Friday, January 30, 2009

UFC 94: Georges St-Pierre vs BJ Penn 2

Main Card
Welterweight Champion Georges "Rush" St-Pierre vs. Lightweight Champion BJ Penn (Rematch) BJ damaged and kept their 1st fight close, but faded as he tends to do, and got out pointed. Now GSP has 5 rounds to work on the infamous gasser, with superior game in all areas (except for 1 punch power). I'm not calling this a run away fight for St-Pierre, but he is a much better fighter than in the initial meeting, and has added mental toughness against a man who talked waaay to much shit to make you believe his confidence. BJ has only motivated GSP who I believe will take the fight wherever it goes (standing or the floor).
WINNER-GSP Rd.4 TKO
Light Heavyweight bout: Lyoto "The Dragon" Machida 13-0 vs. Thiago Silva 13-0 That battle of the undefeated Brazilians will most likely birth the new #1 Light Heavyweight contender. Remember the old Pride FC days when Chute Boxe guys would swagger into the ring intimidating their opponents with glaredowns and a record of straight bludgeoning cats? Thiago brings it all back. The dude finishes fights (only 1 has gone the distance) while Machida has only stopped 5 men. This is important to me because everyone is taking Lyoto because of his pick you apart style, and clean accuracy in everything he does. However, Thiago will push you and push you more with one punch KO power and endless aggression. Lyoto has faced better competition by far, but I don't buy into him being a threat to finish anyone while the new Chute Boxe Silva looks to kill you without being reckless. If Lyoto wants to win this on points like he normally does, he'll have to survive a 3 round juggernaut who will not stop. I don't like those odds and have yet to buy into all the hype surrounding the karate fighter.
UPSET PICK WINNER-Thiago Silva by Rd.2 throttling
Light Heavyweight bout: Stephan Bonnar vs. Jon Jones "The American Psycho" did not fight in 2008 thanks to a bevvy of injuries and returns in great shape with his solid ground/submission game. Jon is undefeated at 7-0 which isn't a lot of fights and doesn't possess the ground game, though he may surprise Bonnar on the feet. Stephen has a good tested chin and will eventually impose his will and then we cut to the humorous promo.
WINNER-Stephen Bonnar by Rd.3 submission
Welterweight bout: Karo Parisyan vs. Dong Hyun Kim "The Heat" returns from his TKO loss to Thiago Alves in a little better shape, but much more humble, and fighting legitimate "anxiety disorder." The "Stun Gun" brings the exciting judo as well posing problems for Karo. The Donger has slick submissions but the striking for both men is adequate at best. Believe it or not, Karo has the better cardio and power to bedaze the gunner.
WINNER-Karo by close decision
Lightweight bout: Nate Diaz vs. Clay Guida Oooh, this is gonna be a barn burner. Nice to hear the fans just shower the constantly bouncing "Carpenter" with cheers at the weigh-ins while surprising Nate with boo's. Nate has sooo much reach and height here to keep Clay at bay with striking. If Guida gets it to the floor where he likes to work, Diaz long limbs twist and turn in a constant myriad of submissions. I love Guida and his beautiful flowing locks of hair, but there are glaringly obvious ways a plenty for him to lose though as always, he'll make it a great fight giving his full 100% at all times (including just heading to the ring).
WINNER-Nate Diaz by submission

Prelims
Welterweight bout: Jon Fitch vs. Akihiro Gono Everyone is teeming about Fitch going from "main event" to undercard, but he's playing it cool borrowing Gono's weigh-in afro and sporting it for the staredown to the delight of Akihiro and the fans. Zebra panties is very tough and has better striking, but Fitch is going to take him down, break him up, and stomp his will into submission, letting the world know he is still one of the best in the Welterweight division.
WINNER-Jon Fitch by Rd.2 TKO
Lightweight bout: Thiago Tavares vs. Manvel Gamburyan Provided "The Anvil" doesn't run headfirst into an oncoming truck like he did when he dashed into the fist of Rob Emerson for a 12 second loss, we could see a pretty good war here. Tavares keeps everyone scratching their heads with his recent back to back losses, but he brings great stand up and sick Jiu-Jitsu along with some Tony Danza hair this time. The takedowns and little engine that could style belong to Gamby, but a big reach advantage and supposedly better game expertise should help the war tested Brazilian find his way back into the win column. Close fight, hard to call.
WINNER-Tavares by decision but if he fails continuing to mirror his older twin Vitor Belfort in bewildering "you're better than that" letdowns, I'm out.
Welterweight bout: John Howard vs. Chris Wilson "The Professor" shocked everyone when he took Jon Fitch to the brink in his debut only to fall in a spirited loss. A decision win over Steve Bruno gets Wilson even in the UFC but with his great game planning and outrageous reach advantage in this fight, expect Chris to sprawl and brawl his way to picking apart Johnny on the feet.
WINNER-Chris Wilson via Rd.3 TKO
Light Heavyweight bout: Jake O'Brien vs. Christian Wellisch Both former Heavyweights make the move down to 205 where they are much better suited to compete. Jake is the amateur style wrestling machine that has been stopped in his last 2 fights by superior strikers (Arlovski, Velasquez). Christian is a less gifted wrestler but better striker (thank you AKA) who has been felled by the behemoths (Kongo, Carwin). The Irishman is going to his bread and butter taking the Hungarian down and doing the G&P thing for 3 rounds using his aesthetically pleasing "lay & pray" technique.
WINNER-O'Brien by decision
Welterweight bout: Matt Arroyo vs. Dan Cramer The debut of Cramer is ill-timed as his inexperience will show against a somewhat gifted submission fighter. Too many skills against a green rookie under the big lights.
WINNER-"No Regard" by Rd.2 submission

Thursday, January 29, 2009

Legend Helio Gracie Dead At 95

In the early morning of January 29th, Helio Gracie passed from this world into the next. The legendary inventor of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu died in his sleep at the age of 95.

Helio Gracie created the art of Jiu-Jitsu after training in Judo and deciding the technique took to much power for smaller individuals to execute properly. He then began a lifetime of developing the "Gracie Jiu-Jitsu" style. Focusing on ground fighting, grappling, and submission maneuvers, Jiu-Jitsu used leverage and technique to allow weaker people to defend themselves, or execute the art for victory in free fight competitions. Helio also believed that Jiu-Jitsu inspired self-confidence and physical fitness.

Helio was the only living 10th degree Jiu-Jitsu master changed the art of free fighting forever.

The patriarch of the legendary Gracie family, is survived by his wife Vera, sons Rickson, Royler, Rolker, Royce, Relson, Robin, and Rorion, as well as seven siblings.

Helio Gracie October 1, 1913 - January 29, 2009

Monday, January 26, 2009

Fedor Emenianenko Fun Facts and Post Affliction Funnery


Fedor's trainer Vladimir Voronov stated after Affliction, "He's obviously got unbelievable potential, but he had some distractions getting ready for this fight. The movie. The commercials. If Fedor wants to keep winning, and winning well, he needs to train professionally. Right now he won with his old tricks. The fact that Fedor won, don't get me wrong, I'm very happy about. But he won this fight because of the training before this fight. The experience he had before this fight. The trainers did everything we could to get him ready. But for title fights, we can't train the way we trained for this one."

Anyone else notice that Freddie Roach laughed off Fedor's boxing skills and said he couldn't fight backing up, then proceeded to KO Andrei Arlovski after a push kick had him back peddling? Hmmmm, maybe Roach should shut the fuck up and stick to boxing.

What a difference a fight makes. Most UFC/fanboy pundits had Anderson Silva the #1 "Pound 4 Pound" fighter, and after the Afflcition PPV, Emelianenko is now overwhelmingly #1 in Sherdog.com's poll after a victory over the #6 Heavyweight in the world.

Fedor has now soundly defeated 5 UFC Champions, Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira (twice), Kevin Randleman, Mark Coleman (twice), Tim Sylvia, and now Andrei Arlovski. Suck it Dana White.

Only Mark Coleman has gotten to the 2nd round with Fedor since 2005 with the other 6 fighters falling in the 1st round. Sorry Andrei, but Mark Hunt lasted longer in his 1 round defeat with Fedor, so move on into boxing, you didn't do shit. Lasting 3:14 is impressive for any human, but lets not red rocket the "Pitbull" too much for surviving before emphatic defeat.

Fedor doesn't want to fight top competition is a myth. The fact is the top competition doesn't want to fight Fedor. Randy Couture said in his own press conference on YouTube, that he was offered $3 million to fight Fedor in Bodog, but chose instead to take $300k (10 times less money) to re-sign with UFC to fight Tim Sylvia. Fabricio Werdum stated, "I'm not ready for the likes of Fedor." Need more proof? Listen to the wise words of Wanderlei Silva, "NOBODY wants to fight Fedor."


Some deserved adoration:

"Look, I've fought many people from around the world, so I've seen many strong fighters. But like him, never." - Renato Sobral

"Fedor has no weakness! I have seen so many fights, and even the best fighters in the world have a flaw in their game but I have yet to find one in Fedor Emelianenko." - Bas Rutten

"The best fighter to climb into ANY arena is Emelianenko Fedor. He is in his own league and you can't compare nobody." - Kevin Randleman


"Fedor is just too dominant, too good at punching people in the face. The way he punches people man he's trying to kill people, with both hands. He's in a whole different class by himself." -
Brandon Vera


In an interview Chuck Liddell said, "I'll fight anyone, Silva? Yeah sure, Quinton Jackson? Sure, Randy Couture? Sure."
Reporter: 'What about Fedor Emelianenko?'
Liddell: "Well if I'll have to...I'll fight him...if I have to."

"Where am I?" Matt Lindland

Fun Fedor Facts:
Favorite Actor

Bruce Willis (take that Van Damn)

Other sports he likes?

"Soccer, swimming and basketball."
Does he like traveling?
"Not really. I like staying home and being with my friends and family. I miss them when I am away."
What countries does he like to visit?
"Japan and the United States and any place that has scary roller coasters."
How would he like to be remembered in the sport?
"As someone that was a good ambassador of a growing sport, that always wanted to fight the best fighters and always gave the fans the best he could give."

On whether or not he will ever lose. "I don't know when it will happen, but it's inevitable that I will lose."

He has also said he'd like to end his career by losing his championship to another Russian fighter.

AFFLICTION Day Of Reckoning Results


Brett Cooper TKO's Patrick Speight while Albert Rios takes a decision over Antonio Duarte. L.C. Davis out points Bao Quach to quick-cap the also ran fights.
Antonio Rogerio Nogueira avenges a prior loss to Vladimir Matyushenko via knee KO. The 1st round had nothing except for some warranted boo's from a bored crowd. The 2nd saw Vlad rock "Lil Nog" and cut him open with a barrage of punches. Rogerio responds with a brutal knee to the body, followed by a straight left sets up the surprise end as the knee crushes the jaw of the "Janitor" restoring the Nogueira family name.
Dan Lauzon chokes out Bobby Green in a odd affair. Bobbo took the fight to "D-Lau" but landed a series of groin shots eventually causing referee Herb Dean to skip from a warning to a 2 point deduction. Perhaps afraid to lift his legs again, Green gets taken to the floor as Dan pulls guard and taps out the Green rookie. The nut shots were debatable but Bobby earned the fans for bringing the fight while Lauzon earns the Emmy and the win.
Paul Buentello just took apart Kirill Sidelnikov with far superior striking via the jab mainly, causing the doctor to stop the contest in the 3rd. Kirill definitely has a granite jaw, but also a lot to learn as he tries to game up against the more experienced warriors.
Renato Sobral Anaconda chokes Thierry Sokoudjou into submission setting up his future bout with Frito WhOrtits. Jokeadjou has no business fighting in the big leagues as he gives up in fights faster than Predator dices Aliens. Babs grins knowing he isn't even trying anymore and can still get the win minus serious training. That will not be the case if he cruises into the fight with Tito.
Vitor Belfort KO'd Matt Lindland so brutally that you could not even enjoy it until 10 minutes later when "The Law" took off the neck brace and emerged from the myriad of EMT's. Scary but impressive as Vitor continues to emerge at Middleweight and the light at the end of the tunnel dims for the aging Lindland.
Josh Barnett actually had to work to submit Gilbert Yvel taking 3 rounds of ground and pound to force the cheater to tapout. Yvel's grit was surprising but not the outcome and Barnett gets the WAMMA title shot.
Fedor Emelianenko started slow but quickly evened up the fight with Andrei Arlovski as the "Pitbull" got put down as he threw a flying knee that "The Last Emperor" countered with a right hand that shattered the solid glass jaw of the Belrus native and laid the overconfident Arlovski out on the canvas like a sleeping baby. A lot was made of the fact that Andrei did ok and survived the opening minutes with Fedor, but lets not go crazy and remember the outcome. The Red Devil leader gets the job done with poise and quiet confidence as always.
Jay Hieron KO's Jason High with a left hook in the unseen swing bout that lasted 1:04.
Affliction's production was absolutely awful. It looked as though they had no editor for the graphics (i.e.-Matt Lindland 200 Silver Medalist etc.), and the skinny cartoonish crackhead wolfman jack aper, who cut some of the most nonsensical interviews along with Frank "Zito" Stallone whose Cosa Nostra kin ran security along with handling the envelopes that went in the pillow case. But kudos to the genius who tapped Tito Ortiz to butcher the color commentary as well as the post fight interviews that could not be heard over the shower of boo's that covered the human bobblehead like the milk rain that ends his wife/cum dumpster Jenna Jameson's movies. I'd rather hear Bill Goldberg any day. Cheers to ring announcer Smiley McSmiles who grins while simultaneously speaking, causing a scene more creepy than a NAMBLA reunion. Just horrid horrible schecanery surrounding a pretty good fight card and PPV. Fire everyone and hire Frank Trigg and Mauro Renallo and that is all you fucking need!

Fedor and Barnett is next if Affliction survives to put on another PPV in spite of themselves. Buentello vs Yvel would create stand up fireworks while I'd rather see "Lil Nog" embarrass Ortiz. Stuff and things stuff and things we go 8-2 on the picks again.

Friday, January 23, 2009

AFFLICTION: Day Of Reckoning Picks & Predictions

PPV Fights
WAMMA Heavyweight Champion Fedor Emelianenko vs. Andrei "The Pitbull" Arlovski "The Last Emperor" returns from the heavens to take on the Belarus rival who is already looking to go pro in boxing before he faces the greatest of all time. Barring a lucky hay maker or unfortunate cut, Fedor will time Arlovski's strikes, wear him down, and beat the living hell outta Andrei breaking his soul, gassing him out, and forcing a G&P tapout just before the submission is locked on.
WINNER-Fedor Emelianenko by however he chooses
Heavyweight bout: Josh Barnett vs. Gilbert Yvel All the Yvel is a piece of cheating shit and should not be allowed to fight in the states aside (though it is true), he is a vaunted striker with K-1 ability and not much else. Barnett isn't going to try and hang on the feet here, taking Yvel down and tapping him with ease.
WINNER-Josh Barnett by catch wrestling attack and vicious promo
Light Heavyweight bout: Renato Sobral vs. Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou "Babalu" meanders into another fight where you wonder if he can get excited enough to stop a guy he should beat handily, and the cardio questions still abound for a guy who has looked very bored recently. "Predator Head" doesn't do much after the 1st minute, so Babs should whether the early storm and strike back taking this to the floor where he taps out the quick to quit Team Quester. The formula, avoid the early onslaught, tire Soko out, watch for the desperation overhand punch, and grind him till his will breaks as it has so many times before.
WINNER-Babalu by Rd 2. submission
Middleweight bout: Matt Lindland vs. Vitor Belfort Vitor has been working his ass off with Randy Couture and Sean Thompkins while Lindland has been working on the farm. The inactivity for Matt is huge as his fight cardio can't be up to par against a Vitor who will stick and move, picking at Matt with the jab and avoiding the takedowns. If taken down, a grind out could be scary but Vitor's camp expects the power early against the rusty 38 year old.
UPSET PICK WINNER-Vitor Belfort by decision
Heavyweight bout: Paul Buentello vs. Kirill Sidelnikov Fedor's "boy" brings inexperience in a stand up war with the "Headhunter." Still, "Baby Fedor" is a striker as well and neither man wants to go to the floor or the distance (in shape, not so much). I believe Paul's head movement and striking skills are far above the youngsta. Power is equal but look for Buentello to strike like a pro, and his boxing is waaay underrated, not to mention he has to have this fight for his career.
WINNER-Buentello by TKO Rd.3
Lightweight bout: Dan Lauzon vs. Bobby Green Chris Horodecki wanted to fight but the Athletic Commission would not allow it via a bulging disc in his back restricting his right arm movement. Tough kid and I look forward to seeing Bas Rutten's protege back in action. Danny has the ground arsenal to take out the gifted last second addition striker while avoiding a dangerous exchange.
WINNER-Dan Lauzon Rd.3 submission
HDNet matches
Light Heavyweight bout: Vladimir Matyushenko vs. Antonio Rogerio Nogueira (Rematch) Vlad won the 1st meeting by head smashing slam, but that was back in 2oo2 and the Russian is now 37 years old. The only IFL Light Heavyweight Champion likes to grind people out with hard nosed work has an 8-fight winning streak. "Lil Nog" looks to re-establish the family name with that Jiu-Jitsu prowess and boxing skill he is known for. I see this fight as a decision all the way but Vlad has looked much better in recent fights and kinda heat a hot streak while "Minotoro" has looked sluggish at best in recent activity.
UPSET PICK WINNER-"The Janitor" by decision
Welterweight bout: Jay Hieron vs. Jason High Randy Couture's right hand man left the IFL as Welterweight Champion and is looking to establish himself in the conversation for top Welterweights not owned by the UFC. Jay has improved his stand up and always brings solid wrestling. Jason is a 6-0 power striker able to knock you out in an instant but lacks the experience against the 20 fight pro who trains with Xtreme Couture and will fight carefully to ensure a win.
WINNER-Jay Hieron by decision
Featherweight bout: Bao Quach vs. LC Davis Mark Hominick pulls out due to injury and Bao steps in. Riding in on a 9-fight winning streak, Quach trains with Team Oyama and is a well rounded fighter. LC has a nice 12-1 record with ability to finish anyone in many ways. Very exciting fighter and really a nice prospect bordering on contender at 145 lbs.
WINNER-LC Davis by Rd.2 TKO
Featherweight bout: Albert Rios vs. Antonio Duarte "Tigre" brings wicked game against an ultra-tough Rios. Still, the Featherweight realm is newer to me but Duarte takes the tough battle via attrition.
WINENR- Tigre Duarte by decision
Welterweight bout: Brett Cooper vs. Patrick Speight Brett brings the crazy hair along with good striking and an ability to be submitted. Spigot comes off his 1st career loss in KOTC looking to strike early and often. Cooper's Samson like hair proves the difference maker.
WINNER-Cooper by TKO rd.2

Thursday, January 22, 2009

PFC 12 To Stream Live For Free On Sherdog.com

The Sherdog Radio Network's TJ De Santis will broadcast live from ringside on Thursday, Jan. 22.
PFC Flyweight Championship
Rambaa Somdet vs. Pat Runez
PFC Bantamweight Championship
Shawn Klarcyk vs. Jeff Bedard
PFC Featherweight Championship
Jorge Evangelista vs. Diego Saraiva
PFC Lightweight Championship
Brian Cobb vs. Lance Wipf
PFC Interim Welterweight Championship
Olaf Alfonso vs. Jeremiah Metcalf
Cyrille Diabate vs. Lodune Sincaid
Xavier Foupa-Pokam vs. Kyacey Uscola
Lavar Johnson vs. Dave Huckaba
Billy Evangelista vs. Harris Sarmiento
Evan Dunham vs. Dustin Akbari
John Gunderson vs. Alexander Crispim
Tito Jones vs. Justin Smitley
Jason Georgianna vs. Michael McDonald
Phil Davis vs. Josh Green

The best MMA website Sherdog.com does it again streaming a good MMA fight card from Palace Fighting Championships for free Thursday the 22nd!

Affliction "Day Of Reckoning" Presser Pictures


Jeff Monson Creates Some Anarchy

Jeff Monson has been charged with first-degree malicious mischief for spray-painting the peace sign, the anarchy symbol, and the phrases “No war” and “No poverty” on the Washington capital building on Nov. 26. ESPN The Magazine documented Monson’s protest while trailing the politically minded fighter for a feature that ran in its Dec. 29 issue. Monson was documented defacing the monument in one of the article’s accompanying photographs, which led Washington officials to the suspect. The act carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine. Monson (27-8) told Sherdog.com last Thursday that he hadn’t regretted his protest and that he’d intended to turn himself in to authorities.
Then on Tuesday, authorities were called to the residence of Stephanie Trapani and detained Monson for “assault to a female” and “damage to property” following an alleged domestic dispute, said Capt. Hartman of Davies County Sheriff’s Office. Trapani was also arrested for damage to Monson’s property. The Olympian reported Monday that Trapani had discarded Monson’s cell phone after finding out he was involved in romantic relationships with other women. “He destroyed my house," Trapani told The Olympian on Monday. "He started just bashing holes in the walls and the columns." Trapani said Monson also grabbed her during the argument.
The decorated world grappling champion said he didn’t believe his pending arrest for vandalism would taint his career and that he’d planned to fight next for World Victory Road’sSengoku” promotion this March in Japan where he would earn his highest paycheck to date (reportedly $250,000). That may not hold true with these new charges as the "Snowman" lives up to his Anarchy beliefs causing havoc in his own personal life.

Sunday, January 18, 2009

UFC 93: Cardio Collapse In Ireland

Dan Henderson defeated Rich Franklin via split decision in the UFC 93 "Main Event" in Ireland. Dan got a lot of takedowns to his credit, but it was Rich who seemed to outpoint the Team Quest founder in the stand up game. An accidental headbutt and eye poke from Dan didn't help matters much for "Ace," but he gassed Hendo (which would become a theme at this PPV) and seemed to dominate the 3rd for the victory. The judges saw it another way and give a close win to Henderson who now leaves to coach on the newest season of TUF against Micheal Bisping and a future bout. Rich no doubt continues to plug along at Light Heavyweight but must be shaking his head at this outcome.
Mauricio "Shogun" Rua defeated Mark Coleman via TKO in Round 3 to win their rematch. Coleman lasted a full minute into the fight before he was sucking wind but Shogun took his time striking slowly and getting taken down over and over only to almost submit the "Hammer." The 2nd saw the same action with Rua winning easily and Mark looking about 140 years old. Finally in the 3rd, Coleman just stood there, leaning against the cage, hands down, and breathing so heavily you thought he would collapse from lack of oxygen before strikes. To add to the excitement, the "reborn" Rua completely gassed as well pitter patter punching until Coleman finally fell and Shogun was awarded the victory. This fight was just plain ugly with Mark having no business fighting and Shogun looking like shit against a can. Chuck Liddell has already been tapped to fight Mauricio for the "Main Event" at UFC 97, yet another PPV nobody should order.
Rousimar Palhares defeated Jeremy Horn via unanimous decision as expected but not in dramatic fashion of any sort.
Alan Belcher defeated Denis Kang by submission (guillotine choke). Kang was winning the fight and just fell into Belcher's guard and a choke the quickly tapped the vaunted prospect. Shockingly, it seemed as if Denis gassed as well a bit but mainly just keeps the "Pride Curse" alive.
Marcus Davis bests Chris Lytle by Split-Decision in a decent fight that was hyped up waaaay too much. Pretty good throwdown but Davis has more technical striking and guess what, Chris got exhausted toward the end of the fight. Davis was definitely better, but if Chris ever joined a real camp like ATT or AKA he could tighten up that sloppy striking and focus on becoming a legit threat in the Welterweight division.
John Hathway defeats Tom Egan who had no business being there.
Martin Kampmann destroys Alexandre Barros via TKO in his Welterweight debut looking the most impressive out of anyone on this card.
Eric Schafer schools Antonio Mendes via TKO ruining my "Upset Pick" but congrats to the ginger anyway.
Thomasz Drwal punches out Ivan Serati as expected in 1 round while Dennis Siver took it to the 3rd before stopping Nate Mohr with strikes.


So what have we learned here kids? Hendo will go on to TUF while Rich kinda mulls around the Light Heavyweight scene trying to stay relevant. Shogun is not back and in fact looks as if he will be crushed by the "Iceman" in their once dream match. Jeremy Horn should retire along with Mark Coleman and he can join him in the UFC "Hall of Fame." The "Talent" will continue to do not much in the Middleweight division and Kang needs to check his heart if he is going to fight in the UFC at any sort of high level. Kampmann will be a force though probably not a champion and the Eric is a mid-level guy. Perhaps training cardio should be on every one's New Year's resolutions this year, and the UFC needs to trim their roster and put together some decent PPV's. The coming storm is gonna suck. 8-2 on the picks which is about par for the course. Bet.

Thursday, January 15, 2009

UFC 93 Comes To Ireland: Picks & Prognostications


Main Card
Light Heavyweight bout: Rich Franklin vs. Dan Henderson The winner of this Light Heavyweight bout goes on to the next season of TUF to fight Michael Bisping at Middleweight. Makes sense right? At anywho, these 2 well rounded amazing fighters are going to put on a show in Ireland. Both are smart fighters who gameplan well and are talented no matter where the fight goes. The only strength I can see for either man is Dan has that iron chin and brick of a right hand, while Rich has been KO'd before and not devastating striking power. If keeping his distance using leg kicks and reach advantage, Franklin can take this on points while Hendo wants a dirty ground fight with his sloppy striking and inyoface action. I see Henderson frustrating "Ace" with his unorthodox punching and getting this fight to the floor where Rich absorbs punishment but isn't put away.
WINNER-Dan Henderson by decision
Light Heavyweight bout: Mark Coleman vs. Mauricio Rua Is anyone really going to pick the 44 year old 1 dimensional Hammer House relic? Coleman looks like an X-Files extra debuting at Light Heavyweight and besides a lucky break (literally) against Rua last time, what can he offer against a man with better stamina, far superior striking, Jiu-Jitsu which Mark has none of, and a desire of redemption against a man who claims a victory against him? Shogun is revamped, in shape, and healthy.
WINNER-Shogun by TKO rd.2
Middleweight bout: Alan Belcher vs. Denis Kang Denis Kang makes his long awaited debut in the UFC bringing his 42 fights of experience against some of the best Middleweights in the world. Belcher is no can but Kang has seen better and if he fights smart with his hands up he should take this bout for a successful debut.
WINNER-Denis Kang by submission
Welterweight bout: Marcus Davis vs. Chris Lytle The projected "Fight Of The Night" in every one's picks has the 2 exciting brawlers throwing bombs (or grenades in Mark's case) till the other man falls. A great war for the Irish fans but can you really pick against the Irishman in his homeland? I think not. Marcus Davis gets the biggest pop of the night when he puts away Lytle like the IRA put away the Black & Tans.
WINNER-The Irish Hand Grenade
Middleweight bout: Jeremy Horn vs. Rousimar Palhares I don't like "Gumby's" chances here at all. Designed as a submission expo, Horn's 104th fight will more likely be a passing of the torch, as "Toquinho" bests the teacher with superior power and a more advanced submission set.
WINNER-Rousimar by submission Rd. 1

Prelims
Welterweight bout: Martin Kampmann vs. Alexandre Barros Kampmann makes a run at 170 after being out-sized at Middleweight. Barros is a "live" fighter who can give anyone fits, but his striking can't hang with the Denmark native looking to rebound while across the North Sea his homeland cheers one of their own.
WINNER-The Hitman buy Sharpshooter (I may have used this joke before)
Light Heavyweight bout: Eric Schafer vs. Antonio Mendes Here Mendes has a chance at an upset against a guy who is a ground warrior who has already taken out many big strikers like Antonio. I hate to pick against a "red" especially in Ireland, but the impressive loss against Thiago Silva and Schafer's inconsistency leads me to the ATT Brazilian.
UPSET PICK WINNER-Samuray by TKO
Light Heavyweight bout: Tomasz Drwal vs. Ivan Serati Well well, another Thiago Silva victim coming for a win against a talented Italian. Unproven in the spotlight, both men look to gain footing in the UFC Light Heavyweight division in a sleeper fight that could yeild exciting results. Keep breathing Drwal and punch him out on the feet, or face a nap on the floor.
WINNER-Tomasz by TKO if he doesn't gas out
Welterweight bout: Thomas Egan vs John Hathaway Holy shit, its a Brit vs. an Irishman! Expect a lot of boo's in this one as Hathaway putsaway the rookie Egan on the floor.
WINNER-The Brit by submission
Lightweight bout: Nate Mohr vs.
Dennis Siver Spregenzy German for z eazy vin ya?
WINNER-Siver by goodentaug

Wednesday, January 07, 2009

New Fedor Emelianenko Interview

Fedor Emelianenko responds to Andrei Arlovski, Freddie Roach, and Dana White in exclusive interview with 5 Oz. of Pain
January 7, 2009 by Sam Caplan
There are just 17 days until Fedor Emelianenko defends his WAMMA heavyweight title against former UFC heavyweight champion Andrei Arlovski during Affliction and M-1’s “Day of Reckoning” on January 24 in Anaheim, California.
Sam Caplan: You train in your home town of Stary Oskol, which is very isolated from the rest of the world. With so many world class camps popping up that have some many top coaches and training partners, why do you choose to keep things simple?
Fedor Emelianenko: My training is not simple. I believe I train harder than anyone else in the world. The strength and power I obtain can only [be done so] here in Russia. I feed off my surroundings and I do not believe I would be as prepared if I trained somewhere else. I like to have everything I love around me when I train.
Sam Caplan: During a recent press conference to promote “Day of Reckoning,” Andrei Arlovski questioned the sincerity of a statement you made last month regarding the your loss at the Combat Sambo Championships. Can you respond to that statement?
Fedor Emelianenko: Maybe Andrei is trying to convince himself that I have been weakened in some way. But it [doesn’t] matter [as] we are not fighting Sambo with Andrei. The only thing I am 100 percent sure about is that I will be 100 percent ready to fight MMA against Andrei. And that is the only thing I care about right now.

Sam Caplan: One of Arlovski’s trainers, famed boxing trainer Freddie Roach, questioned some aspects of your standup from a technical boxing perspective, most notably your footwork. Do you feel Roach’s criticisms are relevant to MMA?
Fedor Emelianenko: The beauty about MMA is that every fighter has his own unique style and preferences. But it’s not a beauty contest. We fight to see which fighter’s approach prevails. But again, we are not boxing and we are not fighting Sambo. We fight MMA.
Sam Caplan: How do you feel about an opponent’s trainer saying picking a part your standup like that?
Fedor Emelianenko: Sometimes it is a trainer’s job to point out weaknesses in his fighter’s opponents. And sometimes it is a trainer’s job to convince his fighter that his opponent has weaknesses. We will see.
Sam Caplan: During a recent radio interview, UFC president Dana White once again made some negative remarks about you. He especially tried to discredit your victory over Tim Sylvia. Could you respond to that statement?
Fedor Emelianenko: I think if Dana White says something negative about his [former] champions then he is only saying something negative about his own organization. I have victories over many of the UFC’s champions. If he says something bad about them or me then he only makes his organization look weak.
Sam Caplan: White has said many negative things about you in the past. Is it at a point where he has burned a bridge with you, or would you still consider fighting in a promotion he’s involved with under the right circumstances?
Fedor Emelianenko: I do not pay too much attention to what Dana White says in the media. He is trying to sell one thing as good and make you not buy another thing by saying it is bad. I just want to fight the best fighters in the world. I am lucky that the best heavyweight fighters in the world right now are with M-1 Global and Affliction. If the situation is right and there is someone really good in the UFC that will fight me, then I would be fine fighting [for] them.
Sam Caplan: If you fought for the UFC, do you think Dana would be referring to you as the number one heavyweight in the world?
Fedor Emelianenko: (Laughs) I think if I fought for the UFC, he would try to sell me as the greatest MMA fighter that ever lived.
Sam Caplan: White has blamed your management as the reason why you are not in the UFC. Do you agree with his assessment?
Fedor Emelianenko: No.
Sam Caplan: There have also been questions raised about how much control you have over your career. Could you set the record straight and comment who has the final say in regard to who has final say: you or your management?
Fedor Emelianenko: It depends on the decisions. I am not a specialist in some thing. Sometimes I make the decisions and sometimes we make them together. If I stop fighting tomorrow, I stop. If I want to fight Sambo, I fight. If I need to finish my training camp and miss a press conference, I need to. But I am lucky to have good management with my team, M-1 Global. I am part of M-1 Global so it is easy to make decisions together.
Sam Caplan: White has proclaimed Anderson Silva the number one pound-for-pound fighter in the world. Do you have any interest in fighting Silva and if so, how do you see that fight going down?
Fedor Emelianenko: If this was a fight that the fans would want, why not? I also never make predictions on how a fight will turn out.
Sam Caplan: M-1 USA Vice President Jerry Millen made the statement that in a fight with Brock Lesnar, he would not make it past the first round against you. Do you agree with that assessment?
Fedor Emelianenko: I just do not like to make predictions [because] anything can happen in a ring. Lesnar has some natural talent. It would be an interesting fight for fans to see.
Sam Caplan: Your protege, Kirill “Baby Fedor” Sidelnikov will also be competing at “Day of Reckoning.” At only 20-years of age, do you think he’s ready for such a high-profile match against a seasoned veteran such as Paul Buentello?
Fedor Emelianenko: Kirill has improved greatly with his fights in the M-1 Challenge and helped out Red Devil Team reach the world finals. I think Buentello is a good test for Kirill but I know Kirill is ready.
Sam Caplan: During some recent interviews you revealed that you weren’t looking forward to a possible fight vs. Randy Couture because he’s a friend. But if he were to suddenly to become a free agent, would you refuse the fight?
Fedor Emelianenko: I would not refuse the fight because I believe Randy and I are both ambassadors for the sport of MMA and we would help grow the sport very much with the fight. This was the main reason why I wanted to fight Randy, even if it meant to fight someone I admired.
Sam Caplan: If you are able to defeat Arlovski, it’s been said your next fight could come against the winner of the Barnett vs. Yvel fight. It’s also been said that you are friends with Barnett. You said you weren’t looking forward to fight Couture because he’s a friend, so how do you feel about the possibility of facing him?
Fedor Emelianenko: Yes, Josh and I are friends. But once again, the best should fight the best for [the good] of the sport of MMA. It would be okay.
Sam Caplan: Ideally, how many times would you like to fight in 2009?
Fedor Emelianenko: God willing, it will be nice to fight three times in 2009 and have one more fight New Year’s Eve

Sunday, January 04, 2009

Sengoku No Ran Results (Champions Crowned)


Hidetada Irie TKO's Minoru Kato in Rd.2
Maximo "Man Possessed" Blanco jumped all over Seigo Inoue, and though he got caught in an armbar, he curb stomped his way out of it leaving Seigo in a heap.
Mu Bae Choi beat Dave Herman by TKO in Rd.2 "Pee-Wee" should be embarrassed of his poor performace against a man he was supposed to slaughter. Here's a tip, don't stand straight up hands down for a striking war, and perhaps work on some cardio if you are going to fight more than 1 round. Eiji Mitsuoka took out Sergey Golyaev via armbar submission taking the Red Devil out.
Antonio "Bigfoot" Silva was technically better in spades over Yoshihiro "Kiss" Nakao and a knee injury caused the official end, Silva had this bout whenever he wanted to end it.
Muhammed "Annoying As Shit" Lawal TKO'd Yukiya Naito in another eh affair. Till "King Mo" fights somebody good I'm not going to flip out over him like most in the MMA world are doing. He's got an annoying shtick and won't shut the fuck up, but we have yet to see just how good this cat can be.
Sanae Kikuta won via Split Decision Hidehiko Yoshida in the Judoka war.
Jorge Santiago took almost the entire 5 rounds to put away Kazuo Misaki. Finally, Sengoku's 1st Middleweight Champion was crowned when he locked in the RNC putting Misaki to sleep.
Satoru Kitaoka took only 1:41 to submit Takanori Gomi with an Achilles lock. No time for excuses for an obviously disappointed Gomi, but this loss could set up a rematch with Sergey Golyaev who got a bewildering decision win from the judges against the "Fireball Kid" in November. Satoru becomes the 1st Sengoku Lightweight Champion and the bulls eye is now on his back.

K-1 Dynamite: Power Of Courage 2008 Results


Ikuhisa "Punk" Minowa subs big Errol Zimmerman by "toe hold"in Rd.1
Daisuke Nakamura subs Hideo Tokoroby armbar in Rd.1
Andy Ologun shocks everyone by actually winning a fight by KOing Yukio Sakaguchi in Rd.1 Bob Sapp fought Akihito Tanaka, a masked "Pro Wrestler" by TKO proving the "Beast" is still a sideshow attraction and not a legit MMA fighter.
Semmy Schilt used his 10 foot long legs to submit Siala Siliga with a nice triangle choke. I wonder what could happen if the near 7'0" fighter made a run at real opponents?
Hayato "Mach" Sakurai TKO's Katsuyori Shibata to win 2 in a row after dropping an upset loss to David Baron. Back on track lets see Mach back in title contention. A bevy of good opponents await such as Eddie Alvarez, Joachim Hansen, JZ, and Aoki.
Mirko Filipovic chopped down Hong Man Choi injuring the 7'2" "Goliath's" left leg. What is most surprising about this fight is that "Cro Cop" stated that he will fight 3 more times in DREAM next year and then plans to retire with a final fight in the UFC! However, he is taking the 1st 6 months off to have yet another knee surgery. Fitting those 3 fights into the other 6 months of 2009 seems unlikely but it will be fascinating to watch Cro Cop wind down his career to see where he will stand in the history of MMA.
Melvin Manhoef clocked Mark Hunt unconscious in a mere 18 seconds of their bout!. Outweighed by 50 lbs., Manho struck, needing only 2 punches as Hunt came charging in giving the New Zealander his 1st KO loss in MMA. A big upset and Mark has now dropped his last 4 fights!
Shinya Aoki subbed the seemingly always over zealous Eddie Alvarez with a heel hook in the 1st stanza. Aoki then called out BJ Penn citing his will to "fight the best in the world." Hmmm, could be interesting.
Kiyoshi Tamura defeated Kazushi Sakuraba by decision. Continue your "Sakuraba should retire" conversations.