Arianny Celeste (adorable) Mug Shot

No, we at MMAFO are not piling on poor Arianny Celeste, famed UFC ring card girl, who was recently arrested for "supposed" domestic abuse early Saturday morning.  People simply want to see her mug shot from the alleged incident and thus here we are.  


I find the picture sad and personally it makes me want to give the poor girl a hug.  Seeing her that sad is awful.  I would also like to point out how this picture hit the Internet almost immediately yet we still have not seen the Jon Jones mug shot from a more grievous alleged crime.  


We support Arianny and if she wanted to put me in a triangle, throw things at me, or kick me in the face, I would gladly accept being Celested by her.  The real criminal here is the person who made this sweet dove cry.  


Arianny was a trooper and made it out of lockup and to UFC 146 to fulfill her duties and for that, we salute her.  MMAFO wishes her all the best and she can hit us up for that hug anytime.

UFC 146 Results: JDS Retains Belt In A Night Of Finishes!

Main Card (Pay-per-view)

Junior Dos Santos TKO'd Frank Mir  in the 2nd round as predicted, to retain his Heavyweight Championship.  That went exactly as everyone thought.  Mir went for a takedown and didn't get it, then JDS spent the opening round timing his challenger.  In the 2nd, he found the timing, unloaded some punches, and Frank went down.  That's a wrap.
* Frank Mir looked out of shape.  I don't think he put a whole lot into this fight knowing the eventual outcome and was just looking for a last hurrah.  1 takedown attempt is just not good enough and Mir is going to hit cruise control on the rest of his career before the end.
** "Cigano" looked good but this wasn't the greatest test for the striker.  That comes in his next bout.

Cain Velasquez TKO'd Antonio Silva in a 1st round bloodbath.  "Bigfoot" threw a kick, the man called Cain grabbed it, and hit the knee tap taking them both down.  From there it was nothing but punishment as Velasquez dropped elbows and punches which opened up Silva spilling blood everywhere.  "Pezao" couldn't get out from under the wrestlers onslaught and the referee stepped as both men were covered in blood and there was nothing left to prove.
* Cain and JDS now gear up for the Rematch we all want to see.  This time a healthy Velasquez will fight the Brazilian in the only Heavyweight title bout worth seeing.
** "Bigfoot" will get another shot in the UFC but I don't see him doing all that well.  Cheick Kongo would be an interesting test for Easter Island head next out.

Roy Nelson KO'd Dave Herman only 0:51 in round uno.  "Peewee" stand. "Peewee" get hit.  "Peewee" fall down.  "Big Country" threw his normal overhand right that landed on Herman's temple causing him to crumble in a heap to the mat.  One extra punch from Roy was it but had referee Steve Mazzagatti not been so out of position that he had to come running from the stands, he might have had time to look at Dave's face to see if the stoppage was really in order.  The end result was going to be the same one way or the other.
* Big boy Roy is still hanging near the top of the division and a striker's delight with a returning Mark Hunt would be ideal.
** Dave just isn't that good and I don't care what the UFC does with him.

Stipe Miocic TKO'd Shane Del Rosario with vicious Elbows in round 2.  Shane looked good early landing brutal liver kicks , head kicks, and body kicks.  Then Del Rosario began to land the punches and had Miocic hurt though he would survive the round.  "Steepay" had enough standing and grabbed a leg to take things down.  The G&P hammer fists were on bloodying Shane's nose and hard elbows busted open the forehead of Rosario.  Yves Lavigne rightly stepped in halting the contest as a weary Shane staggered to his feet.  Great fight and a great comeback for the Croation.  I can't wait to see both of these big men fight again!  "Fight Of The Night"

Stefan Struve tapped Lavar Johnson via Armbar 1:05 into the 1st round.  "Big J" came out swinging but a savvy "Skyscraper" jumped and pulled guard, twisting his hips on the way down for a beautiful Armbar submission.  Johnson is never going to fix this hole in his game but he's fun to watch punch none the less.  Struve is 24 years old with 33 professional fights to his credit already.  The guy keeps improving and if he can learn to protect his face, he could make some noise in the future.  A potential match with fellow grappler Fabricio Werdum sounds perfect to me. 

Prelims (FX)
Darren Elkins defeated Diego Brandao by Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28).  Brandao started fast as always but shot his wad as Elkins stayed calm allowing for the 2nd and 3rd round comeback for the win.  Its a learning experience for Diego and Elkins has quietly gone 4-1 in the Featherweight division.  

Jamie Varner Upset upstart Edson Barboza by TKO (Punches) in the 1st round.  Oh, the hype is over.  The former WEC Lightweight Champion with a serious height disadvantage took the brawl to Barboza who did not like it.  We just had not seen Ed bullied like that before and he did not respond well to the adversity.  Welcome to the UFC Varner in the "Upset Of The Night!"

C.B. Dollaway defeated Jason Miller via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 30-26, 29-28).  It looked like "Mayhem" blew his heavily damaged knee in the 1st round but mainly it was the L&P of CB that held him down for 15 minutes causing his 2nd UFC loss in a row.  With that and a rumored back stage incident/ temper tantrum, Miller has been cut from the Zuffa roster and has reportedly retired.  For now.  Don't bank on it lasting and at least we lose one POS in this lose, lose matchup.

Dan Hardy KO'd Duane Ludwig in the very 1st round of their bout.  The "Outlaw" stayed calm as the boys exchanged early gunfire but when Dan landed and "Bang" went down, he stopped for a second to celebrate!  Hardy then caught himself and dropped down for some vicious elbows that left a giant gash on Ludwig's forehead sealing the deal.  The "Outlaw's" 1st win in two years and he made it a good one.  A feeling of relief swept through England tonight!  "KO Of The Night"

Prelims (Facebook)
Paul Sass submits Jacob Volkmann via Armbar in the 1st round as MMA fans around the world and Zuffa management go wild!  The "Sassangle" was in effect yet again as the cocky republican got caught playing the in dangerous Brit's guard.  It didn't take long for Sass to pull guard and Jacob thought he could hang in the pocket.  Volkmann could not as Sass locked up his patented "Sassangle" and sealed it with an armbar.  Oh thank you jesus "X-Mas" finally lost though its too bad Zuffa probably won't fire the dick.  "Submission Of The Night"

Glover Teixeira makes a successful UFC debut tapping Kyle Kingsbury via Arm-Triangle Choke in the initial round.  Kingsbury spent all that time prepping his stupid weigh-in costume instead of working his submission defense.  Glover capitalized on the arrogance and gets a solid UFC debut win!

Mike Thomas Brown defeats Daniel Pineda by Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28) and retired his MMA career on a win!  "MTB" gave it all he had one last time getting the judges decision and then announcing his retirement.  Good for him but a good losing effort for Pineda who lives to fight another day.


It was a wild and wooly night as we go 5 and fucking 7 on the picks.  Holy shit that is terrible.

Bellator 70, Titan FC 22, & TUF "Live" Semi-Finals Results:

Bellator 70 Results

Cole Konrad retained his Heavyweight title tapping hapless Eric Prindle by 1st round Keylock.  A single takedown and then the submission sealed this bout very quickly.  I really hope we don't have to see Eric Prindle again and Bellator is in desperate need of Heavyweight challengers.

Rick Hawn defeated a game Brent Weedman by Unanimous Decision to win the Lightweight tournament and schedule a future meeting with champion Michael Chandler.  Both men started cautious with Weedman gaining the upper hand early on his kicking game and more aggressive attack.  Rick's jab and right hand began landing again and again as time went on and even got a few throws on Brent though he landed on his feet like a cat after the 1st judo toss.  In the end, a takedown and pressure won the day for Hawn who now has the tall task of facing Bellator's undefeated champion.

Luis Nogueira TKO's Hiroshi Nakamura in the 3rd round in one of the better bouts on the evening.  

Rich Clementi tapped Derek Campos by a standard Guillotine Choke in the very 1st round.  Yup.  That happened.

Titan FC 22 Results

Anthony Johnson defeated the scurrying David Branch by Unanimous Decision in a less than impressive bout.  Branch got on his bike early and circled away for most of the bout frustrating "Rumble" who could only land leg kicks with his long legs.  Tony got a hold of David against the cage where both men stalled out numerous times to the dismay of the crowd.  Johnson would land some shots as Branch ran and two takedowns sealed the deal as "Rumble" won to a shower of boo's.  After the bout, Johnson still wouldn't accept blame for missing weight for a 4th time but now may be finally heading up to 205.

LC Davis TKO's Bill Kamery in the 2nd round to get back on the winning track and looked pretty good at 135.  Much faster and with better wrestling credentials, Davis gained the upper hand before putting the sturdy fighter away.  It was nice to hear Bill enter to some Dropkick Murphy's which gives him a little credit.

Andre Whitney, Fabio Mello, and Mirsad Bektic also earned one sided stoppage victories but it was Rudy Bears who put on a show.  The Missouri crowd chanted, "Rudy, Rudy" spurning on the relentless attack of Bears.  Strikes dropped his opponent and Rudy then unloaded with a blitzkrieg assault of strikes even looking at the referee for a stoppage while punishing his victim.  Finally the fallen had enough and Bears won taking the heart of his opponent!

TUF "Live" Semi-Finals Results

Al Iaquinta and Mike Chiesa won their respective bouts and will meet in the finals for the TUF crown nobody cares about June 1st.  The bouts were eh.  Still, Urijah Faber got both of his men into the finals gaining him another victory over wounded champion Dominick Cruz.

11-1 on the picks and like I said before, a nice way to pad the stats.

Bellator 70, Titan FC 22, & TUF "Live" Semi-Finals Picks & Prognostications

We are Russian (sic) to get the picks in for Bellator & TUF Live that have shown Friday is a terrible night for MMA.  Everyone is busy on a Friday but there are some easy picks in these events to raise the win percentages.  Also, some interesting bouts.

Bellator 60 Season 6 Finale


Heavyweight Champion Cole Konrad vs Eric Prindle Nobody takes the "Giant Ginger" and there really isn't any reason to.  The guy ekes into the finals when his opponent didn't make weight the 2nd time after cancelling their initial meeting due to illness.  Bellator gave him the pass but it didn't smell right.  Konrad is a wrestling machine but Eric is big, slow, and not very talented.  This is a long tedious bout until Pindle wears out and submits to the blubbery mass above him.
WINNER-Cole Konrad by Rd.3 Submission


Rick Hawn vs Brent Weedman  I expect this to be a closer fight than most but the Judo master wins in the end.
WINNER-Rick Hawn by Decision


Luis Nogueira vs Hiroshi Nakamura  You gotta like the smallest Nog from Brazil against the breakable Japanese prospect.
WINNER-Luis Nogueira by Rd.2 TKO


Rich Clementi vs Derek Campos  Originally slated to face TBA who probably had a better shot than the late replacement.
WINNER-Rich Clementi by Decision

Titan FC 22 (HDNet)
Anthony Johnson vs David Branch  Jeezus "Rumble" missed weight AGAIN!  WTF is wrong with this moron?  Just move to Light Heavyweight already you idiot or maybe become a professional.  Despite his track record for epic failure, TFC made this a catchweight bout catering to their only "star" on the card.  Branch is a solid enough fighter but a hydrated Johnson should beat him like its his girlfriend (which he was arrested for back in '09).  Tony is one piece of shit but he keeps getting paid so he should use that money to seek out Mike Dolce to fix fatty's problem.
WINNER-Anthony Johnson by Rd.3 TKO


L.C. Davis vs Bill Kamery a 3 fight skid for the former WEC veteran meeting the 1 fight winning streak of the Iowa submission specialist.  Despite recent events you gotta think Davis is better than this.  He has competed at a much higher level and if he has anything left he should find a win to earn the judges approval.
WINNER-LC Davis by Decision


Jose Vega vs Andrew Whitney Vega the former Bellator cast off meets the up and coming "Beast" repping Springfield Fight Club that spawned Michael Johnson.  Holla atcha rookie.
WINNER-Andrew Whitney by Rd.2 Submission


Fabio Mello vs Nick Mamalis 6 wins in a row for Fabio who is the Odie to "Garfield."
WINNER-Fabio Mello by Decision


Rudy Bears vs Nick Nolte Rudy was a decent fighter until he hit Bellator which ruined his career.  "Not That" Nick Nolte has shown some power but Rudy isn't as bad as his record indicates and he's just due for a win.
WINNER-Rudy Bears by Decision


Willie Mack vs Mirsad Bektic Will is 0-2.  Bektic is 3-0 out of ATT.  Hmmm.
WINNER-Mirsad Bektic by Rd.1 TKO

TUF "Live" Semi-Finals (FX)
Anyone else not see this season for the 1st time ever?  I love Urijah Faber and yet could not watch TUF this year since it was placed so inconveniently.  That doesn't mean we can't make some uneducated picks but since Dana White is already talking about "fixing" the next season of TUF I'll make a suggestion.  Any other night besides Friday would help.  


James Vick vs Mike Chiesa W-Chiesa


Vinc Pichel vs Al Iaquinta W-Iaquinta

UFC 146 Dos Santos vs Mir: Picks & Prognostications

UFC 146: dos Santos vs. Mir
May 26, 2012
MGM Grand Garden Arena
Las Vegas, Nevada

The all Heavyweight main card UFC event is here highlighting the big boys but the undercard is also filled with good fights of various weight classes making this one of the best shows of the year from top to bottom.  "Cigano" looks to avenge master Nogueira and defend his crown while Mir looks for his 3rd run at the title and immortality.  "Mayhem" tries not to embarrass himself again while we welcome Jaime Varner, Shane Del Rosario, and "Bigfoot" to the UFC.  The man called Cain, MTB, and the "Outlaw" fight for redemption and we all root against CB and "X-Mas" together.


Main Card (PPV):
Heavyweight Champion Junior dos Santos (14-1) vs. Frank Mir (16-5) "Cigano" has gone 8-0 for Zuffa taking the strap in just over a minute KOing Cain which he has done 10 times in his young career.  Master Mir has won 4 of 5 since the Brock Lesnar rematch getting a chance to be the Champ for the 3rd time when Alistair Overeem pissed hot as expected.  It is well known Mir prefers the ground game snapping the arms of Tim Sylvia and Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira in his 9 career submissions but his durability has been questioned in the face of adversity being stopped by strikes 5 times in his career but never losing a decision which many don't note.  And yet, when the uber-fast power striking is brought down from the avenging Santos, Frankie is going to be in a world of hurt.  I highly doubt Mir gets this to the ground once and even then the tapout is not guaranteed as many expect.  Junior is well versed in the ground game especially after his mentor was felled so recently and so painfully.  "Cigano" takes his time early establishing distance and not fearing Mir's hands.  Once settled in, Santos brings the rain and Frank crashes down to Earth like the Soviet space station.  
WINNER-Junior Dos Santos by Rd.2 TKO


Cain Velasquez (9-1) vs. Antonio Silva (16-3)  We'll catch a glimpse of "Bigfoot" in the UFC, but don't blink.  Cain is a man on a mission looking to erase his title defeat and the giant has a glass chin sculpted from Easter Island making it an easy target for the heavy handed Mexican.  If the ATT fighter can get you down he'll club you to death caveman style but Cain's stellar wrestling, KO power, and AKA education will do him just fine.  Velasquez can even ground Antonio and the beating will be severe.  Wherever the fight takes place Cain is going to destroy.
WINNER-Cain Velasquez by Rd.1 KO


Roy Nelson (16-7) vs. Dave Herman (21-3)  "Big Country" meets furry Herman in an early stand up battle before Roy has had enough fun and submits Davy.  "Peewee" is known for shitting the bed during fights he is supposed to win and he isn't even supposed to win this.  Nelson could embarrass the youngster on the mat if he feels like it, but more likely he'll play on the feet for a while before getting that tapout bonus money.  
WINNER-Roy Nelson by Rd.3 Submission


Shane Del Rosario (11-0) vs. Stipe Miocic (8-0)  The battle of the undefeated prospects showcases two thunder strikers.  Shane was a bona fide blue chipper until a tragic car accident took him out of the scene for over a year.  Stipe (pronounced steepay) is already 2-0 for Zuffa behind his solid wrestling and KO power.  Del Rosario is more well rounded and faster though he would lose the power battle.  Shane takes this downward and shows who the true MMA artist in going the distance for the 1st time in his career.
Upset Pick WINNER-Shane Del Rosario by Decision


Stefan Struve (23-5) vs. Lavar Johnson (17-5) "Big" J gets another lucky break getting matched up against the "Skyscraper" whose jaw is is oh so questionable.  I like Stefan a lot and he definitely has a superior all around game but he is easy to hit and when Lavar hits you, bad things happen in an instant.    Freaking 6 (T)KO losses scream very loudly to me as the Hollander never gets the option to use any of his slick submissions before a giant punch turns the lights out for a spectacular collapse.  Lavar be rolling!
Upset Pick WINNER-Lavar Johnson by Rd.1 KO

Prelims (FX):
Diego Brandao (14-7) vs. Darren Elkins (13-2) "Ceara" reps Jackson/Winkeljohn winning 4 fights in a row at Featherweight all by stoppage.  Elkins is a solid enough chap able to withstand some punishment but not the Marlon Brandao sized storm coming his way.
WINNER-Diego Brandao by Decision


Edson Barboza (10-0) vs. Jamie Varner (19-6)  Super hyped Barboza returns to dazzle us yet again while Varner makes his 1st forray into the UFC after fake retiring only to return going 3-1.  Both men are solid but Ed needs to be careful with the leg kicks lest he be take down by the wrestling Varner.  Barboza's day is now as the former WEC Lightweight Champion meets the new age 155er.
WINNER-Edson Barboza by Decision


Jason Miller (23-8) vs. C.B. Dollaway (11-4)  "Mayhem" just humiliated himself against the "Count" in a spectacular failure while CB continues to be CB the guys who sometimes wins sometimes loses but always annoys.  Dollaway is average at best and not that Miller is going to contend for a title anytime soon, he is more durable, vastly more experienced, and desperate to erase the mortifying loss in the UFC fans short memory.  The monkeys will cheer as Miller gets it done capitalizing on the almost guaranteed Dollaway brain fart en route to a points victory.
WINNER-Jason Miller by Decision


Dan Hardy (23-10) vs. Duane Ludwig (21-12)  The "Outlaw's" back is so publicly against the wall losing an unprecedented 4 fights in a row only to be saved by merciful friend and co-UFC owner Lorenzo Fertitta while "Bang" is just trying to stay relevant as his career winds down at a old too soon 33.  This is a striker's delight but the English rebel has been training stateside trying to shore up the holes in his game.  When its win or die time Dan finds a way winning a back and forth "Fight Of The Night" caliber slugfest.  
WINNER-Dan Hardy by Decision

Prelims (Facebook):
Jacob Volkmann (14-2) vs. Paul Sass (12-0)  Sassle brings his trademark "Sassangle" sass to bear on the crippling and terribly boring L&P of right wing idiot, "X-Mas."  Paul can catch anyone anywhere and anytime with his smooth submission game, but unfortunately if he can't illicit the tap, he's in for 15 minutes of bump n' grind boredom.  I hate Christmas almost as much as I hate "X-Mas" the republican douche bag, but he wins again.
WINNER-Jacob Volkmann by Decision


Kyle Kingsbury (11-3) vs. Glover Teixeira (17-2)  Glover, Glover, come on over.  We've been waiting, anticipating for Teixeira to make it stateside for years and he is finally here.  Now is the time he proves himself against a tough but beatable King who is more concerned about unfunny weigh-in outfits than improving his game.  
WINNER-Glover Teixeira by Decision

Mike Thomas Brown (25-8) vs. Daniel Pineda (17-7) Since dropping the WEC Featherweight title, MTB has gone 3-3 battling personal demons and failure.  The "Pit" has won 7 bouts in a string finishing every goddamn one of them in varied style.  Call me loony tunes, but I like the winning mentality and mixed attack over the schizo troubles Brown has been bringing to the table.  
Upset Pick WINNER-Daniel Pineda by Decision

Rashad Evans Reacts To Jon Jones Arrest For DUI

Jon Jones Arrested For Suspicion Of DUI

UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones was arrested early Saturday morning on suspicion of DUI. The accident occurred in Broom County in New York and Police Sgt. Chris Lason told Yahoo! Sports that Jones was arrested at 5:02 a.m. Saturday. Jones, 24, ran his 2012 Bentley Continental GT into a telephone pole at the intersection of Helen St. and Grand Blvd. Jones was charged with DUI, paid an appearance bond and was released to family.  Turns out his Mommy picked him up.


Jones has called himself a role model, christian, and even told a group of reporters that if they cast him in a good light, they'd never have trouble with him. Many MMA fans have labeled him an arrogant fraud and insincere at best not believing in his squeaky clean image.


MMA reporter Ariel Helwani has reported that Jon walked away from the crash unharmed.


I am not ashamed to say, I told you so.  I am really enjoying this and cannot wait for the mugshot and media spin from Zuffa.  How much do you wanna bet no punishment is handed down from the UFC to their newest PPV star?


Somewhere Rashad Evans is giggling thinking about this quote from Jones to USA Today last month.

"I'm very comfortable with the UFC putting me out there and trying to use me as one of the guys to promote the sport and bring it to a new level. I think if I was a knucklehead and if I was a guy you had to worry about getting a DWI or going out and doing something really stupid, they simply wouldn't promote me. I think they see the guy that I am, and they trust that. Even though I'm a 24yr old, I'm a trustworthy 24yr old".


Its all part of god's plan I guess.-MMAFO

Strikeforce Heavyweight Grand Prix Results: Daniel Cormier Crowned & Gilbert Melendez Retains

Daniel Cormier defeats Josh Barnett by dominant Unanimous Decision (49-46, 50-45, 50-45) to become the Strikeforce Heavyweight Grand Prix Champion!  Yes the "tournament" was a bit of a joke but what was impressive was "DC's" performance as he dominated the "Warmaster" in every facet of the fight!  Daniel came out immediately landing combinations and getting inside Josh's lengthy reach advantage.  Barnett could not takedown Cormier and just continued to eat punches instead of trying to avoid them which would tattoo his face red with blood as the evening continued.  Barnett landed but one important punch that hurt Dan at the end of the 1st round which Josh claims broke his hand.  Barnett was more aggressive in the 2nd but "DC" couldn't care less continuing to put together amazing combinations showcasing his hand speed and accuracy.  Cormier even slammed Barnett to the canvas and just won every aspect of the bout presenting stalwart confidence and savvy game planning.  Its just amazing how good "DC" is only 10 fights into his career and how fast he is advancing with the tutelage of AKA.  Now we wait to see if Barnett gets a chance at the UFC after he sees the doctors for stitches and gets a cast on his hand.  

Gilbert Melendez retains his Lightweight Championship defeating Josh Thomson by Split-Decision (48-47, 47-48, 48-47) which would become the theme of the evening.  "El Nino" started strong enough but never brought the storm we are accustomed to seeing.  Things were slow early but a growingly aggressive Melendez obviously won the 1st 3 rounds though they were competitive.  For the final 2 rounds Josh turned up his striking and touched up Gil getting the pro AKA crowd on his side.  The idiots in the stands boo'd the decision but they are morons who apparently feel winning 2 rounds adds up to more than 3.  Stupid and silly.  What we do know is we don't need a 4th fight as suggested by Mauro Ranallo and its a good thing fans don't get to judge fights.  Not the greatest day for Melendez but he did retain and he goes home to a gorgeous fiancee that Showtime was hip to put on camera over and over much to my delight.

Rafael Cavalcante tapped Mike Kyle in their rematch by Guillotine Choke only 0:33 into the 1st round.  "Feijao" came out with a right hand and a knee to "Mak's" dome rocking the AKA fighter and springing into his arms locking on the guillotine choke.  The submission was tight and  Kyle tapped while falling to the mat and Cavalcante awaits the return of Gegard Mousasi to determine the Light Heavyweight Champion for Strikeforce later this year.  "Submission Of The Night"

Chris Spang TKO's Nah-Shon Burrell 1:55 into the 1st round.  Sprang's ridiculous size advantage did him well as he rocked Nah-Shon with a strike early and then abused him with knees as Burrell staggered around the cage out on his feet.  Chris put him down and went in for the kill but the referee mercifully stopped the fight.  Burrell complained but he was getting destroyed and the stoppage was correct.  Impressive for Spang who I'll be happy to see again soon.  "(T)KO Of The Night"

Isaac Vallie-Flagg Upsets Gesias Cavalcante by Split-Decision (28-29, 29-28, 29-28).  "JZ" started strong and looked like a new man until the Jackson/Winkeljohn product refused to stop coming and you could almost see Gesias quit before your eyes.  It was nothing special but constant pressure and coming foward as Flagg just broke his opponent which is something we have seen before but I thought Cavalcante was past.  Once again a great game plan wins the day and "JZ" sees his dreams of being relevant fade into the nothing.  There is also no reason a judge should have awarded the bout to "JZ."

Guto Inocente defeats Virgil Zwicker by Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27) in a highly entertaining fight.  Guto just brought the striking bombs with spinning backfists and kicks and devastating attacks that hurt the iron chinned Virgil though the proud American Indian refused to go down.  Inocente shot his wad just punishing Zwicker for 15 minutes throwing a sick amount of pain to Virgil who continued to take it though he never gave much back.  Totally one sided but the crowd and I appreciated Zwicker never say die attitude and I'd watch both guys fight again.  "Fight Of The Night"

Gian Villante bests Derrick Mehmen via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 30-27, 30-27) in a one sided glacially moving bout.  Gian never got in trouble and just beat up Mehmen but I was less impressed in Villante.  This was a showcase fight but the endurance wasn't there nor was the relentless attack needed to become an elite fighter.  I expect more from Gian and am starting to doubt that he'll become a real player.  A one sided win yet still unimpressive.

Quinn Mulhern defeats Yuri Villefort by Split-Decision (30-27, 28-29, 29-28).  I feel like I keep saying this but Yuri started strong and just faded to a more aggressive attacking fighter.  This was a great tactical ground game early but then Villefort just ran out of gas and Quinn took over.  This also should have been a pretty cut and clean obvious bout to judge yet one blind man got it wrong.  Jeez the judging tonight.

Bobby Green defeats James Terry via Split-Decision (28-29, 29-28, 29-28). 4 bouts tonight out of 9 ended in Splits and were blatantly for the man that won.  At least the 3 judges worked tonight as the right overruled the wrong.  This fight happened too.  

5-4 on the picks which sucks.

Strikeforce Heavyweight Grand Prix Finals: Picks & Prognostications & El Nino

Strikeforce: Heavyweight Grand Prix Finals 
May 19, 2012
HP Pavilion
San Jose, California

Main Card (Showtime):
Strikeforce Heavyweight Grand Prix Finals
Josh Barnett (31-5) vs. Daniel Cormier (9-0) "Come you masters of war, You that build all the guns, You that build the death planes, You that build all the bombs."  Though the lyrics sing anti-war later, the "Warmaster" of today has come, bringing his myriad of weapons, to claim his rightful place among the Heavyweight elite of MMA, and his one shot at a return to the UFC where he left so many years ago as their Champion.  Barnett has built a career around well rounded fights and embarrassing people on the mat as he meets the undefeated, heavy handed, "Black Emperor" who has risen into recent prominence against a glass chinned giant.  It is just Barnett's time once again to shine and not drop the ball as he has done so many times in his troubled career.  Whether Dana White likes it or not, Josh is going to win his way back into the UFC doing what the fabled and beloved Fedor could not.  Dan has a great future in MMA and should also find his way to the UFC perhaps before Josh who will defend his title(?) one time after this bout before the Heavyweights officially bow out of Strikeforce.

WINNER-Josh Barnett by Rd.3 Submission

Lightweight Champion Gilbert Melendez (20-2) vs. Josh Thomson (19-4) 3 The "Rubber Match" nobody wanted to see is finally here.  Jeezus we can't find anyone interesting for "El Nino" to fight.  So, we have the "Punk" yet again with questions about his notorious health again, coming in off a lackluster win over the lackluster KJ Noons.  Provided Gil doesn't have a complete collapse he runs roughshod over Josh showing he is one of if not the best Lightweight in the world while Thomson has seen better days and goes on to be the gatekeeper of the gatekeepers.

WINNER-Gilbert Melendez by Rd.4 TKO

Rafael Cavalcante (11-3) vs. Mike Kyle (19-8) 2 [Rematch]  "Feijao" lost the last time around getting caught by the heavy handed "Mak" in 2009.  Mistakes were made but the Blackhouse fighter has continued to improve while Kyle still needs that lucky punch, which he does tend to land, but has little game anywhere else.  Percentages say Rafael has more tools and most rematches favor a new winner.

WINNER-Rafael Cavalcante by Decision

Nah-Shon Burrell (8-1) vs. Chris Spang (4-1)  Besides a more kick ass name, Nah-Shon is a better striker among strikers here and continues to improve while maybe not as quickly as one would hope.
WINNER-Nah-Shon Burrell by Decision

Prelims (Showtime Extreme):
Gesias Cavalcante (16-4-1) vs. Isaac Vallie-Flagg (12-3-1) Remember when "JZ" was good?  I do.  Waaay back in '07 "JZ" was becoming the free agent de jur in the 155 class before a plethora of injuries and just dismal performances killed his career.  Now stuck in purgatory he has gone 1-1-1 finally winning last out by Split-Decision.  "JZ" has redoubled his efforts with the Blackzilians and now faces a Jackson/Winkeljohn product on a 9 fight winning streak.  You know Flagg will have a smart game plan in place but if there is anything left of Gesias he should win a shutout decision at the least.  Cavalcante is a better striker and grappler and needs this win lest he heads to the minor leagues to slowly fade away forever.  Its a sad fate "JZ" is not ready for and the new "JZ" debuts here showcasing his new training and hopefully glimpses of the old killer inside.
WINNER-Gesias Cavalcante by Rd.3 Submission


Virgil Zwicker (10-2) vs. Carlos Augusto Filho (5-0) "Guto Inocente" as I completely dismiss the Team Quest guy.
WINNER-Carlos Augusto Filho by Rd.1 TKO


Gian Villante (9-3) vs. Derrick Mehmen (12-4) Gian has rebounded a bit after starting out with a lot of promise and should cruise against the "Caveman" who is looking to survive till the final bell.
WINNER-Gian Villante by Decision


Quinn Mulhern (17-2) vs. Yuri Villefort (6-0) Villefort has joined the Blackzilians to up his game in this fight of two promising up and coming Welterweights.  Yuri has been gone for a couple of years but I still feel his Jiu-Jitsu will win the day and the tapout.
WINNER-Yuri Villefort by Rd.1 Submission


James Terry (11-4) vs. Bobby Green (17-5) I don't think a lot of either guy but if you want conservative you go Terry while if you want flashy you go Green.  I'm flipping a disinterested coin.
WINNER-Bobby Green by Decision

UFC On Fuel TV 3 Results: The "Korean Zombie" & The "Cowboy" Impress

MAIN CARD (FUEL TV)
Chan Sung Jung submits Dustin Poirier via D'arce Choke in the 4th round of a great fight.  The "Korean Zombie" came out swinging and mixing his attack against a surprised Poirier.  Jung controlled the 1st round touching up Dustin but it was the 2nd round that could win "Round Of The Year" as the men battled exchanging takedowns and reversals on the floor in a dizzying array of submission attempts and changes of fortune.  The crowd was amazed and rocking with the combatants though in the 3rd "Diamond" began to find his stride.  Chan who admitted to a tough weight cut before the bout seemed to be slowing down considerably allowing Poirier to settle into his striking routine and taking the round.  The "Zombie" was back on the attack in the 4th and after a punch and flying knee that had Dustin reeling and converting to survival mode, Jung showed his submission prowess once again locking on the D'arce Choke and rendering Dustin near unconscious.  Just an spectacular fun fight to watch to end a controversial evening and the "Korean Zombie" calls out Featherweight Champion Jose Aldo which is a fight everyone wants to see.  "Submission Of The Night"
* Dustin was well trained and ready but the "Zombie" just took the momentum of the crowd and his recent successes and ran with it.  Some critics have said Jung isn't ready for a title shot (including Kenny Florian) but with Hatsu Hioki saying he isn't ready Jung is the natural choice provided "Scarface" gets by Erik Kotch in July at UFC 149.  Poirier lost but fought well and will still hover near the top of the division and a fight against Mark Hominick could provide a great show!

Amir Sadollah defeats Jorge Lopez by a razor close  Split-Decision (28-29, 29-28, 29-28).  Amir did not look that impressive and a good case could be made that Lopez won this fight.  Sadollah had trouble with Jorge's takedowns but Lopez needs to work on meaningful strikes before he can complain too much.  Not a great fight for either man.

Donald Cerrone cruised defeating Jeremy Stephens to a bloody pulp winning the Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27). The "Cowboy" was back to form and never got in any trouble as he just ruined Stephens with a mixture of flying knees and accurate striking over and over again.  Jeremy just could not get inside past "Cowboy's" striking as Stephens nose bloodied and his left eye closed.  The victory was never in doubt and just credit Stephens for not getting finished as he hung in there until the end.  A fun one sided fight to watch with Donald showcasing his skills and preparing yet another run at the belt.

Yves Jabouin defeats a tough Jeff Hougland by Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-26, 30-27).  This bout wasn't close either and once again it was amazing the loser survived the attack of the Tri-Star fighter.  Yves showed his notoriously exciting offense with spinning elbows, spinning punches, varied striking, and a spinning back kick that landed so hard on Hougland, who dropped to the mat in obvious pain, that the referee stepped in between the fighters but inexplicably didn't stop the fight.  Jeff then took even more punishment but the ref probably saved him from the finish with the indecision he showed.  Jabouin is improving steadily but its still not time to put him in against the elite quite yet.  

Igor Pokrajac defeats(?) Fabio Maldonado by Unanimous Decision (29-28, 30-27, 29-28) in an absolute robbery!  Igor took Fabio down immediately but it was Maldonado who landed the significant strikes from bottom and once back to the feet seemed to take control.  There is a possibility that Pokajac won a round but for the most part it was all Fabio landed his patented and beautiful body shots over and over and it really didn't seem like a close fight to anyone.  The judges of course got it wrong as the crowd showered the Octagon with boo's and Igor celebrated his gift.  This is the "Robbery Of The Year" so far and there is just no excuse for the judges getting this so wrong.  Just terrible.  "Fight Of The Night"

Tom Lawlor KO's Jason MacDonald 0:50 into round 1.  Jason looked off and a strong left had rocked his jaw but the right to the temple put MacDonald down as the referee rightfully stepped in giving the annoying Lawler his birthday victory.  Jason was back up to his feet quickly but the stoppage was correct.  Its always a shame when a good dude loses to such a douche bag.  Ah well.

PRELIMS (Facebook)
Brad Tavares defeats Dongi Yang by Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28) in yet another bout where many people disagreed with the decision.  It was the "Theme Of The Night."

Cody McKenzie taps Marcus LeVesseur by the dreaded Guillotine Choke that he always uses!  Everyone in the arena knew the choke was coming except for Marcus.  Known as "Lazy" LeVesseur for his legendary lack of training, Marcus was doing just fine early but as the combatants went to the ground, LeVesseur just hung out in Cody's arms as if inviting the submission.  It didn't take too long for McKenzie to lock up his "McKenzietine" to elicit the tap.  A head scratching loss for Marcus.

T.J. Grant defeats Carlo Prater via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27) going exactly as everyone thought it would.

Rafael Dos Anjos almost KO'd Kamal Shalorus but secured the RNC tapping his opponent only 1:40 into the 1st round.  Kamal never really had a chance to get going and I really expect more from Shalorus.  Credit Dos Anjos for doing what he needed and staying relevant in the Lightweight division.

Johnny Eduardo defeated Jeff Curran via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28) and no surprises here and "Big Frog" should retire.

Francisco Rivera defeated Alex Soto via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27) in another dominating one sided fight.

8-3-1 on the picks as we do not recognize the moronic judges who screwed Fabio Maldonado tonight.  The slump is over people MMAFO is back bitches!