Thursday, March 31, 2011
UFC 132: Fitch out, New opponent for Penn?
The UFC 127 Main Event between B.J. Penn and Jon Fitch was supposed to decide who would be the #1 Contender for the UFC Welterweight Championship. When the fight ended in a majority draw, it didn't take long for a rematch to be scheduled. It was first revealed by MMAWeekly this evening that Jon Fitch will not be able to go on July 2nd due to an undisclosed injury suffered during training.
It didn't take long for one Top Ten Welterweight contender to come out of the woodwork. Carlos Condit tweeted after he learned of the announcement:
It would be an honor to fight a legend like BJ Penn, one of my favorite fighters ever. If the call comes, I would take the fight in a second
Sunday, March 27, 2011
UFC Best of 2010 Blu-Ray drops this Tuesday
The UFC Best of 2010 Blu-Ray drops March 29th online and in stores everywhere. Here is the full list of fights to appear on the blu ray edition (the blu-ray boasts 25 bonus fights while the dvd has 10).
blu-ray.com
Main Feature:
• Sean Sherk vs. Evan Dunham
• Joe Stevenson vs. George Sotiropoulos
• Matt Hughes vs. B.J. Penn
• Carlos Condit vs. Rory MacDonald
• Yoshihiro Akiyama vs. Chris Leben
• Anderson Silva vs. Chael Sonnen
• Lyoto Machida vs. Shogun Rua
• Rampage Jackson vs. Rashad Evans
• Brandon Vera vs. Jon Jones
• Jon Jones vs. Vladimir Matyushenko
• Brock Lesnar vs. Shane Carwin
• Brock Lesnar vs. Cain Velasquez
Disc 1 (Bonus):
• Cole Miller vs. Dan Lauzon
• Efrain Escudero vs. Evan Dunham
• Melvin Guillard vs. Waylon Lowe
• Diego Sanchez vs. John Hathaway
• Dustin Hazelett vs. Rick Story
• Efrain Escudero vs. Charles Oliveira
• Matt Serra vs. Chris Lytle 2
• Dan Hardy vs. Carlos Condit
• Diego Sanchez vs. Paulo Thiago
• Dennis Siver vs. Andre Winner
• George Sotiropoulos vs. Joe Lauzon
• Matt Riddle vs. Sean Pierson
• Jim Miller vs. Charles Oliveira
• Georges St. Pierre vs. Josh Koscheck 2
Disc 2 (Bonus):
• Junior Dos Santos vs. Gabriel Gonzaga
• Kimbo Slice vs. Matt Mitrione
• Mirko Cro Cop vs. Pat Barry
• Chuck Liddell vs. Rich Franklin
• Brendan Schaub vs. Chris Tuchscherer
• Krysztof Soszynski vs. Stephan Bonnar 2
• Stefan Struve vs. Christian Morecraft
• Junior Dos Santos vs. Roy Nelson
• Randy Couture vs. James Toney
• CB Dollaway vs. Joe Doerksen
• Phil Davis vs. Tim Boetsch
Jon Jones visits the 'The Tonight Show' Full Video
Jones knocked it out of the park here. Rest of the video after the jump.
Flashback: Rumina Sato's Flying Armbar
Shooto- Devilock Fighters
January 15, 1999
Tokyo, Japan
Rumina Sato submits Charles Diaz via flying armbar (Round 1, 0:06)
It's the perfect weekend to take a look back at some of the greatest submissions of all time. My brother, who introduced me to MMA years ago when he brought over PRIDE dvds on the weekends, showed me this gem earlier today during submission discussions. Enjoy.
Bellator 38: Richard Hale's inverted triangle finish
When 2011 is all said and done this past Saturday may remain responsible for 2 submission of the year finalists.
Korean Zombie Twister GIF
The Korean Zombie (Chan Sung Jung) scored submission of the night honors with this move (the first twister in UFC History) over Leonard Garcia on a Saturday Night in Seattle, Washington. Possibly the most violent submission you can use on your opponent.
via: cagepages
UFC Fight Night 24: Korean Zombie, McDonald, Figueroa, Hendricks Score Bonuses
UFN 24 Results: Davis topples Lil' Nog
It took about a little more than one round for Davis to figure out how to complete a single leg take down on the talented Brazilian fighter. From then on it was just a clinic by very calm and collective gentleman out of PA they call 'Mr. Wonderful'. The Seattle crowd was very impatient during this one... maybe not the fight they expected from the Light Heavyweight with a lot of hype and upside behind him. For Davis, a name like Nogueira on his list of victims catapults him into the Top 10 of the most crowded division in the sport.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
UFN 24 Results: Johnson overpowers Hardy for 3 Rounds
Anthony *Rumble* Johnson performed what Joe Rogan described as a grappling clinic on Dan Hardy at the Key Arena in Seattle tonight. Johnson was unable to make Hardy tap late with a promising looking side choke and neck crank. Hardy showed a lot of heart dropping his 3rd straight inside the Octagon.
While Hardy's draw and antics will prove enough to land him another fight with the UFC ... one more loss would be a different story. Johnson was coming off of a loss to Koscheck back in 2009 along with some knee and weight issues.
UFN 24 Results: The Korean Zombie twists 'Bad Boy'
Go ahead and chalk up another few thousand Korean Zombie T's sold.
Chan Sung Jung just avenged his controversial Split Decision "Fight of the Year" loss last Spring by submitting Leonard Garcia with 1 second remaining in the 2nd Round... via twister! The First Twister submission in the History of the UFC. Eddie Bravo will be a name you will hear a lot this week.
koreanzombieshirt.com
UFC Fight Night 24: Nogueira vs. Davis Full Results
Preliminary Card:
• Nik Lentz (21-3-2) defeats Waylon Lowe (10-4) via guillotine choke (Round 3, 2:24)
• Aaron Simpson (8-2) defeats Mario Miranda (12-3) via UD (30-27, 30-27, 30-26)
• Johny Hendricks (10-1) defeats TJ Waldburger (13-6) via TKO (punches) (Round 1, 1:35)
Facebook Live Stream:
• Christian Morecraft (7-1) defeats Sean McCorkle (10-2) via standing guillotine choke (Round 2, 4:10)
Morecraft basically put McCorkle to sleep standing up and just let him drop. Has to be submission of the night.edit: Then Korean Zombie happened 3 hours later.
• Michael McDonald (12-1) defeats Edwin Figueroa (7-1) via UD (30-27 x 3)
Although McDonald dominated on the scorecards, Figueroa put on a great show as well. He escaped every submission attempt "Mayday" threw at him during a grueling second round for both fighters. This one should be played during the Spike TV Broadcast.
• John Hathaway (15-1) defeats Kris McCray (5-3) via Split Decision (28-29, 29-28, 29-28)
• Mackens Semerzier (6-3) defeats Alex Caceres (4-3) via rear naked choke (Round 1, 3:18)
This one wasn't even close.
• Mike *Maniac Cop* Russow (14-1) defeats Jon Madsen (7-1) via TKO (Round 2, 5:00)
This fight was stopped by the doctor after the 2nd Round due to Madsen only having one eye left to look out of.
Main Card:
• Chan Sung Jung (11-3) defeats Leonard Garcia (15-7-1) via Twister (Round 2, 4:59)
• Amir Sadollah (5-2) defeats DaMarques Johnson (12-9) via tapout (strikes) (Round 2, 3:27)
Sadollah elbowed Johnson in the face until he quit.
• Anthony Johnson (9-3) defeats Dan Hardy (23-9) via UD (30-27 x 3)
• Phil Davis (9-0) defeats Antonio Rogerio Nogueria (19-5) via UD (30-27 x 3)
Cruz vs. Faber headed for UFC 132, This time it's for the Title
• Bantamweight Championship: Dominick Cruz (C) (17-1) vs. Urijah Faber (25-4)
• B.J. Penn (16-7-2) vs. Jon Fitch (23-3-1)
• Melvin Guillard (27-8-2) vs. Shane Roller (10-3)
• George Sotiropoulos (14-3) vs. Evan Dunham (11-2)
• Tito Ortiz (15-8-1) vs. Ryan Bader (12-1)
• Dennis Siver (18-7) vs. Matt Wiman (13-5)
UFN 24: Nogueira vs. Davis Main Card Pick Em
Tonight's Free Spike TV Main Card may be one of the better ones the UFC has offered us in quite some time. Is Lil' Nog just a stepping stone for Phil "Mr. Wonderful" Davis, a fighter who many believe is destined to collide with Light Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones down the road. Or can Nogueira get back on track after a not too impressive UFC run so far?
What about Dan Hardy? Will he be tentative after getting dropped by Carlos Condit in front of his home crowd last October? Can Anthony Johnson come out blazing early to avoid tiring out in the later rounds? How about Leonard Garcia vs. The Korean Zombie II. Lets take a stab at the 4 fights Spike TV will rock via the airwaves tonight.
• Antonio Rogerio Nogueira (+210) vs. Phil Davis (-280)
Davis should take down Lil Nog early and give birth to some ultraviolence via his fists. The fact that me or anyone else is picking Davis shouldn't come as a surprise. He's a monster favorite in this one and many are already crowning him as the only man who can give Jon Jones a fair fight. What will shock you is that I'm taking Davis to beat the BJJ Black Belt Rogerio via submission.
• Dan Hardy (+160) vs. Anthony Johnson (-200)
If Johnson comes out guns blazing he may be able to finish off Hardy early. If this fight becomes a war as advertised where these two stand and trade I give Hardy the edge as the fights wears on. His cardio is far superior to Johnson and I believe it's what will get him a much needed W here. Hardy via Split Decision.
• Amir Sadollah (-260) vs. DaMarques Johnson (+200)
Johnson is the 3rd fighter to show up on this card opposite Sadollah due to a couple of untimely injuries. Sadollah would've beaten the other two just like he'll beat Johnson. Sadollah via UD.
• Leonard Garcia (+100) vs. Chan Sung Jung (-130)
A rematch of the instant classic that took place during WEC 48 almost a year ago now goes down tonight. There's no way this fight could live up to the first time these two guys met! Jung retired his Zombie status when he was knocked out by a Head Kick via George Roop following his fight with Garcia. Garcia has gone 1-1 since defeating the Jung, scoring another controversial decision victory over Nam Phan, who was originally slated to take on Garcia in a rematch tonight but was forced out due to an injury. It's not really Garcia's fault that judges don't know how to judge and seem to really drop the ball during his fights in particular. I believe the way he continues to move forward for the duration of his fights throwing more and more meaningless punches as the fights wears on confuses judges who may or may not be half dead during most fights. I'll take Garcia here via some form of robbery.
UFN 24: Facebook Prelim Pick EM
Tune in to see if the hype is real Saturday Night when Michael McDonald (left) makes his UFC Bantamweight debut in Seattle against the undefeated Edwin Figueroa.
• Alex Caceres vs. Mackens Semerzier
Bruce Leeroy should be able to pull this one off if he doesn't try and get too fancy. Caceres via submission.
• Jon Madsen vs. Mike Russow
After laying on guys for his first three fights in the UFC, Madsen impressed by scoring a violent TKO victory over Gilbert Yvel last October. The KO Power of Russow will make Madsen want to think twice about standing up even though Russow is well versed on the ground himself. This is one of the tougher ones to call but I'll go with Madsen via decision .
• John Hathaway vs. Kris McCray
This should be a lock. Hathaway via UD.
• Michael McDonald vs. Edwin Figueroa
McDonald will be ready to shine in front of his biggest audience to date. TKO victory!
• Sean McCorkle vs. Christian Morecraft
Wow what a way to start of a free Facebook card. Both of these guys only have one loss on their respective records, both by way of Stefan Struve. McCorkle's submissions prove to be the deciding factor in this one ... Big Sexy McCorkle via submission.
UFC 128: 9-1
2011 YTD: 50-32
UFN 24 Fight Week: Dan Hardy visits Bruce Lee's grave
Dan Hardy visits the grave of the most Legendary Martial Artist of all time during Fight Week in Seattle.
Friday, March 25, 2011
Thursday, March 24, 2011
FutureViolence: TUF 13 Finale
Two of the most exciting Lightweights...scratch that.... two of the most exciting Mixed Martial Artists in the World will do battle on June 4th in Vegas. This contest could very well decide who will be the next #1 contender in the very crowded UFC Lightweight Division.
View the full card here.
UFN 24: Hardy vs. Johnson Video Preview
Dan *The Outlaw* Hardy and Anthony *Rumble* Johnson plan to stand and bang this Saturday night in Seattle.
Humble Champion Jon Jones to appear on "The Tonight Show"
Newly crowned UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones will appear as a guest on "The Tonight Show" at 11:35 EST Tonight. Before Jones became the youngest UFC Champion in history this past Saturday he also served up some vigilante justice with his coaches (Mike Winklejohn and Greg Jackson) in the streets of New Jersey. Tune in tonight and catch up with the current most interesting man in the universe : Jonny *Bones* Jones.
UFC 130: Edgar vs. Maynard III Poster Revealed
This Card is stacked top to bottom like Christina Hendricks.
Main Card:
• Lightweight Championship: Frankie Edgar (C) (-140) vs. Gray Maynard (+110)
• Quinton *Rampage* Jackson (-260) vs. Matt Hamill (+200)
• Frank Mir (-115) vs. Roy Nelson (-115)
• Stefan Struve vs. Travis Browne
• Brian Stann (-110) vs. Jorge Santiago (-120)
Preliminary Card (Spike TV)
• Thiago Alves (-220) vs. Rick *The Horror* Story (+175)
• Miguel Torres vs. Brad Pickett
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
UFC Toronto Fan Expo Confirms 25 Fighters
The UFC released the list of fighters that will appear in Toronto for autograph sessions, photographs & seminars.
The Expo will take place at the Direct Engery Centre in Toronto on April 29 & 30th.
Here is the full list released earlier today:
• UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones
• UFC Middleweight Champion Anderson Silva
• UFC Heavyweight Champion Cain Velasquez
• UFC Hall of Famer Royce Gracie
• UFC Hall of Famer Chuck Liddell
• Former UFC 2 Division Champion B.J. Penn (pictured)
• UFC Bantamweight Champion Dominick Cruz
• Former UFC Heavyweight Champion Frank Mir
• Former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Rashad Evans
• Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
• Josh Koscheck
• Ryan Bader
• Shane Carwin
• Clay Guida
• Anthony Pettis
• Stephan Bonnar
• Brendan Schaub
• Matt Mitrione
• Jon Fitch
• Miguel Angel Torres
• Carlos Condit
• Joe Lauzon
• Cole Miller
• Sam Stout
• Jonathan Brookins
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
UFC Promotes Strikeforce on PPV
Consummate professional Mike Goldberg delivers his first ever Official Strikeforce Promo on the air.
via: fightofthenight
Sunday, March 20, 2011
UFC Fight Night 24: Nogueira vs. Davis Updated Poster
UFC Fight Night 24: Nogueira vs. Davis
March 26, 2011
Key Arena - Seattle, Washington
Broadcast Live and Free on Spike TV
Yesterday we watched as Jon Jones picked apart Mauricio *Shogun* Rua to become the youngest UFC Champion in the history of the promotion. Next weekend we get to see the man many (including myself) believe may be he only challenge for Mr. Jones at 205, the undefeated 4 time NCAA Division 1 Wrestling All American Phil *Mr. Wonderful* Davis.
Main Card (Spike TV):
• Antonio Rogerio Nogueira (+220) vs. Phil Davis (-300)
• Dan Hardy vs. Anthony Johnson
• Amir Sadollah vs. DaMarques Johnson
• Leonard Garcia vs. Chan Sung Jung
Preliminary Card:
• Alex Caceres vs. Mackens Semerzier
• Jon Madsen vs. Mike Russow
• John Hathaway vs. Kris McCray
• Michael McDonald vs. Edwin Figueroa
• Sean McCorkle vs. Christian Morecraft
• Johny Hendricks vs. TJ Waldburger
• Mario Miranda vs. Aaron Simpson
• Waylon Lowe vs. Nik Lentz
UFC 128 Results: Jones dominates Shogun, Faber earns title shot
photo: ESPN/EdMulholland
Main Card:
• Jon Jones (13-1) defeats Mauricio *Shogun* Rua (19-5) via TKO (strikes) (Round 3, 2:37) to become UFC Light Heavyweight Champion (the youngest champion in UFC history)
• Urijah Faber (25-4) defeats Eddie Wineland (18-7-1) via UD (29-28 x 3) and secures a shot for the UFC Bantamweight Title currently held by Dominick Cruz
• Jim Miller (20-2) serves Kamal Shalorus (7-1-2) with his first loss via TKO (Round 3, 2:15)
• Nate Marquardt (31-10-2) defeats Dan Miller (13-5) via UD (30-27 x 3)
• Brendan Schaub (8-1) ends the UFC career of Mirko *Cro Cop* Filipovic (27-9-2) via TKO (Round 3, 3:44) * Schaub earned himself a $70,000 Knockout of the Night Bonus
Spike TV Prelim Card:
• Luiz Cane (11-3) defeats Eliot Marshall (10-3) via TKO (punches) (Round 1, 2:15)
• Edson Barboza (8-0) defeats Anthony Njokuani (13-5) via UD (29-28 x 3) * Both Fighters were awarded $70,000 Fight of the Night Bonuses
Facebook Prelim Live Card:
• Mike Pyle (21-7-1) defeats Ricardo Almeida (13-5) via UD (29-28 x 3)
• Gleison Tibau (22-7) defeats Kurt Pellegrino (16-6) via Split Decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
Preliminary Card:
• Joseph Benavidez (14-2) defeats Ian Loveland (14-8) via UD (29-28, 30-27, 30-27)
• Nick Catone (9-2) defeats Constantinos Philippou (7-2) via UD (30-27 x 3)
• Erik Koch (12-1) defeats Raphael Assuncao (16-4) via KO (punch) (Round 1, 2:32) * Koch was also awarded a $70,000 Knockout of the Night Bonus
Saturday, March 19, 2011
UFC 128 Pick Em
Urijah Faber (left) makes his UFC debut tonight against Eddie Wineland (right) for the right to a title shot and potentially a TUF 14 coaching gig opposite Dominick Cruz (CombatLifestyle)
Main Card:
• Light Heavyweight Championship: Mauricio *Shogun* Rua (C) vs. Jon *Bones* Jones
Jones via God and Pound
• Urijah Faber vs. Eddie Wineland
I believe that Eddie Wineland would have a great shot at anyone in the Bantamweight Division not named Urijah of Dominick. Faber via submission.
• Jim Miller vs. Kamal Shalorus
Miller will frustrate the Prince early and win either via DQ or Dominant UD.
• Nate Marquardt vs. Dan Miller
Neither of the Miller Bros. have ever been finished. Marquardt is fiending for, and was expecting a stand and bang war for his next fight (requesting Wanderlei, preparing for Akiyama up until the awful tragedy in Japan). He shouldn't have a problem winning this one wherever he'd like... I just don't see him finishing it. Marquardt via UD.
• Mirko *Cro Cop* Filipovic vs. Brendan Schaub
As long as Brendan stays true to what he's been saying about not going all Pat Barry in there with his Idol he should be fine. Schaub via TKO.
UFC 128: A Case for Shogun, A Case for Bones
Has there ever been a Main Event this big on this short of notice in the history of MMA? While Jones opened and remains as a fairly large favorite, this fight is about as unpredictable as it gets.
• A Case for Shogun:
Shogun has the advantage the longer the fight stays standing. The veteran CAN handle the unorthodox striking of Jones. After the youngster lands some flashy spinning back elbows and/or kicks, that'll be enough to lull him into false set of comfort and set up his overhand right. Shogun will test the jaw and the temple of Jones the longer this fight goes. What does he resort to when he's in trouble? Well we haven't seen him trouble yet but I'm sure it's the same thing every wrestler resorts to when they are in trouble, wrestling. Shogun's take down defense isn't anything to write home to mom about. If and when he does get taken down, he needs to stay out of the crucifix... he needs to stay busy and somehow match Jones freakish energy. If Jones is stubborn enough to stand with Shogun for an extended period of time and get into a leg kick war with Shogun, it's Shogun's fight. Again... the longer this one stays standing, and if it enters those Championship Rounds...Advantage Shogun.
• A Case for Jones:
When I look at Jones vs. Matyushenko, I have a tough time believing that if he really wanted to, Jones could do the exact same thing to anyone at 205 not named Phil or Rashad. Does he really want to take his chance standing and trading with a striker of Shogun's caliber? I'm sure it sounds like fun on a Saturday night and it'd make for a more entertaining fight for the fans...but Jones wants the belt NOW. Takedown...crucifix... lightning fast bows. Advantage Bones.
Friday, March 18, 2011
UFC 128: Shogun vs. Jones Weigh In Results
• Light Heavyweight Championship: Mauricio *Shogun* Rua (C) (205) vs. Jon Jones (205)
• Urijah Faber (135.5) vs. Eddie Wineland (135.5)
• Nate Marquardt (186) vs. Dan Miller (185)
• Mirko *Cro Cop* Filipovic (229) vs. Brendan Schaub (245)
• Jim Miller (155.5) vs. Kamal Shalorus (155)
Spike T.V. Card:
• Luiz Cane (205.5) vs. Eliot Marshall (205)
• Edson Barboza (155.5) vs. Anthony Njokuani (155)
Facebook Live Stream:
• Ricardo Almeida (170) vs. Mike Pyle (171)
• Kurt Pellegrino (156) vs. Gleison Tibau (155)
Prelim Card:
• Joseph Benavidez (136) vs. Ian Loveland (135)
• Erik Koch (145) vs. Raphael Assuncao (145)
• Nick Catone (194) vs. Costantinos Philippou (195)
Jon Jones - In The Moment Full Episode
Missed UFC Presents: Jon Jones - In The Moment on Spike TV Last Night because you were too busy getting smashed for St. Paddys Day and/or keeping a close watch on those brackets? No big deal. We gotchoooo covered.
Brock Lesnar - This Is Who I Am
" This guy's in my way and that's the only thing I give a shit about. He's in my way to get my title back. I was... and I will be again... the UFC Heavyweight Champion of the World."
photo: BloodyElbow
Brock reminds you what he's all about after the jump off -
ESPN Sport Science: The Kicking Power of Shogun
Shogun's kick registered as the hardest strike EVER recorded in the Sport Science lab at 2749 lbs of force. (39 miles per hour). If Shogun can keep the fight standing look for him to employ the same game plan he did for his first fight against Machida by taking out the chicken legs of Mr. Bones.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Flashback: UFC 113: Machida vs. Shogun 2
"Look how they massacred my boy."
Full video of Machida vs. Shogun 2 after the jump off for anyone who forgot how much of a killer Shogun is.
Can Shogun derail the Jon Jones Hype Train?
All Aboard the Jon Jones Hype Train.
Next Stop. New Jersey.
It was one of those multiple orgasm night's for the world premier combat sports promotion two weeks in Sin City. An impressive preliminary card led into a not so impressive Main Card... at least that's what Mandalay Bay's finest felt early on. The Pay Per View broadcast kicked off with a contest between Miguel Torres and Antonio Banuelos. Vegas was not impressed. Both fighters were met with a smattering of boos from many of the nearly 11,000 in attendance.
Patience Young Skywalker.
Two events would follow that made that game they played in Texas the following day as exciting as The L.A. Clippers before they drafted Blake Griffin.
Jon Jones smothers Ryan Bader and earns himself a surprise title shot at Mauricio *Shogun* Rua in just 4 weeks. Fans in attendance and those watching around the world watch in real time as Joe Rogan ask Jones if he wants a shot at Shogun. In true old school World Wrestling Federation fashion, Shogun enters the Octagon and approves of his new opponent.
What could top this moment? How about Middleweight Champ Anderson Silva's Front Kick KO of forner training partner Vitor Belfort...a kick that Steven Seagal of Above the Law fame claims to have helped him master. Even Bonnie Raitt would agree that these two moments had to of given everyone in attendance something to talk about.
So back to Jones...
At the post fight presser Jones said he respected how Shogun became a PRIDE Champion at the early age of 23. Obviously well versed in the history of the sport as well as the art of it, Jones was ready to mimic Shogun for training partner Rashad Evans, who was set to face Rua on March 19th. With Evans out due to an injury that was first disclosed publicly just moments after Jones dismantled his toughest test to date in Ryan Bader ... the 23 year old phenom Jonny *Bones* Jones will now prepare for Shogun himself.
The day before Jones met with Bader I mentioned how Jones may not get a shot for at least one or two years due to his loyalties to Rashad. Oh how much a difference a day in MMA makes. Rua's ring rust really wouldn't have been a factor against a fighter in Evans who had been away from the cage a while himself. With a fresh Jones up next, Rua is faced with another tough task in his storied career.
Remember when Lyoto Machida was unbeatable? One could argue Shogun beat him not once, but twice in a span of six months. He ended the Machida era with a temple shot followed by a killer right hand that made a mess of the man who no one wanted to fight. Next up...his very 1st UFC Light Heavyweight title defense after 10 months away from the cage. Can Shogun derail the Jon Jones hype train and cement himself as arguably the Greatest Light Heavyweight of All Time? Or will the Jon Jones hype train roll right through Shogun on to his next victim?
Jon Jones: In The Moment Airs Tonight
Cap off a full day of March Madness with UFC Presents: Jon Jones: In The Moment tonight on Spike TV at 11 P.M. EST.
Jones has a chance to become the youngest Champion in UFC History Saturday night when he welcomes Champion Mauricio *Shogun* Rua back to the Octagon. Rua has been sidelined since he knocked out the then undefeated Lyoto Machida last May in Montreal.
Penn vs. Fitch 2 Coming July 2nd
"Reports of The Prodigy's retirment have been greatly exaggerated. Dana White confirmed today that B.J. Penn and Jon Fitch have verbally agreed to rematch at UFC 132."
White says both fighters look to keep it out of the judges hands this time.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
The Axe Murderer vs. The Crippler?
I figth with chris lemben I think we gonna give great show for the fans
Follow Wanderlei on Twitter here.
UPDATE:
According to an interview with @ArielHelwani, UFC President Dana White is leaning towards a Wanderlei vs. Belfort rematch.
UPDATE:
According to an interview with @ArielHelwani, UFC President Dana White is leaning towards a Wanderlei vs. Belfort rematch.
UFC 128: Shogun vs. Jones Press Conference Staredown Confusion
Jones tried his patented stare away from his opponent game plan on crafty veteran Mauricio *Shogun* Rua at today's presser in NYC... but to no avail. All it did was confuse the Champ and make him wonder what in the sam hell Jones was looking at, enough to make him look himself. Then Jones proceeded to put his hands in his pockets and look down when Rua turned to look him in the eye. Friday's Weigh In should be very interesting. More pics over at BE
Monday, March 14, 2011
Countdown to UFC 128 Premieres March 15th
Will the *Bones* era begin on March 19th, or will Shogun put a halt to the Jon Jones hype train?
Countdown to UFC 128 Debuts on Tuesday March 15th at 11 P.M. EST on Spike TV.
@jonnybones tweets:
"Now we live on billboards and I brought my boys with me -Jay Z http://plixi.com/p/83826196 #Blessed"
"Wow this whole experience is such a dream come true http://plixi.com/p/83818727 @UFC I LOVE YOU"
Fight Week Hype - UFC 128: Cro Cop vs. Schaub
" There's a difference between me and, I think, the last number of opponents Cro Cop has had in that I respect the guy so much I'm going to give him the best that I've got. My respect is by throwing a right hand in his face." - Brendan Schaub (MMAJunkie)
" My stand up is better than his and I'm physically stronger. I expect a long, hard fight." - Mirko Cro Cop (CagePotato)
" In college, I was a big fan of Mirko Cro Cop. I even wore his shirt to work outs all the time. When he fought Fedor, I talked all of my buddies - who weren't into Martial Arts - into ordering the Pay Per View. I was abroke college student, so I talked six or seven of my buddies into watching the fights." - Schaub (MMAJunkie)
" I still have an even bigger competitive fire than before. Right now I'm completely healthy. I'm looking forward (to) the fight." " Brendan Schaub is good, he's young, hungry, but he's just a rookie in this sport. Brendan Schaub won't survive three rounds with me." I'm ready for stand up . I'm ready for the ground, (and) I'm ready for any aspect of the fight. I will finish him as soon as possible." - Cro Cop (BloodyElbow)
" Everywhere I go I get, ' Hey, hands up. Watch out for that left high kick.' - Schaub (SI)
" To continue fight we need to win both of the last two fights on my contract. If I do not get past Schaub, it would not be fair to continue. If I lose to Schaub, I will have to think long and hard about whether I will fight again or whether it will be my last fight. It would be time to move on, admit that the blade is dull for me and how my life has changed. If I win this fight and my next fight and extend the contract, the third fight will be qualifying for a title shot. Mirko difference in PRIDE and UFC." (CagePotato)
Mirko "Cro Cop" Filipovic
(27-8-2 MMA, 4-4 UFC)
20 Wins via (T)KO
6'2 230
Reach: 73"
Croatian
Brendan "The Hybrid" Schaub
(7-1 MMA, 3-1 UFC)
6 Wins via (T)KO
6'4 239
Reach: 78"
American
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Twitter reactions to Zuffa, LLC purchasing Strikeforce
@danhendo : " What do i think of @ufc buying @strikeforce & reuniting w/ @DanaWhite ? Duh. Winning! and of course Hendo added a hash tag winning
@joerogan: " I'm psyched about the UFC buying Strikeforce, and I can't wait to call all those fights! Overeem vs. Velasquez, anyone?
@Young__Assassin (Melvin Guillard): " The UFC run shit told y'all. !!!!"
@GilbertMelendez: " Zuffa buys Strikeforce! I am now a Zuffa employee!"
@DamonMartin: " Zuffa had contacted their partners a couple of weeks ago in the Middle East about the purchase. The deal was finalized recently."
@cagehero: " Wowwwwwwwwwwwww. Game just changed."
2 Become 1: UFC Purchases Strikeforce - Quotes, Reactions
"It's the same thing that happened with PRIDE and the WEC, that's the way it goes." - Dana White
"We won't be doing any super fights." - Dana White
" It's a little shocking. I had no idea." "... it might not be the best thing for the sport. But then again you're going to start being able to see all these match ups that everyone wants to see." - Dan Henderson in an interview with MMAWeekly
Henderson is right. While White did continue to explain that the UFC and Strikeforce will continue doing, "Business as usual", you have to understand that is just for now. @JoshGrossESPN explains:
" The UFC/Strikeforce split is all about contracts. Once they've fulfilled with Showtime, I'm told a WEC type merger is planned."
So yes, we will most likely see fights like Fedor vs. Couture, Alvarez vs. Edgar etc..but patience young grasshoppers... it's just all about contracts, time and negotiations behind closed doors.
Paul Daley's reaction via UG :
" Business as usual? What if I don't wanna fight for DANA WHITE/ZUFFA? Dana White bans me for life from the UFC , then buys Strikeforce, and thinks I'm still gonna be EASY and fight on one of the most anticipated fights of the year (vs Diaz)? Which will no doubt make Zuffa/Dana White money. Diaz vs Daley still on? Someone better holla at my manager real quick. Not sure what I'm gonna do right now, honestly.. fight for the Strikeforce and be the Strikeforce champ, put money in ZUFFA/Dana White pockets? Or fight here in the UK for BAMMA , who appreciate my brand, and have my loyal fans, family and support me. For Real. "
"M-1 has a deal with Showtime, that's completely separate and Fedor will continue to fight in Strikeforce/Showtime." Dana again in his interview with MMAFighting
UFC purchases Strikeforce
"Business as usual." - Dana White
Ariel Helwani broke the news earlier today. Zuffa has officially bought Strikeforce. The company that White once called "Strikefarce" is now his and the Fertitta's.
Just about every question you have about Zuffa purchasing UFC can be answered in Helwani's interview with UFC President Dana White below.
Friday, March 11, 2011
Strikeforce: Diaz vs. Daley Poster
Strikeforce Welterweight Champion and 209 reprezenter Nick Diaz (24-7 MMA, 5-0 SF) will look to collect his 10th consecutive victory on April 9th when he defends his strap against the deadly knock out artist straight outta Nottingham, Paul *Semtex* Daley (27-9-2 MMA, 2-0 SF).
UFC 130: Edgar vs. Maynard III is Official
It was officially announced today that Frankie Edgar and Gray Maynard will do battle for the 2nd time this year at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Maynard is 1-0-1 against Edgar, and still remains the only man who holds a victory over the current Lightweight Champ. The win took place back at UFN 13: Florian vs. Lauzon in Broomfield, Colorado in April of '08.
When the two met again on New Years Day, in what should remain a contender for Fight of the Year for all 365 days of 2011, the fight ended in a draw. This event marks the first time Frankie Edgar has opened up as a favorite since he dethroned B.J. Penn for his Lightweight Championship last year.
Tickets go on sale Thursday to Fight Club Members, Friday for Newsletter Subscribers and Saturday to the General Public. All sales begin at 1 P.M. ET.
Let's take a gander at the Fight Card and Opening odds for this Memorial Day Weekend Extravaganza.
Main Card:
• Lightweight Championship: Frankie Edgar (C) (-140) vs. Gray Maynard (+110)
• Quinton *Rampage* Jackson (-260) vs. Matt Hamill (+200)
• Frank Mir (-115) vs. Roy Nelson (-115)
• Stefan Struve vs. Travis Browne
• Brian Stann (-110) vs. Jorge Santiago (-120)
Preliminary Card:
• Thiago Alves (-220) vs. Rick *The Horror* Story (+175)
• Miguel Torres vs. Brad Pickett
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Strikeforce: Diaz vs. Daley Fight Card
Strikeforce will once again be featuring 2 Title Fights for it's next big card which will take place April 9th in San Diego. The Main Card will once again air on Showtime.
Main Card:
• Welterweight Championship: Nick Diaz (C) vs. Paul Daley
• Lightweight Championship: Gilbert Melendez vs. Tatsuya Kawajiri
• Gegard Mousasi vs. Mike Kyle
• Shinya Aoki vs. Lyle Beerbohm
St. Pierre vs. Silva Super Fight not likely for 2011
That is if it happens at all. While current UFC Welterweight Champion Georges St. Pierre did let Cagewriter know that he's not afraid of Anderson Silva, he did suggest that Silva fight Yushin Okami first.
Attached after the break is the full interview done by Steve Cofield. The poor audio quality was due to GSP having a bad connection in London.
Urijah Faber: "(Dominick Cruz) chose me as an Enemy"
Here are a few quotes from *The California Kid" about his sworn enemy Dominick Cruz from the folks over at MMADigest. Quotes transcribed by MMAMania.
" I don't really have a lot of people I don't like but Dominick is just a guy that's rubbed me the wrong way."
" You know, I've fought him before and he was a little disrespectful and he's done some things that were out by the cage that were disrespectful. And he acts like he doesn't know what I'm talking about . Just being immature... kind of a D-bag, for lack of a better word."
The only loss on the record of current UFC Bantamweight Champion Dominick Cruz came via Guillotine choke against then WEC Featherweight Champion Urijah Faber back in March of 2007.
" ... the bottom line is, he's someone that I'm going to have to fight and I feel like he's chosen me as an enemy in a couple of different ways and I accepted."
Urijah also spoke at today's conference call about the possibility of coaching against Cruz for Spike TV's TUF Season 14 should he defeat Wineland. He expressed concern over having to wait until December should he take on the show but does recognize that its a great marketing tool and would be an overall good experience. TUF 14 will be the first to feature Feather and Bantamweights.
Wineland would love nothing more than to steal Faber's Title shot and some of his spotlight at UFC 128 on March 19th in New Jersey.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
UFC 128: Shogun vs. Jones Updated Fight Odds
The rest of the Main Card Fight Lines just dropped for UFC 128: Shogun vs. Jones. Get your bets in at betus before they start moving in the wrong direction!
• Light Heavyweight Championship: Mauricio *Shogun* Rua (+165) vs. Jon Jones (-210)
• Urijah Faber (-400) vs. Eddie Wineland (+300)
• Jim Miller (-210) vs. Kamal Shalorus (+165)
• Nate Marquardt (-300) vs. Yoshihiro Akiyama (+220)
• Brendan Schaub (-280) vs. Mirko *Cro Cop* Filipovic (+210)
HOV-MMA Light Heavyweight Rankings: Is it Written?
When it comes to discussing the future of Jon Jones in the UFC in say... the past year or so... it was never a matter of IF he would get a title shot , it was more a question of when he would get his title shot. I think its safe to say it came sooner than we all thought, and that's not to say he doesn't deserve it.
Is it Written? When Jones (#7) fights Rua (#1) this month in New Jersey will he become the youngest UFC champion in history, or will it simply go down as his 1st shot at a UFC title?
Light Heavyweight (3/7/11)
1. Shogun Rua (19-4) (1)
2. Rashad Evans (15-1-1) (2)
3. Quinton *Rampage* Jackson (31-8) (3)
4. Lyoto Machida (16-2) (4)
5. Forrest Griffin (18-6) (5)
6. Dan Henderson (27-8) (↑NR)
7. Jon Jones (12-1) (↑9)
8. Gegard Mousasi (30-3-1) (8)
9. Ryan Bader (12-1) (↓7)
10. Randy Couture (19-10) (↑NR)
Dropping out: Rafael Cavalcante, Thiago Silva
Outside looking in: Matt Hamill, Phil Davis, Antonio Rogerio Nogueira
Jon Jones MMA Debut (Video)
Jon Jones made his Mixed Martial Arts debut just under three years ago (April 2008) against 0-2 Brad Bernard in Foxborough, Massachusetts. Before the month of April was over Jones had already run his record up to 3-0. Before 2008 was over Jones was already 7-0 with his UFC debut now under his belt. On March 19th of 2011 Jones will fight for a shot at the UFC Light Heavyweight Title against current champ Mauricio *Shogun* Rua. Brad Barnard hasn't fought since the Jones fight.
This video just surfaced yesterday thanks to SBNation. Very very very cool video for fans of Jones and MMA in general.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Strikeforce: Feijao vs. Henderson Results: Henderson Drops Another H-Bomb
Add another Title to the collection for one of the true legends of the sport. It took 3 Rounds for Dan Henderson to land his patented H-Bomb (Hi Mauro) on Fejiao's sweet spot, forcing him to drop and eat punches to the side of the head until Dan Mirgliotta was forced to stop the contest. Let's take a look the results from tonight's televised Strikeforce Main Card.
• Dan Henderson (27-8) defeats Rafael *Feijao* Cavalcante (10-3) via TKO (Round 3, 0:50) to become the New Strikeforce Light Heavyweight Champion
• Marloes Coenen (19-4) defeats Liz Carmouche (5-1) via triangle choke (Round 4, 1:29) to retain her Women's Welterweight Championship
• Tim Kennedy (13-3) defeats Melvin Manhoef (24-9-1) via rear naked choke (Round 1, 3:41)
• Jorge Masvidal (21-6) defeats Billy Evangelista (11-1) via UD (30-27 x 3)
Strikeforce: Feijao vs. Henderson Results: Coenen makes a Silvaesque Comeback
AllElbows
The 1st Round could have went either way. The 2nd and the 3rd.... well lets just say Liz *Girl-Rilla* Carmouche showed the world that she was more than worthy of fighting for the Strikeforce Women's Welterweight Title in the first year of her MMA career. Carmouche was relentless, grounding and pounding the champ from dominant position for 2 straight rounds. Coenen was helpless from the bottom but to her credit she never turtled and never showed any quit. Enter the Championship Rounds. Carmouche looked to be in control early again. Out of nowhere the champ locks a triangle choke and puts some torque on it. Carmouche taps. Coenen remains Champion after taking a Cyborgesque beating. Coenen bows to her opponent and pays her respects.
Compustrike had Carmouche landing 221 out of 352 strikes during the course of the 16 minute and 29 second fight. Marloes Coenen is still your Strikeforce Women's Welterweight hampion.Easily the comeback victory of the year so far.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Jones and Evans change their tune
It wasn't too long ago that it seemed a possible title fight between buddies Rashad Evans and Jon Jones (if he can get past current UFC LHW champ *Shogun* Rua) would be an impossibility. Times have changed.
In an interview conducted by Ariel Helwani, Jones expressed his respect for his teammate and how well the two have clicked in the short time they've known each other. For the first time ever he also admitted that he would not rule out a fight with Evans if that's what the boss "absolutely wanted to happen." Here is a portion of the interview with Jones concerning the Rashad situation transcribed by BloodyElbow.
" I respect Dana White a lot and if that's what he absolutely wanted to happen then, you know, I guess that's what would have to happen. Me or Rashad would not want to get fired over the situation. It would just be majorly awkward for us. Rashad and I have a lot in common; we're both young, African-American men with families, we both like to sing and have fun, we're both elite MMA fighters, I mean we have a LOT in common. We really clicked really well and there is just so many other great fighters that we could compete against. And we're not animals, we're friends and were people, we're human beings. I just would hate to fight my own teammate. I would never want to."
What did Evans have to say in response to his current bff on ESPN MMA Live ?
" Jones expressed last night in an interview that he would fight me for the title. So I guess (I have to fight him). I'm no punk.
Strikeforce: Feijao vs. Henderson Weigh In Gallery
Dutch Star Marloes Coenen is ready to make her first defense of the Strikeforce Women' Welterweight Championship Tomorrow night in front of Ohio's most faithful MMA fans.
Check out the full gallery of photos from today's weigh in's over at Strikeforce.
Photo via AllElbows for Strikeforce.
Strikeforce: Feijao vs. Henderson Quick Picks & Odds
Main Card (Showtime)
• Light Heavyweight Championship: Rafael *Feijao* Cavalcante (C) (10-2) +145 vs. Dan *Hendo* Henderson (26-8) -175
Former Welterweight and Middleweight Pride FC Champion Dan Henderson enters what could possibly be the last title fight of his career in C-Bus tomorrow night when he'll face off against newly crowned Strikeforce Light Heavyweight Champion Feijao Cavalcante. While Feijao is one of the most dangerous fighters in the promotion, (he's 10 for 10 when it comes to finishes) he has not faced anyone of Henderson's caliber. I'll take Henderson via one trick right hook pony last hurrah walk into the sunset KO
• Women's Welterweight Championship: Marloes *Rumina* Coenen (18-4) -400 vs. Liz *Girl-Rilla* Carmouche (5-0) +300
Carmouche comes into this fight on short notice as a replacement for Strikeforce Women's Welterweight Tournament Champion Miesha Tate. If Coenen can get this fight to the ground early, her first title defense should be a successful one. She doesn't want to risk standing and trading with a dangerous amped up *Girl-Rilla* who has nothing to lose and everything to gain. Carmouche is a tempting pick with that line but I just can't go against the Dutch style submission artist here. Coenen via submission.
• Tim Kennedy (12-3) -300 vs. Melvin Manhoef (24-8-1) +220
American Hero Tim Kennedy will take on seasoned knockout maestro Melvin Manhoef in the final 3 Round tilt of the night. Manhoef's last 11 MMA fights have ended in the 1st Round. In the last couple of years they usually haven't ended with his hand being raised. Manhoef still has the kind of power to knock Kennedy down but he also he's also good at getting himself into dangerous situations by his over aggressive style. I believe Kennedy can and will end this fight with whatever he is in the mood for.
• Billy Evangelista (11-0) +110 vs. Jorge Masvidal (20-6) -140
Evangelista is on a terror for lack of a better word. A win over Masvidal would be the 8th in a row for Evangelista under the Strikeforce banner. Let's just say it'd be enough to make an argument for him to receive a shot at Lightweight Gold before the year is out. Masvidal on the other hand is coming off an impressive showing in a losing effort against Paul Daley last August for the Shark Fights promotion. I'll take Masvidal to end Evangelista's run via Decision although I really do like Evangelista at +110.
UFC on Versus 3 Highlight Reel
Clips from the best fight night UFC on Versus has put on so far. Via: MMAMania
Update: Diego Sanchez and Martin Kampmann's FOTN bonuses were raised from $60,000 grand to $160,000 due to the epic nature of their fight.
Bellator 35 Fight Card, Betting Odds
Bellator makes its MTV2 debut tonight with 4 Welterweight Tournament bouts on the same card (take notes Strikeforce). The winner of the Tournament will likely challenge Welterweight Champion Ben Askren for the right to become Bellator's Welterweight Kingpin. In order to stay active, Askren will be fighting Josh Thompson at Bellator 40 in a Non-Title fight. Here is a look at what Bjorn Rebney and Co. have in store for S04E01 which takes place Saturday night at the Tachi Palace Hotel and Casino in Lemoore, California.
Main Card: (Welterweight Quaterfinals)
• Chris Lozano +130 vs. Lyman Good -160
• Brent Weedman +250 vs. Dan Hornbuckle -350
• Anthony Lapsley +250 vs. Jay Hieron -350
• Jim Wallhead +115 vs. Rick Hawn -145
Local Feature Fights:
• Zoila Frausto vs. Karina Hallinan (non title fight)
• Waachiim Spiritwolf vs. Jaime Jara
• Josh Herrick vs. Brandon Bender
• Jesus Castro vs. Paul Ruiz
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