Andre Galvao is the talk of the Abu Dhabi Combat Club Submission Wrestling 2011 tournament, winning the absolute and under 88KG divisions. Braulio Estima, 2009's big winner, defeated Jacare in the superfight on points, 3-0. Mario Sperry also won a superfight against Renzo Gracie, 5-0.
Galvao, a BJJ blackbelt under Fernando "Tererê" Augusto, now runs his own school. As you can see below, Brazilian fighters dominated the field, with the exception of Dean Lister taking the under 99KG division.
To win the absolute finale, Galvao defeated Shinsho Anzai, Sergio Moraes, Murilo Santana and Pablo Popovitch via toehold for the championship. In the 88KG division, he defeated Don Ortega, Gunnar Nelson, Pablo Popovitch and Rousimar Palhares. Galvao (6-2 MMA) indicated he may return to the MMA arena, though he enjoys running his school. Galvao's biggest MMA wins have come over John Alessio, Jorge Patino and Jeremiah Metcalf.
You'll notice plenty of high level MMA fighters including Vinny Magalhaes of TUF 8 winning the over 99KG division over Fabricio Werdum on points. 2009's over 99KG winner, this years 2nd place winner, Strikeforce/UFC veteran Fabricio Werdum. Current UFC fighter Rousimar Palhares took 2nd in the under 88KG division, securing three heel hooks to make the final, eventually losing on points to Andre Galvao.
Absolute - Open Weight
1st - Andre Galvao - Brazil
2nd - Pablo Popovitch - Brazil
3rd - Xande Ribeiro - Brazil
Over 99KG - 218 pounds
1st - Vinny Magalhaes - Brazil
2nd - Fabricio Werdum - Brazil
3rd - Roberto Abreu - Brazil
Under 99KG - under 218 pounds
1st - Dean Lister - USA
2nd - Joao Assis - Brazil
3rd - Xande Ribeiro - Brazil
Under 88KG - 194 pounds
1st - Andre Galvao - Brazil
2nd - Rousimar Palhares - Brazil
3rd - Pablo Popovitch - Brazil
Under 77KG - 169 pounds
1st - Marcelo Garcia - Brazil
2nd - Leo Viera - Brazil
3rd - Kron Gracie - Brazil
Under 66KG - 145 pounds
1st - Rafael Mendes - Brazil
2nd - Rubens Charles - Brazil
3rd - Jeff Glover - USA
Women's Over 60KG - 132 pounds
1st - Gabi Garcia - Brazil
2nd - Hanette Staack - Brazil
3rd - Ida Hansson - Sweden
Women's Under 60KG - 132 pounds
1st - Kyra Gracie - Brazil
2nd - Michele Nicolini - Brazil
3rd - Luana Alzugir - Brazil
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Bobonis Notches Biggest MMA Victory
This past Saturday, Shah Bobonis won the biggest fight of his career, defeating American Top Team's Marcos da Matta at Bellator 50 via 3rd round KO. With momentum on his side, Bobonis has now won four MMA bouts in a row.
Da Matta is a serious talent in the BJJ game, winning a World Championship in 1996 in the purple belt division, a Brazilian National Championship in 2000, and silvers at the 1999 Pan-Am Games and 2000 Worlds.
Bobonis has been a friend of mine since I did a story on him in preparation for a bout back in 2008. I was recently able to catch up Shah and ask a few questions about his recent performance.
MMA Blaster: What did you know about Marcos da Matta and his BJJ credentials going into the fight?
Bobonis: Going into the fight I knew that he was the best BJJ player at 135 pounds in the Florida MMA scene. I didn't want to look him up before the fight because I didn't want to over think it. After the fight I looked him up, and he has more BJJ titles than I have MMA fights.
MMA Blaster: What was the game plan for the fight?
Bobonis: Master Marcos Avellan of FFA and I put together a game plan that seemed to pan out exactly the way we thought it would. We wanted to pot shot him with clean shots and keep distance. We wanted him to work hard for every take down and for me to keep getting up after being taken down. Then, when he started to tire from all the take down attempts, get more aggressive with the stand-up.
MMA Blaster: How did the fight play out? Did he have you any trouble with his submission attempts? What did you hit him with for the KO?
Bobonis: The fight played out according to the game plan. I hurt him, then dropped him with a few right hands in the first round. Almost took his leg off with a low kick, and made him work hard for every take down.
I was caught in a tight arm bar early in the fight that popped my arm a bit. Also, my back was taken twice, but besides the arm bar I never felt like I was in serious submission trouble. In the third I felt him fading and finished him with a right and left hook.
MMA Blaster: What is your next move?
Bobonis: I have a few offers on the table so I'm not sure yet what is next. I have to rest my hands a bit because they are pretty sore. I'd like to fight one more time this year.
MMA Blaster: Any shout outs? Sponsor mentions?
Bobonis: I want to thank my parents, family, friends, Marcos and David Avellan, everyone at the Freestyle Fighting Academy, Brawl and Maul, MMA Global Solutions, Swole Nutrition, Well Rounded Warrior, MMA Sporting Goods, Born Filthy MMA and Fast Graphics.
Da Matta is a serious talent in the BJJ game, winning a World Championship in 1996 in the purple belt division, a Brazilian National Championship in 2000, and silvers at the 1999 Pan-Am Games and 2000 Worlds.
Bobonis has been a friend of mine since I did a story on him in preparation for a bout back in 2008. I was recently able to catch up Shah and ask a few questions about his recent performance.
MMA Blaster: What did you know about Marcos da Matta and his BJJ credentials going into the fight?
Bobonis: Going into the fight I knew that he was the best BJJ player at 135 pounds in the Florida MMA scene. I didn't want to look him up before the fight because I didn't want to over think it. After the fight I looked him up, and he has more BJJ titles than I have MMA fights.
MMA Blaster: What was the game plan for the fight?
Bobonis: Master Marcos Avellan of FFA and I put together a game plan that seemed to pan out exactly the way we thought it would. We wanted to pot shot him with clean shots and keep distance. We wanted him to work hard for every take down and for me to keep getting up after being taken down. Then, when he started to tire from all the take down attempts, get more aggressive with the stand-up.
MMA Blaster: How did the fight play out? Did he have you any trouble with his submission attempts? What did you hit him with for the KO?
Bobonis: The fight played out according to the game plan. I hurt him, then dropped him with a few right hands in the first round. Almost took his leg off with a low kick, and made him work hard for every take down.
I was caught in a tight arm bar early in the fight that popped my arm a bit. Also, my back was taken twice, but besides the arm bar I never felt like I was in serious submission trouble. In the third I felt him fading and finished him with a right and left hook.
MMA Blaster: What is your next move?
Bobonis: I have a few offers on the table so I'm not sure yet what is next. I have to rest my hands a bit because they are pretty sore. I'd like to fight one more time this year.
MMA Blaster: Any shout outs? Sponsor mentions?
Bobonis: I want to thank my parents, family, friends, Marcos and David Avellan, everyone at the Freestyle Fighting Academy, Brawl and Maul, MMA Global Solutions, Swole Nutrition, Well Rounded Warrior, MMA Sporting Goods, Born Filthy MMA and Fast Graphics.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Fights to Make After UFC 135 and UFN 25
UFC 135 and UFN 25 were two solid events that shook up the landscape of the UFC. Most notable was another excellent performance by Jon Jones at UFC 135 and Jake Ellenberger's nasty KO of Jake Shields at UFN 25.
Here is a mock look-in at some potential bouts down the line:
Jon Jones against Rashad Evans- Jones is coming off a dominant performance against Rampage Jackson, utilizing his range, landing low kicks at will, and ending the fight with a 4th round rear naked choke. Rashad has been chomping at the bit for a title shot, last fighting Tito Ortiz at UFC 133 and winning via TKO.
Jake Ellenberger against winner of Condit v. GSP- Ellenberger has been on fire since his insanely close loss to Carlos Condit, winning 5 straight fights. His last was the pinnacle with a destructive KO against title challenger Jake Shields.
Josh Koscheck against Tim Boetsch- Koscheck was able to stop Matt Hughes via TKO at UFC 135 as time was expiring. With hints at moving to 185, and the UFC not eager to see GSP v. Koscheck III, it is time for him to make the jump. Boetsch notched another big time peformance at UFC 135, crushing Nick Ring, before that he stopped Kendall Grove.
Travis Browne against the winner of Kongo v. Mitrione- Browne now stands at 12-0-1, taking a unanimous decision against Rob Broughton at UFC 135. With the draw coming against Cheick Kongo, a rematch would make sense should he win against Mitrione. Mitrione has confused many with his striking and athletic ability. Mitrione v. Kongo happens at UFC 137.
Nate Diaz against the winner of Mac Danzig v. Matt Wiman- Diaz is coming off a pinpoint performance against Takanori Gomi. Looking to make another run at 155, after alternating wins and losses at 170, the next logical step would be a fight against the winner of these two TUF vets.
Erik Koch against loser of Jose Aldo v. Kenny Florian- Koch was dominant in his decision win against TUF winner Jonathan Brookins extending his win streak to 4, defending takedowns and punishing his opponent. With Chad Mendes owning the title shot, Koch needs a high profile bout to push him into conention at 145.
Here is a mock look-in at some potential bouts down the line:
Jon Jones against Rashad Evans- Jones is coming off a dominant performance against Rampage Jackson, utilizing his range, landing low kicks at will, and ending the fight with a 4th round rear naked choke. Rashad has been chomping at the bit for a title shot, last fighting Tito Ortiz at UFC 133 and winning via TKO.
Jake Ellenberger against winner of Condit v. GSP- Ellenberger has been on fire since his insanely close loss to Carlos Condit, winning 5 straight fights. His last was the pinnacle with a destructive KO against title challenger Jake Shields.
Josh Koscheck against Tim Boetsch- Koscheck was able to stop Matt Hughes via TKO at UFC 135 as time was expiring. With hints at moving to 185, and the UFC not eager to see GSP v. Koscheck III, it is time for him to make the jump. Boetsch notched another big time peformance at UFC 135, crushing Nick Ring, before that he stopped Kendall Grove.
Travis Browne against the winner of Kongo v. Mitrione- Browne now stands at 12-0-1, taking a unanimous decision against Rob Broughton at UFC 135. With the draw coming against Cheick Kongo, a rematch would make sense should he win against Mitrione. Mitrione has confused many with his striking and athletic ability. Mitrione v. Kongo happens at UFC 137.
Nate Diaz against the winner of Mac Danzig v. Matt Wiman- Diaz is coming off a pinpoint performance against Takanori Gomi. Looking to make another run at 155, after alternating wins and losses at 170, the next logical step would be a fight against the winner of these two TUF vets.
Erik Koch against loser of Jose Aldo v. Kenny Florian- Koch was dominant in his decision win against TUF winner Jonathan Brookins extending his win streak to 4, defending takedowns and punishing his opponent. With Chad Mendes owning the title shot, Koch needs a high profile bout to push him into conention at 145.
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Video of the Day - Vila v. Warren
Here is Alexis Vila fighting Joe Warren at Bellator 51 which took place on 9/24/11 at the Canton Civic Center in Canton, Ohio.
Vila advanced to the final four in the BW tourney with the big time KO.
Vila advanced to the final four in the BW tourney with the big time KO.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Video of the Day - Bobonis v. Thorne
Here is Shah Bobonis fighting Chris Thorne at "Fight Time 4 - MMA Heavyweight Explosion" which took place on 4/1/11 at the War Memorial Auditorium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Shah recently notched the biggest win of his MMA career with a 3rd round KO over Marcos da Matta at Bellator 50.
Shah recently notched the biggest win of his MMA career with a 3rd round KO over Marcos da Matta at Bellator 50.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Video of the Day - Herman v. Kita
Here is UFC fighter Dave "Pee Wee" Herman fighting Michal Kita at Bellator 31 which took place on 9/30/10 in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Despite his claims that jiu-jitsu doesn't work, Herman shows some solid skills in this bout.
Herman next meets Mike Russow on the main card of UFC 136 next on October 8, 2011.
Herman next meets Mike Russow on the main card of UFC 136 next on October 8, 2011.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
How did Fox feel about MMA in 1998?
Fox and the UFC just signed a mega deal that promises four events to be aired on the broadcast network, sure to shatter all MMA ratings records in the United States.
But back in 1998, when MMA was only four years old in this country, Fox took another angle when covering MMA on it show, "Fox Files." It went the underground, illegal, human cockfighting, dangerous, next moral danger route. Headbutts, yeah, they are really dangerous doc, why they weren't the first thing against the rules is beyond me.
You'll see clips of Yves Edwards, Mark Kerr, Eugene Jackson, Tiki. Around the 8 minute mark is a unique clip of an event being busted by the cops, card shuffled after fighters leave; then continuing after the cops leave, which happened quite a bit back in the day.
But back in 1998, when MMA was only four years old in this country, Fox took another angle when covering MMA on it show, "Fox Files." It went the underground, illegal, human cockfighting, dangerous, next moral danger route. Headbutts, yeah, they are really dangerous doc, why they weren't the first thing against the rules is beyond me.
You'll see clips of Yves Edwards, Mark Kerr, Eugene Jackson, Tiki. Around the 8 minute mark is a unique clip of an event being busted by the cops, card shuffled after fighters leave; then continuing after the cops leave, which happened quite a bit back in the day.
Monday, September 12, 2011
Fights to Make After Strikeforce - Barnett v. Kharitonov
In a Strikeforce Grand Prix that has already lasted seven months, it is fair to say the luster has been lost to a certain extent. Add in a possible hand injury to finalist Daniel Cormier, as he punished the massive head of Junior "Bigfoot" Silva, and a possible finale might not reach us until the end of the year.
Josh Barnett v. Daniel Cormier- Barnett (31-5) enters the final of the Grand Prix on slick arm-triangle wins over Brett Rogers and Sergei Kharitonov. The former UFC champ, now known as "The Warmaster" will certainly enter the bout as the favorite, looking to strike to set up a takedown to use his vaunted submission skills.
(The Warmaster)
Olympic wrestler Daniel Cormier (9-0) tournament route has been off the beaten path, as he began by winning an alternate bout over Jeff Monson. Cormier then had his breakout win this past weekend knocking out the massive Bigfoot. Cormier will definitely let his hands fly again while mixing in takedowns against Barnett.
Muhammed "King Mo" Lawal v. Rafael "Feijao" Cavalcante part II for LHW Title- Both men enter the bout on dramatic KO victories. King Mo won his return bout with a first round KO of uber BJJ fighter Roger Gracie, while Feijao (11-3) stopped hyped wrestler Yoel Romero Palacios.
The first bout saw King Mo (8-1), with one bad knee, fighting a stand-up battle and eventually gassing out. A second bout with a healed up Mo would certainly yield fireworks again. The bout could be for the title, as Dan Henderson is without a contract, and likely to return to the UFC.
(King Mo)
Luke Rockhold v. Tim Kennedy for MW Title- Rockhold (8-1) had a dominant performance against reigning champ Jacare to take the 185 pound Strikeforce title. The only other fighter on a roll is Kennedy (14-3), who has defeated Robbie Lawler and Melvin Manhoef since his decision loss to the aforementioned Jacare. Rockhold has rattled off 7 straight wins.
Josh Barnett v. Daniel Cormier- Barnett (31-5) enters the final of the Grand Prix on slick arm-triangle wins over Brett Rogers and Sergei Kharitonov. The former UFC champ, now known as "The Warmaster" will certainly enter the bout as the favorite, looking to strike to set up a takedown to use his vaunted submission skills.
(The Warmaster)
Olympic wrestler Daniel Cormier (9-0) tournament route has been off the beaten path, as he began by winning an alternate bout over Jeff Monson. Cormier then had his breakout win this past weekend knocking out the massive Bigfoot. Cormier will definitely let his hands fly again while mixing in takedowns against Barnett.
Muhammed "King Mo" Lawal v. Rafael "Feijao" Cavalcante part II for LHW Title- Both men enter the bout on dramatic KO victories. King Mo won his return bout with a first round KO of uber BJJ fighter Roger Gracie, while Feijao (11-3) stopped hyped wrestler Yoel Romero Palacios.
The first bout saw King Mo (8-1), with one bad knee, fighting a stand-up battle and eventually gassing out. A second bout with a healed up Mo would certainly yield fireworks again. The bout could be for the title, as Dan Henderson is without a contract, and likely to return to the UFC.
(King Mo)
Luke Rockhold v. Tim Kennedy for MW Title- Rockhold (8-1) had a dominant performance against reigning champ Jacare to take the 185 pound Strikeforce title. The only other fighter on a roll is Kennedy (14-3), who has defeated Robbie Lawler and Melvin Manhoef since his decision loss to the aforementioned Jacare. Rockhold has rattled off 7 straight wins.
Jake Ellenberger Ready To Fight
Here is friend of MMA Blaster, Marcos Villegas, speaking to UFC Fight Night 25 headliner Jake Ellenberger regarding his upcoming bout with Jake Shields.
Ellenberger states that his 8 to 10 week training camp has gone well and he is injury free. He doesn't feel that Jake Shields is a big step up in competition, though Shields presents different problems. From bell to bell, Ellenberger promises to put the pressure on Shields throughout.
Ellenberger states that his 8 to 10 week training camp has gone well and he is injury free. He doesn't feel that Jake Shields is a big step up in competition, though Shields presents different problems. From bell to bell, Ellenberger promises to put the pressure on Shields throughout.
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Video of the Day - Bloodworth v. Farhat
Here is Brian Bloodworth fighting Scott Farhat at Wild Bill's Fight Night 33 which took place on 8/26/2011 in Duluth, Georgia.
Bloodworth (6-1) will make his UFC debut on five days notice against Mike Easton (11-1) at UFC on Versus 6.
Bloodworth (6-1) will make his UFC debut on five days notice against Mike Easton (11-1) at UFC on Versus 6.
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Video of the Day - Edwards v. Berto
Here is a slightly editted version of Yves Edwards fighting Edson Berto at Elite XC - "Street Certified" which took place on 2/16/2008 in Miami, Florida.
Edwards next fights Rafaello Oliveira at UFC on Versus 6.
Here is a look at the UFC on Versus 6 card which takes place in Washington, D.C., at the Verizon Center. The event will be broadcast on Versus and Facebook.
VERSUS CARD
Dominick Cruz v. Demetrious Johnson - BW TITLE
Pat Barry v. Stefan Struve
Charlie Brenneman v. Anthony Johnson
Mac Danzig v. Matt Wiman
FACEBOOK CARD
Yves Edwards v. Rafaello Oliveira
Michael Johnson v. Paul Sass
Byron Bloodworth v. Mike Easton
T.J. Grant v. Shane Roller
Josh Neer v. Keith Wisniewski
Joseph Sandoval v. Walel Watson
Edwards next fights Rafaello Oliveira at UFC on Versus 6.
Here is a look at the UFC on Versus 6 card which takes place in Washington, D.C., at the Verizon Center. The event will be broadcast on Versus and Facebook.
VERSUS CARD
Dominick Cruz v. Demetrious Johnson - BW TITLE
Pat Barry v. Stefan Struve
Charlie Brenneman v. Anthony Johnson
Mac Danzig v. Matt Wiman
FACEBOOK CARD
Yves Edwards v. Rafaello Oliveira
Michael Johnson v. Paul Sass
Byron Bloodworth v. Mike Easton
T.J. Grant v. Shane Roller
Josh Neer v. Keith Wisniewski
Joseph Sandoval v. Walel Watson
Friday, September 2, 2011
Video of the Day - Kitaoka v. French
Here is former Sengoku champion Satoru Kitaoka fighting Clay French in "Sengoku - Fourth Battle" which took place on 8/24/08 at the Saitama Super Arena, Saitama, Japan.
Kitaoka (28-10-9) next fights Willamy Freire at Dream 17. Kitaoka, who has spent his entire fight career in Japan, has 15 submission wins on his resume, including subs over UFC veterans Takanori Gomi, Carlos Condit, Kurt Pellegrino and Paul Daley.
Clay French (19-6), a former KOTC champ, has had a solid career in his own right, defeating WEC vet James Krause via split decision at the Titan Fighting Championship on 7/29/11. He holds wins over Jameel Massouh, Mac Danzig and Jason Ireland.
Dream 17 takes place on September 24, 2011, in Saitama, Japan at the Saitama Super Arena and will be broadcast on HDNet. The fights feature the quarterfinals of the bantamweight grand-prix.
Shinya Aoki v. Rob McCullough
Joachim Hansen v. Tatsuya Kawajiri
Takeshi Inoue v. Caol Uno
Yan Cabral v. Kazushi Sakuraba
Willamy Freire v. Satoru Kitaoka
Gerald Harris v. Kazuhiro Nakamura
Antonio Banuelos v. Hideo Tokoro - BWGP
Bibiano Fernandes v. Takafumi Otuska - BWGP
Masakazu Imanari v. Abel Cullum - BWGP
Rodolfo Marques v. Yusup Saadulaev - BWGP
Baru Harn v. Ikuhisa Minowa
Kitaoka (28-10-9) next fights Willamy Freire at Dream 17. Kitaoka, who has spent his entire fight career in Japan, has 15 submission wins on his resume, including subs over UFC veterans Takanori Gomi, Carlos Condit, Kurt Pellegrino and Paul Daley.
Clay French (19-6), a former KOTC champ, has had a solid career in his own right, defeating WEC vet James Krause via split decision at the Titan Fighting Championship on 7/29/11. He holds wins over Jameel Massouh, Mac Danzig and Jason Ireland.
Dream 17 takes place on September 24, 2011, in Saitama, Japan at the Saitama Super Arena and will be broadcast on HDNet. The fights feature the quarterfinals of the bantamweight grand-prix.
Shinya Aoki v. Rob McCullough
Joachim Hansen v. Tatsuya Kawajiri
Takeshi Inoue v. Caol Uno
Yan Cabral v. Kazushi Sakuraba
Willamy Freire v. Satoru Kitaoka
Gerald Harris v. Kazuhiro Nakamura
Antonio Banuelos v. Hideo Tokoro - BWGP
Bibiano Fernandes v. Takafumi Otuska - BWGP
Masakazu Imanari v. Abel Cullum - BWGP
Rodolfo Marques v. Yusup Saadulaev - BWGP
Baru Harn v. Ikuhisa Minowa
Thursday, September 1, 2011
TUF 14 Rumors and Preview
The Ultimate Fighter 14 debuts tonight, September 21, 2011, with head coaches Jason "Mayhem" Miller opposite Michael Bisping. The show will be the first to feature the lighter weights, with tournaments for the 135 and 145 pound divisions.
(Michael Bisping pictured)
After multiple complaints, the show will again feature an elimination round to get into the house. As such, there will be 32 fighters starting out, with 16 in each bracket. In addition, there will not be a wild card fight. With injuries a constant in the show, that also is a good move.
(Jason "Mayhem" Miller pictured)
Listed below are the contestants which have been confirmed on numerous MMA websites and seen in the teaser videos.
The obvious front-runners in the 145 division are Micah Miller and Eric Marriot, each of whom have big show experience with solid overall skills. Hopefully Dana White doesn't match them up in the opening match-ups. The featherweight division has some interesting prospects as well, including KOTC's 135 pound champ Jimmie Rivera, undefeated fighter Stephen Bass, Jesse Newell and Team Alpha Male's Bryan Caraway.
The 135 division seems more open, with experienced John Dodson likely being the favorite, though he normally fights at 125. TJ Dillashaw is an interesting fighter, having wrestled for Cal Sate and training under at Team Alpha Male. Brandon Merkt is an undefeated fighter at 11-0, but really has faced only sub-par competition.
There always seems to be a well traveled veteran that rises to the occasion and notches some wins on the show. With it being the 135 division, several bantamweight fighters have usually fought up one or two weightclasses to get experience. We'll see how 24+ fight vets Matt Jaggers, Paul McVeigh and Johnny Bedford do in the tournament.
135 - Bantamweight
John "The Magician" Dodson (11-5)- Team Jackson trained fighter who normally fights at 125, only losses due to decision. Last fights were victories over John Moraga (7-1) and Jessie Riggleman (10-2). Record also listed at 14-5.
T.J. Dillashaw (4-0)- Based out of Team Alpha Male, Dillashaw was a collegiate wrestler at Cal State Fullerton. Was victorious over then undefeated Taylor McCorriston (5-1) in his last bout via TKO.
Paul McVeigh (18-6)- A BJJ brown belt, owned the Cage Warriors belt in the UK. Enters the tournament on 3 straight wins, his last over Andreas Bernhard (7-2).
Brandon Merkt (11-0)- Fighting out of Wisconsin, Merkt has steamrolled regional competition. Best win over Billy Jochum (10-5).
Matt "Jagger Bomb" Jaggers (20-7)- An Indiana fighter who has fought for Sengoku, Bellator and ShoXC, Jaggers has 17 finishes on his resume. He defeated Orville Smith (11-3) in ShoXC and Peter Dominguez (2-2) in Bellator.
Carson "Little Juggernaut" Beebe (6-1)- Younger brother of former WEC champ Chase Beebe. Training out of the Midwest Training Center, has four stoppage wins out of 6.
Dustin Pague (9-4)- The current Ring of Combat 135 pound champ, Pague has 5 straight wins. Pague, who has delivered all nine of his wins by knockout, technical knockout or submission.
Louis Gaudinot (5-1)- This New York based fighter from Team Tiger Schulmann has fought exclusively in the Ring of Combat organization. Defeated Jesse Riggleman (10-2) in last bout via guillotine.
Johnny Bedford (17-9, also seen 22-9)- A five year fight veteran, Bedford won via rear naked choke over WEC vet Frank Gomez (10-4) in his last bout. All-American wrestler has won belts for the Superior Warrior Championship and Elite Combat League.
Bruce "BJ" Ferguson (6-2)- Won his only big fight against TJ Barber at Bellator 30. Has a KO win over Jeremy Pender (7-2).
Orville "Pooh Bear" Smith (12-3)- Once held the Legends of Fighting 135 pound belt. Fought in ShoXC. Holds a split decision win over castmate Josh Ferguson.
Roland Delorme (6-1)- Fighting out of Winnepeg, Canada, Delorme was 6-0 with 4 subs and 2 TKO's before a split decision loss to Eric Wilson (5-1) in his last fight.
Josh "Taz" Ferguson (7-3)- Younger brother of BJ Ferguson, all seven wins have come via submission. He has not fought since a split decision loss to Jessie Riggleman on 10/3/09.
John "Prince" Albert (6-1)- Was 6-0 with 3 subs and 3 TKO's before last bout, where he lost to Roy Bradshaw via guillotine choke. Fights out of Washington's Victory Athletics.
Casey Dyer (6-1)- A ridiculously tall 6'1" and 135, Dyer has never gone the distance in his MMA career with 3 KO's and 3 Sub wins. Lost his last fight via triangle to Jeremy Pender.
Tateki Matsuda (6-3)- Fighting out of Boston, Matsuda lost to Saul Almeida in his last bout at Bellator 48.
145 - Featherweight
Micah Miller (17-4)- Younger brother of UFC's Cole Miller, Micah last fought at Tachi Palace 7, defeating Isaac DeJesus (9-3) with a neck crank. Has career wins over Diego Saraiva (21-15), Bruce Connors (8-3), Anthony Morrison (16-10) and Jesse Moreng (9-1).
Eric Marriot (20-5)- A Bellator and M-1 veteran, Marriot is a well traveled Midwest fighter. Holds 2 wins and 1 loss against Ryan Roberts (16-9), submission win over Demi Deeds (15-10) and a decision win over Chris Mickle (28-15).
Jimmie "El Terror" Rivera (8-1)- Reigning KOTC 135 pound champ after a 5 round split decision victory over Abel Cullum (18-5). Defended the belt with a decision over Jared Papazian (13-6). Possible that he is in the 135 pound bracket, but everything I've seen has him at 145.
Bryan "Kid Lightning" Caraway (15-5)- A Team Alpha Male fighter based in California, Caraway has fought in the WEC, Strikeforce and Elite XC. Caraway defeated Marlin Weikel (7-2) in his last fight, and has Strikeforce wins over Alex Zuniga and Alvin Cacdac.
Jesse Newell (6-1)- A BJJ purple belt under BJJ master Fabio Leopoldo, and kickboxing instuctor at Gracie Ventura. Newell is the only fighter to beat Diego Grijo (7-1). Only loss to Brandon Bender (8-0). 3 TKO's and 3 submission wins in his career.
Stephen "Bigfish" Bass (10-0)- Fighting out of Champions Training Center in Georgia, Bass is undefeated with 5 submission wins. Has wins over Bellator vet Bryan Goldsby (13-13) and ShoXC vet JC Pennington (21-12).
Hamid "Akira" Corassani (9-3)- Fighting out of Sweden, Corassani has done well on the European MMA circuit with career wins over Graham Turner (17-6), Ivan Buchinger (16-3), and Peter Mettler (7-2).
Marcus Brimage (3-1, incomplete)- This will be the second reality show for Brimage, who was on the worst MMA reality show of all-time, BET's "Iron Ring," where he made the finals. Fighting out of Alabama, Marcus defeated UFC veteran Kyle Bradley (15-8) in his last bout.
Steven "Super" Siler (18-9)- Fighting out of Victory MMA, Siler has fought almost all of his bouts on the Utah circuit. He has defeated well traveled veterans Enoch Wilson (16-7), Nick Mamalis (17-7) and Olly Bradstreet (35-11) once, after dropping three to him.
Josh Clopton (4-0-1)- Training out of San Francisco with Gilbert Melendez, Clopton last fought in November of 2009, taking a split decision over Mike Baskis (3-3).
Dennis "The Menace" Bermudez (7-2)- Began career 7-0, before being subbed in his last two fights. Has a win over UFC veteran Shannon Gugerty.
Diego "Ceara" Brandao (13-7)- Tough 6 year fight veteran currently of Team Jackson MMA and riding a 3 fight win streak, he has compiled 8 KO's and 3 submissions in his career. Originally from Brazil, Diego's big wins have come over Fabiano Silva (16-4), UFC veteran Brian Foster (15-5) and James King (15-10).
Brian Pearman (7-1)- Fighting out of Missouri while training mainly with TUF 12 runner-up Michael Johnson, Pearman notched his biggest win in his last fight with a decision over then undefeated Mike Richman (9-1).
Karsten Lenjoint (7-1)- Fighting out of Wolfslair gym in the UK, Lenjoint's only loss came to TUF 9's Jeff Lawson (14-5). 4 TKO's and 3 subs on his record, with last win a TKO over Dean Reilly (5-2).
Bryson Hansen (5-1)- Fighting out of Hawaii, Hansen has 3 TKO's on his resume. Last bout was a submission loss to Russell Doane (5-0).
Dustin Neace (22-16)- Indiana based fighter has fought exclusively in the Midwest, compiling 18 submissions wins and 4 TKO's. Wins over Corey Mahon (9-4) and Johnny Bedford (17-9) highlight his resume.
(Michael Bisping pictured)
After multiple complaints, the show will again feature an elimination round to get into the house. As such, there will be 32 fighters starting out, with 16 in each bracket. In addition, there will not be a wild card fight. With injuries a constant in the show, that also is a good move.
(Jason "Mayhem" Miller pictured)
Listed below are the contestants which have been confirmed on numerous MMA websites and seen in the teaser videos.
The obvious front-runners in the 145 division are Micah Miller and Eric Marriot, each of whom have big show experience with solid overall skills. Hopefully Dana White doesn't match them up in the opening match-ups. The featherweight division has some interesting prospects as well, including KOTC's 135 pound champ Jimmie Rivera, undefeated fighter Stephen Bass, Jesse Newell and Team Alpha Male's Bryan Caraway.
The 135 division seems more open, with experienced John Dodson likely being the favorite, though he normally fights at 125. TJ Dillashaw is an interesting fighter, having wrestled for Cal Sate and training under at Team Alpha Male. Brandon Merkt is an undefeated fighter at 11-0, but really has faced only sub-par competition.
There always seems to be a well traveled veteran that rises to the occasion and notches some wins on the show. With it being the 135 division, several bantamweight fighters have usually fought up one or two weightclasses to get experience. We'll see how 24+ fight vets Matt Jaggers, Paul McVeigh and Johnny Bedford do in the tournament.
135 - Bantamweight
John "The Magician" Dodson (11-5)- Team Jackson trained fighter who normally fights at 125, only losses due to decision. Last fights were victories over John Moraga (7-1) and Jessie Riggleman (10-2). Record also listed at 14-5.
T.J. Dillashaw (4-0)- Based out of Team Alpha Male, Dillashaw was a collegiate wrestler at Cal State Fullerton. Was victorious over then undefeated Taylor McCorriston (5-1) in his last bout via TKO.
Paul McVeigh (18-6)- A BJJ brown belt, owned the Cage Warriors belt in the UK. Enters the tournament on 3 straight wins, his last over Andreas Bernhard (7-2).
Brandon Merkt (11-0)- Fighting out of Wisconsin, Merkt has steamrolled regional competition. Best win over Billy Jochum (10-5).
Matt "Jagger Bomb" Jaggers (20-7)- An Indiana fighter who has fought for Sengoku, Bellator and ShoXC, Jaggers has 17 finishes on his resume. He defeated Orville Smith (11-3) in ShoXC and Peter Dominguez (2-2) in Bellator.
Carson "Little Juggernaut" Beebe (6-1)- Younger brother of former WEC champ Chase Beebe. Training out of the Midwest Training Center, has four stoppage wins out of 6.
Dustin Pague (9-4)- The current Ring of Combat 135 pound champ, Pague has 5 straight wins. Pague, who has delivered all nine of his wins by knockout, technical knockout or submission.
Louis Gaudinot (5-1)- This New York based fighter from Team Tiger Schulmann has fought exclusively in the Ring of Combat organization. Defeated Jesse Riggleman (10-2) in last bout via guillotine.
Johnny Bedford (17-9, also seen 22-9)- A five year fight veteran, Bedford won via rear naked choke over WEC vet Frank Gomez (10-4) in his last bout. All-American wrestler has won belts for the Superior Warrior Championship and Elite Combat League.
Bruce "BJ" Ferguson (6-2)- Won his only big fight against TJ Barber at Bellator 30. Has a KO win over Jeremy Pender (7-2).
Orville "Pooh Bear" Smith (12-3)- Once held the Legends of Fighting 135 pound belt. Fought in ShoXC. Holds a split decision win over castmate Josh Ferguson.
Roland Delorme (6-1)- Fighting out of Winnepeg, Canada, Delorme was 6-0 with 4 subs and 2 TKO's before a split decision loss to Eric Wilson (5-1) in his last fight.
Josh "Taz" Ferguson (7-3)- Younger brother of BJ Ferguson, all seven wins have come via submission. He has not fought since a split decision loss to Jessie Riggleman on 10/3/09.
John "Prince" Albert (6-1)- Was 6-0 with 3 subs and 3 TKO's before last bout, where he lost to Roy Bradshaw via guillotine choke. Fights out of Washington's Victory Athletics.
Casey Dyer (6-1)- A ridiculously tall 6'1" and 135, Dyer has never gone the distance in his MMA career with 3 KO's and 3 Sub wins. Lost his last fight via triangle to Jeremy Pender.
Tateki Matsuda (6-3)- Fighting out of Boston, Matsuda lost to Saul Almeida in his last bout at Bellator 48.
145 - Featherweight
Micah Miller (17-4)- Younger brother of UFC's Cole Miller, Micah last fought at Tachi Palace 7, defeating Isaac DeJesus (9-3) with a neck crank. Has career wins over Diego Saraiva (21-15), Bruce Connors (8-3), Anthony Morrison (16-10) and Jesse Moreng (9-1).
Eric Marriot (20-5)- A Bellator and M-1 veteran, Marriot is a well traveled Midwest fighter. Holds 2 wins and 1 loss against Ryan Roberts (16-9), submission win over Demi Deeds (15-10) and a decision win over Chris Mickle (28-15).
Jimmie "El Terror" Rivera (8-1)- Reigning KOTC 135 pound champ after a 5 round split decision victory over Abel Cullum (18-5). Defended the belt with a decision over Jared Papazian (13-6). Possible that he is in the 135 pound bracket, but everything I've seen has him at 145.
Bryan "Kid Lightning" Caraway (15-5)- A Team Alpha Male fighter based in California, Caraway has fought in the WEC, Strikeforce and Elite XC. Caraway defeated Marlin Weikel (7-2) in his last fight, and has Strikeforce wins over Alex Zuniga and Alvin Cacdac.
Jesse Newell (6-1)- A BJJ purple belt under BJJ master Fabio Leopoldo, and kickboxing instuctor at Gracie Ventura. Newell is the only fighter to beat Diego Grijo (7-1). Only loss to Brandon Bender (8-0). 3 TKO's and 3 submission wins in his career.
Stephen "Bigfish" Bass (10-0)- Fighting out of Champions Training Center in Georgia, Bass is undefeated with 5 submission wins. Has wins over Bellator vet Bryan Goldsby (13-13) and ShoXC vet JC Pennington (21-12).
Hamid "Akira" Corassani (9-3)- Fighting out of Sweden, Corassani has done well on the European MMA circuit with career wins over Graham Turner (17-6), Ivan Buchinger (16-3), and Peter Mettler (7-2).
Marcus Brimage (3-1, incomplete)- This will be the second reality show for Brimage, who was on the worst MMA reality show of all-time, BET's "Iron Ring," where he made the finals. Fighting out of Alabama, Marcus defeated UFC veteran Kyle Bradley (15-8) in his last bout.
Steven "Super" Siler (18-9)- Fighting out of Victory MMA, Siler has fought almost all of his bouts on the Utah circuit. He has defeated well traveled veterans Enoch Wilson (16-7), Nick Mamalis (17-7) and Olly Bradstreet (35-11) once, after dropping three to him.
Josh Clopton (4-0-1)- Training out of San Francisco with Gilbert Melendez, Clopton last fought in November of 2009, taking a split decision over Mike Baskis (3-3).
Dennis "The Menace" Bermudez (7-2)- Began career 7-0, before being subbed in his last two fights. Has a win over UFC veteran Shannon Gugerty.
Diego "Ceara" Brandao (13-7)- Tough 6 year fight veteran currently of Team Jackson MMA and riding a 3 fight win streak, he has compiled 8 KO's and 3 submissions in his career. Originally from Brazil, Diego's big wins have come over Fabiano Silva (16-4), UFC veteran Brian Foster (15-5) and James King (15-10).
Brian Pearman (7-1)- Fighting out of Missouri while training mainly with TUF 12 runner-up Michael Johnson, Pearman notched his biggest win in his last fight with a decision over then undefeated Mike Richman (9-1).
Karsten Lenjoint (7-1)- Fighting out of Wolfslair gym in the UK, Lenjoint's only loss came to TUF 9's Jeff Lawson (14-5). 4 TKO's and 3 subs on his record, with last win a TKO over Dean Reilly (5-2).
Bryson Hansen (5-1)- Fighting out of Hawaii, Hansen has 3 TKO's on his resume. Last bout was a submission loss to Russell Doane (5-0).
Dustin Neace (22-16)- Indiana based fighter has fought exclusively in the Midwest, compiling 18 submissions wins and 4 TKO's. Wins over Corey Mahon (9-4) and Johnny Bedford (17-9) highlight his resume.
Eric Paulson Talks SF Grand Prix
Here is Josh Barnett trainer Eric Paulson talking to Fight Hub TV's Marcos Villegas about the Strikeforce Grand Prix. Paulson explains that Barnett would like to fight Junior Silva, who apparently has been talking a lot of smack lately. However, he thought Cormier has been looking great lately.
Paulson is confident that Barnett will win the Grand Prix. He states that Barnett and Dana White, president of the UFC, have made-up.
Paulson is confident that Barnett will win the Grand Prix. He states that Barnett and Dana White, president of the UFC, have made-up.
Video of the Day - Barnett v. Mighty Mo
Here is Josh Barnett fighting Siala-Mou Siliga, aka Mighty Mo, at Dream 13 which took place on 3/22/10 in Yokohama, Japan.
Barnett won his opening round Strikeforce Grand Prix bout against Brett Rogers and moves on to face Sergei Kharitonov on September 10th.
Strikeforce - Barnett v. Kharitonov takes place on Sep 10, 2011, in Cincinnati, Ohio, at the U.S. Bank Arena. It will be broadcast on Showtime and HDNet.
SHOWTIME CARD
Josh Barnett v. Sergei Kharitonov - HW Grand Prix
Daniel Cormier v. Antonio Silva - HW Grand Prix
Ronaldo Souza v. Luke Rockhold - MW Title Fight
Roger Gracie v. Muhammed "King Mo" Lawal
Maximo Blanco v. Pat Healy
HDNET CARD
Mike Kyle v. Marcos Rogerio de Lima
Rafael "Feijao" Cavalcante vs. Yoel Romero
Jordan Mein vs. Evangelista "Cyborg" Santos
Alexis Davis vs. Amanda Nunes
Chris Mierzwiak vs. Dominique Steele
Barnett won his opening round Strikeforce Grand Prix bout against Brett Rogers and moves on to face Sergei Kharitonov on September 10th.
Strikeforce - Barnett v. Kharitonov takes place on Sep 10, 2011, in Cincinnati, Ohio, at the U.S. Bank Arena. It will be broadcast on Showtime and HDNet.
SHOWTIME CARD
Josh Barnett v. Sergei Kharitonov - HW Grand Prix
Daniel Cormier v. Antonio Silva - HW Grand Prix
Ronaldo Souza v. Luke Rockhold - MW Title Fight
Roger Gracie v. Muhammed "King Mo" Lawal
Maximo Blanco v. Pat Healy
HDNET CARD
Mike Kyle v. Marcos Rogerio de Lima
Rafael "Feijao" Cavalcante vs. Yoel Romero
Jordan Mein vs. Evangelista "Cyborg" Santos
Alexis Davis vs. Amanda Nunes
Chris Mierzwiak vs. Dominique Steele
Video of the Day - Hornbuckle v. Carl
Here is a highlight video of Dan Hornbuckle's awesome submission victory over Steve Carl from Bellator - Texas, which happened on 5/20/10.
Hornbuckle will next compete at Bellator 49 on September 10th against Luis Santos in the start of the Bellator 5 welterweight tournament.
Bellator 49 takes place at Atlantic City, New Jersey at the Ceasars and will be broadcast on MTV2 on September 10, 2011.
MTV2 CARD
Dan Hornbuckle v. Luis Santos (WW 1ST RND)
Chris Cisneros v. Ben Saunders (WW 1ST RND)
Chris Lozano v. Brent Weedman (WW 1ST RND)
Steve Carl v. Douglas Lima (WW 1ST RND)
PRELIMINARY CARD
Joel Roberts v. Brylan Van Artsdalen
Giedrius Karavackas v. LeVon Maynard
Alexandre "Popo" Bezerra v. Scott Heckman
Lester Caslow v. James "Binky" Jones
Azunna Anyanwu v. J.A. Dudley
Hornbuckle will next compete at Bellator 49 on September 10th against Luis Santos in the start of the Bellator 5 welterweight tournament.
Bellator 49 takes place at Atlantic City, New Jersey at the Ceasars and will be broadcast on MTV2 on September 10, 2011.
MTV2 CARD
Dan Hornbuckle v. Luis Santos (WW 1ST RND)
Chris Cisneros v. Ben Saunders (WW 1ST RND)
Chris Lozano v. Brent Weedman (WW 1ST RND)
Steve Carl v. Douglas Lima (WW 1ST RND)
PRELIMINARY CARD
Joel Roberts v. Brylan Van Artsdalen
Giedrius Karavackas v. LeVon Maynard
Alexandre "Popo" Bezerra v. Scott Heckman
Lester Caslow v. James "Binky" Jones
Azunna Anyanwu v. J.A. Dudley
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