King of The Cage set to put on another talent packed card with three title fights. Also numerous contender spots are on the line. Once again King of The Cage President Terry Trebilcock is responsible for producing an exciting card of fights, just in time to satisfy your MMA Christmas/Chanukah wish list!
December 20th 2012
San Manuel Casino
Highland. CA
FIGHT CARD:
Josh Ramage (1-4 MMA) vs Robert Gleckman (Debut) Kenny Tenorio (0-10 MMA) vs Frank Park (2-4 MMA) Roberto Vargas (12-2 MMA) vs Musa Toliver (9-7 MMA) Johnny Cisneros (7-0 MMA) vs Joshua Aveles (9-8 MMA) Justin Robbins (13-13 MMA) vs Marvin Garcia (9-2 MMA) Featherweight Title Bout Sam Liera (7-3 MMA) vs David Gomez (14-4 MMA)* Welterweight Ttitle Bout Trevor Prangley (26-9 MMA) vs Tony Lopez (32-9 MMA)* Light Heavyweight Title Bout
Pablo Garza was able to withstand some vicious Mark Hominick flurries early, and was able to establish his jab frustrating Hominick into lunging assaults. Off balance Garza was able to take Hominick to the ground in the second and third rounds. Once in position continuously landed the more significant strikes, although Hominick did provide great resistance.
Winner: PABLO GARZA (29-27, 30-26, 29-28)
MARK BOCEK VS. RAFAEL dOS ANJOS
Originally set to be on the preliminary card, this fight was moved up to replace the loss of the Nick Ring v Costantinos Philippou, bout was scrapped after Ring fell ill and was unable to pass pre-fight medical exams. Bocek stated that he would use his superior take-downs to control Dos Anjos, however the exact opposite is what occurred. Dos Anjos systematically broke down Mark Bocek with excellent wrestling, and ground and pound. Dos Anjos never lost control of the fight cruising to a unanimous decision.
Winner: Rafael dos Anjos via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
TOM LAWLOR VS. FRANCIS CARMONT
Francis Carmont was able to withstand a relentless grappling attack of Tom Lawlor, by utilizing effective range-establishing strikes, and excellent wrestling defense. Lawlor was able to control Carmont for most of the fight, consistently pressuring the big middleweight up against the fence. Carmont was able to survive two guillotine attempts that appeared to be locked in tight towards the end of the first and second rounds. Very close fight. When the decision was read for the hometown favorite, the crowd began to boo, obviously thinking that Lawlor had won the fight.
Winner: Francis Carmont via Split Decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
JOHNY HENDRIKS VS. MARTIN KAMPMANN (#1 Contender spot on the line)
After a few seconds of pawing and feeling each other out, Hendriks led with a right hook that was followed immediately by his notorious left hand. Kampman was out instantly, falling backwards Hendriks followed with a vicious shot on the ground that was hardly necessary. The entire bout lasted only .46 seconds, as Johny Hendriks cemented his position as the #1 contender in the Welterweight division.
Winner: John Hendriks via Knockout (0:46) Rd 1
GEORGES ST. PIERRE VS. CARLOS CONDIT (Welterweight Title Unification Bout)
In one of the most memorable matches in UFC history, Georges St. Pierre was able to utilize his superior wrestling skills to ground the versatile attack of Carlos Condit. Even though Condit was on his back for most of the fight, he was able to give St. Pierre all he could handle. Condit used effective striking from the bottom to soften up the champion. In the third frame Condit ducked under a hook, angled out and landed a kick to the head of the champion that sent him to the canvas. Valiantly Condit tried to finish the fight with tactical ground and pound striking, however St.Pierre was able to recover, reestablish position, and then spent the remainder of the round in control on top. The rest of the fight went pretty much the same way. George St. Pierre has now become the most dominate Welterweight Champion in UFC history. (Moving ahead of Matt Hughes in title fight victories)
Winner: Georges St. Pierre via Unanimous Decision (49-46, 50-45, 50-45)
Analysis: Both fighters are looking to stake a claim to the next welterweight title shot with a win on Saturday. Martin Kampmann is one of the purest strikers in the division, he is able to use superior footwork to keep his opponent of balance. Johny Hendricks, may have the hardest left hand, in the weight class, with wins over Jon Fitch and Josh Koscheck, Hendricks has the pedigree, and ability to be a champion!
Prediction: Hendricks via 2rd rd TKO
Middleweight (185lbs)
Tom Lawlor 7-4-0
vs
Francis Carmont 19-7-0
Analysis: Tom Lawlor recently rebounded from his loss to title hopeful Chris Weidman with a impressive victory over Jason Macdonald that only took .50 seconds. Francis Carmont is riding a 8 fight win streak. A training partner of Georges St. Pierre, Carmont is looking to establish himself as one of the divisions rising stars!
Prediction: Carmont via submission rd 2
Middleweight (185lbs)
Costantinos Philippou 11-2-0
vs
Nick Ring 13-1-0
Analysis: This fight is an early candidate for fight of the night! Both fighters have established themselves as grinders, having won most of there fights by decision. Ring possesses a great all around game, with excellent wrestling and submissions skills. Philippou has improved with every fight since his loss to Nick Catone by decision. A member of the Serra/Longo fight team, Phillipou is also no stranger to the submission game, although his strength is striking.
Prediction: Nick Ring via decision
Featherweight (145lbs)
Pablo Garza 11-3-0
vs
Mark Hominick 20-11-0
In wrestling one of the most popular matches is the “Loser Leaves Town” scenario. Although wrestling is fake, this scenario is very real for both of these fighters. Both are coming off of losses, and are on the verge of being cut from the ever expanding UFC roster. Hominick was once considered one of the best in the division. A student of the late great Sean Tompkins, Hominick possesses excellent striking skills, and a pretty solid all around game. Pablo Garza started his career in the UFC impressively winning both of his first two fights. Since then he has dropped two connective fights to Dennis Bermudez and Dustin Poirer. Garza’s back is against the wall,
Prediction: Hominick via 2nd rd TKO
UFC Welterweight Championship
Georges St. Pierre 22-2-0
vs
Carlos Condit 28-5-0
Coming off almost a 600 day layoff from his last fight finally GSP is back in the mix. One of the best pound for pound fighters GSP possesses one of the most well rounded games in all of MMA. He can stand and bang, wrestle, box, and he can put you to sleep! One of the most dominate champions in all of Combat sports, GSP is running from a knee injury headlong into a waiting Carlos Condit. His win over Nick Diaz proved Carlos Condit is a legitimate Champion. His Muay Thai, and kick boxing is vicious. And he has been training non stop for this fight, since before GSP had surgery! Both fighters are healthy, and in prime condition. This should be a great fight!
SEPTEMBER 22, 2012 / AIR CANADA CENTRE, TORONTO, ONTARIO, CANADA
The fight card for this event hardly resembles its original incarnation. Injuries have left an indelible mark, and once agian officaials were
Charles Oliveira (16-2 MMA, 4-2-1 NC UFC) vs. Cub Swanson (17-5 MMA, 2-1 UFC))
In the main cards first bout, two dynamic strikers are put face to face to clear up the featherweight division. Since moving too the division Oliviera is 2- 0, with both wins coming via impressive submission. WEC vet Cub Swanson is looking to build off of recent wins over Ricardo Lamas, and Ross Pearson. Swanson also possesses one of the most dangerous guillotine chokes in all of MMA.
Predictions: Oliviera via late first round submission. In a very exciting 4 minute fight.
Matt Hamill (10-4 MMA, 9-4 UFC) vs. Roger Hollett (13-3 MMA, UFC DEBUT)
Matt ‘The Hammer’ Hamill is returning after a brief, and seemingly early retirement from the sport. Re invigorated and excited to be back, ‘The Hammer’ looks to spoil the long awaited UFC debut of Roger Hollett. Hollet the owner of a 5 fight win streak will have to avoid the aggressive wrestling of the seasoned Hamill. He may be able to secure a submission from the bottom, although he would be the first to do so, as Hamill has never tapped in his MMA career.
Predictions: Matt Hamill via 2nd rd TKO
Michael Bisping (22-4 MMA, 12-4 UFC) vs. Brian Stann (12-4 MMA, 6-3 UFC)
This fight has ‘Fight of The Night’ potential. Both fighters possess incredible striking power, with Bisping maintaining an edge on technique, while Stann holds the power advantage. Stann may have an edge in the wrestling department, however Bisping’s ground game is massively improved and incredible under rated. Both fighters are looking to stake their claim to contender status, so that should add to the excitement. The fight should be a great stand up war that displays a power vs technique.
Prediction: Michael Bisping via unanimous decision
Joseph Benavidez (16-2 MMA, 2-0 UFC)vs. Demetrious Johnson (15-2-1 MMA, 3-1-1 UFC) -For Inaugural UFC Flyweight Title
This is another candidate for ‘Fight of The Night’. Both fighters are have great cardio conditioning, so 5 rounds is not an issue for either fighter. Johnson has gone the distance with Dominick Cruz and Ian McCall recently. Benavidez has only lost twice in his career, both losses coming at the hands of Dominick Cruz. Each fighter possess great wrestling and grappling skills, however Benavidez will have a distinct power advantage. This fight may be won in the corners between rounds, with adjustment being the key to victory. Both fighters have been on the verge of title contention for a long time, and finally one will emerge a champion.
Prediction: Joseph Benavidez via unanimous decision
Champ Jon Jones (16-1 MMA, 11-1 UFC) vs. Vitor Belfort (21-9 MMA, 10-5 UFC)- Light Heavyweight Championship Bout
This fight is the most talked about UFC contest in years, for all the wrong reasons. Injuries forced the UFC’s hand and after losing Dan Henderson to a torn knee, the UFC was forced to cancel its first event UFC 151. Many consider this to be a walkover for Jon Jones, being that Belfort is not even a ranked divisional foe (normally Belfort fights at 185lbs, although he has fought in all of the heavy divisions). Jones who has systematically destroyed everyone put in front of him, should be able to do the same against the much smaller Belfort. However, Vitor Belfort is no slouch, and although he may be past his prime he is still a very explosive striker. If Jon Jones gets sloppy, he could very easily get caught in a ‘Phenom’ rush that has knocked out a whose who of MMA elite.
Prediction: Jon Jones via TKO(referee stoppage) rd 2.
With the recent rash of injuries in the UFC, many intriguing match-ups have arisen only to disappear. Jon Jones (16-1 MMA, 10-1 UFC) the current light heavy weight champion of the world was offered his title shot because of an injury. When Rashad Evans (17-2-1 MMA, 15-2-1 UFC) was unable to compete against Maurcio ‘Shogun’ Rua (21-6 MMA, 5-4 UFC) because of an injury, Jones accepted the title shot and went on to dominate Rua becoming the promotions youngest UFC champion in history. Since then other opportunities have been offered, some accepted, some refused, but none were as successful as Jones.
Recently with injuries to both Georges St Pierre (22-2 MMA, 17-2 UFC) and Dominick Cruz (19-1 MMA, 2-0 UFC) and as in the past, the UFC decided to implement ‘Interim’ champions. Currently both Carlos Condit (28-5 MMA, 6-1 UFC), and Renan Berao (29-1 MMA, 4-0 UFC) hold these titles in the welterweight and bantamweight division respectively. Both fighters are obligated to unify their titles once St. Pierre and Cruz are healthy enough to compete again.
The past month has been especially rough with both title contenders and title holders being injured. After Dan Henderson (29-8 MMA, 8-2 UFC) injured his knee and was unable to fight Jon Jones several people had the opportunity to rise to the occasion, only no one did. Fighters only have a small window of time before these injuries take their toll. The cliche ‘better to have tried and failed, then to have never tried at all.” seems to be apropos.
As the UFC roster expands more contenders will surely emerge. Hungry young fighters that would relish the opportunity to reach the limelight are moving up the ranks. Fighters such as Chris Weidman, (9-0 MMA, 5-0 UFC) Glover Texiera (18-2 MMA, 1-0 UFC), Steven ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson (6-1 MMA , 1-1 UFC), and Alexander Gustafsson (14-1 MMA, 7-1 UFC) are certainly going to be looking for the opportunities that Lyoto Machida (18-3 MMA, 10-3 UFC) willing let go. Now that Machida is set to face Henderson, it seems obvious that title shots disappear quicker and easier than they are offered.
Only a small percentage of gladiators lived long enough too fight in Rome. However every single one hoped too not only live, but those that embraced this barbaric path dreamed of fighting on the grandest of all stages the Roman Colosseum. Since then nations have risen and fallen, with that gladiator code still festering in the few who continued the fighting spirit.
Today the closest thing we have to the Gladiator is the mixed martial artist, and the UFC is the only stage as grand or at least comparable too the Colosseum. Like the warriors before Mike Bruno (11-4 MMA) and Vagner Rocha (7-3 MMA 1-2 UFC) have been in each others company previously, coming through the ranks. However with a 3 fight stint in the UFC only Rocha has tasted the nectar of the UFC gods, a thirst he longs for still, and one he shares with Bruno
Although it is a normal scenario for Howard Davis’s Fight Time Promotions to feature a young promising fighter, against a UFC vet trying to get back to the show. This fight is anything but ordinary. Bad blood fueled by a team split, jealousy, and smack talk has led too a genuine feeling of disgust shared by both fighters. “When Vagner made it to the UFC, I was extremely jealous, and being young I made the mistake of running my mouth” Bruno said. Before the Brookins fight, Mike Bruno was heard on the Rudolfo Roman Show begging Brookins “To smash” his former teammate.
A salvo that Rocha believes was from a jealous ex-teammate. “I have openly apologized, because I was in a bad spot, but he apparently he is interested,” Bruno said. Animosity between opponents is common, however the war of words between the two has at times, become quite volatile. Recently Rocha called out Bruno for being a jealous boring fighter, that lacked any quality finishing skills. With Rocha becoming more aggressive, the war of words was back on and has become increasingly personal. “I was willing to let it go, and just be professional, but either way the outcome will be the same, with me smashing him,” Bruno said, seemingly content to let his performance speak for itself.
The match up of styles adds to the intrigue of this bout. Rocha the savvy Brazilian Ju Jitsu veteran, is slick on the ground and possesses lethal submission skills from any position. “I know he is world class on the ground, he used to train at Top Team”, Bruno said. “He also has a very tough chin”, said Bruno referring to Rocha’s UFC fight with title contender Donald ‘Cowboy’ Cerrone, who peppered Rocha for three rounds, before winning a unanimous decision. With his world class wrestling pedigree the younger stronger Bruno is not afraid to enter the Brazilians world. “I have no problem putting my wrestling against his jujitsu.” Bruno said.
As the promotion stalwart, Bruno has fought victoriously 4 times in Fight Time, and in the main event 3 times. Training daily with American Top Team has enabled Bruno to grow tremendously with MMA veterans such as: Mike Brown, Cole Miller, Hector Lombard, Stefane Dias (strength coach), Thiago Alves. His arsenal continues to improve.
At the helm of this project is Mike’s older brother and UFC veteran Steve ‘Hollywood’ Bruno, who also recently began fighting with the promotion. As a dynamic striker Steve has chiseled away at his younger brother, turning a power wrestler, into a well round mixed martial artist capable and comfortable wherever the fight may go. “Steve has been an amazing mentor for me, not only as my brother, but he has a very high MMA I.Q., he knows the business inside out,” Bruno said. With both Bruno’s scheduled to compete on this card, its sure to be a family affair.
Fight Analysis: Besides his wrestling and improved striking skills, Mike Bruno is freakishly strong at 155 lbs. He is notorious for is Rampage-esque slams, and his relentless ground-and-pound attack. Once in a dominant position, Bruno’s hands drop like pile-drivers, at lighting speed. His elbows are lacerating, and they seem to finish beneath his opponents. Vagner Rocha is very experienced and on paper his jujitsu is more refined. He will look to capitalize on a mistake, and try to catch an over aggressive Bruno. Although a very close match-up on paper, it seems Bruno has several advantages, with Rocha only holding one.
Prediction: Mike Bruno via TKO rd 2. I cannot see Rocha stopping Bruno’s relentless power doubles, or his ground and pound.
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!
In the world of Mixed Martial Arts, only a handful of gyms have consistently maintained a stable of champion fighters. Ricardo Liborio’s American Top Team since its inception has been one of the best schools in MMA. known for producing champions, the roster of fighters is littered with strap-holders and contenders in all organizations , and at every weight class. It must be something in the air in Coconut Creek Florida, that creates mixed martial arts legends. This environment directed by Liborio, and Marcus “Conan” Silveira, enables young talented fighters to be baptized by fire against savy veterans. Lightweight Mike Bruno, is currently one these fighters earning his degree daily.
Born in Bensonhurst Brooklyn’s rough streets, Bruno’s family moved to Boca Raton Florida following his father’s retirement from the NYPD. As a precocious youngster, like most younger brothers toughness was instilled early on. Watching professional wrestling inspired Bruno to use this desire competitively. As a high school wrestler, the competitive drive was fueled by inspiration . ” As a family we ordered UFC 3 on pay per view”, Bruno said. Following that event Mike and his older brother Steve just started “Doing all of the moves we saw on pay per view. Ken Shamrock and Marco Ruas where my favorites during the mid 90s when I started watching. Then I fell in love with Frank Shamrock, Kevin Randleman and Kazushi Sakuraba.” Bruno said.
His biggest influence in the sport, is his brother Steve. Steve Bruno began fighting as a professional in 2000. The following year the elder Bruno was fighting in the UFC. While watching his older brother fight, Mike thought, “I want to do this and I can do this , that was at age 15.” Bruno said. With his interest growing, High School wrestling gave Mike the venue to set his foundation. Distractions arose, inspiration faded, and Bruno finished his junior year with a humdrum 20-10 record. His senior year was much different. “Watching a video called ‘The Competitor Supreme’ by Dan Gable is where I developed the drive from to become a top-level competitor.” Bruno said. “I saw it while I was in training for my senior year of wrestling in high school.” The results were remarkable. That year Bruno wrestled his way to a dominating mark of 35-3, setting the school record.
With his high school days coming to an end, at 17 years old, Bruno decided that he was going to join American Top Team. However, like anyone else he had to pay his dues first. ” I met Ricardo Liborio and told him I want to be a pro fighter, Bruno said. “He told me to come to the regular classes that the paying customers go too”. At American Top Team your pedigree may get you recognized, but your talent and work ethic is what earns your spot as a professional fighter. For Bruno, that did not take very long at all. “I took one regular class and submitted everyone, then Mr. Liborio told me that I could join the pro team.”
Since 2004, the younger Bruno has amassed a 10-4 MMA record. He has fought all over the world, and with each performance his style and power continue to evolve. Currently signed to Fight Time Promotions in Florida, Mike is looking forward to taking the next step. “I learn something everyday!” Bruno said. “Working with pioneers such as Conan, and Liborio is an amazing feeling.” Being surrounded by some of the best fighters in the world helps a little too!
Bruno at times is still star struck by the amazing roster of fighters he trains with everyday. Besides his brother Steve, Mike trains regularly with an all-star cast of MMA royalty. With fighters such as Thiago Alves, Cole Miller, Hector Lombard, Gleison Tibau, Micah Miller, Mike Brown, and Brad Pickett testing him daily Bruno is now looking forward to take his place on the larger stages. “I see myself next year in Bellator or Strikeforce challengers.” Bruno said. No longer a rookie to the sport, the years have given way to a more mature fighter. “You grow up, mature and learn from your mistakes.” Bruno said. “I’m ready.”
With a fight already scheduled in February of 2012, Mike Bruno is ready to start the year off with another win. His trademark wrestling-infused ground and pound, always offers a glimpse into his dominant grappling days. However, the more mature fighter has added an updated striking game to compliment his already potent ground game. He will look to put those skills on display early on in 2012. “I am booked for Feb 17th and then again in April .” Bruno said.
In the fight game there are very few certainties. The revolving door of relevance, mirrors the short window of opportunity. There are no guarantees. The only things you can rely on are god given talent, ever evolving skills, and the team you surround yourself with. Fighting is not a team sport, but training to fight is! You can only be as good as those around you. With the cast surrounding Mike Bruno, and the skill he has displayed thus far, it would be hard to bet against him!
John Fitch (26-3-1 MMA) v. Johnny Hendricks (11-1 MMA)
Its been almost a year since John Fitch and BJ Penn fought to a draw in February 2012. Since then Fitch has undergone surgery, and suffered a few setbacks trying to get back into the octagon. His record however, should put all doubt aside. Fitch has notable wins over Thiago Alves, Mike Pierce, Paulo Thiago, Diego Sanchez, and many others. Basically John Fitch has beat everyone except the champion! His fights may be drawn out wrestling matches, that may not be as exciting as two guys standing and trading swollen faces, but his record and toughness silence all. Simply put, all John Fitch does is win!
Johnny Hendricks is looking to continue his rise in the 170lbs division with a solid performance against a very game John Fitch. Hendricks is a former wrestling champion, who has seen his striking improve with every fight. Since losing a decision to Rick Story in December 2010, Hendricks has put together consecutive victories over Mike Pierce, and TJ Waldburger.Hendricks has been recently training with his old collegiate wrestling team, preparing for the ground fighting Fitch.
Prediction: John Fitch via unanimous decision
Nathan Diaz (14-7 MMA) v. Donald Cerrone (17-3-1nc MMA)
This is a fight that should leave us all slack-jawed and hypnotized. Both fighters are virtually evenly matched in all areas of the game. Nathan Diaz has been moving out of his older brother (Nick)’s shadow since winning the Ultimate Fighter. With his latest and most impressive victory over Takinori Gomi, Diaz firmly planted his feet in the title mix for the 155lbs weight class. The Stockton California native is a cardio freak like his older brother, competing in triathlons, and xterra events to stay in pinnacle condition. His boxing skills, combined with Cesar Gracie inspired jujitsu make Nathan Diaz one of the most well-rounded fighters in any division.
Greg Jackson has produced some of the best fighters in MMA, Donald Cerrone certainly adds to that stable of greatness. ‘The Cowboy’ posses a great combination of striking, wrestling, and jujitsu. His latest win over Dennis Siver in dominating fashion pushed Cerrone back to the top of the contender list. Greg Jackson insists that Cerrone is full of tricks, that he plans to display against the very tough Diaz. Both fighters can strike, and grapple, this is going to be a shootout!
Prediction: Nathan Diaz via 2nd round submission
Brock Lesnar (5-2 MMA) v. Alistair Overeem (35-11-1 MMA)
Brock Lesnar is one of the largest and strongest men in the UFC. His wrestling pedigree and sheer size made him an instant contender in the division, simply because he was so massive. His athleticism for a man his size is almost unfathomable. At almost 300 pounds (by the time the fight starts) he shoots faster than most lightweight wrestlers. Lesnar’s critics are quick to point out his striking weakness. His technical striking may be lacking, but anyone he punches will certainly feel differently (ask Heath Herring and his broken orbital bone from a right cross). Every fighter he has faced, he has taken down. He will look to do the same against Overeem.
Dutch strikers usually have a glaring hole in their game, the Dutch are not known for their grappling prowess. Alistair Overeem is the exception to this rule. His record proves this as he has more wins by submission (19) then he does by TKO (14). His vicious legs, knees, and elbows have left a wake of defeated champions behind him. Currently he is the Dream, Strikeforce, and K-1 Heavyweight Champions, and since moving up in weight he has looked unbeatable! Overeem will look to avoid Lesnar’s take-downs by utilizing distance. Once inside, Lesnar had better be aware of Overeem’s tendency to use his patent guillotine choke.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira has always been one of the toughest men in the world of Mixed Martial Arts. Last night he improved on that legend. After being locked up in a kimura, by Frank Mir, Noguera rolled three times, instead of tapping, in order to find a way out of the hold. He was rewarded with a spiral fracture of the arm that will probably cause his retirement. Some times, tapping is the best options.”If your gonna be dumb, you gotta be tough”
Martin Kampmann 20-5-0
Johny Hendricks 13-1-0
Tom Lawlor 7-4-0
Francis Carmont 19-7-0
Costantinos Philippou 11-2-0
Nick Ring 13-1-0
Pablo Garza 11-3-0
Mark Hominick 20-11-0
Georges St. Pierre 22-2-0
Carlos Condit 28-5-0
THE CLINCH REPORT 