Wednesday, March 22, 2006

UFC Lightweight Scene


With the UFC bringing back the ultra-exciting Lightweight division, the race for the soon-to-be title is on. Rumors have Hermes Franca, Jorge Gurgel, possibly Jens Pulver, and more coming to the UFC to compete. This is a run down of my Top Ten Lightweights, and reasons why.

1 Mark Hominick 10-4-1-The Canadian came down and shocked the world by defeating Yves Edwards at UFC 58. Already a champion (145lbs.) at the TKO promotion, Mark has to be the front runner after taking out the "uncrowned champion" Yves.
2 Sam Stout 9-1-1-Sam is yet another Canadian champion from TKO (155lbs.). He is an amazing striker who hasn't lost since his first fight (the 2nd was a draw). It would be interesting to see if he would fight fellow Team Thompkins member Mark Hominick if they end up being the top two in the divison.
3 Yves Edwards 28-10-1-The afore mentioned "uncrowned champ," would've been the last Lightweight title holder for the UFC, but they ended up getting rid of the division. Yves has gone far with his trademarked "Thug-jit su" style, and beaten many great fighters. The upset loss to Mark will hurt him, but he has a 3-fight deal with the UFC so there will be more opportunities for redemption.
4 Sean "Muscle Shark" Sherk 28-2-1-Sean is fighting Nick Diaz at UFC 59 at 170lbs. After that, he will begin his new 3-fight deal with the UFC as a Lightweight. Everyone should be scared if this monster can make the weight. He is an amazing wrestler who fights a lot like Matt Hughes! He has amazing power and vicious ground and pound. He will be one to watch!
5 Jens "Little Evil" Pulver 19-6-1-Jens has a fight at Bushido 10, but the former UFC Lightweight Champion, will no doubt be coming home to reclaim his belt. The Miletich fighter has some of the heaviest hands in his division and is always exciting.
6 Jorge Gurgel 9-1-Rich Franklin's right hand man and training partner, is rumored to be coming soon to the UFC. He is amazing on the ground and always in great shape. The complete package, he can stand with the best of them. His one weakness is his arrogance which sometimes gets him into trouble.
7 Spencer "The King" Fisher 17-2-The King took his last fight on just over a weeks notice and had to drop almost 20lbs! He made weight, but lost to Sam Stout by decision. Another Miletich fighter, this kid is touted by Pat Miletich as the "next big thing" to come out of their camp. With that kind of praise from the master, he will be one to watch. A great fighter on the feet, or on the ground.
8 Duane "Bang" Ludwig 12-4-Bas Rutton's prize student was brought into the UFC to lose to Jonathan Goultet. Instead, he KO'd Goulet in 11 seconds! Bang is a world class striker and kickboxing expert who has fought some of the best in the world. Though not officially signed, he is rumored to be returning soon.
9 Hermes Franca 11-5-This UFC vet fell on hard times and took a break from the sport. He returned with a vengance at WEC 19, capturing their Lightweight title by KO. If the UFC brings him back to the dance, he can continue his comeback in style.
10 Kenny "Kenflo" Florian 3-2-I've never been a big fan of the Ultimate Fighter Season 1 vet, but he has shown a lot of heart and great ju-jit su skills. He also cuts up opponents with his boney elbows and is ready to fight in the UFC at his true weight.

No comments: