Archive for the ‘UFC’ Category

UFC 151 Cancelled.

Posted: August 23, 2012 in Combat Sports, UFC
Tags: , ,
6

Video of Jones calling Hendo out for TRT

For the first time in promotion history, the UFC will be cancelling an event. Dan Henderson was scheduled to fight Jon Jones for the light heavy weight title, but due to a partial tear of his MCL in his right knee. According to White the injury originally occurred a few weeks ago, and continued to worsen as he trained. The event was almost saved when Chael Sonnen agreed to take the fight on short notice, but Jones declined. “Greg Jackson is a Fucking sport killer” White said. According to White Jackson advised Jones that taking the fight with Chael would be the biggest mistake of his career. “It has never happened before, a champion turning down a fight!” White said.

Plans are that Lyota Machida will now face Jon Jones at the next pay per view which was originally supposed to be UFC 152, but will now be promoted as 151, since this event was cancelled. “This is gonna cost us a shit load of money!” White said. “Me and Lorenzo are both disgusted.” he later lamented with regard to his relationship with Jon Jones. “This is a selfish disgusting decision that effects alot more than Jon Jones.” White went on to point out that many people who are involved behind the scenes of a fight, and the under-card fighters are the ones who will be hurt by Jones’s decision

According to White, Chael Sonnen was pumped to take the fight, even calling Jones a “mental midget”, and continued saying “there will be no spinning back fists in this fight, I’ll be him mentally and physically!” Sonnen said according to White.  “Sonnen is a lunatic…but he is willing to step up and fight and I really respect that!” White said. The lost of revenue for the lost event has yet to be figured, but with the prelims airing on FX and the lost pay per view buys, the UFC has ever right to be angry with their paper champion.

Dana White also had some choice words for Jon Jones famed trainer Greg Jackson’s advice to stop the fight: “I dont give a shit what Jackson thinks the guys a fucking weirdo, Greg Jackson should be interviewed by a psychiatrist!” Obviously there is some major issues between the sports largest promotion, and one of the sports best camps.

The frustration in White was obvious, he discussed his limited options: “Being a fight promoter I can’t make a fighter fight, you are either a fighter or your not!” White said. “I can’t make you fight, but its probably not a good idea for you not too!” With the event this weekend now scraped, and the fight agree ment with Machida yet to be signed , White warned.”He ain’t turning down the Machida fight!

The Enigmatic Nick Diaz MMA’s Polarizing Magnet

Posted: August 23, 2012 in Combat Sports, UFC
Tags: , , ,
0

Nick Diaz is without a doubt one of the worlds most talented fighters. He has fought every big name in his weight class, has never once in his career appeared to be outmatched. Questions regarding the Stockton California native have never been with regard to his ability. The Ceasar Gracie fighter has made headlines for both his amazing fighting skills, and also his strange behavior. Including his absence from press conferences, his involvement in a post fight brawl with Jason ‘Mayhem’ Miller during a nationally televised Jake Shields fight, the notorious incident in a Las Vegas emergency room where he and Joe Riggs had to be separated after punches were thrown, Post fight brawl with K J Noons’s Father, then of course the two positive drug tests, for Marijuana metabolites.


Certainly those incidents would drive any employer to the point of firing him. Taken on these incidents, the elder Diaz is easily pegged a thug, or a bad sport. However,  those who know the soft spoken fighter, say the exact opposite. Nick Diaz is consistently sought out by fighters to train with, and more often than not he accepts those invitations. Recently even assisting Ronda Rousey prepare for her last two fights. Odd behavior for a bad ass who only thinks of himself. For those who take the time to know this enigmatic fighter, his personality and work ethic are magnetic. Heavyweight contender Roy Nelson has been training recently with the Diaz brothers at Roger Maywether’s Boxing Club, and he considers Nick to be a hard working, devoted training partner. Even his arch nemesis Georges St. Pierre considers Diaz to be an intelligent fighter, who knows how to play the game. Using intimidation, and attitude
to both control and to sell the fight.


Currently Nick is training full time with his younger brother Nate, who has a title fight coming up against Benson Henderson. Being the consummate teammate Diaz is always assisting Gilbert Melendez, Jake Shields, and his brother Nate prepare for their bouts.  After toying with the idea of retiring following the Condit fight, Diaz again tested positive for a Marijuana. He was summarily suspended from competition until February of 2013.  Once eligible, he will immediately become an instant contender for the title again. With St Pierre v Condit scheduled to happen in November the winner of that fight should be ready to go again around the time Diaz returns to action. Weather or not he deserves an immediate shot is debatable, however in a division that has no shortage of talent, Diaz should have no problem booking an exciting return fight.


Shop the Official UFC Store

 

Overeem looks to get conditional license.

Posted: August 11, 2012 in Combat Sports, UFC
1

This is becoming a fucking joke. Finally Keith Kizer does something I completely

agree with, when he says Overeem has no chance of getting license early. The sport is young, and on the cusp of breaking through the world dominated by the “Big 3”, but this is the type of incident that drives the average fan away. Mr. Overeem needs to take his medicine(without testosterone), and start playing the humble athlete.
Also, I spoke to an orthopedic surgeon recently and asked him about anti-inflammatory medication that is combined with testosterone. He said he had never heard of such a thing! He also stated that if the mix was made by the doctor, non disclosure of the testosterone could result in the doctor loosing his license.

There is no doubt Alistair Overeem is a great fighter, and there is no doubt he is a legitimate contender, however it is my contention that no athlete is bigger than the sport, by attempting to fight early, it seem Mr Overeem thinks differently.

UFC 150 Guillard v Cerrone

Posted: August 10, 2012 in Combat Sports, UFC
2

 

This one has the makings of being a great entertaining fight. Both guys are incredibly diverse strikers, with Cerrone  maintaining a slight advantage on the feet, while also possessing a more versatile submission game.  Greg Jackson will be cornering Donald Cerrone, since Guillard is now training with the Blackzillians.

This fight could be explosive, so make sure not to blink!

Dana White’s VLOG UFC on FOX

Posted: August 8, 2012 in Combat Sports, UFC
1

UFC 144 Fight Predictions and Analysis part 1 and Dana Whites Video Blog!

Posted: February 22, 2012 in Combat Sports, UFC
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
2

UFC 144 Fight card Analysis Part 1

by Jonathan M. King

Yoshihiro Akiyama versus Jake Shields

Jake Shields is looking to break out of the fighting and life doldrums. Following his title loss to St. Pierre, Shields lost his father and manager Jack suddenly at the age of 67. Jack Shields was a great mentor and friend to several of the Cesar Gracie fighters, and his loss is still being felt. After the death of his father, Shields then saw his contenders position smashed away by Jake Ellenberger knees. In just 53 seconds, Shields for the first time lost consecutive fights. He will be looking to rebound against Yoshihiro Akiyama who is coming down in weight, following his 3 consecutive losses at the 185 lbs weight class. Although on the later end of his career “SexyYama” is still a dangerous striker. Prediction: Shields submission rd 1

Yushin Okami versus Tim Boetsch

Yushin Okami posesses that rare combination of pedigree, performance, and longevity in MMA, he earned his ass whooping at the hand of Ander son Silva. Tim Boetsch has been grinding out wins, by his whole career. Grappling himself either into a decision win, or submission victory in 5 of his last 6 wins. In his last 16 fights Yushin Okami has lost to Jake Shields, Anderson Silva, and Chael Sonnen, and Rich Franklin; with the Silva fight being the only one that ended early. With his history of fighting on big stages, Prediction: Okami via Decision

Hatsu Hioki versus Bart Palaszewski

After winning in his octagon debut against George Roop, Hatsu Hioki is looking to continue his rise to the top of the division. This time Hioki will stand toe to toe with Bart Palazewski. Palazewski is coming off an impressive octagon debut of his own, seeing him knock out UFC vet Tyson Griffin in 2:45. This bought is another classic showdown between striker and submission fighter, however the submission fighter (Hioki) has never been knocked out! Prediction: Hioki via submission rd 2

Anthony Pettis versus Joe Lauzon

First of all, this is my prediction for fight of the night. With 21 wins in his MMA career, Joe Lauzon seems to always be the underdog. His last fight against Melvin Guillard was meant to be a launching point for Guillard’s title shot. However, 47 seconds into round 1, Lauzon dropped and choked out those fiery title hopes. Anthony Pettis has fought and beat just about everyone he has been in front of, including the man challenging for the division title, Benson Henderson. Prediction: Pettis via decision

 


Carlos Condit Evades Nick Diaz to Earn the Interim Title!

Posted: February 6, 2012 in Combat Sports, UFC
2

 

UFC 142 was supposed to create clarity, with regards to the welterweight division. Nick Diaz and Carlos Condit were set to fight for the Interim Welterweight Title, with the winner set to unify the belt when George St.Pierre returned from knee surgery.

Now, The fight is over, Carlos Condit is the Interim Title holder, Nick Diaz says he is retiring, and George St.Pierre re injured his knee during the fight decision(jumping out of his seat)!

The fight was extremelly close throughout. For the better part of 5 rounds Nick Diaz stalked and backed down the leg-kicking Condit. Nick Diaz secured the only take-down, late in the final frame, as he struggled to sink in a submission before time expired. Once again, the  fighters left the fights decision to the judges, and once again the judges failed to perform.

The fact that Condit won, is not the issue. In a fight as close as that was, anyone can be on the wrong side of a one point decision.The issue was two judges seeing the fight as 49-47 for a fighter who spent the entire night backpedaling. Oscar de la Hoya lost a controversial decision because he was perceived to be running, to secure his lead on points. Condit was doing the exact same thing, sometimes even running as he backed against the cage. Apparently those judges were not involved with overseeing this fight.

It has become commonplace to hear Dana White speak of the perils of leaving the fight to the judges. However in the professional fight world, that is unacceptable as a solution. The judging, and the refereeing has been extremely inconsistent. Last nights fights magnify this point.  The Diaz v Condit fight was just the latest example of judges who mystified most spectators.

The UFC is not in control of the officiating, or the judging. These are issues that are under the Athletic Commissions umbrella. However, with all the money the UFC is putting into these commissions pockets, you would think there complaints might carry some weight. There will always be room for mistakes, and no judge or referee is perfect, but there is ways to fix the problems.

Miesha Tate Strikeforce Champion Interview with The Clinch Report

Posted: February 5, 2012 in Combat Sports, UFC
Tags: , ,
1

Interviewed by: Jonathan M. King

When you are on top, everyone tries to knock you down. The strap around your waist carries with it a target on your back. Trash talking, and subtle verbal jabs are ways for some fighters to get recognition. Miesha “Take-Down” Tate would rather just keep winning.  Recently Tate discussed her MMA career path, and future in this sport with The Clinch Report.

Originally from Tacoma Washinton, Tate began her path to MMA as a wrestler! Soon after winning national trials for submission wrestling,, Tate joined an MMA club run by fellow fighter star Bryan Caraway. Not only is Caraway Tate’s trainer, and inpiration, he is also her boyfriend.  Tate is quick to make sure Caraway gets the credit for her fighting pedigree. “Bryan Caraway has literally coached me to my world title, he’s my rock! ” Tate said.  “I see myself as a  female version of him(Caraway)” Tate said. “He’s very talented so I say it with pride!”

Currently the holder of the Strikeforce’s Bantamweight Title, Tate is also considered the #2 pound-for-pound Female fighter in the world. With her rise through the ranks, the competition has been getting tougher. Recently Tate signed to defend her belt against Ronda Rousey, who has also climbed the ranks very quickly. Once this fight was signed, the hype machine began. Twitter wars ensued, debating superficial topics that had little or nothing to do with fighting. As far as Tate is concerned, the fight is all that matters, and it is not a joking matter.. “Well for her it might be all fun and games but for me I take this sport a little more seriously!” Tate said. ” I think she will too after she’s done eating my homemade elbow macaroni!”

In the past, the wrestling based Tate “usually only used (striking) to set up a takedown, not necessarily to knock someone out.” This fight could be different though, as Tate reflects, “but that may change this fight!” Working with Team Yakima MMA primarily, Tate has impressed her handlers with her improved striking ability. With each fight her skills improve, and Tate is the type of fighter who likes to stay busy. Once she defeats Rousey and defends her belt, Tate would like to avenge her loss to Sarah Kaufman (who some feel deserved the shot at Tate more than Rousey did!). “Sarah Kaufman is next on my radar! I lost a close fight to her a few years back and now I have the belt that she once had, my goal is to avenge my loss to her!” Tate said. However, Tate realizes she has work to do first. “First things first I have to defend my belt against Ronda Rousey March 3rd!”

Miesha Tate’s rise to the Championship is not a surprise. The way Tate approcahes her training is similar to those of her role models.  Besides her training Guru  Caraway Tate also looks up to other fighters as well.  “Georges St. Pierre stays calm and respectful I admire that. I also like Jake Ellenburger stylistically and as a person too!” Tate said. Although she looks up to sevral fighters, Tate would “love the opportunity to train w GSP because I look up to him especially, he follows his gameplans to a T.”

On March 3rd, Tate will defend her title against Ronda Rousey, as the headline fight. As a MMA enthusiast, and part time practitioner, I am finally excited for the Woman’s division. Its almost time, to refer to them as simply “fighters”, not “Woman fighters”. With the skills that Miesha Tate, Sarah Kaufman, Megumi Fujii, Ronda Rousey, and maybe the return of Gina Carrano, there is no shortage of exciting talent. Hopefully, these wonderful fighters inspire more woman to join the ranks of MMA. One thing is certain, all MMA fans (And the UFC brass) need to take notice, these ladies are GOOD, and they belong here!

Nick Diaz v Carlos Condit Analysis UFC 143 Title Fight!

Posted: January 30, 2012 in UFC
Tags: , , , , ,
4

Nick Diaz versus Carlos Condit for the interim Welterweight Title,  is almost here. Waiting, and watching is Georges St. Pierre as he rehabs following successful ACL surgery. Once healed, St Pierre will fight the winner of Saturday’s bout to unify the UFC welterweight title, and create the undisputed champion of the 170lbs division.

Carlos Condit, has looked dominate lately, winning his last four fights. Three of which were knockouts of highly ranked fighters (Dan Hardy, Rory MacDonald, Dong Hyun Kim). Condit possesses a unique combination of skills, coupled with a strong jaw. Comfortable on his feet, or on the mat Condit’s ferocious striking can end the fight instantly, and from any position. “The Natural Born Killer”, trains with Greg Jackson in New Mexico, where he has learned the art of defense, counter striking, and fighting a patient smart fight.  His wrestling is superb, and his power translates congruently with stamina. In other words, he can knock you out in the 1st round, or the the last.

Nick Diaz evokes many emotions from fight fans.  Popularity, was never the goal for the Stockton, California native. Nick Diaz only cares about one thing, winning big fights. The last time we saw Diaz, he thoroughly pounded and out classed a very tough BJ Penn. The win was not a surprise to some, as Diaz is naturally the larger fighter, however the beating he dished out was one BJ Penn has never tasted. Diaz absorbed Penn’s best shots, and used his stamina and boxing skills to just out strike the Hawaiian Legend. Possessing great boxing skills, and a world class jujitsu game, Diaz is one of the most well-rounded fighters in any division.

Analysis:

Both fighters are not afraid to stand fight. The stand-up battle presents a classic style contrast with Condit’s Muay Thai  against Diaz’s precision boxing, and counter punching style. The ground battle offers a equally interesting contrast with Condit’s wrestling against Diaz’s jujitsu. On paper the fight is virtually even. Both fighters are in their prime, and equally hungry to wear the belt.

This is a fight that either corner, could easily win. This fight could be a back and forth 5 round war that will require changing strategy and game-planning. Both Cesar Gracie(Diaz) and Greg Jackson(Condit) will be very vocal in between rounds, instructing on the fly, in order to inspire adaptability.

Prediction:

If Nick Diaz can utilize his boxing, and force Carlos to shoot, he should have the advantage.  Diaz jujitsu is at its best when used as a counter attack to a shoot. His triangles, gogoplatas, and kimuras are extremely strong and can be locked in instantly from many positions.  The first few rounds of this fight will be spent primarily standing, with Diaz maintaining the advantage. Forcing Condit to be overly aggresive, trying to take the fight to the ground. Once there, the fight will end with him tapping, to a submission.

Outcome: Nick Diaz rd 4 submission

UFC on FX Fight Prediction and Analysis

Posted: January 19, 2012 in Combat Sports, UFC
Tags: , , , , , , , ,
0

Fight Predictions For UFC on FX

Pat Barry (6-4 MMA) vs. Christian Morecraft (7-2 MMA)

Analysis: Both fighters need to perform to keep their jobs. Morecraft will try to utilize his wrestling skills to take advantage of Barry’s known weakness. However, Barry has been working with Brock Lesnar, and Cole Konrad on specifically his wrestling weakness. He will look to keep the fight standing, and look for one of his K-1 knockouts.

Prediction: Barry 2nd rd TKO

Mike Easton (11-1 MMA) vs. Jared Papazian (14-6-1 NC MMA)

Analysis: Papazian is a champion, and has been in a few memorable fights, however this is his first foray in the octagon.  Easton, is a BJJ black belt, who trains with Dominick Cruz regularly on his stand up. He is coming off his debut victory at UFC Versus 6, and will look to welcome the new kid to the block with a quick loss.

Prediction: Easton Dec

Duane Ludwig (29-11 MMA)vs. Josh Neer (32-10-1 MMA)

Analysis: This is going to be the fight of the night. Both fighters are extremely seasoned and ready to make divisional statements. Ludwig, is known for being the holder of the unofficial fastest knockout in history. Neer is known for being equally deadly on his feet or on the ground. It would suit Ludwig to keep the fight standing, where he may possess a slight advantage. Neer will have to survive the big shots, to get inside and take this fight to the ground.

Prediction: Ludwig Dec

Jim Miller (20-3 MMA) vs. Melvin Guillard (40-10-3 MMA)

Analysis: Nothing motivates a fighter more, than losing his status as a contender with derailing loss. Both of these fighters are in that position. An impressive win would reignite the momentum for either one of these fighters, while the loser would certainly move further down the rankings. Jim Miller is a extremely well rounded fighter, his grappling is world class. Guillard is one of the divisions most athletic fighters with explosive striking. His glaring weakness is his suspect ground game. His strikes will take a toll on a opponent with a strong chin, but eventually a savvy  wrestler will penetrate that barrage, enabling the shot. Miller has an exceptional chin, if he can withstand the initial attack he should be able to get the fight to the mat.

Prediction: Miller submission rd 2

Older Entries
Newer Entries