Video of the Day - Barnett v. Rizzo

Here is Josh Barnett fighting Pedro Rizzo at Affliction Banned which took place on 7/18/08 in Anaheim, California.

Barnett recently submitted Dean Lister at the grappling event Metamoris 4 winning the inagural heavyweight belt.

Video of the Day - Barnett v. Mighty Mo

Here is Josh Barnett fighting Siala Mou "Mighty Mo" Siliga at Dream 13 which took place on 3/22/10 in Yokohama, Japan.

Barnett (33-6), a former UFC HW champ, next fights Travis Browne at UFC 168.

Fights to Make After Strikeforce - Barnett v. Kharitonov

In a Strikeforce Grand Prix that has already lasted seven months, it is fair to say the luster has been lost to a certain extent. Add in a possible hand injury to finalist Daniel Cormier, as he punished the massive head of Junior "Bigfoot" Silva, and a possible finale might not reach us until the end of the year.

Josh Barnett v. Daniel Cormier- Barnett (31-5) enters the final of the Grand Prix on slick arm-triangle wins over Brett Rogers and Sergei Kharitonov. The former UFC champ, now known as "The Warmaster" will certainly enter the bout as the favorite, looking to strike to set up a takedown to use his vaunted submission skills.

(The Warmaster)

Olympic wrestler Daniel Cormier (9-0) tournament route has been off the beaten path, as he began by winning an alternate bout over Jeff Monson. Cormier then had his breakout win this past weekend knocking out the massive Bigfoot. Cormier will definitely let his hands fly again while mixing in takedowns against Barnett.

Muhammed "King Mo" Lawal v. Rafael "Feijao" Cavalcante part II for LHW Title- Both men enter the bout on dramatic KO victories. King Mo won his return bout with a first round KO of uber BJJ fighter Roger Gracie, while Feijao (11-3) stopped hyped wrestler Yoel Romero Palacios.

The first bout saw King Mo (8-1), with one bad knee, fighting a stand-up battle and eventually gassing out. A second bout with a healed up Mo would certainly yield fireworks again. The bout could be for the title, as Dan Henderson is without a contract, and likely to return to the UFC.

(King Mo)

Luke Rockhold v. Tim Kennedy for MW Title- Rockhold (8-1) had a dominant performance against reigning champ Jacare to take the 185 pound Strikeforce title. The only other fighter on a roll is Kennedy (14-3), who has defeated Robbie Lawler and Melvin Manhoef since his decision loss to the aforementioned Jacare. Rockhold has rattled off 7 straight wins.

Eric Paulson Talks SF Grand Prix

Here is Josh Barnett trainer Eric Paulson talking to Fight Hub TV's Marcos Villegas about the Strikeforce Grand Prix. Paulson explains that Barnett would like to fight Junior Silva, who apparently has been talking a lot of smack lately. However, he thought Cormier has been looking great lately.

Paulson is confident that Barnett will win the Grand Prix. He states that Barnett and Dana White, president of the UFC, have made-up.

Video of the Day - Barnett v. Mighty Mo

Here is Josh Barnett fighting Siala-Mou Siliga, aka Mighty Mo, at Dream 13 which took place on 3/22/10 in Yokohama, Japan.

Barnett won his opening round Strikeforce Grand Prix bout against Brett Rogers and moves on to face Sergei Kharitonov on September 10th.

Strikeforce - Barnett v. Kharitonov takes place on Sep 10, 2011, in Cincinnati, Ohio, at the U.S. Bank Arena. It will be broadcast on Showtime and HDNet.

SHOWTIME CARD

Josh Barnett v. Sergei Kharitonov - HW Grand Prix
Daniel Cormier v. Antonio Silva - HW Grand Prix
Ronaldo Souza v. Luke Rockhold - MW Title Fight
Roger Gracie v. Muhammed "King Mo" Lawal
Maximo Blanco v. Pat Healy

HDNET CARD

Mike Kyle v. Marcos Rogerio de Lima
Rafael "Feijao" Cavalcante vs. Yoel Romero
Jordan Mein vs. Evangelista "Cyborg" Santos
Alexis Davis vs. Amanda Nunes
Chris Mierzwiak vs. Dominique Steele

Eric Paulson Talks Josh Barnett and Strikeforce GP

You might know innovative MMA fighter and now coach Eric Paulson as Brock Lesnar's assistant coach on TUF 13. Paulson runs the CSW gym in Fullerton, California, and serves as Josh Barnett's head coach among others.

In the interview below, taken by Marcos Villegas, Paulson explains that he wasn't surprised to see Brett Rogers last to the second round with Josh. The objective was for Josh to not get hit, get the takedown, control Rogers and take his wind.

For Barnett's next match-up against uber puncher Sergei Kharitonov, Paulson will have Josh work on his conditioning, boxing and takedowns. The goal will be for Josh to get a tie-up, takedown, top ccontrol and obviously to end the fight.

When discussing Alistair Overeem's performance against Fabricio Werdum, Paulson explained that Overeem appeared sluggish and Werdum was beating him to the punch. Antio Silva has improved by leaps and bounds, and has a great chance to advance to the finals. Check out the video below!

Strikeforce - Overeem v. Werdum

Strikeforce - "Overeem v. Werdum" will air live this Saturday night on Showtime from the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. The event will include the 2nd half of the 1st round of the Strikeforce HW Grand Prix.

The headlining bout pits K-1, Dream and Strikeforce HW title holder Alistair Overeem (34-11) against ADCC champ Fabricio Werdum (14-4). The game plans are obvious in this fight, as Overeem will do his best to strike and keep the fight standing. Conversly, Werdum will do his best to bring the fight to the ground, where Werdum submitted Overeem in 2006 with a kimura in Pride.

Since becoming a full-time heavyweight, Overeem's career has shot off the charts. He is 9-0 in MMA since a September 2007 KO loss to fellow tourney competitor Sergei Kharitonov. Even more impressive, Alistair was able to capture the 2010 K-1 Grand Prix World Championship, defeating kickboxing legend Peter Aerts in the final.

(Overeem KO's Fujita)

Werdum sent shockwaves through the MMA world in his last fight, a one minute long bout with Fedor Emelianenko which saw the Russian tapping. As the bout unfolded, Werdum was punched, went to the canvas, and then baited an aggressive Fedor into the fight ending triangle/armbar choke. The submission won MMA Blaster's submission of the year.

(Werdum submits Fedor)

In other action, former UFC champ Josh Barnett (29-5) meets former Elite XC and Strikeforce contender Brett Rogers. Rogers has slimmed down since his last bout, but will still be looking to use his powerful hands. The smart thing for Barnett to do would be to get the fight to the ground as quick as possible, but he may look to strike first standing.

Josh Barnett fought twice in Japan in 2010, winning via TKO over Geronimo dos Santos and submitting Mighty Mo Siliga. Barnett rose to fame in the early UFC, defeating Semmy Schilt and Bobby Hoffman to earn a title shot against Randy Couture. Barnett would defeat Couture via TKO at UFC 36, but tested positive for three banned substances. Barnett would go on to acheive success in Pride, going to the finals of the 2006 HW Grand Prix.

(Josh Barnett Pride picture)

The hard hitting Rogers rose to fame in the Elite XC when he rattled off four straight wins to earn a fight against Andrei Arlovski. Rogers would go on to knock out Arlovski with a clean shot, catapulting him into a match with Fedor Emelianenko. Unfortunately, Rogers would be TKO'd by Fedor and next to Alistair Overeem. He has since rebounded with a win over Ruben "Warpath" Villareal.

(Brett Rogers pictured)

Here is a look at the card:

SHOWTIME MAIN CARD

Alistair Overeem v. Fabricio Werdum - HW GP
Josh Barnett v. Brett Rogers - HW GP
Daniel Cormier v. Jeff Monson
Chad Griggs v. Valentijn Overeem
Jorge Masvidal v. K.J. Noons

HDNET CARD

Gesias "JZ" Cavalcante v. Justin Wilcox
Magno Almeida v. Conor Heun
Nah-Shon Burrell v. Joe Ray
Mike Bronzoulis v. Todd Moore
Brian Melancon v. Isaac Vallie-Flagg

Strikeforce HW GP Recap Video

Strikeforce Epic Heavyweight Tournament

The MMA world is buzzing after the opening bouts of Strikeforce's Heavyweight Grand Prix style tournament involving eight top 25 heavyweights. The next round will take place on April 9th somewhere on planet Earth. Japan, Canada and many locations in the United States have been rumored, but the status of Josh Barnett's fight license will likely force Strikeforce's hand.

The opening bouts saw MMA legend Fedor Emelianenko get crushed in the second round by the notably bigger Antonio Silva. In addition, Andrei Arlovski will likely be out of the game for a long time following a dramatic knock-out loss to the hands of Russian slugger Sergei Kharitonov.

The next round will see K-1, Dream and Strikeforce champion Alistair Overeem fighting ADCC champion Fabricio Werdum in a mega fight. In addition, former UFC champ Josh Barnett will face hard hitting Brett Rogers.

Alistair Overeem's Strikeforce HW belt will not be on the line, as the tournament will crown an independent Grand Prix Champion. Look for Werdum to try to force the floor at all times to avoid Alistair's destructive stand-up game.

Round 1 Results:

Antonio Silva def Fedor Emelianenko via TKO, R2, 5:00
Sergei Kharitonov def Andrei Arlovski via KO, R1, 2:49

Reserve Bout Winners:

Shane Del Rosario def Lavar Johnson via Sub(armbar) R1, 4:31
Chad Griggs def Gian Villante via TKO (strikes) R1, 2:49
Valentijn Overeem def Ray Sefo via Sub (neck crank) R1, 1:37

Remaining Round 1 bouts:

Alistair Overeem v. Fabricio Werdum (April 9th)
Brett Rogers v. Josh Barnett (April 9th)


Final Four Qualifiers:

Antonio Silva (16-2)- "Pezao" or "Bigfoot" is a strong heavyweight that meets the top end of the 265 pound limit. A lifelong martial artist, Silva has black belts in Karate, Judo and BJJ. Silva rose to fame by winning the heavyweight title in Elite XC, though he later tested positive for steroids. Silva blamed the test on a testosterone-booster that he uses to counteract the low testosterone levels caused by his acromegaly.

In the opening round of the tournament, Bigfoot had a very close 1st round matching the stand-up skills of Fedor Emelienenko. However in the second round, Bigfoot took advantage of Fedor utilizing his ground skills establishing dominant position, then crushing his foe with his massive fists.

Silva will go as far as his big time power and ground game will take him. Silva has TKO wins over Tom Erikson, Mike Kyle and Wesley Correira. He has decision wins over Andrei Arlovski and Ricco Rodriguez.


Sergei Kharitonov (18-4)- This Russian Airborne soldier gained notierity in the MMA world with his entertaining bouts in the Pride organization. A former training partner with Fedor Emelianenko, Kharitonov emerged in the 2004 Pride HW GP when he KO'd Ninja Rua and kickboxing legend Semmy Schilt.

Expect Kharitonov went toe to toe with Andrei Arlovski in his opening round bout, and despite taking some shots eventually got the better of Arlovski. Kharitonov used nasty uppercuts and punches to the body, eventually sending Arlovski to the canvas and finishing him off with strong ground and pound. Kharitonov has other victories over tournament front runners Alistair Overeem and Fabricio Werdum.


Remaining 1st Round Fighters:

Alistair Overeem (34-11)- Since becoming a full-time heavyweight, Overeem's career has shot off the charts. He is 9-0 since a September 2007 KO loss to fellow tourney competitor Sergei Kharitonov. Even more impressive, Alistair was able to capture the 2010 K-1 Grand Prix World Championship, defeating kickboxing legend Peter Aerts in the final.

Overeem is the defending Strikeforce HW champion, having won the title against Paul Buentello and defending against Brett Rogers. A powerful kickboxer with upper level submission skills, Overeem has other victories against Vitor Belfort, Todd Duffee and Igor Vovchanchyn.  Overeem will look to keep the fight standing against Werdum.


Fabricio Werdum (14-4)- Werdum sent shockwaves through the MMA world in his last fight, a one minute long bout with Fedor Emelianenko which saw the Russian tapping. As the bout unfolded, Werdum was punched, went to the canvas, and then baited an aggressive Fedor into the fight ending triangle/armbar choke. The submission won MMA Blaster's submission of the year.

Fabricio Werdum will be looking to get the fight with Overeem to the ground early and often to utilize his world renown jiu-jitsu skills. The task will be difficult, but Werdum has defeated many top fighters, including Brandon Vera, Junior Silva, Gabriel Gonzaga, Aleks Emelianenko and Fedor Emelianenko. Werdum is the 2007 and 2009 ADCC HW champ.


Josh Barnett (26-5)- The submission wizard and pro wrestling fanatic, Josh Barnett is an interesting character in the martial arts world. Barnett is still a wild card in the tournament, still not having cleared up a positive steroid test in California. If troubles persist, look for an alternate to take Barnett's place.

With the positive test looming in the United States, Barnett fought twice in Japan in 2010, winning via TKO over Geronimo dos Santos and submitting Mighty Mo Siliga. Barnett rose to fame in the early UFC, defeating Semmy Schilt and Bobby Hoffman to earn a title shot against Randy Couture. Barnett would defeat Couture via TKO at UFC 36, but tested positive for three banned substances. Barnett would go on to acheive success in Pride, going to the finals of the 2006 HW Grand Prix.


Brett Rogers (11-2)- The hard hitting Rogers rose to fame in the Elite XC when he rattled off four straight wins to earn a fight against Andrei Arlovski. Rogers would go on to knock out Arlovski with a clean shot, catapulting him into a match with Fedor Emelianenko.

Rogers would fight Fedor at Strikeforce, Chicago and battle the Russian to a close first round. In the second, Rogers ate a big shot and his night was finished. Rogers next fought Alistair Overeem to disappointing results. Since, Rogers rebounded with a win over Warpath Villareal.

Video of the Day - Josh Barnett to Strikeforce

Here is video of Josh Barnett being interviewed by friend of MMA Blaster, Marcos of Fight Hub TV. Josh plays a little coy regarding his deal with Strikeforce, laying down some jokes. Josh does confirm his IGF pro wrestling match with Tim Sylvia at the end of the month in Japan.


Here is an early Josh Barnett fight against John Marsh in the Superbrawl promotion which occured on 9/7/99.

MMA Legend - Fedor Emelianenko

Fedor Emelianenko (31-3) has generally been considered the number one overall MMA fighter since 2003 when he beat Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira via unanimous decision to win Pride's heavyweight belt. Despite being only 6 feet tall and weighing 225-230 pounds, Fedor's heart, striking, submission skills, judo, and ability can't be questioned.

On Sherdog and various other MMA sites on the web Fedor has almost risen to a sort of mythical status as the consensus greatest of all-time. Unfortunately, with his recent two losses to Fabricio Werdum and Antonio Silva, and the emergence of Anderson Silva, Fedor's aura has faded slightly. A win over former Pride champion Dan Henderson this weekend could definitely put a little shine on.

Many fans of MMA have been dying to see him in the UFC, and it appears he might be on the verge of signing. Since the collapse of Affliction, and Zuffa's purchase of Strikeforce, rumors about Fedor and the UFC have been swirling. However, the M-1 group which manages Fedor wants co-promotion of events and the UFC will not budge on that point of contention. Strikeforce agreed to that term, dying to get Fedor stateside.

There is no denying that Fedor has beaten some of the best mixed martial artists the world has ever seen. Fedor holds two decision wins over the aforementioned Nogueria, decision wins over Mirko Cro Cop Filipovic, Renato "Babalu" Sobral, K1 legend Semmy Schilt and Ricardo Arona. He has KO victories over Heath Herring, Gary Goodridge, and Tsuyoshi Kohsaka. He has submission victories over UFC HW Champ Tim Sylvia, UFC HW Champ Mark Coleman 2X, Mark Hunt, Matt Lindland, Naoya Ogawa, UFC HW Champ Kevin Randleman and Kazuyuki Fujita.

One of my favorite Fedor fights was his brawl with Kevin Randleman. Randleman suplexed Fedor on his head and miraculously, Fedor was able to regain composure and submit Randleman with a Kimura.

He recently defeated yet another former UFC heavyweight champ in Andrei Arlovski in his last fight. Arlovski was generally considered the #3 or 4 heavyweight in the world at the time. Despite taking quite a few of Arlovski's punches and kicks, he remained calm and knocked Arlovski out cold three minutes into the bout.

The only loss that Fedor suffered early in his career came at a Rings Tournament. Fedor had beaten Ricardo Arona by slim decision in his previous bout and was cut in that fight. 17 seconds into his second bout of the day he was struck by the elbow of opponent Tsuyoshi Kohsaka reopening the cut and leaving Fedor unable to continue. Rings rules did not allow elbow strikes unless elbow pads were worn. However, because they needed to have someone in the final TK was given a victory.

Video of the Day - Barnett v. Marsh

Here is Josh Barnett v. John Marsh from Superbrawl 13 which took place on 9/7/99. Barnett was supposed to fight Fedor Emelianenko at Affliction 3. However, there has been allegations that Barnett failed a California drug test in anticipation to the event. Now Affliction may have Vitor Belfort take his place.

Affliction - King Fedor Rules Supreme

With one devastating punch to the face, Fedor Emelianenko knocked Andrei Arlovski into another stratosphere. He also knocked out anyone who thinks Fedor does not deserve the status as the worlds top heavyweight fighter.

Arlovski was on a hot streak coming into the bout, defeating Roy Nelson, Ben Rothwell, Jake O'Brien, Fabricio Werdum and Marcio Cruz. But Arlovski's fate would be different against the legend of Fedor.

Through first three minutes, Arlovski and Fedor traded punches. Arlovski used his height and reach advantage to create distance. Fedor fed Arlovski a steady diet of overhand rights but Arlovski seemed to be a hair faster with his straight punches. Even Tito's praise of Arlovski could help him against the unstoppable Fedor.

In a flury, Fedor was knocked to the corner with an Arlovski push kick that would seem to have stunned a normal fighter. But the ever calm Fedor slowed down the game as Arlovski turned on his jets. Andrei sprang forward with a flying knee, but waiting for him was a Fedor right hand that landed right on the button. Another one bites the dust.


As the power punch met its target on Arlovski's jaw, the 6'4" heavyweight came crashing to the canvas. Fedor calmly walked away, his hand raised. Three minutes and fourteen seconds had passed and another former UFC heavyweight champ fell victim to the top HW in the world. Fedor needed just 3:14 to take out another challenger.

The next challenge for Fedor will likely be top 4 HW Josh Barnett. Barnett defeated Gilbert Yvel at 3:05 of the third round due strikes. Josh has kept a fairly busy schedule despite Affliction's light schedule fighting twice in Japan for the Sengoku in 2008.

In other action, Vitor Belfort unleashed a fury on Matt Lindland knocking him senseless at with a left hand punch to Lindland's chin. Belfort followed up with a couple punches, but they weren't needed. Vitor notched his 4 win in a row, utilizing his hand to knock out a world class wrestler.

In the second round, Babalu Sobral was able to choke out Sokoudjou with an anaconda choke. Sobral tried and tried to bring the fight to the ground, and once his finished a double leg, Sokoudjou was cooked.

Paul Buentello def Kiril Sidelnikov via TKO (doctor's stoppage), R3- 4:18- Buentello simply outclassed baby Fedor in this heavyweight tilt. Buentello measured his opponent and found his jab enroute to opening up a cut on the Russian. From there, the fight was stopped in the third round.

Antonio Rogerio Nogueira def Vladimir Matyushenko via KO (Knee), R2- 4:26- For some reason, Vladdy Matyushenko didn't attempt a takedown in this fight and he sure paid for it. Vladdy lost in brutal fashion being rocked by knees and punches before finally crumpling to the mat.

Brett Cooper def Patrick Speight via TKO (Punches), R2- 4:10- Brett Cooper and his Clay Guida style caveman locks used superior boxing and cardio to put out Patrick Speight.

Albert Rios def Antonio Duarte via Decision (Unanimous)
L.C. Davis def Bao Quach via Decision (Unanimous)
Dan Lauzon def Bobby Green via Sub (Rear-Naked Choke), R1- 4:55
Jay Hieron def. Jason High via KO (punches) -- Round 1, 1:04.

Affliction: Day of Reckoning Preview

Here is the rumored card for Affliction: Day of Reckoning which takes place this Saturday. The under card will be shown live on HDNet. The fights will take place at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California.

MAIN CARD

Fedor Emelianenko vs. Andrei Arlovski- Fedor's lone mma appearance in 2008 was a 36 second destruction of former UFC champ Tim Sylvia. Fedor will most likely try to bring the fight to the ground in an attempt to submit Arlovski. Then again, Fedor may try to use his boxing to take out Arlovski.

A highly decorated fighter that some call the greatest of all-time, Fedor has beat the best fighters at their primes. We will see how much longer Fedor's reign can continue. Fedor holds wins over Tim Sylvia, Antonio Nogueria, Mirko Cro Cop Filipovic, Renato "Babalu" Sobral, Semmy Schilt, Ricardo Arona, Heath Herring, Gary Goodridge, Tsuyoshi Kohsaka, Mark Coleman, Mark Hunt, Matt Lindland, Naoya Ogawa, Kevin Randleman and Kazuyuki Fujita.

(Fedor choking out Tim Sylvia)

If Arlovski has one thing going for him, its a lack of ring rust. Arlovski fought three times in 2008 earning TKO/KO wins over Jake O'Brien, Ben Rothwell and Roy Nelson. The former UFC heavyweight champ will likely try to utilize his boxing skills that he has been honing recently with legendery boxing coach Freddie Roach. Arlovski has beat Vladimir Matyushenko, Justin Eilers, Tim Sylvia (w/two losses), Paul Buentello and Ian Freeman in the UFC.

(Andrei Arlovski pictured)

Josh Barnett vs. Gilbert Yvel- Barnett is an absolute monster in the submission game. In his three appearances in 2008 Barnett won over Jeff Monson via unanimous decision, Hidehiko Yoshida via heel hook and in his most impressive performance KO'd legendary striker Pedro Rizzo.

Josh Barnett has victories over Mirko Cro Cop, Aleksander Emelianenko, Semmy Schilt, Dan Severn, Mark Hunt and Yuki Kondo in his career. With 14 of his 23 victories won via submission, common logic would seem to lend Barnett going for a submission. Barnett should have a weight advantage in this fight.

(Josh Barnett pictured)

Gilbert Yvel (35-12) is a controversial figure in the mma world. He infamously has eye gouged Don Frye and KO'd a referee. What's lost is that he has a solid resume with 30 wins via KO/TKO and 5 sumission victories. His big wins have come against Semmy Schilt, Tsuyoshi Kohsaka, Cheick Kongo, Valentijn Overeem and Fabiano Scherner. Gilbert will look to get a KO on a takedown attempt.

(Gilbert Yvel throwing the knee)

Vitor Belfort vs. Matt Lindland- These two ten year UFC vets will fight in an interesting 185 pound contest. Vitor Belfort (17-8) last defeated UFC vet Terry Martin at the first Affliction with flashes of his devastating striking style. Vitor is currently on a three fight win streak and has victories over Randy Couture, Heath Herring, Wanderlei Silva and Gilbert Yvel.

(Vitor Belfort pictured)

Matt Lindland, the former Olympic silver medalist in Greco Roman wrestling will carry a chip on his shoulder after a decision victory of Fabio Nascimento at the first Affliction. Previous to that fight, Lindland lost to Fedor in Bodog Fight. Lindland has victories over Jeremy Horn, Carlos Newton, Joe Doerkson, Travis Lutter and Pat Miletich.

(Matt Lindland pictured)

Renato "Babalu" Sobral vs. Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou
Paul Buentello vs. Kiril Sidelnikov

UNDER CARD (HDNet)

Vladamir Matyushenko vs. Antonio Rogerio Nogueira
Jay Hieron vs. Jason High
L.C. Davis vs. Bao Quach
Antonio Duarte vs. Albert Rios
Patrick Speight vs. Brett Cooper

*Chris Horodecki vs. Dan Lauzon- scratched due to a Horodecki bulging disc.

Sengoku! Number 6

The Japanese promotion Sengoku is having their 6th event this Saturday. I believe the fights will be shown on HDNet at some point. There are two grand prix's wrapping up for the MW and LW divisions. Josh Barnett still doesn't have an opponent named. One big time up and comer who is fighting is Mo Lawal. He is a D2 wrestling champ, I included his last fight with Travis Wiuff below the card. Mo's entrance for the last Sengoku was pretty awesome, below the fight.

Josh Barnett vs. TBA
Muhammad "King Mo" Lawal vs. Fabio Silva
Sergey Golyaev vs. Takanori Gomi
Siyar Bahadurzada vs. Jorge Santiago- MW GP bout
Kazuhiro Nakamura vs. Yuki Sasaki- MW GP bout
Joe Doerksen vs. Izuru Takeuchi- MW reserve bout
Mizuto Hirota vs. Kazunori Yokota- LW GP bout
Satoru Kitaoka vs. Eiji Mitsuoka- LW GP bout
Bang Seung Hwan vs. Jorge Masvidal- LW reserve bout
Lightweight GP final
Middleweight GP final

Arlovski v. Barnett - Affliction 2 Postponed

While this Affliction card could stack up to any around, it has been postponed. Reports are that tickets sales were abismal. They are reportedly going to wait until January so the number one heavyweight in the world Fedor Emelianenko can appear on the card.

I feel bad for the former IFL stars that were going to make their respective debuts at this event. Former champs Roy Nelson, Vladdy Matyushenko and Jay Hieron along with 20 year old phenom Chris Horodecki were all slated to fight. Most have been on the shelf for some time.

Supposedly the fighters will be blended into the January card that was to feature Fedor Emelianenko. I wouldn't be surprised if Andrei Arlovski took on Fedor and Barnett fought Tim Sylvia in the new fightcard.

FORMER MAIN CARD (PPV)

Andrei Arlovski (UFC) vs. Josh Barnett (UFC, Pride)- Battle of two former UFC heavyweight champions. This will determine who earns the title fight with Fedor.
Vladimir Matyushenko (UFC, IFL LHW Champ) vs. Antonio Rogerio Nogueira (Pride)
Matt Lindland (UFC, IFL) vs. Trevor Prangley (UFC)
Chris Horodecki (IFL) vs. Dan Lauzon (UFC)
Ben Rothwell (IFL) vs. Pedro Rizzo (UFC)
Drew Fickett (UFC) vs. Jay Hieron (UFC, IFL WW Champ)

FORMER PRELIMS (HDNet)

Paul Buentello (UFC) vs. Roy Nelson (IFL HW Champ)
Jason High (6-0, MCC) vs. Mike Pyle (17-5, IFL)
Chase Gormley (6-0, MFC) vs. Jay White (HDNet)

Arlovski Highlight Video

Affliction: Fedor Style

A reported 14,832 were in attendance to see Affliction's inaugural show. The production was not quite UFC's level, but who cares about production values? I want to see great fights, and that's exactly what this heavyweight all-star card produced.

Paul Buentello def. Gary Goodridge via. Decision (Unanimous)- Buentello was able to push the pace and win the fight.

Vitor Belfort def. Terry Martin via. KO (Punch) R2, 3:12- Vitor stood and traded with Martin during the first which also saw Martin get some takedowns. In the second, Vitor began to string together standing combinations before bringing a massive knee to Martin's head. A big punch sent Martin to the canvas, with Vitor backing off as he knew Martin was KO'd.

Mike Pyle def. JJ Ambrose via Sub (Rear-naked choke) R1, 2:51- Pyle went from takedown to mount to rear naked choke.

Antonio Rogerio Nogueira def. Edwin Dewees via. TKO (Punches) R1, 4:06- Edwin Dewees tapped into his inner Krazy Horse Bennett as he tried some push kicks while in a corner with his arms over the ropes. Unfortunately, the strategy didn't work as Dewees ended up being crushed and sent to the canvas after knees and punches. While Dewees put up a valiant effort, he was simply out-matched when it came to boxing.

Matt Lindland def. Fabio Negao via Decision (Unanimous)- Lindland won a couple rounds to win the decision.

Renato Sobral def. Mike Whitehead via Decision (Unanimous)- Babalu pressed the action more and landed more strikes to defeat Mike Whitehead via decision. Babalu came close with a submission attempt and did more damage in this mostly one-sided fight.

Mark Hominick def. Trenell "Savant" Young via Submission (Armbar) R2, 4:25- After a Savant Young trip take down, Hominick cycled through a barrage of submission attempts before using a triangle attempt to get an arm bar.

Josh Barnett def. Pedro Rizzo via. KO (Punch) R2, 1:44- Barnett and Rizzo mainly kept the fight standing and as a boxing match in the first. Barnett would lunge in for takedowns after punching and kicking. Barnett landed a variety of kicks, including two spinning back kicks. In the second, he connected with a vicious left hook sending Rizzo down.

Andrei Arlovski def. Ben Rothwell via KO (Punches) R3, 1:13- Wow, Andrei Arlovski is back. He got the better of every exchange as he used Ben Rothwell's head like a punching bag on more than one occasion. After knocking Big Ben to the canvas, Arlovski kept bring punishment. He tried leg locks in two rounds, which were unsuccessful. In the third, Rothwell went down hard after a straight right and right uppercut.

Fedor Emelianenko def. Tim Sylvia via Submission (Rear-naked choke) R1, 0:36- Fedor's United States debut was an absolute explosion. The invincible Emelianenko stood and traded with the taller Tim Sylvia. Fedor was able to close the gap between him and his taller foe. Sylvia admitted that he, "has never been hit like that before." It took only seconds before Fedor connected with a punch flush to the chin of Sylvia and sent him to the canvas. As Fedor swarmed in, a dazed Sylvia was not able to stop more punches before rolling into a rear naked choke.

*“I don’t think Fedor is human,” Sylvia half-joked after the fight. “He is by far the best fighter in the world."

In his next match, Fedor may see UFC legend Randy Couture as his contract with the UFC expires in October. Josh Barnett and Andrei Arlovski are two other Affliction fighters who deserve a spot. Hopefully there is a number one contender match if the Couture fight happens.
*MMA Blaster pollsters picked Fedor to win 7-2

Affliction - Banned

AFFLICTION - BANNED

Below is a rumored all-star card for the inaugural Affliction show. Affliction has a whopping seven current top twenty heavyweights according to MMA Blaster rankings. Almost every fighter on the card has fought on the main stage in the UFC, Pride, IFL or BoDog. The show will air on pay per view, and reportedly have a big music act as well. Megadeth has been mentioned as a possibility.



Fedor Emelianenko (27-1) vs. Tim Sylvia (24-4)- Finally we get to see number one heavyweight Fedor fight a legit heavyweight threat in former UFC Champ Tim Sylvia. Sylvia lost his UFC heavyweight crown to Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira at UFC 81. Fedor beat massive Hong Man Choi in his last fight. Sylvia will try to use his 6'8" frame and reach advantage to box with Fedor. Sylvia was 9-4 in the UFC.


Josh Barnett (20-5) vs. Pedro Rizzo (16-7)- Former UFC heavyweight champs Josh Barnet and Pedro Rizzo are squaring off against each other in this rematch. Rizzo has a KO victory over Josh at UFC 30, and last won against Jeff Monson in last September's Art of War 3 show. Below is a gif from Barnett v. Yoshida. Barnett has beat Monson and Yoshida after a very close split decision loss to Big Nog.


Ben Rothwell (29-5) vs. Andrei Arlovski (12-5)- IFL heavyweight sensation Ben Rothwell (29-5) should be in action against former UFC HW Champ Andrei Arlovski (13-5). The heavy-handed Rothwell last won a unanimous decision over Ricco Rodriguez in September. Rothwell is on a 13 fight win streak. Arlovski is on a three fight win streak against heavyweights Marcio Cruz, Fabricio Werdum, and Jake O'Brien. This will be Arlovski's first fight outside the UFC since May of 2000.

Matt Lindland (20-5) vs. Fabio Nascimento (19-5)- On the same note we finally get to see UFC/IFL/Bodog veteran Matt Lindland fight again. The former UFC middleweight contender has been on the shelf since his loss to Fedor at heavyweight last April. Lindland has been making a successful run at a state Representative spot in Oregon.

Renato "Babalu" Sobral (29-7) vs. Mike Whitehead (20-5)- Mike Whitehead is on an eleven fight win streak in the IFL and regional fight promotions. He is facing released UFC fighter Babalu Sobral. Sobral won his first match outside the UFC against Rodney Faverus (24-15). Babalu was booted from the UFC following the infamous David Heath choke incident.

Vitor Belfort (16-8) v. Terry Martin (17-4)- Another interesting fight is between Terry Martin and Vitor Belfort. Martin has won a boxing match and his last MMA match. Former UFC Champ Belfort won twice last year in Cage Rage, but hasn't fought this year. Vitor won the LHW Belt from Randy Couture at UFC 46.

Paul Buentello (23-10) vs. Aleksander Emelianenko (13-3)- Alistair Overeem recently defeated Buentello for the Strikeforce heavyweight title. Fedor's brother, Aleks, is coming off a victories over Silvao Santos, Dan Bobish, Jessie Gibson and Eric Pele.

UNDERCARD
Antonio Rogerio Nogueira (13-3) v. *Edwin Dewees (38-12)
Mark Hominick (15-8) vs. Savant Young (9-7)
JJ Ambrose (9-1) vs. Mike Pyle (15-5)

+Some fights will air on FSN before the ppv broadcast.
++Check out the Inside MMA show for more information.
+++The UFC will run an Ultimate Fight Night to cut away at the debut show.

World Victory Road

Here are highlights from Gomi v. Ludwig and Hidehiko Yoshida v. Barnett. These are four guys I'd like to see in the UFC or anywhere on the United States circuit.



RESULTS:
Nick Thompson def. Fabricio Monteiro - Unanimous Decision
Ryo Kawamura def. Antonio Braga Neto - Unanimous Decision
Evangelista Santos def. Makoto Takimoto - Submission (Heel Hook) R1 4:51
Kazuyuki Fujita def. Peter Graham - Submission (North-South Choke) R1 1:23
Kazuo Misaki def. Siyar Bahadurzada - Submission (Guillotine Choke) R2 2:02
Takanori Gomi def. Duane Ludwig - TKO (Cut) R1 2:28
Josh Barnett def. Hidehiko Yoshida - Submission (Heel Hook) R3 3:23

World Victory Road's March 5 Card

Many of us are waiting for the next incantation of Pride, and World Victory Road may be it. Their debut is a March 5th fight card being held in the National Yoyogi Stadium in Tokoyo, Japan. In addition to announced bouts, Pride LW champ Takanori Gomi is supposed to fight on the card. (Yes, the Nick Diaz fight counts as a LOSS in MMA Blaster's world). Also, Cyborg Santos (15-11) is rumored to be on the card.

Fight Card so far:
Tanakori Gomi (27-4) vs. Duane Ludwig (16-7)
Kazou Misaki (18-8) v. Siyar Bahadurzada (13-1)
Josh Barnett (20-5) v. Hidehiko Yoshida (7-5)
Phil Baroni (10-8) v. Sanea Kikuta (26-6)


NYBA promo pic

Ring of Fire First Round Results

I recently found the results of the Ring of Fire event held in the Philippines posted on Josh Barnett's website. I wrote a previous story about this team event a couple weeks back. The results of the match-up were pretty predictable, but at least the two strongest teams are left. I'll preview the finals match-ups shortly. Here are the results:

Team Shamrock vs. Team Gracie

155lbs
Even Dunham wins by Front Choke over Cleber Luciano
185lbs
Kyacey "Ice Cold" Uscola wins by UD over Jorge "Macaco" Patino
205lbs
Mike Whitehead wins by UD over Daniel Serafian
Heavyweight
Ricco Rodriguez wins by TKO (Low Kicks) over Kevin Filal
Women 130lbs
Tonya Evinger wins by Cross Arm Lock over Kat Alendal

Team Shamrock wins 5-0

Team Barnett vs. Team Gokor

155lbs
Koji Oishi wins by UD over Karen Darabedyan
185lbs
Yuki Kondo wins by UD over August Wallen
205lbs
Renato "Babalu" Sobral wins by Side Choke over Rodney Faverus
Heavyweight
Jeff "The Snowman" Monson wins by UD over Hakim Gouram
Women 130lbs
Ginele Marquez wins by Forfeit

Team Barnett wins 5-0

Female fighter of the night: Tonya Evinger
Male fighter of the night: Yuki Kondo
Fight of the night: Tonya Evinger vs. Kat Alendal

Team Championsip finals in Macau:
Team Barnett vs. Team Shamrock


Photo of Shamrock v. Gracie II found on Photobucket and used incidently to the story