UFC 137 Penn vs Diaz Picks & Prognostications

UFC 137: Penn vs. Diaz
October 29, 2011
Mandalay Bay Events Center
Las Vegas, Nevada

Main Bouts (PPV):
B.J. Penn (16-7-2) vs. Nick Diaz (25-7) The two Gracie trained fighters meet in the main event after Diaz was pulled from the main event with Georges St. Pierre and replaced by Carlos Condit, thus creating this bout as the co-main event until GSP got hurt and is now Diaz is the main event again. Got that? Diaz comes in as the Strikeforce Welterweight Champion who has won 10 in a row with a sick volume of striking and his patented slick Jiu-Jitsu. The "Prodigy" is coming off the Draw loss to Jon Fitch and is a former two division UFC champion. Though Diaz will look to push the pace via a barrage of strikes, BJ will be better technically standing while the ground may be even. What Penn has that Nick does not is wrestling. Penn showed against vaunted wrestler Fitch that he can play that game and dominate as long as he doesn't completely gas himself out. Diaz wants to drag his opponents into a slugfest but Baby J should be smarter than that. Penn will take some punishment but has faced the elite of MMA while playing chameleon to his opponents talents. Nick has shown wrestling is his Achilles heel and if floored, I don't see BJ falling into his Jiu-Jitsu traps. Look for Penn to land some bombs early, realize the stand up is too tiring for him, and then take Nick to the mat where he roughs him up for the judges nod in a possible "Fight Of The Year."

WINNER-BJ Penn by Decision

Cheick Kongo (16-6-2) vs. Matt Mitrione (5-0) Kongo is an average fighter in an above average body. People get so caught up in his massive appearance that they forget how mediocre his game actually is. Kongo was KO'd twice in his last bout and won by shocking comeback simply because of terrible officiating. This is a big step up in competition for "Meathead" but one he is ready for. Matt is simply more fluid than the rigid and slow Kongo while employing highly underrated kicks and though we have not seen any ground from Mitrione, nothing Cheick does on the mat is going to catch anyone off guard. Mitrione will put his combinations together and slowly pull away in this fight if he doesn't stop Kongo who was felled against Pat Barry (Matt's friend and training partner) and Frank Mir. Look at Cheick's record is very telling and he'll never get out of the middle of the pack while Mitrione continues to improve quicker than anyone ever expected.

WINNER-Matt Mitrione by Decision

Mirko Filipovic (27-9-2) vs. Roy Nelson (15-6) I don't understand all the hate on "Big Country" these days. The jolly guy lost to Junior Dos Santos (#1 contender) and Frank Mir while in Denver's high altitude and with pneumonia. People say he isn't training hard but they really are just judging the man by his appearance. Roy has heavy, heavy hands, decent foot work, and very good grappling. He also has not had endurance issues save for the Mir fight in which he was ill. Now he refuses to take off his shirt at the weigh-ins while obviously wearing a fat suit and my theory that he has lost a lot of weight looks better than ever. I had this feeling Nelson is snowing everyone with the homeless looking beard and majestic mullet to keep people from noticing what he has really been doing which is training hard. "Cro Cop" comes in for the final fight on his Zuffa contract and just trying to put something decent together before his looming retirement. Though his recent knee and back surgeries are supposed to give us the "Cro Cop" of old, I think we are waiting for the cemetery kick that will never come again. Time is a bitch and though I love Mirko's chutzpah, he has not evolved while his opponents have. "Big Country" is going to take Mirko down if he has any trouble standing which I doubt. I just hope "Cro Cop" is still standing on his own at the end of this bout though I doubt it.

WINNER-Roy Nelson by Rd.2 TKO

Scott Jorgensen (12-4) vs. Jeff Curran (33-13-1) "Big Frog" actually asked for the "Vitalligo Warrior" in his return to the UFC bout. That was a huge mistake. Curran has transitioned well to a trainer but he has nothing for Scotty. This will be dominant and will be quick. Enjoy your last dance Curran.

WINNER-Scott Jorgensen by Rd.1 TKO

Hatsu Hioki (24-4-2) vs. George Roop (12-7-1) Hioki is the "final hope for Japan" bla bla bla. Besides all the tired rhetoric, Hatsu is a very good and well rounded fighter. Roop has played the spoiler a lot in recent times Upsetting Josh Grispi and Chan Sung Jung but he just isn't a top level guy. Hatsu really opened my eyes beating Marlon Sandro in Japan and the train doesn't derail here. There may be big dance jitters early, but there will be a tapout late.

WINNER-Hatsu Hioki by Rd.3 Submission

Prelims (Spike TV):
Dennis Siver (19-7) vs. Donald Cerrone (16-3) Its interesting to me how everyone is suddenly on the covered band wagon of the "Cowboy" when as he was nearing the end of the WEC days, most pundits thought he would wash out of the UFC. I have always thought he was a piece or two away from being complete and it all came together when he avenged a previous loss to Jaime Varner in January of '09. Now Cerrone is rolling in the UFC winning his last 5 bouts including schooling Lightweight prospect Charles Oliveira in only 3 minutes last out. Ze German has also been getting to work winning 4 in a row as both men eye the top of the division. Don has a massive reach advantage over his mini-T-Rex opponent who is solid as they come though he has tapped 4 times in his career. Cerrone is going to kickbox early until he decides to take things to the floor where Siver finds himself outmatched and out gunned. Possible "Fight Of The Night" candidate here with some exciting moments in a close combat.

WINNER-Donald Cerrone by Decision

Tyson Griffin (15-5) vs. Bart Palaszewski (35-4) Everyone and their dog has clamored for Griffin to return to Featherweight where he began his career and now he finally does. Unfortunately, he failed to make the weight by 3 pounds and loses part of his fight purse for it. "Bartimus" is also journeying to 145 but he made weight like a professional. If, and I say if, the weight cut, or lack thereof, didn't completely drain Tyson, he is a better fighter everywhere the fight could go. I thought Tyson looked weak and wobbly at the weigh-ins but if he is re hydrated properly, it should be his night.

WINNER-Tyson Griffin by Decision

Prelims (Facebook):
Brandon Vera (11-5) vs. Eliot Marshall (10-3) The "Truth" is that Vera has returned because Thiago Silva, who destroyed Brandon's nose, submitted fake urine to the athletic commission and was bounced for a year. Vera gets his millionth chance to stay employed and Zuffa throws him a softball in TUF washout and all around eh fighter Eliot. If there is 10% of the old Vera still in Brandon, he wins this easily.

WINNER-Brandon Vera by Rd.2 TKO

Ramsey Nijem (4-2) vs. Danny Downes (8-2) Nijem is one of those people who thinks he is funny when he is actually just annoying (isn't that right Pat Barry). I don't see what the "experts" see in this jackass while "Danny Boy" made everyone a fan when he survived on pure heart last out against the powerful Jeremy Stephens. Daniel may look like a high school kid that would get beat up in an instant but he has incredible heart and great training at Roufusport. I like Danny here with more smarts and experience to prove Nijem 1 dimensional and thus flawed.

Upset Pick WINNER-Danny Downes by Rd.3 Submission

Chris Camozzi (14-4) vs. Francis Carmont (16-7) Why the hell is "Grenade Chest" back in the UFC. Did someone in management lose a bet? Does he have compromising pictures of Dana White? Carmont isn't going to set the world on fire but he does have enough to out point Chris if'n he doesn't stomp him out.

WINNER-Francis Carmont by Decision

Dustin Jacoby (6-0) vs. Clifford Starks (7-0) Two undefeated wrestlers that should be interesting to watch but Starks is a little further along in his game at this point.

WINNER-Clifford Starks by Decision

Bellator 56 Askren vs Hieron Picks & Prognostications

Bellator 56
October 29, 2011

Memorial Hall
Kansas City, Kansas

Main Card
Welterweight Champion Ben Askren vs. Jay Hieron Jay didn't exactly blow away the Welterweight tournament field as many expected, instead squeaking by while cocky Ben continues to dominate people on the ground with excellent wrestling skills and absolutely nothing else. Boring fighter? Yes. Effective fighter? Yes. Training at Roufusport will help improve the offense, but probably not yet. Still, the more well rounded guy is simply going to get owned on the mat just like everyone else.

WINNER-Ben Askren by Decision

Bellator Season 5 Heavyweight Tournament Semifinals
Ron Sparks vs. Eric Prindle Not sure the "Ginger Goliath's" tactic of wearing down his opponent will work here. Sparks dummies people in round 1 before they can even get the game plan going. If it goes to round 2 its Eric's to lose but I'm not seeing it.

WINNER-Ron Sparks Rd.1 KO

Thiago Santos vs. Neil Grove Blagoi Ivanof pulled out of the tournament and so Grove gets in after losing to Michael PS Hayes by Split-Decision at the beginning of the month. Neil did break Mike's orbital bone in the process so now Thiago is in. I actually like the more inexperienced fighter to take things to the mat showing the Brit's glaring weakness FTW.

WINNER- Thiago Santos by Rd.2 Submission

Prelims
Daniel Gallemore vs. Derrick Ruffin W-Gallemore
Marcio Navarro vs. Rudy Bears W-Da Bears
Adam Schindler vs. Jeremy Spoon W-Spoon
Kelvin Tiller vs. Dan Spohn W-Spohn
William De Souza vs. Emanuel Brooks W-Brooks
Jeimeson Saudino vs. Jacob Aiken W-Clay Aiken
Aaron Ely vs. Owen Evinger W-Ely Ely

8-2 on Bellator 55 picks which I never got around to updating.

Bellator 55 Picks & Prognostications

Bellator 55 Bantamweight Tournament Semi-Finals
October 22, 2011

Cocopah Resort and Casino
Yuma, Arizona

Main Bouts:

Bantamweight Tournament Semi-Finals
Marcos Galvao vs. Alexis Vila The "Exorcist" exorcised Bellator Featherweight Champion Joe Warren in brutal fashion giving the cocky wrestler his 1st KO loss leaving him stiff as a board and silenced in the ring in his last outing. Now Vila is on everyone's radar and the solid 40 year old wrestler is the favorite to win it all. "Louro" squeaked by the now lackluster Chase Beebe but his 4 losses have come to top tier talent while looking for the judges nod. Galvao may train alongside Jose Aldo with Nova Uniao but he's no "Scarface." Alexis will own Marcos on the mat if he doesn't knock him out 1st as I presume he will. "I'm a man! I'm 40!" And going to school his junior.

WINNER-Alexis Vila by Rd.2 TKO

Eduardo Dantas vs. Ed West Now "Dudo" is a Nova Uniao fighter worth watching. The slick submission fighter added a nice flying knee KO win to his record last out and really has serious potential. Ed doesn't seem that impressive but seems to play the role of the spoiler well, going 9-1 in his last 10 bouts. West is one of those cats who doesn't amaze you anywhere but is solid everywhere. I expect this will be a nice test for Dantas but one he passes staying free of any real trouble and taking the night on points.

WINNER-Eduardo Dantas by Decision

Christian M’Pumbu vs Travis Wiuff The newly minted Light Heavyweight Champion gets his 1st non-title fight against the guy I always confuse with Justin Eilers (R.I.P.). The awfully inked Wiuff has garnered 78 professional fights which have occurred in every imaginable promotion. No one will mistake Travvy for a title contender any time soon but he does sport some wrestling and posesses one punch KO power. M'Pumbu was my guy back in 2007 though it took him a little longer to get noticed than I expected. The undersized Champion rolled through Bellator and now meets an oversized opponent. "Tonton" (great nickname) has far better hands and submissions than Wiuff and if he avoids that fateful KO punch, should have little trouble bashing around the journey man. I'm ready for "Tonton" to get his due and it begins here.

WINNER-Christian M'Pumbu by Decision

Steve Gable vs. Ricardo Tirloni Dan is one of the most celebrated amateur wrestlers of all time...wait wait wait, wrong guy (only educated fans will get that joke). Steven is a solid if not inexperienced Lightweight meeting Tirloni who has been straight jacking since 2009. Ricardo is the man here as Gable has been off for a year and has not faced the likes of Ben Henderson or anyone close to that ilk. Tirloni has been tested a bit more and should have the edge and he continues to build steam.

WINNER-Ricardo Tirloni by Rd.3 Submission

Prelims:
Rich Hale vs. Carlos Flores Hale set the world afire early this year with his inverted triangle choke which may yet win "Submission Of The Year" honors. M'Pumbu bested him but Rich opened a lot of eyes as well. Carlos or Chubbles McFatfat has barely cut his MMA teeth but has some power behind his tits.

WINNER-Rich Hale by Decision

Efrain Escudero vs. Cesar Avila I don't know what has happend to the game of Escudero in the last few years but if he can't win here he might think about retirement.

WINNER-Efrain Escudero by Decision

Jacob Ortiz vs. Edgar Garcia Ed had a quick cup of tea with the UFC but has won 3 since that failed venture. Jacob is a Kobe fan so fuck him.

WINNER-Edgar Garcia by Decision

Erin Beach vs. Roscoe Jackson Things just got Sarah Jessica Parker ugly for this card as far as "talent" goes.

WINNER-Erin Beach?

Nick Piedmont vs. Jade Porter WINNER-Jade Porter

Steve Steinbeiss vs. Dano Moore UFC Castaway sighting! WINNER-Steve Steinbeiss

Cro Cop & Pat Barry Sing A Duet (Video)

Fedor Emelianenko vs Jeff Monson Official For November 20th In Mother Russia

Fedor Emelianenko vs Jeff Monson is now official. Both combatants have signed the contract for the bout November 20th in Moscow. M-1 announced the deal at a press conference which both men attended.

The "Last Emperor" had this to say about his recent losing streak and fighting at home again in Russia.

"I'm very happy to fight at home. Since the majority of my fights took place in Japan or United States, I'm happy to be fighting in Russia again after 4 years. I would like to thank Jeff Monson for the opportunity to fight him, I always followed his career and hope that we'll be able to show a beautiful fight for the fans. During my last three fights I always had a feeling that I can win. But somehow, in the last moment something always went wrong."

Fedor also hinted that a New Year's Eve fight may take place in Japan this year.

The Continuing Saga of Joe San: Gang Rapist & Murderer?

By Don Thompson of the Associated Press

SACRAMENTO, California (AP) — A bit actor who appeared in the first "Austin Powers" movie is suspected in the death of his cellmate at the California prison where he is serving a life sentence, corrections officials said Tuesday.
Joseph Son , 40, wore a bowler hat and played one of Dr. Evil's henchmen, named Random Task, in 1997's "Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery." He also was a mixed martial arts fighter who appeared in several other movies or videos in the 1990s, according to his Hollywood biography.
He arrived at Wasco State Prison in the state's Central Valley on Sept. 16 after he was sentenced in Orange County for the 1990 gang rape of a Southern California woman.
The dead inmate was a parole violator serving a new two-year sentence from San Luis Obispo County for failing to register as a sex offender. He was found dead Monday in the cell he shared with Son.
The death was being treated as a homicide, California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation spokeswoman Terry Thornton said.
Thornton and Wasco State Prison spokesman Henry Cervantez couldn't say how the inmate died or why the death was considered suspicious. The cellmate, age 50, wasn't immediately identified because relatives had not been notified.
The Kern County District Attorney's Office, which is assisting the investigation, didn't immediately comment. A spokesman for the sheriff-coroner's office, Ray Pruitt, said an autopsy would likely be performed Wednesday.
Both men were in the reception unit for new inmates at the 20-year-old prison, which houses about 5,800 inmates. The cellmate had arrived on June 23.
Son was convicted of one count of torture in August after his DNA linked him to the abduction of a then-19-year-old victim as she walked her dog near her apartment on Christmas Eve.
Son and a co-defendant, Santiago Lopez Gaitan, 40, drove the woman to Huntington Beach at gunpoint, where they raped and sodomized her in the back of the car. They repeatedly threatened to kill her, hitting her with the pistol and telling her she was going to die.
The badly injured woman begged for her life, prosecutors said, and the two men released her naked and blindfolded with her own pants.
Police collected DNA evidence, but couldn't match it to her attackers until Son was required to provide a DNA sample after he pleaded guilty to felony vandalism in 2008 and violated probation.
Son's co-defendant was sentenced to 17 years and four months in state prison after he pleaded guilty in January to five felonies, including kidnapping and sodomy by force in concert.

UFC 136 Results: Edgar KO's Maynard, Aldo Retains, & Lauzon Upsets!

Mike Massenzio defeats Steve Cantwell by Unanimous Decision to most likely send the former WEC Light Heavyweight Champion packing. The "Robot" is a fitting nickname for Steve who just can't seem to hit that next level when needed. Cantwell won the 1st round and then steadily went downhill as he mentally collapses against a middling fighter. The "Palooka" takes it though he is still not long for the UFC.

Aaron Simpson bests Eric Schafer by Unanimous Decision. The "Red's" striking is still not there as he was roughed up and shut out by the "A-Train." Schafer took an impressive beating but Simpson is the man who continues to improve his game now on a 3 fight winning streak.

Darren Elkins Upsets Tiequan Zhang by Unanimous Decision. C'mon folks, who called it? Zhang is a one trick pony looking for that guillotine all night and never finding it while Elkins got in his shots for a clean 30-27 sweep.

Stipe Miocic defeats Joey Beltran by Unanimous Decision. The Cro Cop fan had more stamina and game than I thought and had no visible jitters when stepping into the big time. The "Mexicutioner" brought the fight as he always does but just couldn't hang with the more athletic kid. It was a fun fight to watch as every fight with Joey is, but just not enough skills as we wait hoping Beltran isn't cut while Pat Barry, who must own nude pictures of Dana White for blackmail, remains employed despite all reason.

Anthony Pettis edges Jeremy Stephens by Split-Decision. There wasn't any "Showtime" in this grinding war as Pettis fought to not lose as opposed to going for the win as he normally does. Its a smart move for the kid who needed that 1st UFC win more than a highlight move. Bringing in wrestler Ben Askren to sharpen up his grappling probably didn't hurt either. Stephens was disgusted with the decision but 29-28 Pettis seemed to be the vast consensus.

* You know what would make an amazing fight? Nate Diaz vs Anthony Pettis. Guarenteed amazing. Jeremy still has room to grow and a throwdown with Ross Pearson or Matt Wiman (though Zuffa doesn't like to put a loser vs a winner) would make sense.

Demian Maia defeats Jorge Santiago by Unanimous Decision though not impressively. Those "improved hands" Maia showed against Mark Munoz were absent here tonight. Demian's striking looked rudimentary but he always has his amazing Jiu-Jitsu to fall back on as he controlled Santiago all night long though maybe it wasn't all that aesthetically pleasing. People are hating on Jorge for his UFC performances going 1-4 all time, but he is facing top competition.

* A step back for Santiago could do him good facing a Dan Miller to find out where exactly he belongs in the rankings. Maia could gain some valuable experience meeting a rebounding Yushin Okami in battle.

Joe Lauzon Upsets and taps out Melvin Guillard by RNC in only 0:47's. The Melvin of old returned coming in ultra-cocky and paying the embarrassing price. A couple of surprising left hands had Melvin scrambling to survive which is where he always fails. A collected "J-Lau" put in his hooks and sunk in the choke forcing Guillard to tap out voiding his Lightweight title opportunity! Hahahahaha I laughed as Guillard did it again being his own worst enemy and Lauzon made him pay! "Submission Of The Night"

* Where do we go from here? "J-Lau" has tons of opportunities now but the upper echelon of the division still may not be where he should go just yet. Guillard looks back up at the Lightweight ladder but he just never seems to learn his lesson.

Nam Phan got redemption defeating Leonard Garcia by Unanimous Decision. This was a fun little scrap that I found more entertaining than the 1st one. I'd rather not see a rubber match but I imagine we will at some point. Garcia still swings like a crazy person but both men went for broke and hit the canvas at various times but never folding. Garcia landed 9 power shots to the head out of 130 thrown which is just an awful return on his investment. Phan set the record for most significant strikes in a single fight with 174 according to Fight Metric which is pretty impressive and 72 more than in the 1st meeting. Phan and Leonard Garcia combined for 274 significant strikes, falling 4 short of the record held by Chris Lytle and Matt Serra. Leonard did win the leg strike war landing 25 while Nam had a big zero. Perhaps that is something Nam needs to add to his game. "Fight Of The Night"

Chael Sonnen taps Brian Stann with an Arm-Triangle Choke in the 2nd round. The "All-American's" takedown defense was not improved as advertised as Chael took him down and did as he pleased before the ending. Chael then got on the mic to continue his hyperbole of pro wrestling cliches which I will not even give the time to. I even noticed at the post fight presser the reporters weren't as into the shtick and pretty much laughed him off without asking him very many questions. Perhaps the rhetoric is wearing thin for others as much as it has for me.

Jose Aldo defeats Kenny Florian by Unanimous Decision in a closer than expected title fight. "Kenflo" had it going early winning the 1st and perhaps the 2nd but then "Scarface" figured him out avoiding the takedown attempts and finding accuracy with his powerful strikes. Kenny just could not get the fight to the mat for any significant amount of time and got busted up as the fight went along. Florian did edge Jose Aldo in total strikes 69-66, but Aldo had the advantage in significant strikes going 51-40. Aldo had almost all the success in leg kicks landing 27-9 and Ken only got 1 takedown in 19 attempts. Statistics aside, Kenny hung in there and did better than anyone else has against the champion to date.

* I don't know where Florian goes from here and neither does he. At the post fight presser a dejected "Kenflo" politely answered questions with short answers while putting his head down between inquiries. A tough loss but Ken has nothing to hang his head about. The guy is a warrior and when he began back in the initial TUF days who would have thought he would reach such a high level? Aldo will now most likely meet Chad Mendez in a rematch.

Frankie Edgar KO'd Gray Maynard via punches in the 4th round to close their epic trilogy.....for now. It really did look like we were watching a replay of the 2nd fight. Gray caught Frankie again with a debilitating uppercut and continued to smash away even landing a just crushing flying knee. Edgar took the beating as Gray calmed himself not wanting to make the mistake of gassing out as he did in the 2nd fight. From there, again, it seemed like the "Answer" found his rhythm as he began to target Maynard who swung for that uppercut time and time again but not finding it. It was still a close battle until the 4th round when Frankie dropped Gray with an uppercut of his own though the "Bully" quickly sprang back to his feet. Then Edgar landed two pinpoint right hooks as Maynard collapsed to the canvas as the Champion bludgeoned him as his head bounced hard off the canvas twice! Gray's eyes were gone and the referee stepped in as Edgar retained his Lightweight title in dramatic fashion! "KO Of The Night"

* Another great fight putting the feud at 1-1-1 and me thinks someday they will meet again. Poor Gray can't catch a break as now all the reporters ask him why he didn't go for broke in the 1st round when he had the Champion hurt. Honestly, Maynard was very respectful in the press conference and handled it all very well. Frankie's left eye looked awful and he is sporting a fat lip as well.

Notes:

Mike Goldberg said Gray Maynard walks around over 200 lbs. to which Joe Rogan was forced to correct him on. Yet another in a litany of ridiculous and uneducated statements by the longtime Zuffa employee who once said and I quote, "98% of the fans who listen to me on a regular basis appreciate my professionalism." BWAHAHAHAHAHA!

Why do professional writers ask silly "What if" questions to fighters? Well what if you jumped on him more? What if you rubbed jelly on your body? What if the sky had opened up and chocolate covered bicycles fell down on your head in the Octagon? Jesus guys ask something relevant.

To the "journalist" whose question to Frankie Edgar was to hold up a tape playing the Rocky theme music, it wasn't funny. Nobody laughed and you just letting it play was awkward. Judging by Dana White's face you can expect to have your credentials (rightly) revoked.

Sir Charles Barkley was in the crowd hanging with Middleweight Champion Anderson Silva. Whad up Chuck?

8-3 on the picks including one of the Upset specials.

Bellator 53 & MFC 31 Results: "Killa-B" & Lima Move On To The Finals & Jimmo Becomes Champion

Bellator 53

Luis Alberto Nogueira taps Zak Laird by Guillotine Choke a mere 0:51 into their bout.
David Rickels submits Levi Avera by Triangle Choke in the 2nd.
Raphael Davis KO'd Myron Dennis in the 2nd round.
A.J. Matthews defeats Rudy Bears by Unanimous Decision.
Giva Santana taps Darryl Cobb with an Armbar in the initial round.
Emanuel Brooks TKO'd Greg Scott via punches in the 2nd.
Thiago Santos submits Josh Burns with the RNC in the very 1st round.
Ronnie Mann taps Kenny Foster with a Triangle Choke in the 1st round too.
Douglas Lima KO'd Chris Lozano in the 2nd round to continue to impress as he rises the prospect ladder.
Ben Saunders tapped Luis Santos with a Keylock submission in the last round.

8-1 on the picks.

MFC 31
Cody Krahn submits Ryan Chiappe with a Guillotine Choke in the 1st.
Terry Martin TKO'd Allen Hope via punches and elbows in the 1st as well.
Mukai Maromo defeats Sabah Fadai by Unanimous Decision.
Adam Lynn KO'd Curtis Demarce with a brutal elbow early in their fight.
Kajan Johnson Upsets Richie Whitson by RNC after an exciting if not disappointing back and forth 1 round fight.
Ryan Jimmo defeats? Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou by Unanimous Decision to become the vaunted Light Heavyweight Champion.

5-1 on the picks.

Bellator 53: Picks & Prognostications

Bellator 53
Oct 08, 2011
Miami, Oklahoma
Buffalo Run Casino
The Bellator cards always seem to impress yet I still cannot understand the reason for going on Saturday nights against the UFC but what do I know. I've gone a paltry 2-6 on the last 2 Bellator events so I tried to do a little more research (types into the air) on this card to up my percentage as well as give some love to a very solid and underrated fight league.

Main Card (MTV2)

Welterweight Tournament Semi-Finals
Luis Santos vs. Ben Saunders Luis has won 9 fights in a row (+ 1 Draw) and has had 57 professional bouts coming in to meet the affable "Killa-B!" We here at MMAFO don't pick against "Killa-B" when its time to rock. "Sapo" is tough but when faced with the swarm of Ben's Thai clinch knees its virtual extinction.

WINNER-Ben Saunders by Rd.3 TKO

Welterweight Tournament Semi-Finals
Chris Lozano vs. Douglas Lima Though I picked him for an Upset win last out, the "Cleveland Assassin" relies on power stand up alone. Lima is the Jiu-Jitsu superior who has been working on his wrestling with ATT and gaining steam as a Welterweight prospect. Dougie is the better fighter with more tools in the belt provided he can avoid the KO power of Lozano.

WINNER-Douglas Lima by Rd.2 Submission

Kenny Foster vs. Ronnie Mann Ronnie returns from a tough loss to Pat Curran and an even tougher loss of his trainer/mentor Shawn Tompkins (R.I.P.). The "Fairy" (his nickname, I didn't make it up) is going to be out of luck against a "Kid Ninja" who out grapples him.

WINNER-Ronnie Mann Rd.2 Submission

Prelims (Spike)
Darryl Cobb vs. Giva Santana They don't call Giva the "Arm Collector" for nothing. Cobb's in serious trouble here.

WINNER-Giva Santana by Rd.1 Submission
A.J. Matthews vs. Rudy Bears "Bad News" is a Midwest fighter who seemed to be on the cusp of a big shot before falling on inconsistent times in the last 3 years. Rudy is a tough test but just that for the up and coming AJ.

WINNER-A.J. Matthews by Decision
Raphael Davis vs. Myron Dennis "Noodle" needs this fight to hit the mat but will most likely eat some punches trying to get there sealing his fate.

WINNER-Myron Dennis by Rd.3 TKO
Levi Avera vs. David Rickels So easy that even the "Caveman" will do it.

WINNER-David Rickels by Decision
Zak Laird vs. Luiz Nogueira It's getting thin now but I'll take experience here.

WINNER-Luiz Nogueira by Decision
Emanuel Brooks vs. Greg Scott I will not pick a Jayhawk period.

WINNER-Emanuel Brooks by Rd.1 KO

UFC 136 Edgar vs Maynard 3: Picks & Prognosticaions

UFC 136: Edgar vs. Maynard 3

October 8, 2011
Toyota Center
Houston, Texas

Main Bouts (PPV):
Lightweight Champion Frankie Edgar (13-1-1) vs. Gray Maynard (10-0-1) 3 [Rubber Match] The feud has gone on for 10 years seemingly but it is finally coming to an end. I hope. We all know what each man brings to the table at this point so will it be Edgar's express speed striking endless endurance and heart, or Maynard's power punching and grinding wrestling? I lean ever so slightly to Edgar who can simply out race about anyone while the "Bully" tends to slow down as the bouts drag on. It should be razor close but I doubt Gray gets his hands on Edgar much and Jersey kids will be fisting (did I say that right?) all night long. Is that "J-Woww" in the crowd?

WINNER-Frankie Edgar by Decision

Featherweight Champion Jose Aldo (19-1) vs. Kenny Florian (14-5) It's "Kenflo's" last shot as all have noted and I am personally rooting for the good guy. Jose looked human after a disastrous weight cut against Mark Hominick and still won 4 of 5 rounds. Aldo has unfathomable striking as well as some of the best striking defense in the game not to mention a wicked ground game Jose has yet to even need. "Kenflo" has game everywhere but just not at the level of the champion and I think he looks worse at Featherweight. It won't be a good night for Florian but I pray he doesn't retire instead sticking around to take intriguing future fights. Barring a vicious cut its "Scarface" all day.

WINNER-Jose Aldo by Rd.4 TKO

Chael Sonnen (25-11-1) vs. Brian Stann (11-3) I can't decide if I really believe Stann can win or if I just hate Sonnen that much. Chael has been out for 14 months since he was caught cheating against Anderson Silva and was suspended for which he has never owned up to. Unfortunately, reason wins over hyperbole which Sonnen would know nothing about. Chael has a strong chin but will most likely take the "All-American" down over and over again which has been a chink in his armor for some time. Brian should hold him off early giving him the KO opportunity but eventually during 15 minutes he hits the mat and gets roughed up before losing a spirited bout on points. Maybe we get lucky and a PTSD addled veteran goes monkey nuts and shoots Chael dead before our eyes. Oh that would be beautiful!

WINNER-Chael Sonnen by Decision

Melvin Guillard (29-8-2) vs. Joe Lauzon (20-6) "J-Lo" as Joe Rogan called him cannot be happy with the disrespect given to him by critics and the "Young Assassin," but they're probably right. "J-Lau" struggles with strikers and Melvin is the best in the division. Greg Jackson has helped Guillard grow up as a person and fighter which doesn't bode well for Lauzon. A highlight reel win for Melvin may gain him the winner of Edgar/Maynard 3 and he might even get the stare down with the Champion at the end of the night. I'm not so sure Guillard deserves it if you compare faced competition with Clay Guida, but they didn't ask me.

WINNER-Melvin Guillard by Rd.2 TKO

Leonard Garcia (15-7-1) vs. Nam Phan 2 (16-9) [Rematch] Last time the world was shocked when the blind judges "robbed" Phan and now let justice be done. Both are tough fighters but Garcia has no semblance of technique instead opting to only throw haymakers while Nam sports more technique and a better mat game. I doubt we see the rock em sock em style of the 1st bout with Nam using more grappling mixed with striking to beat Garcia who couldn't get another judges nod even if he KO'd Phan. This being on the main card while Pettis/Stephens is on the Prelims is nothing short of a crime. The world is against you Garcia, good luck.

WINNER-Nam Phan by (dare I say it?) Decision

Prelims (Spike TV):
Demian Maia (14-3) vs. Jorge Santiago (23-9) Don't let the popular rankings fool you as Santiago is about to make a freefall down the Middleweight ladder. Maia has showed a lot of improvement standing (which came out of nowhere in a decision loss to Mark Munoz last out) and his Jiu-Jitsu is always stellar. Santiago is solid but for a glass jaw and this is Maia's fight to lose. Demian may rough Jorge up on the feet but he will destroy Santiago on the floor.

WINNER-Demian Maia by Rd.2 Submission

Anthony Pettis (13-2) vs. Jeremy Stephens (20-6) 256 for Jeremy? Intense fight and no love lost between these two up and coming Lightweights. "Lil Heathen" has overachieved a bit until he tops out against the elite 155ers while "Showtime" set the world on fire before dropping a close bout to Clay Guida which to fickle MMA fans means you suck. Pettis has skills everywhere and though he lost on the floor to the "Carpenter," Tony can rock there as well. Guida can suffocate the best of them but the creative talent of Pettis will be more than Stephens can handle. Jeremy has one punch KO power but has many holes in the rest of his game save for toughness. It's a good solid test for Anthony but he passes exposing those holes even if he doesn't win by spectacular inverted swanton flip kick.

WINNER-Anthony Pettis by Decision

Prelims (Facebook):
Joey Beltran (13-5) vs. Stipe Miocic (6-0) Though he has struggled in the UFC its always exciting to see the "Mexicutioner" in a fight. The guy has serious heart and always brings or absorbs a great deal of punishment. The MexiCAN uses sheer will to overcome his lack of skills and natural abilities while the Mirko Cro Cop shorts sporting Miocic is a gifted athlete who has not been tested at this level. "Red Stipe" (I know its pronounced Steepay) has a lot of pressure/hype coming in much like a Todd Duffee and I really question whether or not he can go the full 15 with Beltran. Joey will have to survive the Golden Glove attack of Miocic while avoiding his Division I wrestling as well but I just have this feeling like Stipe isn't ready yet.

Upset Pick WINNER-Joey Beltran by Decision

Tiequan Zhang (18-1) vs. Darren Elkins (13-2) Elkins is Nicole Richie thin but don't let the lack of physique fool you. The kid is very well rounded while the "Mongolian Wolf" has looked overrated since he rode the hype train over from China. Zhang will have his hands full and has only been out of the initial round against Danny Downes who defeated him and Darren may not even need to drag him into deep water. I'm getting crazy with the Upsets but let it ride kids!

Upset Pick WINNER-Darren Elkins by Decision

Aaron Simpson (10-2) vs. Eric Schafer (13-5-2) The "Red" makes the long necessary trek to 185 where he will meet the "A-Train" who has gone 6-2 for Zuffa. I like the "Red" and his grappling but he is just too easy to hit and Aaron is a very strong dude who can comfortably wrestle as well while caving your head in.

WINNER-Aaron Simpson by Rd.3 TKO

Steve Cantwell (7-4) vs. Mike Massenzio (12-5) Who would have guessed that after 2008 when Steve defeated Brian Stann to win the WEC Light Heavyweight title, that it would be the "All-American" at the top of the heap and the "Robot" left clinging to a job? Well, I would since I predicted greatness for Mr. Stann as far back as 2007 but I digress. Can'twin follows Stann down to Middleweight after dropping 3 fights in a row while the "Palooka" hasn't amazed anyone going 2-3 in his last 5 including a brief stop at Combat Zone 37. The Mass could possibly out wrestle Steve but I'd imagine he'll eat a bunch of power strikes in route to a Decision loss providing Cantwell can work 15 minutes at the lower weight.

WINNER-Steve Cantwell by Decision

MFC 31 "Quick" Picks For Stat Padding

MFC 31 Fight Card

October 7, 2011
Mayfield Conference Centre
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

Main Card (HD Net)
Ryan Jimmo vs. Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou W-"Big Deal"
Terry Martin vs. Allen Hope W-"T-Mart"
Richie Whitson vs. Kajan Johnson W-Richie!
Adam Lynn vs. Curtis Demarce W-Lynn
Mukai Maromo vs. Sabah Fadai W-Maromo
Ryan Chiappe vs. Cody Krahn W-Wrath of Krahn

MMA Classic Photo #10 "Auditory Hammer"

I've given now retired deaf fighter Matt Hamill a lot of shit over the years, but its nice to see he has a since of humor about his deformity.

Alexander Gustafsson's Fight Record Tattoo

MMA Fighter Alexander Gustafsson has added a tattoo that represents his fighting record. The UFC Light Heavyweight is 12-1 showing a blank triangle for his one loss while the wins are filled in with black.

UFC On Versus 6 Results: Cruz Retains In A Night Of Controversy

Walel Watson TKO'd Joseph Sandoval with punches in the very 1st round. Still know nothing about these cats but the coin flip didn't pay off.

Josh Neer TKO'd Keith Wisniewski when the doctors stopped the fight after the 2nd round due to lacerations. Josh returned in bloody fashion sporting a beautiful jab that Keith refused to try and avoid. In would be in the clinch that Neer really did the damage slicing up Wisniewski's face with spectacular standing elbows for which Keith had no answer. In peculiar fashion, Neer’s mouthpiece fell out and went under the Octagon prompting him to point it out to the official lest he be forced to visit the “Dentist” (see what I did there?). According to the official rules Neer's corner should have had a backup mouthpiece but what are the chances of this happening? Finally back to action, Neer was ready to dirty box all night though after the jab Josh comes in with ugly swinging but Wisniewski never made him pay for it. Those standing inside elbows while clinched really marked and cut people up Keith who was now bleeding like a fire hydrant opened in the summer while Josh gutted through possible broken ribs. At the end of the round Neer latched on a guillotine causing the blood to pour in a grotesque steady stream. The doctors had seen enough and halted the bout before the 3rd round could begin to give Josh the impressive win which he dedicated to his grandfather who is battling cancer.

T.J. Grant sort of defeated Shane Roller by Armbar in a controversial bout. Grant looked good at the new weight and out grappled Roller the entire night and almost got the armbar submission in the 2nd had time not run out. In the final round, Grant pulled Shane into a guillotine and when Roller popped out he effortlessly transitioned into the armbar though the arm was safely the wrong direction and had his hands clasped together. Referee Fernando Yamasaki stopped the bout without a tap which made Roller rightly furious. This is the beginning of a very bad night for the Yamasaki brothers.

* TJ looked great and was going to win by decision had Shane gotten out, but you cannot take the match out of the fighters hands like that.

Mike Easton TKO'd Byron Bloodworth with knees and punches in the 2nd round. Mike made a successful return to MMA after a 2 year absence but will need a real test in the future.

Paul Sass tapped Michael Johnson with Heel Hook in the 1st round. Mike came out looking great on the feet showing his hard work in the gym which has been focused on striking. Sassoon knew he was in trouble and sucked Johnson to the ground. The TUF alum didn't realize the crafty Brit was setting up the heel hook by which he has won 4 of his last 5 fights. Mike should have scouted one of Paul's favorite moves but it was far too late as Sass wrenched the knee gaining the tapout and raising his undefeated record to 12-0. "Submission Of The Night"

Yves Edwards TKO'd Rafaello Oliveira with punches in the 2nd round. The "Tractor" came out swinging and had the "Thugjitsu Master" on his heels for much of the initial round where he also earned a cut above his eye. In the 2nd, Edwards had seen enough and began to time Oliveira with pinpoint accuracy. A couple of left hands from the southpaw put down Rafaello down momentarily but a head kick put Jersey native back down on queer street. From there Yves reigned down blows as Oliveira simply turned his head away and ate numerous punches while defenseless. For some odd reason, referee Mario Yamasaki allowed the drubbing to go on far too long prompting anyone with eyes to scream for a merciful stoppage. Finally, the bout was stopped and Edwards shook his head seemingly in disbelief at the referee's inaction that could have caused needless injury. Still a very nice win and the 41st of Edwards career!

Matt Wiman defeats Mac Danzig again this time by Unanimous Decision. In the rematch Mac came very prepared but Matt always drags guys into his brawling style. "Handsome" was looking to make Danzig ugly with an abundant use of standing elbows while the men were clinched up as they would be for the entire 15 minutes. Danzig had his moments pouring on the striking as if throwing caution to the wind at times and used top control in the 2nd though he spent most of it defending Wiman's submission attempts. By the 3rd both men were tiring but refusing to slow the accelerated pace and it was Mac's forehead that had noticeably swelled from the impressive standing elbows that just kept coming from Matt. Very nice clinch work and dirty boxing from Wiman and Mac should take a look at the Featherweight division for which he is better suited. "Fight Of The Night"

Anthony Johnson KO'd Charlie Brenneman with a head kick in the 1st round in controversial fashion. The "Spaniard" predictably went for the takedowns early only to be stuffed and worked over by "Rumble's" brutal knees to the body. Charlie didn't care for them and got to his feet but left his face completely unguarded allowing Tony to unload a powerful kick to the face that put Brenneman on his ass. Yet again, referee Mario Yamasaki would make a mistake and stopped the bout though Charlie looked up at him in disbelief with clear eyes. The Yamasaki brothers were just runing bouts right and left this evening. At any rate, it was rookie mistake for Charlie not to defend himself in the slightest and if "Rumble" had been allowed to follow up I highly doubt Brenneman was going to stop the onslaught. We'll never know.

* On a positive note, the "Spaniard’s" afro jew hair was impeccable.
** If Rumble gets this enormous weight cut down as it appears he has, he is going to look like Jon Jones or Anderson Silva at Welterweight. Just really long and athletic and larger than his opponents with Light Heavyweight power. He is also black.

Stefan Struve submitted the hapless Pat Barry by Triangle Choke in the 2nd round. Holy shit just cut Barry already who apparently has no brain when in the Octagon. The 1st round consisted of the men doing as little as possible perhaps just showing off their size disparity's. In the 2nd Pat started to find the mark and simply backed off. Struve smartly drug Barry to the ground where he has obviously never trained in his entire life. Stefan had time to check his iPhone for messages as he slowly and blatantly set up the triangle. "HD" did lift Stefan high into the air for a Jackson on Arona type slam which made the hold even tighter thus bringing the fight ending tap. Why Pat didn't just make a b line for Struve's glass jaw is beyond me but congrats to the 6'11' Heavyweight who seems to be adding some good bulk. Barry should go to K-1 as he has no business in the MMA world.

* We also had some brilliant commentary from Mike Goldberg who continues to talk out his ass without having a clue as to what is going on.

"You see the hand marks on the chest of Struve that’s from that pushing off Barry is doing.” said Mike Goldberg
"Actually that was there before the fight even started from his corner smacking him around warming him up.” replied Joe Rogan. Yup, they do they every single time he fights which would have given Goldberg 9 opportunities to notice the obvious.
Does the Zuffa shill even look up from his advertising script to see the bout directly in front of him?

Dominick Cruz defeats Demetrious Johnson by Unanimous Decision to retain the Bantamweight Championship. I'm with everyone in the MMA community and don't like Dominick's strike and run style but this bout he switched things up keeping the fight grounded much to the dismay of fans. I hate to give the asshole credit but he had to take the fight down over and over again to control the ultra fast "Mighty Mouse." It just looks bad when on the feet Cruz is running away and always moving backwards until the takedown, but such is life. Cruz basically beat Demetrious at his own game with smothering top control and a few very pretty German suplexes on the 25 lb. challenger. "Mighty Mouse" is a nice guy but really needs the 125 lb. division as he is just far too small for even Bantamweight.

* The champion broke his hand in the fight but will be waiting for the winner of former Champions Urijah Faber versus Brian Bowles coming up.

In the post fight press conference Dana White revealed that all the "offers" Kurt Angle had claimed were made to him by the UFC were lies. What a shock. Turns out he was offered the Kimbo Slice deal to come on TUF 10 and work his way into the UFC which he turned down. Next you are going to tell me Angle isn't going to make the next USA Olympic Wrestling team which he is saying will happen.

6-4 on the picks which sucks but at least I wasn't wasting a $500 investment.