Sunday, November 20, 2011

M-1, Bellator 58, & Strikeforce Challengers 20 Results: Fedor Returns!




M-1 Results
Fedor Emelianenko defeats Jeff Monson by Unanimous Decision in a 1 sided fight in Moscow. The "Last Emperor" was composed throughout keeping the "Snowman" at bay with a steady stream of jabs and combinations while easily shrugging off takedown attempts. Jeff's bottom lip was cut and bleeding profusely as he squinted through a closing eye obviously frustrated. Fedor looked calm and cerebral taking his opportunities and getting his 1st win since the unfathomable 3 fight skid over 2 years. Emelianenko gets back to work on New Year's Eve against Judoka Satoshi Ishii for DREAM.

Aleksander Emelianenko was KO'd by new comer Magomed Malikov last weekend in a shocking upset. It was Aleks only fight this year and a brutal loss.

Bellator 58 Results
Brett Cooper bested Jared Hess by Unanimous Decision as predicted.

Marlon Sandro taps Rafael Dias by Arm-Triangle Choke in the 1st round. Sandro showed who had the better blackbelt Jiu-Jitsu chops actually securing the choke standing and dragging Dias to the mat for the eventual tap.

Hector Lombard TKO's Trevor Prangley in the 2nd round. Its 25 in a row as Hector continues to crush people and will now defend his belt against tournament winner Douglas Lima next.

Michael Chandler Upsets Eddie Alvarez by 4th round RNC to become the new Bellator Lightweight Champion in a "Fight Of The Year" candidate! It was a high paced MMA title fight with both men mixing things up in a classic. Eddie seemed to land more standing with his speed until the 3rd when Chandler was very bloody and looking to survive. Then inexplicably in the 4th, Mike roared back landing a right hand that hurt Eddie and took him to the mat. Pouring on the punishment Alvarez gave up his back as the Mizzou wrestler deftly locked in the choke for the victory. An absolutely thrilling fight that will unfortunately be overshadowed by a great UFC card. Bellator was so pleased with the fight that they are giving it away for free on the Internet.

Strikeforce Challengers 20 Results
Ronda Rousey still didn't need much time to tap Julia Budd with an Armbar 0:39 into the opening round. We need a real test for "Rowdy" and judging by her post fight Twitter war with Tara LaRosa, we may have a volunteer.

Lumumba Sayers obliterated Antwain Britt with a KO 0:28 into their fight. Damn!

Derek Brunson, Trevor Smith, and Adlan Amagov also won.

What a great weekend of MMA bouts with great finishes and wars all around. Hope you enjoyed the action and we went 8-2 on the 3-card picks.

UFC 139 Results: "Hendo" & "Shogun" Have A War, Faber, Silva, & Kampmann All Win!





Danny Castillo TKO's Shamar Bailey in the very 1st round in dominant fashion. Shamar had nothing to add and Castillo was angry that his opponent unprofessionally missed weight. Once Danny took full mount it was a short matter of time. Big needed win to begin the night for Team Alpha Male.

Seth Baczynski submits Matt Brown with a Guillotine Choke 0:42 into round 2. The men cut a fist pace early clinching and working against the cage. In the 2nd, Seth took Brown down with a guillotine and refused to relent. Matt taps out and a solid win for Baczynski.

Miguel Torres defeated Nick Pace by Unanimous Decision in a shut out. Torres kept Pace at the end of his jab all night. A solid return for "Angel" but more difficult opponents on his long road back are coming.
* Set up Scott Jorgenson vs Miguel Torres next!

Gleison Tibau defeated a game Rafael dos Anjos by Split-Decision. It was close throughout but Tibau used his power striking to stifle RDS who took a lot of big shots but kept coming. Good solid action and Tibau ups his Zuffa record to 8-4 and 3 in a row.

Chris Weidman taps Tom Lawlor with an impressive Brabo Choke 2 minutes into the 1st round. The "All-American" standout pushed Tom down secured the choke and put Lawlor to sleep quickly. Very impressive for the now 7-0 Serra-Longo team member. "Submission Of The Night"

Michael McDonald destroyed Alex Soto via KO 0:56 into the fight. A straight right hand, combination, and then overhand right land as Alex hits the mat. Soto pops right back up only to come crashing down from an uppercut before being put away with prejudice! 14-1 for "Mayday" who is rolling through the Bantamweight division. "KO Of The Night"

Ryan Bader KO's the struggling Jason Brilz 1:17 into round 1. "Darth" came out aggressive but it was a seemingly innocuous right hand behind the ear that ruined Brilz who then ate the G&P before the referee stopped the fight. Tough times for Jason but Bader recovers from a 2 fight skid nicely.

Stephan Bonnar defeated Kyle Kingsbury by Unanimous Decision in a gritty close fight. The "American Psycho" used his superior grappling to frustrate and ground Kyle who couldn't muster much in return. It was a slow fight but a controlled victory for Bonnar who apologized to a ungrateful crowd and also apologized to Josh Koscheck offer their ugly T-Shirt beef.

Martin Kampmann defeats Rick Story in a razor close Split-Decision. Story came out hard landing brutal body shots and both men were bloody above the eye at the end of the round. In the 2nd, Martin used his angles to pick Story apart and looked for an arm triangle choke controlling the round. For the final stanza, Rick shoots for a double but its Kampmann who gets the takedown and later a beautiful trip. Story kept rising to his feet but was met with a German suplex as the "Hitman" is all over Rick looking for the RNC as time expires.
* Tough luck for Story but a huge victory for the oft abused by judges fighter finally came through. Both men stay in the hunt at Welterweight and a fight with Jake Ellenberger would make sense. Match Story up with anyone and he'll give you a fight.

Urijah Faber blows out Brian Bowles and submits him with a Guillotine Choke early in the 2nd round. The "California Kid" was faster on the feet and got a takedown using some G&P in a controlled opening. Then Faber staggered Bowles with a mega-right uppercut and unloaded, with knees, elbows, and a barrage that Brian sternly ate. Urijah secures his always strong guillotine and Bowles is forced to tapout.
* The "California Kid" looked amazing against the former Champion called out current belt holder Dominick Cruz for their destined rubber match. “That’s how you finish fights. Dominick, you can run, but you can’t hide, homeboy. Throw some gel in that widow’s peak. Let’s do some work. Let’s do battle.”

Wanderlei Silva TKO'd Cung Le with Knees and Punches showing the "Axe Murderer" isn't done yet. Le kept Silva backing up early with his kicks and a beautiful spinning back kick that seemed to hurt Wand. Silva begins striking back toward the end of the round and cuts Le open badly. In the 2nd, Cung came strong again but Wand landed a combination that seemed to give him confidence. Le doesn't fully commit to a side kick and the "Axe Murderer" attacks with a blitzkrieg of knees in the Thai clinch. Cung is wounded and his nose badly broken as he wilts under the pressure and Silva lands some final hammer fists. Cung's face is destroyed and an elated Wanderlei celebrates.
* Wand isn't done yet but Le may be in a painful loss.

Dan Henderson defeats Mauricio Rua by Unanimous Decision in an epic 25 minute war! Both men took a huge amount of damage in the fight and both looked almost finished at times. Rua actually landed more 96-77 on significant strikes and in total strikes 191-113. "Hendo" landed more to the body but controlled and dictated the 1st 15 minutes. The "H-Bomb" visibly hurt "Shogun" in the 3rd and he looked so exhausted that it seemed he wouldn't be able to answer the bell in the 5 round "Main Event." "Shogun" was getting brutalized in the 4th as Dan also seemed to be slowing down when Rua seemed to give it a final try pushing forward through the punches. Henderson was suddenly defenseless and Rua gets the takedown for a solid comeback round! For the final round, Rua looked for submissions and struck desperately as Dan just survived albeit barely. "Shogun" had two black eyes and a badly damaged lip and "Hendo" had to be held up by his corner men. Both men gave everything they had tonight! "Fight Of The Night"
* Its between Henderson and Rashad Evans for the next title shot against the winner of Jon Jones and Lyoto Machida.

An absolutely amazing card that exceeded all expectations! 11-1 bitches on the picks!

Saturday, November 19, 2011

M-1 Fedor vs Monson, Strikeforce Challengers 20, & Bellator 58 Picks & Prognostications



Bellator 58 (November 19)
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Hollywood, Florida

Main Card (MTV2)
Lightweight Champion Eddie Alvarez vs. Michael Chandler Chandler is a brick house Mizzou wrestler who is still developing his heavy hands. Eddie is the dominant Champion who has won 7 in a row but must display impressive takedown defense to keep things in his favor in a striking war. Avoiding the ground and matching the high pace is key to the Champion retaining in a closer than expected 25 minute fight.
WINNER-Eddie Alvarez by Decision

Middleweight Champion Hector Lombard vs. Trevor Prangley One of the meanest men in MMA who rides a 19 fight winning streak against the long traveled South African. Trevor is a tough fighter but he is going to be hurt on the feet as Lombard do what he do brutalizing the fading veteran in yet another highlight reel finish.
WINNER-Hector Lombard by Rd.1 KO

Marlon Sandro vs. Rafael Dias Sandro came to Bellator a educated favorite's unknown only to be shocked and KO'd by Pat Curran in the tournament finals. The Nova Uniao and Jose Aldo training partner is better than he has showed recently (even in Japan) and re-establishes himself with a brutal win.
WINNER-Marlon Sandro by Rd.2 KO

Brett Cooper vs. Jared Hess Jared stumbled after his "Submission Of The Year" inverted triangle while Cooper is the never stop coming forward dread headed who gives everyone fits. I like Hess to win early on the feet before eventually wearing down to the non-stop assault coming his way all night.
Upset Pick WINNER-Brett Cooper by Decision

Strikeforce Challengers 20 (November 18)
Pearl at The Palms Casino Resort
Las Vegas, Nevada

Main Card (Showtime):
Antwain Britt (11-5) vs. Lumumba Sayers (4-2) The "Juggernaut" has struggled losing two in a row against great competition against the likes Sayers has never come near viewing. Britt should power Lumumba on the feet to a impressive rebound stoppage.
WINNER-Antwain Britt by Rd.2 TKO

Julia Budd (2-1) vs. Ronda Rousey (3-0) The Challengers bout I'm most interested in as the very opinionated Judo medalist may actually see more than a few minutes in the cage. Ronda is dying to use the striking she has been working on so diligently but this isn't an opponent to take her too far. "Rowdy" excels again and needs a true test.
WINNER-Ronda Rousey by Rd.1 Submission

Anthony Smith (13-7) vs. Adlan Amagov (8-1-1) Adlan has impressed me as he grows more mature in MMA while Smith strikes me as just another journeyman fighter.
WINNER-Adlan Amagov by Rd.2 TKO

TJ Cook (15-3) vs. Trevor Smith (8-1) Trevor is a Ring Demon with great grappling while TJ is a decent striker.
WINNER-Trevor Smith by Rd.2 Submission

Derek Brunson (8-0) vs. Nate James (14-7-1) Take youth and continue the streak.
WINNER-Derek Brunson by Decision

M-1 Global Fedor vs Monson PPV (November 20th)
Olympic Stadium
Moscow, Russia

Fedor Emelianenko vs. Jeff Monson Its the last stand for the "Last Emperor." Fedor has lost an unfathomable 3 fights in a row after dominating for a decade strong. Emelianenko has been criticized for terrible management and weak training partners that refuse to evolve, but he has also been out of control instead of the patient cyborg killer that destroyed Pride FC's Heavyweight division. The well traveled "Snowman" is always game but lacks much stand up ability with his short stature though he is a multi-time ADCC champion and has 27 submission wins on his resume. Fedor should control the stand up game avoiding the slowing takedown attempts of Monson while touching up the easily cut American. If things get to the floor it will be by Fedor's decision with a brutal G&P as a hopefully more patient Legend returns to the side of victory righting the worlds wrongs.
WINNER-Fedor Emelianenko by Rd.3 TKO

Thursday, November 17, 2011

UFC 139 "Shogun" vs "Hendo" Picks & Prognostications


UFC 139: Shogun vs. Henderson
November 19, 2011
HP Pavilion
San Jose, California

This is one of the best cards the UFC will put together this year! If ever you were to put money down on a PPV, this would be the time. Lots of stars, Legends, and Upsets all over this event.

Main Bouts (PPV):
Mauricio Rua (20-5) vs. Dan Henderson (28-8) "Hendo" returns to the UFC after conquering Strikeforce's Light Heavyweight Title and is ready to take a final run at the belt against the surging "Shogun." Rua felled Chuck Liddell, Lyoto Machida twice (despite the judging), before dropping the belt disastrously against Jon Jones, only to recover blasting out Forrest Griffin last out. I have no doubt we will be swinging for the fences and ignoring "Hendo's" wrestling base entirely. If the knees are there, "Shogun" should out strike and out speed the aging legend who relies too heavily on the "H-Bomb." A more varied attack leads the percentages as Rua breaks down Danny en route to a ballistic stoppage.
WINNER-Mauricio Rua by Rd.3 TKO

Wanderlei Silva (33-11-1) vs. Cung Le (7-1) The "Axe Murderer" has gone 2-4 in his latest stead in the UFC and is returning after a 27 second KO loss to Chris Leben. Le joins the Zuffa cast as a former Strikeforce Middleweight Champion who spends most of his time these days making movies in Hollywood. Cung will have the homeland advantage but has never faced such a deadly opponent in his short career. Le is actually older at 39 but displays a vast myriad of powerful kicks that keep opponents off balance. We know Wand will attack without fear but can he keep it together enough to break down Le who always has suspect conditioning something Silva will never lack. This is made for Wand and he has to win in the clinch and never stop pushing the pace.
Upset Pick WINNER-Wanderlei Silva by Rd.2 TKO

Urijah Faber (25-5) vs. Brian Bowles (10-1) Two former WEC Champions meet for the 1st time to set up the #1 Bantamweight contender. Faber has been hitting a career ceiling as of late losing 4 title shots while Bowles lost only once dropping the belt to current Champion Dominick Cruz with a broken hand in his short career. Both men can swing and scramble guaranteeing a great match a the "Kid" out works and out wrestles Brian to get the judges approval.
WINNER-Urijah Faber by Decision

Martin Kampmann (17-5) vs. Rick Story (13-4) The "Horror" returns angrily after being dry humped to a loss stalling his title climb. Kampmann was the complete game man to beat before two tough Decision losses and a TKO loss to the expelled Paul Daley. Martin has lacked that killer instinct something Story possesses in spades. Story has solid wrestling and brutal hands while Kampmann relies on technical brilliance and an underrated ground game. The kickboxer should counter Rick's heavy hands and if grounded could easily pull the submission as long as he doesn't sustain too much damage in the process against the uber-aggressive wrestler.
Upset Pick WINNER-Martin Kampmann by Decision

Stephan Bonnar (13-7) vs. Kyle Kingsbury (11-2) The "American Psycho" has won 2 in a row after the horrible 3 fight skid while Kyle has added power while sharpening his skills with AKA while on a 4 fight win streak. Both men are going to trade on the feet with Kingsbury more likely to attempt grappling. Bonnar has great Jiu-Jitsu when he uses it but this will be a kickboxing match with Stephan bloody as always. Its a close fight but an in shape Bonnar can use his savvy experience to out game Kingbury wherever the fight leads.
Upset Pick WINNER-Stephan Bonnar by Decision

Prelims (Spike TV):
Ryan Bader (12-2) vs. Jason Brilz (18-4-1) Brilz had his moment of glory almost beating Antonio Rogerio Nogueira and getting KO'd by Vladimir Matyushenko in 20 seconds while "Darth" got choked out by Jon Jones and then embarrassed by Tito Ortiz so he desperately needs a win as well. Bader is simply better with power striking and better wrestling provided he isn't developing a chin problem. Bader all day.
WINNER-Ryan Bader by Decision

Michael McDonald (13-1) vs. Alex Soto (6-0-1) "Mayday" got a scare in his last couple bouts but make not mistake, the top prospect can establish the fight on the feet before sucking Soto to the mat for a submission. A careful Michael needs to be more aggressive but he has all the tools against a far more green opponent.
WINNER-Michael McDonald by Decision

Prelims (Facebook):
Tom Lawlor (7-3) vs. Chris Weidman (6-0) The always annoying and playing dress up Lawlor hasn't fought since October of '10 and has gone 3-2 in the UFC relying on lay and pray. Chris is undefeated in his short career though he is entering his 3rd Octagon bout. If we're gonna grapple Weidman will have the advantage leaving Lawlor with little to offer and roughing him up on the feet.
WINNER-Chris Weidman by Decision

Gleison Tibau (23-7) vs. Rafael Dos Anjos (15-5) RDS has done well recently upsetting George Sotiropoulos by shocking KO but isn't going to beat the top tier of the class. Tibau the giant sized Lightweight has been rocking and rolling save for a spirited stumble against gritty Jim Miller. Tibau's striking has improved steadily and I think RDS's run to the top is about to get over powered and beat down in a one sided affair.
WINNER-Gleison Tibau by Decision

Miguel Torres (39-4) vs. Nick Pace (6-2) "Angel" lost a razor close decision to Demetrious Johnson stopping his chance to take back his belt while Pace lost last against Ivan Menjivar going 1-2 for Zuffa over all. Pace was professional enough to miss weight and will forfeit part of his fight purse while "Angel" also struggled on the scales but did make weight eventually while Nick wasn't close. Torres is vastly more experienced being a dominant former WEC Bantamweight Champion and is going to cut Nick up on the feet before bringing the Jiu-Jitsu for a tapout victory late.
WINNER-Miguel Torres by Rd.3 Submission

Matt Brown (14-10) vs. Seth Baczynski (14-6) The "Immortal" saved his job shocking "Doomsday" by decision while Seth is alright. I think the UFC served up a win for Matt here but they may be surprised. Seth can take a beating while out working the easily gassed out Brown en route to a close decision.
Upset Pick WINNER-Seth Baczynski by Decision

Shamar Bailey (12-4) vs. Danny Castillo (11-4) Bailey does zilch for me and Castillo can muster enough offense thrills to frustrate the wrestle only fighter. Team Alpha Male baby.
WINNER-Danny Castillo by Decision

Saturday, November 12, 2011

UFC On Fox 1 Results: Dos Santos Crowned New Heavyweight Champion!




Aaron Rosa defeated a hapless Matt Lucas by Majority Decision. Not sure why it wasn't Unanimous but sad none the less.

Mike Pierce defeated Paul Bradley in their rematch by Split-Decision though it should also be Unanimous as the judges begin to flirt with disaster. The "Gentleman" hung tough but was always just a step behind Pierce who gave a solid performance.

Alex Caceres Upsets Cole Escovedo by Unanimous Decision in a shocker! The former and 1st WEC Bantamweight Champion was on his heels from the start as "Bruce Leeroy" mixed a plethora of odd angled strikes while Cole could not release his hands and even found himself almost tapped out on the floor twice, where he is supposed to be dominant. Alex did as he pleased in a dedicated and impressive performance.

Robert Peralta TKO's Mackens Semerzier by an accidental bead-butt and punches in the last round. Both men were evenly matched when Peralta dropped and attacked Semerzier who held on for dear life but survived the round unharmed. In the last round both men leaned in while swinging and clashed heads. Mackens hit the floor and Peralta finished the job this time as Semerzier was a bloody mess. Both men were at fault for the head-butt and Rob finished with a big of luck on his side. You can't feel good about this one but who would want a Rematch?

Darren Uyenoyama Upsets the shell of his former self, Norifumi Yamamoto by Unanimous Decision. Darren just put "Kid" on his ass all night and scrambling to survive. Yamamoto was grounded and worked for 15 minutes barely having time to strike on the feet. The "Kid" may not be making that trip to Japan with the UFC after all.

DaMarques Johnson KO's Clay Harvison with one punch in the 1st round. The "Darkness" put "Heavy Metal" to sleep with a staunch right hand that annihilated Clay into unconsciousness. The ref was slow to act and Johnson dropped a few more bombs for good measure. That is a wrap for the surging DaMarques. "KO Of The Night"

Ricardo Lamas rebounded to submit Cub Swanson with an Arm-Triangle Choke in the 2nd round. Cub took the fight to Lamas early and almost secured a vicious guillotine. In the 2nd, Ricardo hits the takedown and locks in the choke as Swanson seems to not take it serious until its too late. The clock is turned very tightly and Cub is forced to tap.

Dustin Poirier submits Pablo Garza via Brabo Choke in the 2nd round. Dustin looked impressive all fight heating up in the 2nd dropping elbows on Garza from side control. Poirier snuck his right arm under and grape vined Pablo's leg as he now used the left hand to beautifully lock in the choke for the impressive submission win! "Submission Of The Night"

Ben Henderson defeats Clay Guida by Unanimous Decision to become the new #1 Lightweight contender. The "Carpenter" gave it all he had but "Bendo" just controlled the fight everywhere it went. Henderson dropped Guida momentarily and then used his knees when Clay knocks Ben down and grabs a guillotine choke though he cannot secure it as the 1st round ends! It was near impossible to keep Henderson down as Clay missed on the feet and was taken down in the final round. There Henderson got the body triangle but Guida escapes to the feet finally earning a takedown and searching again for the guillotine. Ben breaks free landing punches standing to a down Guida including a blatant overhand right to the back of the head. Herb Dean stepped in to stop Henderson for the foul but the round ended. The judges rightfully see it for "Bendo" who proclaims he has a date with Frankie Edgar and praise jesus. "Fight Of The Night"

Junior dos Santos defeats Cain Velasquez by TKO in the very 1st round to become the new UFC Heavyweight Champion! The big men took a quick look and then Cain began to land leg strikes which left him open as JDS landed an overhand right that he put his entire body into behind the ear of Velasquez. The equilibrium went for Cain and dos Santos landed a few more strikes to the AKA fighter who turned away without defending forcing the referee stoppage! Wow. Didn't take JDS long but you have to think Cain suffered from ring rust though the power striking of the new Champion was on full display. Just another impressive performance for Junior Dos Santos who now polishes his new belt while awaiting the winner of Alistair Overeem and Brock Lesnar for his 1st defense.

Its nice to see that it was UFC President Dana White who embarrassed the MMA community tonight as he ranted like a fool disappointed in his own creation post fight. There were a ton of exciting finishes in a solid night of MMA as we go 7-3 on the fights but I lost my a$$ online. I also now pick Manny Pacquiao win tonight as we need to rack up some wins before the end of the year. Sorry to Ben "Killa-B" Saunders and Aleksander Emelianenko on tough nights.

Friday, November 11, 2011

UFC On Fox 1: Velasquez vs Dos Santos Picks & Prognostications



UFC on Fox 1: Velasquez vs. Dos Santos

November 12, 2011
Honda Center
Anaheim, California

Main Event (Fox):
Heavyweight Champion Cain Velasquez (9-0) vs. Junior dos Santos (13-1) The potential to be the greatest Heavyweight bout in recent MMA history is here! Two absolute studs clash after the Mexican Champion spent 13 months on the shelf with his new belt and a shoulder injury. JDS introduced his "nicest guy in the world" personality on TUF while running over the Heavyweight division going a powerful 6-0 and wrecking everyone even if they made it to the final bell. The man called Cain is the undefeated Champion who triumphantly returns from slaughtering Brock Lesnar in 1 round! Both men are reaching their primes and dos Santos striking is just perfect while Velasquez puts together the more complete game based in dominant technical wrestling. JDS can rock anyone but the Champ just has too many more tools and some of the best endurance in any weight class. Its gonna be fun and history in the making as Velasquez survives some brutal strikes before getting his game going on the ground to establish himself as the unquestioned best Heavyweight in the world!
WINNER-Cain Velasquez by Rd.3 TKO

Undercard (Facebook & FoxSports.com):
Clay Guida (29-11) vs. Benson Henderson (14-2) This bout is sponsored in part by Axe Shampoo. "Pour it on your head and chicks will instantly fuck you!" Anywho, two of the highest energy wrestlers in the biz today come to a head in what has to be blitzkrieg of a fight. Guida is a former Strikeforce Lightweight Champion who has fought 14 times in the UFC going 9-5 and riding a 4 fight winning streak. "Bendo" is a former WEC Lightweight Champion who has fought 8 times for Zuffa going 7-1 while staunchly defending his title twice. The difference is Henderson is ridiculously flexible and seemingly untappable while the submission losses have plagued his career. Ben has evolved much more in the striking though Guida possesses a toughness few can match. "Bendo" just has more varied offense while Clay has a basic formula he always follows. Henderson avoids the takedowns touching up the "Carpenter" before coming so close to a submission a few times in route to a one sided victory.
WINNER-Ben Henderson by Decision

Dustin Poirier (10-1) vs. Pablo Garza (11-1) The "Scarecrow" surprised me winning his 1st UFC bout by flying knee and his 2nd by an amazing flying triangle choke. Yet, Poirier is a better fighter. Dustin can bring power and wildness as Pablo needs more seasoning.
WINNER-Dustin Poirier by Decision

Cub Swanson (15-4) vs. Ricardo Lamas (10-2) Cub has some of the most beautiful tattoos in MMA and is returning after a long and empty 2011. Lamas will frustrate Swanson with the wrestling though he must avoid the standing game at all costs. Ricardo can box but if he relies on his wrestling he should take the judges nod.
WINNER-Ricardo Lamas by Decision

DaMarques Johnson (12-9) vs. Clay Harvison (9-3) Johnson has improved after TUF training with the likes of BJ Penn, Matt Hughes, Jeremy Horn, and Pat Miletich while "Heavy Metal" is about to washout of the UFC. DaMarques out works Clay and cuts up Harvison a bit before a submission late.
WINNER-DaMarques Johnson Rd.3 Submission

Norifumi Yamamoto (18-4) vs. Darren Uyenoyama (6-3) A bout for the "Kid" to get right. Darren trains in Japan and is tailor made to get dummied prepping Yamamoto's return to Japan in February 2012 in his old style. Norifumi has struggled in recent years going 1-3 for a former Champion and P4P A lister. He will engage the old "Kid" and destroy the victim.
WINNER-Norifumi Yamamoto by Rd.1 Flying Knee

Mackens Semerzier (6-3) vs. Robert Peralta (15-3) Ah, Peralta has some momentum behind him but neither guy really impresses.
WINNER-Robert Peralta by Decision

Alex Caceres (5-4) vs. Cole Escovedo (17-8) The "Apache Kid" is the higher level guy who cannot break through the MMA ceiling. Zuffa really wants "Bruce Leeroy" to win and are hoping he can get it done here though he has looked awful losing his 1st two efforts. Not much chance of that. Cole may be waining in his career but Caceres has absolutely nothing to offer and will most likely tap into obscurity.
WINNER-Cole Escovedo by Rd.2 Submission

Mike Pierce (12-4) vs. Paul Bradley (18-3) Pierce has this all day long. The "Gentleman" is a beast but he lacks the skill and high level of competition that Mike has. Its a gritty down and dirty affair with Paul humbled on the mat while eating punches for the duration.
WINNER-Mike Pierce by Decision

Aaron Rosa (16-4) vs. Matt Lucas (14-2) Lucas is the wild card here. Very little known as the guy comes from the minor minor circuit. Matt may not be ready or have the technique that Rosa has, but I see the stall and brawl winning the day.
WINNER-Aaron Rosa by Decision

Sunday, November 06, 2011

UFC 138 Results In 5 Finishes In A Row!




Chris Cariaso defeats Vaughan Lee by Split-Decision. Yup, that happened.

Che Mills TKO'd Chris Cope with Knees and Punches a mere 0:40 into the 1st round. Che and I don't believe you belong in the UFC Mr. Cope. The "Whooing Jackass" got just blown away by Che who delivered two crushing knees and strikes for fun. "KO Of The Night"

Michihiro Omigawa finally won beating Jason Young by Unanimous Decision. He didn't look great but Omigawa got the j0b done to remain a part of the roster while Jason will be bowing out.

Philip De Fries defeated Rob Broughton by Unanimous Decision. Nobody cares and rightly so.

John Maguire defeats Justin Edwards by Unanimous Decision. Maguire started a bit slow but came on for a solid victory.

Terry Etim over ran Edward Faaloloto ending with a wicked Guillotine Choke 17 seconds into the fight! After 19 months off due to injury the excited Etim blitzed Faaloloto with strikes and simply jumped into a standing guillotine choke that he brought to the ground. The choke was perfect and Ed tapped out quickly as "Ten Inch" Terry is back! Let's get Etim another fight quickly people.

Anthony Perosh Upsets Cyrille Diabate by RNC in the 2nd round. The "Snake" seemed to be able to use his kickboxing effectively while avoiding the takedown attempts but just never really got after it. The "Hippo" finally found his ground game in the 2nd as Cyrille just looked to be lazily defending. Perosh made him pay with some stern punches as Diabate just gave him the choke and tapped out.
* Somehow Tony stays employed and Diabate should be ashamed if not just cut for his half hearted performance.

Thiago Alves welcomed Papy Abedi to the UFC with a 3 punch knockdown and RNC victory. Big Papy showed no fear asking to face the veteran "Pitbull" who attacked aggressively early. Papy absorbed early but then held his own as the two went toe to toe. Alves then landed a right hand behind the ear and followed it up with a perfect left right that dropped Abedi dazed to the mat. Thiago then dropped heavy elbows that cut Papy open badly forcing him to turn away allowing the RNC submission of domination! Great fight. "Fight Of The Night"

Renan Pegado Upsets Brad Pickett by RNC submission in the 1st round to quiet the British crowd. The Bantamweights came out swinging for war and Renan began to get the better of the lightning fast striking. Then Pegado unleashed a stunning flying knee that landed flush. Pickett crashed to the canvas before quickly succumbing to the instantly grip applied RNC. Brad tapped out and covered his face dejected while Renan celebrated in front of a shocked crowd. Pegado looked very impressive and now I'm a believer. "Submission Of The Night"
* I would love to see Pegado fight Scott Jorgenson next! That, would be a great fight and a true top contenders bout. Its a bad loss but Brad can recover. Back to the grind for "One Punch" but he has only lost 2 of his last 10.

Mark Munoz defeats Chris Leben by TKO via Corner Stoppage. The "Crippler" simply got out wrestled as Munoz grounded out Chris while delivering some stiff elbows that bloodied veteran. Mark landed more early in the exchanges but the takedowns and subsequent beating did Chris in. It seemed very quickly that Leben was gassing out and there was no way this bout could possibly go 25 minutes. The doctors looked at the cut and allowed Leben to continue and he finished the round beaten. Chris then informed his corner and then the doctors he couldn't see and was done.
* Another solid win for Munoz but the dead silence from the crowd when he proclaimed he deserved a title shot should have given him his answer. I seriously doubt the Filipino gets the nod after two solid opponent wins. Not yet. Speaking of undeserving Middleweights, why not just set up Mark for the winner of Michael Bisping vs Jason Miller and then we'll talk. Leben is what he is. A sturdy veteran who takes a beating and can KO middle of the pack fodder. His popularity was loud tonight and he'll be back.

7-3 on the picks.

Friday, November 04, 2011

UFC 137 Timely Results: "Fight Of The Year" Penn vs Diaz!



Oh by the way UFC 137, the plagued card that was destined to do nothing when Georges St. Pierre, gave us amazing moments and two legendary retirements!

Nick Diaz did what he do and waded in for punishment early before blowing out BJ Penn who's face was wrecked for the Unanimous Decision pick for 209's own. This is the "Fight Of The Year" so far!!! Diaz is for real UFC and GSP is next as Carlos Condit is forced aside, and Nick becomes the #1 contender again! BJ is so dejected he announces his retirement for the 7th time in his career. He then tweets he'll be back when he reaches the locker room. GSP is angry. Nick is angry.

Cheick Kongo defeated Matt Mitrione in a staring contest.

A slimmer Roy Nelson defeated Mirko Cro Cop who announced the retirement we all knew was coming. Filipovic apologized to the fans for his losses but the cheers drowned him out. The legend bows out after giving the best he could and will be missed. More on that later.

Jeff Curran was tougher than expected but Scott Jorgenson is still better.

Hatsu Hioki got a gift from the judges over George Roop who is becoming the new Kenny Florian with his continual improvements.

Donald Cerrone blew Dennis Siver's doors off with a head kick and quick tapout victory. The "Cowboy" will now face Nate Diaz in a possible "Fight Of The Year" candidate. "Submission Of The Night"

Tyson Griffin missed weight, got KO'd, and its Bart Palaszewski who will stay employed and a threat at 145. Griffin is a mess.

Danny Downes got destroyed and other people fought. The End. 7-4 on the picks.

UFC 138 Leben vs Munoz Picks & Nose Pickery


UFC 138: Leben vs. Munoz
November 5, 2011
LG Arena at the National Exhibition Centre
Birmingham, England

Main Bouts (Spike):
Chris Leben (26-7) vs. Mark Munoz (11-2) This is the 1st UFC Main Event that will be 5 rounds without a title on the line. The "Crippler" was really rolling along until Brian Stann broke him down standing like the "All-American" became Anderson Silva. Mark is talented but makes stupid mistakes often as he grows against solid competition. Leben has excelled beyond where I thought he would go but reality is about to set in. Against a fellow power striker Chris lacks the natural athletic ability to hang with Munoz especially in a long fight. If, and its always a distinct possibility so if, Leben doesn't KO Mark early, he will slow and tire as Mark's wrestling weakens him while punishing him along the way with strikes. I expect this to be a slug fest early and sad late as the men breathe heavy and the victor pulls away.
WINNER-Mark Munoz by Rd.4 TKO

Brad Pickett (20-5) vs. Renan BarĂ£o (26-1) Love "One Punch" the pikey fighter from England. Besides a game and damn close loss to Scott Jorgenson, Brad has straight rolled game 10-1 including a win over former #1 contender Demetrious Johnson. Barao lost his 1st fight so that is an impressive 26 in a row! Amazing but he has not faced the talent level that Brad has in the WEC. At blazing speed Renan is going to make a mistake against the constantly attacking Pickett who can out scramble anyone putting them in awful situations for punishment.
WINNER-Brad Pickett by Decision

Thiago Alves (18-8) vs. Papy Abedi (8-0) Alves is a a point in his career where he has peaked but can still topple the elite up and coming fighters. Papy is one such kid who looks like a mini-Melvin Manhoef who has never seen the 2nd round or tasted defeat in his career. I don't know how much true fire Alves has left but Abedi will test it in a kickboxing war. The "Pitbull" edges on leg kicks and experience which will be crucial in this close fight.
WINNER-Thiago Alves by Decision

Terry Etim (14-3) vs. Edward Faaloloto (2-2) "Ten Inch" Terry is back from injuries while Ed clings to a job he got by being friends with Chris Leben. Etim is going to destroy Faalolotolotolooltolo before the final money shot.
WINNER-Terry Etim by Rd.2 Submission

Cyrille Diabate (18-7-3) vs. Anthony Perosh (11-6) I've been a bit surprised by the "Snake" as he held well against Luiz Cane and got taken out by Alexander Gustafsson who is running up the Light Heavyweight Division while the "Hippo" got a shot for letting Mirko Cro Cop batter him and then battered gift can. Cyrille should use his range taking Perosh apart and if taken down he'll work a decent game or get back up to continuing the kickboxing assault. G'Day Tony.
WINNER-Cyrille Dibate by Rd.3 TKO

Prelims (Facebook):
John Maguire (16-3) vs. Justin Edwards (7-1) John rides a 5 fight winning streak as he makes the move to the big time while Justin was gone 1-1 under Zuffa and trains with Jorge Gurgel in Ohio. I'll roll with Maguire in a coin flip match that doesn't really matter.
WINNER-John Maguire by Decision

Michihiro Omigawa (12-10) vs. Jason Young (8-4) Ohmygodwa came over to rep Japan and has fallen flat going 0-2 in lackluster performances, but they gave him someone to beat. I've always found this car overrated as hell but if he can't out game Young its time to do celebrity game shows.
WINNER-Michihiro Omigawa by Decision

Rob Broughton (15-6-1) vs. Phil De Fries (7-0) Even with this card taking place in England, I still can't believe we're seeing the "Bear" again. Philly Fries also gets the nod for being a native and is undefeated in his short career.
WINNER-Rob by Fatness

Chris Cope (5-1) vs. Che Mills (13-4) "C-Murder" improved vastly last out but he was beating Chuck O'Neil. Che is England's own and more experienced fighter who is looking to make a successful UFC debut. It could be close but Mills should have enough to stump the TUF washout.
WINNER-Che Mills by Decision

Chris Cariaso (11-3) vs. Vaughn Lee (11-6-1) Lee comes in with a bit o'hype but he's the local Brit and Chris handled himself very well against the touted prospect Michael McDonald which opened many eyes. Lee isn't ready for this technically and will most likely be up against a more diverse fighter.
WINNER-Chris Cariaso by Decision