Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Countdown to UFC 143: Diaz vs. Condit (Video)
Just in case Fuel TV is not available in your area yet here is the full 22 minute Countdown to UFC 143 video via USA Today.
This preview features an inside look at the following Main Card matchups:
• Interim Welterweight Championship: Nick Diaz (26-7) vs. Carlos Condit (27-5)
• Roy Nelson (16-6) vs. Fabricio Werdum (14-5-1)
• Josh Koscheck (16-5) vs. Mike Pierce (13-4)
You can view the full card here.
UFC 143: Diaz vs. Condit Extended Preview (Video)
UFC 143: Diaz vs. Condit
You can catch the full Countdown to UFC 143 show tonight on Fuel TV at 9 PM ET / 6 PM PT.
Monday, January 30, 2012
UFC 145: Jones vs. Evans Fight Card
The Wait is Over.
Barring any more unfortunate mishaps Jon Jones vs. Rashad Evans is a go, and it's happening this spring in Atlanta and live on Pay Per View.
While this card doesn't boast a home runner hitter of a Co-Main Event it is chock full of interesting match ups from top to bottom including a very intriguing Bantamweight scrap between veteran Miguel Torres and future title contender Michael McDonald. Here is your full fight card for UFC 145: Jones vs. Evans (fight card subject to change).
UFC 145: Jones vs. Evans
April 21, 2011
Atlanta, Georgia
Philips Arena
• Light Heavyweight Championship: Jon Jones (C) vs. Rashad Evans
• Miguel Torres vs. Michael McDonald
• Rory MacDonald vs. Che Mills
• Travis Browne vs. Chad Griggs
• Mark Bocek vs. Matt Wiman
• Mark Hominick vs. Eddie Yagin
• Stephen Thompson vs. Matt Brown
• Brendan Schaub vs. Ben Rothwell
• John Makdessi vs. Anthony Njokuani
• Mac Danzig vs. Efrain Escudero
• Marcus Brimage vs. Maximo Blanco
• Keith Wisniewski vs. Chris Clements
The Weekend in Violence: Three Stars
Welcome to The Weekend in Violence : UFC on
1. Charles Oliveira
Charles "Do Bronx" Oliveira made UFC history on Saturday Night in Chicago. He managed to pull off the first calf slicer submission in a promotion that has been active for nearly two decades.
Last year it was Chan Sung Jung's twister. This year it's Oliveira's calf slicer that is already an early favorite for submission of the year honors. (GIF after the break)
2. Lavar Johnson
Strikeforce Heavyweight import Lavar Johnson made a huge splash in his UFC debut against a man many thought didn't have a switch in Joey Beltran. With just over 40 seconds left in the 1st Round Johnson landed six nasty uppercuts on the Mexicutioner against the cage and even sprinkled in a couple of right hooks for good measure. (Video after the break)
3. Cub Swanson
Calf Slicer. Check. A beautiful six uppercut laced KO. Check. How about a game of mouthpiece pinball starring Cub Swanson and George Roop. Roop lost his mouthpiece in the 1st Round but was lucky enough to get it back from the referee calling the action. I'm not sure if Roop will ever want to see the mouthpiece in question after what happened in the second round.
Swanson landed a right that only Philadelphia Flyers Goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov could properly describe. Cub Swanson's right hand, not unlike the universe, was "Humongous Big". Check the GIF via middleeasy after the break.
Honorable Mention: Evan Dunham
photo via: ufc.com
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Saturday, January 28, 2012
UFC on FOX 2: Chael Sonnen vs. Michael Bisping Video Highlights
Final Result: • Chael Sonnen (27-11-1) defeats Michael Bisping (22-4) via UD (30-27, 29-28 x 2)
via: FOXSports
UFC on FOX 2 Bonuses: The Prelims Shine on FUELTV
If you didn't tune into FUEL TV for the Preliminary action tonight you missed out on the Fight, KO and Submission of the Night Bonuses (all four fighters were awarded $65K each):
• Fight of the Night: Evan Dunham vs. Nik Lentz
• Knockout of the Night: Lavar Johnson
• Submission of the Night: Charles Oliveira (pictured) (First Calf Slicer submission in UFC History)
UFC on FOX 2: Evans vs. Davis Live Results
• Main Event: Rashad Evans (17-1-1) defeats Phil Davis (9-1) via UD (50-45 x 3)
• Chael Sonnen (27-11-1) defeats Michael Bisping (22-4) via UD (30-27, 29-28 x 2)
• Chris Weidman (8-0) defeats Demian Maia (15-4) via Split Decision (29-28 x 2, 30-27)
Preliminary Card: (FuelTV)
• Evan Dunham (13-2) defeats Nik Lentz (21-5-2) via TKO (doctor stoppage) (Round 2, 5:00)
• Mike Russow (15-1) defeats Jon Olav Einemo (6-3) via UD (29-28 x 2, 30-27)
• Cub Swanson (16-5) defeats George Roop (12-9-1) via TKO (punches) (Round 2, 2:22)
• Charles Oliveira (15-2) defeats Eric Wisely (19-7) via submission (calf slicer) (Round 1, 1:46)
• Michael Johnson (10-6) defeats Shane Roller (10-6) via UD (29-28 x 3)
• Lavar Johnson (16-5) defeats Joey Beltran (13-7) via KO (uppercuts) (Round 1, 4:24)
Preliminary Card (Not Broadcast)
• Chris Camozzi (16-5) defeats Dustin Jacoby (6-2) via guillotine choke (Round 3, 1:08)
Dana White UFC on FOX Chicago Vlog #3
Highlights:
• President Dana "The Bald Bozo" White gives a shout out to @BloodstainLane . If you follow Bloodstain this is a hilarious moment.
• Dana gives some shit to one of his lazy employees.
• Some TUF Live talk with Bantamweight Champion Dominick Cruz
• A closer look at the UFC on FOX 2 (Chicago) Weigh Ins. Bisping and Phil Davis steal the show.
Friday, January 27, 2012
UFC on FOX 2 Pick 'Em
After going 10-0 last Friday on the UFC on FX 1 Pick 'Em you have to prepare yourself for a let down and just enjoy the fights. It's time to let our proverbial hair down and just have fun with these picks. Don't expect a whole lot of deep analysis in this piece. Welcome to the picks! As always feel free to leave yours in the comment section.
odds via : bovada
Main Card (Live on FOX)
• Rashad Evans (-200) vs. Phil Davis (+160)
Rashad has fought three times in the past two years. He beat a washed up Tito Ortiz (who was fighting on very short notice), a Rampage who had been concentrating on Hollywood and a fighter in Thiago Silva who almost came back and beat Rashad by...well...imitating Rashad.
During that time Phil Davis has gone 5-0 in the UFC beating the likes of Brian Stann, Alexander Gustafsson, Tim Boetsch and Rogerio Nogueira (go ahead and throw in a Rodney Wallace for good measure). Let's not forget to mention that Davis frightened Stann and Boetsch into changing weight classes after they felt the wrath of Mr. Wonderful.
If Rashad can keep this standing I love his chances but Mr. Wonderful is just too smart for that. Davis via some crazy modified submission.
• Chael Sonnen (-450) vs. Michael Bisping (+325)
I don't agree with the odds but I do believe that Munoz was a much tougher fight for Chael. Once this fight hits the ground Sonnen will use his suffocating wrestling to frustrate Bisping. Sonnen will manipulate Bisping's breathing and box his ears in order to set up one of the most anticipated rematches of all time this summer in Brazil. Sonnen via decision.
• Demian Maia (+120) vs. Chris Weidman (-150)
Again, very interesting odds. What's also of interest is that Weidman claims he is not afraid to hit the ground with Maia. Whether or no he's just saying that is another question but Maia standup has been very impressive of late, especially in his recent victory over Jorge Santiago and even in defeat against a dangerous striker in Mark Munoz. Maia is putting it all together but tomorrow night on FOX I see the 4th degree BJJ Black Belt going back to his roots. Maia via submission. Albeit quietly, Maia craves a re match with Anderson Silva just as much as Sonnen does.
Preliminary Card quick picks after the jump:
UFC on FOX 2: Evans vs. Davis Live Weigh In Video/Results
You can catch this event LIVE right here or on FUEL TV beginning at 5 PM EST.
UFC
@FUELTV
Main Card: (Live on FOX)
• Rashad Evans (205) vs. Phil Davis (205)
• Chael Sonnen (185) vs. Michael Bisping (185)
• Demian Maia (186) vs. Chris Weidman (185)
Preliminary Card: (FuelTV)
• Evan Dunham (155) vs. Nik Lentz (155)
• Mike Russow (251) vs. Jon Olav Einemo (253)
• George Roop (145) vs. Cub Swanson (145)
• Charles Oliveira (144) vs. Eric Wisely (145)
• Shane Roller (156) vs. Michael Johnson (156)
• Joey Beltran (228) vs. Lavar Johnson (252)
• Chris Camozzi (185) vs. Dustin Jacoby (185)
Dana White UFC on FOX Chicago Vlog #2
The majority of this vlog takes us behind the scenes of yesterday's Pre Fight Presser which took place yesterday afternoon inside of the W Hotel in downtown Chicago.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
The UFC on FOX 2 Press Conference Quote Machine
Sonnen and Bisping go head to head in Chicago on the afternoon of January 26th for the Press. The one who emerges victorious on January 28th will face the top pound for pound fighter in the world this summer in Brazil.
photo via : @danawhite
" You're looking at the reflection of perfection, the one who gets all your attention. You're looking at the man with the biggest arms, the man with the greatest charm and the man in Chicago to do a lot of harm to a guy three doors down." - Sonnen
" This wouldn't be the first time I've been an underdog in a fight. It wouldn't be the first time I win and prove the oddsmakers wrong. Odds aren't important. What's important is who turns up on the night. The best fighter doesn't always win. The guy who fights best wins... and he can keep his fake belt and shove it up his ass." - Bisping
UFC on FOX 2 Live Pre Fight Press Conference Stream
Brought to you by UFC/Chael Sonnen Productions
Presser begins at the 24:17 marker.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Is Michael Bisping the Rodney Dangerfield of MMA?
Posted by Dan Rose
Rodney Dangerfield used to make a healthy living complaining about his lack of respect. If you ever heard him talk for more than twenty seconds you’d hear his famous catch line, “No respect, no respect…I get no respect.” In many ways Michael Bisping is fighting a similar concern here in the USA. Fans dislike him, mock him, and most feel he has next to no chance against Chael Sonnen this Saturday night. Let’s look at the facts before we throw the Brit out with the bathwater.
Michael “The Count” Bisping is a talented fighter from the UK. He won season three of the Ultimate Fighter and has since gone on to a very respectable 11-3 record inside the Octagon with his only losses coming from Dan Henderson, Wanderlei Silva and Rashad Evans, a virtual who’s who of MMA. However, most of the people I’ve talked to feel he has very little chance against Chael Sonnen. Hmmm?
Chael is a tremendous fighter. He’s as strong as a government mule and has a ferocious wrestling base and he can utilize it for MMA as well as anyone. He too has an impressive list of victories (and one near victory) that have him in line for a rematch with Anderson Silva if he can solve Bisping. His last outing, he made Brian Stann look quite ordinary via a second round submission.
This fight comes down to perceived personality rather than skill to many fans in my opinion. People look at Bisping as a petulant child, running his mouth and acting like a spoiled baby. Chael Sonnen on the other hand plays the villain role perfectly. He’s often offensive, disrespects people at random and the American fans eat it up. Stone Cold Steve Austin should get a percentage of every UFC PPV Chael is on from here out, because Sonnen is playing “The Rattlesnake” to perfection. Sonnen wanted WWE wrestler CM Punk to walk him to the cage this weekend. He knows precisely what he’s doing people.
you can find the remainder of this article after the break:
you can find the remainder of this article after the break:
Dan Le Batard is "Highly Amused" with Chael Sonnen
Chael P. Sonnen educates Dan Le Batard of the "Highly Questionable" program on who the real Middleweight Champion of the world is.
UFC Undisputed 3 Demo Now Available for XBOX 360 & PS3
Can't wait until Valentines Day (the official release date for Undisputed 3 in North America) to unleash soccer kicks to downed opponents via your greasy jagermeister stained console controller? The folks at THQ have you covered. As of yesterday you can now download the official UFC Undisputed 3 demo which features four playable fighters in two separate promotions.
Inside of the Octagon Light Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones is available for you to control either against himself or current Middleweight Champion Anderson Silva. This appears to be a non title fight since I received no more than a pat on the back for my highlight reel spinning head kick KO of "Bones" just hours ago via the Spider's heel. Surely Mr. Silva will be delighted to hear that he can also finally scrap with his own clone.
On the PRIDE side of things, well, let's just say the feeling is pretty magical. Stephen Quadros and Bas Rutten provide you with the commentary while the always lovely Lenne Hardt has lent her golden voice for the intros. Goosepimples may arise on long time fans arms upon hearing the PRIDE intro music. Even the little things like seeing the fighters PRIDE records along with their other info pre fight so new fans can begin to comprehend a fighter like Wanderlei Silva's years of dominance in the sport.Wanderlei Silva and Rampage Jackson are the two characters you can do battle with in between the ropes and remember the 1st Round of any PRIDE Fighting contest runs a full 10 minutes which is a bonus since these demos fights only last one round for either promotion.
150 Fighter Roster Video Preview
Full PRIDE Roster
A short history of playable characters from the past UFC Undisputed demos shows us that THQ is in the business of preparing you with only Light Heavyweights and heavy doses of Shogun and Rampage before unleashing their full product.
UFC Undisputed 2010
• Lyoto Machida
• Mauricio "Shogun" Rua
• Quinton "Rampage" Jackson
• Rashad Evans
UFC Undisputed (2009)
• Chuck Liddell
• Mauricio "Shogun" Rua
photo via : cagetoday
UFC on FOX 2: Sonnen vs. Bisping Video Preview
Chael Sonnen reveals his intense strategy on how to defeat "The Count" Michael Bisping in their upcoming UFC Middleweight Title Eliminator bout.
Tune in to see Sonnen attempt to execute his complicated game plan on this Saturday Night Live on FOX (8 in the East, 5 in the West).
Ronda Rousey Visits Attack of the Show (Video)
"Professional Arm Snapper" Ronda Rousey visits the Attack of the Show program on G4 to talk about her upcoming title shot against Strikeforce Bantamweight Champion Miesha Tate.
She also reveals that she is the most Dangerous Unarmed Woman on the Planet and could kill everyone in the room with her bare hands one by one. How can you not love this girl?
Monday, January 23, 2012
Dana White UFC on FOX Chicago Vlog #1
The Open: Sonnen vs. Bisping foreshadowing
0:39: D. White UFC on FOX Intro
2:17: UFC on FX:Nashville - Behind the Scenes
9:43: Light Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones gives his prediction for Evans vs. Davis
Strikeforce: Tate vs. Rousey Gets Two New Fights
While Tate (right) and Rousey (left) may share a mutual disdain for each other, at least they make for good photo ops like this one which took place during a Columbus Blue Jackets game in the very venue these two will do battle in come March 3rd.
photo via: Miesha Tate
Strikeforce will once again be hosting an event to coincide with the ultra popular Arnold Sports Festival which takes place during the first weekend of March in Columbus, Ohio.
Last year we saw Dan Henderson TKO "Feijao" Cavalcante and leave town with a Strikeforce Light Heavyweight Title that he would never defend. This time around we get to see the newly crowned Strikeforce Women's Bantamweight Champion make her first title defense. Her challenger, well let's just say if you follow mixed martial arts and don't know her by now you will soon enough.
Today Strikeforce announced that former Light Heavyweight Champion Gegard Mousasi will return to the "hexagon" to face off against dangerous KO artist Mike Kyle. Kyle has bounced back and forth between divisions during his Strikeforce tenure holding a notable win over the aforementioned Rafael Cavalcante at Light Heavyweight along with crushing defeats suffered against Heavyweights "Bigfoot" Silva and Fabricio Werdum. While his opponent may be one of the most talented fighters in the division he may be the most frustrating. Mousasi seemed to be going through the motions during his 2011 with an impressive finish over Hiroshi Izumi sandwiched in between not so impressive performances against Ovince St. Preux and Keith Jardine. This is a very winnable fight for Kyle depending on how serious the veteran multi promotional/weight class Champion Mousasi is taking his career at this point.
Also added to Strikeforce: Tate vs. Rousey this afternoon was a lightweight tilt between Conor Heun and Ryan Couture. Both fighters have recently got back in the win column and look to stay relevant in the shallow shark pool that is the Strikeforce 155 lb. division come March 3rd in Columbus, Ohio.
Keep up to date with all Strikeforce: Tate vs. Rousey Fight Announcements and Card Updates here.
Sunday, January 22, 2012
UFC Primetime: Diaz vs. Condit Episode 1 Video
You can catch UFC Primetime: Diaz vs. Condit Episode 2 next Friday Night on FX at 11 PM EST.
The Final Episode in the 3 part series will air on February 3rd, the night before these two clash, at 11 PM EST as well.
The Welterweight Interim Title is up for grabs when Nick Diaz faces Carlos Condit live on Pay Per View for the right to fight Georges St. Pierre. The action begins at the new/old start time of 10 PM EST on Super Saturday Night. You can find the full updated card here.
ProElite 3: Grove vs. Minowa Results
We are now living in a post ProElite 3 world my friends. The action returned to where it all started, back inside of the Blaisdell Event center in Honolulu, Hawaii and was once again broadcast live on HDNet. The proof is below.
Main Card:
• Kendall Grove improves to (14-9) by defeating Ikuhisa Minowa (52-33-8) via UD (30-27 x 3)
•Sara McMann (5-0) stays perfect by defeating the "Girlfight Monster" Hitomi Akano (18-9) via UD (30-27 x 3)
• Richard Odoms (7-0) punched his ticket to the Heavyweight Grand Prix Finals by defeating Jake "The Honey Bear" Heun (2-2) via neck crank (Round 2, 1:56)
• Ryan Martinez (7-1) will meet Odoms in the Heavyweight Grand Prix Finals since he decided to go ahead and outpoint Cody Griffin (5-3), taking home a UD (29-28, 30-27 x 2) victory
• Pat Cummins (2-0) defeated Tasi Edwards (2-1) via arm triangle choke (Round 1, 4:01) in a fight that took place at the Catchweight of 215 lbs.
• Brent Schermerhorn (5-1) made quick work of Kaleo Gambill (2-1) via KO (punch) (Round 1, 0:45)
Go ahead and bookmark ProElite for future info on upcoming events. This promotion is not going away anytime soon, especially with its new DREAM/OneFC Alliance. Expect to see a good combination of old stars (overseas and stateside) and some future gems loading up these cards in the coming years.
You can find the Preliminary Card Results after the jump:
Friday, January 20, 2012
Full UFC on FX Results: Miller Submits Guillard, "The Dentist" Chokes out "Bang"
Jim Miller gets back on track tonight in "Music City" with a convincing win over one of the most dangerous lightweights in the world. Josh Neer becomes a problem in the UFC Welterweight division. Two bantamweights put on a fight for the ages and a fan favorite scores a comeback KO victory.
The Ultimate Fighting Championships FX debut was one of the better top to bottom free TV cards in Mixed Martial Arts history. Here are your full UFC on FX 1: Guillard vs. Miller results -
photo via: ufc
Main Card (FX):
• Jim Miller (21-3) defeats Melvin Guillard (29-10-2) via RNC (Round 1, 2:04)
• Josh Neer (33-10-1) defeats Duane Ludwig (21-12) via guillotine (Round 1, 3:04)
• Mike Easton (12-1) defeats Jared Papazian (14-7) via Majority Decision (29-28, 30-27 , 29-29)
• Pat Barry (7-4) defeats Christian Morecraft (7-3) via KO (Round 1, 3:38)
Prelim Card (Fuel TV)
• Jorge Rivera (19-9) defeats Eric Schafer (12-7-2) via TKO (punches) (Round 2, 1:31)
• Khabib Nurmagomedov (17-0) defeats Kamal Shalorus (7-2-2) via RNC (Round 3, 2:08)
• Charlie Brenneman (15-3) defeats Daniel Roberts (12-4) via UD (30-27 x 2, 29-28)
• Fabricio Camoes (14-6-1) defeats Tommy Hayden (8-1) via RNC (Round 1, 4:03)
• Daniel Pineda (16-7) defeats Pat Schilling (5-1) via RNC (Round 1, 1:37)
• Nick Denis (11-2) defeats Joseph Sandoval (6-2) via KO (standing elbows) (Round 1, 0:22)
Thursday, January 19, 2012
UFC on FX: Guillard vs. Miller Live Weigh In Video & Results
Live on @FUELTV
Main Card:
• Melvin Guillard (156) vs. Jim Miller (155)
• Josh Neer (171) vs. Duane Ludwig (170.5)
• Mike Easton (135) vs. Jared Papazian (135.5)
• Pat Barry (242) vs. Christian Morecraft (256)
Prelim Card (Fuel TV)
• Jorge Rivera (185.5) vs. Eric Schafer (185)
• Kamal Shalorus (155.5) vs. Khabib Nurmagomedov (155)
• Charlie Brenneman (170.5) vs. Daniel Roberts (170.5)
• Fabricio Camoes (157.5)* vs. Tommy Hayden (155.5)
• Daniel Pineda (145) vs. Pat Schilling (145)
• Joseph Sandoval (135) vs. Nick Denis (135.5)
*Camoes has 2 hours to make weight
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Quinton "Rampage" Jackson talks King Mo, Steroids & Bisping
Rampage on King Mo's positive Drug Test:
"It's just karma.....any fighter that has to use steroids to go in a cage and fight somebody is not a true fighter....it's a sad case."
On a possible fight against "King Mo" in the future:
" Come on the guy wears a tiara, and he has nipple rings, and he looks funny. Come on. You know I would bust my ass in the gym so I don't get beat by a guy like that. Once I do smash his ass I'll talk cash money shit on him."
On Bisping (fighting Chael Sonnen on only 10 days notice)
"The reason why I started training with him (Bisping) is cuz he's the most competitive fighter or person I know."
All in all a very candid worthwhile interview.
You can find more Karyn Bryant interviews over at mmaheat
UFC on FX 1 Pick 'Em
Music City will be the site for the worlds premier Mixed Martial Art's organization's Main Card debut on FX.
Perennial Lightweight Title Contenders Jim Miller and Melvin Guillard will headline a broadcast that also features "fastest ko of all time" record holder Duane "Bang" Ludwig and fan favorite Heavyweight Pat "HD" Barry.
Here are the picks for Friday Nights Fights in Nashville:
Main Card (FX):
• Melvin Guillard (29-9-2) vs. Jim Miller (20-3)
Melvin "The Young Assassin" Guillard is one of the quickest finishers in the game today. There just aren't many guys who he doesn't have the ability to finish inside of the 1st Round. Then there's Jim Miller.
The Miller Bros. (Jim and Dan) are traditionally tough, scratch that, impossible to finish. With a combined record of 29-9 between the two AMA Fight Club standouts, all 9 losses have gone to decision. Guillard's best shot would be standing but he needs to come out with a better game plan than he did against Lauzon and avoid Miller's underrated striking. I see this one ending with a barrage followed up by a picture perfect submission. Miller via TKO.
• Josh Neer (32-10-1) vs. Duane Ludwig (21-11)
"The Dentist" vs. "Bang!". This Welterweight scrap may not have any title implications but on paper it's one of those dream match ups "for the fans". Neer looks to really be in the zone putting together a string of wins via UltraViolence that began after he fell to former Bellator Lightweight Champ Eddie Alvarez in a catch weight bout back in May of 2010 (way back in the day when Bellator was on Thursday Nights). It's hard to believe this guy is only 28 but I feel like he's got plenty more fight in him after 43 career bouts. Look for Neer to extend his streak to six in a row with a hard fought decision victory over Ludwig Friday Night.
• Mike Easton (11-1) vs. Jared Papazian (14-6)
Jared Papazian will make his UFC debut against mini hulk Mike Easton who already has a vicious TKO victory under his belt on the big stage. This has the potential to take home Fight of the Night honors but my gut is telling me Easton takes this one via beastmode early on in the 1st Round. Something about this kid screams Bantamweight on the rise.
• Pat Barry (6-4) vs. Christian Morecraft (7-2)
Barry via KO. He needs this one to keep his job and he knows it. He's the better all around fighter and it should show. What better way to kick of the UFC on FX debut than with a Hype or Die KO right?
Prelim picks after the jump:
UFC on FOX 2 New Poster: Enter Chris Weidman
Well that didn't take long. Not only does Demian Maia get a new date to the FOX Tripleheader, we get an updated poster less than a day later.
Here is the updated January 28th card live from the United Center in Chicago:
Main Card: (Live on FOX)
• Main Event: Rashad Evans (16-1-1) vs. Phil Davis (9-0)
• Chael Sonnen (26-11-1) vs. Michael Bisping (22-3)
• Demian Maia (15-3) vs. Chris Weidman (7-0)
You can find the Fuel TV Prelim portion of the show here.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
UFC on FOX 2: Munoz Out, Sonnen vs. Bisping New Co-Main Event
More on the injury to Munoz and a possible replacement opponent for Maia as it becomes available.
via Dana White this evening: "Munoz is injured and out of the FOX fight! Now it's Chael Sonnen vs. Mike Bisping Jan. 28th and the winner will fight Anderson for the title."
Bisping: "Chael Sonnen's best weapon is his mouth, and that's something that's going to be absolutely useless in this fight. I see a very bright future for Chael Sonnen as a used car salesman very soon."
Sonnen: "I am going to knock the teeth out of this snot nosed Brit who calls himself royalty, who calls himself a Count. I am MMA royalty and America will tune into the Chael Sonnen show next Saturday on FOX."
photo: 5thround
UFC 145: Montreal Fight Card Scrapped
Expect the promotion to return to Montreal later in the year when we can anticipate the return of a healthy Georges St. Pierre.
full story via: The CA Press
Monday, January 16, 2012
UFC 142: Jose Aldo's Celebrates with RIO Faithful (Video)
The greatest Featherweight of all time goes bonkers after his 1st Round Hail Mary KO of Chad Mendes this past Saturday Night in Rio de Janeiro.
The Weekend in Violence: Three Stars (RIO Edition)
Out of ten fights in RIO this past weekend a Brazilian fighter had his hand raised nine times. Two of those times another Brazilian martial artist was on the losing end. What do these numbers tell us? That the biggest talent pool in the game today is STILL in Brazil, and it's alive, well and thriving. So guess how many of our three stars are of Brazilian descent.....
photo via: @the_MMA_Intern
1. Jose Aldo
Jose Aldo defended his title successfully in his first two fights for the UFC via Unanimous Decision. This led to a lot of talk comparing him George St. Pierre and such for people who demand finishes from their fighters. Folks were saying that Aldo had been playing it safe since his promotional debut in Toronto last April. One well timed knee at the end of the 1st Round against the previously undefeated Chad Mendes and he's back to being discussed as one of the top three pound for pound fighters in the world...right where he belongs.
2. Edson Barboza
Barboza's bout against Terry Etim was exciting even before the spinning wheel kick KO. You have to assume that Etim was expecting another one of Barboza's explosive leg kicks when he left himself open for the historic wheel kick. Both Barboza and Etim collected an extra 65K for putting on the best fight of the night. Barboza took home another 65K on top of that for landing that wheel kick that forced his opponent to land stiff as a board on the canvas at the 2:02 marker of the final round.
3. Vitor Belfort
"Ole Ole Ole! Vitor, Vitor!" Belfort got the royal treatment from his fans in the HSBC Arena this past Saturday Night. Their reward? A rear naked choke finish that sent his overweight opponent looking for a new job. Johnson went two for eight on his take downs during a bout that only last 4:49. How is that even possible? Referee Dan Miragliotta was quick to stand up the fighters after Johnson had his first sign of success one the ground making one wonder if he had orders to do so. Or maybe he even took it upon himself (and rightfully so) considering the situation. Either way Vitor finished Johnson making him easier to fire, and the UFC brass is surely plenty thankful for it.
Sunday, January 15, 2012
What's Next for the cast of UFC 142: RIO?
"Who's House? Aldo's House."
After Jose Aldo knocked out Chad Mendes with a knee to the chin followed by some punches to the face for good measure he sprang out of the cage into the crowd to celebrate with his Brazilian faithful. It was truly one of the most exciting, scary and memorable moments in the history of the sport. The Jose Aldo we all told everyone about who didn't get a chance to see him in the WEC has now been introduced to the world. So what's next for the legit Pay Per View Headliner and his UFC 142 card mates? Let's take a gander...
photo via: ufc.com
UFC 142 RIO: Barboza's Wheel Kick KO
Barboza has been making waves in the promotion ever since his unforgettable TKO leg kick arsenal against Mike Lullo back at the Palace of Auburn Hills in the fall of 2010. After taking two straight in RIO we are certainly looking at one of the most exciting and possibly one of the most dangerous 155'ers in the world today.
gif via ironforgesiron
UFC RIO: Aldo vs. Mendes Bonuses: All Brazil, All Night
Twelve months from now this will be considered one of the best fight cards of the year.
$65K Bonuses we're given to the following overachieving UFC employees tonight.
• Fight of the Night: Edson Barboza vs. Terry Etim
• KO of the Night: Edson Barboza
• Submission of the Night: Rousimar Palhares
Saturday, January 14, 2012
UFC 142 RIO: Aldo vs. Mendes Live Results
Main Card:
• Featherweight Championship: Jose Aldo (C) (21-1 MMA, 3-0 UFC) defeats Chad Mendes (11-1 MMA, 2-1 UFC) via KO (knee and punches) (Round 1, 4:59) to retain his Featherweight Title
• Vitor Belfort (21-9 MMA, 10-5 UFC) defeats Anthony Johnson (10-4 MMA, 7-4 UFC) via RNC (Round 1, 4:49)
• Rouismar Palhares (14-3 MMA, 7-2 UFC) defeats Mike Massenzio (13-6 MMA, 2-4 UFC) via heel hook (Round 1, 1:03)
• Carlos Prater (30-10-1 MMA, 1-0 UFC) defeats Erick Silva (13-2 MMA, 1-1 UFC) via DQ (via illegal head blows) (Round 1, 0:29)
• Edson Barboza (10-0 MMA, 4-0 UFC) defeats Terry Etim (15-4 MMA, 6-4 UFC) via KO (wheel kick) (Round 3, 2:02)
Preliminary Card (FX):
• Thiago Tavares (17-4-1 MMA, 7-4-1 UFC) vs. Sam Stout (17-7-1 MMA, 6-6 UFC) via UD (29-28 x 3)
• Gabriel Gonzaga (13-6 MMA, 8-5 UFC) defeats Edinaldo Oliveira (13-1-1 MMA, 0-1 UFC) via RNC (Round 1, 3:22)
• Yuri Alcantara (27-3 MMA, 2-0 UFC) defeats Michihiro Omigawa (13-11-1 MMA, 1-5 UFC) via UD (30-27, 29-28, 30-27)
• Mike Pyle (22-8-1 MMA, 5-3 UFC) defeats Ricardo Funch (8-3 MMA , 0-3 UFC) via TKO (knee and punches) (Round 1, 1:22)
Preliminary Card (Facebook):
• Felipe Arantes (14-4 MMA, 1-1 UFC) defeats Antonio Carvalho (13-5 MMA, 0-1 UFC) via UD (29-28 x 3)
Friday, January 13, 2012
UFC 143: Diaz vs. Condit Official Trailer
The UFC Welterweight Interim Title is up for grabs this February in Sin City when Nick Diaz squares off against Carlos Condit on Super Bowl Weekend. Diaz and Condit are the consensus 2 & 3 fighters in the world behind the currently sidelined Welterweight Champion Georges St. Pierre in the 170 lb. division.
UFC 142 RIO: Pick 'Em
UFC 142 is a very rewarding card. It rewards the Brazilian MMA faithful (every fight features at least one fighter of Brazilian descent), the fans who caught UFC 134: RIO from start to finish, and the true fight fans who enjoy the brilliant match making of one Joe Silva.
The pick 'em segment, as always, is where have a little fun around these parts. As the year goes on expect to see some recurring guests join and offer their expertise.
Main Card (PPV)
• Featherweight Championship: Jose Aldo (C) vs. Chad Mendes
One of the toughest Main Event's to pick in recent memory. Aldo has fought a bit safer since coming to the UFC while Mendes has become a more well rounded fighter with every fight. When Mendes fought Yahya last August it was almost like it was an exhibition for Team Alpha Male standout. Tomorrow night is the fight the Challenger has been long overdue for and it's in the Champion's backyard. Expect to see the killer WEC era Aldo reborn tomorrow night in front RIO. Aldo via TKO.
• Vitor Belfort vs. Anthony Johnson
Anthony "Rumble" Johnson moves up in weight to take on a true legend in the sport. He decided to move up so far in weight that he came in 11 pounds over the limit. All jokes aside the story is that Johnson was sick and therefore he couldn't shed the correct poundage. When it comes down to it this one is pretty simple. If the fight ends early its likely Belfort via spazz. The longer it goes on though it's A. Rumble's world. I'll take the crafty vet. Belfort via TKO.
• Rouismar Palhares vs. Mike Massenzio
You never know what's going to happen when Paul "House of Cards" Harris steps into the cage. Yes the guy may be crazy enough to need a sports psychologist due to his bizarre conduct on the job, but he's also talented enough to be one of the top Middleweights in the game. He's lost two of his last thirteen fights. Those losses came against dudes named Dan Henderson and Nate Marquardt....and the Marquardt one was..well..interesting to say the least. Nothing against Massenzio but he's not in the same league as Palhares. Palhares via filthy submission.
• Erick Silva vs. Carlos Prater
Silva via highlight reel KO.
• Edson Barboza vs. Terry Etim
Don't show up late for the Pay Per View portion of this card. This fight is a doozy. Submission Wizard from England against a Muay Thai phenom fighting for his second straight time in Brazil. Pearson gave Barboza a run for his money in RIO last August and you can expect Etim to do the same. I expect this one to stay upright and for Barboza to utilize his devastating leg kicks and earn a victory via something awesome.
Preliminary Card (FX)
• Thiago Tavares vs. Sam Stout
Both of these guys are stud Lightweights who may never compete for a title shot but who would pose a threat to anyone at 155. I"ll take "Hands of Stone" Stout to increase his win streak to three and draw a big name for his next fight.
• Gabriel Gonzaga vs. Edinaldo Oliveira
Never judge a book by its cover. Oliveira's strange looking physique may give some doubts that he can hang with the former #1 contender in "Napao" Gonazaga. Gonzaga may be coming in with the weight advantage but "Squidward" Oliveira has a clear advantage in the height and reach department. People have been making a big fuss about how Oliveira trains with the current Heavyweight Champion in Junior dos Santos. This isn't dos Santos vs. Gonzaga II. This is Gonzaga vs. Oliveira. Oliveira wins regardless via KO.
• Michihiro Omigawa vs. Yuri Alcantara
Omigawa finally wins his first UFC fight and now he gets to fight a guy who's on a 12 fight win streak. This is the big leagues. Although his record may look a little funky, this is a guy who holds wins over the best of the best. Omigawa via TKO.
• Ricardo Funch vs. Mike Pyle
Pyle needs this one to redeem himself after being handled by the up and coming force that the kids these days like to call Rory MacDonald. Funch is the "golden" victim. Pyle via submission.
Preliminary Card (Facebook):
• Felipe Arantes vs. Antonio Carvalho
Antonio "The Beard" Carvalho rocked some sexy specs at today's weigh ins that would've even made Richard S. Golden proud. Based on that, and only that, I give Carvalho the win via Decision.
Don't F**K with Frank Mir
Apparently Frank Mir is not a big fan of the hokey pokey. Watch Mir pull off another quick reversal on this UFC Undisputed 3 prankster.
UFC 142 RIO: When Jose met Gray (Video)
Could Gray Maynard's time with Jose Aldo be the X-Factor when the Featherweight Champion goes to war with Chad Mendes tomorrow night?
UFC 142 RIO: Live Weigh In Stream/Results
Main Card (PPV)
• Featherweight Championship: Jose Aldo (C) (145) vs. Chad Mendes (144)
• Vitor Belfort (186) vs. Anthony Johnson (197)* (came in eleven pounds overweight. Vitor has agreed to make it a catchweight bout but Johnson must weigh no more than 205 tomorrow. Vitor gets 20% of Johnson's purse.)
• Rouismar Palhares (186) vs. Mike Massenzio (184)
• Erick Silva (169) vs. Carlos Prater (170)
• Edson Barboza (154) vs. Terry Etim (155)
Preliminary Card (FX)
• Thiago Tavares (155) vs. Sam Stout (155)
• Gabriel Gonzaga (250) vs. Edinaldo Oliveira (229)
• Michihiro Omigawa (146) vs. Yuri Alcantara (145)
• Ricardo Funch (170) vs. Mike Pyle (171)
Preliminary Card (Facebook):
• Felipe Arantes (145) vs. Antonio Carvalho (144)
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Now Anderson Silva Can Fight His Clone
Now Anderson Silva can finally fight his clone. This is all made possible with the addition of mirror matches to this years offering of UFC Undisputed by THQ.
This UFC Undisputed 3 preview also drives home that the roster size for this game is humongous big (in the words of Philadelphia Flyers goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov). With 150 fighters in all, including a lethal PRIDE roster, you can guarantee that fight geeks around the world will be soccer kicking faces to their heart's content come February 14th.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
The UFC Returns to Atlanta this Spring for their 146th Numbered Event
The last time the Ultimate Fighting Championship visited Atlanta we witnessed one of the most brutal Main Event KO's of all time. This April the UFC returns to the same setting and the possibilities are endless. Could Rashad return to the scene of the crime and KO the kid they call "Bones"? Or will we see former Heavyweight Champion Cain Velasquez return to the Octagon? Maybe Shane Carwin, the debut of "Bigfoot", or even the completion of a Shogun vs. Machida trilogy.
UFC Tonight on @FUELTV revealed the location of UFC 146, a Mixed Martial Arts event scheduled for April 21st, on their broadcast tonight. Word around the campfire was the much anticipated Spring Pay Per View card would take place on the East Coast. Not the case. UFC 146 will take place in Atlanta, Georgia. The last time the Ultimate Fighting Championship visited Georgia was wayyy back on September 6th of 2008 when Rashad Evans sent the world a message by taking the soul of Chuck Liddell with his right hand.
Who do you think will headline UFC 146 in Atlanta? Feel free to comment and debate below.
2011 Fighter of the Year: Jon Jones
Jon Jones 2011: (4-0, 3 finishes via submission, 1 via TKO)
Significant Strikes: 180/325 (55%)
Total Strikes: 233/382 (61%)
Takedowns: 8/13 (62%)
Submission Attempts: 3/6 (50%)
His Opponents: (0-4)
Significant Strikes: 59/148 (40%)
Total Strikes: 76/165 (46%)
Takedowns: 0/4 (0%)
His Victims (Ryan Bader, Mauricio "Shogun" Rua, Quinton "Rampage" Jackson & Lyoto Machida)
Whats in store for the current UFC Light Heavyweight Champion in 2012? If Rashad Evans defeats Phil Davis in Chicago later this month and comes out unscathed expect to seem them battle this spring. If not it's Dan Henderson or Davis.
photo: mademan
stats via: fightmetric
UFC: Sweden has a Headliner
The announcement was made by the UFC earlier today. MMAFighting confirms that the fight will be scheduled for 3 Rounds due to the April 14th Event not being broadcast on pay per view.
A Bantamweight scrap between Brad "One Punch" Pickett (20-6 MMA, 0-1 UFC) and Damacio Page (12-6 MMA, 0-1 UFC) was also added to the card earlier today.
Dana White's UFC 142 Vlog Day 1 Takes us Behind the Scenes of UFC 141: Lesnar vs. Overeem
It's become a given lately that the first of Dana White's UFC event vlogs take us behind the scenes of the event prior. Such backstage and inside the cage access has become the norm for the promotion in the past year. I can tell you that even the biggest Dana haters out there enjoy these vlogs from start to finish because they concentrate on what we're here for. The sport and the fighters.
The one shot of Matyushenko and Gustafsson divided by lockers, the victorious team sitting down, slapping hands, laughing and smiling in triumph, while the fallen stand emotionless.... that scene is particularly memorable. Really cool exchange between Hendricks, L. Fertitta and Rogan as well.
The vlog ends with Brock Lesnar's final entrance into the Octagon and exit from the sport of MMA.
Watch the first 5 Minutes of Gina Carano's "Haywire"
The first 5 minutes of the new Steven Soderbergh film starring Women's MMA Icon Gina Carano opens in theaters a week from this coming Friday. To get even more of a buzz going Relativity media has released the opening scene from the film online.
I've only seen this done in the past with the Dark Knight films and as a certified nerd I can say watching those openings more times than I could count on both fingers increases the anticipation tenfold plus. Now obviously "Haywire" isn't Batman but I don't see this early release of footage having anything but a positive affect whether it be large or small when it's all said and done. Again you can catch "Haywire" in theaters on January 20th. The film also stars Ewan McGregor (Star Wars Episodes I-III, Trainspotting), Channing Tatum (Fighting, G.I. Joe), and Michael Fassbender (X-Men: First Class, 300) with appearances by A-Listers such as Michael Douglas, Antonio Banderas, and Bill Paxton.
Monday, January 9, 2012
January 2012 Female P4P Rankings: Mega Megu, Still #1
*these rankings were written before the Cyborg drug test drama.
Female P4P (1/3/11)
1. Megumi Fujii (25-1) (1)
2. Cristiane *Cyborg* Santos (11-1) (2)
3. Miesha Tate (12-2) (3)
4. Zoila Frausto Gurgel (11-1) (4)
5. Marloes Coenen (19-5) (5)
6. Sarah Kaufman (14-1) (6)
7. Tara LaRosa (20-2) (7)
8. Jessica Aguilar (12-4) (↑9)
9. Rosi Sexton (12-2) (↓8)
10. Ronda Rousey (4-0) (↑NR)
cusp (Tsuji, Yamaguchi, Davis, Nakai, Baszler)
January 2012 Male P4P Rankings: Them "Bones"
When it comes to ranking "Bones" I've been as patient as anyone. Let's see what this kid does when he starts fighting the big guns right? Well after finishing everyone in his path, including three former champions in one year, we may be looking at the most dangerously active individual in the sport entering 2012.
Can anybody beat this guy? We may find out as soon as March. Rumor has it that Dan Henderson may be next for the Champ. If not expect the winner of Rashad vs. Phil Davis this Spring.
Male P4P (1/3/11)
1. Anderson Silva (31-4) (1)
2. Jon Jones (15-1) (↑5)
3. Georges St. Pierre (22-2) (↓2)
4. Frankie Edgar (14-1-1) (↓3)
5. Jose Aldo (20-1) (↓4)
6. Dominick Cruz (19-1) (6)
7. Junior Dos Santos (14-1) (7)
8. Dan Henderson (29-8) (8)
9. Joseph Benavidez (15-2) (9)
10. Nick Diaz (26-7-1) (↑10)
cusp (Evans, Faber, Melendez, Rua, Penn)
January 2012 Rankings by weight class after the break (or just click here)
Sunday, January 8, 2012
The Weekend in Violence: Three Stars (Strikeforce Edition)
photo: sherdog
1. King "Mo" Lawal
Mo landed 15 consecutive unanswered strikes on the face of Lorenz Larkin just over a minute into the 2nd Round of their fight last night, hypnotizing referee Kim Winslow in the process. The King, being the gentleman that he is showing respect for his opponent, asked Winslow why she didn't stop the fight earlier. Even more impressive was the fact that Lawal didn't embarrass Winslow during the post fight interview saying that he understood the decision. Whether he was just saying that out loud and didn't believe it is besides the point. Many folk, including myself, ripped Winslow throughout the night via various social networks due to continuous mistakes, but it took a real professional in the Zuffa employed Light Heavyweight contender to show all around respect for his fallen opponent and the referee in charge regardless of the outcome. Respect and Violence. That's what this sport is all about.
2. Luke Rockhold
A loss in his first title defense against Keith Jardine would've really set back the newly crowned Strikeforce Middleweight Champ. Rockhold took care of business by finishing "The Dean of Mean" in the 1st Round in very convincing fashion. Taking a page out of the book of "El Nino" , Rockhold even called out UFC fighters to come over and try to take his belt. I don't see anyone running at a pay cut and demotion anytime soon but stranger things have happened. Expect Tim Kennedy next for the Champ.
3. Robbie Lawler
Lawler needed this victory more than anyone on the card. After taking an illegal knee that would've given a lot of guys the excuse to quit, "Ruthless" came back and landed a very awkward and effective flying knee that was the beginning of the end for Adlan Amagov. This puts Lawler right back in the mix considering he is a part of a very shallow SF Middleweight division. If Jardine got a title shot who's to say Lawler wouldn't make a good late replacement for Kennedy or Souza should they get injured.
UFC RIO (Aldo vs. Mendes) - Extended Preview
Next Saturday in RIO Jose Aldo will be putting his Bantamweight Title on the line for the 5th time. His opponent will be his toughest to date. The undefeated Chad Mendes presents problems for Aldo in every aspect of his game. It'll be interesting if this challenge brings back the killer instinct in Aldo that we haven't seen since his days in the WEC.
This Extended Preview via UFC also takes a closer look at a Middleweight "Rumble" between Vitor Belfort and Anthony Johnson who will be making his 185 debut.
It all goes down on January 14th live on Pay Per View with the full Preliminary Card being aired on FX for the first time in the promotions history as a part of the new FOX deal.
UFC on Fuel TV 2: Gustafsson vs. Nogueira Fight Card
* fight card subject to change UFC on Fuel TV 2
April 14, 2011
Stockholm, Sweden
Ericsson Globe Arena
• Alexander Gustafsson vs. Antonio Rogerio Nogueira
• Brian Stann vs. Alessio Sakara
• Papy Abedi vs. James Head
• Brad Pickett vs. Damacio Page
• Paulo Thiago vs. Siyar Bahadurzada
• Simeon Thoresen vs. Besam Yousef
• Magnus Cedenblad vs. Francis Carmont
• Jorgen Kruth vs. Cyrille Diabate
• DaMarques Johnson vs. John Maguire
Strikeforce: Tate vs. Rousey Fight Card
Miesha Tate will make the first defense of her Strikeforce Bantamweight Title on March 3rd in Columbus, Ohio against undefeated Judo Gold Medalist Ronda Rousey.
• Women's Bantamweight Championship: Miesha Tate (C) (12-2) vs. Ronda Rousey (4-0)
• Gegard Mousasi (32-3-2) vs. TBA
• Paul Daley (29-11-2) vs. Kazuo Misaki (24-11-2)
• Ronaldo Souza (14-3) vs. Bristol Marunde (15-6)
• K.J. Noons (11-4) vs. Josh Thomson (18-4)
• Sarah Kaufman (14-1) vs. Alexis Davis (11-4)
• Pat Healy (26-16) vs. Caros Fodor (7-1)
• Ryan Couture (3-1) vs. Conor Heun (9-4)
Saturday, January 7, 2012
Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine Results
• Middleweight Championship: Luke Rockhold (C) (9-1 MMA, 8-0 Strikeforce) defeats Keith Jardine (17-10-2 MMA, 0-1-1 Strikeforce) via TKO (strikes) (Round 1, 4:26) to retain his title
• Robbie Lawler (19-8 MMA, 3-4 Strikeforce) defeats Adlan Amagov (9-2-1 MMA, 2-1 Strikeforce) via TKO (flying knee and punches) (Round 1, 1:48)
• "King Mo" Muhammed Lawal (9-1 MMA, 4-1 Strikeforce) defeats Lorenz Larkin (12-1 MMA, 3-1 Strikeforce) via TKO (Round 2, 1:32)
• Tyron Woodley (10-0 MMA, 8-0 Strikeforce) defeats Jordan Mein (23-8 MMA, 1-1 Strikeforce) via Split Decision (28-29, 29-28, 30-27)
• Tarec Saffiedine (12-3 MMA, 4-1 Strikeforce) defeats Tyler Stinson (22-8 MMA, 1-1 Strikeforce) via Split Decision (28-29, 30-27, 29-28)
Preliminary Card (Showtime Extreme)
• Nah-Shon Burrell (8-1) defeats James Terry (11-4) via Split Decision (29-28 x 3)
• Gian Villante (9-3) defeats Trevor Smith (9-2) via TKO (punches) (Round 1, 1:05)
• Ricky Legere (14-4) defeats Chris Sprang (4-1) via UD (29-28 x 3)
• Estevan Payan (13-3) defeats Alonzo Martinez (35-16-1) via UD (30-27 x 3)
photo credit: combatlifestyle
Strikeforce: Rockhold vs. Jardine Main Card Pick 'Em
Main Card (Showtime)
• Middleweight Championship: Luke Rockhold (C) vs. Keith Jardine
A wise man once said that anything is possible. He said it really really loud. That man was named Kevin Garnett.
Jardine looked awful in his last fight against Mousasi. He's won 2 of his last 8 fights. Yet somehow he get's a title shot based on name recognition and a virtually nonexistent Strikeforce Middlweight depth chart.
Rockhold on the other hand has been a machine, taking his first 7 victories via 1st Round finish. What even impressed me more was what he did last September in the Natti. Rockhold proved he could go the distance with a world class fighter in "Jacare" and strip him of the title.
I'll be taking Jardine this week based on a new law. It's called the law of Hendricks. A quick KO and a Middleweight Title for you Sir! Jardine via Mean Style
• Robbie Lawler vs. Adlan Amagov
Amagov via KO. Lawler has already seen his best days.
• King Mo Lawal vs. Lorenz Larkin
Lawal via anything you can do I can do better
• Tyron Woodley vs. Jordan Mein
Woodley can win this one easily if he decides to lay on the vicious Canadian. If Woodley decides to experiment a bit and test his stand up Mein could pull off the upset. I'm taking Mein via TKO here because that's who I'm rooting for and its the first Pick ' Em of the year. Why not have some fun. I don't mind playing from behind.
• Tarec Saffiedine vs. Tyler Stinson
Sponge via Decision of the Unanimous variety.
2012 YTD: 0-0
2011: 200-119 (63%)
2010: 110-60 (65%)
Career Pick 'Em: 310-179 (63%)
Friday, January 6, 2012
Fight of the Year 2011: Frankie Edgar vs. Gray Maynard 2 and 3
Forty Three Minutes and Fifty Four Seconds
UFC 125: Resolution
January 1, 2011
Las Vegas, Nevada
MGM Grand Garden Arena
Final Result: Frankie Edgar (C) and Gray Maynard fight to a split draw (46-48, 48-46, 47-47)
UFC 136: Edgar vs. Maynard III
October 8, 2011
Houston, Texas
Toyota Center
Final Result: Frankie Edgar (C) defeats Gray Maynard via TKO (punches) (Round 4, 3:54) to retain his UFC Lightweight Title
A History of Edgar vs. Maynard 2011:
The Weekend in Violence: Three Stars (Edgar vs. Maynard Edition)
UFC 136: Frankie Edgar TKO's Gray Maynard
UFC 136 Results: Frankie Edgar is a real life Rocky Balboa
UFC 136 Just Got Real
Breaking News: Edgar, Maynard both injured... off UFC 130
UFC 130: Edgar vs. Maynard III is Official
Respect for "Fe"
Dana White changes his mind, Edgar vs. Maynard 3 booked
UFC 125: Edgar vs. Maynard Video Highlights
Edgar vs. Pettis booked, No rematch for Maynard following Draw
UFC 125 Results: Edgar vs. Maynard ends in Draw
Honorable Mentions: Michael Chandler vs. Eddie Alvarez (Bellator 58), Dan Henderson vs. Mauricio "Shogun" Rua (UFC 139)
photo: Tracy Lee for Yahoo!
Lady Cyborg Popped for Roids, Victory over Yamanaka Overturned
The Full CSAC release:
CALIFORNIA STATE ATHLETIC COMMISSION SUSPENDS LICENSE OF FIGHTER CRISTIANE JUSTINO SANTOS - a.k.a. CRIS CYBORGvia: bloodyelbow
Mixed Martial Arts fighter tested positive for anabolic steroid in December 16, 2011 test
The California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) has suspended the license of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighter Cristiane Justino Santos, better known in MMA circles as Cris Cyborg, and has fined her $2,500 as the result of a positive test for a banned substance.
Santos' December 16, 2011 drug test came back positive for stanozolol metabolites. CSAC learned of the test results December 23, 2011 and suspended Santos's license, with the suspension applied retroactively to December 16, 2011. In accordance with Rule 368, the result of her last fight between Hiroko Yamanaka will be changed to a "No Decision".
"Our primary concern is for the health and safety of fighters," said CSAC Executive Officer George Dodd. "Anabolic agents and other banned substances put not only the users of those agents at risk, but their opponents as well. The commission simply will not tolerate their use."
The use of certain substances, including anabolic steroids, is prohibited under the Commission's regulations, and CSAC has among the toughest drug testing standards of any Athletic Commission in the country. It is the only commission that requires urine samples to be taken in the presence of a commission representative prior to a bout.
Santos's provision of a urine sample was observed by a CSAC representative and the sample was sent to the World Anti-doping Agency test facility at the University of California, Los Angeles. Santos has the right to appeal the suspension of her license.
Cristiane Santos moves back to 10-1 and will likely be stripped of her Strikeforce Featherweight title and her #1 Ranking on many MMA sites while Hiroko Yamanaka becomes 12-1 again and should move down to Bantamweight if she decides to fight again under the SF banner. Lady Cyborg testing positive for anabolic steroids means there is no more use for the 145 division under Zuffa. Tate vs. Rousey in March has just become even bigger.
Thursday, January 5, 2012
KO of the Year 2011: Anderson Silva Posterizes Vitor Belfort's Face
UFC 126: Silva vs. Belfort
February 5, 2011
Las Vegas, Nevada
Mandalay Bay Events Center
The Front Kick Heard Round the World.
Our coverage:
Anderson Silva finishes Belfort via Devastating Front Kick KO
A History of Silva vs. Belfort
Anderson Silva Front Kick KO GIF
The Mystery Behind Anderson Silva's Mask
Honorable Mentions: Machida retires Couture via Crane Kick in Toronto. Kongo comes back from the dead to KO Barry in Pittsburgh.
Submission of the Year 2011: Zombie Revenge
March 26, 2011
Seattle, Washington
KeyArena
artwork via: olieng.net/
Chan Sung Jung shared Fight of the Year honors with Leonard Garcia in 2010 on most respected mma websites. A lot of those same sites (including this one) had "The Korean Zombie" winning that very fight, which wouldn't be the first or last time the judges awarded Garcia a decision he didn't deserve. So what did the Zombie have in store for the rematch? The rebirth of Eddie Bravos twister. Check out the gif here.
Honorable Mention: Mir submitting Minotauro via kimura at UFC 140
Staredown of the Year 2011: Silva's Mask
UFC 126: Silva vs. Belfort Weigh Ins
Friday February 4, 2011
Vegas
Belfort in an interview the day before the weigh in:
"I just know one thing, when you say silly things, when you do silly things, it’s because you’re worried and you’re trying to wear a mask.......The way I fight, and the way I am, I have respect. I just need to wear one mask, myself."
Belfort the day after the weigh in:
"His actions speak louder than his words. I think he respects me. I just think he wears the mask, trying to intimidate me......He can see it in my eyes. I’m on fire. I’m not getting intimidated by anyone."
Think Silva got inside Belfort's head ?
BJ Penn is Fired Up! Calls Out Nick Diaz and Jon Fitch on Twitter
via @bjpenndotcom
"http://yfrog.com/oc35195437j – @nickdiaz209 Look how much bigger you are in this pic..I thought you were gonna scrap from the beginning homie? What was that coward fence holding strategy to tire out the smaller man? Street fighter my ass! I made you fight like glass jaw @jonfitchdotnet poser!
I’ll be ready for that weak bs next time we fight!"
So is this really B.J? Yes. Yes it is. Is B.J. back already after that short of a layoff. Check out Pedro Carrasco's thoughts over at bjpenn.com
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Event of the Year 2011: UFC 139
Two Legends of the sport exchange for 5 Rounds in a war that many have dubbed the Greatest UFC Fight of all time. One Axe Murderer turns back time by rearranging the face of an undefeated kickboxing movie star with a vicious muay thai clinic. And a California Kid scores another violent finish earning himself a trilogy fight with the current Bantamweight Champion of the World. All this and much more equals the best event top to bottom coming out of the most hectic year professional Mixed Martial Arts has seen.
Beatdown of the Year 2011: Brian Stann's Vulgar Display of Power
UFC 125: Resolution
January 1, 2011
Las Vegas, Nevada
MGM Grand Garden Arena
Referee Josh Rosenthal stopped The All American from beating the piss out of his opponent Chris Leben at the 3:37 marker of the very 1st Round. He probably could've done it a bit earlier. Stann may have KO'ed Leben once, or he may have three times. Either way, New Years Day 2011 was the official arrival of a new player in the UFC Middleweight Division. Stann went on to KO former Sengoku Champion Jorge Santiago to make it three finishes in a row in his new weight class in the Spring. This scored the former WEC Light Heavyweight Champion a date with Chael Sonnen to close out the year in October.
It took a gangster from the mean streets of West Linn, Oregon to derail Captain America. Sonnen's superior wrestling proved to be a bit much for Stann, just like Phil Davis was back in 2010, a defeat that forced him to make that drop to 185. Despite his achilles' heel I wouldn't be surprised if Stann comes out of the gate in 2012 with the same ferocity he did on January 1st, 2011. This guy is still a monster threat for anyone who finds himself locked inside of a cage with him in Vegas or any other town. Oh yeah, what was Leben's excuse for getting dropped three times in one fight? : "I ate a bunch of candy, dude. I'm not lying,"
Honorable Mention: UFC 131: Junior dos Santos vs. Shane Carwin
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
The Weekend in Violence: Three Stars
Two MMA events chock full of big names and big violence closed out the 2011 calendar year. It wasn't easy narrowing the list down to three this weekend hence the longer than usual honorable mention list. Happy 2012, you sick fucks.
1. Nate Diaz
It's funny. I usually don't read the list of anyone else until I write mine but this weekend was a little hectic. With no time to write I couldn't help but stay current via my mobile on the hippest MMA sites during breaks at my 9-5. So getting to the point, I have to say I was amazed to see Nate Diaz omitted from one of the bigger names "Three Stars" of the weekend list. I mean he only set the compustrike record for striking accuracy in a full three round fifteen minute fight by landing 258 of his 314 attempted punches on the "Cowboy" in Vegas this past Friday as a 2:1 underdog. Diaz put on the best performance in MMA this past weekend and it wasn't even CLOSE.
2. Johny Hendricks
Hendricks 12 second disposal of Jon Fitch will have a lasting affect on the UFC Welterweight division for the duration of 2012. While Hendricks may be asking for a little much when it comes to an immediate title shot, a match up against the winner of Condit vs. Diaz if St. Pierre isn't fully recovered yet this summer wouldn't be the worst idea I've ever heard.
3. Bibiano Fernandes
Anytime you beat two fighters in one night you'll usually find yourself on this list. Fernandes staked his claim as one of the top Bantamweight fighters in the world by taking three fights (two on New Years Eve in Saitama) in just under twelve minutes to win the DREAM Bantamweight World Grand Prix and Inaugural DREAM Bantamweight Championship.
Honorable Mentions: Jimy Hettes, Alistair Overeem, Fedor Emelianenko, Megumi Fujii, Yuta Kubo, Alexander Gustafsson
The Weekend in Violence Archive
photo - ufc
Chael's Corner Debuts Tonight on Fuel TV
Fuel TV will launch its weekly "UFC Tonight" series at 10 PM EST featuring the very first re occurring "Chael's Corner" segment. Check out the teaser above.
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Breakout Fighter of the Year 2011: Daniel Cormier
A 6-0 Collegiate wrestling standout training with some of the best of the best over at AKA, Daniel Cormier started his 2011 campaign as thee Heavyweight to watch out for. He ended it on everyone's radar.
After taking a UD victory to start off the season in Nashville against crafty Team Quest veteran Devin Cole, he followed it up by doing what he was supposed to do. Reeling off another victory in a Strikeforce Heavyweight Grand Prix Reserve Bout against Jeff Monson made him the first choice to fill in for Alistair Overeem when he got his promotion.
The Cormier vs. "Bigfoot" Silva GP Semi-Final match up was an intriguing one on paper. Could Cormier use his elite wrestling to decision the giant? Or would Bigfoot display some of his jiu-jitsu or ground and pound he utilized en route to his victory over Fedor in the 1st Round of the tourney? Neither would be necessary. Instead Cormier broke his hand knocking out Bigfoot showing that he may just be one of the most well rounded fighters in the division.
Early in 2012 Cormier will fight Josh Barnett in the Finals of a Strikeforce Heavyweight Grand Prix that has lasted over a year. If Cormier should win under the new agreement between Strikeforce and Showtime he'll have to fight once again on Showtime. If he losses it's likely a ticket to the UFC since Heavyweights will no longer be included on the Strikeforce roster. Either way, dude will be a major player in the Octagon for years to come.
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