Here is Mirko Cro Cop fighting former sumo wrestler and current pro wrestler Shinichi Suzukawa at IGF Inoki Bom Ba Ye 2012 which took place on 12/31/12 in Tokyo, Japan. The fight was Cro Cop's first since an October 29, 2011 loss to Roy Nelson.
This is one of the odder fights to come out of Japan in recent memory.
Monday, December 31, 2012
Video of the Day - Aoki v. McKee
Here is Shinya Aoki fighting Antonio McKee at the Saitama Super Arena on 12/31/12 in the Dream Glory NYE special. A replay of the event will air tonight on CBS Sports Net.
Friday, December 28, 2012
Goldberg Messes Up Rashad Evans' Name
Here is Mike Goldberg messing up Rashad Evans' name during a transition from Facebook to FX prelims at UFC 145. There is some solid cursing in this one.
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
Video of the Day - Aoki v. Black
Here is Shinya Aoki fighting UFC and Pride fighter Jason Black at Pride Bushido 12 which took place on 8/26/06 in the Nagoya Rainbow Hall in Japan.
Aoki will fight smothering wrestler Antonio McKee at Dream and Glory's New Years Eve event at the Saitama Super Arena on Monday. Jason Black, 23-4, appears to be retired last fighting at UFC 77, losing a decision to Matt Grice.
Below is the fight line-up for Dream 18 - New Years Special. Glory will hold a kickboxing event as well. No broadcast details for the United States have been offered.
Shinya Aoki v. Antonio McKee
Bibiano Fernandes v. Yoshiro Maeda
Denis Kang v. Melvin Manhoef
Georgi Karakhanyan v. Hiroyuki Takaya
Phil Baroni v. Hayato Sakurai
Will Brooks v. Satoru Kitaoka
Tatsuya Kawajiri v. Michihiro Omigawa
Aoki will fight smothering wrestler Antonio McKee at Dream and Glory's New Years Eve event at the Saitama Super Arena on Monday. Jason Black, 23-4, appears to be retired last fighting at UFC 77, losing a decision to Matt Grice.
Below is the fight line-up for Dream 18 - New Years Special. Glory will hold a kickboxing event as well. No broadcast details for the United States have been offered.
Shinya Aoki v. Antonio McKee
Bibiano Fernandes v. Yoshiro Maeda
Denis Kang v. Melvin Manhoef
Georgi Karakhanyan v. Hiroyuki Takaya
Phil Baroni v. Hayato Sakurai
Will Brooks v. Satoru Kitaoka
Tatsuya Kawajiri v. Michihiro Omigawa
Sunday, December 16, 2012
Big Country Goes Big
I have gotten a couple questions emailed to me lately inquiring about my thoughts on Roy "Big Country" Nelson's fighting skills, coaching job on TUF 16, his rankings among UFC heavyweights and a potential drop down in weight. Here are my thoughts:
Roy Nelson is an elite martial artist and gifted athlete. That has been evidenced several times, including KO's over Brendan Schaub, Stefan Struve, Cro Cop, Dave Herman and now Matt Mitrione. He has a legit BJJ black belt and has defeated Frank Mir in a grappling match. He can impose his will in fights, possesses an iron chin, and has excellent punching power combined with hand eye coordination.
I don't think Roy will ever drop to 205 pounds and have the prototypical UFC body. At 250 plus, I just don't see Roy wanting to lose that weight. Most fighters at 205 are faster than Nelson. There are some grapplers at 205 that could take Nelson down every round and stay away from his power.
Roy is at his best striking when he is able to counter and avoid power punches from big guys with reach on him. Long strikers should be peppering Roy with the jab and hitting him with kicks at distance. As far as his ranking, I'd guess Roy has a few more years left around number 10 with wins still left in the tank.
As evidenced by his championship TUF 10 run, Roy doesn't really like people telling him what to do. He knows what works for him and wants to do that. As a coach on TUF 16, it seemed like the fighters on Team Nelson wanted more instruction and harder practices. Roy deflected that sentiment by saying he couldn't teach heart, but really Roy probably just thought that's how his fighters should be trained to win the tournament.
Roy wasn't the best TUF coach, but look at the results. His fighters won 8 out of the 15 fights in the TUF tournament. His fighter Colton Smith emerged the champion of the show fighting the same way throughout the tourney. Smith imposed his will, got takedowns, threw elbows and attempted submissions. It wasn't the most pretty tournament run, but it was effective.
In the very first episode of TUF 16, Roy did say that the show is a marathon, not a sprint, and fighters should do anything they could to win. The goal is to win 3 fights in 6 weeks in the house to make the finale. The two worst things a TUF coach can do is burn his fighters out and pushing them too hard right before a fight or having a fighter get hurt during a practice. Neither happened under Roy's watch.
(Nelson was the first and only IFL HW Champ)
Roy Nelson is an elite martial artist and gifted athlete. That has been evidenced several times, including KO's over Brendan Schaub, Stefan Struve, Cro Cop, Dave Herman and now Matt Mitrione. He has a legit BJJ black belt and has defeated Frank Mir in a grappling match. He can impose his will in fights, possesses an iron chin, and has excellent punching power combined with hand eye coordination.
I don't think Roy will ever drop to 205 pounds and have the prototypical UFC body. At 250 plus, I just don't see Roy wanting to lose that weight. Most fighters at 205 are faster than Nelson. There are some grapplers at 205 that could take Nelson down every round and stay away from his power.
Roy is at his best striking when he is able to counter and avoid power punches from big guys with reach on him. Long strikers should be peppering Roy with the jab and hitting him with kicks at distance. As far as his ranking, I'd guess Roy has a few more years left around number 10 with wins still left in the tank.
As evidenced by his championship TUF 10 run, Roy doesn't really like people telling him what to do. He knows what works for him and wants to do that. As a coach on TUF 16, it seemed like the fighters on Team Nelson wanted more instruction and harder practices. Roy deflected that sentiment by saying he couldn't teach heart, but really Roy probably just thought that's how his fighters should be trained to win the tournament.
Roy wasn't the best TUF coach, but look at the results. His fighters won 8 out of the 15 fights in the TUF tournament. His fighter Colton Smith emerged the champion of the show fighting the same way throughout the tourney. Smith imposed his will, got takedowns, threw elbows and attempted submissions. It wasn't the most pretty tournament run, but it was effective.
In the very first episode of TUF 16, Roy did say that the show is a marathon, not a sprint, and fighters should do anything they could to win. The goal is to win 3 fights in 6 weeks in the house to make the finale. The two worst things a TUF coach can do is burn his fighters out and pushing them too hard right before a fight or having a fighter get hurt during a practice. Neither happened under Roy's watch.
(Nelson was the first and only IFL HW Champ)
Video of the Day - Arlovski v. Nelson
Here is Roy "Big Country" Nelson fighting Andrei Arlovski at Elite XC - Heat, which took place on 10/4/08 in Sunrise, Florida.
Arlovski is currently riding a 3 fight win streak with one NC against Tim Sylvia in One FC, a fight which Arlovski would have won if not for a non "signaled" soccer kick. Nelson is coming off a KO win over Matt Mitrione, his second straight UFC win.
Arlovski is currently riding a 3 fight win streak with one NC against Tim Sylvia in One FC, a fight which Arlovski would have won if not for a non "signaled" soccer kick. Nelson is coming off a KO win over Matt Mitrione, his second straight UFC win.
Friday, December 7, 2012
Video of the Day - Le v. Altman
Here is Cung Le's mma debut against Mike Altman which occured at Strikeforce - "Shamrock v. Gracie" on 3/10/06 in San Jose, California.
Le recently knocked out Rich Franklin at the headliner of UFC on Fuel 6, for his second straight UFC win. Le also has wins over Pat Cote, Frank Shamrock, Scott Smith and Tony Frykland.
Le recently knocked out Rich Franklin at the headliner of UFC on Fuel 6, for his second straight UFC win. Le also has wins over Pat Cote, Frank Shamrock, Scott Smith and Tony Frykland.
Saturday, December 1, 2012
Video of the Day - Khalidov v. Grove
Here is Mamed Khalidov fighting Kendall Grove at KSW 21 - Final Resolution which took place on December 1, 2012 in Warsaw, Poland.
Video of the Day - Horwich v. Martin
Here is Matt Horwich fighting Terry Martin at KSW 21 - Final Resolution which took place on December 1, 2012 in Warsaw, Poland.
Horwich's hair is exceptional for this fight.
Horwich's hair is exceptional for this fight.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Video of the Day - Diaz v. Jackson
Here is Nick Diaz fighting Jeremy Jackson which occured on 9/28/02 at UA 4: King of the Mountain.
Jackson is currently in the 4th year of a 25 year prison sentence for rape and burglary charges. Diaz is currently finishing off a NSAC suspension for a positive marijuana test.
Jackson is currently in the 4th year of a 25 year prison sentence for rape and burglary charges. Diaz is currently finishing off a NSAC suspension for a positive marijuana test.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Video of the Day - Zaromskis vs Carvalho
Here is the ending of Marius Zaromskis' fight with Bruno Carvalho from Rumble of the Kings 2011, which took place on 11/26/2011 in Stockholm, Sweden.
Zaromskis fights Andrey Koreshkov next in the semi-finals of the Bellator welterweight tournament at BFC 78. Zaromskis is currently riding a 5 fight win streak including defeating Nordine Taleb in the first round of Bellator's 170 pound tourney.
Zaromskis fights Andrey Koreshkov next in the semi-finals of the Bellator welterweight tournament at BFC 78. Zaromskis is currently riding a 5 fight win streak including defeating Nordine Taleb in the first round of Bellator's 170 pound tourney.
Monday, October 22, 2012
Worst Stand-Up Ever? Dada 5000 v. James
Here is Dhafir "DaDa 5000" Harris fighting Cedric "Killa Gorilla" James at AFL: Rock and Rumble 2 which took place on 3/5/10 at the Hard Rock in Hollywood, Florida.
DaDa 5000 is best known for his backyard fight videos, featuring no gloves and "loose" MMA rules. TUF's Alex "Bruce Leroy" Caceres can be seen in one such video locking in a triangle with his back on the grass.
I'm kind of a purist when it comes to stand-ups. If a fighter is actively landing strikes or working for a submission, I think the action should remain. What's embedded below is video evidence of one of the worst stand-up's in MMA history.
DaDa 5000 is best known for his backyard fight videos, featuring no gloves and "loose" MMA rules. TUF's Alex "Bruce Leroy" Caceres can be seen in one such video locking in a triangle with his back on the grass.
I'm kind of a purist when it comes to stand-ups. If a fighter is actively landing strikes or working for a submission, I think the action should remain. What's embedded below is video evidence of one of the worst stand-up's in MMA history.
Monday, October 8, 2012
Video of the Day - Penne v. Sugiyama
Here is Jessica Penne fighting Naho Sugiyama in Invicta FC 3 which took place on 10/6/12 in Kansas City, Kansas. The fight is for the Invicta 105 pound championship.
Video of the Day - Batista v. Lucero
Here is Dave "Batista" Bautista in his MMA debut against Vincent Lucero which took place on 10/6/12 at CES - MMA in Providence, Rhode Island.
Batista, a former WWE pro wrestling champion has been training at American Top Team. Lucero, a 300+ pound super heavyweight, has wins over TUF 3's Josh Haynes and the well traveled Jonathan Ivey.
Batista, a former WWE pro wrestling champion has been training at American Top Team. Lucero, a 300+ pound super heavyweight, has wins over TUF 3's Josh Haynes and the well traveled Jonathan Ivey.
Monday, October 1, 2012
Video of the Day - Lindland v. Khalidov
Here is Matt Lindland fighting Mamed Khalidov at KSW 16 which took place on 5/21/11. It is likely the last fight of Matt Lindland's career. Khalidov (25-4) meanwhile has rattled off five straight wins all via stoppage.
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Video of the Day - Silva v. Henderson
Here is Anderson Silva fighting Dan Henderson at UFC 82 which took place on 3/1/08 in Columbus, Ohio.
In a surprise announcement, Silva will next fight Stephen Bonnar at UFC 153. Fight starts at the 14 minute mark.
In a surprise announcement, Silva will next fight Stephen Bonnar at UFC 153. Fight starts at the 14 minute mark.
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Video of the Day - Browne v. Brink
Here is Travis "Hapa" Browne fighting Aaron Brink in Gladiator Challenge - Vision Quest from 6/19/10. Browne (13-0-1) next takes on Antonio Silva as headlining UFC on FX 5.
Hyped submission specialists Paul Sass (13-1) and Jim Hettes (10-1) have recently been handed their first losses, but I think Browne has the more accurate striking and can put Silva down.
Aaron Brink (25-23) is a UFC, WEC and Rings veteran who has battled back to the MMA game from a drug addiction. Brink was featured on an episode of the A&E show "Intervention" that focused on his issues with methamphetamine's that led him to a stint in porn under the name "Dick Delaware."
Hyped submission specialists Paul Sass (13-1) and Jim Hettes (10-1) have recently been handed their first losses, but I think Browne has the more accurate striking and can put Silva down.
Aaron Brink (25-23) is a UFC, WEC and Rings veteran who has battled back to the MMA game from a drug addiction. Brink was featured on an episode of the A&E show "Intervention" that focused on his issues with methamphetamine's that led him to a stint in porn under the name "Dick Delaware."
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Video of the Day - Jacoby v. Johnson
Here is Dustin Jacoby fighting Billy Johnson at HFC 11 which took place on 6/2/12 in Valparaiso, Indiana.
Jacoby, who recently won the CFFC middleweight title after a brief UFC run, is looking to add the Titan Fighting Championship belt in his next bout. TFC 25 takes place on 9/21/12 in St. Louis, Missouri.
Jacoby, who recently won the CFFC middleweight title after a brief UFC run, is looking to add the Titan Fighting Championship belt in his next bout. TFC 25 takes place on 9/21/12 in St. Louis, Missouri.
Saturday, September 1, 2012
What Can Boost TUF Ratings?
Despite awesome fights, dynamic story lines and being "live," Ultimate Fighter 15 scored the lowest ratings after moving to FX. The 12th episode came in with 875,000 viewers and the 11th episode drew 821,000, the two worst totals in series history. So, what can be done to perk up the ratings? TUF: Comebacks - USA v. World on Wednesday Nights, winner gets $100,000! Here are some changes I would make:
Move back to Wednesdays
The easiest change would be to moving the series back to Wednesday nights. The average guy is sitting around Wednesday night with nothing to watch besides the occasional 6 episode run of South Park. That same South Park episode is replayed at 11 PM. Friday night usually means a night out for many fans, and while bars love playing UFC PPV's, they aren't going to tune in for TUF.
Bigger Prize
Lay out a $100,000 bonus if you win the show. That will help you attract bigger named talent. The biggest prize for current TUF'ers is publicity. The fighters make $8,000 to show and $16,000 to win to start upon entering the UFC, usually with an escalating pay grade. Zuffa recently kicked in bonuses for Fight of the Show, KO of the Show and Submission of the Show. While that is fine and dandy, a fighter entering the UFC through the normal route typically makes $8-12K to show and $16-24K to start. They also can earn the same bonuses. What incentive did emerging stars Michael McDonald and Rory MacDonald have to give TUF a try?
Go Worldwide for Talent
The next change would have to be getting more talent in untapped markets. Last time I checked, MMA fans are able to read closed captioning. A TUF: USA v. World series could be very intriguing. Have 16 guys from Japan, Korea, Brazil, Canada and the UK try out for a team of 8. How great would it have been if Charles Oliviera was on TUF? He just smoked TUF 12 winner Jonathan Brookins.
Another Season With Heavyweights
The biggest draw for the UFC and TUF have been heavyweights. TUF 10 featured heavyweights, featuring Kimbo Silce, Roy Nelson, Brendan Schaub, Matt "Meathead" Mitrione and Marcus "Big Baby" Jones producing steller ratings. The Heavyweight division dominated at UFC 146, as it is generally regarded as the most entertaining card of 2012 so far. The division currently has the least talent as well, only having 29 current fighters on the UFC roster.
Another TUF Comebacks Season
TUF 4 churned Matt Serra who pulled off one of the largest upsets in UFC history defeating Georges St. Pierre for the welterweight title. What draws more than fighters with name recognition? Nothing! If the UFC can land some big names, the ratings will return.
Bracketology
The main reason the NCAA basketball tournament is such a hit is the brackets. Since TUF is an MMA tournament, why not have the fighters seeded and placed in fillable brackets? We could fill out our brackets on UFC.com, have pools with friends, and so forth. The UFC could capitalize on fans wanting to watch to see if their picks win and how their bracket shakes out.
Bracketology
The main reason the NCAA basketball tournament is such a hit is the brackets. Since TUF is an MMA tournament, why not have the fighters seeded and placed in fillable brackets? We could fill out our brackets on UFC.com, have pools with friends, and so forth. The UFC could capitalize on fans wanting to watch to see if their picks win and how their bracket shakes out.
What Does it All Mean? TUF Comebacks- USA v. World!
Move TUF back to Wednesdays and put $100,000 for the winner of each tournament. Have one bracket of heavyweights, one bracket at 170. Here is potential cast list:
HW - Team USA
Tim Sylvia (30-7)- Former UFC Champ
Heath Herring (28-14)- Former Pride star
Todd Duffee (7-2)- 7 second KO in the UFC
Jeff Monson (45-13)- former title contender
Joey Beltran (14-7)- 3 UFC wins
Eddie Sanchez (13-6)
Chris Tuchscherer (21-4)
Wild Card- Tank Abbott (10-14)- 8 UFC wins
Wild Card- Tank Abbott (10-14)- 8 UFC wins
HW - Team World
Andrei Arlovski (17-9) - Belarus- Former UFC Champ
Pedro Rizzo (19-9)- Brazil- Former UFC Champ
Rolles Gracie (6-1)- Brazil
Marcio Cruz (7-4)- Brazil
Soa Palelei (17-3)- Australia
Gilbert Yvel (38-16)- Holland
Tim Hague (14-6)- Canada
Wild Card- Semmy Schilt (26-14)- Holland- K-1 Legend
Wild Card- Semmy Schilt (26-14)- Holland- K-1 Legend
WW - Team USA
Karo Parisyan (20-8)- 8 UFC wins
Gerald Harris (21-4)- 4 fight win streak
Ben Saunders (13-5)- 4 UFC wins
Marcus Davis (21-9)- 9 UFC wins
John Howard (16-7)- 4 UFC wins
Frank Trigg (21-9)- Former title challenger
Tamdan McCrory (13-5)- 3 UFC wins
Wild Card- Nate Marquardt (31-10)- Former title challenger, now with SF
Wild Card- Nate Marquardt (31-10)- Former title challenger, now with SF
WW - Team World
Paul Daley (29-12) - UK- Former title challenger
Jonathan Goulet (23-12) - Canada
Yoshiyuki Yoshida (14-6)- Japan- 3 fight win streak
Keita Nakamura (24-5)- Japan- 7-1 in last 8 fights
Ryo Chonan (20-13)- Japan
Roan Carneiro (13-5)- Brazil
Jorge Patino (27-13)- Brazil
Jorge Patino (27-13)- Brazil
Wild Card- Carlos Newton (16-14)- Canada- Former UFC Champ
Sunday, August 26, 2012
Video of the Day - Dantas v. Nam
Here is Bellator champ Eduardo "Dudu" Dantas fighting Team Quest product Tyson Nam at Shooto Brazil 33: Fight for BOPE 2 which took place in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil on 8/25/12.
Saturday, August 25, 2012
Video of the Day - Estima v. Holland
Here is ADCC mega champ Braulio Estima making his MMA debut against Chris Holland at Titan Fighting Championship 24 which took place on 8/24/12.
Estima has won the absolute and 88KG titles at the ADCC in 2009, and also has gold medals in the World Championships, Pan Am Championship and European Championships.
Estima has won the absolute and 88KG titles at the ADCC in 2009, and also has gold medals in the World Championships, Pan Am Championship and European Championships.
Sunday, August 12, 2012
Video of the Day - Overeem v. Saki
Here is Alistair Overeem's second fight of the night in the 2010 K-1 World Grand Prix against Gohkan Saki.
Overeem (36-12) next fights Travis Browne at UFC Fight Night 26, which takes place on the all new Fox Sports 1 this Saturday.
Overeem (36-12) next fights Travis Browne at UFC Fight Night 26, which takes place on the all new Fox Sports 1 this Saturday.
Thursday, August 9, 2012
The Show Goes On For Shah Bobonis
I recently caught up with pro MMA fighter Shah "Showstoppa" Bobonis, who just captured his sixth straight victory. Since we last spoke, he defended his title against Rodolfo Rubio in Combate Extremo and defeated Aaron "Yoda" Williams in Atlast Fights 12 on July 14th.
Bobonis' next fight will likely take place later this year in the XFC promotion which is broadcast on AXS TV, formerly HDNet. Below, check out a highlight video from his recent bout where he won fighter of the night honors.
MMA Blaster: How did your Combate Extremo title fight against Rodolfo "Fito" Rubio play out in March?
Bobonis: The Rubio fight was a really tough 5 round title fight. Definitely one of the most grueling fights I have ever been through.
MMA Blaster: What areas of Rubio's game turned out better than what you anticipated?
Bobonis: Rubio's grappling off his back was better than I thought it was going to be. He was very good at staying safe off his back. That plus the fact there was no quit in him made it a really tough fight.
(Grappling with Rubio)
MMA Blaster: Your last bout was against Aaron "Yoda" Williams in Atlast Fights 12, how did that fight go? What was your key to victory?
Bobonis: The Williams fight went really well! I had a great weight cut and a excellent camp. I felt great during the fight and landed the majority of the big shots. I had a vicious knock down of Williams at they end of the second round and got five takedowns during the fight.
(Fighter of the Night Honors)
MMA Blaster: Who did you train with for that fight?
Bobonis: Camp started in Miami with FFA. Next, I was in Savannah, Georgia at Champions Training Center training with Muhsin Corbbrey, a WEC and Elite XC veteran. Finally I spent three weeks at Lloyd Irvin's MMA getting Mike Easton ready for his UFC fight with Ivan Menjivar.
MMA Blaster: Was the Williams fight at 140 pounds or 145? What weight will you be fighting at next?
Bobonis: The fight was at 140. Unless there is a belt on the line, I'd rather just fight at 140. I cut weight for less than a hour before weigh-in's. If someone insisted I make 135 pounds I would do it. Why be miserable if I dont have to be?
MMA Blaster: You have 6 wins in a row right now, what is next for you? What can you do to get noticed by the UFC?
Bobonis: I really don't know what's next. I'm in talks with a promotion thats on national TV, is paying well, and can keep me busy. Hopefully that works out. I'm not 20 years old, so I can't just wait around for the UFC to call.
MMA Blaster: What did you think about the Urijah Faber v. Renan Barao fight?
Bobonis: Faber's striking looked off that night. He was off balance when he would try and close the distance and never landed more than one punch at a time. His transition game was nonexistant! He never set up any wresting with his striking, which used to be his strength. It was a very bad performance by Faber. Faber's performance made Barao look even better than he really is. Not to say he isn't a great fighter, but Faber made him look like Jose Aldo.
MMA Blaster: Do you have any thank you's or shout-outs?
Bobonis: I want to thank FFA, Champions Training Center, Lloyd Irvin's MMA, Brawl and Maul, Trim Nutrition, MMA Solutions, all my training partners and my parents.
*See the knockdown just past the 40 second mark
(Atlast Fight Promo Picture)
Bobonis' next fight will likely take place later this year in the XFC promotion which is broadcast on AXS TV, formerly HDNet. Below, check out a highlight video from his recent bout where he won fighter of the night honors.
MMA Blaster: How did your Combate Extremo title fight against Rodolfo "Fito" Rubio play out in March?
Bobonis: The Rubio fight was a really tough 5 round title fight. Definitely one of the most grueling fights I have ever been through.
MMA Blaster: What areas of Rubio's game turned out better than what you anticipated?
Bobonis: Rubio's grappling off his back was better than I thought it was going to be. He was very good at staying safe off his back. That plus the fact there was no quit in him made it a really tough fight.
(Grappling with Rubio)
MMA Blaster: Your last bout was against Aaron "Yoda" Williams in Atlast Fights 12, how did that fight go? What was your key to victory?
Bobonis: The Williams fight went really well! I had a great weight cut and a excellent camp. I felt great during the fight and landed the majority of the big shots. I had a vicious knock down of Williams at they end of the second round and got five takedowns during the fight.
(Fighter of the Night Honors)
MMA Blaster: Who did you train with for that fight?
Bobonis: Camp started in Miami with FFA. Next, I was in Savannah, Georgia at Champions Training Center training with Muhsin Corbbrey, a WEC and Elite XC veteran. Finally I spent three weeks at Lloyd Irvin's MMA getting Mike Easton ready for his UFC fight with Ivan Menjivar.
MMA Blaster: Was the Williams fight at 140 pounds or 145? What weight will you be fighting at next?
Bobonis: The fight was at 140. Unless there is a belt on the line, I'd rather just fight at 140. I cut weight for less than a hour before weigh-in's. If someone insisted I make 135 pounds I would do it. Why be miserable if I dont have to be?
MMA Blaster: You have 6 wins in a row right now, what is next for you? What can you do to get noticed by the UFC?
Bobonis: I really don't know what's next. I'm in talks with a promotion thats on national TV, is paying well, and can keep me busy. Hopefully that works out. I'm not 20 years old, so I can't just wait around for the UFC to call.
MMA Blaster: What did you think about the Urijah Faber v. Renan Barao fight?
Bobonis: Faber's striking looked off that night. He was off balance when he would try and close the distance and never landed more than one punch at a time. His transition game was nonexistant! He never set up any wresting with his striking, which used to be his strength. It was a very bad performance by Faber. Faber's performance made Barao look even better than he really is. Not to say he isn't a great fighter, but Faber made him look like Jose Aldo.
MMA Blaster: Do you have any thank you's or shout-outs?
Bobonis: I want to thank FFA, Champions Training Center, Lloyd Irvin's MMA, Brawl and Maul, Trim Nutrition, MMA Solutions, all my training partners and my parents.
*See the knockdown just past the 40 second mark
(Atlast Fight Promo Picture)
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Video of the Day - Henderson v. Fedor
Here is Dan Henderson fighting Fedor Emelianenko, at Strikeforce - Fedor v. Henderson, which took place on July 30, 2011, in Hoffman Estates, Illinois.
Dan Henderson will next fight for the light heavyweight title at UFC 151 against Jon Jones.
Dan Henderson will next fight for the light heavyweight title at UFC 151 against Jon Jones.
Thursday, August 2, 2012
Video of the Day - Sarnavskiy v. Baker
Here is Alexander Sarnavskiy fighting Beau Baker in M-1 Global which took place on 3/25/11 in Norfolk, Virginia.
Sarnavskiy has begun his MMA career going 20-0, defeating TUF vet Len Bentley, UFC vet Doug Evans and Shooto/M-1 vet Karen Grigoryan.
Sarnavskiy has begun his MMA career going 20-0, defeating TUF vet Len Bentley, UFC vet Doug Evans and Shooto/M-1 vet Karen Grigoryan.
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Video of the Day - Roberts v. Lacy
Here is Buddy Roberts fighting BJ Lacy at RR: Rural Rumble 3 which took place on 8/28/10 in Fallon, Nevada.
Roberts will have the biggest fight of his career at UFC 150 against Yushin Okami.
Roberts will have the biggest fight of his career at UFC 150 against Yushin Okami.
Friday, July 13, 2012
Video of the Day - Kennedy v. McGivern
Here is Tim Kennedy against Ryan McGivern from IFL: Chicago, which took place on 5/19/07 at the Sears Centre in Hoffman Estates.
Kennedy next fights Luke Rockhold for the Strikeforce 185 pound title.
Kennedy next fights Luke Rockhold for the Strikeforce 185 pound title.
Video of the Day - Craig v. Kirk
Here is Andrew Craig fighting Jon Kirk at IXFA which took place on 2/26/11 in Houston, Texas.
Craig is coming off an amazing comeback head kick victory over Rafeal Natal at UFC on Fuel4.
Round 1
Round 2
Craig is coming off an amazing comeback head kick victory over Rafeal Natal at UFC on Fuel4.
Round 1
Round 2
Thursday, July 5, 2012
Video of the Day - Jenkins v. Adame
Here is Bubba Jenkins fighting Jesus Adame at RFA 3 which took place on 6/30/12 in Kearney, Nebraska.
Jenkins was the 2011 NCAA wrestling champion at 157 pounds. Jenkins is a rising prospect who is currently 3-0 training out of ATT.
Fight starts just past the 6 minute mark.
Jenkins was the 2011 NCAA wrestling champion at 157 pounds. Jenkins is a rising prospect who is currently 3-0 training out of ATT.
Fight starts just past the 6 minute mark.
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Video of the Day - Ortiz v. Kondo
Here is a classic UFC fight pitting a young Tito Ortiz against Yuki Kondo at UFC 29 which took place on 12/16/00 in Tokyo, Japan.
Ortiz will have his retirement fight at UFC 148 against Forrest Griffin. Ortiz will be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame at the UFC Fan Expo at noon on July 7th. The fight starts at the 7 minute mark.
Ortiz will have his retirement fight at UFC 148 against Forrest Griffin. Ortiz will be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame at the UFC Fan Expo at noon on July 7th. The fight starts at the 7 minute mark.
Video of the Day - Sonnen v. Stann
Here is Chael Sonnen fighting Brian Stann at UFC 136 which took place on 10/8/11 in Houston, Texas. Sonnen next went on win a decision over Michael Bisping to force a title rematch with Anderson Silva.
Silva v. Sonnen II will take place at UFC 148 on July 7th. Fight starts around the 7:00 minute mark.
Silva v. Sonnen II will take place at UFC 148 on July 7th. Fight starts around the 7:00 minute mark.
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Video of the Day - Silva v. Barreto
This could be Anderson Silva v. Jose Barreto in Meca Vale Tudo 2 which took place on 8/12/00 in Curitaba, Brazil.
Anderson will meet Chael Sonnen at UFC 148 on July 7th.
Anderson will meet Chael Sonnen at UFC 148 on July 7th.
Monday, June 18, 2012
Coolest Martial Arts Villians
As I told the Reverend, the MMA Blaster site has always been about telling the story of mixed martial arts. One of the major influences has been the movies that have attracted youngsters such as myself into martial arts. Here are some of the martial arts villains I enjoyed.
"Johnny Lawrence" played by William Zabka- The Karate Kid- Johnny was the best of the 1980's jerk. He played the punk rich kid to perfection in Back to School and Just one of the Guys as well. He made Daniel Son mad, and in the end a crane kick to the face sealed his fate.
"Chong Li" played by Bolo Yeueng- Bloodsport- Bolo broke necks of all the men he faced in the kumite. Ogre from Revenge of the Nerds almost beat Chong, but Chong was only playing possum, sending Ogre to the hospital with several blows after Ogre was KO'd. Chong met Frank Dux, played by Jean Claude Van Damme, in the final Kumite. Though Chong blew toxic powder in Frankie's face, multiple flying kicks and punches eventually ended Chong's reign on the kumite.
"Tong Po" played by Michel Qissi- Kickboxer- This time Jean Claude's bro is put in a wheel chair by Tong Po, additionally Jean Claude's love interest gets violated by Tong Po. Jean Claude actually gets drunk in a bar in this one and still kicks some major ass. The crowning scene is the wraps that are dipped in wax and then sealed by glass shards. Tong Po licked the glass, now that is crazy. 360 spin kicks by Jean Claude follow.
"Han" played by Kien Shih- Enter the Dragon- Han organizes a martial arts tournament and invites the best around. He also has a sweet island with his legion of fighters and a missing hand. The missing hand is actually an advantage as Han uses various attachments to brutalize Bruce Lee. My favorite is the end scene when he is brawling with the four knife blade attachment.
"Sho-Nuff" played by Julius Carry- The Last Dragon- Sho-Nuff, the Shogun of Harlem who possesses the red glow. Sho-Nuff wants to defeat Bruce Leroy to prove he is the baddest in all of New York. "Bow down and kiss my Converse.." In the end, Bruce Leroy gets his glow going with matrix style moves to prove he is the baddest.
"Johnny Lawrence" played by William Zabka- The Karate Kid- Johnny was the best of the 1980's jerk. He played the punk rich kid to perfection in Back to School and Just one of the Guys as well. He made Daniel Son mad, and in the end a crane kick to the face sealed his fate.
"Chong Li" played by Bolo Yeueng- Bloodsport- Bolo broke necks of all the men he faced in the kumite. Ogre from Revenge of the Nerds almost beat Chong, but Chong was only playing possum, sending Ogre to the hospital with several blows after Ogre was KO'd. Chong met Frank Dux, played by Jean Claude Van Damme, in the final Kumite. Though Chong blew toxic powder in Frankie's face, multiple flying kicks and punches eventually ended Chong's reign on the kumite.
"Tong Po" played by Michel Qissi- Kickboxer- This time Jean Claude's bro is put in a wheel chair by Tong Po, additionally Jean Claude's love interest gets violated by Tong Po. Jean Claude actually gets drunk in a bar in this one and still kicks some major ass. The crowning scene is the wraps that are dipped in wax and then sealed by glass shards. Tong Po licked the glass, now that is crazy. 360 spin kicks by Jean Claude follow.
"Han" played by Kien Shih- Enter the Dragon- Han organizes a martial arts tournament and invites the best around. He also has a sweet island with his legion of fighters and a missing hand. The missing hand is actually an advantage as Han uses various attachments to brutalize Bruce Lee. My favorite is the end scene when he is brawling with the four knife blade attachment.
"Sho-Nuff" played by Julius Carry- The Last Dragon- Sho-Nuff, the Shogun of Harlem who possesses the red glow. Sho-Nuff wants to defeat Bruce Leroy to prove he is the baddest in all of New York. "Bow down and kiss my Converse.." In the end, Bruce Leroy gets his glow going with matrix style moves to prove he is the baddest.
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Video of the Day - Siler v. Bias
Here is Steven Siler fighting Shawn Bias at Throwndown Showdown 4 in West Valley City, Utah.
Siler, a veteran of TUF 14, is fighting undefeated Joey Gambino at UFC on FX 4.
Siler, a veteran of TUF 14, is fighting undefeated Joey Gambino at UFC on FX 4.
Monday, June 4, 2012
Video of the Day - Keith v. Arreola
Here is undefeated prospect C.J. Keith fighting Fernando Arreola at TWC 7 at the Eagle Valley Casino in California which took place on 5/7/10.
The super lean Keith (8-0) makes his UFC debut against Ramsey Nijem at UFC on FX 4.
UFC on FX 4 takes place this Friday in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The prelims will air on Facebook and Fuel TV.
FX CARD
Clay Guida vs. Gray Maynard
Spencer Fisher vs. Sam Stout
Brian Ebersole vs. T.J. Waldburger
Ross Pearson vs. Cub Swanson
FUEL TV CARD
Hatsu Hioki vs. Ricardo Lamas
C.J. Keith vs. Ramsey Nijem
Brock Jardine vs. Rick Story
Joey Gambino vs. Steven Siler
Matt Brown vs. Luis Ramos
Chis Camozzi vs. Nick Catone
FACEBOOK CARD
Ricardo Funch vs. Dan Miller
Dustin Pague vs. Ken Stone
The super lean Keith (8-0) makes his UFC debut against Ramsey Nijem at UFC on FX 4.
UFC on FX 4 takes place this Friday in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The prelims will air on Facebook and Fuel TV.
FX CARD
Clay Guida vs. Gray Maynard
Spencer Fisher vs. Sam Stout
Brian Ebersole vs. T.J. Waldburger
Ross Pearson vs. Cub Swanson
FUEL TV CARD
Hatsu Hioki vs. Ricardo Lamas
C.J. Keith vs. Ramsey Nijem
Brock Jardine vs. Rick Story
Joey Gambino vs. Steven Siler
Matt Brown vs. Luis Ramos
Chis Camozzi vs. Nick Catone
FACEBOOK CARD
Ricardo Funch vs. Dan Miller
Dustin Pague vs. Ken Stone
Video of the Day - Monson v. Komkin
Here is Jeff Monson fighting Denis Komkin at M-1 - Fedor v. Rizzo which took place on 6/21/12 in St. Petersburg, Russia.
Just Say No to Olympic MMA
By: MMA Blaster
Mixed martial arts should not be added to the Olympics as it would be chewed up and spit out in a watered down version of the sport we know and love. The rule restrictions would be impossible to ignore. Compound that with possible headgear, sponsors not wanting to see blood, and the fact that the best in the world wouldn't be allowed to compete would scare most away.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) would have a field day with the rules of MMA. In a perfect world, MMA should be as close as possible to a no holds barred fight. The Olympics would probably take out knees and kicks to the face while standing or grounded. Next, they would ban elbow strikes of any kind.
I wouldn't be surprised if punches to the face of a downed opponent found there way to the ban list. Heel hooks and other leg locks would fall victim to the Olympic rulebook. Then comes the bout duration, which would probably consist of three, three minute rounds or less.
In Olympic boxing the competitors wear headgear to prevent injury. Anyone who has seen Tae Kwon Do knows the amount of padding that they wear. The Olympic commission would likely mandate MMA fighters to wear headgear, shin guards, and lord knows what else. The most difficult aspect of the Olympic format is participants staying injury free with three to four matches over a two week and a half week time frame.
On that same note, Olympic scoring in Boxing and Tae Kwon Do give points to effective techniques in cumulative fashion throughout the bout. You can essentially win a fight if you have one big round. If a boxer lands far more punches in the first round he could be up 6-1 in the first, leaving him to coast and stall for the final four rounds and win 8-5.
Another problem would be finding quality fighters to be involved in the event. The UFC holds exclusive contracts over most star fighters. The exclusivity restricts fighters from competing in other MMA organizations as well as any other combat art. The MMA amateur circuit is pretty barren and fraught with corruption.
Rather than having the Olympics butcher MMA, why not an MMA World Grand Prix held outside the Olympic banner?
A World Grand Prix could consist of eight countries competing over three events that are spread out over six months. The rule-set would be the unified rules without elbows to the face of a downed opponent in an effort to reduce cuts. You could have weight classes from 125 up to heavyweight and a women's competitor.
The biggest challenge would be getting the best fighters in the world. As such, the competition would probably have to be co-promoted by the UFC, Strikeforce, One FC, M-1 and Bellator. If each promotion would be able to make money from the event, promoters might be agree to the idea.
We could see teams from Brazil, Japan, USA, Canada, Russia, United Kingdom, South Korea, and Australia(New Zealand). Or Team North America, South America, Europe and Asia. Or you could take the top eight fighters from each weight division regardless of country. It is very fun to think about. What country would win it all?
Mixed martial arts should not be added to the Olympics as it would be chewed up and spit out in a watered down version of the sport we know and love. The rule restrictions would be impossible to ignore. Compound that with possible headgear, sponsors not wanting to see blood, and the fact that the best in the world wouldn't be allowed to compete would scare most away.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) would have a field day with the rules of MMA. In a perfect world, MMA should be as close as possible to a no holds barred fight. The Olympics would probably take out knees and kicks to the face while standing or grounded. Next, they would ban elbow strikes of any kind.
I wouldn't be surprised if punches to the face of a downed opponent found there way to the ban list. Heel hooks and other leg locks would fall victim to the Olympic rulebook. Then comes the bout duration, which would probably consist of three, three minute rounds or less.
In Olympic boxing the competitors wear headgear to prevent injury. Anyone who has seen Tae Kwon Do knows the amount of padding that they wear. The Olympic commission would likely mandate MMA fighters to wear headgear, shin guards, and lord knows what else. The most difficult aspect of the Olympic format is participants staying injury free with three to four matches over a two week and a half week time frame.
On that same note, Olympic scoring in Boxing and Tae Kwon Do give points to effective techniques in cumulative fashion throughout the bout. You can essentially win a fight if you have one big round. If a boxer lands far more punches in the first round he could be up 6-1 in the first, leaving him to coast and stall for the final four rounds and win 8-5.
Another problem would be finding quality fighters to be involved in the event. The UFC holds exclusive contracts over most star fighters. The exclusivity restricts fighters from competing in other MMA organizations as well as any other combat art. The MMA amateur circuit is pretty barren and fraught with corruption.
Rather than having the Olympics butcher MMA, why not an MMA World Grand Prix held outside the Olympic banner?
A World Grand Prix could consist of eight countries competing over three events that are spread out over six months. The rule-set would be the unified rules without elbows to the face of a downed opponent in an effort to reduce cuts. You could have weight classes from 125 up to heavyweight and a women's competitor.
The biggest challenge would be getting the best fighters in the world. As such, the competition would probably have to be co-promoted by the UFC, Strikeforce, One FC, M-1 and Bellator. If each promotion would be able to make money from the event, promoters might be agree to the idea.
We could see teams from Brazil, Japan, USA, Canada, Russia, United Kingdom, South Korea, and Australia(New Zealand). Or Team North America, South America, Europe and Asia. Or you could take the top eight fighters from each weight division regardless of country. It is very fun to think about. What country would win it all?
Monday, May 21, 2012
Video of the Day - Del Rosario v. Johnson
Here is Shane Del Rosario fighting Lavar Johnson at Strikeforce - Fedor v. Silva on 2/12/11 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Both Del Rosario and Johnson have made their way to the UFC.
Del Rosario will make his UFC debut at UFC 146 against Stipe Miocic. Lavar Johnson fights Stefan Struve at UFC 146.
Del Rosario will make his UFC debut at UFC 146 against Stipe Miocic. Lavar Johnson fights Stefan Struve at UFC 146.
Spotlight - Karate Mart
Karate Mart is an online superstore which can accomodate any and all of your martial arts needs. They have uniforms for Karate, Tae Kwon Do, Judo, Jiu Jitsu and Kendo. In stock are a plethora of weapons, including fighting fans, knives, swords, tonfa, throwing stars and throwing spikes. For MMA afficianados, they have rash guards, shorts, sparring equipment, headgear and more. The site literally seems to have no end!
My favorite thing about Karate Mart is that they offer free shipping on all orders over $60. They also have a physical store located on 15th and Indian School Road in Phoenix, Arizona. If you are looking for some awesome gear, check out Karate Mart.com!
My favorite thing about Karate Mart is that they offer free shipping on all orders over $60. They also have a physical store located on 15th and Indian School Road in Phoenix, Arizona. If you are looking for some awesome gear, check out Karate Mart.com!
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Video of the Day - Jung v. Son
Here is Chan Sung Jung fighting Fanjin Son at Deep 39 which took place on December 10, 2008 in Korakuen Hall,Tokyo, Japan.
Jung next fights Dustin Poirer at UFC on Fuel 3 tonight.
Jung next fights Dustin Poirer at UFC on Fuel 3 tonight.
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
UFC 146 - Heavyweight Blowout!
This Saturday, UFC 146 will take place in Las Vegas in the MGM Grand Arena. The card features an all heavyweight main card with some serious power punchers stacking the card. Headlining is the HW title fight between champion Junior Dos Santos and Frank Mir.
Originally Alistair Overeem was scheduled to fight champion Junior Dos Santos (14-1), but a random drug test by NSAC discovered elevated testosterone led to his dismissal from the card. In stepped Frank "Bone Breaker" Mir (16-5).
Mir is coming off a dominant arm breaking submission victory over Antonio Nogueira. Expect Dos Santos to do everything in his power to keep the fight standing where he can utilize his devastating boxing. Dos Santos has delivered 6 TKO wins in his 8 UFC wins, taking the title from Cain Velasquesz in his last bout. The Brazilian slugger has also defeated Shane Carwin, Roy Nelson and Fabricio Werdum in the UFC.
(Dos Santos punching Cro Cop)
Former UFC champ Frank Mir was getting tagged by Big Nog in his last bout before transitioning to the ground. Once there, Mir cranked a kimura breaking the large Brazilian's humerus bone.
While Mir's stand-up has improved dramatically over the past few years, he needs to get the fight to the ground against Dos Santos to have a chance to win. Mir's biggest wins have come over Brock Lesnar, Cro Cop and Tim Sylvia in the UFC.
Originally Alistair Overeem was scheduled to fight champion Junior Dos Santos (14-1), but a random drug test by NSAC discovered elevated testosterone led to his dismissal from the card. In stepped Frank "Bone Breaker" Mir (16-5).
Mir is coming off a dominant arm breaking submission victory over Antonio Nogueira. Expect Dos Santos to do everything in his power to keep the fight standing where he can utilize his devastating boxing. Dos Santos has delivered 6 TKO wins in his 8 UFC wins, taking the title from Cain Velasquesz in his last bout. The Brazilian slugger has also defeated Shane Carwin, Roy Nelson and Fabricio Werdum in the UFC.
(Dos Santos punching Cro Cop)
Former UFC champ Frank Mir was getting tagged by Big Nog in his last bout before transitioning to the ground. Once there, Mir cranked a kimura breaking the large Brazilian's humerus bone.
While Mir's stand-up has improved dramatically over the past few years, he needs to get the fight to the ground against Dos Santos to have a chance to win. Mir's biggest wins have come over Brock Lesnar, Cro Cop and Tim Sylvia in the UFC.
(Frank Mir pictured)
Friday, May 11, 2012
Video of the Day - Sandro v. Denis
Here is Marlon Sandro fighting Nick Denis in the Sengoku 8 - in a featherweight Dream Grand Prix bout which took place on 5/2/09 in Tokyo, Japan.
Sandro next will fight Daniel Strauss for the Bellator Season 6 featherweight tournament championship against Daniel Strauss. Denis, now fighting for the UFC, won his UFC debut against Joe Sandoval before falling to Roland Delorme at UFC on Fox 3.
Fight starts at the 6 minute mark.
Bellator 68 takes place tonight, May 11th in Atlantic City, New Jersey. As well as the featherweight final, there is also a bantamweight semi-final pitting Marcos Galvao against Travis Marx.
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Video of the Day - Petruzelli v. Rutherford
Here is Seth Petruzelli v. Bernard Rutherford from 2/2/07 in UWC, Ultimate Warrior Challenge.
The Karate/Wrestling specialist Petruzelli utilizes an unorthodox style that keeps many off balance while standing. During his time on TUF 2, he beat Dan Christison by unanimous decision before losing to runner-up Brad Imes. His most memorable MMA moment was the toppling of Kimbo Slice's hype with a jab to the face KO.
Petruzelli (13-6) will next fight Carmello Marrero at Bellator 68.
The Karate/Wrestling specialist Petruzelli utilizes an unorthodox style that keeps many off balance while standing. During his time on TUF 2, he beat Dan Christison by unanimous decision before losing to runner-up Brad Imes. His most memorable MMA moment was the toppling of Kimbo Slice's hype with a jab to the face KO.
Petruzelli (13-6) will next fight Carmello Marrero at Bellator 68.
Monday, May 7, 2012
Video of the Day - Galesic v. Marshall
Here is Zelg Galesic fighting former WEC champ Doug Marshall in the Super Fight League, which took place on 5/6/12 in New Delhi, India.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Video of the Day - Barry v. Hawk
Here is Pat Barry fighting Chris Hawk from the World Combat League. The full contact kickboxing league was owned by Chuck Norris and lasted two seasons.
Pat Barry fights Lavar Johnson at UFC on Fox 3 this Saturday.
Pat Barry fights Lavar Johnson at UFC on Fox 3 this Saturday.
2012 NCAA Wrestling Results
Here are the 2012 NCAA division I wrestling championships results. This year produced some awesome results, with Penn State, led by coach Cael Sanderson, winning the overall team championship.
Cornell's Kyle Dake captured his historic third NCAA championship at a third weight class, this time at 157 pounds. Dake won at 149 pounds last year after winning the 141 two years back. Unfortunately for MMA fans, Dake will likely try his hand at international wrestling before a potential MMA career.
The most impressive performance of the NCAA tournament was turned in by Penn State's David Taylor. Taylor destroyed the competition, registering four pins and a technical fall to capture the 165 pound championship. Kellen Russell took his second NCAA championship at 141. Matt McDonough won his first 125 pound championship after finishing second last year.
Many of these elite athletes will try to continue a path of amateur wrestling, but some will come to mixed martial arts. Strength, conditioning, mental toughness, the ability to cut weight and quickness are all traits of most high level wrestlers.
The biggest skill that transfers to MMA is the ability to take someone down and defend the take down. However, the mental aspect cannot be overlooked as most of these guys take part in over 100 combat matches over a college career.
125- Matt McDonough (Iowa) def Nicholas Megaludis (PSU) 4-1
133- Logan Stieber (OSU) def Jordan Oliver (Ok St) 4-3
141- Kellen Russell (Mich) def Montell Marion (Iowa) 6-4
149- Frank Molinaro (PSU) def Dylan Ness (Minnesota) 4-1
157- Kyle Dake (Cornell) def Derek St. John (Iowa) 4-1
165- David Taylor (PSU) def Brandon Hatchett (Lehigh) 22-7
174- Ed Ruth (PSU) def Nick Amuchastegui (Stan) 13-2
184- Steve Bosak (Cornell) def Quentin Wright (PSU) 4-2
197- Cam Simaz (Cornell) def Chris Honeycutt (Edinboro) 7-5
285- Anthony Nelson (Minn) def Zachery Rey (Lehigh) 4-1
Team Standings:
1. Penn State - 143
2. Minnesota - 113.5
3. Iowa - 103.5
4. Cornell - 90.5
5. Oklahoma State - 66
Cornell's Kyle Dake captured his historic third NCAA championship at a third weight class, this time at 157 pounds. Dake won at 149 pounds last year after winning the 141 two years back. Unfortunately for MMA fans, Dake will likely try his hand at international wrestling before a potential MMA career.
The most impressive performance of the NCAA tournament was turned in by Penn State's David Taylor. Taylor destroyed the competition, registering four pins and a technical fall to capture the 165 pound championship. Kellen Russell took his second NCAA championship at 141. Matt McDonough won his first 125 pound championship after finishing second last year.
Many of these elite athletes will try to continue a path of amateur wrestling, but some will come to mixed martial arts. Strength, conditioning, mental toughness, the ability to cut weight and quickness are all traits of most high level wrestlers.
The biggest skill that transfers to MMA is the ability to take someone down and defend the take down. However, the mental aspect cannot be overlooked as most of these guys take part in over 100 combat matches over a college career.
125- Matt McDonough (Iowa) def Nicholas Megaludis (PSU) 4-1
133- Logan Stieber (OSU) def Jordan Oliver (Ok St) 4-3
141- Kellen Russell (Mich) def Montell Marion (Iowa) 6-4
149- Frank Molinaro (PSU) def Dylan Ness (Minnesota) 4-1
157- Kyle Dake (Cornell) def Derek St. John (Iowa) 4-1
165- David Taylor (PSU) def Brandon Hatchett (Lehigh) 22-7
174- Ed Ruth (PSU) def Nick Amuchastegui (Stan) 13-2
184- Steve Bosak (Cornell) def Quentin Wright (PSU) 4-2
197- Cam Simaz (Cornell) def Chris Honeycutt (Edinboro) 7-5
285- Anthony Nelson (Minn) def Zachery Rey (Lehigh) 4-1
Team Standings:
1. Penn State - 143
2. Minnesota - 113.5
3. Iowa - 103.5
4. Cornell - 90.5
5. Oklahoma State - 66
Video of the Day - Palhares v. Nascimento
Here is Rousimar "Toquinho" Palhares fighting Fabio Nascimento in Fury FC 5 - Final Conflict, which took place on 12/6/07 in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
Palhares fights Alan Belcher at UFC on Fox 3 this Saturday.
Palhares fights Alan Belcher at UFC on Fox 3 this Saturday.
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Video of the Day - Dantas v. Makovsky
Here is Eduardo "Dudu" Dantas fighting Zach Makovsky for the bantamweight title at Bellator 65 on 4/13/12 in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Video of the Day - Jury v. Holmes
Here is TUF 13 and 15 castmate Myles Jury fighting Tyrone Holmes at KOTC - Encore which took place on 6/19/09 at the Soaring Eagle Casino in Mount Pleasant, Michigan.
Myles (11-0, 2-0 UFC) next fights Ramsey Nijem at UFC on Fox 7.
Myles (11-0, 2-0 UFC) next fights Ramsey Nijem at UFC on Fox 7.
Monday, April 9, 2012
Video of the Day - Grove v. Duffee
Here is Todd Duffee fighting Neil Grove at Super Fight League 2 which took place in the T-Box Mobile Arena, Chandigarh, India on 4/7/12.
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Video of the Day - Aoki v. Alvarez
Here is Shinya Aoki v. Eddie Alvarez from K-1: Dynamite which took place on 12/31/08.
Aoki v. Alvarez II takes place this Saturday at Bellator 66.
Aoki v. Alvarez II takes place this Saturday at Bellator 66.
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Video of the Day - Cote v. Machado
Here is Patrick Cote fighting Gustavo Machado at Amazon Forest Combat 2 which took place on 3/31/12 in Amazonas, Brazil.
Video of the Day - Kawajiri v. Sanchez
Here is Tatsuya Kawajiri fighting Donald Sanchez at One FC 3 which took place on 3/31/12 in Kalang, Singapore.
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Video of the Day - Smith v. Cordoba
Here is Maurice Smith fighting Jorge Cordoba at RFA 2 which took place on 3/30/12 in Kearney, Nebraska.
Video of the Day - Alexander v. Yvel
Here is Houston Alexander fighting Gilbert Yvel at RFA 2 which took place on 3/30/12 in Kearney, Nebraska.
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Video of the Day - Lima v. Martin
Here is Douglas Lima fighting Terry Martin at MFC 29 - "Conquer" which took place on 4/8/11 in Windsor, Canada. Lima, who captured the season 6 WW Belator Tourney title, will next fight champ Ben Askren at Bellator 64 on April 6, 2012.
Lima, a rising star in MMA, was interviewed by MMA Blaster back in July of 2008. You can view that interview here.
Lima, a rising star in MMA, was interviewed by MMA Blaster back in July of 2008. You can view that interview here.
Friday, March 16, 2012
Video of the Day - Monson v. Kharitonov
Here is Sergei Kharitonov fighting Jeff Monson at Dream 8 which took place on 4/5/09 at the Nippon Gaishi Hall in Japan.
Monson will fight Alexey Oleinik this weekend in M-1 Global.
Monson will fight Alexey Oleinik this weekend in M-1 Global.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Bellator Season 6 Status
Bellator Season 6 kicked off on March 9th at the Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, Indiana. The star studded show featured Pat Curran taking the featherweight title from Joe Warren with an epic KO victory.
Tournaments are being held in the 185, 170, 155, 145 and 135 pound men's divisions this season. Each division will also hold title fights for previous tournament winners, except in the 155 pound division, which saw Michael Chandler defeat Eddie Alvarez in an epic battle at Bellator 58.
Middleweight (185)
The middleweight division will find defending champion Hector Lombard (31-2-1) fighting season five champ Alexander Shlemenko (44-7) in a rematch of their Bellator 34 match-up. Lombard, a judo blackbelt, and powerful striker, is on a 24 fight win streak. Shlemenko is a dynamic kickboxer who won the Bellator season 2 and 5 tournaments.
(Pic from Lombard v. Shlemenko I)
Season 6 MW Quarter-Finals begin at BFC 61 on March 16:
Brian Rogers (8-3) v Vitor Vianna (12-2-1)
Giva Santana (17-1) v Bruno Santos (12-0)
Victor O'Donnell (11-3) v Vyacheslav Vasilevsky (15-1)
Maiquel Falcão (28-4 1NC) v Norman Paraisy (10-1-1)
Welterweight (170)
The welterweight division will see champion Ben Askren (9-0) fighting season 5 tournament champ Douglas Lima (20-4) at Bellator 64. Askren, an NCAA champion and Olympic level wrestler, narrowly defeated Jay Hieron at Bellator 56 to defend his title which he captured with a win over Lyman Good. Lima won season 5's tournament with a decision over Steve Karl before brutally KO'ing Chris Lozano and UFC veteran Ben Saunders.
(Askren v. Ryan Thomas)
Season 6 WW Final Four:
Karl Amoussou (14-4-2)- Defeats Chris Lozano via RNC.
Ben Saunders (13-4-2)- Defeats Raul Amaya via unanimous decision.
David Rickels (9-0)- Brutally KO's Jordan Smith to advance.
Bryan Baker (17-3)- Defeats Carlos Pereira via decision.
Lightweight (155)
Michael Chandler (9-0), defeated Eddie Alvarez via fourth round rear naked choke at Bellator 58, will likely get a non-title fight during the Season 6. Chandler won the Season 4 lightweight tournament, defeating Marcin Held, Lloyd Woodard and Patricky Freire. Chandler was an All-American at Missouri before making his transition to MMA.
(Michael Chandler v. Eddie Alvarez pictured)
Season 6 LW Quarter-Finals Final Four:
Lloyd Woodard (11-1)- defeats Patricky Friere via kimura.
Rick Hawn (12-1)- defeats Ricardo Tirloni via KO.
Brent Weedman (18-7-1)- defeats JJ Ambrose via submission.
Thiago Michel (9-2)- defeats Rene Nazere via split decision.
Featherweight (145)
The featherweight division will see two title fights this season barring injury due to Joe Warren (7-2) attempting a run at the Season 5 bantamweight tournament. Warren, the season 2 champion, will fight Pat Curran (16-4) at Bellator 60. Curran won the summer series 145 pound championship, where he defeated Marlon Sandro, Ronnie Mann and Luis Palomino.
(Joe Warren v. Pat Curran Bellator promo pic)
Pat Curran (17-4) will next fight Patricio 'Pitbull' Freire (17-1), who won the season 4 featherweight championship. Friere, a BJJ blackbelt and powerful Muay Thai striker, won season 4 by defeating Georgi Karakhanyan, Wilson Reis and Daniel Straus.
The first round of the featherweight tournament saw Marlon Sandro defeat Roberto Vargas via first round rear naked choke in a dominant performance standing. Alexandre Bezerra took a cautious approach at first before catching Kenny Foster in a second round rear naked choke as time was running out.
Mike Corey imposed his will on the favorite, Ronnie Mann, scoring takedowns and ground and pound to win via unanimous decision. Daniel Strauss used a similar gameplan, utilizing a quick power double to win via unanimous decision.
The Season 6 FW Final Four match-ups have been announced:
Marlon Sandro (21-3) v Alexandre Bezerra (13-1)
Mike Corey (12-2) v. Daniel Straus (18-4)
Bantamweight (135)
Season 3 champion Zach Makovsky (14-2) will fight Season 5 champion Eduardo Dantas (13-2) for the bantamweight title. Makovsky has fought in two non-title fights since his season 3 championship, defeating Chad Robichaux via TKO and Ryan Roberts via submission. Dantas captured the season 5 title by defeating Wilson Reis, Ed West and Alexis Vila.
(Makovsky v. Robichaux pictured)
Quarter-Finals Participants, likely to begin at BFC 64:
Marcos Galvao (10-5-1)
Hiroshi Nakamura (14-5-4)
Masakatsu Ueda (14-1-2)
Alexis Vila (11-1)
Luis Nogueira (12-2)
Rodrigo Lima (9-0)
Ed West (17-6)
Travis Marx (18-3)
Tournaments are being held in the 185, 170, 155, 145 and 135 pound men's divisions this season. Each division will also hold title fights for previous tournament winners, except in the 155 pound division, which saw Michael Chandler defeat Eddie Alvarez in an epic battle at Bellator 58.
Middleweight (185)
The middleweight division will find defending champion Hector Lombard (31-2-1) fighting season five champ Alexander Shlemenko (44-7) in a rematch of their Bellator 34 match-up. Lombard, a judo blackbelt, and powerful striker, is on a 24 fight win streak. Shlemenko is a dynamic kickboxer who won the Bellator season 2 and 5 tournaments.
(Pic from Lombard v. Shlemenko I)
Season 6 MW Quarter-Finals begin at BFC 61 on March 16:
Brian Rogers (8-3) v Vitor Vianna (12-2-1)
Giva Santana (17-1) v Bruno Santos (12-0)
Victor O'Donnell (11-3) v Vyacheslav Vasilevsky (15-1)
Maiquel Falcão (28-4 1NC) v Norman Paraisy (10-1-1)
Welterweight (170)
The welterweight division will see champion Ben Askren (9-0) fighting season 5 tournament champ Douglas Lima (20-4) at Bellator 64. Askren, an NCAA champion and Olympic level wrestler, narrowly defeated Jay Hieron at Bellator 56 to defend his title which he captured with a win over Lyman Good. Lima won season 5's tournament with a decision over Steve Karl before brutally KO'ing Chris Lozano and UFC veteran Ben Saunders.
(Askren v. Ryan Thomas)
Season 6 WW Final Four:
Karl Amoussou (14-4-2)- Defeats Chris Lozano via RNC.
Ben Saunders (13-4-2)- Defeats Raul Amaya via unanimous decision.
David Rickels (9-0)- Brutally KO's Jordan Smith to advance.
Bryan Baker (17-3)- Defeats Carlos Pereira via decision.
Lightweight (155)
Michael Chandler (9-0), defeated Eddie Alvarez via fourth round rear naked choke at Bellator 58, will likely get a non-title fight during the Season 6. Chandler won the Season 4 lightweight tournament, defeating Marcin Held, Lloyd Woodard and Patricky Freire. Chandler was an All-American at Missouri before making his transition to MMA.
(Michael Chandler v. Eddie Alvarez pictured)
Season 6 LW Quarter-Finals Final Four:
Lloyd Woodard (11-1)- defeats Patricky Friere via kimura.
Rick Hawn (12-1)- defeats Ricardo Tirloni via KO.
Brent Weedman (18-7-1)- defeats JJ Ambrose via submission.
Thiago Michel (9-2)- defeats Rene Nazere via split decision.
Featherweight (145)
The featherweight division will see two title fights this season barring injury due to Joe Warren (7-2) attempting a run at the Season 5 bantamweight tournament. Warren, the season 2 champion, will fight Pat Curran (16-4) at Bellator 60. Curran won the summer series 145 pound championship, where he defeated Marlon Sandro, Ronnie Mann and Luis Palomino.
(Joe Warren v. Pat Curran Bellator promo pic)
Pat Curran (17-4) will next fight Patricio 'Pitbull' Freire (17-1), who won the season 4 featherweight championship. Friere, a BJJ blackbelt and powerful Muay Thai striker, won season 4 by defeating Georgi Karakhanyan, Wilson Reis and Daniel Straus.
The first round of the featherweight tournament saw Marlon Sandro defeat Roberto Vargas via first round rear naked choke in a dominant performance standing. Alexandre Bezerra took a cautious approach at first before catching Kenny Foster in a second round rear naked choke as time was running out.
Mike Corey imposed his will on the favorite, Ronnie Mann, scoring takedowns and ground and pound to win via unanimous decision. Daniel Strauss used a similar gameplan, utilizing a quick power double to win via unanimous decision.
The Season 6 FW Final Four match-ups have been announced:
Marlon Sandro (21-3) v Alexandre Bezerra (13-1)
Mike Corey (12-2) v. Daniel Straus (18-4)
Bantamweight (135)
Season 3 champion Zach Makovsky (14-2) will fight Season 5 champion Eduardo Dantas (13-2) for the bantamweight title. Makovsky has fought in two non-title fights since his season 3 championship, defeating Chad Robichaux via TKO and Ryan Roberts via submission. Dantas captured the season 5 title by defeating Wilson Reis, Ed West and Alexis Vila.
(Makovsky v. Robichaux pictured)
Quarter-Finals Participants, likely to begin at BFC 64:
Marcos Galvao (10-5-1)
Hiroshi Nakamura (14-5-4)
Masakatsu Ueda (14-1-2)
Alexis Vila (11-1)
Luis Nogueira (12-2)
Rodrigo Lima (9-0)
Ed West (17-6)
Travis Marx (18-3)
Video of the Day - Sapp v. Thompson
Here is Bob Sapp fighting James Thompson at SFL 1 which took place 3/11/12 in Mubai, India. As you can see, this is not a pretty fight. I posted it because of numerous requests of people wanting to know what happened.
I honestly don't know how Sapp reversed Thompson from the bottom. I don't know how Sapp's knee then got hurt. I have seen knee injuries occur in practice, and it really doesn't take much. Ugly fight to say the least.
I honestly don't know how Sapp reversed Thompson from the bottom. I don't know how Sapp's knee then got hurt. I have seen knee injuries occur in practice, and it really doesn't take much. Ugly fight to say the least.
Saturday, March 10, 2012
TUF LIVE - Cast List
How do you get 16 fights into a 2 and a half hour time slot and still have room for a boatload of commercials? Easy, just make the fights 5 minutes long in total.
In regards to the production value, I liked that they kept the rawness with no commentators during the fights just hearing from the coaches and Dana White. Dominick Cruz rarely spoke during the fights, only answering questions when asked. Urijah Faber basically gave away all his research and inside information on all the fighters.
Here is the cast list:
Justin Lawrence (3-0)- Fighting out of Missouri, "The American Kid" began his career with a decision over Max Martyniouk in Strikeforce Challengers in 2010. Notched a KO and submission to round out 2011. Lawrence trains out of Team Blackhouse using a karate based stand-up attack and solid speed. Lawrence took out WEC vet James Krause (15-4), landing kicks and punches before hitting a questionable knee then finishing the fight.
Vinc Pichel (7-0)- All of Pichel's 7 wins have been via TKO/KO, with his biggest victory over Dream veteran David Gardner. Pinchel got taken down in his opening fight and showed good grappling against Cody Pfister (6-3), getting a rear naked choke win in a back and forth fight.
Sam Sicilia (10-0)- Fighting out of Team Fancy Pants, Sicilia has 5 KO wins and 4 submissions, mainly fighting .500 fighters. Sam crushed Erin Beach (3-1) with an overhand right in just 8 seconds to earn is place on the cast.
Michael Chiesa (7-0)- Fighting out of Team Fancy Pants in Washington, Chiesa has 5 submission wins on his record. Hasn't fought the best competition, with his biggest win over Darcy James (then 4-3). Chiesa out grappled, threw decent ground and pound, and eventually choked out Johnavan Vistante (3-1) with a rear naked choke.
Cristiano Marcello (12-3)- The lone Brazilian in the field, Marcello is a black belt under Royler Gracie having also trained under Rickson Gracie. Marcello has 9 submissions in his career, including over TUF 8's David Kaplan. Marcello didn't show the most fluid stand-up, but transitioned quick to mount over a takedown, threw plenty of punches, then locked in the fight ending rear naked choke on Jeff Carlsten (3-0).
Myles Jury (9-0)- Jury was a contestant on TUF 13, however tore his ACL during a practice. The 5'10" King of the Cage fighter has fought exclusively at 170. Jury defeated Akbarh Arreola (19-6) using 3 takedowns and a solid ground game to stifle him.
Mike Rio (8-1)- The Wolverine's only loss was to TUF 8 champion, Efrain Escudero. Has quality wins over Zach Juusola (then 8-1) and Mike Bruno (10-4). Rio choked out Ali MacLean (9-5) in an exciting bout, with Rio eating a couple punches showing good boxing and excellent grappling.
Daron Cruickshank (10-2)- Fighting out of the MASH team in Michigan, Cruickshank is on a 4 fight win streak, including a decision over GSP training partner Mike Ricci and Brad Cardinal. Cruickshank, who holds a TKD black belt, used an impressive stand-up display with great kicks, combined with power wrestling to win a decision over Drew Dober (7-3).
Joe Proctor (7-1)- Fighting out of Massachusetts, Proctor is on a three fight win streak which includes victories over Matt Bessette (then 7-2) and Oz Pariser (then 4-0). Proctor finished a tournament favorite Jordan Rinaldi with a guillotine choke submission. Proctor looked decent standing, and got the choke off a scramble.
John Cofer (7-1)- Fighting out of Rory Singer's Hardcore Gym, Cofer last defeated Marius Cujba (then 7-0). Cofer used control and superior wrestling to win a unanimous decision over Britain's Mark Glover (6-1).
James Vick (4-0)- Fighting out of Texas, Vick has only been a professional for 8 months. Has only fought relatively inexperienced fighters. Vick won an extremely boring split decision over Dakota Cochrane (9-2), probably because he was able to defend takedowns and had two very loose d'arce attempts. Vick is a tall fighter that normally would be able to utilize his reach in a stand-up fight.
Jeremy Larsen (8-2)- Arizona based fighter is a veteran of the Rage in the Cage promotion. Biggest win over Victor Meza (10-3). Larsen won a unanimous decision over Jeff Smith (9-1), surviving a knee bar, and doing more damage.
Chris Tickle (7-4) - Fighting out of Illinois, Tickle defeated longtime MMA veteran Brian Geraghty and UFC veteran Steve Berger in his last two bouts. Has a 5 fight win streak. Ticle and Austin Lyons (9-1) traded bombs standing, each eating a couple before Tickle dropped Lyons just 24 seconds into the round.
Al Iaquinta (5-1) - New York based fighter who has fought exclusively in the Ring of Combat organization. Lost via submission to UFC vet Pat Audinwood in last bout. 3 KO/TKO wins. Ianquita defeated John Tuck (6-0) via decision despite getting put in some precarious positions and escaping an arm bar. Tuck badly broke a toe in the bout which slowed him down in the final two minutes of the bout.
Chris Saunders (9-2)- Fighting out of California, Saunders lost a decision to Chris Horodecki in Bellator in his last bout. Prior to that fight, Saunders notched his biggest win with a KO over Cleber Luciano. Saunders narrowly defeated Dustin Hackett (4-1) in his opening match, latching onto two guillotine chokes, but failing to finish Hackett.
Andy Ogle (8-1)- Fighting out of Tynemouth, England, Ogle currently has a seven fight win streak. Defeated Shay Walsh (then 6-0) via decision in his last bout. Ogle fought Brenden Waefer (6-3) and won via unanimous decision, despite being stuck in a triangle for most of the 5 minutes.
In regards to the production value, I liked that they kept the rawness with no commentators during the fights just hearing from the coaches and Dana White. Dominick Cruz rarely spoke during the fights, only answering questions when asked. Urijah Faber basically gave away all his research and inside information on all the fighters.
Here is the cast list:
Justin Lawrence (3-0)- Fighting out of Missouri, "The American Kid" began his career with a decision over Max Martyniouk in Strikeforce Challengers in 2010. Notched a KO and submission to round out 2011. Lawrence trains out of Team Blackhouse using a karate based stand-up attack and solid speed. Lawrence took out WEC vet James Krause (15-4), landing kicks and punches before hitting a questionable knee then finishing the fight.
Vinc Pichel (7-0)- All of Pichel's 7 wins have been via TKO/KO, with his biggest victory over Dream veteran David Gardner. Pinchel got taken down in his opening fight and showed good grappling against Cody Pfister (6-3), getting a rear naked choke win in a back and forth fight.
Sam Sicilia (10-0)- Fighting out of Team Fancy Pants, Sicilia has 5 KO wins and 4 submissions, mainly fighting .500 fighters. Sam crushed Erin Beach (3-1) with an overhand right in just 8 seconds to earn is place on the cast.
Michael Chiesa (7-0)- Fighting out of Team Fancy Pants in Washington, Chiesa has 5 submission wins on his record. Hasn't fought the best competition, with his biggest win over Darcy James (then 4-3). Chiesa out grappled, threw decent ground and pound, and eventually choked out Johnavan Vistante (3-1) with a rear naked choke.
Cristiano Marcello (12-3)- The lone Brazilian in the field, Marcello is a black belt under Royler Gracie having also trained under Rickson Gracie. Marcello has 9 submissions in his career, including over TUF 8's David Kaplan. Marcello didn't show the most fluid stand-up, but transitioned quick to mount over a takedown, threw plenty of punches, then locked in the fight ending rear naked choke on Jeff Carlsten (3-0).
Myles Jury (9-0)- Jury was a contestant on TUF 13, however tore his ACL during a practice. The 5'10" King of the Cage fighter has fought exclusively at 170. Jury defeated Akbarh Arreola (19-6) using 3 takedowns and a solid ground game to stifle him.
Mike Rio (8-1)- The Wolverine's only loss was to TUF 8 champion, Efrain Escudero. Has quality wins over Zach Juusola (then 8-1) and Mike Bruno (10-4). Rio choked out Ali MacLean (9-5) in an exciting bout, with Rio eating a couple punches showing good boxing and excellent grappling.
Daron Cruickshank (10-2)- Fighting out of the MASH team in Michigan, Cruickshank is on a 4 fight win streak, including a decision over GSP training partner Mike Ricci and Brad Cardinal. Cruickshank, who holds a TKD black belt, used an impressive stand-up display with great kicks, combined with power wrestling to win a decision over Drew Dober (7-3).
Joe Proctor (7-1)- Fighting out of Massachusetts, Proctor is on a three fight win streak which includes victories over Matt Bessette (then 7-2) and Oz Pariser (then 4-0). Proctor finished a tournament favorite Jordan Rinaldi with a guillotine choke submission. Proctor looked decent standing, and got the choke off a scramble.
John Cofer (7-1)- Fighting out of Rory Singer's Hardcore Gym, Cofer last defeated Marius Cujba (then 7-0). Cofer used control and superior wrestling to win a unanimous decision over Britain's Mark Glover (6-1).
James Vick (4-0)- Fighting out of Texas, Vick has only been a professional for 8 months. Has only fought relatively inexperienced fighters. Vick won an extremely boring split decision over Dakota Cochrane (9-2), probably because he was able to defend takedowns and had two very loose d'arce attempts. Vick is a tall fighter that normally would be able to utilize his reach in a stand-up fight.
Jeremy Larsen (8-2)- Arizona based fighter is a veteran of the Rage in the Cage promotion. Biggest win over Victor Meza (10-3). Larsen won a unanimous decision over Jeff Smith (9-1), surviving a knee bar, and doing more damage.
Chris Tickle (7-4) - Fighting out of Illinois, Tickle defeated longtime MMA veteran Brian Geraghty and UFC veteran Steve Berger in his last two bouts. Has a 5 fight win streak. Ticle and Austin Lyons (9-1) traded bombs standing, each eating a couple before Tickle dropped Lyons just 24 seconds into the round.
Al Iaquinta (5-1) - New York based fighter who has fought exclusively in the Ring of Combat organization. Lost via submission to UFC vet Pat Audinwood in last bout. 3 KO/TKO wins. Ianquita defeated John Tuck (6-0) via decision despite getting put in some precarious positions and escaping an arm bar. Tuck badly broke a toe in the bout which slowed him down in the final two minutes of the bout.
Chris Saunders (9-2)- Fighting out of California, Saunders lost a decision to Chris Horodecki in Bellator in his last bout. Prior to that fight, Saunders notched his biggest win with a KO over Cleber Luciano. Saunders narrowly defeated Dustin Hackett (4-1) in his opening match, latching onto two guillotine chokes, but failing to finish Hackett.
Andy Ogle (8-1)- Fighting out of Tynemouth, England, Ogle currently has a seven fight win streak. Defeated Shay Walsh (then 6-0) via decision in his last bout. Ogle fought Brenden Waefer (6-3) and won via unanimous decision, despite being stuck in a triangle for most of the 5 minutes.
Video of the Day - Curran v. Warren HL
Here is the ending of the Pat Curran title victory over Joe Warren which took place at Bellator 60 on 3/9/12 at the Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, Indiana.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Video of the Day - Rinaldi v. Bermudez
Here is TUF 15 hopeful Jordan Rinaldi fighting TUF 14 runner-up Dennis Bermudez at PFC 4 which took place on 11/20/10 in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
Rinaldi will fight on March 9th to try to earn a spot in the TUF 15 house.
Rinaldi will fight on March 9th to try to earn a spot in the TUF 15 house.
TUF 15 Preview
On March 9th, season 15 of The Ultimate Fighter will kick off on its new home, FX, at its new time, 9PM. The coaches, who will battle for the bantamweight title at UFC 148, are Dominick Cruz and Urijah Faber. The cast will feature 32 lightweights.
(Dominick Cruz throwing a kick)
The fights will occur over 13 weeks, with each fight shown live. How this will impact the editing of the show is up in the air, as it is unknown exactly what will fill in time if there is a sub 30 second KO. Hopefully, there isn't a Jay Glazer interview to kill time.
(Urijah Faber with the FW belt)
The debut episode will be two and a half hours of live fights. The cast does have serious talent, with 9 undefeated fighters and several interesting veterans.
Here is the cast list:
Jon Tuck (6-0)- Fighting out of Guam, an island in the Pacific, Tuck is the only fighter to defeat Eduard Folayang (11-1). Has a purple belt in BJJ, with 3 TKO's and 3 submission wins.
Jordan Rinaldi (5-0)- Fighting out of North Carolina, Rinaldi notched his biggest win in a rear naked choke submission of TUF 14 runner-up Dennis Bermudez. Has four submission wins.
James Krause (15-4)- WEC/Shark Fights/Bellator veteran has victories over TUF runner-up Michael Johnson (10-6), Sean Wilson (30-17) and Ran Weathers (15-10).
Cristiano Marcello (12-3)- The lone Brazilian in the field, Marcello is a black belt under Royler Gracie having also trained under Rickson Gracie. Marcello has 9 submissions in his career, including over TUF 8's David Kaplan.
Akbarh Arreola (19-6) - California based fighter who has fought at 170 and 155, primarily in Mexico. Coming off a loss to Ronys Torres. Biggest wins over UFC vet Gabe Ruediger and Dream/M-1 vet David Gardner.
Dakota Cochrane (11-2)- Cochrane is a veteran of the Midwest MMA circuit, having notched his biggest win against former WEC champ Jamie Varner in the Titan Fighting Championship. Has beat other veterans Rod Montoya and Marcus LeVesseur (21-5).
Daron Cruickshank (10-2)- Fighting out of the MASH team in Michigan, Cruickshank is on a 4 fight win streak, including a decision over GSP training partner Mike Ricci and Brad Cardinal.
Chris Saunders (9-2)- Fighting out of California, Saunders lost a decision to Chris Horodecki in Bellator in his last bout. Prior to that fight, Saunders notched his biggest win with a KO over Cleber Luciano.
Myles Jury (9-0)- Jury was a contestant on TUF 13, however tore his ACL during a practice. The 5'10" King of the Cage fighter has fought exclusively at 170.
Sam Sicilia (10-0)- Fighting out of Team Fancy Pants, Sicilia has 5 KO wins and 4 submissions, mainly fighting .500 fighters.
Vinc Pichel (7-0)- All of Pichel's 7 wins have been via TKO/KO, with his biggest victory over Dream veteran David Gardner.
Michael Chiesa (7-0)- Fighting out of Team Fancy Pants in Washington, Chiesa has 5 submission wins on his record. Hasn't fought the best competition, with his biggest win over Darcy James (then 4-3).
Jared Carlsten (3-0)- The 6'1" Carlsten fights out of Los Angeles, with all three triangle victories. A brown belt at 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu, Carlsten's opponents have a combined record of 3-15.
James Vick (4-0)- Fighting out of Texas, Vick has only been a professional for 8 months. Has only fought relatively inexperienced fighters.
Justin Lawrence (3-0)- Fighting out of Missouri, "The American Kid" began his career with a decision over Max Martyniouk in Strikeforce Challengers in 2010. Notched a KO and submission to round out 2011.
Ali Maclean (9-5) - Fighting out of Belfast, Northern Ireland, Maclean has a five fight win streak. The "Insane One" has 7 submission wins and won a four man tournament in the Sprawl n Brawl: Revelation promotion. His biggest win was over TUF 9's Tommy Maguire (11-4).
Andy Ogle (8-1)- Fighting out of Tynemouth, England, Ogle currently has a seven fight win streak. Defeated Shay Walsh (then 6-0) via decision in his last bout.
Jeff Smith (9-1)- A former training partner of TUF 13 runner-up Dennis Bermudez, Smith has rattled off 9 straight wins since losing his debut.
Joe Proctor (7-1)- Fighting out of Massachusetts, Proctor is on a three fight win streak which includes victories over Matt Bessette (then 7-2) and Oz Pariser (then 4-0).
John Cofer (7-1)- Fighting out of Rory Singer's Hardcore Gym, Cofer last defeated Marius Cujba (then 7-0).
Mike Rio (8-1)- The Wolverine's only loss was to TUF 8 champion, Efrain Escudero. Has quality wins over Zach Juusola (then 8-1) and Mike Bruno (10-4).
Mark Glover (6-1)- The British fighter has a submission win over TUF 12's Aaron Wilkinson, with 5 total submissions on his record.
Jeremy Larsen (8-2)- Arizona based fighter is a veteran of the Rage in the Cage promotion. Biggest win over Victor Meza (10-3).
Chase Hackett (4-1)- The 6'1" Hackett fights out of Colorado with 3 rear naked choke wins on his resume. He won a decision over TUF 15 castmate Drew Dober.
Austin Lyons (9-1) - Fighting out of Tennessee, Lyons is on a 9 fight win streak, which includes 7 submissions. Defeated Jimmy Van Horn via arm bar at Bellator 38.
Chris Tickle (7-4) - Fighting out of Illinois, Tickle defeated longtime MMA veteran Brian Geraghty and UFC veteran Steve Berger in his last two bouts. Has a 5 fight win streak.
Drew Dober (7-3)- Dober is a Midwest fighter's biggest win is an arm triangle submission win in Bellator over Nick Nolte.
Cody Pfister (6-3)- Fighting out of Texas, Pfister has gone 5-0 in the Shark Fights promotion. In his last bout, Pfister won via TKO over Isais Martinez (then 8-3).
Al Iaquinta (5-1) - New York based fighter who has fought exclusively in the Ring of Combat organization. Lost via submission to UFC vet Pat Audinwood in last bout. 3 KO/TKO wins.
Brendan Weafer (6-3) - Fighting out of New York, NY, Weafer has 3 TKO/KO's.
Johnavan Vistante (3-1)- Hawaii based fighter has two submission wins and a TKO win on his resume.
Erin Beach (3-1)- Fighting out of San Diego, Beach notched his biggest win in Bellator over Roscoe Jackson.
(Dominick Cruz throwing a kick)
The fights will occur over 13 weeks, with each fight shown live. How this will impact the editing of the show is up in the air, as it is unknown exactly what will fill in time if there is a sub 30 second KO. Hopefully, there isn't a Jay Glazer interview to kill time.
(Urijah Faber with the FW belt)
The debut episode will be two and a half hours of live fights. The cast does have serious talent, with 9 undefeated fighters and several interesting veterans.
Here is the cast list:
Jon Tuck (6-0)- Fighting out of Guam, an island in the Pacific, Tuck is the only fighter to defeat Eduard Folayang (11-1). Has a purple belt in BJJ, with 3 TKO's and 3 submission wins.
Jordan Rinaldi (5-0)- Fighting out of North Carolina, Rinaldi notched his biggest win in a rear naked choke submission of TUF 14 runner-up Dennis Bermudez. Has four submission wins.
James Krause (15-4)- WEC/Shark Fights/Bellator veteran has victories over TUF runner-up Michael Johnson (10-6), Sean Wilson (30-17) and Ran Weathers (15-10).
Cristiano Marcello (12-3)- The lone Brazilian in the field, Marcello is a black belt under Royler Gracie having also trained under Rickson Gracie. Marcello has 9 submissions in his career, including over TUF 8's David Kaplan.
Akbarh Arreola (19-6) - California based fighter who has fought at 170 and 155, primarily in Mexico. Coming off a loss to Ronys Torres. Biggest wins over UFC vet Gabe Ruediger and Dream/M-1 vet David Gardner.
Dakota Cochrane (11-2)- Cochrane is a veteran of the Midwest MMA circuit, having notched his biggest win against former WEC champ Jamie Varner in the Titan Fighting Championship. Has beat other veterans Rod Montoya and Marcus LeVesseur (21-5).
Daron Cruickshank (10-2)- Fighting out of the MASH team in Michigan, Cruickshank is on a 4 fight win streak, including a decision over GSP training partner Mike Ricci and Brad Cardinal.
Chris Saunders (9-2)- Fighting out of California, Saunders lost a decision to Chris Horodecki in Bellator in his last bout. Prior to that fight, Saunders notched his biggest win with a KO over Cleber Luciano.
Myles Jury (9-0)- Jury was a contestant on TUF 13, however tore his ACL during a practice. The 5'10" King of the Cage fighter has fought exclusively at 170.
Sam Sicilia (10-0)- Fighting out of Team Fancy Pants, Sicilia has 5 KO wins and 4 submissions, mainly fighting .500 fighters.
Vinc Pichel (7-0)- All of Pichel's 7 wins have been via TKO/KO, with his biggest victory over Dream veteran David Gardner.
Michael Chiesa (7-0)- Fighting out of Team Fancy Pants in Washington, Chiesa has 5 submission wins on his record. Hasn't fought the best competition, with his biggest win over Darcy James (then 4-3).
Jared Carlsten (3-0)- The 6'1" Carlsten fights out of Los Angeles, with all three triangle victories. A brown belt at 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu, Carlsten's opponents have a combined record of 3-15.
James Vick (4-0)- Fighting out of Texas, Vick has only been a professional for 8 months. Has only fought relatively inexperienced fighters.
Justin Lawrence (3-0)- Fighting out of Missouri, "The American Kid" began his career with a decision over Max Martyniouk in Strikeforce Challengers in 2010. Notched a KO and submission to round out 2011.
Ali Maclean (9-5) - Fighting out of Belfast, Northern Ireland, Maclean has a five fight win streak. The "Insane One" has 7 submission wins and won a four man tournament in the Sprawl n Brawl: Revelation promotion. His biggest win was over TUF 9's Tommy Maguire (11-4).
Andy Ogle (8-1)- Fighting out of Tynemouth, England, Ogle currently has a seven fight win streak. Defeated Shay Walsh (then 6-0) via decision in his last bout.
Jeff Smith (9-1)- A former training partner of TUF 13 runner-up Dennis Bermudez, Smith has rattled off 9 straight wins since losing his debut.
Joe Proctor (7-1)- Fighting out of Massachusetts, Proctor is on a three fight win streak which includes victories over Matt Bessette (then 7-2) and Oz Pariser (then 4-0).
John Cofer (7-1)- Fighting out of Rory Singer's Hardcore Gym, Cofer last defeated Marius Cujba (then 7-0).
Mike Rio (8-1)- The Wolverine's only loss was to TUF 8 champion, Efrain Escudero. Has quality wins over Zach Juusola (then 8-1) and Mike Bruno (10-4).
Mark Glover (6-1)- The British fighter has a submission win over TUF 12's Aaron Wilkinson, with 5 total submissions on his record.
Jeremy Larsen (8-2)- Arizona based fighter is a veteran of the Rage in the Cage promotion. Biggest win over Victor Meza (10-3).
Chase Hackett (4-1)- The 6'1" Hackett fights out of Colorado with 3 rear naked choke wins on his resume. He won a decision over TUF 15 castmate Drew Dober.
Austin Lyons (9-1) - Fighting out of Tennessee, Lyons is on a 9 fight win streak, which includes 7 submissions. Defeated Jimmy Van Horn via arm bar at Bellator 38.
Chris Tickle (7-4) - Fighting out of Illinois, Tickle defeated longtime MMA veteran Brian Geraghty and UFC veteran Steve Berger in his last two bouts. Has a 5 fight win streak.
Drew Dober (7-3)- Dober is a Midwest fighter's biggest win is an arm triangle submission win in Bellator over Nick Nolte.
Cody Pfister (6-3)- Fighting out of Texas, Pfister has gone 5-0 in the Shark Fights promotion. In his last bout, Pfister won via TKO over Isais Martinez (then 8-3).
Al Iaquinta (5-1) - New York based fighter who has fought exclusively in the Ring of Combat organization. Lost via submission to UFC vet Pat Audinwood in last bout. 3 KO/TKO wins.
Brendan Weafer (6-3) - Fighting out of New York, NY, Weafer has 3 TKO/KO's.
Johnavan Vistante (3-1)- Hawaii based fighter has two submission wins and a TKO win on his resume.
Erin Beach (3-1)- Fighting out of San Diego, Beach notched his biggest win in Bellator over Roscoe Jackson.
Bellator Season 6 Preview
Bellator Season 6 will kick off on March 9th at the Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, Indiana. The star studded show will feature a featherweight title fight between Pat Curran and Joe Warren, with the featherweight tournament kicking off.
Tournaments will be held in the 185, 170, 155, 145 and 135 pound men's divisions this season. Each division will also hold title fights for previous tournament winners, except in the 155 pound division, which saw Michael Chandler defeat Eddie Alvarez in an epic battle at Bellator 58.
The rematch of the season 5 HW title fight between Eric Prindle (7-1) and Thiago Santos (10-1) will happen at BFC 61. At BFC 59, Santos kicked Prindle in the groin at 1:24 of the first round, and Prindle was unable to continue. The fight was ruled a no contest. The winner will fight season 3 champ Cole Konrad.
Middleweight (185)
The middleweight division will find defending champion Hector Lombard (31-2-1) fighting season five champ Alexander Shlemenko (44-7) in a rematch of their Bellator 34 match-up. Lombard, a judo blackbelt, and powerful striker, is on a 24 fight win streak. Shlemenko is a dynamic kickboxer who won the Bellator season 2 and 5 tournaments.
(Pic from Lombard v. Shlemenko I)
Season 6 MW Quarter-Finals begin at BFC 61 on March 16:
Brian Rogers (8-3) v Vitor Vianna (12-2-1)
Giva Santana (17-1) v Bruno Santos (12-0)
Victor O'Donnell (11-3) v Vyacheslav Vasilevsky (15-1)
Maiquel Falcão (28-4 1NC) v Norman Paraisy (10-1-1)
Welterweight (170)
The welterweight division will see champion Ben Askren (9-0) fighting season 5 tournament champ Douglas Lima (20-4) at Bellator 64. Askren, an NCAA champion and Olympic level wrestler, narrowly defeated Jay Hieron at Bellator 56 to defend his title which he captured with a win over Lyman Good. Lima won season 5's tournament with a decision over Steve Karl before brutally KO'ing Chris Lozano and UFC veteran Ben Saunders.
(Askren v. Ryan Thomas)
Season 6 WW Quarter-Finals begin at BFC 63 on March 30th:
Karl Amoussou (13-4-2) v Chris Lozano (9-2)
Raul Amaya (9-0) v Ben Saunders (12-4-2)
Brian Foster (18-5) v David Rickels (8-0)
Bryan Baker (16-3) v Carlos Alexandre Pereira (33-9-1)
Lightweight (155)
Michael Chandler (9-0), defeated Eddie Alvarez via fourth round rear naked choke at Bellator 58, will likely get a non-title fight during the Season 6. Chandler won the Season 4 lightweight tournament, defeating Marcin Held, Lloyd Woodard and Patricky Freire. Chandler was an All-American at Missouri before making his transition to MMA.
(Michael Chandler v. Eddie Alvarez pictured)
Season 6 LW Quarter-Finals begin at BFC 62 on March 23rd:
Patricky Freire (10-2) v Lloyd Woodard (11-1)
Rick Hawn (11-1) v Ricardo Tirloni (14-1)
J.J. Ambrose (17-3) v Brent Weedman (18-7-1)
Rene Nazare (10-1) v Thiago Michel (9-2)
Featherweight (145)
The featherweight division will see two title fights this season barring injury due to Joe Warren (7-2) attempting a run at the Season 5 bantamweight tournament. Warren, the season 2 champion, will fight Pat Curran (16-4) at Bellator 60. Curran won the summer series 145 pound championship, where he defeated Marlon Sandro, Ronnie Mann and Luis Palomino.
(Joe Warren v. Pat Curran Bellator promo pic)
The winner of the Joe Warren (7-2) and Pat Curran (16-4) will then fight Patricio 'Pitbull' Freire (17-1), who won the season 4 featherweight championship. Friere, a BJJ blackbelt and powerful Muay Thai striker, won season 4 by defeating Georgi Karakhanyan, Wilson Reis and Daniel Straus.
The Season 6 FW Quarter-Finals begin at BFC 60 on March 9th:
Marlon Sandro (20-3) v Roberto Vargas (12-1)
Alexandre Bezerra (12-1) v Genair da Silva (11-4)
Wagnney Fabiano (14-3) v Ronnie Mann (20-4-1)
Jeremy Spoon (12-0) v Daniel Straus (17-4)
Bantamweight (135)
Season 3 champion Zach Makovsky (14-2) will fight Season 5 champion Eduardo Dantas (13-2) for the bantamweight title. Makovsky has fought in two non-title fights since his season 3 championship, defeating Chad Robichaux via TKO and Ryan Roberts via submission. Dantas captured the season 5 title by defeating Wilson Reis, Ed West and Alexis Vila.
(Makovsky v. Robichaux pictured)
Quarter-Finals Participants, likely to begin at BFC 64:
Marcos Galvao (10-5-1)
Hiroshi Nakamura (14-5-4)
Masakatsu Ueda (14-1-2)
Alexis Vila (11-1)
Luis Nogueira (12-2)
Rodrigo Lima (9-0)
Ed West (17-6)
Travis Marx (18-3)
Tournaments will be held in the 185, 170, 155, 145 and 135 pound men's divisions this season. Each division will also hold title fights for previous tournament winners, except in the 155 pound division, which saw Michael Chandler defeat Eddie Alvarez in an epic battle at Bellator 58.
The rematch of the season 5 HW title fight between Eric Prindle (7-1) and Thiago Santos (10-1) will happen at BFC 61. At BFC 59, Santos kicked Prindle in the groin at 1:24 of the first round, and Prindle was unable to continue. The fight was ruled a no contest. The winner will fight season 3 champ Cole Konrad.
Middleweight (185)
The middleweight division will find defending champion Hector Lombard (31-2-1) fighting season five champ Alexander Shlemenko (44-7) in a rematch of their Bellator 34 match-up. Lombard, a judo blackbelt, and powerful striker, is on a 24 fight win streak. Shlemenko is a dynamic kickboxer who won the Bellator season 2 and 5 tournaments.
(Pic from Lombard v. Shlemenko I)
Season 6 MW Quarter-Finals begin at BFC 61 on March 16:
Brian Rogers (8-3) v Vitor Vianna (12-2-1)
Giva Santana (17-1) v Bruno Santos (12-0)
Victor O'Donnell (11-3) v Vyacheslav Vasilevsky (15-1)
Maiquel Falcão (28-4 1NC) v Norman Paraisy (10-1-1)
Welterweight (170)
The welterweight division will see champion Ben Askren (9-0) fighting season 5 tournament champ Douglas Lima (20-4) at Bellator 64. Askren, an NCAA champion and Olympic level wrestler, narrowly defeated Jay Hieron at Bellator 56 to defend his title which he captured with a win over Lyman Good. Lima won season 5's tournament with a decision over Steve Karl before brutally KO'ing Chris Lozano and UFC veteran Ben Saunders.
(Askren v. Ryan Thomas)
Season 6 WW Quarter-Finals begin at BFC 63 on March 30th:
Karl Amoussou (13-4-2) v Chris Lozano (9-2)
Raul Amaya (9-0) v Ben Saunders (12-4-2)
Brian Foster (18-5) v David Rickels (8-0)
Bryan Baker (16-3) v Carlos Alexandre Pereira (33-9-1)
Lightweight (155)
Michael Chandler (9-0), defeated Eddie Alvarez via fourth round rear naked choke at Bellator 58, will likely get a non-title fight during the Season 6. Chandler won the Season 4 lightweight tournament, defeating Marcin Held, Lloyd Woodard and Patricky Freire. Chandler was an All-American at Missouri before making his transition to MMA.
(Michael Chandler v. Eddie Alvarez pictured)
Season 6 LW Quarter-Finals begin at BFC 62 on March 23rd:
Patricky Freire (10-2) v Lloyd Woodard (11-1)
Rick Hawn (11-1) v Ricardo Tirloni (14-1)
J.J. Ambrose (17-3) v Brent Weedman (18-7-1)
Rene Nazare (10-1) v Thiago Michel (9-2)
Featherweight (145)
The featherweight division will see two title fights this season barring injury due to Joe Warren (7-2) attempting a run at the Season 5 bantamweight tournament. Warren, the season 2 champion, will fight Pat Curran (16-4) at Bellator 60. Curran won the summer series 145 pound championship, where he defeated Marlon Sandro, Ronnie Mann and Luis Palomino.
(Joe Warren v. Pat Curran Bellator promo pic)
The winner of the Joe Warren (7-2) and Pat Curran (16-4) will then fight Patricio 'Pitbull' Freire (17-1), who won the season 4 featherweight championship. Friere, a BJJ blackbelt and powerful Muay Thai striker, won season 4 by defeating Georgi Karakhanyan, Wilson Reis and Daniel Straus.
The Season 6 FW Quarter-Finals begin at BFC 60 on March 9th:
Marlon Sandro (20-3) v Roberto Vargas (12-1)
Alexandre Bezerra (12-1) v Genair da Silva (11-4)
Wagnney Fabiano (14-3) v Ronnie Mann (20-4-1)
Jeremy Spoon (12-0) v Daniel Straus (17-4)
Bantamweight (135)
Season 3 champion Zach Makovsky (14-2) will fight Season 5 champion Eduardo Dantas (13-2) for the bantamweight title. Makovsky has fought in two non-title fights since his season 3 championship, defeating Chad Robichaux via TKO and Ryan Roberts via submission. Dantas captured the season 5 title by defeating Wilson Reis, Ed West and Alexis Vila.
(Makovsky v. Robichaux pictured)
Quarter-Finals Participants, likely to begin at BFC 64:
Marcos Galvao (10-5-1)
Hiroshi Nakamura (14-5-4)
Masakatsu Ueda (14-1-2)
Alexis Vila (11-1)
Luis Nogueira (12-2)
Rodrigo Lima (9-0)
Ed West (17-6)
Travis Marx (18-3)
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Hand Touch KO
Well, here is a DQ win that I don't think anyone would want. Trying to exploit the rules to avoid kicks to the head is not always a good thing.
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Bobonis Defends Combate Extremo Title on March 24th
Pro MMA fighter Shah Bobonis will look to build on his four fight win streak on March 24, 2012, when he fights Rodolfo Rubio in the Combate Extremo promotion. The title fight will take place in Monterrey, Mexico.
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 with Shah and ask a few questions about his upcoming bout.
MMA Blaster: You haven't fought since your Bellator knockout victory over Marcos da Matta in September, how has training been going?
Bobonis: Yeah, I havent fought since September of last year. I was supposed to fight on the XFC in December of last year, but my opponent was injured nine days before the fight. My training for the March 24th Combate Extremo title defense has been going great.
MMA Blaster: What members of the FFA team have you been helping out?
Bobonis: We have a great group of small guys at FFA. The list includes Tulio Quintanilla who is also a Bellator veteran; Jason Soares, the FILA 2011 no-gi world champion at 65 kilos; Edwin Sarriar, the 125lbs WFO amateur champion; Edir Terry, a Karate black belt and great kickboxer; and my coaches are some of the best MMA minds in the game.
MMA Blaster: How frustrating is it to have scheduled fights fall through? Is it just part of the MMA game?
Bobonis: As far as fights falling through, I'm used to it. I don't make the same mistakes that I have made before. In the past, I would usually just take a short notice fight at a higher weight class. That accounts for half of my six losses. I'd say once a fight is signed you only have about a seventy percent chance of actually fighting the person originally scheduled, if you get to fight at all.
MMA Blaster: Judging by a video of your next opponent, he looks to have some grappling skill. How do you like to attack grappling oriented fighters?
Bobonis: I agree, Rubio does have decent BJJ. From looking at the tape, I think that is his strength. I plan on taking what he gives me. If he intends on grappling, I have no qualms pounding him out. There is no way I end up on my back in this fight. When punches and elbows are raining down, it's really hard to pull off a submission against a top level guy.
MMA Blaster: What do you like most about fighting in Mexico?
Bobonis: I really like Mexico, and fighting there presents a different challenge. When I fight in the United States there are many high level grapplers who have a huge hole in their striking game. Usually in Mexico it’s the reverse, on average I feel the top guys in Mexico have much better striking then most fighters in the US.
MMA Blaster: Would you like to get another fight in Bellator? Would you be willing to fill in and fight as an alternate in the season 6 tournaments? How do you think you would stack up to the fighters in last seasons Ultimate Fighter?
Bobonis: I’m ready to fight ANYONE in the world at 135 pounds. The best shows in the United States are Bellator and the UFC. Looking at the last season of the Ultimate Fighter reality show, I feel like most of the guys at bantamweight wouldn’t last two rounds with me. There are plenty of guys in the Bellator bantamweight tournament that I would love to fight. I have a good relationship with the south Florida matchmaking consultant for Bellator, so I hope to be on a Bellator card later this year.
MMA Blaster: Many fighters are embracing twitter, what are your thoughts on it? What is your twitter handle?
Bobonis: Twitter is great, I personally love it along with any other form of social media. For some guys I see how it could be a loaded gun with no safety. I have an MMA blog that comes out weekly on a few websites and I always post links to it on my Facebook and Twitter. I wish I was more tech savvy so I could do more. My Twitter handle is @shahbobonis.
MMA Blaster: What were your thoughts on the Diaz versus Condit fight? Who do you think won?
Bobonis: I think Condit clearly won by landing all the clean shots standing. Aggression is great, but it has to be effective aggression. Diaz wasn’t effective at all, he was countered all night. Another thing I’d like to touch on, how is Diaz so angry all the time? Most the people I know who smoke weed are pleasant and laid back. The Diaz brothers are the angriest pot heads I’ve ever seen.
MMA Blaster: Do you have any thank you's or shout-outs?
Bobonis: I want to thank FFA, Brawl and Maul, Trim Nutrition, MMA Solutions, MMA Athlete, all my training partners at FFA and my parents.
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 with Shah and ask a few questions about his upcoming bout.
MMA Blaster: You haven't fought since your Bellator knockout victory over Marcos da Matta in September, how has training been going?
Bobonis: Yeah, I havent fought since September of last year. I was supposed to fight on the XFC in December of last year, but my opponent was injured nine days before the fight. My training for the March 24th Combate Extremo title defense has been going great.
MMA Blaster: What members of the FFA team have you been helping out?
Bobonis: We have a great group of small guys at FFA. The list includes Tulio Quintanilla who is also a Bellator veteran; Jason Soares, the FILA 2011 no-gi world champion at 65 kilos; Edwin Sarriar, the 125lbs WFO amateur champion; Edir Terry, a Karate black belt and great kickboxer; and my coaches are some of the best MMA minds in the game.
MMA Blaster: How frustrating is it to have scheduled fights fall through? Is it just part of the MMA game?
Bobonis: As far as fights falling through, I'm used to it. I don't make the same mistakes that I have made before. In the past, I would usually just take a short notice fight at a higher weight class. That accounts for half of my six losses. I'd say once a fight is signed you only have about a seventy percent chance of actually fighting the person originally scheduled, if you get to fight at all.
MMA Blaster: Judging by a video of your next opponent, he looks to have some grappling skill. How do you like to attack grappling oriented fighters?
Bobonis: I agree, Rubio does have decent BJJ. From looking at the tape, I think that is his strength. I plan on taking what he gives me. If he intends on grappling, I have no qualms pounding him out. There is no way I end up on my back in this fight. When punches and elbows are raining down, it's really hard to pull off a submission against a top level guy.
MMA Blaster: What do you like most about fighting in Mexico?
Bobonis: I really like Mexico, and fighting there presents a different challenge. When I fight in the United States there are many high level grapplers who have a huge hole in their striking game. Usually in Mexico it’s the reverse, on average I feel the top guys in Mexico have much better striking then most fighters in the US.
MMA Blaster: Would you like to get another fight in Bellator? Would you be willing to fill in and fight as an alternate in the season 6 tournaments? How do you think you would stack up to the fighters in last seasons Ultimate Fighter?
Bobonis: I’m ready to fight ANYONE in the world at 135 pounds. The best shows in the United States are Bellator and the UFC. Looking at the last season of the Ultimate Fighter reality show, I feel like most of the guys at bantamweight wouldn’t last two rounds with me. There are plenty of guys in the Bellator bantamweight tournament that I would love to fight. I have a good relationship with the south Florida matchmaking consultant for Bellator, so I hope to be on a Bellator card later this year.
MMA Blaster: Many fighters are embracing twitter, what are your thoughts on it? What is your twitter handle?
Bobonis: Twitter is great, I personally love it along with any other form of social media. For some guys I see how it could be a loaded gun with no safety. I have an MMA blog that comes out weekly on a few websites and I always post links to it on my Facebook and Twitter. I wish I was more tech savvy so I could do more. My Twitter handle is @shahbobonis.
MMA Blaster: What were your thoughts on the Diaz versus Condit fight? Who do you think won?
Bobonis: I think Condit clearly won by landing all the clean shots standing. Aggression is great, but it has to be effective aggression. Diaz wasn’t effective at all, he was countered all night. Another thing I’d like to touch on, how is Diaz so angry all the time? Most the people I know who smoke weed are pleasant and laid back. The Diaz brothers are the angriest pot heads I’ve ever seen.
MMA Blaster: Do you have any thank you's or shout-outs?
Bobonis: I want to thank FFA, Brawl and Maul, Trim Nutrition, MMA Solutions, MMA Athlete, all my training partners at FFA and my parents.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
UFC on Fuel Highlights
The UFC on Fuel 1 show produced several highlights throughout the show. The Jake Ellenberger versus Diego Sanchez fight proved to be a barnburner, with Ellenberger getting off to a quick two rounds to nothing lead on the scorecards. However, Sanchez fired back, nearly getting a finish in the third frame.
Other exciting clashes included Stefan Struve's second round TKO over Dave Herman, and Ronny Markes split decision win over Aaron Simpson. Each victor had to overcome adversity as they clearly dropped the first rounds of their fights.
Apparently, shows on Fuel TV will release free highlight videos. Take a look.
Ellenberger v. Sanchez:
Struve v. Herman:
Markes v. Simpson
Here are the full results:
Jake Ellenberger def Diego Sanchez via unanimous dec
Stefan Struve def Dave Herman via TKO, R2, 3:52
Ronny Markes def Aaron Simpson via split dec
Stipe Miocic def Philip De Fries via KO (punches) R1, 0:43
T.J. Dillashaw def Walel Watson via unanimous dec
Ivan Menjivar def John Albert via submission (RNC) R1, 3:45
Jonathan Brookins def Vagner Rocha via KO (punches) R1, 1:32
Justin Salas def Anton Kuivanen via unanimous dec
Tim Means def Bernado Magalhaes vis unanimous dec
Other exciting clashes included Stefan Struve's second round TKO over Dave Herman, and Ronny Markes split decision win over Aaron Simpson. Each victor had to overcome adversity as they clearly dropped the first rounds of their fights.
Apparently, shows on Fuel TV will release free highlight videos. Take a look.
Ellenberger v. Sanchez:
Struve v. Herman:
Markes v. Simpson
Here are the full results:
Jake Ellenberger def Diego Sanchez via unanimous dec
Stefan Struve def Dave Herman via TKO, R2, 3:52
Ronny Markes def Aaron Simpson via split dec
Stipe Miocic def Philip De Fries via KO (punches) R1, 0:43
T.J. Dillashaw def Walel Watson via unanimous dec
Ivan Menjivar def John Albert via submission (RNC) R1, 3:45
Jonathan Brookins def Vagner Rocha via KO (punches) R1, 1:32
Justin Salas def Anton Kuivanen via unanimous dec
Tim Means def Bernado Magalhaes vis unanimous dec
Video of the Day - Menjivar v. Albert
Here is a condensed version of the Ivan Menjivar versus John Albert fight from UFC on Fuel 1 which took place on 2/15/12 at the Omaha Civic Auditorium in Omaha, Nebraska.
The fight earned one fighter a submission of the night bonus.
The fight earned one fighter a submission of the night bonus.
Video of the Day - Miocic v. De Fries
Here is Stipe Miocic fighting Philip De Fries from UFC on Fuel 1 which took place on 2/15/12 at the Omaha Civic Auditorium.
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Video of the Day - Varner v. Fickett
Here is Jamie Varner fighting Drew Fickett at XFC 16 - High Stakes, which took place on 2/10/12 in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Sunday, February 5, 2012
Video of the Day - Condit v. Tanaka
Here is Carlos Condit fighting Tatsunori Tanaka at Pancrase Blow 9, which took place on 10/25/06 at the Korakuen Hall in Tokyo, Japan. Head stomps and soccer kicks were legal under that Pancrase rule set.
Condit narrowly defeated Nick Diaz for the interim welterweight title at UFC 143.
Condit narrowly defeated Nick Diaz for the interim welterweight title at UFC 143.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Video of the Day - Tate v. Coolbaugh
Here is Meisha "Takedown" Tate fighting Valerie Coolbaugh in Freestyle Cage Fighting 38 which took place on 1/16/10 in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Tate will defend her 135 pound Strikeforce women's belt against Ronda Rousey on Saturday, March 3rd.
Tate will defend her 135 pound Strikeforce women's belt against Ronda Rousey on Saturday, March 3rd.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Video of the Day - Manhoef v. Akiyama
Here is Melvin Manhoef fighting Yoshihiro Akiyama in K1 Hero's 7 which took place on 10/9/06.
Akiyama fights next at UFC 144 this Saturday.
Akiyama fights next at UFC 144 this Saturday.
Video of the Day - Fickett v. Veach
Here is Drew Fickett fighting Matt Veach at MFC 28 which took place on 2/28/11 in Alberta, Canada.
Fickett (41-16) has had an interesting career, notching high level wins over Josh Koscheck, Dennis Hallman, Kenny Florian, Kurt Pellegrino, Josh Neer and Dennis Bermudez. His life outside the cage has been interesting, as he has battled problems with alcohol.
Fickett will fight former WEC champ Jamie Varner at XFC 16 tonight, which airs live on HDNet.
Fickett (41-16) has had an interesting career, notching high level wins over Josh Koscheck, Dennis Hallman, Kenny Florian, Kurt Pellegrino, Josh Neer and Dennis Bermudez. His life outside the cage has been interesting, as he has battled problems with alcohol.
Fickett will fight former WEC champ Jamie Varner at XFC 16 tonight, which airs live on HDNet.
Monday, January 30, 2012
Video of the Day - Diaz v. Sakurai
Here is Hayato Sakurai fighting Nick Diaz in Dream 14 which took place on 5/29/10 in Saitama, Japan.
Nick Diaz has supposedly retired following his decision loss to Carlos Condit at UFC 143.
Nick Diaz has supposedly retired following his decision loss to Carlos Condit at UFC 143.
Monday, January 2, 2012
Video of the Day - Daley v. Shirai
Here is Paul Daley fighting Yuya Shirai in Bamma 5 which took place on 2/26/2011 in Manchester, UK.
Daley will next fight Kazuo Misaki this Saturday in Strikeforce.
Daley will next fight Kazuo Misaki this Saturday in Strikeforce.
Video of the Day - Nurmagomedov v. Khalilov
Here is Khabib Nurmagomedov fighting Said Khalilov at ProFC 14 which took place on 4/9/11 in Rostov Oblast, Russia.
Nurmagomedov (16-0) is a recent signing of the UFC having won the world sambo championships three times. He makes his promotional debut against Kamal Shalorus at UFC on FX 1.
Nurmagomedov (16-0) is a recent signing of the UFC having won the world sambo championships three times. He makes his promotional debut against Kamal Shalorus at UFC on FX 1.
Video of the Day - Kikuno v. Nagashima
Here is a mixed rules fight between karate fighter Katsunori Kikuno and Yuichiro Nagashima which took place in the Dream organizations "Fight For Japan: Genki Desu Ka! New Year! 2011," event at the Saitama Super Arena, Saitama, Japan, on 12/31/11.
The first round was fought under K-1 kickboxing rules while the second was under Dream's MMA rules. As you will see, it was a pretty crazy scrap.
The first round was fought under K-1 kickboxing rules while the second was under Dream's MMA rules. As you will see, it was a pretty crazy scrap.
Video of the Day - Fernandes v. Banuelos
Here is Bibiano Fernandes fighting Antonio Banuelos for the Dream Bantamweight Grand Prix Finale which took place on 12/31/11 in the Saitama Super Arena.
Fernandes defeated Takafumi Otsuka and Rodolfo Marques Diaz to reach the final. Banuelos defeated Hideo Tokoro and Masakazu Imanari to reach the final.
Fernandes defeated Takafumi Otsuka and Rodolfo Marques Diaz to reach the final. Banuelos defeated Hideo Tokoro and Masakazu Imanari to reach the final.
Video of the Day - Goodridge v. Barry
Here is Pat Barry v. Gary Goodridge in a 2007 K-1 quarterfinal fight. Barry has transitioned well to MMA earning a 2-1 record in the UFC.
Pat will fight Christian Morecraft at UFC on FX 1 tonight.
Pat will fight Christian Morecraft at UFC on FX 1 tonight.
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Bas "El Guapo" Rutten - MMA Legend
Like many, the first time I discovered how great Bas Rutten (28-4) was came after watching his performance in UFC. Bas Rutten has had a long and storied history. He initially decided to get into martial arts after seeing Bruce Lee in Enter the Dragon. He started in Tae Kwon Do and then Kyokushin Karate. In his twenties, Bas started doing Muay Thai, and started his career with 14 straight KO victories.
Bas' next stop was in the Pancrase organization. His lack of ground game were pretty much the only reason he suffered his four losses, all before 1995. After honing the ground game, Bas was able to win the King of Pancrase three times. He won over Frank Shamrock, Minouru Suzuki and Masakatsu Funaki.
When he came to the UFC he captured the heavyweight crown over Kevin Randleman in a very controversial decision. His previous UFC bout was a slug it out victory over Tsuyoshi "TK" Kohsaka. Bas' other notable victories are over Yoshiki Takahashi, 3X stoppages of Jason Delucia, Guy Mezger, 2 subs of Maurice Smith, Manabu Yamada and various wins over other Japanese veterens. Watch out for the liver shot!
*The old Pancrase rules allowed for palm strikes to the head while standing and no strikes on the ground.
Bas' next stop was in the Pancrase organization. His lack of ground game were pretty much the only reason he suffered his four losses, all before 1995. After honing the ground game, Bas was able to win the King of Pancrase three times. He won over Frank Shamrock, Minouru Suzuki and Masakatsu Funaki.
When he came to the UFC he captured the heavyweight crown over Kevin Randleman in a very controversial decision. His previous UFC bout was a slug it out victory over Tsuyoshi "TK" Kohsaka. Bas' other notable victories are over Yoshiki Takahashi, 3X stoppages of Jason Delucia, Guy Mezger, 2 subs of Maurice Smith, Manabu Yamada and various wins over other Japanese veterens. Watch out for the liver shot!
*The old Pancrase rules allowed for palm strikes to the head while standing and no strikes on the ground.
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