MMA Discussion Thread - SPOILERS!

[FuzzyGopher]

Awesome triangle by Bocek.

[fenikz]

someone stream me!

[MetSox17]

someone stream me!

Thiiisss.

rep will be awarded.

[FuzzyGopher]

ufc.com has the prelims for free.

[josh07039]

Awesome triangle by Bocek. I was really surprised to see him manhandle Dustin like that. He jumped to mount and locked that in instantly.

[The_Dude]

I hope that GSP kicks Koscheck's ass. That guy is such a douche.

[LTgiants]

someone stream me!

I need one as well.

[The_Dude]

someone stream me!

Thiiisss.

rep will be awarded.

I need one as well.

Check your rep guyz.

I had to download a player, but it looks great.

[FuzzyGopher]

McCorkle is a strange looking fellow.

[MichaelJordanEberle (sabf)]

Would appreciate a stream as well, gents!

[The_Dude]

check the rep

[FuzzyGopher]

God damn, Alves looking like a monster.

[Caddy]

NEED STREAMMSSSSS.

I will love you long time.

[josh07039]

God damn, Alves looking like a monster.This is a fighter Alves should smash. However, he looks a lot healthier in terms of being slimmer and really doesn't seem like hes tiring at all.

[MetSox17]

Thiago raping.

[FuzzyGopher]

Awesome first fight, Thiago murdered Howard's knee.

[Cicero]

That was a flawless performance.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

Howard was built for Alves though.

[The_Dude]

NEED STREAMMSSSSS.

I will love you long time.

rep check time....

[iBoldin]

Whoever still needs a stream shoot me a PM. Mines worked all night so far.

[josh07039]

Howard was built for Alves though. Exactly. I just think that Rogan and Goldberg's praise is a little overblown. Alves looked great at what we already knew he was great at, striking. Howard is a decent striker with good power, but the only huge step forward for Alves seems to be the weight cut.

[MetSox17]

Exactly. I just think that Rogan and Goldberg's praise is a little overblown. Alves looked great at what we already knew he was great at, striking. Howard is a decent striker with good power, but the only huge step forward for Alves seems to be the weight cut.

He did have a couple of very impressive/dominating takedowns.

[ccB]

coughstreamcough? +rep but not for any illegal activities ;)

[SeanTaylorRIP]

He did have a couple of very impressive/dominating takedowns.

All of which though won't work against to top wrestling WW's.

[The_Dude]

sorry CCB: i tried rep, but i am all out. I also tried pming you, but your mailbox is full.

Is there a reason why we don't just post the link in a message? I don't remember anyone doing that before.

[LTgiants]

Stevenson got Rocked

[Caddy]

Holy Crap Mac Danzig.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

Damnit he finally won. Daddy should have taken him down instead of being dumb and wreckless.

[FuzzyGopher]

Lol, wow....

[MetSox17]

Wow, since when does Joe have a glass jaw? He got put to sleep with a jab with very little power to it.

[The_Dude]

wowzers. i didn't even really notice the punch at first.

[Caddy]

I'm really looking forward to the Struve fight. I hope the dutchman beats the crap out of McCorkle.

[josh07039]

All of which though won't work against to top wrestling WW's.Thank you for making my point for me. I'm so damn lazy.

Also, I think it was more that Joe ran in than the fact that he has a glass jaw. This is why footwork works and running doesnt.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

Olivera aint ready for the big time. Miller is close to a title shot.

[Complex]

I thought Olivera was gonna beat down Miller, guess not

[josh07039]

Olivera aint ready for the big time. Miller is close to a title shot.I'd love to see him and sotiropulous. Not really sure why he is fighting Dennis Siver. Kinda seems like a step back to me.

[Caddy]

I'd love to see him and sotiropulous. Not really sure why he is fighting Dennis Siver. Kinda seems like a step back to me.

It's most likely because the card is in Australia and they want to give Georgie a win. He deserves a title shot after Bendo/Pettis

[SeanTaylorRIP]

Siver is tough but there has to be a #1 contender fight probably against Miller, hard to sell a win over Siver as the fight that led to a title shot especially given Sot isn't a big mainstream MMA name.

[Caddy]

Either way Sot needs to be in contention. He's put up some wins against good opponents. Siver is probably just a stepping stone until the whole WEC/UFC situation is resolved. After that everything will become a lot clearer.

Interestingly I think it was possible that if the WEC didn't merge with the UFC, Sot might have fought for the title on the Sydney, Australia card.

[FuzzyGopher]

I would love to see the Ginger's punching accuracy for that last round.

[6270410908]

Hope everyone enjoyed Dustin Hazelett. He's gone.

[Caddy]

Skyscraper!!!

[FuzzyGopher]

McCorkle gassed halfway in.

[Chucky]

That reverse was pimp

[SeanTaylorRIP]

Time to give Struve a real opponent now.

[Chucky]

This next fight will prob be boring but whatever.


GSP

[MichaelJordanEberle (sabf)]

GEE ESS PEE!!!!!!!a

[MetSox17]

I'm rooting hard for GSP here. Hope he wipes the mat with Koscheck's face.

[Caddy]

Lol at Bocek. Calling out my boy Sotiropolous.

[FuzzyGopher]

GSP gives me a Stephan Bonnar.

[josh07039]

Am I the only one that wants a double knockout?

[Cicero]

Kos is walking straight forward and has no head movement. GSP is making him pay hard for it.

[Cicero]

Dat eye. Holy ****.

[Chucky]

Impressive to see GSP taken down. Too late in the round though. Still give that one to GSP

[6270410908]

Bad night for the trash talkers?

[MetSox17]

GSP is gonna jab Koscheck into submission.

Edit -

Aaand the eye is damn near closed.

[Chucky]

GSP is just dominant. No way that eye lasts 3 more rounds.

[MichaelJordanEberle (sabf)]

Come on GSP. Make him quit like BJ Penn.

[fenikz]

TORO TORO, gsp is a matador

[Chucky]

Well....GSP has now one 3 rounds and essentially the fight. People who hate on him for not "finishing" should honestly ****.

[Pit Bull #53]

"get that kris kringle dude outta there"

lmao

[Chucky]

Make that 4 rounds for GSP. Here we go now. Finish strong

[Caddy]

Damn that was a great fight.

[Chucky]

GSP is just way too ******* good at everything. He is the best p4p in the world right now and one of the best p4p of all time.

[MichaelJordanEberle (sabf)]

GSP, das wassup.

[JRTPlaya21]

Always a pleasure watching GSP at his best.

[FuzzyGopher]

Kos got absolutely dominated.

[Chucky]

Looks like GSP is gonna be fighting in Toronto in April. ******* epic.

[DHVF]

Yeah GSP without a doubt the best P4P fighter in the world at this point. It's ridiculous how dominant he is at this point. It'll be curious as they were questioning as to what'll be next.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

Shields is definitely a superior grappler to Kos, but if he can't get GSP down, he's even worse and slower on his feet than Kos.

[Caddy]

I don't know who in the welterweight division really deserves a shot. What's Jake Shields up to?

[Chucky]

I pray for GSP vs. Anderson in Toronto. More likely gonna be GSP vs. Shields. No way GSP doesnt fight in Toronto health pending. Gonna be such a ******* epic card....its happening in the ******* Skydome.

[FuzzyGopher]

Lol, Rogan went to shake Kos's hand and Kos didn't even see it.

[Caddy]

Worse co-main event, Struve vs McCorkle or Stann vs Leben?

[MichaelJordanEberle (sabf)]

GSP vs. Anderson in TO would be EPIC. I would really really want to go.

[Chucky]

Worse co-main event, Struve vs McCorkle or Stann vs Leben?

Well...one is paired with GSP...the other is paired with Edgar-Maynard. I'm shocked they didnt put a better comain event with Edgar Maynard.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

I pray for GSP vs. Anderson in Toronto. More likely gonna be GSP vs. Shields. No way GSP doesnt fight in Toronto health pending. Gonna be such a ******* epic card....its happening in the ******* Skydome.

Anderson is fighting Belfort in February that's not happening even if he wins and has little damage.

[Chucky]

Vitor could always get injured between now and February


*crosses fingers*

[FuzzyGopher]

I bet he goes to 185.

[E-Man]

Kos deserves no love at all for his performance. He cracked under pressure when he should have gone down trying. Getting outclassed by GSP isn't a bad thing at all, but you got to at least go out on your shield if you're going to talk that much ****.

As for GSP, once again he shows why he's the perfect mixed martial artist. Kos was pretty good at the wrestling, but he just owned him on the feet like it was nothing. When he fights Shields he'll do the same and prey upon that weakness. I think the only guys who can take him are at 185, and maybe after one or two fights he'll move up. Hopefully Anderson beats Vitor so we can see that fight after that. The thought of those two fighting is just salivating.

[Chucky]

I really think Dana is gonna want GSP to fight in Toronto so I'll guess he will fight shields

[Caddy]

Kos has some major balls and earned my respect. He was obviously in a lot of pain but fought through it. He could have quit but he didn't, he took it like a man.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

GSP should win easy against Shields but IMO Shields is on another level than Kos. Shields is world class top percentile grappler, also if he can survive a Hendo overhand right he's got a jaw and GSP couldn't knock him out so he can probably take more chances standing since even if he does get taken down it's not the worst thing for him to be on his back even though he's a primarily offensive top position grappler. I wouldn't write off Shields as being another Kos fight, he's a much smarter fighter, and superior grappler and strenght to Kos. A was a huge MW so I understand the issues against Kamp with the weight cut. Shields will be in shape if he fights GSP and is one of the only fighters who has any percent of a chance at the upset not including a freak punchers chance.

[E-Man]

I think GSP would knock out Shields because Shields has the worst striking in his weight class. His grappling is insanely good, but man does he look like a kid striking. He can take some punishment, but eventually he'd crumble since he can't take GSP down.

[Caddy]

http://picroda.jphip.com/japanese/jphip07615.jpg
When Ubereem meets Japan.

Bob Sapp 2.0 celebrity status. Except he can actually fight....

[6270410908]

Well...one is paired with GSP...the other is paired with Edgar-Maynard. I'm shocked they didnt put a better comain event with Edgar Maynard.


How do you like Leben, you go from Akiyama to....Brian Stann. Yay.

[nepg]

I think GSP would knock out Shields because Shields has the worst striking in his weight class. His grappling is insanely good, but man does he look like a kid striking. He can take some punishment, but eventually he'd crumble since he can't take GSP down.

Don't judge Shields on the Kampmann fight. He had no cardio from the weight cut, and we all know that wasn't normal Jake Shields. Shields took shots from Hendo. GSP has no KO power. Eventually, the fight will go to the ground.

It's the best fight possible for 170 and Shields matches up against GSP better than anyone in MMA.

[E-Man]

Oh naw, I'm definitely not judging Shields based on his last fight. I've seen the guy's fights for awhile now, and it's clear that he has some of the worst striking in MMA. Not only does he hold his head high and telegraph his shots, but he's incredibly slow and has no power at all. He's not going to beat GSP, or really anybody on the feet. Can he get GSP to the ground? Probably not. That's one of the hardest things to do. He hasn't been taken down but twice in 4 years, and that was to Kos who is one of the best wrestlers in the game. I like his chances on the ground because he's very skilled there, but I don't think he'd get the fight there and would just get owned on the feet.

[fenikz]

Just got back from WEC sparring/press thing, met Pettis, Cerrone, Jorgenson, Cruz, & Henderson

Cruz looks beat still cutting weight, was shaking during the interview. Cerrone is funny as **** & Henderson is the nicest guy in the world too bad Pettis is gonna make him tap via Triangle :)

[SeanTaylorRIP]

Bendo should win and actually has an extremely interesting skill set against Frankie, Gray though would probably be too strong for him to hold up. Don't count out Pettis he has as much potential as any 155er in the world. Explosive striking but more importantly one of the more explosive guards I've seen. If he loses and Barboza gets another win under his belt a potential fight between Barboza and Pettis is a fight I'd pay good money to see. You are right Fenikz Benson is one of the chillest MMA fighters. I remember when Spike did the primer for the Faber/Aldo card Benson said that he never goes to bars or clubs and that on Friday nights he'll go to Barnes and Noble get a Chai tea and read a book, haha it's hilarious his life is the furthest from a typical fighter.

[E-Man]

Man if Pettis and Barbosa fought it would automatically be Fight of the Night. The only thing keeping that fight from being great would be if we were dragged into the Twilight Zone that night.

[SwagU]

Wow this Pettis Henderson fight is awesome!!! Really looking forward to seeing a lot of these WEC guys make some noise in the UFC.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

Ridiculous grappling, both could be top 10 LW's. Both have good striking as well.

[SwagU]

Nice nut shot there lol. I always liked WEC, always found that there always very balls to the wall when they fight. Don't see either Pettis or Henderson fairing very well against accomplished wrestlers like Edgar or Maynard though.

[nepg]

Drop Kick! How did that not KO Bendo?!

[SwagU]

OMG!!!!!!!!!! Pettis is ridiculous. That is the craziest kick I have ever seen.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

OMG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Fight of the year. Ridiculous grappling and that Kick is legendary. Haha I've been hyping Showtime forever so glad he pulled it out and I love Bendo as well. Please let Frankie win, Frankie and Pettis could be insane. A lot of UFC LW's will be in trouble against guys like Pettis, Bendo, and Cerrone. They are so quick on the ground I'm not sure a lot of these UFC wrestlers are ready for it. BTW I don't think I am being a prisoner of the moment but I truly believe this is one of the greatest fights I've ever seen and maybe the best WEC fight for last. This wasn't a senseless brawl like Korean Zombie vs Garcia, the technique and skill in this fight was insane. Both fought off serious submission attempts and the striking was so dynamic. The end was so epic. Talk about a title fight that lives up to the hype. These two need to fight again down the line.

[E-Man]

Showtime deserves all the ladies that will be on his nuts for what he did there. I can't believe he did that ****! That's the greatest thing I've ever seen in MMA. I'm still in disbelief at that. That'll be something I'll be thinking about for months. I'll be eating some cereal in March thinking, "Gawd damn. He really did that ****!"

[SwagU]

My goal is to find a GIF of that kick and have it as my avy. Would of been sweeter if Ben was KO after it landed, but it shows how hard it is to put him away. The fight was absolutely ridiculous, the grappling, transitions, striking were all incredible.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zz3p63WSXZE/TQrst99qWTI/AAAAAAAAA-4/pduzoiHqZww/s1600/12.gif

It's not just the kick but the moment, 1 minute left in the 5th round of an epic battle.

[E-Man]

Beat me to it STRIP. Zombie Prophet is definitely living up to his name right now. He's the Zombie Prophet of Showtime!

[SeanTaylorRIP]

Haha I got to put it at the top of the page. BTW Faber vs Cruz as TUF coaches has to happen. I'm gonna miss the WEC, some of the best fights in the world for free. And sadly some of the middle of the road WEC fighters will be lost in the shuffle. Excited about the new matchups though.

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zz3p63WSXZE/TQrst99qWTI/AAAAAAAAA-4/pduzoiHqZww/s1600/12.gif

[E-Man]

Yeah. I loved how Cruz just challenged Faber after the fight. I can't get enough of that guy's style. Put both on TUF, then watch as a new star is born. I think he'll beat Faber. I can't see anyone stopping his style right now. Dana could sell him well if he does it right.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

Yeah Cruz looks unstoppable but Benevidez did do damage against him but was too small. Urijah will pose similar problems but is bigger and won't get taken down as easy. That will be an epic rematch as well. Dana's definitely pushing for Faber though, he already has star power. Marketing Cruz will be tough IMO. BTW Bendo has a fcking chin. Took a flying knee while charging in full speed, to that insane unexpected cage kick, and he also took a couple hooks flush in the face.

[SwagU]

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zz3p63WSXZE/TQrst99qWTI/AAAAAAAAA-4/pduzoiHqZww/s1600/12.gif

It's not just the kick but the moment, 1 minute left in the 5th round of an epic battle.

Damn STRIP you work fast. I love just watching it over and over again.

[FuzzyGopher]

I wanna see Chael on TUF just for the lulz. Faber would be awesome on there too and he is already fairly well known so he would probably attract a larger audience.

[6270410908]

My goal is to find a GIF of that kick and have it as my avy. Would of been sweeter if Ben was KO after it landed, but it shows how hard it is to put him away. The fight was absolutely ridiculous, the grappling, transitions, striking were all incredible.

If he had landed it with more than his toes, Henderson would have instantly gone out. Not to say that he didn't hurt him with it but I think he stunned him with it more than anything. He was a couple more inches of foot from a flush landing and that epic knock out. It was still crazy but as for why Henderson doesn't go out, watch the replay in super slow-mo and how he just slaps him with his toes.

[fenikz]

i would totally give that man a z-jay no ****, pettis is a god

my god, watching it all now, fight of the year. simply amazing, i will truly miss the WEC

[fenikz]

i am literally teary eyed, that was so ******* beautiful what a ******* fight

wow i mean wow simply nothing can ever top that

like if i urge people do 1 thing in their life it would be to watch this fight

[SeanTaylorRIP]

Ever since Pettis started training with Askren his takedown defense has been great most notably in the Roller fight. He can't stop Maynard especially from taking him down consistently but he can stuff a couple to keep it standing where he has superior striking to Maynard. Best of all though is that he has such an explosive guard that you always have to be carefull with lay n pray. He will definitely be the underdog against either man but he has a shot for sure. I really hope Frankie pulls the upset(which sounds weird saying considering how he owned BJ twice) because Frankie and Pettis on the feet will be interesting. 2 of the quickest LW's. Pettis though can definitely keep range and avoid a boxing match because of his kicks and reach advantage.

On a side note I do love Bendo and really hope he bounces back, he’s far too good to be forever known as the guy who got ninja kicked in the face. His grappling is top level and his wrestling base is so strong especially partly because he has the biggest thighs I have ever seen. A lot of the situations showtime was able to explode out I don’t think many UFC LW’s can do. Also he is far from a one dimensional grappler the guy has pretty good striking. I’d have no problem throwing him in there with KenFlo or Jim Miller although he’ll probably start off a little lower coming off a loss. Maybe he gets Olivera.

[Ravens1991]

I wanna see Chael on TUF just for the lulz. Faber would be awesome on there too and he is already fairly well known so he would probably attract a larger audience.


I agree, Chael VS. Bisping on TUF. That would be the best season yet

[SeanTaylorRIP]

That'd be the best trash talking but in terms of the fight that would be a pretty boring 3 round wrestling domination. Faber vs Cruz makes too much sense, TUF is the best way to promote the new lighter weight classes and Faber steps in already as a top 5 UFC star. I can't really think of any fighter right now who has more of a media following. He's even more visible than GSP. Only detraction is that Faber and Cruz are pretty chill guys so the smack talk will feel more forced by the producers than anything. Chael and Bisping you can leave a camera on for 14 straight hours and they won't stop.

[E-Man]

I wouldn't mind Chael vs. Bisping because I'm not in a rush to see either guy fight. Them missing 6 months wouldn't be such a big deal to me like when a title is held up. At the same time, I understand that the lighter weight classes need some exposure, and TUF is the best way to do it. Faber vs. Cruz would be huge for that.

[SwagU]

Just got back from my final exam, and all anyone could talk about is the kick by Pettis. We even went to the bar after the exam to celebrate and they were showing highlights of the fight and the whole bar was so focused on the highlights, then when they showed the kick the bar went nuts!!!!

I know some of you already have the kick as your avy, but if none of you mind I got to rock this thing also.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

It was such a ballsy move and forever has changed Pettis's life. While I had it 3 rounds to 2 for Pettis even prior to that kick in all honesty considering he was the defending champ I wouldn't be shocked if Bendo was leading the decision prior to that kick. That kick gave the round clearly to Pettis. 2 of the 3 judges scored it 48-47 for Pettis and I'm not sure they would have had it not been for that kick. One of the most clutch plays I've seen in sports in a long time. The moment was so huge and these guys had been battling for 4 1/2 rounds. Figures the last WEC fight of all time would be the best. Championship fights never live up to the hype. If this fight had taken place on the main card of a UFC card, everyone would be talking about this as a top 5 fight all time which I now consider it.

[fenikz]

oh it's deff way up there on my personal all time fights

[E-Man]

Just got back from my final exam, and all anyone could talk about is the kick by Pettis. We even went to the bar after the exam to celebrate and they were showing highlights of the fight and the whole bar was so focused on the highlights, then when they showed the kick the bar went nuts!!!!

I know some of you already have the kick as your avy, but if none of you mind I got to rock this thing also.

It's all good. I don't run a damn thing around here, so it doesn't bother me in the slightest if you use if someone has the same av as I do. Besides, that kick is so awesome that this forum needs more of it. lol

[robert pancake gallery]

does anyone know where i can find a cool affliction shirt? i just ordered a bodybuilding.com one and a tapout one, but i'm looking to diversify my wardrobe a bit

[6270410908]

Oved the Pettis/Hendo fight, don't get me wrong...definite top contender for fight of the year but personally I don't know if you can put it ahead of Silva/Sonnen. Granted it was an ass-kicking but Silva pulled it out at the last minute and literally saved his title and keot his legacy going with 1 minute to spare. You couldn't have written that into a movie script any better. Nice back and forth battle here but its survives mainly off the kick which didn't end the fight on its own. Had it been a K.O. Id be on board...but I think its Silva/Sonnen still.

[ESVAburnout]

We're about to have a NFLDC MMA match which is really going to be me beating his face in. Should be fun to watch though.

[Rob S]

We're about to have a NFLDC MMA match which is really going to be me beating his face in. Should be fun to watch though.

I want in on the fun too.........

[nepg]

does anyone know where i can find a cool affliction shirt? i just ordered a bodybuilding.com one and a tapout one, but i'm looking to diversify my wardrobe a bit
I can't tell if you're trolling or not.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

Oved the Pettis/Hendo fight, don't get me wrong...definite top contender for fight of the year but personally I don't know if you can put it ahead of Silva/Sonnen. Granted it was an ass-kicking but Silva pulled it out at the last minute and literally saved his title and keot his legacy going with 1 minute to spare. You couldn't have written that into a movie script any better. Nice back and forth battle here but its survives mainly off the kick which didn't end the fight on its own. Had it been a K.O. Id be on board...but I think its Silva/Sonnen still.

eh I don't know, I'll give the Silva fight being a bigger stage and more dramatic but much of the match was just Chael GnP trying to keep top position. The Bendo fight was back and fourth grappling and standup exchanges. The thing that separates it for me is that both Bendo and Pettis fought off numerous close submissions.

[JF4]

We're about to have a NFLDC MMA match which is really going to be me beating his face in. Should be fun to watch though.

Hmm. I wonder what his old account name was.

I can't tell if you're trolling or not.

Definite troll. Ignore till he goes away.

[E-Man]

Oved the Pettis/Hendo fight, don't get me wrong...definite top contender for fight of the year but personally I don't know if you can put it ahead of Silva/Sonnen. Granted it was an ass-kicking but Silva pulled it out at the last minute and literally saved his title and keot his legacy going with 1 minute to spare. You couldn't have written that into a movie script any better. Nice back and forth battle here but its survives mainly off the kick which didn't end the fight on its own. Had it been a K.O. Id be on board...but I think its Silva/Sonnen still.

Now I'm a huge Anderson Silva fan, and I absolutely loved that finish. It was one of the best comebacks I've seen in sports, and it just might be the best comeback in MMA history if you prefer that over Nog and Cro Cop. With that being said, I think that Fight of the Year has to be more back and forth, and I think the Bendo/Pettis fight was that. There was also the first Edgar/Penn fight, Leben/Akiyama, and the Santiago/Misaki rematch. None of them are the same magnitude of Silva/Sonnen besides Edgar and Penn 1 though, so I can see how that fight would be Foty.

[robert pancake gallery]

I can't tell if you're trolling or not.

cmon man im just trying to get my pump on at the gym with a cool affliction shirt... do you know any good bicep workouts?

[josh07039]

cmon man im just trying to get my pump on at the gym with a cool affliction shirt... do you know any good bicep workouts?JHe's trolling and even though its not exactly original or clever in any way, I enjoy it for some reason.

[6270410908]

eh I don't know, I'll give the Silva fight being a bigger stage and more dramatic but much of the match was just Chael GnP trying to keep top position. The Bendo fight was back and fourth grappling and standup exchanges. The thing that separates it for me is that both Bendo and Pettis fought off numerous close submissions.

Think of it this way though...it was 5 rounds of takedowns and ground'n'pound on the most dangerous fighter off his back arguably in MMA. Tell me you weren't blown away just by the fact that he keot top position and g'n'p Silva for 24 minutes basically without being submitted. I was blown away by his ability just to dominate Silva in he standup and ground game. Utterly blown away.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

Yeah it was highly impressive, but was it overly exciting, not really. Everyone though has their own criteria as for what is a great fight. For me whether a guy is dominant or not isn’t a real criteria for me if it was a great fight. For me a great fight is back and forth and has dramatic moments. For me that was the Bendo/Pettis fight. Back and fourth grappling exchanges, submission defenses, and exciting standup moments. And of course the dramatic ending. I think a great fight is more about stylistic matchup. Bendo and Pettis were so evenly matched up that we saw exciting exchanges everywhere, even in the clinch. Stylistically with a guy like Sonnen who wins by wrestling it’s not as exciting. Given Sonnen delivered some shocking strikes and knock downs but if I were to compare them on an even level I’d still take the Pettis fight. Both great fights though so who’s to complain.

[MichaelJordanEberle (sabf)]

Yeah it was highly impressive, but was it overly exciting, not really. Everyone though has their own criteria as for what is a great fight. For me whether a guy is dominant or not isn’t a real criteria for me if it was a great fight. For me a great fight is back and forth and has dramatic moments. For me that was the Bendo/Pettis fight. Back and fourth grappling exchanges, submission defenses, and exciting standup moments. And of course the dramatic ending. I think a great fight is more about stylistic matchup. Bendo and Pettis were so evenly matched up that we saw exciting exchanges everywhere, even in the clinch. Stylistically with a guy like Sonnen who wins by wrestling it’s not as exciting. Given Sonnen delivered some shocking strikes and knock downs but if I were to compare them on an even level I’d still take the Pettis fight. Both great fights though so who’s to complain.

I agree. I haven't seen the Pettis/Bendo fight(finals, finally done now though), but I'd always agree that exciting content>>>domination followed by lucky comeback. It's the reason in boxing that the Ali-Frazier fights are so well remembered, they wouldn't be if Joe dominated the entire fight and Ali managed to catch him. The back and forth war with neither man giving in was what made those classic.

[E-Man]

I agree. I haven't seen the Pettis/Bendo fight(finals, finally done now though), but I'd always agree that exciting content>>>domination followed by lucky comeback. It's the reason in boxing that the Ali-Frazier fights are so well remembered, they wouldn't be if Joe dominated the entire fight and Ali managed to catch him. The back and forth war with neither man giving in was what made those classic.

They would be remembered well because that's exactly what happened with Ali and Foreman. The Rumble in the Jungle is just as fondly remembered as the trilogy with Frazier. I think that the Frazier fights being a trilogy gives them an edge, but part of the Ali legend is making the miraculous comeback when he was seen as being too old to take out the monster that Foreman was back then.

[E-Man]

67Z7aVb49p8

This is one of the best MMA parodies I've seen.

[SwagU]

67Z7aVb49p8

This is one of the best MMA parodies I've seen.

The little bonk at the end kills me.

Duffe taking on Overeem Friday at Dream Dynamite. Duffe has actually been wearing a shirt to the press conferences saying Doubt Me!

Also Chuck Lidell officially retired today:

Chuck Liddell officially is retired from the UFC cage, but "The Iceman's" career isn't over.

The UFC Hall of Famer and former champion has turned in his fight gloves for a spot in the UFC's front office.

The 41-year-old MMA legend and business-school graduate today was named the UFC's executive vice president of business development.

[FuzzyGopher]

I guess that proves that it's not about what you know but who you know. Chuck is basically a high functioning rahtard at this point due to all his head trauma and now he lands a cushy executive job working with his buddy Dana White. I are jealous.

[E-Man]

Anyone staying up to watch Dynamite tonight/this morning? I'm tempted since it's got a few interesting matches, but I don't know if I can take watching a Japanese event live again.

[FuzzyGopher]

What time is the fight est? I'm a big Duffee fan but that fight could be a massacre.

[E-Man]

The event starts at 4 A.M. Est, but there is a **** ton of stuff that happens before the Duffee and Overeem fight. Japanese events have 1-3 hour intermissions that make you want to punt a few babies if you're not expecting them. I would guess that it'll come on around 9 A.M. your time, but that's me being conservative with the estimate.

[Caddy]

So Duffee didn't last very long...

[E-Man]

It was to be expected. He hadn't trained in months, and he took the fight on short notice. I just hope he gets paid because there have been many fighters claiming that FEG has yet to pay them. It's been a year now, and Gary Goodridge still hasn't been paid for his fight against Mousasi last NYE.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

He could have trained for a year he'd never stand chance against Ubereem, but damn when was the last time Allistair fought someone legit in an MMA fight. Wish he were in the UFC and not rotting in Strikeforce where it seems like Fedor will never agree to fight him. Gotta respect Duffee though for stepping in there on a weeks notice knowing he'd get his ish pounded in. Should have had Duffee fight Lashley to see who is more legit.

[FuzzyGopher]

What happened with Dufee and the UFC? I never really saw a legit reason of why he was let go. I heard rumors of roids and conflict with Dana but nothing substantiated.

What a mismatch though, Ubereem straight up thugged him. I love Muay Thai and Alistair seems to mix in his knees and punches beautifully.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

What happened with Dufee and the UFC? I never really saw a legit reason of why he was let go. I heard rumors of roids and conflict with Dana but nothing substantiated.

What a mismatch though, Ubereem straight up thugged him. I love Muay Thai and Alistair seems to mix in his knees and punches beautifully.

Dana said in an interview that Duffee was being a dhead. Didn't care if he were in the UFC was making demands like he was Lesnar. We know Dana is a control freak and it appears that Duffee was seeking superstar treatment. If you are Rampage or Brock you get some room but a guy with 1 win, you are in no position to make demands. The guy is just a tool. Even in an interview yesterday he said it was outrageous he was cut because he has a 7 second KO. That shows what kind of guy he is.

[E-Man]

He could have trained for a year he'd never stand chance against Ubereem, but damn when was the last time Allistair fought someone legit in an MMA fight. Wish he were in the UFC and not rotting in Strikeforce where it seems like Fedor will never agree to fight him. Gotta respect Duffee though for stepping in there on a weeks notice knowing he'd get his ish pounded in. Should have had Duffee fight Lashley to see who is more legit.

I want to see him fight someone legit too so we can put the hype to bed. Too many people are claiming that he's an elite guy at heavyweight regardless of his past and lack of quality wins at the weight. For me he's gotten his ass kicked way too many times to believe that he's some kind of superman now. He has improved, but I don't think that he can handle the big, efficient grapplers at heavyweight. Regardless of what I think, I want to actually see it happen. If he beats top guys he deserves all the credit in the world, but he's fought nothing but scrubs and lower level prospects that haven't proven much in Rogers and Duffee. I really wish that M-1 wasn't such a burden because we could have seen how far he's come by now with a fight against Fedor.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

Thank God Grispi didn't end up fighting Aldo, he was flat out horrendous tonight. Garbage performance for a guy who was supposed to show off in his debut. I guess Diego Nunes and Porier are in the mix for Aldo whenver, but Omigawa and Chad Mendes should be the title eliminator.

[Cicero]

****** Guida I hate this guy.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

****** Guida I hate this guy.

Exactly I know everyone loves him but I can't stand him.

[MetSox17]

****** Guida I hate this guy.

This. This. This.

[fenikz]

...why do you all hate him, he does nothing but have war after war after war

[MetSox17]

He just spent 8 minutes jumping around not doing anything.

[The_Dude]

I need a link please. My normal one is sketchy & in spanish.

Thanks in advance

edit: and for the record, I like Guida, but i logged on to see him talking with Rogan. Oh well. Looking forward to the Lebin (sp?) fight.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

Clay Guida has the perception of being exciting but 80% of them is wild head movement and no joke a lot of his excitement is from his air and energy. He'll rub his face and hair on a guys chest on the ground and people will get excited. BTW lets go Stun Gun! hate the Diaz bros.

[The_Dude]

No help on the link?

I can't find a quality site....

[MetSox17]

Haha. "My name is 'stun gun' and i want GSP"


LOL

[Caddy]

I wish stun gun could speak English because he sounds like he'd be a great guy to hear interviewed.

[The_Dude]

Thanks MetSox, LTgiants, & fenix.

[MaxV]

Wow, that's dumb.

You knock your opponent down, pounce on him, don't celebrate.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

Time to cut Vera, dude doesn't give a crap about MMA.

[The_Dude]

Vera's nose is ****** up!

[MichaelJordanEberle (sabf)]

Man, how did Stann pull that **** off

[SeanTaylorRIP]

Big ups to a Veteran. Haha damn wasn't expecting that at all. Ref didn't stop early enough but it was Leben so Josh respected that.

[Cicero]

Leben took a ton of punishment ****. I was hoping Stann would win so that was the ending I was looking for.

[The_Dude]

Stann is an interesting story. Nice win for him. Leben is a tough dude.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

Lets go Frankie!!! Have to see Frankie+Pettis!!!

[fenikz]

indeed Pettis shall rape Edgar :D

[SeanTaylorRIP]

Can't believe Frankie survived, he got embarassed.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

Incredible fight so far! Frankie's got mad heart and doesn't look like Gray can take him down like the first fight.

[MidwayMonster31]

Maynard was gassed in that round. If he keeps trying to land big shots, he won't have a chance on his feet.

[E-Man]

This fight is living up to the hype!

[SeanTaylorRIP]

That round will be huge if Maynard won it considering he definitely won round 10-8. Right now I have it 28-28 but Maynard could have easily won round 3 with the takedown.

[E-Man]

I feel sorry for all the idiots down talking this fight. It just proves that some "hardcore" fans aren't smart at all.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

I feel sorry for all the idiots down talking this fight. It just proves that some "hardcore" fans aren't smart at all.

Their first fight was nothing like this though so you can understand.

[E-Man]

Their first fight was a good one IMO. It was fast paced and close. Edgar may have to finish to avoid the draw though.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

I think you have to give it to Frankie. At worst I see it as a tie if Gray took 3rd round and first round was a 10-8.

[MichaelJordanEberle (sabf)]

That was a nucking futs fight.

[MidwayMonster31]

Understandable I suppose...

[Caddy]

Wow kind of a anti-climax there. And Maynard won't even get a rematch.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

So it Pettis on the shelf now for a long time?

[MichaelJordanEberle (sabf)]

wowwwwwwwwwwwwww

[MaxV]

It makes sense.

First round was 10-8, and the rest were 3-1 Edgar.

[E-Man]

The draw is understandable. Maynard easily had round 1 by a 10-8. He nearly killed Edgar, so he at least deserves that as a 10-8. I think he won round 3 too, and giving Edgar the remaining rounds makes that a draw IMO. I'm not usually one to complain about the 10 point must system, but if there's a flaw there it's 10-8 rounds leading to draws without a finish.

No matter what, this was an amazing fight that I'm glad to have watched. One of the best championship fights in recent memory. What happens with Pettis now? Do they have him fight Edgar with Maynard getting an instant shot, or do they push it back? Someone is going to get screwed.

Sorry if I spoiled anything.

[MidwayMonster31]

It makes sense.

First round was 10-8, and the rest were 3-1 Edgar.I was thinking the same thing.
Round 1 10-8 Maynard
Round 2 10-9 Edgar
Round 3 10-9 Maynard
Round 4 10-9 Edgar
Round 5 10-9 Edgar
47-47

[SeanTaylorRIP]

The draw is understandable. Maynard easily had round 1 by a 10-8. He nearly killed Edgar, so he at least deserves that as a 10-8. I think he won round 3 too, and giving Edgar the remaining rounds makes that a draw IMO. I'm not usually one to complain about the 10 point must system, but if there's a flaw there it's 10-8 rounds leading to draws without a finish.

No matter what, this was an amazing fight that I'm glad to have watched. One of the best championship fights in recent memory. What happens with Pettis now? Do they have him fight Edgar with Maynard getting an instant shot, or do they push it back? Someone is going to get screwed.

I think Pettis fighting Edgar first then Grey getting the next shot seems most fair. Will have to see the medical suspensions on both Frankie and Gray though.

[E-Man]

I forgot about the medical suspensions. Edgar got beat really bad in that first round, so he might need some time off. Maybe they have Maynard fight Pettis for a title shot if Edgar needs time to heal. That wouldn't be fair to Pettis since he was promised to fight the champ, and you have to stick by that. I just don't want Maynard on the sidelines for a while without a fight until a long time. It's too bad they have G-Sot fighting Siver in Germany. That should so be Maynard right now.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

Yeah you can't really screw Pettis out of a title shot, that kind of kills the flavor of the WEC merger and is unfair as Bendo and Pettis were told they were fighting for a UFC title shot which they went all out. It's just a big mess. Sucks for Sot and Jim Miller though. Everything is pushed back. Don't expect Dana to announce anything tonight.

[E-Man]

I forgot about Jim Miller too. I know he's fighting Shalorus at 128, and he's already fought Mayanrd, so I wouldn't want to see that just yet. Florian is hurt, so......damn, Maynard just fought him before he fought Edgar again. 155 is so deep, but that draw slows things up a little.

For shits and giggles, they should have a triangle TUF with Edgar, Maynard, and Pettis. They can have a WWE style triple threat match to prove the TRUE champion. lol

[Caddy]

I forgot about the medical suspensions. Edgar got beat really bad in that first round, so he might need some time off. Maybe they have Maynard fight Pettis for a title shot if Edgar needs time to heal. That wouldn't be fair to Pettis since he was promised to fight the champ, and you have to stick by that. I just don't want Maynard on the sidelines for a while without a fight until a long time. It's too bad they have G-Sot fighting Siver in Germany. That should so be Maynard right now.

G-Sot is fighting Siver in Australia! I'll be there!

[FuzzyGopher]

"Craig just said via Dana: Anthony Pettis will get the next lightweight title shot."

http://twitter.com/ARIELHELWANI

[Caddy]

It's tough to argue over that to be honest. Pettis was promised a shot and they do need to unify the belts. Maynard has a right to be upset though.

[E-Man]

I can't complain. He is supposed to fight to unify the titles, and since there's no winner tonight Edgar is the champ he needs to fight.

[Chucky]

I kind of would just rather they screw over Pettis to be honest. I really want to see another Edgar/Maynard fight and I want it now. I understand it might not be the most fair, but that is what I would rather see

[Bosanac01]

I don't usually post in this thread, but there is not an MMA event I miss. Tonight was such a great show.

http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/515639/Vera_Nose_medium.jpg

His reaction was hilarious even after he lost the fight.

http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/515655/Veradecision.png

[fenikz]

I kind of would just rather they screw over Pettis to be honest. I really want to see another Edgar/Maynard fight and I want it now. I understand it might not be the most fair, but that is what I would rather see

you are crazy sir, Pettis should headline every card ever

[Bosanac01]

Maynard didn't beat Edgard so you gotta give to Pettis.

[FuzzyGopher]

Hmmm, now there are reports that Dana changed his mind and there will be Maynard v Edgar III.

http://mmajunkie.com/news/21939/ufc-boss-has-change-of-heart-frankie-edgar-vs-gray-maynard-iii-up-next.mma

[Caddy]

If they are both injury free, you could probably get the rematch done. UFC 127 please. We need a quality main event for that card! (Penn vs Fitch is solid, but I'd rather Frankie vs Gray)

[SeanTaylorRIP]

Hmmm, now there are reports that Dana changed his mind and there will be Maynard v Edgar III.

http://mmajunkie.com/news/21939/ufc-boss-has-change-of-heart-frankie-edgar-vs-gray-maynard-iii-up-next.mma

God sounds like Pettis is going to get screwed over will lose his title shot and will have to fight someone tough. Saw a Pettis interview where he said he'll fight someone else if the UFC makes him and he's here to fight the best. Sounds like Dana took the easy way out, was a prisoner of the moment and saw a guy in Pettis who will do what he wants and a guy in Maynard who is mad pissed. Too bad for Pettis though. Would have been a great matchup with Frankie but now will likely get outgrappled by whoever they put him up against maybe guys like Sot, Miller, or Florian. TBH though if they are gonna rob him of his title shot for the fans they should just give us Pettis vs Bendo pt. 2.

[FuzzyGopher]

God sounds like Pettis is going to get screwed over will lose his title shot and will have to fight someone tough.

Yeah, it really sucks for him, he got a raw deal. What were the odds of a draw? Kind of a freaky thing to happen to him. I have a feeling that he was going to be one of the TUF coaches against the winner of last nights fight too, so things seem really ****** up right now.

[Chucky]

Looks like 129 in Toronto is gonna be:

GSP vs. Shields
Randy vs. Machida

While I don't love that fight with Randy.....I would ******* lvoe to see Randy fight live.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

Randy's gonna have to do his best to clinch Machida against the fence but that will be tough to do.

[Chucky]

How fast do you think they can get Maynard and Frankie to fight again. Would ******* love to see it at 129.

[Hollywood]

The challenger has a responsibility to win the fight, not draw. Pettis should get the title fight, bad call by Dana White, but whatever.

[Caddy]

I read today that Dana was backing out of his decision for Edgar/Maynard rematch. I hope they finalise this mess soon.

[MaxV]

If it is Edgar-Maynard, does Pettis get someone else to prove himself as a #1 challenge?

[MetSox17]

The challenger has a responsibility to win the fight, not draw. Pettis should get the title fight, bad call by Dana White, but whatever.

This is how i see it as well. You got your shot and you didn't win. Even Dana has always preached not to leave it to the judges, let Pettis take his shot now. Especially since he was told that's what he would get, i think Dana is a man of his word and will give him the title fight.

[FuzzyGopher]

This is how i see it as well. You got your shot and you didn't win. Even Dana has always preached not to leave it to the judges, let Pettis take his shot now. Especially since he was told that's what he would get, i think Dana is a man of his word and will give him the title fight.

He told Ariel Helwani that Maynard would get an immediate rematch. Which is weird since he told his PR guy to announce that Pettis would get his title shot during the post fight press conference.

[MetSox17]

So in other words we don't know ****.

I guess ill just wait until something official comes out before i berate/praise Dana White.

[JF4]

This is how i see it as well. You got your shot and you didn't win. Even Dana has always preached not to leave it to the judges, let Pettis take his shot now. Especially since he was told that's what he would get, i think Dana is a man of his word and will give him the title fight.

Dana has backed out of giving title shots enough times. Examples could be Condit, Maynard before he beat K-Flo, Jon Fitch...theres more than that too. I don't think it has to do with him not being a man of his word but rather it has to do with him not having the final word on fights with guys like Joe Silva having a large say also.

UFC has recently given 2 and what would have been 3 close title fights a rematch (Penn/Edgar, Rua/Machida, and Sonnen/Silva). I don't see why this fight should be an exception because like the rest it was a) very exciting b) very close.

I think if you can get Edgar/Maynard 3 sooner rather than later (all depends on the medical suspensions they get) than it will be an easy fight to sell and better for the UFC.

[FuzzyGopher]

So in other words we don't know ****.

I guess ill just wait until something official comes out before i berate/praise Dana White.

Basically, but if it makes any difference he told Ariel several hours after the press conference. Here is the interview.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NIl8xQSq0Xs

[fenikz]

I met that guy :)

[FuzzyGopher]

Met who???

[SeanTaylorRIP]

Dana has backed out of giving title shots enough times. Examples could be Condit, Maynard before he beat K-Flo, Jon Fitch...theres more than that too. I don't think it has to do with him not being a man of his word but rather it has to do with him not having the final word on fights with guys like Joe Silva having a large say also.

UFC has recently given 2 and what would have been 3 close title fights a rematch (Penn/Edgar, Rua/Machida, and Sonnen/Silva). I don't see why this fight should be an exception because like the rest it was a) very exciting b) very close.

I think if you can get Edgar/Maynard 3 sooner rather than later (all depends on the medical suspensions they get) than it will be an easy fight to sell and better for the UFC.

But this wasn't just any normal promise, this was a plan as part of an organizational merger. Two guys fought for the WEC title and a UFC title shot. That night they even gave Cruz a UFC belt. It kind of weakens the whole merger to push down their title holder to just contender status. Gray didn't win the title so he has to wait.

[E-Man]

I think that Dana is going to let the emotion blow over before deciding what to do with the lightweight title. Either way it goes Pettis or Mayanrd has a legitimate claim to fight for the title, so I'm thinking that he'll let things settle before making a final decision.

Regardless of what happens, I'm certain that we'll see Edgar and Maynard fight again. Even if Edgar fights Pettis and loses, they'll find some way to have those two fight again. Hopefully they show Edgar/Maynard 2 on UFC Unleashed 24/7 so people can know how great those two are. I don't think that there is a person alive, besides B.J. Penn worshipers, that isn't a Frankie Edgar fan now. Getting your ass kicked like that and coming back is legendary stuff. I always liked the guy's hustle, but now he's one of my favorite fighters. Gray didn't look too bad either because he kept at it and adjusted well.

[JF4]

But this wasn't just any normal promise, this was a plan as part of an organizational merger. Two guys fought for the WEC title and a UFC title shot. That night they even gave Cruz a UFC belt. It kind of weakens the whole merger to push down their title holder to just contender status. Gray didn't win the title so he has to wait.

Good points. That's why I kind of alluded to only wanting to see Edgar/Maynard 3 if they can have it sooner rather than later. This would allow Pettis to wait for the winner and you could still merge the two titles.

Anyway it shakes out its still a very tough decision for the UFC.

[nepg]

Maynard wouldn't be getting hosed by not getting a rematch, he didn't win (most sane people had it 10-8, 9-10, 10-9, 9-10, 9-10 - DRAW). They can do Edgar-Maynard III down the line...there doesn't need to be a belt involved.

[fenikz]

Met who???

pr dude, but i also met most every fighter at WEC 53

[E-Man]

Speaking of WEC 53, what was up with all the boos? People were booing for everything, even the good fights.

[fenikz]

i never heard any, place was loud as hell

[SeanTaylorRIP]

Speaking of WEC 53, what was up with all the boos? People were booing for everything, even the good fights.

Really didn't notice any.

[fenikz]

Generally speaking Arizona is one of the most knowledgeable places in the US for MMA, a lot of fighters live here and train here, a lot of them are even ASU alum

[E-Man]

Hmmm. I heard a lot of boos that night, and I know some guys were complaining on various MMA forums about it too. Maybe it's the fact that I watched it by myself and wasn't distracted by other noise, but I recall a lot of booing in both the Shalorus and Cerrone fights.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

I can kind of understand Shalrous because he's lay n pray which doesn't happen in the WEC often, don't remember seeing the Cerrone fight.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

http://mmajunkie.com/news/21972/strikeforce-tourney-takes-shape-with-overeem-vs-werdum-barnett-vs-rogers.mma

Holy crap the strikeforce 8 man tourny is amazing, love the matchups

Alistair Overeem vs Fabricio Werdum
Fedor vs Big Foot Silva
Arlovski vs Kharitonov
Brett Rogers vs Josh Barnett

[Raiderz4Life]

http://mmajunkie.com/news/21972/strikeforce-tourney-takes-shape-with-overeem-vs-werdum-barnett-vs-rogers.mma

Holy crap the strikeforce 8 man tourny is amazing, love the matchups

Alistair Overeem vs Fabricio Werdum
Fedor vs Big Foot Silva
Arlovski vs Kharitonov
Brett Rogers vs Josh Barnett

That's gonna be great. I hope Fedor can win it and show us some of the Fedor of old.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

That's gonna be great. I hope Fedor can win it and show us some of the Fedor of old.

Big Foot is too clunky and slow footed for Fedor. Mike Kyle tooled him on the feet but just couldn't finish him because he was 60+ pounds lighter. Fedor will finish Silva. Big Foot's only chance is to take down Fedor and try to pound him out or pull a sub off the top.

[MaxV]

Wow, great card.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

The tournament Quarters are on two different cards. The Fedor/Silva and Arlovski/Kharitonov fights are in February the other two fights haven't been announced yet.

[E-Man]

I really didn't think that Strikeforce was ever going to have a HW tournament. Their HW division is so messed up that getting their top guys to fight in a tourney seemed like it was impossible. The way the bracket is set up it's just the matches we should have got vs. other heavys looking for redemption of some kind. Arlovski, Sergei, Rogers, and Barnett aren't really relevant, so it's basically them fighting for a title shot while Fedor, Bigfoot, and Werdum determine if Overeem keeps the belt or not.

It's better than nothing, so I'm not going to complain. With my boy Cain being out for a while, it'll give the heavyweight division some interesting action.

Edit: That's if M-1 doesn't screw things up by renegotiating again if Fedor beats Bigfoot.

[SwagU]

UFC 129 in my hometown of Toronto is looking awesome:

Rumoured UFC 129 Card

UFC Welterweight Title Fight - Georges St-Pierre vs. Jake Shields

Randy Couture vs. Lyoto Machida

Mark Bocek vs. Ben Henderson

Jonathan Brookins vs. John Makdessi

Rory MacDonald vs. James Wilks

There are also rumours floating around of wanting to put another title on the line at the event, possibly Maynard VS. Edgar 3. Can't wait until April 30th!!!!

[nepg]

I really didn't think that Strikeforce was ever going to have a HW tournament. Their HW division is so messed up that getting their top guys to fight in a tourney seemed like it was impossible. The way the bracket is set up it's just the matches we should have got vs. other heavys looking for redemption of some kind. Arlovski, Sergei, Rogers, and Barnett aren't really relevant, so it's basically them fighting for a title shot while Fedor, Bigfoot, and Werdum determine if Overeem keeps the belt or not.

It's better than nothing, so I'm not going to complain. With my boy Cain being out for a while, it'll give the heavyweight division some interesting action.

Edit: That's if M-1 doesn't screw things up by renegotiating again if Fedor beats Bigfoot.
Barnett, Kharitonov, Arlovski, and Rogers should become relevant again because of this tourney. They're all legit. Barnett still might be the #2 HW in MMA skill wise... Kharitonov is always a threat, especially if he takes this US **** serious and gets in shape... These guys have just been inactive or fighting clowns around the world lately and not looking as impressive as they have in the past. This could remind people why the UFC's HW division was thought of as being so utterly weak until the last year or so...

And I love that Coker put the guys who have been relevant recently on the same side. That way we're not disappointed in the final match-up at the end of the tournament because so-and-so didn't get there due to losing or injury...

My dream for this tournament is for it to come down to Fedor v. Barnett. Finally.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

I feel like Randy vs Machida is going to be extremely boring since Machida doesn't press. It will be a ton of cage clinching. It's going to be overlooked but the fight I am most excited for is the Bocek and Bendo fight. Most people don't realize it but Bocek has some of the best bjj in the UFC. Bendo though can't be submitted so it will be back and forth although standing Henderson has a big time advantage. Funny because I don't know if it was intentional but this card is a grappling fans wet dream. Every single fight from the GSP/Shields fight to the Brookins/Makdessi, Wilks/Mcdonald fights will be grappling wars.

[SwagU]

Not sure about Couture VS Machida, I think the Rampage loss might have woken Machida up to press more.

Bocek's BJJ is insane. He actually taught a few classes at Xtreme Couture in Toronto. Learned so much from him. It's also goona be good to see how Bendo responds to his loss to Pettis in this one.

Really happy to see Brookins make his debut, and Rory come back from his injury/tough loss to Condit.


Might not be everyones type of card, but im really enthused about the card, especially if they put another title on the line.

[Chucky]

Gotta say I am pretty ******* pissed about this card. Dana was talking about it it like it was going to be the best card since 100. I would hope that they add another big time fight if they really do want to sell out the ******* Skydome.

[E-Man]

Barnett, Kharitonov, Arlovski, and Rogers should become relevant again because of this tourney. They're all legit. Barnett still might be the #2 HW in MMA skill wise... Kharitonov is always a threat, especially if he takes this US **** serious and gets in shape... These guys have just been inactive or fighting clowns around the world lately and not looking as impressive as they have in the past. This could remind people why the UFC's HW division was thought of as being so utterly weak until the last year or so...

And I love that Coker put the guys who have been relevant recently on the same side. That way we're not disappointed in the final match-up at the end of the tournament because so-and-so didn't get there due to losing or injury...

My dream for this tournament is for it to come down to Fedor v. Barnett. Finally.

Arlovski's chin is too shot. I don't think that he can take too much anymore, or at least not to the point of being a top guy again. Sergei is past his prime IMO. Yeah he can have a career resurrection of sorts, but until it happens I don't think he'll be a top guy anymore. I don't think that Barnett is going to get licensed again. He's made himself look like such a joke with how he has responded to the CAC by not showing up to his hearings. I doubt he'll take place in this tourney, and even if he does it's been so long since he's beat someone relevant. How far has he slipped? That's pretty much my thinking.

But I agree that the best guys are on the same side. It guarantees us the better matchups while giving one or two heavyweights some career redemption. Personally I'll be rooting for Fedor. It's hard not to be a fan since I've rooted for him for so long. In spite of all the nonsense with M-1 renegotiating after every fight and all, I still find myself hoping that he'll own Bigfoot, Overeem, and whoever is on the other side of the bracket.

Gotta say I am pretty ******* pissed about this card. Dana was talking about it it like it was going to be the best card since 100. I would hope that they add another big time fight if they really do want to sell out the ******* Skydome.

I'm thinking that the Cain injury might have something to do with it. They were probably going to have Cain vs. Dos Santos on the Toronto card, but with him being hurt that won't happen. Maybe they get JDS a fight on the card anyway if he can't wait for Cain to fully heal. JDS vs. Carwin would be a pretty sweet addition if they can make that happen.

[Chucky]

Ya, I agree with that. When they first announced the fight expected it to be the HW championship. Hopefully they can get the Edgar-Maynard rematch done in time, but I do expect them to try and get some sort of legit Heavyweight matchup on the card.

[SwagU]

I would love to see Rampage fight on the card(mostly because he is my fav fighter). I say you put him against the winner of Franklin vs Griffin. The winner of that one faces the winner of Jones vs Bader for #1 contender. Would love to see a Griffin vs Rampage rematch on the card.

[Chucky]

Those fights are happening in a month. They couldn't fight that soon.

[SwagU]

There fights are at the begining of February, giving them about 3 full months. Yes a little soon, but i've seen shorter time off between fights.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

Any news on when Carwin might be back?

[MichaelJordanEberle (sabf)]

Gotta say I am pretty ******* pissed about this card. Dana was talking about it it like it was going to be the best card since 100. I would hope that they add another big time fight if they really do want to sell out the ******* Skydome.

I dunno, if GSP is on it, it'll probly sell out. I mean come on, we're both Canadian, we know the truth. Canadians love nothing more than Canadians. If a Canadian is successful in any athletic event or entertainment genre, he or she(well usually he if it's sports) is a national hero and every Canadian is fully aware of their Canadian-ness.

[Chucky]

I dunno, if GSP is on it, it'll probly sell out. I mean come on, we're both Canadian, we know the truth. Canadians love nothing more than Canadians. If a Canadian is successful in any athletic event or entertainment genre, he or she(well usually he if it's sports) is a national hero and every Canadian is fully aware of their Canadian-ness.

ACC...sure....but the Rogers Center seats over 45 thousand. I just don't see that happening with the current card at the prices they will be charging.

[fenikz]

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[SwagU]

There is no doubt in my mind that it is going to sell out. Put the card aside you have MMA in Ontario for the first time. I know that a lot of the crowd at the Montreal cards were from Ontario, and I know my reason for not going and many others reason was travel, hotel and other expenses. So the way I see it you now have a added population of people able to go. Plus I guarantee other Provinces like Quebec and Manitoba will also show up, possibly even some people from the States. To be honest most do not even care about the card, they just wan't the experience.

When do tickets go on sale anyways? Im anxiously waiting to pounce on Ticketmaster for atleast 10 tickets.

[Chucky]

I agree that it will likely sell out, but the Skydome is a hell of a lot bigger than the Bell Center.

[SwagU]

I agree that it will likely sell out, but the Skydome is a hell of a lot bigger than the Bell Center.

That was there main point of choosing it over the ACC so they could smash the attendance record. Actually heard Dana say that he was impressed when he watched Pacquaio fight at Cowboys Stadium saying that he was amazed that it kept its feel, and was interested with putting a fight on there. So would Dana dare do a event in Dallas to smash this record?

[E-Man]

I hope he does an event at Cowboy Stadium because I'd do my best to make it this time. Last time I had a few things come up that kept me from going to UFC 103 with Franklin and Belfort. This time I'd probably prepare for it better, especially if it's something huge like Anderson vs. GSP. That'd be perfect here because neither guy would get a home town crowd.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

So Frankie has a medical suspension until July, so no Maynard/Frankie any time soon especially not in Toronto. So Pettis definitely now has lost his title shot no way he sits up to a year or more.

[E-Man]

Maybe they could have Pettis fight Maynard while Frankie is injured. It would keep them both busy, and it would sort of solve the dilemma on who gets the title shot.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

If Maynard wants to. Seems like Gray feels like he is owed an immediate rematch. Who knows we've seen how long Rashad has waited for Shogun, so who knows maybe he thinks the same way. At least it appears as if Pettis will fight whoever the UFC gives him. Really I still think the best option is a Bendo rematch. It was an amazing first fight and regardless of who wins the UFC can still promote the unification of the titles. If Pettis loses to a Kenflo or Sot the unification of belts idea is killed.

[SeanTaylorRIP]

SF challengers series tonight @ 11. Main event can't wait to see T-Wood. Also can't wait to see Rhadi Ferguson's SF debut. One of the best grapplers I have ever seen live in person. He has a shot to be great in MMA. If you could give him Kimbo's hands he'd be unstoppable. Also can't wait to see Ron Humphrey and OSP. St. Preux has been on a tear and of course got to root for the football guys.

[E-Man]

Oh yeah, I forgot that Rhadi was debuting tonight.