Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Elite XC "Street Certified" Results
I have yet to see all the fights from Elite XC's biggest event to date. Apparently they had a sell out crowd present in Miami. The Kimbo v. Tank fight went exactly as how I thought it would with Tank gassed and knocked out in the first. There were two strange stoppages, one because of strikes to the back of the head when Tank was on all fours and another when something made its way into the arena. After being saved, Tank took a big shot to the face and was dropped like a sack of potatoes.
If you haven't already, watch the Yves Edwards v. Edson Berto fight. While Edson Berto had a deep single leg in, Yves clobbered Berto with his opposite knee. One of the most athletic KO's I have seen. I wouldn't call it a flying knee like I have seen listed, but it was awesome.
James Thompson's game plan of pushing Brett Rodgers around didn't work. After being taken down and let up, Rodgers smashed Thompson right on the chin and got the KO. Thompson tried to grapple with the ref afterwards and had no idea what planet he was on.
Undercard
Moyses Gabin def Jirka Hlavati via TKO R1, 2:32
Lorenzo Borgomeo def Mike Bernhard via Sub(triangle) R2, 4:11
Eric Bradley def Mikey Gomez via Unanimous Decision
Dave "Pee Wee" Herman def Mario Rinaldi via (TKO) R3, :33
Yosmany Cabezas def Jon Kirk via Sub (RNC) R2, :58
Rafael Feijao def John Doyle via TKO (knee) R1, 2:17
Main Card
Brett Rogers def James Thompson via TKO (punches) R1, 2:24
Yves Edwards def Edson Berto via KO (knee KO) R1. 4:56
Scott Smith def Kyle Noke via KO (punch) R2, :07
Antonio Silva def Ricco Rodriguez via Split Dec
Kimbo Slice def Tank Abbott via KO (punch) R1, :43
If you haven't already, watch the Yves Edwards v. Edson Berto fight. While Edson Berto had a deep single leg in, Yves clobbered Berto with his opposite knee. One of the most athletic KO's I have seen. I wouldn't call it a flying knee like I have seen listed, but it was awesome.
James Thompson's game plan of pushing Brett Rodgers around didn't work. After being taken down and let up, Rodgers smashed Thompson right on the chin and got the KO. Thompson tried to grapple with the ref afterwards and had no idea what planet he was on.
Undercard
Moyses Gabin def Jirka Hlavati via TKO R1, 2:32
Lorenzo Borgomeo def Mike Bernhard via Sub(triangle) R2, 4:11
Eric Bradley def Mikey Gomez via Unanimous Decision
Dave "Pee Wee" Herman def Mario Rinaldi via (TKO) R3, :33
Yosmany Cabezas def Jon Kirk via Sub (RNC) R2, :58
Rafael Feijao def John Doyle via TKO (knee) R1, 2:17
Main Card
Brett Rogers def James Thompson via TKO (punches) R1, 2:24
Yves Edwards def Edson Berto via KO (knee KO) R1. 4:56
Scott Smith def Kyle Noke via KO (punch) R2, :07
Antonio Silva def Ricco Rodriguez via Split Dec
Kimbo Slice def Tank Abbott via KO (punch) R1, :43
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Friday, February 15, 2008
Strikeforce - At the Dome February 23rd
Bodog Presents: Strikeforce at the Dome - Preview by the MMA Blaster
+I'll put out the results once I see most of the fights. So far they have been hard to find.+
The most recent installment comes at us this Saturday, February 23rd from Tacoma, Washington. While this card doesn't have the star power of the March 29th Shamrock v. Le card, there will be some exciting fights. There is a decent article on the Strikeforce website, but the records they use are a bit decieving. I think they integrate kickboxing and boxing records with MMA record, so I'm not using that. The event will be broadcast live on HDNet at 10:30 Eastern time.
Main Card:
Jan Nortje (1-5) v. Bob Sapp (9-2-1)- There will be some serious weight pushed around for this one. Bob Sapp overpowered his last opponent, Bobby Ologun (2-2) in a K-1 event in Japan. That was Sapp's first fight since 2005. While Sapp is a massive 6'5" weighing 300 pounds, Nortje is 6'10" and weighs upwards of 300 pounds as well. Strikeforce has Nortje's record as (25-17, I'm guessing that is K-1 kickboxing) and claims he is an undefeated boxer. I'm guessing that Sapp will try to take down Nortje and ground and pound. Hopefully these two don't destroy the cage.
Maurice Smith (11-10) v. Rick "The Jet" Roufus (0-0)- Ex UFC heavyweight champ Mo Smith is also a former K1 North American kickboxing champ. Strikefore lists his record at (73-20-4, I'm guessing K-1 record). Roufus is a six-time world kickboxing champion and former World Boxing Council (WBC) Continental Americas champion, the Strikeforce listed record of (57-7) is probably a kickboxing record. Look for the two fighters to stand and trade. Someone will probably end up KO'd.
Joe Riggs (27-9) v. Cory Devela (7-1)- UFC vet Riggs is coming off an impressive win at the Strikeforce Playboy event over Eugene Jackson (15-8). Riggs dominated Jackson knocking him out in the first round. Devela's last outing saw him win a decision over UFC vet Lodune Sincaid (12-6). Devela's only loss was to UFC vet Ed Herman.
Jorge Masvidal (12-2) v. Ryan Healy (9-2-1)- Since Healy's loss to Razor Rob in the WEC he has bounced back with two TKO wins over Robbie Shamrock (0-1) and Ryan Bixler (13-4). Masvidal has been on a tear since his loss to Paul Rodriguez, winning 6 straight (3 in Bodog, 1 in Strikeforce) including wins over Yves Edwards (33-13), Matt Lee (9-7), Steve Berger (18-17) and Keith Wisniewski (22-12).
Brad Blackburn (10-9-1) v. Ray Perales (9-13)- IFL vet Blackburn actually KO'd IFL welterweight champ Jay Hieron (14-4) prior to his last fight which ended in a no contest. Ray Perales scored a decision win over Blackburn in their previous fight in 2005. Since that win, Perales has gone (2-6).
Undercard:
Steve Berger (18-17) v. Eddy Ellis (13-14)
Andrew Peterson (1-0) v. Mychal Clark (4-3)
Nathan Coy (2-0) v. Chris Davis (?)
Zach Skinner (2-2) v. Scott Shaffer (?)
Bob Sapp highlight
+I'll put out the results once I see most of the fights. So far they have been hard to find.+
The most recent installment comes at us this Saturday, February 23rd from Tacoma, Washington. While this card doesn't have the star power of the March 29th Shamrock v. Le card, there will be some exciting fights. There is a decent article on the Strikeforce website, but the records they use are a bit decieving. I think they integrate kickboxing and boxing records with MMA record, so I'm not using that. The event will be broadcast live on HDNet at 10:30 Eastern time.
Main Card:
Jan Nortje (1-5) v. Bob Sapp (9-2-1)- There will be some serious weight pushed around for this one. Bob Sapp overpowered his last opponent, Bobby Ologun (2-2) in a K-1 event in Japan. That was Sapp's first fight since 2005. While Sapp is a massive 6'5" weighing 300 pounds, Nortje is 6'10" and weighs upwards of 300 pounds as well. Strikeforce has Nortje's record as (25-17, I'm guessing that is K-1 kickboxing) and claims he is an undefeated boxer. I'm guessing that Sapp will try to take down Nortje and ground and pound. Hopefully these two don't destroy the cage.
Maurice Smith (11-10) v. Rick "The Jet" Roufus (0-0)- Ex UFC heavyweight champ Mo Smith is also a former K1 North American kickboxing champ. Strikefore lists his record at (73-20-4, I'm guessing K-1 record). Roufus is a six-time world kickboxing champion and former World Boxing Council (WBC) Continental Americas champion, the Strikeforce listed record of (57-7) is probably a kickboxing record. Look for the two fighters to stand and trade. Someone will probably end up KO'd.
Joe Riggs (27-9) v. Cory Devela (7-1)- UFC vet Riggs is coming off an impressive win at the Strikeforce Playboy event over Eugene Jackson (15-8). Riggs dominated Jackson knocking him out in the first round. Devela's last outing saw him win a decision over UFC vet Lodune Sincaid (12-6). Devela's only loss was to UFC vet Ed Herman.
Jorge Masvidal (12-2) v. Ryan Healy (9-2-1)- Since Healy's loss to Razor Rob in the WEC he has bounced back with two TKO wins over Robbie Shamrock (0-1) and Ryan Bixler (13-4). Masvidal has been on a tear since his loss to Paul Rodriguez, winning 6 straight (3 in Bodog, 1 in Strikeforce) including wins over Yves Edwards (33-13), Matt Lee (9-7), Steve Berger (18-17) and Keith Wisniewski (22-12).
Brad Blackburn (10-9-1) v. Ray Perales (9-13)- IFL vet Blackburn actually KO'd IFL welterweight champ Jay Hieron (14-4) prior to his last fight which ended in a no contest. Ray Perales scored a decision win over Blackburn in their previous fight in 2005. Since that win, Perales has gone (2-6).
Undercard:
Steve Berger (18-17) v. Eddy Ellis (13-14)
Andrew Peterson (1-0) v. Mychal Clark (4-3)
Nathan Coy (2-0) v. Chris Davis (?)
Zach Skinner (2-2) v. Scott Shaffer (?)
Bob Sapp highlight
Thursday, February 14, 2008
WEC 32 - Must Watch TV
For those who missed the WEC 32 card, check it out at Ultimate MMA videos (MMA Friends on right side) or wait for Versus to replay it 6-10 times over the next couple months. It was a solid card from top to bottom with vicious KO's and submissions throughout the night. Two belts changed hands and one stayed put.
WW Champ Carlos Condit vs. Carlo Prater - Condit (22-4) and Prater didn't stay on their feet for long as Prater almost immediately used a lateral/hip toss to get Condit on his back. Prater was unable to do much damage from the top, and Condit worked for submissions. After a failed guilotine from full guard and arm bar attempts, Condit was able to secure a tight guilotine forcing the stoppage in the first round. Condit now has four straight wins in the WEC and avenged his first loss.
Winner- Condit - (Guillotine Choke) R1 3:48
LW Champ Rob McCullough vs. Jamie Varner - Razor Rob just did not look on his game and Varner was full of energy. The first round saw Varner trying continously for the takedown and Razor defending well. But he wasn't putting much punishment on Varner for his failed attempts. In the third round Varner switched his strategy and started to box with Razor. After Razor landed a couple big shots knocking out Varner's mouthpiece, he didn't finish Varner off. Ref Steve Mazagoti gave time to Varner to put the mouthpiece back in and Varner came out firing and got the TKO over Razor in the third round. New LW Champ- Jamie Varner (14-2, 3 straight stoppage victories).
Winner- Varner- TKO (Punches) R3 2:54
BW Champ Chase Beebe vs. Miguel Torres- Both fighters fired off kicks before the fight went to the ground. After Torres landed a couple elbows from the bottom, Beebe absorbed a vicious upkick while trying to back off. When the fight went to the ground again, Torres, sporting a sweet mullet, was able to go from shoulder lock, to omaplata, to anaconda choke, to a modified guilotine/reverse rear naked choke. The sequence was awesome. It was pretty sweet, and Torres seems like the real deal. New BW champ- Miguel Torres (21-1), 14 straight victories, 2 in the WEC.
Winner- Torres- (Modified Guillotine Choke) R1 3:59
Leonard Garcia vs. Hiroyuki Takaya- Leonard Garcia (11-3) seemed a little too small for the UFC's 155 weight class, and at 145 he looked fast and powerful. He fired bombs at Takaya, and eventually connected dropping Takaya to the mat and followed up with another head shot.
Winner- Garcia- TKO (Punch) R1 1:31
Antonio Banuelos vs. Manny Tapia- Tapia wins via split decision. It was originally called a split draw, but there was a scoring mistake. Not much to talk about in this one.
Winner- Tapia- Decision (Split)
Under Card
Mark Hominick vs. Josh Grispi- W- Grispi- (Rear-Naked Choke) R1 2:55
Del Hawkins vs. Coty Wheeler- W- Wheeler- (Flying Armbar) R2 1:57
Yoshiro Maeda vs. Charlie Valencia- W- Maeda- KO (Body Kick) R1 2:29
Chance Farrar vs. Micah Miller- W- Miller- KO (Punch) R1 1:39
Scott Jorgensen vs. Damacio Page- W- Page- Dec. (Unanimous) R3 5:00
*Looking at the undercard, they better put the two KO's and the two submission victories on an upcoming Wrecage show.
**I can't believe the crowd actually boo'd during the Razor v. Varner match. It was an exciting fight! There were only two decisions on the entire card, which was one of the WEC's best. True MMA fans do not boo!
WW Champ Carlos Condit vs. Carlo Prater - Condit (22-4) and Prater didn't stay on their feet for long as Prater almost immediately used a lateral/hip toss to get Condit on his back. Prater was unable to do much damage from the top, and Condit worked for submissions. After a failed guilotine from full guard and arm bar attempts, Condit was able to secure a tight guilotine forcing the stoppage in the first round. Condit now has four straight wins in the WEC and avenged his first loss.
Winner- Condit - (Guillotine Choke) R1 3:48
LW Champ Rob McCullough vs. Jamie Varner - Razor Rob just did not look on his game and Varner was full of energy. The first round saw Varner trying continously for the takedown and Razor defending well. But he wasn't putting much punishment on Varner for his failed attempts. In the third round Varner switched his strategy and started to box with Razor. After Razor landed a couple big shots knocking out Varner's mouthpiece, he didn't finish Varner off. Ref Steve Mazagoti gave time to Varner to put the mouthpiece back in and Varner came out firing and got the TKO over Razor in the third round. New LW Champ- Jamie Varner (14-2, 3 straight stoppage victories).
Winner- Varner- TKO (Punches) R3 2:54
BW Champ Chase Beebe vs. Miguel Torres- Both fighters fired off kicks before the fight went to the ground. After Torres landed a couple elbows from the bottom, Beebe absorbed a vicious upkick while trying to back off. When the fight went to the ground again, Torres, sporting a sweet mullet, was able to go from shoulder lock, to omaplata, to anaconda choke, to a modified guilotine/reverse rear naked choke. The sequence was awesome. It was pretty sweet, and Torres seems like the real deal. New BW champ- Miguel Torres (21-1), 14 straight victories, 2 in the WEC.
Winner- Torres- (Modified Guillotine Choke) R1 3:59
Leonard Garcia vs. Hiroyuki Takaya- Leonard Garcia (11-3) seemed a little too small for the UFC's 155 weight class, and at 145 he looked fast and powerful. He fired bombs at Takaya, and eventually connected dropping Takaya to the mat and followed up with another head shot.
Winner- Garcia- TKO (Punch) R1 1:31
Antonio Banuelos vs. Manny Tapia- Tapia wins via split decision. It was originally called a split draw, but there was a scoring mistake. Not much to talk about in this one.
Winner- Tapia- Decision (Split)
Under Card
Mark Hominick vs. Josh Grispi- W- Grispi- (Rear-Naked Choke) R1 2:55
Del Hawkins vs. Coty Wheeler- W- Wheeler- (Flying Armbar) R2 1:57
Yoshiro Maeda vs. Charlie Valencia- W- Maeda- KO (Body Kick) R1 2:29
Chance Farrar vs. Micah Miller- W- Miller- KO (Punch) R1 1:39
Scott Jorgensen vs. Damacio Page- W- Page- Dec. (Unanimous) R3 5:00
*Looking at the undercard, they better put the two KO's and the two submission victories on an upcoming Wrecage show.
**I can't believe the crowd actually boo'd during the Razor v. Varner match. It was an exciting fight! There were only two decisions on the entire card, which was one of the WEC's best. True MMA fans do not boo!
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
WEC 32 Tonight - Three Title Fights
The WEC (Zuffa owned) is starting to get extremely packed with talent in the lower weight classes. The increase of talent probably is a sign that the UFC needs to get a featherweight and bantam weight class. Also, like I have always said, the UFC and WEC needs to show more fights on their broadcasts. How many movie review trailers can they cram into two or three hours?
Main Card
WW Champ Carlos Condit vs. Carlo Prater - Condit came in weighing 167 and is riding a 6 fight win streak, including 3 in the WEC. Prater beat Condit in 2004, and is on his own 3 fight win streak.
LW Champ Rob McCullough vs. Jamie Varner - Razor Rob has been impressive in his two WEC fights crushing Kit Cope and Richard Crunkilton. Razor is riding a 9 fight win streak. Varner has two wins in a row since his loss in the UFC to Hermes Franca.
BW Champ Chase Beebe vs. Miguel Torres - Beebe has six wins in a row, with his last 2 coming in the WEC. Those wins were by unanimous decision. Torres has 12 wins in a row, all but one by a stoppage.
Antonio Banuelos vs. Manny Tapia
Leonard Garcia vs. Hiroyuki Takaya
Under Card
Mark Hominick vs. Josh Grispi
Del Hawkins vs. Coty Wheeler
Yoshiro Maeda vs. Charlie Valencia
Chance Farrar vs. Micah Miller
Scott Jorgensen vs. Damacio Page
Main Card
WW Champ Carlos Condit vs. Carlo Prater - Condit came in weighing 167 and is riding a 6 fight win streak, including 3 in the WEC. Prater beat Condit in 2004, and is on his own 3 fight win streak.
LW Champ Rob McCullough vs. Jamie Varner - Razor Rob has been impressive in his two WEC fights crushing Kit Cope and Richard Crunkilton. Razor is riding a 9 fight win streak. Varner has two wins in a row since his loss in the UFC to Hermes Franca.
BW Champ Chase Beebe vs. Miguel Torres - Beebe has six wins in a row, with his last 2 coming in the WEC. Those wins were by unanimous decision. Torres has 12 wins in a row, all but one by a stoppage.
Antonio Banuelos vs. Manny Tapia
Leonard Garcia vs. Hiroyuki Takaya
Under Card
Mark Hominick vs. Josh Grispi
Del Hawkins vs. Coty Wheeler
Yoshiro Maeda vs. Charlie Valencia
Chance Farrar vs. Micah Miller
Scott Jorgensen vs. Damacio Page
Video of the Day - Flip to pass
Apparently this is John Weidler doing this "original" mma move. Sherdog has him listed as Jon Weidler (3-3), and his last fight was a 2003 KO loss to UFC fighter Rich Clementi (30-12).
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
UFC 82 Preview
*All fighters have made weight and are primed and ready to go.
MAIN CARD
MW Champ Anderson Silva (20-4)(5-0 UFC) vs. Pride MW Champ Dan Henderson (22-6, 2-1 UFC)- This match is for the UFC MW Title- Anderson is on an impressive 5-0 streak to start his career in the UFC. He has looked unbeatable in his dismantling of Nate Marquardt, 2X of Rich Franklin, Chris Leben and Travis Lutter in the UFC. The only real blemish was giving up some takedowns to Travis Lutter.
While Dan Henderson lost a unanimous decision to Rampage Jackson in his last UFC bout, many fans seem to forget just how great of a career Henderson brings to the table.
He started his career 9-0 winning three tournaments including UFC 17, Brazil Open 97, and the five match, two night, Rings - King of Kings 99. During that stretch, Dan defeated Carlos Newton, Allen Goes, Gilbert Yvel, Renato Sobral and UFC HW Champ Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira. His other notable victories are over Renzo Gracie, Ninja Rua, Vitor Belfort, Wanderlei Silva, Yuki Kondo, Murilo Bustamante, Akihiro Gono and Kazuo Misaki.
**My pick - Silva via TKO Rd. 3
Heath Herring (27-13, 1-2 UFC) vs. Cheick Kongo (11-3, 3-1 UFC)- These two heavyweight strikers will be throwing some serious leather. Counter punching could get a little boring. If Kongo can win he will get close to getting a shot at the title.
**My pick - Kongo via KO Rd. 2
*Old Kongo HL
Chris Leben (17-4, 7-3 UFC) vs. Alessio Sakara (12-6, 3-3 UFC)- Both will stand and bang and this will more than likely be an exciting affair. I'm hoping for a quick KO so we can see an extra fight from the stacked undercard.
**My pick - Leben TKO Rd. 1
Yushin Okami (20-4, 5-1 UFC) vs. Evan Tanner (34-6, 11-4 UFC)- After two losses in a row in 2005, Tanner fought once in 2006 winning by triangle choke versus Justin Levens at UFC 59. He hasn't fought since. Each of Okami's UFC fights have reached the third round, where Okami usually turns on the heat. Okami's only loss in the UFC was to former title holder Rich Franklin.
**My pick - Okami via decision
Jon Fitch (15-2, 7-0 UFC) vs. Chris Wilson (13-3, 0-0 UFC)- Chris Wilson is a veteren of the IFL and has wins over their WW Champ Jay Hieron and the exciting Rory Markum. Fitch has 14 victories in a row, and has looked excellent in his grappling and his submission game.
**My pick - Fitch via submission Rd. 2
UNDERCARD
Former HW Champ Andrei Arlovski (11-5, 9-4 UFC) vs. Jake O’Brien (10-0, 3-0 UFC)- This is Arlovski's last fight on his contract. Arlovski will be looking to KO or submit O'Brien who hasn't fought since his upset of Heath Herring which was a year ago. I expect to see O'Brien attempt a takedown early and to absorb some punishment.
**My pick - Arlovski via kneebar Rd. 1
Dustin Hazelett (10-3, 3-1 UFC) vs. Josh Koscheck (9-2, 7-2 UFC)- Hazelett has three straight wins in the UFC. Kos will be looking to take Hazelett down and ground and pound a victory.
**My pick - Hazelett via armbar Rd. 3
David Bielkheden (12-5, 0-0 UFC) vs. Diego Sanchez (17-2, 5-2 UFC)-Diego is looking to rebound from two decision losses to Jon Fitch and Josh Koscheck.
*Diego in KOTC according to photobucket
**My pick - Sanchez via TKO Rd. 2
Luke Cummo (6-4, 3-2 UFC) vs. Luigi Fioravanti (11-3, 2-3 UFC)- Cummo and Fioravanti are both looking to take steps up the 170 pound latter.
**My pick - Cummo via armbar Rd. 2
Jorge Gurgel (11-3, 2-2 UFC)vs. John Halverson (16-5, 0-1 UFC)-Halverson's only loss in the UFC was to young star Roger Huerta. Gurgel will look for a submission, while Halverson will more than likely look for a KO.
**My pick - Halverson via KO rd. 3
MAIN CARD
MW Champ Anderson Silva (20-4)(5-0 UFC) vs. Pride MW Champ Dan Henderson (22-6, 2-1 UFC)- This match is for the UFC MW Title- Anderson is on an impressive 5-0 streak to start his career in the UFC. He has looked unbeatable in his dismantling of Nate Marquardt, 2X of Rich Franklin, Chris Leben and Travis Lutter in the UFC. The only real blemish was giving up some takedowns to Travis Lutter.
While Dan Henderson lost a unanimous decision to Rampage Jackson in his last UFC bout, many fans seem to forget just how great of a career Henderson brings to the table.
He started his career 9-0 winning three tournaments including UFC 17, Brazil Open 97, and the five match, two night, Rings - King of Kings 99. During that stretch, Dan defeated Carlos Newton, Allen Goes, Gilbert Yvel, Renato Sobral and UFC HW Champ Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira. His other notable victories are over Renzo Gracie, Ninja Rua, Vitor Belfort, Wanderlei Silva, Yuki Kondo, Murilo Bustamante, Akihiro Gono and Kazuo Misaki.
**My pick - Silva via TKO Rd. 3
Heath Herring (27-13, 1-2 UFC) vs. Cheick Kongo (11-3, 3-1 UFC)- These two heavyweight strikers will be throwing some serious leather. Counter punching could get a little boring. If Kongo can win he will get close to getting a shot at the title.
**My pick - Kongo via KO Rd. 2
*Old Kongo HL
Chris Leben (17-4, 7-3 UFC) vs. Alessio Sakara (12-6, 3-3 UFC)- Both will stand and bang and this will more than likely be an exciting affair. I'm hoping for a quick KO so we can see an extra fight from the stacked undercard.
**My pick - Leben TKO Rd. 1
Yushin Okami (20-4, 5-1 UFC) vs. Evan Tanner (34-6, 11-4 UFC)- After two losses in a row in 2005, Tanner fought once in 2006 winning by triangle choke versus Justin Levens at UFC 59. He hasn't fought since. Each of Okami's UFC fights have reached the third round, where Okami usually turns on the heat. Okami's only loss in the UFC was to former title holder Rich Franklin.
**My pick - Okami via decision
Jon Fitch (15-2, 7-0 UFC) vs. Chris Wilson (13-3, 0-0 UFC)- Chris Wilson is a veteren of the IFL and has wins over their WW Champ Jay Hieron and the exciting Rory Markum. Fitch has 14 victories in a row, and has looked excellent in his grappling and his submission game.
**My pick - Fitch via submission Rd. 2
UNDERCARD
Former HW Champ Andrei Arlovski (11-5, 9-4 UFC) vs. Jake O’Brien (10-0, 3-0 UFC)- This is Arlovski's last fight on his contract. Arlovski will be looking to KO or submit O'Brien who hasn't fought since his upset of Heath Herring which was a year ago. I expect to see O'Brien attempt a takedown early and to absorb some punishment.
**My pick - Arlovski via kneebar Rd. 1
Dustin Hazelett (10-3, 3-1 UFC) vs. Josh Koscheck (9-2, 7-2 UFC)- Hazelett has three straight wins in the UFC. Kos will be looking to take Hazelett down and ground and pound a victory.
**My pick - Hazelett via armbar Rd. 3
David Bielkheden (12-5, 0-0 UFC) vs. Diego Sanchez (17-2, 5-2 UFC)-Diego is looking to rebound from two decision losses to Jon Fitch and Josh Koscheck.
*Diego in KOTC according to photobucket
**My pick - Sanchez via TKO Rd. 2
Luke Cummo (6-4, 3-2 UFC) vs. Luigi Fioravanti (11-3, 2-3 UFC)- Cummo and Fioravanti are both looking to take steps up the 170 pound latter.
**My pick - Cummo via armbar Rd. 2
Jorge Gurgel (11-3, 2-2 UFC)vs. John Halverson (16-5, 0-1 UFC)-Halverson's only loss in the UFC was to young star Roger Huerta. Gurgel will look for a submission, while Halverson will more than likely look for a KO.
**My pick - Halverson via KO rd. 3
Video of the Day - How to Make an Entrance
Here is a video of how the master of the entrance, Genki Sudo, did his thing.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Video of the Day - Beauparlant vs. Radach
Here is Brent Beauparlant vs. Benji Radach in the IFL World Grand Prix first round which took place on 11/3/07. Radach recently won of Ninja Rua in Elite XC.
World Victory Road's March 5 Card
Many of us are waiting for the next incantation of Pride, and World Victory Road may be it. Their debut is a March 5th fight card being held in the National Yoyogi Stadium in Tokoyo, Japan. In addition to announced bouts, Pride LW champ Takanori Gomi is supposed to fight on the card. (Yes, the Nick Diaz fight counts as a LOSS in MMA Blaster's world). Also, Cyborg Santos (15-11) is rumored to be on the card.
Fight Card so far:
Tanakori Gomi (27-4) vs. Duane Ludwig (16-7)
Kazou Misaki (18-8) v. Siyar Bahadurzada (13-1)
Josh Barnett (20-5) v. Hidehiko Yoshida (7-5)
Phil Baroni (10-8) v. Sanea Kikuta (26-6)
NYBA promo pic
Fight Card so far:
Tanakori Gomi (27-4) vs. Duane Ludwig (16-7)
Kazou Misaki (18-8) v. Siyar Bahadurzada (13-1)
Josh Barnett (20-5) v. Hidehiko Yoshida (7-5)
Phil Baroni (10-8) v. Sanea Kikuta (26-6)
NYBA promo pic
Sunday, February 10, 2008
EliteXC "Street Certified" Card Announced
Elite XC Review - This fight card will take place on February 16, at the Bank United Center in Miami, Florida.
Tank Abbott (9-13) vs. Kimbo Slice (1-0)- Look for this fight to be over by the three minute mark with one of these two seeing stars. Kimbo has been training for this fight with MMA legend Bas Rutten. Kimbo looked imposing in his win over an intimidatd Bo Cantrell.
Tank will not be scared and come out guns blazing like he always does, swinging for the fences. Tank was actually winning in his last bout against Gary Turner (4-0) landing punches and getting a takedown. But, when they got on their feet at the 2 minute mark Tank was completely gassed and basically gave up.
*Prediction- Kimbo via KO R1.
Ricco Rodriguez (27-7) vs. Antonio Silva (9-1)- This fight should be the main event, but Tank and Kimbo have more reckognizable names than these two. Antonio Silva is an absolute massive opponent who has beaten down his two opponents in Elite XC. Former UFC Heavyweight Champ Rodriguez is looking for his second victory in a row since his loss to Ben Rothwell (29-5).
*Prediction Antonio Silva via TKO R3
Kyle Noke (14-3-1) vs. Scott Smith (12-5)- The Aussie Kyle Noke is looking for his second straight victory in Elite XC. Former UFC competetior and TUF 4 contestant Scott Smith is looking for his second win in a row. Smith will stand and trade, while Noke will probably look to take the fight to the ground.
*Prediction Kyle Noke via submission R2
Yves Edwards (32-13-1) vs. Edson Berto (13-4-1)- The creator of Thugjitsu Yves Edwards is looking for his third win in a row and second at Elite XC. Yves has the experience edge and a better resume, but anything can happen. Berto is also looking for his second victory in a row. In Berto's previous Elite XC bout he lost to 160 pound champ KJ Noons.
*Prediction Yves Edwards via KO R2
Brett Rogers (5-0) vs. James Thompson (14-7)- Rogers is looking to keep his undefeated streak alive against Englishman James "Colossus" Thompson. Rodgers sported a mohawk in his previous Elite XC win over Ralph Kelly (3-4) and is largely untested. Thompson will come in with more fights in bigger venues. This will be a slugfest.
*Prediction Thompson via KO R1
PRELIMINARY CARD
Dave "Pee Wee" Herman (9-0) vs. Mario Rinaldi (6-2)- Pee Wee is an interesting heavyweight prospect with 9 straight stoppages. He is 6'5" and 250 pounds, we will see how he does as this is his first fight on a big stage.
Rafael Feijao (4-1) vs. John Doyle (6-2)
Jon Kirk (10-2) vs. Yosmany Cabezas (4-0)
Eric Bradley (2-1) vs. Mikey Gomez (6-3)
Mike Berhard (3-0) vs. Lorenzo Borgameo (2-0)
*Gif of Edwards KO high kick of Josh Thomson at UFC 49.
Tank Abbott (9-13) vs. Kimbo Slice (1-0)- Look for this fight to be over by the three minute mark with one of these two seeing stars. Kimbo has been training for this fight with MMA legend Bas Rutten. Kimbo looked imposing in his win over an intimidatd Bo Cantrell.
Tank will not be scared and come out guns blazing like he always does, swinging for the fences. Tank was actually winning in his last bout against Gary Turner (4-0) landing punches and getting a takedown. But, when they got on their feet at the 2 minute mark Tank was completely gassed and basically gave up.
*Prediction- Kimbo via KO R1.
Ricco Rodriguez (27-7) vs. Antonio Silva (9-1)- This fight should be the main event, but Tank and Kimbo have more reckognizable names than these two. Antonio Silva is an absolute massive opponent who has beaten down his two opponents in Elite XC. Former UFC Heavyweight Champ Rodriguez is looking for his second victory in a row since his loss to Ben Rothwell (29-5).
*Prediction Antonio Silva via TKO R3
Kyle Noke (14-3-1) vs. Scott Smith (12-5)- The Aussie Kyle Noke is looking for his second straight victory in Elite XC. Former UFC competetior and TUF 4 contestant Scott Smith is looking for his second win in a row. Smith will stand and trade, while Noke will probably look to take the fight to the ground.
*Prediction Kyle Noke via submission R2
Yves Edwards (32-13-1) vs. Edson Berto (13-4-1)- The creator of Thugjitsu Yves Edwards is looking for his third win in a row and second at Elite XC. Yves has the experience edge and a better resume, but anything can happen. Berto is also looking for his second victory in a row. In Berto's previous Elite XC bout he lost to 160 pound champ KJ Noons.
*Prediction Yves Edwards via KO R2
Brett Rogers (5-0) vs. James Thompson (14-7)- Rogers is looking to keep his undefeated streak alive against Englishman James "Colossus" Thompson. Rodgers sported a mohawk in his previous Elite XC win over Ralph Kelly (3-4) and is largely untested. Thompson will come in with more fights in bigger venues. This will be a slugfest.
*Prediction Thompson via KO R1
PRELIMINARY CARD
Dave "Pee Wee" Herman (9-0) vs. Mario Rinaldi (6-2)- Pee Wee is an interesting heavyweight prospect with 9 straight stoppages. He is 6'5" and 250 pounds, we will see how he does as this is his first fight on a big stage.
Rafael Feijao (4-1) vs. John Doyle (6-2)
Jon Kirk (10-2) vs. Yosmany Cabezas (4-0)
Eric Bradley (2-1) vs. Mikey Gomez (6-3)
Mike Berhard (3-0) vs. Lorenzo Borgameo (2-0)
*Gif of Edwards KO high kick of Josh Thomson at UFC 49.
Monday, February 4, 2008
UFC 81 Results and Recap
UFC 81 will go down as one of the most entertaining events the promotion has ever put on. Most fights ended quickly with three guillotine chokes in the main card. The audience was star studded, with the Undertaker, Stone Cold, Ken Griffey Jr., Rampage and various others and they got their money's worth. Just like the old UFC's ju-jitsu dominated over brute force.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira def. Tim Sylvia via submission (guillotine choke) — R3, 1:28 - UFC HW Championship belongs to Nogeueira and he earned it. Nogueira took punishment from Sylvia for two and a half rounds as Sylvia hit him with everything in his aresenal. But it only took one mistake for Nogeria to sweep Sylvia and choke him out. Reminiscant of the Bob Sapp and Cro Cop fights, the legend of Nogueira continues.
*Both fighters won fight of the night bonuses.
(Poll results Nogueria 29-20, MMA Blaster readers correct)
Frank Mir def. Brock Lesnar via submission (knee bar) — R1, 1:30 - Lesnar came out in a fury taking down Mir immediately before starting to rain down hammerfists on Mirs face. Mir turned, and Lesnar inadvertantly struck the back of Mir's head. Lesanr was deducted a point, and the match resumed.
Off the bat on the restart, Lesnar threw a jab that knocked Mir to the canvas. After a couple punches in half guard, Lesnar looked out of place and a leg was open for Mir to get a knee bar. It was inexperience at its finest, and Lesnar didn't know what to do, tapping.
Lesnar's performance indicates that he has raw tools. He is big, he is powerful, he is agile. But, he is inexperienced. Mir had absolutely no answer for Lesnar's two takedown attempts. The punches that were thrown looked powerful and did damage. Maybe the point deduction distracted Lesnar slightly, but it did not have any real impact on the fight. You would think Lesnar or someone in his camp would have bothered looking at the toe hold Mir put on Tank Abbott and thinking a leg lock would be probable.
*Mir wins submission of the night.
(Poll Lesnar 59-37, MMA Blaster readers incorrect)
Nate Marquardt def. Jeremy Horn via submission (guillotine choke) — R2, 1:37 - Marquardt punished Horn for virtually the entire first round. Horn eventually worked in an omaplata shoulder lock to a sweep near the end of the round. The second round was more of the same as Horn fell into the guillotine after taking alot of punishment. Marquardt was sound on his feet working his punches and combos.
Ricardo Almeida def. Rob Yundt via submission (guillotine choke) — R1, 1:08 - Almeida overwelmed the inexperienced Yundt before getting the choke. Yundt attempted to slam himself out, but was unsuccesful.
Tyson Griffin def. Gleison Tibau via unanimous decision - Griffin probably had the edge standing, but Tibau was able to get some takedowns.
Chris Lytle def. Kyle Bradley via KO (strikes) — R1, 0:33 - Lytle came out swinging, and tagged Bradley sending him to the canvas where he absorbed another punch before the ref stepped in. A dazed Bradley pulled the ref into his guard before realizing what was going on.
*KO of the night.
Tim Boetsch def. David Heath via TKO (strikes) — R1, 4:52 - IFL vet Boetsch worked his front kick and unorthodox body punches. After getting the thai clinch, Boetch worked devastating knee strikes. To finish it off, Boetsch hip tossed Heath to the canvas and finished Heath off.
Marvin Eastman def. Terry Martin via unanimous decision
Rob Emerson def. Keita Nakamura via split decision
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira def. Tim Sylvia via submission (guillotine choke) — R3, 1:28 - UFC HW Championship belongs to Nogeueira and he earned it. Nogueira took punishment from Sylvia for two and a half rounds as Sylvia hit him with everything in his aresenal. But it only took one mistake for Nogeria to sweep Sylvia and choke him out. Reminiscant of the Bob Sapp and Cro Cop fights, the legend of Nogueira continues.
*Both fighters won fight of the night bonuses.
(Poll results Nogueria 29-20, MMA Blaster readers correct)
Frank Mir def. Brock Lesnar via submission (knee bar) — R1, 1:30 - Lesnar came out in a fury taking down Mir immediately before starting to rain down hammerfists on Mirs face. Mir turned, and Lesnar inadvertantly struck the back of Mir's head. Lesanr was deducted a point, and the match resumed.
Off the bat on the restart, Lesnar threw a jab that knocked Mir to the canvas. After a couple punches in half guard, Lesnar looked out of place and a leg was open for Mir to get a knee bar. It was inexperience at its finest, and Lesnar didn't know what to do, tapping.
Lesnar's performance indicates that he has raw tools. He is big, he is powerful, he is agile. But, he is inexperienced. Mir had absolutely no answer for Lesnar's two takedown attempts. The punches that were thrown looked powerful and did damage. Maybe the point deduction distracted Lesnar slightly, but it did not have any real impact on the fight. You would think Lesnar or someone in his camp would have bothered looking at the toe hold Mir put on Tank Abbott and thinking a leg lock would be probable.
*Mir wins submission of the night.
(Poll Lesnar 59-37, MMA Blaster readers incorrect)
Nate Marquardt def. Jeremy Horn via submission (guillotine choke) — R2, 1:37 - Marquardt punished Horn for virtually the entire first round. Horn eventually worked in an omaplata shoulder lock to a sweep near the end of the round. The second round was more of the same as Horn fell into the guillotine after taking alot of punishment. Marquardt was sound on his feet working his punches and combos.
Ricardo Almeida def. Rob Yundt via submission (guillotine choke) — R1, 1:08 - Almeida overwelmed the inexperienced Yundt before getting the choke. Yundt attempted to slam himself out, but was unsuccesful.
Tyson Griffin def. Gleison Tibau via unanimous decision - Griffin probably had the edge standing, but Tibau was able to get some takedowns.
Chris Lytle def. Kyle Bradley via KO (strikes) — R1, 0:33 - Lytle came out swinging, and tagged Bradley sending him to the canvas where he absorbed another punch before the ref stepped in. A dazed Bradley pulled the ref into his guard before realizing what was going on.
*KO of the night.
Tim Boetsch def. David Heath via TKO (strikes) — R1, 4:52 - IFL vet Boetsch worked his front kick and unorthodox body punches. After getting the thai clinch, Boetch worked devastating knee strikes. To finish it off, Boetsch hip tossed Heath to the canvas and finished Heath off.
Marvin Eastman def. Terry Martin via unanimous decision
Rob Emerson def. Keita Nakamura via split decision
T.J. O'Brien and Jeese Lund Victorious
Both T.J. O'Brien and Jesse Lund dominated in their performances in Title Fight Championships "Awakening" event on 1/26/08. T.J. used a high kick to knock his opponent to the floor before applying a rear naked choke just 57 seconds into the bout. Jesse won by a keylock submission at 1:40 in the first round.
T.J. O'Brien
Jesse Lund
Full TFC Results (Note: TFC and MCC are merged)
1) Steve Young (146) vs Damian Ware (145)
Young won by verbal submission due to an arm lock at 1:48 in RD 1
2) Mark Gearhart (188) vs Tim Ross (185)
Ross won with a guillotine in RD 2
3) Jesse Lund (204) vs Bryant Reynolds (205)
Lund won with a Kimura at 1:40 in RD 1
4) Ronnie Britt (166) vs Shane Mosby (167)
Britt won with a modified shoulder choke at 3:33 in RD 1
5) Josh Christiansen (204) vs Kris Mason (205)
Christiansen won by tapout due to strikes at 1:16 in RD 1
6) Josh Atwell (144) vs Eric Howser (143)
Atwell won with a RNC at 1:37 in RD 2
7) Cole Jennet vs Jason Purcell (168)
Jennet won with a Keylock at 1:47 in RD 1
8) Jeff Carstens (159) vs TJ O'Brien (155)
O'Brien won with a RNC at 57 seconds in RD 1.
9) Mike Van Meer vs Brian Green (184)
Green won by tapout due to armbar RD 2
Brian Green Wins Middleweight Championship
T.J. O'Brien
Jesse Lund
Full TFC Results (Note: TFC and MCC are merged)
1) Steve Young (146) vs Damian Ware (145)
Young won by verbal submission due to an arm lock at 1:48 in RD 1
2) Mark Gearhart (188) vs Tim Ross (185)
Ross won with a guillotine in RD 2
3) Jesse Lund (204) vs Bryant Reynolds (205)
Lund won with a Kimura at 1:40 in RD 1
4) Ronnie Britt (166) vs Shane Mosby (167)
Britt won with a modified shoulder choke at 3:33 in RD 1
5) Josh Christiansen (204) vs Kris Mason (205)
Christiansen won by tapout due to strikes at 1:16 in RD 1
6) Josh Atwell (144) vs Eric Howser (143)
Atwell won with a RNC at 1:37 in RD 2
7) Cole Jennet vs Jason Purcell (168)
Jennet won with a Keylock at 1:47 in RD 1
8) Jeff Carstens (159) vs TJ O'Brien (155)
O'Brien won with a RNC at 57 seconds in RD 1.
9) Mike Van Meer vs Brian Green (184)
Green won by tapout due to armbar RD 2
Brian Green Wins Middleweight Championship
Friday, February 1, 2008
Frank Shamrock v. Cung Le Set For March 29th
It appears that the MMA Legend Frank Shamrock (23-8) will face the exciting Cung Le (5-0) for the Strikeforce World Middleweight Title. The mixed martial arts bout is set for March 29th in San Jose, California. This card looks to be very good, check out the other bouts.
Jake Shields (20-4)(#7 WW) v. Drew Fickett (31-5)- WW Title- Fickett (4-2 UFC) will be a tough test for Shields. If Shields wins, I wouldn't be surprised if he moved up to 185 to take on the winner of Shamrock v. Le.
**Joe Riggs (27-9) v. Joey Villasenor (24-6)- Riggs was on the receiving end of a massive hip toss applied by Cory Devela at last weekends Strikeforce event and there is no way he will be competing. Riggs ended up in the hospital and I hope he is doing ok. It will be interesting to see who they get as a replacement. Why not Jorge Santiago?
Also rumored to be fighting on the card are Jorge Santiago (16-7) (Strikeforce MW tourney champ), Gina Carano (5-0) and Paul Buentello (23-10).
Gilbert Melendez (13-1) was initially rumored to be on the card, then removed. There have been some rumblings that Buentello will take on Kimbo Slice (2-0). If so, it would be Kimbo's biggest test to date and he would have just over a month to prepare. We would learn how Kimbo defends kicks if that match were a go.
*Jake Shields throwing a kick against Yushin Okami in the Rumble on the Rock Tournament that took place 4/21/06. After beating Okami, Shields won a decision against WEC WW champ Carlos Condit. Shields is currently on a 9 fight win streak.
Vid of the Day - Bob Sapp
The commercials for this years Super Bowl sucked. The Shaq riding a horse and the Will Ferrell/Semi Pro/Bud Light commercials were ok, but nothing to write home about. This commercial by MMA star Bob Sapp trumps all.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)