Here is Lyoto Machida fighting Mark Munoz at UFC Fight Night - Machida v. Munoz which took place on 10/26/13 in Manchester, England.
Machida (22-5) has career victories over Shogun Rua, Randy Couture, Gegard Mousasi and Rashad Evans. He next fights Luke Rockhold at UFC on Fox 15.
Fox Main Card
Lyoto Machida vs. Luke Rockhold
Chris Camozzi vs. Ronaldo Souza
Max Holloway vs. Cub Swanson
Felice Herrig vs. Paige VanZant
Beneil Dariush vs. Jim Miller
Patrick Cummins vs. Ovince Saint Preux
Corey Anderson vs. Gian Villante
Aljamain Sterling vs. Takeya Mizugaki
Fight Pass Card
Tim Means vs. George Sullivan
Diego Brandao vs. Jimy Hettes
Chris Dempsey vs. Eddie Gordon
Showing posts with label Lyoto Machida. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Lyoto Machida. Show all posts
Tuesday, April 14, 2015
Thursday, February 6, 2014
Video of the Day - Machida v. Franklin
Here is a fight between Lyoto Machida and Rich Franklin back in New Years Eve 2003. At the time, Machida was 2-0 and Franklin was 12-0. The fight took place at the Inoki Bom-Ba-Ye - Inoki Festival in Kobe Wing Stadium in Japan.
Machida (20-4) will next fight Gegard Mousasi (34-3-2) at UFC Fight Night 36, which takes place in Santa Catarina, Brazil. A win by Machida could push him into title contention.
Machida (20-4) will next fight Gegard Mousasi (34-3-2) at UFC Fight Night 36, which takes place in Santa Catarina, Brazil. A win by Machida could push him into title contention.
Sunday, January 20, 2013
UFC Ultimate Ultimate 2013
I recently got an email regarding who the best 10 fighters are in the UFC if there were no weight classes. That got me in the mood of the mid 90's and I began to construct a tournament of my own.
Since there are athletic commissions now, I have instituted one tournament for above 206 pound fighters and another for 185 and under. I'm playing UFC's match-maker Joe Silva's job, so only Zuffa fighters under contract are eligible, sorry Josh Barnett.
The emailer thought that Jon Jones could beat almost every heavyweight UFC, but some might be able to "get their fat" on them. Jones would come in as the fastest 235 or so and would likely have a reach advantage on most. I would think a big grappler who could get on the inside and force the clinch could have success on Jones.
I have seeded with current actual UFC match-ups in mind. Since we are in 2013, the tournament would run over 4 events over the course of a year.
UU 13 - Open Weight 206+
1. Cain Velasquez- 11-1, Current UFC HW Champ
16. Rashad Evans- 17-2-1, UFC LHW Champ
8. Stefan Struve- 25-5, 9-3 UFC
9. Mark Hunt- 8-7, K-1 GP Champ
5. Daniel Cormier- 10-0, SF HW Champ
12. Frank Mir- 16-6, former UFC HW champ
4. Alistair Overeem- 36-11, SF/Dream/K-1 WH Champ
13. Antonio "Bigfoot" Silva- 17-4, Elite XC Champ
3. Junior Dos Santos- 15-2, UFC HW Champ
14. Phil Davis- 10-1, NCAA Champ
6. Fabricio Werdum- 16-5, ADCC 99KG+ Champ
11. Antonio Noguiera- 34-7-1, Pride HW Champ
7. Dan Henderson-29-8, Pride Champ
10. Lyoto Machida- 18-3, UFC LHW Champ
15. Chael Sonnen- 27-12-1, rightful WEC MW Champ
2. Jon Jones- 17-1, Current UFC LHW Champ
Since there are athletic commissions now, I have instituted one tournament for above 206 pound fighters and another for 185 and under. I'm playing UFC's match-maker Joe Silva's job, so only Zuffa fighters under contract are eligible, sorry Josh Barnett.
The emailer thought that Jon Jones could beat almost every heavyweight UFC, but some might be able to "get their fat" on them. Jones would come in as the fastest 235 or so and would likely have a reach advantage on most. I would think a big grappler who could get on the inside and force the clinch could have success on Jones.
I have seeded with current actual UFC match-ups in mind. Since we are in 2013, the tournament would run over 4 events over the course of a year.
UU 13 - Open Weight 206+
1. Cain Velasquez- 11-1, Current UFC HW Champ
16. Rashad Evans- 17-2-1, UFC LHW Champ
8. Stefan Struve- 25-5, 9-3 UFC
9. Mark Hunt- 8-7, K-1 GP Champ
5. Daniel Cormier- 10-0, SF HW Champ
12. Frank Mir- 16-6, former UFC HW champ
4. Alistair Overeem- 36-11, SF/Dream/K-1 WH Champ
13. Antonio "Bigfoot" Silva- 17-4, Elite XC Champ
3. Junior Dos Santos- 15-2, UFC HW Champ
14. Phil Davis- 10-1, NCAA Champ
6. Fabricio Werdum- 16-5, ADCC 99KG+ Champ
11. Antonio Noguiera- 34-7-1, Pride HW Champ
7. Dan Henderson-29-8, Pride Champ
10. Lyoto Machida- 18-3, UFC LHW Champ
15. Chael Sonnen- 27-12-1, rightful WEC MW Champ
2. Jon Jones- 17-1, Current UFC LHW Champ
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Steven Seagal Talks Lyoto Machida Win
The below video features Aol's Ariel Hawani interviewing Steven Seagal and his feelings towards Lyoto Machida's amazing front kick KO of Randy Couture at UFC 129.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Video of the Day - Machida v. McDonald
Here is Lyoto Machida against K-1 kickboxing legend Michael McDonald from K-1 Hero's which took place on 3/14/04. Lyoto faces Randy Couture at UFC 129.
*You don't see many forearm chokes in MMA.
*You don't see many forearm chokes in MMA.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
UFC 123 - Return to Detroit
UFC 123 will mark the UFC's first return to Detroit since the odd UFC 9 event which featured no closed fist strikes. At that time, just about everything else was legal, including having a 400 pound sumo wrestler fight a 185 pounder. Footnote- Mark Hall crushed Koji Kitao in 40 seconds after breaking his nose.
This event will feature a bigtime fight between enigmatic Lyoto "The Dragon" Machida (16-1) and Quinton "Rampage" Jackson (30-8). Rampage has promised that he is rejuvinated, hoping to channel his Pride Fighting days when he fought more for the love of the game than the money. Word out of the Machida camp points to Lyoto being extremely focused since his first loss suffered at the hands of Shogun Rua.
Rampage brought raw power and energy to the fight game when he burst on the scene in Pride, slamming and crushing just about everyone in sight. When he came to the UFC, he quickly met Chuck Liddell, knocking out the Iceman and claiming the title. He then became grounded, losing the title in a sluggish performance against Forrest Griffin and an apprehensive performance against Rashad Evans.
(Rampage KO's Liddell in Pride)
Lyoto's rise to stardom came first in the Japanese fighting circuit when he used a head kick and punches to TKO Rich Franklin, choked out K-1 star Michael McDonald and scored a decision win over BJ Penn. He soon came to the UFC, where he notched several decision victories, rarely getting hit. In 2009, Machida came into his own, KO'ing Thiago Silva, then Rashad Evans to capture the title.
(Lyoto Machida)
Look for Machida to use his Shotokan Karate style to keep his distance on Rampage. Rampage will stalk Machida, trying to unload his power punches. Rampage will have to try to cut off angles and get a takedown or two to win the fight. The question is, will he eat too many Machida counter strikes before he can do that.
Penn v. Hughes 3 is the co-main event, and should be as exciting as the previous two bouts the men have split. In the first match-up, Penn (15-7)was able to control Hughes (45-7) and use a rear naked choke to win the fight and the belt in the first round. In the second, Hughes seemed to over-power and out-cardio Penn, using a crucifix and punches in the third round to secure a TKO win.
(BJ Penn)
I expect Matt Hughes to utilize the takedown early and often to try to get the fight to the mat and unleash ground and pound. Hughes will again have the power and wrestling advantage in this fight. Penn will try to keep the fight standing, using his superior striking and keeping the distance. Penn does not want to get in the clinch in this fight. While Penn has the BJJ advantage, I don't think he will be using it other than to get up off his back.
(Matt Hughes)
TUF 5 vet Joe Lauzon fights TUF 6 vet George Sotiropoulos (13-2) in a lightweight scrap for a step closer to a number 1 contender match. Sotiropoulous has been on a tear as of late, using his reach during his stand-up and using excellent control on the ground. George with a perfect 6-0 UFC record has wins over Kurt Pelligrino, Joe Stevenson, Jason Dent and George Roop in his last four fights.
Joe Lauzon (19-5) is a gritty fighter with a solid overall game. When Lauzon is aggressive is when he looks his best. In his last performance, Lauzon absolutely steamrolled Gabe Rudieger. Joe has other UFC wins against Jens Pulver, Jeremy Stephens and Kyle Bradley.
MAIN CARD
Quinton Jackson v Lyoto Machida
Matt Hughes v B.J. Penn
Joe Lauzon v George Sotiropoulos
Tim Boetsch v Phil Davis
Maiquel Falcao v Gerald Harris
SPIKE TV CARD
Matt Brown v Brian Foster
Mark Munoz v Aaron Simpson
PRELIM CARD
Dennis Hallman v Karo Parisyan
Edson Barboza v Mike Lullo
Paul Kelly v T.J. O'Brien
Nik Lentz v Tyson Griffin
This event will feature a bigtime fight between enigmatic Lyoto "The Dragon" Machida (16-1) and Quinton "Rampage" Jackson (30-8). Rampage has promised that he is rejuvinated, hoping to channel his Pride Fighting days when he fought more for the love of the game than the money. Word out of the Machida camp points to Lyoto being extremely focused since his first loss suffered at the hands of Shogun Rua.
Rampage brought raw power and energy to the fight game when he burst on the scene in Pride, slamming and crushing just about everyone in sight. When he came to the UFC, he quickly met Chuck Liddell, knocking out the Iceman and claiming the title. He then became grounded, losing the title in a sluggish performance against Forrest Griffin and an apprehensive performance against Rashad Evans.
(Rampage KO's Liddell in Pride)
Lyoto's rise to stardom came first in the Japanese fighting circuit when he used a head kick and punches to TKO Rich Franklin, choked out K-1 star Michael McDonald and scored a decision win over BJ Penn. He soon came to the UFC, where he notched several decision victories, rarely getting hit. In 2009, Machida came into his own, KO'ing Thiago Silva, then Rashad Evans to capture the title.
(Lyoto Machida)
Look for Machida to use his Shotokan Karate style to keep his distance on Rampage. Rampage will stalk Machida, trying to unload his power punches. Rampage will have to try to cut off angles and get a takedown or two to win the fight. The question is, will he eat too many Machida counter strikes before he can do that.
Penn v. Hughes 3 is the co-main event, and should be as exciting as the previous two bouts the men have split. In the first match-up, Penn (15-7)was able to control Hughes (45-7) and use a rear naked choke to win the fight and the belt in the first round. In the second, Hughes seemed to over-power and out-cardio Penn, using a crucifix and punches in the third round to secure a TKO win.
(BJ Penn)
I expect Matt Hughes to utilize the takedown early and often to try to get the fight to the mat and unleash ground and pound. Hughes will again have the power and wrestling advantage in this fight. Penn will try to keep the fight standing, using his superior striking and keeping the distance. Penn does not want to get in the clinch in this fight. While Penn has the BJJ advantage, I don't think he will be using it other than to get up off his back.
(Matt Hughes)
TUF 5 vet Joe Lauzon fights TUF 6 vet George Sotiropoulos (13-2) in a lightweight scrap for a step closer to a number 1 contender match. Sotiropoulous has been on a tear as of late, using his reach during his stand-up and using excellent control on the ground. George with a perfect 6-0 UFC record has wins over Kurt Pelligrino, Joe Stevenson, Jason Dent and George Roop in his last four fights.
Joe Lauzon (19-5) is a gritty fighter with a solid overall game. When Lauzon is aggressive is when he looks his best. In his last performance, Lauzon absolutely steamrolled Gabe Rudieger. Joe has other UFC wins against Jens Pulver, Jeremy Stephens and Kyle Bradley.
MAIN CARD
Quinton Jackson v Lyoto Machida
Matt Hughes v B.J. Penn
Joe Lauzon v George Sotiropoulos
Tim Boetsch v Phil Davis
Maiquel Falcao v Gerald Harris
SPIKE TV CARD
Matt Brown v Brian Foster
Mark Munoz v Aaron Simpson
PRELIM CARD
Dennis Hallman v Karo Parisyan
Edson Barboza v Mike Lullo
Paul Kelly v T.J. O'Brien
Nik Lentz v Tyson Griffin
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
UFC 104 - Dragon Fire
I waited to release my review of this event until I watched the Lyoto Machida versus Shogun Rua fight again. After five lackluster but technically impressive fight was won by Lyoto Machida on all three score cards. However, the viewing audience, Joe Rogaine and myself all saw it for Shogun.
Here are the results:
Lyoto Machida def Shogun Rua via unanimous dec- This title fight has turned controversial following all three judges awarding the fight to champion Lyoto Machida with 48-47. Throughout the fight Shogun seemed to land hard leg and body kicks. Machida seemed to back peddle and throw punches.
The body and leg kicks thrown by the more aggressive Rua led to me believing he had won the 1st, 4th and 5th rounds. Rua continually controlled where the fight to place and was consistently showing better aggression. Machida did gets some nice punces in at times, but seemed to never get into rhythem.
Dana White has indicated both fighters have agreed to an immediate rematch. Unfortunately, Machida suffered a laceration to his lip and was suspended without contact for 60 days. Look for the fight to possibly take place in February.
*MMA Blaster readers correctly choose Machida 90-27
Cain Velasquez def Ben Rothwell via TKO (punches) R2, 0:58- Cain Velasquez bullied the larger Ben Rothwell, eventually knocking him senseless in the second round. Velasquez dominated Rothwell with his superior wrestling and power punching from the ground.
The victory would have seemed to earn Cain a title shot. However, champ Brock Lesnar suffered an illness pushing back his fight with Shane Carwin. It appears Velasquez could fight Junior Dos Santos next.
Joe Stevenson def Spencer Fisher via TKO (elbows) R1, 4:03- Joe Stevenson continues his rise back up to the top of his game since joining Team Jackson. The submission grappler knew his best shot at victory would be to get the fight to the ground. Fisher was able to deny Stevenson's takedowns for a little while before succeeding.
Once the fight was on the ground, Stevenson was able to get Fisher's arm trapped in a crucifix, reminiscant of the Roy Nelson versus Kimbo fight. Elbows came in bunches and the ref was forced to stop the fight.
(Joe Stevenson pictured)
Anthony Johnson def Yoshiyuki Yoshida via KO (punch) R1, 0:41- Anthony Johnson sacrificed some pay for missing weight in this contest, but he didn't sacrifice his performance. Johnson briefly attempted to clinch, backed out and crushed Yoshida with a right hand knocking him into another universe and ending the fight.
Pat Barry def Antoni Hardonk by TKO (punches) R2, 2:30- In what turned out to be the fight of the night, Pat Barry and Antoni Hardonk threw down in an absolute battle. Hardonk started the action landing some big leg kicks and big punches. Barry looked to use his quickness, before Barry then was struck deep in the eye by Hardonk.
After a brief injury time out, Barry began to find his range with straight punches. Barry dropped Hardonk with a jab, landing in side mount dropping additional punishment. In the second round, Barry's speed was too much for Hardonk as he dropped him with straight punches before the finisher, a right hand to Hardonk's temple.
*Barry wins Fight of the Night and KO of the Night Bonus
(Pat Barry pictured)
Stefan Struve def Chase Gormley via sub (triangle) R1, 4:04- After the gigantic Struve landed some big kicks, Gormley worked the fight to the ground. From there, the two attempted leg locks. After Struve got top position he worked for a triangle and leaned to his back, getting Gormley to succumb to the choke.
*Struve wins Submission of the Night Bonus
Gleison Tibau def Josh Neer via unanimous dec
Ryan Bader def Eric Schafer by unanimous dec
Chael Sonnen def Yushin Okami via unanimous dec
Jorge Rivera def Rob Kimmons via TKO (punches) R3, 1:53
Kyle Kingsbury def Razak Al-Hassan via split dec
Here are the results:
Lyoto Machida def Shogun Rua via unanimous dec- This title fight has turned controversial following all three judges awarding the fight to champion Lyoto Machida with 48-47. Throughout the fight Shogun seemed to land hard leg and body kicks. Machida seemed to back peddle and throw punches.
The body and leg kicks thrown by the more aggressive Rua led to me believing he had won the 1st, 4th and 5th rounds. Rua continually controlled where the fight to place and was consistently showing better aggression. Machida did gets some nice punces in at times, but seemed to never get into rhythem.
Dana White has indicated both fighters have agreed to an immediate rematch. Unfortunately, Machida suffered a laceration to his lip and was suspended without contact for 60 days. Look for the fight to possibly take place in February.
*MMA Blaster readers correctly choose Machida 90-27
Cain Velasquez def Ben Rothwell via TKO (punches) R2, 0:58- Cain Velasquez bullied the larger Ben Rothwell, eventually knocking him senseless in the second round. Velasquez dominated Rothwell with his superior wrestling and power punching from the ground.
The victory would have seemed to earn Cain a title shot. However, champ Brock Lesnar suffered an illness pushing back his fight with Shane Carwin. It appears Velasquez could fight Junior Dos Santos next.
Joe Stevenson def Spencer Fisher via TKO (elbows) R1, 4:03- Joe Stevenson continues his rise back up to the top of his game since joining Team Jackson. The submission grappler knew his best shot at victory would be to get the fight to the ground. Fisher was able to deny Stevenson's takedowns for a little while before succeeding.
Once the fight was on the ground, Stevenson was able to get Fisher's arm trapped in a crucifix, reminiscant of the Roy Nelson versus Kimbo fight. Elbows came in bunches and the ref was forced to stop the fight.
(Joe Stevenson pictured)
Anthony Johnson def Yoshiyuki Yoshida via KO (punch) R1, 0:41- Anthony Johnson sacrificed some pay for missing weight in this contest, but he didn't sacrifice his performance. Johnson briefly attempted to clinch, backed out and crushed Yoshida with a right hand knocking him into another universe and ending the fight.
Pat Barry def Antoni Hardonk by TKO (punches) R2, 2:30- In what turned out to be the fight of the night, Pat Barry and Antoni Hardonk threw down in an absolute battle. Hardonk started the action landing some big leg kicks and big punches. Barry looked to use his quickness, before Barry then was struck deep in the eye by Hardonk.
After a brief injury time out, Barry began to find his range with straight punches. Barry dropped Hardonk with a jab, landing in side mount dropping additional punishment. In the second round, Barry's speed was too much for Hardonk as he dropped him with straight punches before the finisher, a right hand to Hardonk's temple.
*Barry wins Fight of the Night and KO of the Night Bonus
(Pat Barry pictured)
Stefan Struve def Chase Gormley via sub (triangle) R1, 4:04- After the gigantic Struve landed some big kicks, Gormley worked the fight to the ground. From there, the two attempted leg locks. After Struve got top position he worked for a triangle and leaned to his back, getting Gormley to succumb to the choke.
*Struve wins Submission of the Night Bonus
Gleison Tibau def Josh Neer via unanimous dec
Ryan Bader def Eric Schafer by unanimous dec
Chael Sonnen def Yushin Okami via unanimous dec
Jorge Rivera def Rob Kimmons via TKO (punches) R3, 1:53
Kyle Kingsbury def Razak Al-Hassan via split dec
Monday, May 25, 2009
UFC 98 Ka-Da-Tay
Karate is officially back in style as Lyoto Machida systematically picked apart Rashad Evans at this weekends UFC 98 to take the Light Heavyweight Crown. Machida is not the first karate practicioner to win the 205 belt, as future UFC Hall of Famer and Kenpo Karate expert Chuck Liddell dominated the 205 pound division before the belt began to change hands.
Lyoto Machida def Rashad Evans via KO (Punches) R2, 3:57- Lyoto Machida dominated this fights as he has in his 15 career victories. Lyoto was able to keep Rashad Evans at a distance, then capitalize when he saw an opening.
In the first, Lyoto was able to score a knockdown off a body kick, back up, then punch the face. Lyoto picked up his pace in the second round, landing kicks and punches before setting up his final push. Lyoto at a couple punches but unloaded a fury with a head kick and several punches before landing an uppercut that sent Rashad into the cage fence seeing stars.
Lyoto will likely face Rampage Jackson in his next bout. Hopefully they are not put in TUF 10 as coaches as it will put both fighter on the shelf for 7 months or more. MMA Blaster's readers were correct in predicting Lyoto Machida would win 66-49.
(Lyoto Machida pictured)
Results:
Frankie Edgar def Sean Sherk via Dec (Unanimous)
Chael Sonnen def Dan Miller via Dec (Unanimous)
Drew McFedries def Xavier Foupa-Pokam via TKO (Punches) R1, 0:37
Matt Hughes def Matt Serra via Dec(Unanimous)
Brock Larson def Mike Pyle via sub (arm-triangle) R1, 3:06
Tim Hague def Pat Barry via sub (guillotine) R1, 1:43
Kyle Bradley def Phillipe Nover via TKO (strikes) R1, 1:03
Krzysztof Soszynski def Andre Gusmao via TKO (strikes) R1, 3:17
Yoshiyuki Yoshida def Brandon Wolff via sub (guillotine) R1, 2:24
George Roop def David Kaplan via split dec
Lyoto Machida def Rashad Evans via KO (Punches) R2, 3:57- Lyoto Machida dominated this fights as he has in his 15 career victories. Lyoto was able to keep Rashad Evans at a distance, then capitalize when he saw an opening.
In the first, Lyoto was able to score a knockdown off a body kick, back up, then punch the face. Lyoto picked up his pace in the second round, landing kicks and punches before setting up his final push. Lyoto at a couple punches but unloaded a fury with a head kick and several punches before landing an uppercut that sent Rashad into the cage fence seeing stars.
Lyoto will likely face Rampage Jackson in his next bout. Hopefully they are not put in TUF 10 as coaches as it will put both fighter on the shelf for 7 months or more. MMA Blaster's readers were correct in predicting Lyoto Machida would win 66-49.
(Lyoto Machida pictured)
Results:
Frankie Edgar def Sean Sherk via Dec (Unanimous)
Chael Sonnen def Dan Miller via Dec (Unanimous)
Drew McFedries def Xavier Foupa-Pokam via TKO (Punches) R1, 0:37
Matt Hughes def Matt Serra via Dec(Unanimous)
Brock Larson def Mike Pyle via sub (arm-triangle) R1, 3:06
Tim Hague def Pat Barry via sub (guillotine) R1, 1:43
Kyle Bradley def Phillipe Nover via TKO (strikes) R1, 1:03
Krzysztof Soszynski def Andre Gusmao via TKO (strikes) R1, 3:17
Yoshiyuki Yoshida def Brandon Wolff via sub (guillotine) R1, 2:24
George Roop def David Kaplan via split dec
Saturday, May 2, 2009
UFC 98 Preview
UFC 98 takes place this Saturday, May 23rd, in the MGM Grand Garden Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. The card includes a main event of undefeated young stars Rashad Evans against karate ace Lyoto Machida. In the co-main event, arch rivals and former UFC Welterweight champs Matt Hughes and Matt Serra will square off.
MAIN CARD
Rashad Evans vs. Lyoto Machida- This fight is for the light heavyweight championship. Current 205 pound champ Rashad Evans won the belt over Forrest Griffin by pounding out Forrest for a third round TKO. Rashad, a former Michigan State wrestler will likely try to close the distance with Lyoto to utilize his wrestling base. On the other hand, "Sugar" Rashad may try to slug it out with Machida.
Rashad (16-0-1, 8-0-1 UFC) was the Ultimate Fighter season 2 Heavyweight champion. Rashad needed to win four times for the TUF 2 title, defeating Tom Murphy, Mike Whitehead and Keith Jardine before beating Brad Imes in a slugfest. In UFC competition, Rashad owns KO wins over Chuck Liddell, Jason Lambert and Sean Salmon. Rashad has decision victories over Micheal Bisping and Sam Hoger.
(Rashad Evans pictured above)
Lyoto Machida (14-0, 6-0 UFC) is a karate based fighter that has also excelled in sumo and Brazilian jiu jitsu. He reportedly earned his Shotokan Karate black belt at age 13 and recently got a back belt in BJJ. The elusive fighter is able to keep distance and counter punch very effectively. He will look to counter Rashad's takedowns and get Rashad moving forward. Before entering the UFC, Machida defeated Rich Franklin, Michael McDonald and BJ Penn. In the UFC he has defeated Thiago Silva,Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou and Tito Ortiz.
(Lyoto Machida pictured above)
Matt Hughes vs. Matt Serra- This fight pits TUF 6 coaches and rivals Matt Hughes against Matt Serra. Matt Hughes is widely regarded as one of the best 170 pounders of all time, defeating some of the best in the game. Matt Serra is more known for his grappling credentials, but his defining moment was a knock out of Georges St. Pierre. Both fighters have real distain for one another, that built during TUF 4 and continued to TUF 6.
Matt Hughes (42-7, 15-5 UFC) used his wrestling base from Eastern Illinois University to transfer to mixed martial arts. He began his career fighting in small shows in Iowa before being asked to fight at UFC 22. After a decision victory against Valeri Ignatov, Hughes continued to hone his craft in smaller shows running up big winning streaks. Hughes has career victories over Joe Doerkson, Hayato Sakurai, Sean Sherk, Dave Menne, Akhiro Gono, Frank Trigg and Royce Gracie. He also has a split with BJ Penn and won once over Georges St. Pierre.
(Matt Hughes pictured)
Matt Serra (9-5, 6-5 UFC) is a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Renzo Gracie. He used his talents to place second in the ADCC and 1st in the 1999 Pan Am Games. Getting in the UFC, he notched early victories over Yves Edwards, Jeff Curran and Ivan Menjivar. After losing to Karo Parisyan, Serra took a spot on TUF 4 Comeback. Serra was able to beat Pete Spratt and avenge a loss to Shonie Carter before defeating Chris Lytle in the finals. From there, Serra would defeat Georges St. Pierre in one of the biggest upsets in UFC history. Since then, he lost a rematch to St. Pierre and dealt with injuries.
(Matt Serra pictured)
Xavier Foupa-Pokam vs. Drew McFedries- This slugfest will likely end before the end of the first round. The loser will likely be cut from the UFC. Professor X (20-10, 0-1 UFC) will have to use his kickboxing skills to maintain distance on McFedries and pick him apart. McFedries (7-5, 3-4 UFC) will have to close the distance, get in the clinch and land power shots.
Dan Miller vs. Chael Sonnen- Former 185 pound IFL champ Dan Miller (11-1, 3-0 UFC) will take on pseudo 185 pound WEC champ Chael Sonnen (21-10, 1-3 UFC). Both fighters are excellent wrestlers, but the edge in the submission game goes to Miller. Look for Sonnen to get the fight to the ground, and Miller to look for a submission. Miller has UFC victories against Jake Rosholt, Rob Kimmons and Matt Horwich.
Frank Edgar vs. Sean Sherk- This fight puts two excellent wrestlers against each other. However, the edge in the strength game probably goes to Sean Sherk (33-3, 7-3 UFC), who is notorious for crazy workouts. Sherk is a one time 155 pound champ in the UFC, holding victories against Kenny Florian, Nick Diaz, Hermes Franca and Benji Radach. Frank Edgar (9-1, 4-1 UFC) is a non-stop energy fighter who holds victories over Tyson Griffin, Spencer Fisher and Hermes Franca.
PRELIMINARY CARD
Brock Larson vs. Chris Wilson
Pat Barry vs. Tim Hague
Kyle Bradley vs. Phillipe Nover
Andre Gusmao vs. Krzysztof Soszynski
Brandon Wolff vs. Yoshiyuki Yoshida
David Kaplan vs. George Roop
MAIN CARD
Rashad Evans vs. Lyoto Machida- This fight is for the light heavyweight championship. Current 205 pound champ Rashad Evans won the belt over Forrest Griffin by pounding out Forrest for a third round TKO. Rashad, a former Michigan State wrestler will likely try to close the distance with Lyoto to utilize his wrestling base. On the other hand, "Sugar" Rashad may try to slug it out with Machida.
Rashad (16-0-1, 8-0-1 UFC) was the Ultimate Fighter season 2 Heavyweight champion. Rashad needed to win four times for the TUF 2 title, defeating Tom Murphy, Mike Whitehead and Keith Jardine before beating Brad Imes in a slugfest. In UFC competition, Rashad owns KO wins over Chuck Liddell, Jason Lambert and Sean Salmon. Rashad has decision victories over Micheal Bisping and Sam Hoger.
(Rashad Evans pictured above)
Lyoto Machida (14-0, 6-0 UFC) is a karate based fighter that has also excelled in sumo and Brazilian jiu jitsu. He reportedly earned his Shotokan Karate black belt at age 13 and recently got a back belt in BJJ. The elusive fighter is able to keep distance and counter punch very effectively. He will look to counter Rashad's takedowns and get Rashad moving forward. Before entering the UFC, Machida defeated Rich Franklin, Michael McDonald and BJ Penn. In the UFC he has defeated Thiago Silva,Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou and Tito Ortiz.
(Lyoto Machida pictured above)
Matt Hughes vs. Matt Serra- This fight pits TUF 6 coaches and rivals Matt Hughes against Matt Serra. Matt Hughes is widely regarded as one of the best 170 pounders of all time, defeating some of the best in the game. Matt Serra is more known for his grappling credentials, but his defining moment was a knock out of Georges St. Pierre. Both fighters have real distain for one another, that built during TUF 4 and continued to TUF 6.
Matt Hughes (42-7, 15-5 UFC) used his wrestling base from Eastern Illinois University to transfer to mixed martial arts. He began his career fighting in small shows in Iowa before being asked to fight at UFC 22. After a decision victory against Valeri Ignatov, Hughes continued to hone his craft in smaller shows running up big winning streaks. Hughes has career victories over Joe Doerkson, Hayato Sakurai, Sean Sherk, Dave Menne, Akhiro Gono, Frank Trigg and Royce Gracie. He also has a split with BJ Penn and won once over Georges St. Pierre.
(Matt Hughes pictured)
Matt Serra (9-5, 6-5 UFC) is a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Renzo Gracie. He used his talents to place second in the ADCC and 1st in the 1999 Pan Am Games. Getting in the UFC, he notched early victories over Yves Edwards, Jeff Curran and Ivan Menjivar. After losing to Karo Parisyan, Serra took a spot on TUF 4 Comeback. Serra was able to beat Pete Spratt and avenge a loss to Shonie Carter before defeating Chris Lytle in the finals. From there, Serra would defeat Georges St. Pierre in one of the biggest upsets in UFC history. Since then, he lost a rematch to St. Pierre and dealt with injuries.
(Matt Serra pictured)
Xavier Foupa-Pokam vs. Drew McFedries- This slugfest will likely end before the end of the first round. The loser will likely be cut from the UFC. Professor X (20-10, 0-1 UFC) will have to use his kickboxing skills to maintain distance on McFedries and pick him apart. McFedries (7-5, 3-4 UFC) will have to close the distance, get in the clinch and land power shots.
Dan Miller vs. Chael Sonnen- Former 185 pound IFL champ Dan Miller (11-1, 3-0 UFC) will take on pseudo 185 pound WEC champ Chael Sonnen (21-10, 1-3 UFC). Both fighters are excellent wrestlers, but the edge in the submission game goes to Miller. Look for Sonnen to get the fight to the ground, and Miller to look for a submission. Miller has UFC victories against Jake Rosholt, Rob Kimmons and Matt Horwich.
Frank Edgar vs. Sean Sherk- This fight puts two excellent wrestlers against each other. However, the edge in the strength game probably goes to Sean Sherk (33-3, 7-3 UFC), who is notorious for crazy workouts. Sherk is a one time 155 pound champ in the UFC, holding victories against Kenny Florian, Nick Diaz, Hermes Franca and Benji Radach. Frank Edgar (9-1, 4-1 UFC) is a non-stop energy fighter who holds victories over Tyson Griffin, Spencer Fisher and Hermes Franca.
PRELIMINARY CARD
Brock Larson vs. Chris Wilson
Pat Barry vs. Tim Hague
Kyle Bradley vs. Phillipe Nover
Andre Gusmao vs. Krzysztof Soszynski
Brandon Wolff vs. Yoshiyuki Yoshida
David Kaplan vs. George Roop
Monday, February 2, 2009
UFC 94 Review
UFC 94 turned out to be a decent show with great top billed fights. With an estimated 14,855 people showing up at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. I watched the fights on ppv and will be interested to see how many ppv buys the event had. GSP v. Penn has been hyped since last year and my guess is that the advertising dollars paid off.
Clay Guida def Nathan Diaz via Dec (Split)- Guida came to the fight with a high energy and smothering style to win the split decision. Diaz was able to land some heavy strikes and knees, but couldn't get anything really going. Guida won the fight by being able to get Diaz' back, get takedowns and better position. Guida now has three straight wins since his loss to Roger Huerta.
*Guida and Diaz win Fight of the Night.
Karo Parisyan def Dong Hyun Kim via Dec (Split)- In my opinion, Kim got the short hand of the stick in this fight. Kim won the first round by getting Karo's back, throwing down hammerfists, and almost getting Karo stuck in a Kim triangle choke. The first round that was decisive as the second and third round were very hard to score. I would give the second to Karo and the third to Kim. In dropping the decision, Kim learned a lesson not let the fight go to the judges scorecards.
Jon Jones def Stephan Bonnar via Dec (Unanimous)- Jon "Bones" Jones looked athletic and unorthodox in his second straight win in the UFC pushing his record to 8-0. Jones landed a suplex in the first while trying to get Bonnar's back. Jones also connected with a spinning back elbow and a vicious knee. Jones didn't let up, tossing Bonnar to the mat, getting takedowns at will, and throwing good knees throughout the fight to win the unanimous decision. With some more training and experience, Jones will continue to progress and develop into a force.
Lyoto Machida def Thiago Silva via KO (Punches) R1, 4:59- Machida took his time early on before connecting with a kick and knee to the body. After a brief time for a knee to the groin, Machida was able to land consistent combinations and takedowns. Right before the end of the round, Machida landed a left right combination and dove in for one more punch. Absorbing the impact, Silva is out for the count as the ref called the fight. Machida did a good job silencing his critics as he systematically took Silva apart.
*Machida wins KO of the Night.
Georges St. Pierre def B.J. Penn via TKO (Corner Stoppage) R4, 5:00- GSP simply overwelmed BJ Penn en route to an eventual TKO at the end of the fourth round. St. Pierre was able to dominate the fight with takedowns, ground and pound and connecting on his feet. BJ almost was able to get a couple submission attempts going, but they never really came close. BJ ate way too many elbows and punches in the fourth and when he went to the corner they called the fight.
GSP is now a lock for the UFC Hall of Fame. He has five straight wins including over Matt Hughes for the interim title, Matt Serra to unify the title, and defending against Jon Fitch and BJ Penn. A fight with Thiago Alves looms, as well as speculation of a potential fight with Anderson Silva.
UNDERCARD
Dan Cramer def Matt Arroyo via Dec (Split)
Jake O'Brien def Christian Wellisch via Dec (Split)
Thiago Tavares def Manny Gamburyan via Dec (Unanimous)
Jon Fitch def Akihiro Gono via Dec (Unanimous)
John Howard def Chris Wilson via Dec (Split)- Won the second fight of the night bonus.
Clay Guida def Nathan Diaz via Dec (Split)- Guida came to the fight with a high energy and smothering style to win the split decision. Diaz was able to land some heavy strikes and knees, but couldn't get anything really going. Guida won the fight by being able to get Diaz' back, get takedowns and better position. Guida now has three straight wins since his loss to Roger Huerta.
*Guida and Diaz win Fight of the Night.
Karo Parisyan def Dong Hyun Kim via Dec (Split)- In my opinion, Kim got the short hand of the stick in this fight. Kim won the first round by getting Karo's back, throwing down hammerfists, and almost getting Karo stuck in a Kim triangle choke. The first round that was decisive as the second and third round were very hard to score. I would give the second to Karo and the third to Kim. In dropping the decision, Kim learned a lesson not let the fight go to the judges scorecards.
Jon Jones def Stephan Bonnar via Dec (Unanimous)- Jon "Bones" Jones looked athletic and unorthodox in his second straight win in the UFC pushing his record to 8-0. Jones landed a suplex in the first while trying to get Bonnar's back. Jones also connected with a spinning back elbow and a vicious knee. Jones didn't let up, tossing Bonnar to the mat, getting takedowns at will, and throwing good knees throughout the fight to win the unanimous decision. With some more training and experience, Jones will continue to progress and develop into a force.
Lyoto Machida def Thiago Silva via KO (Punches) R1, 4:59- Machida took his time early on before connecting with a kick and knee to the body. After a brief time for a knee to the groin, Machida was able to land consistent combinations and takedowns. Right before the end of the round, Machida landed a left right combination and dove in for one more punch. Absorbing the impact, Silva is out for the count as the ref called the fight. Machida did a good job silencing his critics as he systematically took Silva apart.
*Machida wins KO of the Night.
Georges St. Pierre def B.J. Penn via TKO (Corner Stoppage) R4, 5:00- GSP simply overwelmed BJ Penn en route to an eventual TKO at the end of the fourth round. St. Pierre was able to dominate the fight with takedowns, ground and pound and connecting on his feet. BJ almost was able to get a couple submission attempts going, but they never really came close. BJ ate way too many elbows and punches in the fourth and when he went to the corner they called the fight.
GSP is now a lock for the UFC Hall of Fame. He has five straight wins including over Matt Hughes for the interim title, Matt Serra to unify the title, and defending against Jon Fitch and BJ Penn. A fight with Thiago Alves looms, as well as speculation of a potential fight with Anderson Silva.
UNDERCARD
Dan Cramer def Matt Arroyo via Dec (Split)
Jake O'Brien def Christian Wellisch via Dec (Split)
Thiago Tavares def Manny Gamburyan via Dec (Unanimous)
Jon Fitch def Akihiro Gono via Dec (Unanimous)
John Howard def Chris Wilson via Dec (Split)- Won the second fight of the night bonus.
Friday, January 9, 2009
UFC 94 Preview
UFC 94 kicks off this Saturday, January 31st at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. The BJ Penn v. GSP fight is being hyped up as the Superbowl of MMA. We will see how the card plays out, hopefully Machida is feeling peppy. All fighters made weight, with former heavyweights Christian Wellish and Jake O'Brien debuting at 205 pounds.
MAIN CARD
Georges St. Pierre vs. B.J. Penn- This fight is being hyped as the fight of the year. The undisputed king of the 170 pound class versus the king of the 155 pound class. In addition, this is a rematch of a match from UFC 58 where BJ lost a close split decision. I would expect to see GSP go for the takedown early and often. The question in this fight may come down to whether or not BJ can get a submission off his back.
Since a crazy upset loss to Matt Serra, Georges St. Pierre has been on quite a streak. He has outwrestled Josh Koscheck, armbarred Matt Hughes and punished Matt Serra and Jon Fitch since that loss. Georges is an incredible athlete, with suberb striking, cardio and wrestling ability. Georges also holds wins over Jay Hieron, Sean Sherk, Mayhem Miller and Frank Trigg.
(Georges St. Pierre pictured)
Since a disappointing loss to Matt Hughes at UFC 63, BJ Penn reinvented himself at 155, dominating his competition. He won over Jens Pulver following TUF 5, then crushed Joe Stevenson for the interim 155 pound title. He then went on to outstrike and eventually TKO Sean Sherk to unify the 155 pound title. BJ will be looking to strike with GSP and possibly go for a submission. If BJ has one clear advantage, it would be in the submission game. BJ also has wins over Duane Ludwig, Takanori Gomi, and Caol Uno.
(BJ Penn pictured)
Lyoto Machida vs. Thiago Silva- Someone's undefeated status will be loss against in this battle for the number one contender spot at 205 pounds. Machida is a karate and BJJ black-belt who utilizes a countering style that frustrates many opponents. Silva, who owns a great ground game rarely uses it. Silva instead uses his heavy hand to knock his opponents out.
I expect this fight to remain standing, with Machida waiting to capitalize on a Silva mistake. Machida is 13-0 with victories over Rich Franklin, Stephan Bonnar and BJ Penn outside the UFC. He holds wins over Sokoudjou, Tito Ortiz, Kazuhiro Nakamura, David Heath and Sam Hoger inside the UFC.
(Lyoto Machida pictured)
Thiago Silva (13-0) has ten knockouts and two submission wins in his career. He has beaten Antonio Mendes, Houston Alexander, Tomasz Drwal and James Irvin in the UFC. I expect Silva to try to get in close on Machida to throw punches in the clinch.
Stephan Bonnar vs. Jon Jones
Karo Parisyan vs. Dong Hyun Kim
Nate Diaz vs. Clay Guida
UNDER CARD
Jon Fitch vs. Akihiro Gono
Manny Gamburyan vs. Thiago Tavares
John Howard vs. Chris Wilson
Jake O'Brien vs. Christian Wellisch
Matt Arroyo vs. Dan Cramer
MAIN CARD
Georges St. Pierre vs. B.J. Penn- This fight is being hyped as the fight of the year. The undisputed king of the 170 pound class versus the king of the 155 pound class. In addition, this is a rematch of a match from UFC 58 where BJ lost a close split decision. I would expect to see GSP go for the takedown early and often. The question in this fight may come down to whether or not BJ can get a submission off his back.
Since a crazy upset loss to Matt Serra, Georges St. Pierre has been on quite a streak. He has outwrestled Josh Koscheck, armbarred Matt Hughes and punished Matt Serra and Jon Fitch since that loss. Georges is an incredible athlete, with suberb striking, cardio and wrestling ability. Georges also holds wins over Jay Hieron, Sean Sherk, Mayhem Miller and Frank Trigg.
(Georges St. Pierre pictured)
Since a disappointing loss to Matt Hughes at UFC 63, BJ Penn reinvented himself at 155, dominating his competition. He won over Jens Pulver following TUF 5, then crushed Joe Stevenson for the interim 155 pound title. He then went on to outstrike and eventually TKO Sean Sherk to unify the 155 pound title. BJ will be looking to strike with GSP and possibly go for a submission. If BJ has one clear advantage, it would be in the submission game. BJ also has wins over Duane Ludwig, Takanori Gomi, and Caol Uno.
(BJ Penn pictured)
Lyoto Machida vs. Thiago Silva- Someone's undefeated status will be loss against in this battle for the number one contender spot at 205 pounds. Machida is a karate and BJJ black-belt who utilizes a countering style that frustrates many opponents. Silva, who owns a great ground game rarely uses it. Silva instead uses his heavy hand to knock his opponents out.
I expect this fight to remain standing, with Machida waiting to capitalize on a Silva mistake. Machida is 13-0 with victories over Rich Franklin, Stephan Bonnar and BJ Penn outside the UFC. He holds wins over Sokoudjou, Tito Ortiz, Kazuhiro Nakamura, David Heath and Sam Hoger inside the UFC.
(Lyoto Machida pictured)
Thiago Silva (13-0) has ten knockouts and two submission wins in his career. He has beaten Antonio Mendes, Houston Alexander, Tomasz Drwal and James Irvin in the UFC. I expect Silva to try to get in close on Machida to throw punches in the clinch.
Stephan Bonnar vs. Jon Jones
Karo Parisyan vs. Dong Hyun Kim
Nate Diaz vs. Clay Guida
UNDER CARD
Jon Fitch vs. Akihiro Gono
Manny Gamburyan vs. Thiago Tavares
John Howard vs. Chris Wilson
Jake O'Brien vs. Christian Wellisch
Matt Arroyo vs. Dan Cramer
Saturday, May 24, 2008
UFC 84 ILL WILL Review
UFC 84 lived up to all the hype as all the fights broadcast were entertaining. Quick knockouts, submissions, the end of Tito Ortiz' UFC legacy, and the cementing of BJ Penn's UFC legacy. This was the best card of the year featured a whopping nine fights on the broadcast.
BJ Penn def. Sean Sherk via TKO, R3 5:00- This fight made the card the best so far this year. Excellent three round stand-up battle. BJ and Sherk boxed the duration of the bout as Sherk tried to get only a couple takedowns. BJ attempted one which did not land. BJ landed strong snapping jabs, damaging Sherk's face repetitively through the night. You really didn't know how hard the jabs were landing until they showed Sherk's face afterwards.
Sherk threw haymakers and attempted to get inside throughout the fight, but they mainly missed or were blocked. You could hear by snapping sounds that Sherk's punches were strong. They end came with seconds left in the third, as BJ landed a beautiful combo dazing Sherk which was followed by a flying knee and strikes. The bell sounded and Sherk looked as if he didn't know he had been saved by the bell. With Sherk still dazed and BJ looking on, the ref did the smart thing and called the fight. Afterwards, BJ was respectful and invited Sherk to Hawaii to train with him.
*MMA Blaster pollsters correct 23-9 Penn.
Lyoto Machida def. Tito Ortiz via unanimous decision (all 30-27)- Lyoto fought an elusive yet snapping karate style. Machida hit Tito's legs with kicks all through the fight. Some of the high kicks looked to almost sneak in. Machida was able to get a takedown on Ortiz and deny all Tito's takedown attempts. Machida's big hit was a crushing knee to Tito's liver in the third. Tito was crumpled, and looked to be in serious trouble as Machida rained down strikes. In dramatic fashion, Tito came very close to getting a triangle with seconds left, and then arm-bar. Lyoto, didn't tap and got the victory.
*Lyoto's striking style and excellent takedown defense will frustrate wrestlers, ground fighters, and aggressive stand-up fighters.
*During a long post fight interview, Tito said he will be fighting for another 3-4 years.
*Tito's shirt said, "I did it my way." A sharp contrast from the weigh-in shirt, "Dana White is my Bitch."
Wanderlei Silva def. Keith Jardine via TKO, R1 :36- Jardine came out to a crazy bag pipe song while Wanderlei opted up tempo Zombie Nation. Silva landed some absolutely nasty strikes in this bout. Jardine threw a leg kick that was perfectly countered by Silva, as a shot landed flush on Jardine's face. Jardine was hurt and Wandy took advantage pouncing and throwing more bombs. Jardine's eye's rolled back, and it was a little scary for a second, but Jardine eventually walked out under his own power.
*UFC KO of the night bonus.
Thiago Silva def. Antonio Mendes via TKO, R1 2:24- Mendes came out with a huge head kick that nearly knocked Silva out, despite Silva slightly blocking the kick. While dazed, Silva stayed calm and weathered Mendes' storm. After a takedown, Silva got an opening and threw down massive bombs connecting with Mendes' face, forcing a Herb Dean stoppage.
Goran Reljic def. Wilson Gouveia via TKO, R2 3:15- The 24 year old Reljic has been hyped quite a bit regarding his striking and undefeated record. From the start of the bout, Reljic threw powerful kicks to the head and body of Gouveia. At the end of the first, Gouveia came back with some flurry's of punches to Reljic that seemed to give him the momentum.
In the second Gouveia seemed to get the best of it standing, got a takedown and had Reljic near the end of his rope. After a scramble, Reljic landed a massive left hand, then a barrage of hammerfists and punches forcing a TKO stoppage.
*UFC Fight of the night bonus given to both fighters.
Rousimar Palhares vs. Ivan Salaverry via sub. (armbar), R1 2:36- This fight was shown after Wanderlei's quick knockout of Jardine. Palhares got a good body lock throw takedown on Salaverry to start things out. Palahares was textbook as he went from sidemount, mount, rear naked choke attempt to arm bar finish.
*UFC submission of the night.
Yoshiyuki Yoshida def. John Koppenhaver via sub. (anaconda choke), R1 :56- We were able to see this fight after the BJ Penn fight. Yoshida got a judo throw to a gator roll anaconda choke. Herb Dean saw that War Machine lost consciousness and was out of commission. He made the right move calling the bout. Yoshida did not have much to say afterwards and actually seemed confused that Joe Rogan would want to ask him questions.
Shane Carwin def. Christian Wellisch via KO, R1 :43- We actually got to see this fight on the ppv and dang!!! Carwin dropped Wellish at 43 seconds in the first round with a vicious right straight directly to the chin. Wellish's mouthpiece shot out of his mouth bouncing off the canvas as Wellish's body hit the ground seconds later. The stands were pretty empty at this point and the fans should feel bad for missing such a nasty KO. I don't understand why fans miss the opening fights.
Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou def. Kazuhiro Nakamura via TKO(leg injury), R1 5:00- Sokoudjou dished out quite a bit of leg kick variations smashing Nakamura's legs. He seemed to pack some power behind the shots. Near the 4th minute Sokoudjou seemed to fade and favor a taped knee. After one of the shots landed and dropped, Nakamura's knee seemed to buckle. The bout was called shortly thereafter. Nakamura wasn't knocked out, but the injury was too much for the ref to allow him to continue.
Rich Clementi def. Terry Etim via unanimous decision- not broadcast
Dong-Hyun Kim def. Jason Tan via TKO (elbows) R3, :25- not broadcast
*David Spade was there and was holding a mini-whiskey bottle, probably Jack Daniels.
*The Rock was there was extremely pearly whites.
*Shaq was in full in attendence. I wouldn't want to be seated behind Shaq.
*Former UFC Heavyweight Champ and Celebrity Rehab castmate Ricco Rodriguez was in Tito's corner.
*Laura Prepon from that 70's Show was seated next to Spade.
*Mandy Moore was there with some hot hot friends.
*The first hour saw less than 20 minutes of fight time, but 9 fights made the broadcast.
*Steve Mazzagati ref'd without the moustache
*In the crowd was Urijah Faber whom Joe Rogan interviewed. Apparently Urijah went to Hawaii to train. WEC got some press during the ppv. Jens seemed excited and ready to go. Versus got quite a bit of advertising.
*As usual, tons of filler and advertising.
*Actor Jason Statham was .
BJ Penn def. Sean Sherk via TKO, R3 5:00- This fight made the card the best so far this year. Excellent three round stand-up battle. BJ and Sherk boxed the duration of the bout as Sherk tried to get only a couple takedowns. BJ attempted one which did not land. BJ landed strong snapping jabs, damaging Sherk's face repetitively through the night. You really didn't know how hard the jabs were landing until they showed Sherk's face afterwards.
Sherk threw haymakers and attempted to get inside throughout the fight, but they mainly missed or were blocked. You could hear by snapping sounds that Sherk's punches were strong. They end came with seconds left in the third, as BJ landed a beautiful combo dazing Sherk which was followed by a flying knee and strikes. The bell sounded and Sherk looked as if he didn't know he had been saved by the bell. With Sherk still dazed and BJ looking on, the ref did the smart thing and called the fight. Afterwards, BJ was respectful and invited Sherk to Hawaii to train with him.
*MMA Blaster pollsters correct 23-9 Penn.
Lyoto Machida def. Tito Ortiz via unanimous decision (all 30-27)- Lyoto fought an elusive yet snapping karate style. Machida hit Tito's legs with kicks all through the fight. Some of the high kicks looked to almost sneak in. Machida was able to get a takedown on Ortiz and deny all Tito's takedown attempts. Machida's big hit was a crushing knee to Tito's liver in the third. Tito was crumpled, and looked to be in serious trouble as Machida rained down strikes. In dramatic fashion, Tito came very close to getting a triangle with seconds left, and then arm-bar. Lyoto, didn't tap and got the victory.
*Lyoto's striking style and excellent takedown defense will frustrate wrestlers, ground fighters, and aggressive stand-up fighters.
*During a long post fight interview, Tito said he will be fighting for another 3-4 years.
*Tito's shirt said, "I did it my way." A sharp contrast from the weigh-in shirt, "Dana White is my Bitch."
Wanderlei Silva def. Keith Jardine via TKO, R1 :36- Jardine came out to a crazy bag pipe song while Wanderlei opted up tempo Zombie Nation. Silva landed some absolutely nasty strikes in this bout. Jardine threw a leg kick that was perfectly countered by Silva, as a shot landed flush on Jardine's face. Jardine was hurt and Wandy took advantage pouncing and throwing more bombs. Jardine's eye's rolled back, and it was a little scary for a second, but Jardine eventually walked out under his own power.
*UFC KO of the night bonus.
Thiago Silva def. Antonio Mendes via TKO, R1 2:24- Mendes came out with a huge head kick that nearly knocked Silva out, despite Silva slightly blocking the kick. While dazed, Silva stayed calm and weathered Mendes' storm. After a takedown, Silva got an opening and threw down massive bombs connecting with Mendes' face, forcing a Herb Dean stoppage.
Goran Reljic def. Wilson Gouveia via TKO, R2 3:15- The 24 year old Reljic has been hyped quite a bit regarding his striking and undefeated record. From the start of the bout, Reljic threw powerful kicks to the head and body of Gouveia. At the end of the first, Gouveia came back with some flurry's of punches to Reljic that seemed to give him the momentum.
In the second Gouveia seemed to get the best of it standing, got a takedown and had Reljic near the end of his rope. After a scramble, Reljic landed a massive left hand, then a barrage of hammerfists and punches forcing a TKO stoppage.
*UFC Fight of the night bonus given to both fighters.
Rousimar Palhares vs. Ivan Salaverry via sub. (armbar), R1 2:36- This fight was shown after Wanderlei's quick knockout of Jardine. Palhares got a good body lock throw takedown on Salaverry to start things out. Palahares was textbook as he went from sidemount, mount, rear naked choke attempt to arm bar finish.
*UFC submission of the night.
Yoshiyuki Yoshida def. John Koppenhaver via sub. (anaconda choke), R1 :56- We were able to see this fight after the BJ Penn fight. Yoshida got a judo throw to a gator roll anaconda choke. Herb Dean saw that War Machine lost consciousness and was out of commission. He made the right move calling the bout. Yoshida did not have much to say afterwards and actually seemed confused that Joe Rogan would want to ask him questions.
Shane Carwin def. Christian Wellisch via KO, R1 :43- We actually got to see this fight on the ppv and dang!!! Carwin dropped Wellish at 43 seconds in the first round with a vicious right straight directly to the chin. Wellish's mouthpiece shot out of his mouth bouncing off the canvas as Wellish's body hit the ground seconds later. The stands were pretty empty at this point and the fans should feel bad for missing such a nasty KO. I don't understand why fans miss the opening fights.
Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou def. Kazuhiro Nakamura via TKO(leg injury), R1 5:00- Sokoudjou dished out quite a bit of leg kick variations smashing Nakamura's legs. He seemed to pack some power behind the shots. Near the 4th minute Sokoudjou seemed to fade and favor a taped knee. After one of the shots landed and dropped, Nakamura's knee seemed to buckle. The bout was called shortly thereafter. Nakamura wasn't knocked out, but the injury was too much for the ref to allow him to continue.
Rich Clementi def. Terry Etim via unanimous decision- not broadcast
Dong-Hyun Kim def. Jason Tan via TKO (elbows) R3, :25- not broadcast
*David Spade was there and was holding a mini-whiskey bottle, probably Jack Daniels.
*The Rock was there was extremely pearly whites.
*Shaq was in full in attendence. I wouldn't want to be seated behind Shaq.
*Former UFC Heavyweight Champ and Celebrity Rehab castmate Ricco Rodriguez was in Tito's corner.
*Laura Prepon from that 70's Show was seated next to Spade.
*Mandy Moore was there with some hot hot friends.
*The first hour saw less than 20 minutes of fight time, but 9 fights made the broadcast.
*Steve Mazzagati ref'd without the moustache
*In the crowd was Urijah Faber whom Joe Rogan interviewed. Apparently Urijah went to Hawaii to train. WEC got some press during the ppv. Jens seemed excited and ready to go. Versus got quite a bit of advertising.
*As usual, tons of filler and advertising.
*Actor Jason Statham was .
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
UFC 84 Preview
Here is the fight card for UFC 84 as stated on ufc.com. The event is scheduled for Saturday, May 24th in Las Vegas.
Champ B.J. Penn vs. Sean Sherk- Bad blood is brewing for this lightweight title fight. Penn has looked crisp and athletic at 155, especially in his submission victories over Joe Stevenson and Jens Pulver. Sherk has had quite a bit of distraction since his victory over Hermes Franca at UFC 73.
Keith Jardine vs. Wanderlei Silva- Wanderlei is in desperate need of a victory, while Jardine is seeking to get to contender status. Dana wouldn't mind seeing either fighter win, as a Silva win would lock a rematch with Rampage Jackson.
Lyoto Machida vs. Tito Ortiz- Machida is undefeated in the UFC with four straight victories. Ortiz is on the last fight of his contract, and more than likely will pull off some sort of stunt. He will not bow gracefully into potential free agency like Arlovski.
Wilson Gouveia vs. Goran Reljic Gouveia has four straight stoppage wins in the UFC after his decision loss to Keith Jardine. His latest was a TKO of Jason Lambert. Reljic is 7-0 but has faced less than steller competition. Reljic comes out of Gracie Barra and has five submission wins, 3 armbars, on his record.
Thiago Silva vs. Antonio Mendes- 12-0 Thiago Silva is the favorite in this 205 pound fight. Silva is 3-0 in the UFC, and most recently TKO'd Houston Alexander in the first round.
Kazuhiro Nakamura vs. Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou
Rousimar Palhares vs. Ivan Salaverry
Rich Clementi vs. Terry Etim
John Koppenhaver vs. Yoshiyuki Yoshida
Dong-Hyun Kim vs. Jason Tan
Shane Carwin vs. Christian Wellisch
*I'll be updating this post over the week.
Champ B.J. Penn vs. Sean Sherk- Bad blood is brewing for this lightweight title fight. Penn has looked crisp and athletic at 155, especially in his submission victories over Joe Stevenson and Jens Pulver. Sherk has had quite a bit of distraction since his victory over Hermes Franca at UFC 73.
Keith Jardine vs. Wanderlei Silva- Wanderlei is in desperate need of a victory, while Jardine is seeking to get to contender status. Dana wouldn't mind seeing either fighter win, as a Silva win would lock a rematch with Rampage Jackson.
Lyoto Machida vs. Tito Ortiz- Machida is undefeated in the UFC with four straight victories. Ortiz is on the last fight of his contract, and more than likely will pull off some sort of stunt. He will not bow gracefully into potential free agency like Arlovski.
Wilson Gouveia vs. Goran Reljic Gouveia has four straight stoppage wins in the UFC after his decision loss to Keith Jardine. His latest was a TKO of Jason Lambert. Reljic is 7-0 but has faced less than steller competition. Reljic comes out of Gracie Barra and has five submission wins, 3 armbars, on his record.
Thiago Silva vs. Antonio Mendes- 12-0 Thiago Silva is the favorite in this 205 pound fight. Silva is 3-0 in the UFC, and most recently TKO'd Houston Alexander in the first round.
Kazuhiro Nakamura vs. Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou
Rousimar Palhares vs. Ivan Salaverry
Rich Clementi vs. Terry Etim
John Koppenhaver vs. Yoshiyuki Yoshida
Dong-Hyun Kim vs. Jason Tan
Shane Carwin vs. Christian Wellisch
*I'll be updating this post over the week.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Current UFC Winning Streaks
In an effort to sift through the UFC title picture, I compiled a list of current UFC win streaks. It almost makes the title picture look a little clearer. Jon Fitch tops the list with eight straight victories. Dana has promised him a title shot after Serra v. GSP.
Heavy (HW):
Andrei Arlovski - 3 wins (contract up, who knows what will happen)
Randy Couture - 2 wins (HW Champ, current dispute with UFC)
Antonio Nogueira - 2 wins (Interim HW Champ at UFC 81)
Eddie Sanchez - 2 wins
Christian Wellisch - 2 wins
Frank Mir - 2 wins
Fabricio Werdum - 1 win
Heath Herring - 1 win
Antoni Hardonk - 1 win
Light Heavy (LHW):
Lyoto Machida - 4 wins
Wilson Gouveia - 4 wins
Quinton Rampage Jackson - 3 wins (LHW Champ)
Thiago Silva - 3 wins
Forrest Griffin - 2 wins
Stephan Bonnar - 2 wins
Rashad Evans - 1 win, 1 draw, 5 wins
Keith Jardine - 1 win
Chuck Liddell - 1 win
Tim Boetsch - 1 win
Middle (MW):
Anderson Silva - 6 wins (MW Champ)
Martin Kampmann - 3 wins
Thales Leites - 3 wins
Patrick Cote - 3 wins
Ed Herman - 3 wins
Yushin Okami - 2 wins
Alan Belcher - 2 wins
Chris Leben - 2 wins
Dean Lister - 1 win
Nate Quarry - 1 win
Jorge Rivera - 1 win
Welter (WW):
Jon Fitch - 8 wins
Marcus Davis - 6 wins
Thiago Alves - 4 wins
Karo Parisyan - 3 wins
Matt Serra - 2 wins (WW Title)
Georges St. Pierre - 2 wins (Interim WW Title)
Mike Swick - 1 win
Akihiro Gono - 1 win
Jonathan Goulet - 1 win
Roan Carneiro - 1 win
Diego Sanchez - 1 win
Josh Koscheck - 1 win
Luigi Fioravanti - 1 win
Lightweight (LW):
Roger Huerta - 6 wins
Gleison Tibau - 3 wins
Sean Sherk - 3 wins (LW Title stripped from steroid violation)
Frank Edgar - 3 wins
Kenny Florian - 3 wins
Nate Diaz - 3 wins
Joe Lauzon - 3 wins (losses on TUF don't count)
Matt Wiman - 3 wins
BJ Penn - 2 wins (LW Champ)
Rich Clementi - 2 wins
Tyson Griffin - 2 wins
Jeremy Stephens - 2 wins
Gray Maynard - 2 wins
Sam Stout - 1 win
Manny Gamburyan - 1 win
Marcus Aurelio - 1 win
Thiago Tavares - 1 win
Kurt Pellegrino - 1 win
Corey Hill - 1 win
Jorge Gurgel - 1 win
*Let me know if I missed anyone notable who is in the UFC title picture or if I made any mistakes
Heavy (HW):
Andrei Arlovski - 3 wins (contract up, who knows what will happen)
Randy Couture - 2 wins (HW Champ, current dispute with UFC)
Antonio Nogueira - 2 wins (Interim HW Champ at UFC 81)
Eddie Sanchez - 2 wins
Christian Wellisch - 2 wins
Frank Mir - 2 wins
Fabricio Werdum - 1 win
Heath Herring - 1 win
Antoni Hardonk - 1 win
Light Heavy (LHW):
Lyoto Machida - 4 wins
Wilson Gouveia - 4 wins
Quinton Rampage Jackson - 3 wins (LHW Champ)
Thiago Silva - 3 wins
Forrest Griffin - 2 wins
Stephan Bonnar - 2 wins
Rashad Evans - 1 win, 1 draw, 5 wins
Keith Jardine - 1 win
Chuck Liddell - 1 win
Tim Boetsch - 1 win
Middle (MW):
Anderson Silva - 6 wins (MW Champ)
Martin Kampmann - 3 wins
Thales Leites - 3 wins
Patrick Cote - 3 wins
Ed Herman - 3 wins
Yushin Okami - 2 wins
Alan Belcher - 2 wins
Chris Leben - 2 wins
Dean Lister - 1 win
Nate Quarry - 1 win
Jorge Rivera - 1 win
Welter (WW):
Jon Fitch - 8 wins
Marcus Davis - 6 wins
Thiago Alves - 4 wins
Karo Parisyan - 3 wins
Matt Serra - 2 wins (WW Title)
Georges St. Pierre - 2 wins (Interim WW Title)
Mike Swick - 1 win
Akihiro Gono - 1 win
Jonathan Goulet - 1 win
Roan Carneiro - 1 win
Diego Sanchez - 1 win
Josh Koscheck - 1 win
Luigi Fioravanti - 1 win
Lightweight (LW):
Roger Huerta - 6 wins
Gleison Tibau - 3 wins
Sean Sherk - 3 wins (LW Title stripped from steroid violation)
Frank Edgar - 3 wins
Kenny Florian - 3 wins
Nate Diaz - 3 wins
Joe Lauzon - 3 wins (losses on TUF don't count)
Matt Wiman - 3 wins
BJ Penn - 2 wins (LW Champ)
Rich Clementi - 2 wins
Tyson Griffin - 2 wins
Jeremy Stephens - 2 wins
Gray Maynard - 2 wins
Sam Stout - 1 win
Manny Gamburyan - 1 win
Marcus Aurelio - 1 win
Thiago Tavares - 1 win
Kurt Pellegrino - 1 win
Corey Hill - 1 win
Jorge Gurgel - 1 win
*Let me know if I missed anyone notable who is in the UFC title picture or if I made any mistakes
Monday, December 31, 2007
UFC 79 Recap
Thoughts by the MMA Blaster
UFC 79 was a decent show with mostly one-sided fights. It wasn't nearly as good as the TUF finale, but was far superior to UFC 78. Funny how sometimes free MMA is better than the ppv's. Anyway, here are the quick results.
Georges St. Pierre defeats Matt Hughes via sub (arm-bar) — R2, 4:54
Chuck Liddell defeats Wanderlei Silva via unanimous decision
Eddie Sanchez defeats Soa Palelei via TKO (strikes) — R3, 3:24
Lyoto Machida defeats Rameau Sokoudjo via sub (arm-triangle choke) — R2, 4:20
Rich Clementi defeats Melvin Guillard via sub(rear-naked choke) — R1, 4:40
James Irvin defeats Luis Cane via DQ (illegal knee) — R1, 1:51
Manny Gamburyan defeats Nate Mohr via sub(ankle lock) — R1 — 1:31
Dean Lister defeats Jordan Radev via unanimous decision
Roan Carneiro defeats Tony DeSouza via TKO (strikes) — R2, 3:33
Mark Bocek defeats Doug Evans via unanimous decision
GSP v. Hughes- GSP may not have wrestled in college, but he looks like an absolute stud wrestling right now. He out wrestled Koscheck in his last fight, and completely out wrestled Hughes in this one. Every Hughes takedown was thwarted by GSP, and every GSP takedown attempt was successful. GSP owned Hughes up until the armbar.
**Poll Results- MMA Blaster fans voted 22-14 for GSP.
Liddell v. W. Silva- This was an exciting fight even though there were a couple slow spots. I definitely would have liked to see a couple more rounds to this one. The two brawlers exchanged time and time again, and Liddell edged him out in most of the exchanges. Liddell was wobbled, but so was Silva. What sealed the victory for Liddell was the two takedowns. Liddell is back, but I rank one guy slightly ahead of him.
**Poll results- MMA Blaster fans voted 21-20 for Liddell.
Machida v. Sokoudjo- After the one-sided beatdown Machida laid on Sokoudjo, you would have to put him in the title picture. Machida's unorthodox karate style seemed to have Soko off his game. Machida seemed to land anything at will, and also dominated Soko on the ground.
**Poll results- MMA Blaster fans voted 17-9 in favor of Soko, you Machida fans are smart.
Sanchez v. Palelei- This was an extremely boring fight, do not watch this one. Watching this fight made me think that the UFC has to do something to sign some top heavyweights. Coming to mind are BEN ROTHWELL (29-5) and Josh Barnett (21-5). Steal some IFL heavy's.
Clementi v. Guillard- This was a pretty exciting fight as both fighters were running on a hatred for one another. If you look at Clementi's fight record, it is obvious that all his big wins have been via submission or decision. Most of his KO/TKO's have been against lower tier fighters. When the fight went to the ground a couple times, I had a feeling Guillard may be in trouble. Sure enough when Clementi got his back, he was calm and rode it out until an eventual rear naked choke with a body triangle.
Get more pictures like this from SHERDOG.COM
*Sorry there hasn't been a post for awhile, I was up North for the holiday season.
UFC 79 was a decent show with mostly one-sided fights. It wasn't nearly as good as the TUF finale, but was far superior to UFC 78. Funny how sometimes free MMA is better than the ppv's. Anyway, here are the quick results.
Georges St. Pierre defeats Matt Hughes via sub (arm-bar) — R2, 4:54
Chuck Liddell defeats Wanderlei Silva via unanimous decision
Eddie Sanchez defeats Soa Palelei via TKO (strikes) — R3, 3:24
Lyoto Machida defeats Rameau Sokoudjo via sub (arm-triangle choke) — R2, 4:20
Rich Clementi defeats Melvin Guillard via sub(rear-naked choke) — R1, 4:40
James Irvin defeats Luis Cane via DQ (illegal knee) — R1, 1:51
Manny Gamburyan defeats Nate Mohr via sub(ankle lock) — R1 — 1:31
Dean Lister defeats Jordan Radev via unanimous decision
Roan Carneiro defeats Tony DeSouza via TKO (strikes) — R2, 3:33
Mark Bocek defeats Doug Evans via unanimous decision
GSP v. Hughes- GSP may not have wrestled in college, but he looks like an absolute stud wrestling right now. He out wrestled Koscheck in his last fight, and completely out wrestled Hughes in this one. Every Hughes takedown was thwarted by GSP, and every GSP takedown attempt was successful. GSP owned Hughes up until the armbar.
**Poll Results- MMA Blaster fans voted 22-14 for GSP.
Liddell v. W. Silva- This was an exciting fight even though there were a couple slow spots. I definitely would have liked to see a couple more rounds to this one. The two brawlers exchanged time and time again, and Liddell edged him out in most of the exchanges. Liddell was wobbled, but so was Silva. What sealed the victory for Liddell was the two takedowns. Liddell is back, but I rank one guy slightly ahead of him.
**Poll results- MMA Blaster fans voted 21-20 for Liddell.
Machida v. Sokoudjo- After the one-sided beatdown Machida laid on Sokoudjo, you would have to put him in the title picture. Machida's unorthodox karate style seemed to have Soko off his game. Machida seemed to land anything at will, and also dominated Soko on the ground.
**Poll results- MMA Blaster fans voted 17-9 in favor of Soko, you Machida fans are smart.
Sanchez v. Palelei- This was an extremely boring fight, do not watch this one. Watching this fight made me think that the UFC has to do something to sign some top heavyweights. Coming to mind are BEN ROTHWELL (29-5) and Josh Barnett (21-5). Steal some IFL heavy's.
Clementi v. Guillard- This was a pretty exciting fight as both fighters were running on a hatred for one another. If you look at Clementi's fight record, it is obvious that all his big wins have been via submission or decision. Most of his KO/TKO's have been against lower tier fighters. When the fight went to the ground a couple times, I had a feeling Guillard may be in trouble. Sure enough when Clementi got his back, he was calm and rode it out until an eventual rear naked choke with a body triangle.
Get more pictures like this from SHERDOG.COM
*Sorry there hasn't been a post for awhile, I was up North for the holiday season.
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