someone trying to play Superman instead of tapping, then paying the price. I just couldn't stop watching that replay.

[Furious Styles]

http://i42.tinypic.com/2irrqkx.jpg

Fedor DESTROYS Arlovski!

[zach82]

I'm really starting to wonder who is going to step up and beat Anderson Silva... 6 title defenses in a row now.

[TheShowstoppa]

5th title defense, 9th straight win. I'm kinda pissed off at Lietas for botching that fight. He should have been a man in the first place and fought instead of lying on the ground like a pansy hoping Silva would play into his stupidity. No thanks. This is the UFC, man... GROW A PAIR AND FIGHT instead of backpeddling the whole night.

[Denzil]

That was a horrible fight. Heres hoping that Silva will move up the 205 division as there are much more interesting fights for him there.

Although, i would love to see Silva vs Bisping, maybe that can be his last fight at 185. Bisping of course has to overcome Dan Henderson at UFC 100.

[GameOver]

UFC 100

Mir Vs. Lesner Lesner 2nd rd ko :cry:

[Furious Styles]

Fedor Vs. Barnett at Affliction III has been canceled after Barnett tested positive for a banned substance

[Furious Styles]

The LA Times is reporting that Fedor and UFC representatives are finalizing a deal, however representatives from M-1 Global, whom represent Fedor, are saying that no such deal is imminent.

Strikeforce is putting together an offer for Fedor as well

[Toejam]

I would be surprised if Fedor signs with the UFC, at least anytime soon.

The UFC will not Co-Promote with M-1 Global. They will probably be willing to pay Fedor ridiculous amounts of money and let him compete in Sambo and whatever else Fedor wants, but they will not Co-Promote with M-1 Global.

M-1 Global is the problem here not the UFC.

[On a Pale Horse]

Kimbo vs Houston Alexander?


107
Exclusive: Kimbo Slice vs. Houston Alexander possible for UFC 107

30

Houston AlexanderA slugfest between Kimbo Slice and Houston Alexander is looking like a strong possibility for UFC 107.

A source close to the situation advised FiveOuncesofPain.com today that although no bout agreements have been sent, at least one of the fighters has been formally approached about the possibility of the bout.

UFC 107 is scheduled for December 12 from Memphis, Tennessee, and will feature a headlining lightweight championship bout between B.J. Penn and Diego Sanchez.

Kimbo would be coming off of the heels of his appearance on “The Ultimate Fighter: Heavyweights“, and his recent TUF 10 loss at the hands (and moon-sized belly) of Roy “Big Country” Nelson. Prior to his stint at the TUF house Kimbo suffered a lightning quick TKO defeat to Seth Petruzelli after racking up wins over guys like Tank Abbott and James “Colossus” Thompson.

Alexander recently bounced back into the winners circle with a first round TKO over Sherman Pendergarst during Adrenaline IV in September, following three consecutive defeats with the UFC.

A bout between the two heavy handed knockout artists at UFC 107 would go a long way in filling the void left by the scratching of Quinton “Rampage” Jackson vs. Rashad Evans due to Rampage’s current involvement as B.A. Baracus on the upcoming A-Team remake.

Stay tuned to FiveOuncesofPain.com for any further develpments on this story.

[Zombie]

Its funny how MMA talk has dropped so fast here. I still watch every PPV, show, what have you and all. But with it not talked about as much and just me not coming on here (or any other message boards for that matter. Only 2 I go to that I'll post right now and really it's just 1. Here and Alley Baggett's forum but I rarely post there now to) but I am still way into MMA and all.

My kids are into WWE now and they like watching it every Monday and such. I'll sometimes watch it with them or sometimes take them to a big PPV at a sports bar like place where they show it and minors can come in because it's more like a restaurant as well, but I can't get them in UFC/MMA. They still think WWE is "real" like and all so I don't want to ruin it for them. They're still young and I dont want them to be all sad lol I know I eventually figured it out at one point so I'm sure they will to. But for me, I still can't get into WWE anymore. I like the games as long as Stone Cold is in it, but that's about it.

[GameOver]

Woah, you kids think somebody getting choke slammed is more exciting than an RNC? You have to crush their dreams now and put them in BJJ.

[Geddy Peart]

What do you guys think about Shogun/Machida? I want to believe that the real Shogun is back, but a victory over an old Chuck Liddell isn't enough to convince me. Also, no one has figured out how to counter Machida's style yet.

Should be interesting.

[GameOver]

Haven't seen the fight yet but apparently Shogun was robbed; atleast that's what the fight fans have been saying.

ADDED:

It was really close and Rua gave Machida a beating but it wasn't the robbery people are claiming it to be.

[On a Pale Horse]

Good card on CBS tonight for FREE. Can't to see the Fedor vs Rogers fight.

My prediction: 90% chance Fedor is all over him like a spider, and Rogers is virtually helpless on the ground. 10% Rogers catches Fedor on the chin and wins by KO.

I am also excited to see Antonio Silva vs Fabricio Wedrum. I was watching Antonio back in EliteXC and people were dubbing him as the next big thing. He served a year suspension for alleged drug use (he still denies). This will be his first fight back in the US (fought in Japan) and his toughest opponent on his 14-1 record.

[Geddy Peart]

OAPH, I agree with you about Fedor/Rogers. Except for the 90/10 percentage part. I think it's more like there's a 99% chance that Fedor will decimate Rogers while Brett has a 1% chance of getting a Hail Mary KO
ADDED:
Fedor/Rogers in a few minutes.

I'm calling it right now, Fedor Round 1 KO

[On a Pale Horse]

Wow..... great card

Credit to Rogers for doing some damage to Fedor before getting KTFO himself. Mayhem vs Shields was a good fight too. Sudoko vs Mousasi was a face paced exciting fight. I was surprised by Werdum's decision over Silva. Bigfoot definitely has some power and skill... just needs some more fine tuning

Overall, I think Strike Force's heavyweight division is good as our better than UFC. In addition to tonight they also have Bobby Lashley, and the champion Alistair Overeem. .

[GameOver]

Wow..... great card

Credit to Rogers for doing some damage to Fedor before getting KTFO himself. Mayhem vs Shields was a good fight too. Sudoko vs Mousasi was a face paced exciting fight. I was surprised by Werdum's decision over Silva. Bigfoot definitely has some power and skill... just needs some more fine tuning

Overall, I think Strike Force's heavyweight division is good as our better than UFC. In addition to tonight they also have Bobby Lashley, and the champion Alistair Overeem. .
I agree, great fights. Before Silva vs. Werdum I said Silva would win as long as he didn't go to the ground and sure enough. Werdum is just on a different level on the ground.

[On a Pale Horse]

I guess we can stop using spoilers as results have been all over news for 24 hrs.

That was a tough decision on that fight. I think Werdum got because technically he landed more shots. But most of his hits didnt even phase Silva. Silva on the other, rocked Werdum a bunch of times. If it was Mortal Kombat, Werdum's life meter would have been far lower :)

I think they should do Silva vs Rogers next, and likely Fedor vs Werdum.

[Geddy Peart]

I have a feeling Fedor's going to fight Overeem next.

[On a Pale Horse]

Its kind of funny actually, no one seems to care about the champ. Werdum said he's already beat Overeem in Japan so his next step is to take on Fedor. And I doubt Fedor is really interested in the Strikeforce belt. The CEO of Strikeforce said Fedor vs Werdum "makes sense". In addition to all that, you got Bobby Lashley coming in for the next card too. So the heavyweight champ is kind of like a background character in his own league.

[GameOver]

I guess we can stop using spoilers as results have been all over news for 24 hrs.

That was a tough decision on that fight. I think Werdum got because technically he landed more shots. But most of his hits didnt even phase Silva. Silva on the other, rocked Werdum a bunch of times. If it was Mortal Kombat, Werdum's life meter would have been far lower :)

I think they should do Silva vs Rogers next, and likely Fedor vs Werdum.

I gave the first round to Silva, second round I'd have to say Werdum just edged it out and the third to Werdum. Sokoudjou was very impressive with his fight again Gerard, damn good Judo skills. I was really rooting for Miller especially when he had that RNC so deep on Shields.

http://www.ermac.org/i/-mma/Mousasi_sweep_Sokoudjou.gif

I love that sweep.

[Geddy Peart]

What do you guys think about Couture/Vera this weekend? I never want to count Randy out, but the way he looked against Nog makes me wonder if 46 is really too old for MMA. He's led an amazing career and he's been an inspiration to me in regards to my attitude toward training and fighting. However his reaction time and chin have diminished. I wonder if Vera's Muay Thai will be too much for Randy.

[Geddy Peart]

Am i the only one watching Couture/Vera? Even though my head says Vera should win, my heart is telling my Couture.

I'm going with my heart.

WAR RANDY!

[pa®tci]

Fedor WINS!

!FATALITY! (http://i36.tinypic.com/24yqv7m.jpg)

[On a Pale Horse]

Am i the only one watching Couture/Vera? Even though my head says Vera should win, my heart is telling my Couture.

I'm going with my heart.

WAR RANDY!

That fight was boring as hell. Granted I was half asleep while watching it, I seem to only remember a of clutching and small jabs with a wild finish for like the last 10 seconds.

[GameOver]

Am i the only one watching Couture/Vera? Even though my head says Vera should win, my heart is telling my Couture.

I'm going with my heart.

WAR RANDY!

I missed it but from what I heard fight was pretty boring and it may well be time for Randy to hang up the jock strap.

[pa®tci]

Brock Lesnar Hospitalized After Collapsing

The health of UFC Heavyweight Champion Brock Lesnar has taken a turn for the worse. Lesnar collapsed last week while in Canada and was rushed to the hospital, according to UFC president Dana White at the UFC 105 post-fight press conference.

Lesnar's UFC 106 fight against Shane Carwin was postponed to UFC 108 on October 27th after it was announced Lesnar had contracted mononucleosis. UFC President Dana White told reporters at the press conference that the Lesnar/Carwin fight will be delayed again because Lesnar's health has not improved and the diagnosis is worse than originally reported.

"He's in a hospital up in North Dakota somewhere right now," said White. "He went to Canada and some bad stuff happened to him, so we've got to figure it out.

"He doesn't want to talk about it publicly, but he's in bad shape. He's not well and he's not going to be getting well anytime soon."

White said he promised Lesnar he would not reveal what he's suffering from, but said that Lesnar doesn't have cancer or AIDS.

Does not sound very good to me... Hope he gets better soon.



Shane McMahon Meets with UFC
Source: F4Wonline.com

- Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter confirms that Shane McMahon recently had a meeting with UFC officials at their offices.

When UFC President Dana White was asked for more information, he responded with, "No comment."

We hope to have more details on Shane meeting with UFC soon.

Hmmm...

[Geddy Peart]

I missed it but from what I heard fight was pretty boring and it may well be time for Randy to hang up the jock strap.


Yeah, sad to say. I think at 46 he's still an amazing competitor, but he's not what he once was. Against Vera he looked slow and his reaction time was off. Also, nearly every punch Vera landed rocked Randy. At one point Vera hit him with a body kick that caused Randy to hold his ribs and turn away.

He survived against Vera, but I don't know if he'll be able to do the same against Shogun or Machida. Also, Rogan and Goldberg were saying that Randy had a strength advantage at LHW. This doesn't make sense to me because at HW Randy was between 220-230. Isn't that the typical walk-around wait for LHW as it is? I know Forrest Griffin usually weighs around 240 when he's not fighting. So how does Randy have an advantage at LHW if everyone is cutting the same amount of weight?

Also at 46, I wonder how cutting so much weight will effect Randy's body. One of the primary reason he stayed at HW upon coming out of retirement was because cutting weight is a lot harder to do in your 40s.

[On a Pale Horse]

I read more on the Brock story and it doesn't sound good at all. Its too bad, he was really developing into a dominating fighter. I hope he can come back.

[Jason's Storm]

I'm surprised Lesner hasn't been transfered to a hospital in Minnesota yet. I'm guessing its near his home and thats why he is there. Also he might be too unstable to transport.

~JS

[pa®tci]

Lesnar Needs Major Surgery - May Never Fight Again

UFC Heavyweight champion Brock Lesnar's health is much worse than originally thought and it appears Lesnar could have a very tough road ahead. UFC President Dana White told TMZ.com that in addition to having mononucleosis, Brock is "very, very sick" with some sort of intestinal disorderthat will require "major surgery."

White told TMZ that he is going to visit Lesnar in the hospital and is trying to get him transferred to the Mayo Clinic, one of the top medical facilities in the world, so doctors can figure out what to do.

After postponing the Brock Lesnar vs. Shane Carwin fight for a second time last weekend, White now says, "There's a possibility Lesnar will never fight again."

The Infectious Mononucleosis (http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/Mononucleosis+infectiosa) description. Do you think this came with he help from, let's say, Sable? :D :p
Joke aside, this is a bad, BAD disease. Hope the guy gets OK, he couldn't even start his MMA career...

[Jason's Storm]

Apparently he is going to check into the mayo Clinic soon or be transfered there. That is truely the best place for him to be. I wouldn't be surprised if he gets put into the gold rooms there. They are rooms with gold faucets and such and are frequently used when the Saudi's come for appointments.

~JS

[GameOver]

Damn, I hope Dana's exaggerating... Who's going to lay on top of Fedor and punch him in the face now?

[Geddy Peart]

I heard Lesnar may have Crohn's disease.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crohn%27s_disease

If so, it could be very serious. He'd most likely live, but he might have to have a colostomy bag installed due to the surgery. If that happens, Brock will most likely never be able to fight again. IOt's a shame because he really made the HW division interesting.

[pa®tci]

Former WWE superstar and current UFC Heavyweight champion Brock Lesnar is suffering from a bacterial infection in his intestinal tract, according to an ESPN report that was listed on the Top Stories section of their website.

Lesnar is expected to be released from a hospital in Bismarck, S.D. shortly, but UFC president Dana White wants Lesnar to check into the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota for further evaluation.

White reiterated that he’s not sure if Lesnar will be able to fight again.

That's the latest news.

[GameOver]

Scott Smith just knocked out Cung Le... YESSSSSSSSSSS! Fuck you and your kung fu! Honestly that was a great fight Le was whupping that ass and Scott caught 'em.

[pa®tci]

EA has been wrapping up the photo shoots for their upcoming MMA video game. During the sessions, fighters are asked to make various facial expressions such as a look of suprise or pain. During Fedor's shoot, the photographer noticed his face stayed the same, devoid of expression. The photographer then asked for Fedor to really try harder at which Fedor replied, "I don't make faces", and exited the room while retorting, "we are done here."

Fedor... is АWESOME! :D :D :D

[GameOver]

Fedor... is WESOME! :D :D :D

I've never really seen Fedor's face change during a fight. At least we know EA's MMA will be realistic.

[GameOver]

I've never been as happy as when I saw this card.

[Zombie]

It hasn't been posted but Brock Lesnar WILL be back this summer! I'm so glad he is able to come back, however I think he might lose his comeback fight just because he hasn't fought in so long and I think the illness he had will have a major impact in his training and trying to get back to shape and such. I hope I'm proven wrong, but when fighters take a long time between fights or get injured that keeps them out for awhile and make a come back doesn't usually work in their favor. We'll see though, we don't really know how it's affected Lesnar as everyone has pretty much been silent about his whole issue that he had. It's mainly just been, "He's sick, he may not fight again", "He's going to be tested, we'll know more later", and then "He's overcome it and will be able to return this year in the summer". So we'll see what happens.

As for recent UFC cards, they really have seemed like it's the same fighters every other month. I know there's been a lot of injuries lately but I think the last six months have been the worst for the UFC. I've actually have not ordered the last few PPV's just because they didn't seem interesting nor that exciting. I don't know if it's just me, but I'm seriously tired of seeing Randy Couture fighting. He's like one of the most boring fighters. Sure he looked pretty good against Coleman, but that's the keyword there, COLEMAN! That's not really that hard to look good against. Sure Bonner lost to him, but Bonner is an idiot and I don't think he really tries all that hard like he did when he was in TUF and competing for a contract. He knows his job is secure since Dana has said that he'll always have a home within the UFC because of his fight with Griffen and thats why I think he doesn't really try that hard anymore, but back to Randy.

I know he's an awesome fighter in his age bracket, but all his fights have is him holding them against the cage, holding them down with some GnP, but mostly just doing enough to win with the judges decision instead of actually going in to finish the fight. We all know he doesn't have that great of a chin and if he tries to "open" up things a little then he'll probably get KO'd so you know he's just trying to play it safe. Plus he doesn't really have that great of a record. I respect him for still doing what he does at his age but because he's still doing this at his age it's really making his fights pretty boring. Like I mentioned his last fight was pretty good but again that was against Coleman, had it been someone else that was younger, then I think it would have went to the judges unless Randy got ko'd.

The biggest dissapointment so far has been Vitor Belfort getting injured and now not going to be able to fight Anderson Silva. Instead it's going to be Damian Mia vs Anderson Silva. HUGE LETDOWN!!!! Maybe we'll see Wanderlei Silva vs Anderson Silva or Wandy vs Vitor? Those are two fights I'm wanting to see especially after seeing how good Wandy was against Bisping this last PPV.

[GameOver]

Who saw Jones destroy Vera? My God Jones is a fucking beast.

[GameOver]

Anybody watch UFC Saturday? Pretty damn good card overall. I like Fitch so much but he bores the fuck outta me.

[On a Pale Horse]

Yeah it was a good card. I am looking forward to Lesnar vs Carwin now. Carwin towered over Lesnar.

[GameOver]

Yeah it was a good card. I am looking forward to Lesnar vs Carwin now. Carwin towered over Lesnar.

Oh yeah should be a good match up. Lesnar can pretty much take anyone down at will so I'm leaning towards him. But Carwin has so much power in those hands.

[Toejam]

Yeah it was a good card. I am looking forward to Lesnar vs Carwin now. Carwin towered over Lesnar.

Carwin Destroyed Mir. Lesnar vs Carwin should be good, but Carwin in no way towered over Lesner.
Lesner's grin at seeing Mir knocked out cold was gold.

[Bill 1981]

Lesner's grin at seeing Mir knocked out cold was gold.

You know Brock is gonna enjoy their fight very much, just by that look alone.

[Toejam]

ha ha, nice gif.

http://i747.photobucket.com/albums/xx118/marovech/5bsba8.gif

[On a Pale Horse]

Good card for free tonight on Spike

http://www.ufc.com/index.cfm?fa=EventDetail.home&eid=2897
ADDED:
Roy Nelson knocked Struve out hard. Nelson keeps surprising me. Looks like a fat dude who gets lucky with a good punch here or there, but he keeps destroying his opponents. He's got some some game. I cant wait to see high a top contender.

[GameOver]

Roy Nelson knocked Struve out hard. Nelson keeps surprising me. Looks like a fat dude who gets lucky with a good punch here or there, but he keeps destroying his opponents. He's got some some game. I cant wait to see high a top contender.

I like both Nelson and Struve, but I knew Roy would win. Nelson is definitely a skilled guy... And he pissed off Dana just for being a fat guy with talent.

Also, gotdamn Gomi. Really wanted to see some crazy shit from him. I'll blame it on ring rust.

[Zombie]

Tonight was UFC113 and after the last two snore fest's of UFC PPV's I was NOT going to order this one tonight (I'm not counting the last WEC PPV, just UFC). I ended up being able to find it for free streaming online. I missed the first hour because I forgot about it but caught it from the 2nd hour and on.

I will say that I am glad that I didn't order the PPV. Yeah there was some ok fight's from what I saw but they ended 20 mins early. TWENTY FUCKING MINS EARLY!!! They could have shown another undercard fight in that time even if it did go to the judges. From the looks of the results 5 out of the 11 fight's went to the judges and 2 of them were on the televised part of the card. Now I'm not sure how many total undercard fight's they showed since I missed the first hour, but what I did see was 2 undercard fights and that would bring the total amount of fights televised to 7 unless they showed 1 or 2 more in that first hour?

If they did then I apologize, but they still could have technically shown another fight that had not been shown at the very end with as much time that was remaining. All they did was talk and recap everything for like 7-8 mins and then the very end credits rolled which recapped everything yet again. They could technically show the entire PPV in the whole 3 hours if they would cut out a lot of the BS they have between the fights. I swear they're worse than the WWE at wasting time in between matches. In WWE it's all scripted so anything in between is ment to fill in story lines or what not. In the UFC all they're doing is re-airing the shit that was showing already for 60-30 mins before the PPV even started on top of during the countdown show on spike and what have you.

In all other MMA PPV's that I've gotten that wasn't UFC, they have shown the entire card during the whole 3 hours and still ended before the actual 3 hour mark because they cut out all the in between BS and just go match after match. I think Affliction might have been the only one that was similar to the UFC where it would show undercards if it had time? Its been awhile I cant really remember lol.

As for the other two PPV's before this one tonight, I have never been more pissed after one than the last one. UFC 112. Immediatley after that PPV I went to the UFC website searching for a way to contact them or customer support. Of course I couldn't find any real contact dept or person so I just copy and pasted my letter to each category it allowed me in hoping SOMEONE would get it and maybe contact me back with a refund possibly. The one I'm talking about is when Anderson Silva clowned around with Mia and didn't end the fight when he could have and it ended up going to the judges. It wasn't just that fight alone but it was the other two fights before it as well. The PPV opened up like it was going to be a good one. There was 3 fights shown within the first hour of the PPV and I was getting pumped and then all of a sudden it just came to a complete hault and they ended up showing 3 fights in the last 2 hours of the PPV. The fight between Houghes and Gracie was boring as hell, another one that Matt could have finished early on but didn't and then the first right after was nothing but standing around and running away from each other (Penn and Edgar). Sure Edgar was trying to give his all but Penn just kept running away from him. He wasn't the same Penn, he didn't go for any takedowns or anything. Just was satisfied with standing and running away.

Then we had Silvia vs Mia. I didn't mind Silvia antics until the 3rd round when he basically stopped doing anything. Here he is telling the guy to engage with him but then he goes and does the same thing and stops trying to engage Mia? That match reminded me of how when Metallica and Guns N Roses was on tour and James got caught on fire from one of the pyro's and they had to stop their set and GnR/Axel basically could have came and saved the day and played an awesome/longer set because of what happened to James and Metallica but Axel got pissed and ended quitting and then the riot happened... Anderson Silva could have saved the PPV and ended the fight in the 1st or 2nd round, even in the 3rd at the latest and there could have been like 1 maybe even 2 more undercard fights shown after the main event but nope, he just went and took his time and let it go to the judges....

That's the only time I was so pissed at a PPV that I felt like I was ripped off and felt I should have got my money back. I also emailed UFC yet again this last week and still since no response I didn't order this PPV. Hell I might not order another PPV for a long time because they obviously don't care about their fans that spend $45/50 per PPV when there are 2 in one month or like 1 within two weeks of each other or something like that where they're really close to each other like the last two were.

Then of course at UFC 111 that's where we had GSP fight Hardy and he to didn't really try to finish the fight. He dominated Hardy but he didn't "beat" him IMO but don't get me wrong, Hardy didn't beat GSP either. Based on takedowns and control GSP won, but all the talk he said about what he was going to do to Hardy was nothing but talk. And then there were 2 other matches that went to the judges.

Oh and don't get me wrong. I don't mind fights going to the judges. If they're going at each other the entire 3-5 rounds whether it's on the ground or standing then I'm all for it, but when they just dance around the entire time or one guy does nothing but running away the whole time while one guy is trying to fight then that's what pisses me off, or when you have like in 111 where GSP and Fitch didn't really do anything to finish the match but basically laid on their opponent and ride them out the entire fight. That's what pisses me off. I would much prefer a great ground fight where there's reversal's, submissions attempts, GnP, etc... than a standing fight... I'm not one that will boo just cause it goes to the ground unless like I stated above when the guy who's controlling is contempt on just that and not on really trying to finish the fight.

As for tonight's PPV. I'm really glad on the results on the main event. I absolutely dislike Lyoto Machida because he's one of those guy's that just runs away a lot and I truly felt like he lost the last time he fought which was against Shogun. So I'm real happy Shogun knocked Lyoto the FUCK out and won the title finally. To me it was more like defending the title because everyone pretty much thought he won the first fight but it ended up going to Lyoto The Run Away Kid Machida... I know there will be a "rubber match" but it won't be immediate that's for sure and at least Machida isn't champion is all I care about right now.

The with Koschek vs Daley Koschek is another person I just can't stand and just hate the guy. Especially after the shit he pulled tonight. Basically Daley went and threw a knee at Josh's head while his knee's were down which is illegal but he TOTALLY MISSED him and Koschek went and threw himself back like if it connected and he was FAKING like it connected and luckily in the reply it showed that the knee totally missed his head. Even Daley's foot didn't touch Josh's head or eye and that's what he was trying to say I think but the Ref ended up NOT taking a point away and the fight started again. Obviously Josh didn't see the reply right away but even the crowd could see it didn't touch him and I think that's what ended gaining him even more heat against him..... Then you have the fact that all he did was take Daley down and just controlled him the entire time. I'll give him some tiny credit cause he was trying for a submission like a rear naked choke but he should have tried to stand with Daley a little since he's always talking about how great his stand up is now. To be honest the Koschek we saw tonight looked like the Koschek that first came to the ultimate fighter and knew nothing but wrestling. I know it's about taking away the other guy's stregnth and what not, but he could have did a little better and tried a lot harder to finish the fight then he did. He was another example of someone just content with being ahead and not doing to much to maybe get in trouble and just waste time with doing barely enough to not get it stood back up... Josh got the win but also got boo'd out of the arena. Now I can't wait till GSP beats the shit out of him yet again....

I definitely don't agree with what Daley did after the fight and punched Josh after the fight was over and the ref seperated them apart. I may not like Kos one bit, but that was just wrong and it hurts MMA as a whole when people do that. He didn't even know who had won the match yet and he just took a cheap shot at Kos like that. Dan the ref seperated him immediatley wrestling him to the cage. It was kind of funny how Joe Rogan said that was like the best shot Daley got on Koschek the entire fight lol but in the end it was completely wrong and he's going to be suspended and hopefully this doesn't hurt the UFC or MMA in trying to get it to network TV and or to more fans. Yet stuff like this is what add's fuel to the fire for people against MMA and the one's that think it's "Barbaric" and all.

It's just like on Strikeforce on CBS when after Shields fight and Miller came in the ring asking for his rematch and then all of a sudden Shields pushed Miller and then his corner (the Diaz brothers) started jumping him like a bunch of thugs that they are. I was starting to like Nick Diaz to because he seemed like he was coming around and wasn't being that bad of a sport recently but after that I lost all respect for him and his brother. Fuck them both...

Miller didn't do anything to start that, sure he shouldn't have maybe came into the ring after the fight but it happens all the time when the next person in line comes in and ask's for a rematch or if they're the next person to fight whoever just won they'll come in to try and hype their coming up match... It was wrong for Shields to push him and then his corner jumping him like a bunch of thugs... Sheilds should be stripped to be honest and him and his corner suspended, but we all know they're not going to do that...

Oh and the Strikeforce event was on a delay, they could have cut out that part that happened but they left it in. They cut away from it right away but then they kept showing the replay even after they came back from commercial. So again, something that probably should have been cut and not shown especially since it happened on network TV but they ended up still showing it just to generate ratings but it just add's more fuel to the protesters fire or more ammo for them...

I guess that's about it... I'll add some more later that I wanted to mention but kind of gotten way to long already lol...

[GameOver]

Then of course at UFC 111 that's where we had GSP fight Hardy and he to didn't really try to finish the fight. He dominated Hardy but he didn't "beat" him IMO but don't get me wrong, Hardy didn't beat GSP either. Based on takedowns and control GSP won, but all the talk he said about what he was going to do to Hardy was nothing but talk. And then there were 2 other matches that went to the judges.
I keep reading similar feelings about this fight and I don't understand it at all. GSP controlled the fight the entire time and tried to finish with multiple arm locks. Hardy being a tough bastard he is just wasn't going to tap. Granted GSP could have gone for a choke (RNC?) but regardless, without a shadow of a doubt, he beat Hardy

Oh and don't get me wrong. I don't mind fights going to the judges. If they're going at each other the entire 3-5 rounds whether it's on the ground or standing then I'm all for it, but when they just dance around the entire time or one guy does nothing but running away the whole time while one guy is trying to fight then that's what pisses me off, or when you have like in 111 where GSP and Fitch didn't really do anything to finish the match but basically laid on their opponent and ride them out the entire fight. That's what pisses me off. I would much prefer a great ground fight where there's reversal's, submissions attempts, GnP, etc... than a standing fight... I'm not one that will boo just cause it goes to the ground unless like I stated above when the guy who's controlling is contempt on just that and not on really trying to finish the fight.

GSP did GNP and go for subs. Fitch did not, at all. Were we watching the same fights?


I definitely don't agree with what Daley did after the fight and punched Josh after the fight was over and the ref seperated them apart. I may not like Kos one bit, but that was just wrong and it hurts MMA as a whole when people do that. He didn't even know who had won the match yet and he just took a cheap shot at Kos like that. Dan the ref seperated him immediatley wrestling him to the cage. It was kind of funny how Joe Rogan said that was like the best shot Daley got on Koschek the entire fight lol but in the end it was completely wrong and he's going to be suspended and hopefully this doesn't hurt the UFC or MMA in trying to get it to network TV and or to more fans. Yet stuff like this is what add's fuel to the fire for people against MMA and the one's that think it's "Barbaric" and a
He was fired.



Did anybody watch WEC 48? Great fights. Well Aldo vs. Faber was kind of boring but those leg kicks killed Faber.

[On a Pale Horse]

I am glad I watched that at a bar and didn't order it. Pretty boring night. The only good moment was the end of the main event.

Anyone think Kimbo will get cut? He looked completely lost and dominated by an entry level fighter. I like the whole Kimbo story and he was exciting to watch at first, but he had no business being there last night. Once an opponent gets the upper hand in fight he loses all composure and can't get back into the fight.

ADDDED: Appears likely Kimbo WILL be cut. Guess he can goto Strikeforce. Maybe some ratings grabbing fights like him vs Herschel Walker or Bob Sapp.

[GameOver]

I am glad I watched that at a bar and didn't order it. Pretty boring night. The only good moment was the end of the main event.

Anyone think Kimbo will get cut? He looked completely lost and dominated by an entry level fighter. I like the whole Kimbo story and he was exciting to watch at first, but he had no business being there last night. Once an opponent gets the upper hand in fight he loses all composure and can't get back into the fight.

ADDDED: Appears likely Kimbo WILL be cut. Guess he can goto Strikeforce. Maybe some ratings grabbing fights like him vs Herschel Walker or Bob Sapp.

Kimbo usually can't go past the first 3 minutes in a fight. But those slams were pretty awesome.

[Zombie]

Yeah I know what you are saying, what I ment about GSP "beating" Hardy was that he didn't beat him up like he was talking about. Yeah he controlled the fight, went for some subs, and did some GnP, but it wasn't really enough to beat up Hardy as Hardy looked like he didn't even get touched if I recall. I think his face was still perfect looking, and yes those arm locks were brutal and I can't believe Hardy didn't tap and glad his arm didn't snap either.

I just thought GSP could have done way more then he did to finish the fight. Yeah he was cautious on the feet because he obviously didn't want to get KO'd like he did with Serra, but GSP could have been a little more "brutal/active" on the ground like he was against Serra in their second fight and GSP got the TKO in that one with his knee's and doing good GnP. I to think he should have went for the choke since it looked like Hardy wasn't going to tap no matter what and if he didn't want to hurt him like by breaking his arm/leg or whatever then he could have gone for a choke and just put him to sleep if he didn't want to tap. Then lastly, I think he should have maybe did a little more stand up then he did. GSP has dominated standing before and I'm sure he could have out boxed/kicked Hardy and maybe even landed that one shot that could have ended the fight.

I know it's a lot easier to say what could have and should have been done, especially when we're not the one's in the ring/cage fighting and I know its a lot harder then it looks when you are the person in there fighting/wrestling as I've been on the other side when I used to wrestle and that's why when I was coaching I wouldn't yell out to much during the match trying to tell them what to do or to try because that's one thing I always hated because it's not as easy to doing something that someone says even though it may look like it on their end but they don't know where pressure is being put or where the momentium and what not will go if you let go of something and tried to do something else or whatever the case may be.

I'm just going by the way GSP has fought before and it was obvious he was playing it a little to safe, but I'll still rather watch GSP over most other fighters any PPV. I just can't wait till he goes and kicks Koscheks ass all over the cage. That fight is one that I'm not counting on a finish and if there is one then I'll be surprised. I have a feeling it's going to be much like his fight against Hardy and he's just going to dominate Kos on the ground at his own game. Maybe he'll get him to tap or put to sleep, but I don't think either will get a KO. I think GSP has kind of forgot how to dominate the standing position and just put everything into wrestling and built that as his strengths where as now his weakness is probably his standing game?

[On a Pale Horse]

This would be very entertaining if it were to go down. A pro boxer challenges Kimbo to a bareknuckle match under "London Prizefight Rules"

http://www.8countnews.com/news/125/ARTICLE/2632/2010-06-10.html

[GameOver]

Cro Cop tapped Barry and I nearly cried I was so fucking happy. War, Cro Cop, war!:sniffle:

[Zombie]

This would be very entertaining if it were to go down. A pro boxer challenges Kimbo to a bareknuckle match under "London Prizefight Rules"

http://www.8countnews.com/news/125/ARTICLE/2632/2010-06-10.html

Kimbo should take that fight. I think no matter what he does from here on out, one more loss is going to pretty much end him here in the US. Maybe there will still be some love for him overseas like in Japan or something, but I think he has nothing left to lose and might as well as go back to his roots and try it out.

While I truly feel that Kimbo's heart was in the right place and was really trying to become a legit MMA fighter, he's just to old to enter the world of MMA right now. People that are way younger than him have been training all their lives will tear him up. Even if he tries to stay in MMA and gets into Strikeforce for instance, he's just going to be one of those "freak show" attractions (which is why Japan and such want him) and he's never going to be a champion. Even if he were to go on a 5 fight win streak, that streak (if there is one) will more than likely be against other old new to MMA fighters. He'd fight someone like Hearshal Walker, and then who? Jose Canseco? that's what I mean that he'll never really be able to fight true MMA fighters without being exposed and embarrassed.

I like the guy, I'm sorry it didn't work out for him, I just think he needs to go back to his roots and be an underground type fighter. He'll make money doing that. Now if he loses doing that, then I'm sure he won't recover unless it's somewhere like Japan, but even then he'll still be a joke and people still won't take him seriously. If he's just looking to go someplace that will feed him amature fighters so he can "win" then I'll lose respect for him. At least he went and gave it his all and tried to become a real MMA fighter in the UFC, but as it was seen, he just can't keep up with the talent they have there.

I do feel somewhat bad the UFC let him go like they did, especially after using his status in there to generate ratings, but now, I do see why they did so, and I think it was more that they just didn't want him, but they to also probably felt all they could do with him was make him a sideshow attraction and being they want to be the number one MMA organazation they just can't have that. If they did that then they would just end up putting more has been fighters on their rosters just so they could have people for Kimbo to fight, but once they put either Kimbo or one of the other so called fighters that might have beaten Kimbo into the mix with real MMA fighters they all would have been exposed and would be nothing more than "jobbers" basically. A stepping stone if you will and it's definitely not what the UFC wants. I believe they're willing to give some of these so called fighters that make it big like in professional boxing or underground fighting, but once they throw them in there with a real MMA fighter whether it's a veteran or up and coming fighter and they get their asses kicked then it's bye bye just to prove to them that they were no where near the level that they thought they were or to prove to them, while they might have had success in another "combat type sport" it's a whole new/different level to fight in the UFC.

Brock Lesnar has been the exception... So far... We'll see what happens come in a few weeks when he fights Carwin. I truly hope Lesnar wins. I've been a fan of him since he first came into the WWF/E just because he was a real amature wrestler, kind of the same with Kurt Angle and of course when they left that's when I lost interest in WWF/E as well. If he loses his next fight then it's really going to matter what he does and or what happens when he fights again in what will pretty much determine if he stays with the UFC or not. There is a small part of me that thinks he might lose this fight, not because Shane is better than him or cause Lesnar is just a fraud and whatever else haters like to call him, but I truly think if he loses this fight it's because of what has happaned to him this past year with his sickness and not fighting for such a long time. I think Carwin has had what? At least 2 fights since then? You also got to wonder how much time he missed training and how that could effect him come July?

I bet everyone that the Lesnar we end up seeing in a few weeks is going to be a very basic wrestling, ground and pound game plan. I'm sure people think that's all he does anyways, which it kind of was, but it looked like he was evolving little by little each match he had and would try to stand a little more and stuff, but with the time missed, his illness, cage rust, etc... He's probably going to play it safe, try to stay away from trading with Carwin and look for takedowns and just smoother Carwin for most of the fight. I'm sure he'll try for the win/finish, but that's going to be with huge punches while smoothering Shane. I don't think he's going to try anything new or anything that's going to put him in danger, I'm sure he knows he has to win to continue making a name for himself and to make the haters and doubters believe in him that he is for real and not some dumb professional wrassler...

Now if he loses, than so what? I actually think that by him having the issue's he had this past year will end up benefiting him if he ends up losing. We all don't like to hear excuses on why fighters lost, but all that has happened with him well end up making it not as bad for him had he been in continous action all year and ended up losing. Kind of like cushion the fall if you want to say. Of course, while that may help him (excuse wise) on why he lost, it's going to depend so much on how he comes back after the loss (if he does end up losing.. <knocks on wood> in hopes he doesn't...) and of course who he fights. It sucks Lesnar wasn't able to get some type of warm up match before Carwin but when your the champion there is no warm up matches.

So we'll see what happens with Kimbo and Lesnar.

[TheShowstoppa]

So a buddy of mine (who I used to play pick-up football with regularly) is going to be on The Ultimate Fighter this season! How fucking kick ass is that? I'll be tuning in just to see who does what! Go Dan Head!

[Denzil]

So a buddy of mine (who I used to play pick-up football with regularly) is going to be on The Ultimate Fighter this season! How fucking kick ass is that? I'll be tuning in just to see who does what! Go Dan Head!

That rules! Will be keeping an eye out for him too.

[TheShowstoppa]

Got to stand around and get paid during the fight tonight and I thought it was fucking STELLAR! I don't care what anyone says, Silva got fucking lucky tonight and had he not connected that blow to the left eyebrow of Sonnen, it would be a different story right now. (Sonnen had a huge cut that probably hurt like hell when Silva rocked him, allowing him to maneuver into the triangle choke hold.)

[GameOver]

Got to stand around and get paid during the fight tonight and I thought it was fucking STELLAR! I don't care what anyone says, Silva got fucking lucky tonight and had he not connected that blow to the left eyebrow of Sonnen, it would be a different story right now. (Sonnen had a huge cut that probably hurt like hell when Silva rocked him, allowing him to maneuver into the triangle choke hold.)

No, Sonnen got sloppy which is why he got caught. Didn't Sonnen get that cut in the 3rd or 4th?


ADDED:

At least Silva now knows that's what happens when you train with and have Steven Seagal in your corner.

[TheShowstoppa]

Sonnen got that cut in the fourth with a quick elbow tap in the eye. Saw the replay and it didn't look that brutal, but the aftermath was FUCKED up!

I'm glad Sonnen gave Silva a run for his money. Silva's getting too cocky and he got his ass handed to him in this fight. If there's a rematch (if Silva keeps the title through the next round of fights), I more than believe Sonnen can take it away. Either way - I say again, if this had gone to decision, it would have been the end of Silva's reign.

[Denzil]

Sonnen got that cut in the fourth with a quick elbow tap in the eye. Saw the replay and it didn't look that brutal, but the aftermath was FUCKED up!

I'm glad Sonnen gave Silva a run for his money. Silva's getting too cocky and he got his ass handed to him in this fight. If there's a rematch (if Silva keeps the title through the next round of fights), I more than believe Sonnen can take it away. Either way - I say again, if this had gone to decision, it would have been the end of Silva's reign.

Just proved that Anderson is actually human, so there is now a gameplan there for beating him now. Would love for Sonnen to be the one to take the title off him.

[Zombie]

Anderson Silva did NOT get his ass beaten nor did he get it handed to him. He may have gotten a little lucky, but that's the nature of the sport. You can't count anyone out until the fight/match is completely done.

All Sonnen did was take Silva down and did little punches to Silva that never really threatened him nor did they hurt him. Ever since the first round started Silva looked like a totally different person, he just wasn't himself... At all... I know he doesn't want to make any excuses (especially if he lost) but if his rib injury was that bad then that could have been the reason why he just didn't look all that good or himself for that matter. I was thinking that maybe he just didn't care and was wanting to lose the fight so he could "drop" the belt so he could just move to light heavyweight without having to worry about cutting to 185 again to defend the middleweight title after fighting at 205 a couple of times.

Although, when Silva was himself of sorts he was kicking ass and I think he could have won the fight in the 3rd I think it was when he got the takedown on Sonnen, but then he went and STAYED on the ground with him?! What the hell was up with that? It was clear he had the advantage standing and Anderson has never taken the fight to the ground especially with someone who specializes in the ground game and would always make the other guy stand up if he knocked them down or whatever. Though, when I was here yelling at him to get away and stand back up (like if he could really hear me huh lol) he ends up getting reversed and then stuck on the bottom for the rest of the round.... Again....

I really honestly thought he lost the match once he got taken down yet again in the 5th because he just couldn't get up from being on the ground once he got taken down, even in the first or second rounds when he was a lot more fresh. Then out of no where he pulled off the submission! I was happy!

Even though what happened last time Anderson fought that wasn't enough to make me not like the guy or not root for him. Heck I wasn't even that pissed until the 4th and 5th rounds and part of the 3rd when he wouldn't put away Mia and then started to run away. To me that doesn't really prove a point if the other guy pissed him off by his trash talking. I would have thought if he wanted to prove a point he would have went and ended it as fast as he could and not drag it on for the entire 5 rounds.

Maybe that's why Silva stayed on the ground with Sonnen because he didn't want people to think he was going to start pulling the same thing again? Who knows? But it was clear who really got a beating in that fight. If you saw their faces, Anderson didn't even have like a scratch or not even a lump/bruise on him yet Sonnen looked all fucked up just from the few hits Anderson landed. That kind of shows you the kind of power Sonnen was hitting Anderson with compared to what Anderson hit Sonnen with.

However, it must really suck right now to be Chael Sonnen! Just to think and KNOW you had the match won and you were 2 min's away from becoming the NEW Middleweight Champion and beating the worlds best P4P fighter out there, only to FUCKING TAP OUT and losing it all!!!! lol

Sonnen only has himself to blame for losing that fight. If I was him and I was that close on winning I would not have tapped, no way no how, I would have let him either put me to sleep or break my arm/leg or whatever limb he had or until the ref stopped it. There's just no way I would have tapped being that close to winning the championship. It's clear to that he jumped the gun because I don't think he wanted to, but Silva probably just caught his arm in just the right way to make it that much painful or something that maybe caused his instinct's to automatically tap or something and once he did he realized "Oh shit, that's not what I wanted to do" but by then it was already to late.

Also, I think they should have been stood up so many times in the fight because Sonnen wasn't really doing anything to ADVANCE HIS POSITION! All he was doing was just laying there and throwing little punches that weren't hurting Anderson in any way. If anything they were probably just more annoying than hurting, but the top guy is supposed to be trying to advance to another position in order to not get it stood back up and Sonnen just wasn't really doing that, nor was he trying any submissions. Same thing with Anderson, he wasn't really doing anything on the bottom either. He was just basically holding Sonnen so it could get stood back up, but the ref just wouldn't. When he did start doing stuff off his back was when it became obvious the ref wasn't going to stand them up and like I mentioned above, it's funny how Anderson did way more damage to Sonnen from the bottom and on the feet even though he was the one that should have been looking way worse if Sonnen had been fighting to win and get the fight stopped. I truly think Sonnen was just trying to win by points/judges after the second round and just try to survive and that to cost him the fight.

Pretty good PPV though overall... Go Anderson Silva!!!!

[GameOver]

Brock vs Cain tonight. Very excited about this one.

[On a Pale Horse]

Well I guess this debunks the Lesnar back to WWE rumors. Its a little surprising as I dont think Lesnar has the experience to be a coach, but I guess he does have some wins over big names and is a guaranteed ratings draw. Should be fun.

http://mmajunkie.com/news/22057/brock-lesnar-and-junior-dos-santos-named-the-ultimate-fighter-13-coaches.mma

(doh! typo in Lesnar's name, could mod fix?)

[On a Pale Horse]

So tonight I am going to the Strikeforce HW tournament in NJ. Some good fights including Fedor vs Antonio "Bigfoot" Silva and Arlovski vs Kharmilov. Fedor and Silva are two of my fav fighters, so I will enjoy seeing them go head to head in person.

** MODS... could you rename this thread to General MMA Discussion or something? PRIDE is defunct, and there are not enough MMA fans here to have different threads for UFC, Strikeforce etc.. **

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/180995_10150090282868229_61345743228_6323725_36647 4_n.jpg

[The Dark Vampire]

UFC buy Strikeforce

LAS VEGAS -- In a transaction that will forever change the mixed martial arts world, Zuffa, the parent company of the Ultimate Fighting Championship, has purchased its top competitor, Strikeforce.

UFC president Dana White spoke to MMA Fighting exclusively about why the historic purchase happened, the terms of the deal, what this means for the Strikeforce brand and fighters and much more.
Credit>http://www.mmafighting.com/2011/03/12/zuffa-purchases-strikeforce/

[On a Pale Horse]

UFC has now bought Pride, WEC, and Strikeforce. Reminds me of WWE buying ECW and WCW.

Its not clear if they will cross promote yet. Dana White says both companies will be kept separate, but I think they will eventually give in and do super fights.

[ShinobiMusashi]

UFC has now bought Pride, WEC, and Strikeforce. Reminds me of WWE buying ECW and WCW.



I think there were lessons to be learned about how the WWE handled that, and what it did to the wrestling industry. Wasn't there a shift in networks(Tnn or something) for the WWE around the same time that they absorbed the WCW/ECW(like how the UFC is moving from Spike to FX/Fox)? I don't know too much about wrestling. It is a very similar situation though. Hopefully the UFC can learn from the WWE's mistakes, but it may be too late.

Not sure if all of Zuffa's recent moves are for the better. We will have to wait, and see. At this point, I don't like the way Zuffa handled the WEC. They should have kept it alive, and invested a little more into it. The WEC situation is very similar to the ECW's in pro wrestling. Both had a lot of unexplored potential, and were better for their respective industries as a whole(mainly the development of new talent) while they were alive. Changes needed to be made for them to continue to grow, but Zuffa, and the WWE were too lazy, or scared to take a chance, and felt like folding them, and absorbing their talent were better ideas.

Note: I am referring to the original ECW of the 90's, not the recent WWE revival. I know they were not originally owned by the WWE, and that they went bankrupt, but Mcmahon had the oppurtunity to buy it, and keep it alive in 2001, and he chose not to.

[On a Pale Horse]

2 big fights this month.. LESNAR VS OVEREEM, and JON JONES VS MACHIDA. I can't decide which one I am more excited about.

[On a Pale Horse]

UFC 146 is one of the best cards I've ever seen:

Heavyweight Championship: Brazil Junior Dos Santos (c) vs. Netherlands Alistair Overeem[2]
Heavyweight bout: United States Cain Velasquez vs. United States Frank Mir[2]
Heavyweight bout: Brazil Antonio Silva vs. United States Roy Nelson[2]
Heavyweight bout: New Zealand Mark Hunt vs. Netherlands Stefan Struve[2]
Heavyweight bout: Brazil Gabriel Gonzaga vs. United States Shane del Rosario[2]

Overeem vs Santos will be awesome, both are on long win streaks and both heavy devastating striking power. I am going with Overeem.

Velasquez vs Mir should be pretty brutal. I will go with V.

Silvia vs Nelson will be fun for me. They are two of my favorite fighters. Silva's coming off an embarrassing upset loss and needs redemption. Nelson will likely be cut from UFC if he loses. I am going with Silva but woudlnt be surprised if Nelson lands a KO punch.